EPISODE # 2.17
TELEFÓNICA ARENA
MADRID, SPAIN
TUESDAY, AUGUST 16, 2011

A video package airs, recapping last week’s contract signing between PWA World Heavyweight Champion Jason Calysto and number one contender Vulture that made their Everlasting Epic VII championship showdown official. We also see a recap of Anthony Failla’s handicap match against SIN members Greg Tantalus and Markus Krieg, which resulted in Failla getting his ankle snapped in a chair by Tantalus, and his status for the Everlasting Epic Gauntlet Match against SIN being put in serious jeopardy.

As the video concludes, “Live Again” by Ours hits and the opening credits roll. From there, we are taken inside Telefónica Arena in Madrid, Spain, 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 just 25 days away from Everlasting Epic!

Buckingham: We sure are, and at this point, we have five HUGE matches announced for the show, and I’m sure more are on the way!

Troy: Indeed they are, but before that, let’s get serious for a moment. As you just saw, last week, Greg Tantalus and Markus Krieg did a serious number on Anthony Failla, pulling off what has become known in the locker room as the “SIN Special.” Tantalus trapped Failla’s ankle in a steel chair and stomped on it, putting Failla out of action for at least the short-term.

Buckingham: What we don’t know, however, is if the injury will extend all the way through Everlasting Epic, where Failla is set to team with Dan Crowley, Showtime Damon Savage, Hollywood Mike Griffin, and Chase Stone in a five-on-five Gauntlet Match against SIN members Greg Tantalus, the PWA International Champion John Wolfe, Markus Krieg, James Biamonte, and Chris Duval.

Troy: We are told, however, that we will hear from our creative director Justin Schenck later this evening, and the word is he has a major update on Failla’s condition and how it affects his EE7 status.

Buckingham: That’s an impressive team, Troy, but if Failla isn’t able to make it to EE, then they’re going to need to choose a replacement VERY carefully. There aren’t too many guys out there who can replace someone like Anthony Failla, and pretty much all of the contracted wrestlers that fit that bill are already booked for Everlasting Epic.

Troy: Certainly someone like Solomon, who now finds himself putting his very career on the line at Everlasting Epic against Evan Black in a Falls Count Anywhere match.

Buckingham: I’m not sure willingly putting your career on the line is the wisest move in the book, but I really don’t like Black’s chances when there are no rules and falls count anywhere.

Troy: He certainly has an uphill battle to climb, but we do have some news to report on that front. Solomon’s suspension has been lifted, and he will be in action later tonight against Jon Dulberg. Additionally, we’ve been told that Evan Black is in the building tonight, though he won’t be cleared to return to in-ring competition for another week, following the brutal powerbomb off the stage from Solomon at a live event two weeks ago. But based on the constant sneak attacks and the inability of the two men to coexist, Justin Schenck has ordered that Solomon and Black refrain from all physical contact until the bell rings at Everlasting Epic. And should they break this rule, their EE match will be cancelled and neither man will be booked to compete in London.

Buckingham: It’s going to be interesting, because these two want to tear each other apart, but if they can’t wait 25 days to do it, they will lose the opportunity to do it altogether, and will miss out on the biggest payday of the year.

Troy: In a match signed earlier this evening, we’re going to see the PWA World Heavyweight Champion Jason Calysto get a tune-up for his EE7 showdown with Vulture, when he battles SIN member and the PWA International Champion John Wolfe in a non-title bout.

Buckingham: Also, Dexter P. Wellington will finally get his hands on Saif al Abbad, as they go one-on-one for the first time on PWA television.

Troy: I might say it’s the other way around, but while we’re talking about the cruiserweight division, let’s also talk about Paul Epton vs. Fenix Clarke.

Buckingham: If Epton wins, Clarke and Emily Walker must leave Epton alone forever, but if Clarke wins, Epton must hire his ex-girlfriend Emily as his new manager. A lot at stake!

Troy: Plus, we’ll see Kemi Okoro and Keiko Ishida square off for the third time, after splitting their first two meetings. It’s the rubber match, tonight!

Buckingham: And Paul Dawkins and Renegade will square off with Synergy!

Troy: Indeed they will, but before we get to any of that, let’s get down to ringside for tonight’s opening contest, and it’s gonna be a doozy!

***

We cut to the squared circle, where ring announcer Lee Palmer waits inside, as “My Avenue” by Baton Rouge’s Lil’ Boosie Bad Azz, Lil’ Phat, and Lil’ Trill thumps through the speakers, and the crowd gets to their feet.

Palmer: Tonight’s opening contest is scheduled for one fall! Introducing first, representing The Hot Boy$, from Jacksonville, Florida, weighing 262 pounds, this… is… JAAAAGGGG-UAAARRRR!

The crowd meets the former PWA World and Tag Team Champion with massive cheers as he emerges from the curtain, flanked by his partner Romeo. As they approach the top of the stage, Jag throws his arms up, summoning the fierce flames from below before he marches towards the ring for a literal hot start to tonight’s broadcast.

Troy: The Hot Boy$ look focused tonight, and after how Jaguar was brutally assaulted by Texas Justice a few weeks back, you can tell he is champing at the bit to get his hands on Maddox Tate.

Buckingham: He might be, but let's also keep in mind that this is a singles match. Jaguar hasn't wrestled a singles match on PWA television since Everlasting Epic VI, a year and two days ago. I know he has tagged up on many live events over the months, but maybe things will be a little different without someone to tag tonight.

Troy: Perhaps, but Jaguar is a veteran and can get it done in any situation. My guess is he will be fine.

As Jaguar settles in the ring, "Mouth For War" by Pantera takes over, and thunderous boos rain down for the Tag Team Champions as they also emerge for Palmer's introduction.

Palmer: And his opponent, representing Texas Justice, from Odessa, Texas and weighing 245 pounds, he is one half of the PWA Tag Team Champions, MADDOXXXXXX TAAAATE!

Tate and partner Pitbull look ready for battle as they both march down the walkway to the ring. Referee Matt Hansen hops out of the ring, ordering Pitbull to stay on one side of the squared circle, just as he did with Romeo during his arrival.

Troy: It looks like Matt Hansen doesn't want any funny business from either Romeo or Pitbull out here tonight.

Buckingham: Maddox may end it so early that no funny business needs to occur.

Troy: Whatever you say, Randall.

Jaguar's eyes pierce a hole through Tate's as he slowly walks up the ring steps to climb into the ring. He hands his championship belt to Pitbull, who takes it as the bell sounds. Jaguar quickly approaches Tate in the opposing corner, but the wily Texan pokes his head through the ropes, forcing Hansen to back his opponent up. 

Buckingham: Smart move by Tate. He wants to work at his own pace. He'll get in there when he’s ready. 

JAGUAR VS. PWA TAG TEAM CHAMPION MADDOX TATE
Referee: Matt Hansen
Jaguar doesn't appear to be in a patient mood as he backs up a bit and then shoots right around Hansen, barreling Tate into the same corner with a hard shoulder to the gut! Two more follow, and Tate hits the mat rear-first, leaving him sitting in the corner as Jaguar pelts him with several taped right fists to the cranium and four hard kicks to the sternum and stomach. The crowd is alive with excitement as he tears into Tate until Hansen physically forces him out of the corner! 

Troy: Jaguar is enraged in there! 

Buckingham: What the hell is that, referee?! First, he allows Jag to run past him like he's Reggie White, and then lets him pound away on him like a thug in the corner! Ever heard of a five count, ref?! 

Troy: With all that has happened with these men during this season, I think Matt Hansen might be a little lenient here, but he had to get in there and break that up.

Jaguar is still steamed as he tries to get at Tate, but Pitbull shouts something at him. Jaguar turns his attention away for one moment, giving Tate the opening he needs to kick him hard in the right knee. Jag's leg buckles backwards, forcing him to the mat. 

Buckingham: Brilliant move by Tate there, kicking Jag in that right knee. That's the same one he had operated on earlier this season. 

Troy: It is, and since Texas Justice first caused that knee injury, Tate knew exactly where to exploit it. We'll see if that continues to be a problem for Jaguar as this match goes on.

Tate now reaches his feet and unleashes some fury, stomping and kicking away with reckless abandon. As Jaguar struggles to his feet, Tate hits the ropes and scores with a knee lift to the jaw that puts the former champion right back down on the canvas. He covers for one, two, and a kickout. 

Tate is not fazed by the escape, and tries to press his advantage by grabbing Jaguar's leg and tugging on it before slamming it to the mat and driving his own knee right down onto it! The Hot Boy yelps in pain as Tate grabs the leg by the shin to force pressure against the knee, keeping it wrapped around his own. With Jaguar in danger, the crowd cheers and chants to help bring him back into the fight. 

Troy: Tate is wrestling a smart match at this point. He knows Jaguar's damage is mainly done from a vertical base. The longer he keeps him grounded, the better it is for Texas Justice. 

Buckingham: Hard to hit a Carrjack lying on your back, and Jaguar is finding that out now. 

With the ropes too far away to reach, Jaguar opts to punch away on Tate to escape but it is futile, as more pressure is driven into the hold. Without another option, Jaguar opens his palm and drives his hand straight at Tate's face, causing his middle finger to connect with the eye patch that covers Tate's blinded right eye! 

Buckingham: Aw come on! How low is that?!

Jaguar: An eye for an eye, Randall! 

After causing the immediate breakage of the hold, Jaguar reaches his feet and goes right after Tate, nailing a right hand and following up with two more before Irish whipping the tough Texan to the ropes. Tate returns and is floored with a clothesline before popping up to get put down with another. Jaguar uses the ropes one more time, bouncing Tate off of the cables to flatten him with his patented leg lariat! 

Troy: Jag hit that leg lariat, and that right knee still looks sturdy, Randall!

Tate is dizzied as he hits the canvas, but Jaguar keeps the pressure going by lifting him up and dropping him down on his left knee with an inverted atomic drop. With Tate momentarily incapacitated, Jag goes for it all by lifting him up and connecting with Version 1.0, jolting him with his Mexican Stretch Buster in the middle of the ring! He covers and hooks the leg for one, two, and Tate kicks out! 

Troy: Whoa! I thought Jaguar had him right there! 

Buckingham: It shows the toughness of Texas Justice, Troy. That Version 1.0 is shock treatment to its core, and not many can kick out when it’s hit full force like that.

Tate is in bad shape as he is picked up and stumbles backwards into a corner. Jaguar refuses to relent, charging into the corner to connect with a big clothesline, but instead of letting Tate out of the corner, he mounts the middle ring ropes to begin assaulting his forehead with more taped rights. The crowd counts along as Jaguar reaches six shots, but the crafty Tate finds a way to regain the advantage by picking up Jag's legs and pushing up, dumping him over the top rope and to the arena floor, but the Floridian catches the ring steps with his back, tearing his shirt as he hits the ground with a massive thud! 

Troy: Wow! What a nasty fall that was! Jaguar has got to be hurt after that one!

Buckingham: See that? In one move, just one quick move, the tide has turned in this match. 

Tate tries to catch his breath inside the ring as Jaguar tries to do the same on the outside. Romeo rushes around the ring to his partner's aid, trying to get him back up and into the ring before Hansen counts to 10. On the opposite side, Tate motions to Pitbull to grab a chair from the ringside area, which he does before sliding it into the ring. 

Troy: Oh no, Tate has a chair in there now! You saw what he did with that car window. The man has nothing but evil intentions! 

As Jaguar rolls into the ring at the count of nine, Tate picks up the weapon and approaches his prey, but Hansen snatches it out of his hands! The official admonishes the champion as he tosses the chair out of the squared circle and to the floor. As Tate argues with the referee, pointing to his damaged eye, Hansen does not see Pitbull scoop up the chair and barge into the ring to crack Jaguar in the head with it! The Hot Boy hits the mat as Pitbull scurries out of the ring, with Romeo hot on his heels in pursuit, before tackling him on the aisle and connecting with several crushing right hands to the head! 

Troy: Romeo is taking a chunk out of Pitbull right now, but the real story is inside the ring. Jaguar got laid out with that chair!

Buckingham: And the referee didn't see or hear a thing! 

Tate ends his argument with the official to hurry along and make a cover, hooking the leg as Hansen counts one, two, thr-but Jaguar gets a shoulder up! 

Troy: No! Jaguar will not give in that easily! 

The crowd is on their feet as a shocked Tate yells at Hansen while he gets up. Tate slaps his hand across his palm three times, signifying he knew he had a three count, but Hansen shows him that the shoulder did rise before the count of three. Jaguar uses the ropes to pull himself up and grabs at Tate, but the Texan swings a wild right hand. It misses, and the momentum spins Tate around, allowing Jaguar to hoist him up and spike him to the canvas with the Carrjack! 

Troy: Carrjack! Jaguar has waited since March 15th to deliver that move, and he is a cover away from ending this match! 

A tired Jag rolls on top of Tate for one, two, thre-but now it is Tate who barely escapes, via his right leg barely landing on the bottom rope! 

Troy: Three! That wasn't a three count?!

Buckingham: No, pay attention, Troy! He got the leg on the bottom rope, just in time! 

Both Jaguar and Tate are exhausted, as Jag looks on in disbelief at Hansen holding up two fingers. Meanwhile, the battle rages on outside as Romeo violently whips Pitbull into the security wall. A group of PWA officials emerge from backstage to try and break things up a bit, diverting Hansen's attention. Inside the ring, Jaguar goes back to work, trying to lift Tate's 245-pound frame off the canvas to end the match. 

Before he can do so, Tate again uses a slight opening to take the advantage, hitting Jag low with a swift shot to the groin! The Hot Boy is nearly brought to his knees, and the wind has clearly escaped his sails as Tate struggles to reach his feet. With officials separating Romeo and Pitbull outside, Tate hooks Jaguar in a front facelock to lift him up for a suplex before snapping him down violently to complete the Backfire! Jaguar's torn shirt crumples to the mat first, with him still inside of it, as Tate hurries into a cover for one... two… three!

Troy: Dammit, no! 

Buckingham: Dammit, yes! I told you, Troy! Maddox Tate has done it! He has pinned Jaguar in the middle of the ring! 

Troy: Jaguar had Maddox Tate beat, and Tate took advantage of a low blow to win this match!

Buckingham: All I saw was the Backfire, one of the most devastating moves in the PWA, Troy. Backfire, one two three, and Maddox Tate is your winner!

"Mouth for War" replays and Tate grabs his championship belt, holding it high for all to see, as Jaguar writhes in pain on the canvas. As Romeo runs down and slides in the ring to tend to his partner, Tate makes his exit with Pitbull, leaving Jaguar lying once again.
WINNER VIA PINFALL AT 16:31 – MADDOX TATE

-- COMMERCIAL BREAK --

Back from break, the fans explode with cheers as “Map of the Problematique” by Muse is heard booming throughout the arena and Paul Epton makes his way ringside. The man is determined and focused, ready to vanquish the demons of his past. But he knows the road won't be easy as “Betrayal” by Lita Ford hits and Fenix Clarke and Emily Walker enter to vociferous boos.

Troy: Next up, ladies and gentlemen, we've got a match that could possibly lead to the end of an intense feud between Paul Epton and the pairing of Emily Walker and Fenix Clarke.

Buckingham: If Epton wins this match, Clarke and Walker will leave him alone from now on or risk suspension. However, if Clarke wins, Paul Epton must join the fold, so to speak, and allow Emily to manage him. And Troy, I’ve gotta say, I don’t even know why Epton would put up a fight in the first place. Why WOULDN’T he want Emily Walker to manage him?!

Troy: I would suggest that if he fled England to get away from this woman, he wouldn’t want her guiding his career now. But both wrestlers are in the ring and referee Dan Martin looks ready to start this match. The stakes are high in this one. Let's see what happens!

PAUL EPTON VS. FENIX CLARKE
Referee: Dan Martin
Both men seem calm and collected as they approach the center of the ring. They circle, sizing each other up, until Fenix Clarke attempts to take the first shot with a big right hand! Epton ducks the right and elbows Clarke in the side, following up with a stiff chop to the chest. Epton then Irish whips Clarke into the ropes, but Clarke ducks a big clothesline and takes down Epton with a flying forearm smash. Clarke then runs to the ropes, springboards, and delivers a leg drop across Epton’s chest.

Clarke waits for Epton to get up, then bounces off the ropes again, attempting a flying side kick, but Epton scouts it, matching Clarke with a dropkick that sends the flame-haired cruiserweight crashing to the mat! Epton presses the advantage, lifting Clarke up and hooking his head for a suplex, which he delivers before floating over for a pin attempt. Dan Martin starts the count, but stops when he sees Emily Walker get to the apron and attempt to enter the ring!

Troy: You've got to be kidding me!

Epton gets up to deal with Emily, but Fenix pops up, spins him around, and downs him with a DDT! Clarke calls for Dan Martin and the ref turns around for Fenix Clarke pin attempt! Martin counts… one, two, and Epton gets a shoulder up!

Troy: A near-fall for Fenix Clarke, but Emily Walker's interference hasn't cost Epton the match yet!

Buckingham: Good choice of words, Troy! It's only a matter of time until Epton joins the team!

Epton stumbles to his feet, but Clarke is right there, looking to capitalize. It’s now Clarke’s turn to attempt a suplex, but Epton is able to float over and kick Clarke in the gut, setting up his trademark corkscrew neckbreaker! Epton takes a couple steps back, but walks right into the ropes where Emily is waiting to grab his feet, tripping him to the mat! Epton immediately pops up and turns to Walker, but before he can say or do anything, Clarke spins him around from behind and decimates Epton with the Black Tear Fall! Clarke immediately goes for the cover and Dan Martin counts… one, two, three!
WINNER VIA PINFALL AT 4:06 – FENIX CLARKE

Buckingham: That's it! Welcome to the fold, Epton!

Troy: Oh come on, Randall! How can you celebrate this? Emily Walker cost Paul Epton another match, and now he's supposed to work with these people?!

Buckingham: Calm down, Troy! It's not like he's being forced out of the company. You said it yourself. He gets the privilege of working with Fenix Clarke now. This was the best possible outcome for Epton!

Emily slides into the ring and embraces Clarke in celebration. Emily is ecstatic, and an uncharacteristic smile appears on the face of the normally stoic Clarke. Meanwhile, Epton is finally regaining his bearings and, seeing the couple celebrating in the ring, a look of utter disappointment forms. Epton sits up, crushed at the realization that Emily and Fenix have gotten the best of him again.

Troy: How is Paul Epton expected to work under these conditions?

Buckingham: What conditions? Just give this situation a chance. Really, if Epton were smart, he’d realize the favor that Emily Walker is doing for him. Look at how good Fenix Clarke has been since his debut. Can you imagine what the two of these men will do under the tutelage of the brilliant and beautiful Emily Walker? The sky is the limit!

Troy: I don’t know. I just can’t believe this will be good for Epton in any way. Folks, we’ll be right back.

-- COMMERCIAL BREAK --

Back from break “Da Repercussions” by 50 Cent blasts onto the speakers and we see Michael Grieco and Dee Licious walking out to the stage, microphone in tow. They walk up the steel steps into the squared circle and stand in the center with irritated looks on their faces.

Grieco: I’m here to settle this thing once and for all. For the past few weeks, Matthew Magellan has insisted on being a wise guy and thinks it’s real funny to throw pies in our faces and embarrass us. Listen Magellan, this all started with your manager ruining Dee’s shirt. Now, maybe it’s because you are so desperate to get Jade to sleep with you that you decided to involve yourself in her affairs, I don’t know and I don’t care. But once you decided to mess with me, you sealed your fate. I’ve been patient the last couple weeks, giving you opportunity after opportunity to apologize and get the hell out of my way, but you don’t know what’s good for you. Well, the antics end here. I want you in a match so we can settle this one-on-one and I can give you the beat-down that you’ve had coming!

The speakers are silent for a few moments until “The Final Countdown” by the London Symphony Orchestra starts playing and “The Conquistador” Matthew Magellan and his manager Jade walk out onto the stage, ushered in by the cheers of the Madrid crowd. Magellan is the first to speak.

Magellan: See, and all this time, I thought you had a sense of humor. I guess I was wrong. But you know what, Grieco? Let’s do it. Next week, me and you, one-on-one.

Grieco: You know, I have to say, I’m surprised you didn’t try to duck me. Stupid, but impressive. But next week, Magellan, I’m gonna destroy you. But before we go and make this thing official, I have one demand: next week, during our match, all pie is banned from ringside. I don’t care if it’s a cherry pie, a blueberry pie, or even a pizza pie, any type of pie being present gets you disqualified. If you even say the word pie, or better yet, even THINK about pie, I’m going to have you disqualified.

Magellan: How would you know if I was thinking about pie? Well whatever, that’s beside the point. Fine, I concede. If there is any of MY pie at ringside, then I’ll be disqualified. But just to ensure that you don’t stoop to my level, if you are in possession of any pie yourself, then YOU will be disqualified.

Dee: We can guarantee you there won’t be any pie on our end because it is one of the lamest gimmicks ever. Only a ridiculous clown like you would still think it’s funny to throw pie in someone’s face!

Jade: Okay guys, let’s settle down about the pie. Grieco, you’ve got your match next week with Magellan. And just to show you our sincerity about the pie ordeal, we went to Justin Schenck earlier this evening. We talked things over with him and, after pulling a few strings, we’re pleased to announce that we got you a title shot tonight!

Grieco (with a surprised smile on his face): YOU got ME a title match? Which title is—

Jade: Oh, I’m sorry, Mike. You misunderstood. When I said we got “you” a title match, I was referring to Dee.

Suddenly, “Demons” by Aria hits the speakers and the fans cheer raucously for the PWA Women’s Champion Zina as she stalks her way to the ring, eyeing Dee Licious like a lioness going for the kill. Grieco rolls out of the ring and angrily slams his fists onto the apron, knowing that Dee is not prepared for what lies ahead. Enraged, Grieco starts back up the aisle, but Dee rolls out of the ring, grabs him, and pleads with him not to leave her side. She is practically in tears by the time referee Jose Soares makes it to the ring and Grieco finally acquiesces to her demands. Meanwhile, on the stage, Jade and Magellan exchange a satisfied smirk before heading to the back to watch the destruction that lies ahead.

Buckingham: Dee isn’t prepared for this! This is NOT fair!

Troy: It’s a title opportunity, Randall! If she doesn’t want one, why is she even competing here? This match now has the potential to change the landscape for Everlasting Epic. It’s not likely, but it could!

Buckingham: You’re just eating this up, aren’t you?

Troy: There’s no point in denying it; I am.

***

PWA WOMEN’S CHAMPIONSHIP:
ZINA (champion) VS. DEE LICIOUS (challenger)
Referee: Jose Soares
As soon as the bell sounds, Zina starts toward her challenger, but Dee refuses to leave the corner, using the ropes to shield herself. Finally, referee Soares makes her emerge from her corner and meet the champion in the center of the ring. Dee begs Zina off, pleading with her to forget about the match, but Zina has no interest in backing off from a fight. Realizing this, Dee changes course and pokes Zina in the eye.

Troy: Oh come on, ref! How are you gonna allow that?!

Buckingham: Look at Dee’s face! I think she was TRYING to get disqualified!

Soares shouts at Dee to follow the rules and lets her escape with a warning, something Dee wasn’t planning on. She peppers Zina with repeated clubbing forearms, but after a few of them, she realizes Zina is no longer feeling any pain. Now scared for her life, Dee turns to run, but Zina grabs her, whips her against the ropes, and vanquishes her with a modified ura-nage upon the return!

Dee slowly pulls herself back to a vertical base, but Zina is there, setting herself up for her Siberian Express bicycle kick. Seeing this, Michael Grieco jumps onto the ring apron, trying to provide a distraction, but Zina changes course and instead blasts Grieco right off the apron with the Siberian Express!

Troy: Yes! Goodnight, Grieco!

Buckingham: Would you stop rooting?! It’s SO unprofessional!

Turning the attention to Grieco allows Dee to regain her bearings, however, and she grabs Zina from behind, looking to deliver her finisher, The Tease. However, Zina blasts Dee with repeated elbows to the face until the hold is broken, allowing Zina to turn around and lock Dee in the Russian Bearhug! Zina squeezes tightly, shaking Dee like a rag doll until she taps out in short order!

Troy: That’s it! Zina wins it! What a dominating victory!

Buckingham: This is all Magellan and Jade’s fault!

The Madrid crowd cheers loudly as “Demons” replays and Zina exits victorious. When she reaches the stage, the Women’s Champion turns and lets out a guttural yell and, when she looks back at the devastation left behind, a smile.
WINNER VIA SUBMISSION AT 1:30 AND STILL WOMEN’S CHAMPION – ZINA

***

The camera cuts backstage, where Morgan Day is standing in front of a monitor in the SIN locker room, having just watched Zina cruise to another dominating victory. Morgan remains expressionless until her husband and SIN co-leader Vulture walks up to her.

Vulture: Hey babe. What’s going on?

Morgan: Scouting.

Vulture: Any observations?

Morgan: Other than the fact that Dee isn’t even remotely deserving of a title shot? Nothing I didn’t already know.

Vulture: Can I give some advice?

Morgan: Sure.

Vulture: A TLC match lends itself to certain advantages for the smaller, more agile competitor. Don’t focus on how to beat her; just focus on how to get up that ladder and grab the belt before she can get to you. I know it sounds patronizing and simplistic—

Morgan: It does.

Vulture: Hear me out.

Morgan: Fine. Go on.

Vulture: All I’m saying is tailor your strategy around how to use the environment against her and focus less on how you’ve prepared for her in the past. TLC matches are fueled by emotion and adrenaline, and you already have a built-in advantage being in front of your countrymen.

Just then, SIN member James Biamonte walks into the room and approaches the pair, first addressing Vulture.

Biamonte: Yo, what’s good, kid?

Vulture: James, the show is almost half over. Where the hell have you been?

Biamonte: I had to take care of some business.

Morgan: What kind of business do you have in Madrid?

Biamonte: Whatever it is, it’s none of yours.

Morgan: Oh really? Not the kind of business that’s going to get you suspended and leave us handicapped at Everlasting Epic I hope.

Vulture: Alright, alright, that’s enough out of both of you. James, I really need you to be here on time if this is gonna work.

Biamonte: I’m not even booked tonight.

Vulture: I need you on standby.

Biamonte: Fine. And trust me, kid, I’m not doing anything that’s gonna get me suspended. Promise.

Vulture: Better not be. You know I stuck my neck out for you, and if you let me down, I won’t be able to get you another chance.

Biamonte: And I appreciate that. All I’m saying is if you want me focused, find more for me to do around here. Now, I’m gonna go get something to eat. You guys want anything?

Vulture: We’re good.

Biamonte then walks off camera.

Morgan: I know he’s your cousin, but I truly hate that man.

Vulture: Give him a chance. He can be an asset.

Morgan: He CAN be an asset. But he IS a liability.

Morgan then walks off, just as Greg Tantalus and Markus Krieg approach.

Tantalus: What’s going on with Biamonte? I saw him walk in for two seconds and then leave. He’s not—

Vulture: No! He’s fine. At least with what you’re talking about. He’s just not overly enthusiastic about falling in line.

Tantalus: Well, he’d better get enthusiastic. There are five of us in that Gauntlet Match at Everlasting Epic, and even one of us drops the ball, it’s gonna affect all the rest of us.

Vulture: He’ll be fine. We don’t even know if Failla’s gonna make it now.

Tantalus: Trust me, he won’t. You don’t make it back from the SIN Special in four and a half weeks. But I fully expect Schenck to find a replacement.

Vulture: Even so, we have a STRONG team, with or without Biamonte. Hell, you’ve got Markus here who’s still undefeated in singles competition.

Krieg: And I plan on staying that way through Everlasting Epic.

Vulture: That’s what I like to hear!

Tantalus: Just keep your cousin in line, ok?

Vulture: Fine. Excuse me a minute, I’ve gotta have a word with the kids.

Vulture then walks off and the camera follows him through the locker room until he reaches the PWA International Champion John Wolfe, who is conversing with Alexis and Chris, the Duval Twins.

Vulture: How we doing over here?

Chris: Hey Dad.

Alexis: We’re good.

Vulture: John? All set? You and Calysto are up next.

Wolfe: I’m ready, V. The plan will be executed to perfection.

Vulture: Excellent. Well, it’s about that time. Go get ‘em, champ.

Vulture then slaps Wolfe on the back as the International Champion grabs his manager Alexis by the hand and they exit the room, headed for the ring.

Troy: It’s PWA Champion Jason Calysto against International Champion John Wolfe, and it’s next!

-- COMMERCIAL BREAK --

As we return from break, “Charlie Big Potato” by Skunk Anansie hits the speakers and the fans begin booing as the PWA International Champion John Wolfe emerges from behind the curtain with his manager Alexis Duval. Wolfe and Alexis soak in the jeers as they head down the aisle.

Buckingham: This is a huge opportunity for John Wolfe, Troy. Just three weeks into his reign as International Champion, he has a chance to square off with the PWA Champion, a chance to make a big impression on his SIN leaders and to show he can hang with the likes of the best in the world.

Troy: There’s no doubt about that. The question is CAN he hang with the likes of the best in the world? We’re about to find out!

With Wolfe in the ring and Alexis standing in his corner, Oasis’ “F*ckin’ in the Bushes” thumps onto the speakers and the Madrid crowd cheers thunderously for The Iceman Jason Calysto! The PWA World Heavyweight Champion emerges from behind the curtain and soaks in the cheers, but after taking several steps down the aisle, he is suddenly clobbered in the back with a steel chair by Chris Duval!

Troy: What the hell is going on?!

Buckingham: I don’t know, but I love it!

Calysto goes down to a knee, prompting Duval to blast him again. He then throws down the chair and begins stomping him viciously as the crowd boos raucously. From there, Vulture slowly walks out from behind the curtain and picks up the chair. When Duval realizes his father is there, he lifts Calysto up and Irish whips him towards Vulture, who cracks him in the head with the chair as he reaches him, taking him down hard!

Vulture then spikes the chair to the ground and instructs his son to bring Calysto to the ring. Duval does just that as Vulture meets Wolfe in the squared circle, rolling Calysto inside. Duval then slides into the ring, just as Vulture instructs Wolfe to destroy the world champion with a chokeslam. Assigned referee Matt Hansen tries to stop him, but soon realizes it would be best for him to retreat to the back, with this match never actually getting started. Wolfe then vanquishes Calysto with the chokeslam before Wolfe and Duval unleash a few stomps on Calysto for good measure.

With The Iceman now incapacitated, Vulture instructs Wolfe and Duval to prop Calysto up in the corner, while also calling on Alexis to grab him a microphone. With Calysto defenseless in the corner, Vulture proceeds to nail him with repeated slaps to the face!

Troy: Oh, come on! This is completely uncalled for!

Buckingham: I beg to differ! This is an incredible message that Vulture is sending!

Troy: What, that he’s a coward?!

Buckingham: No, that HE, not Calysto, is in control!

Alexis now hands Vulture a microphone and he gets right in Calysto’s barely-conscious face and begins speaking.

Vulture: You know, Iceman, last week, you came out here and you tried to appeal to my pride to get me to agree to leave SIN in the back at Everlasting Epic. Well, tonight, I just showed you exactly what can happen if I don’t. Do you see the power of this weapon I wield, Calysto? Sure, I could do this the “right way” and fight for honor, and maybe winning this way wouldn’t mean as much for my legacy. But 10, 20 years from now, is anyone going to remember how I won? No. They’re going to remember THAT I won. And the purse that comes with winning and defending the PWA Championship is just as big whether I win on my own or use the napalm at my disposal. Now, Iceman, I’m not saying one way or another what I’m going to do at Everlasting Epic. There’s truly no advantage in that. But at least now, when you talk about the possibility of being attacked by SIN, you can speak from experience.

With that, Vulture tosses the microphone to the mat and has Wolfe and Duval deliver Calysto to him, allowing Vulture to crush him with the Crimson Sunset. From there, Vulture, Wolfe, and the Duval Twins stand over Calysto, attracting vociferous boos as “Electric Head Pt. 1: The Agony” by White Zombie blares over the speakers and we head to commercial.

Troy: Vulture may be standing tall now, but who will get the last laugh on September 10th in London, when Vulture challenges Jason Calysto for the PWA Championship at Everlasting Epic VII?! We’ll be right back!
 
-- COMMERCIAL BREAK --

Back from break, “More Human Than Human” by White Zombie hits the speakers and the fans boo the arrival of The Omega and Darrin Giles, collectively known as Synergy. The two pay little attention to the fans as they enter the ring and prepare for battle.

Moments later, “You Don’t Know” by Eminem and 50 Cent hits and the fans give a roaring ovation to Paul Dawkins and Renegade as they head down to the ring! Dawkins and Renegade still make their trademark energetic entrance, but it is a little muted.

Troy: Dawkins and Renegade seem to be in a bit more serious mood tonight, and it’s completely understandable. Because of Synergy, Paul Dawkins was taken out backstage at the Symphony of Destruction three months ago, costing him and Renegade an opportunity at Texas Justice and the Tag Team Championship that night.

Buckingham: But they totally had it coming, Troy. Because of these jokers, original Synergy member Don “The MVP” Capriglione was knocked out for the season, and the hard times that have befallen The Omega since then have been entirely the fault of Dawkins and Renegade.

Troy: Oh brother.

PAUL DAWKINS & RENEGADE VS. SYNERGY
Referee: Tom Stevens
At the sound of the bell, Dawkins opts to start the match, anxious to get his revenge, while The Omega does so for his team, also seeking vengeance. The two lock up in the center of the ring, but Dawkins immediately shoves him down to the mat to a loud ovation. Omega pops right back to his feet, but Dawkins is done playing around, tackling him to the mat and unloading on him with a flurry of rights and lefts!

Referee Stevens tries and succeeds to break the two up, but as soon as Omega gets back to his feet, Dawkins shoves past Stevens and floors him with the Scud Missile!

Troy: Scud Missile! Omega might be out!

Buckingham: But here comes Giles!

Giles does indeed try to enter the ring, but Renegade shoots into the squared circle and cuts him off at the pass, stopping him in his tracks with the Kick of Death! Then, Dawkins grabs the wobbly Omega as he rises and absolutely destroys him with the MOAB! Dawkins turns him over and covers emphatically… one, two, three!

Troy: And that does it! What a dominating victory for Paul Dawkins and Renegade!

Buckingham: Can’t argue there. C’mon, Synergy! You’re looking like a couple of punks out there!

The Madrid crowd cheers loudly as “You Don’t Know” replays and Dawkins and Renegade head to the back in victory, leaving The Omega and Giles groggy and incapacitated in the squared circle as we take a commercial break.
WINNERS VIA PINFALL AT 2:21 – PAUL DAWKINS & RENEGADE

-- COMMERCIAL BREAK --

As we return, “The Stone Monkey” by Kazu Matsui hits the speakers and Keiko Ishida makes her way to the ring to a round of boos. Keiko seems to feed off the negativity as she settles herself in the ring and awaits her rival.

She isn’t made to wait long, as “Baai” by Abdel Gadir Salim and Emmanuel Jal hits the speakers and Kemi Okoro makes her entrance to a loud ovation!

Troy: Alright, here comes Kemi Okoro, and we’re gonna do it one more time here tonight with Keiko and Kemi!

Buckingham: These two have competed twice before, splitting the two meetings, but we should have a clear winner after tonight.

Kemi enters the ring, still riding the wave of cheers, but Keiko takes the opportunity to club her down to the mat from behind!

Troy: Oh come on! What the hell was that?!

Buckingham: It’s called a competitive edge, Troy!

Referee Dan Martin admonishes Keiko and moves her back to a neutral corner while Kemi gets to her feet. Then, after checking to make sure she is able to continue, Martin signals for the bell to be rung.

KEIKO ISHIDA VS. KEMI OKORO
Referee: Dan Martin
Keiko attempts to pick up right where she left off, charging right at Kemi and attempting to bowl her over with aggression, but Okoro counters with a drop toehold! Then, when Keiko rises, Kemi downs her with a big dropkick that sends Ishida tumbling to the outside! The fans cheer, but the cheers only grow in volume when Kemi gets a running start and takes Keiko out with a senton splash from the ring all the way to the outside!

Troy: Look at that! Kemi Okoro is on fire, and these people are loving it!

Buckingham: Then it’ll be a shame when Keiko snuffs out that fire in just a little bit.

Keiko and Kemi are both slow to their feet on the outside, with Kemi taking a bit of a bad fall on her landing. Keiko actually beats Kemi to her feet and rolls back into the ring before sliding out of it again, breaking the count. From there, Keiko grabs Kemi and whips her viciously into the guardrail, the smack of spine onto steel audible throughout the arena.

While Kemi writhes in pain against the guardrail, Keiko looks to put her away. Ishida backs up a few steps and charges, looking to use a variation of her Oshimai running STO to smash Okoro into the guardrail again. However, Kemi sees her coming and counters with a back body drop that sends Keiko over the rail and into the crowd!

Troy: What a counter by Kemi! If she gets into the ring, she may win this one by count-out!

Buckingham: What a cheap win that would be!

At length, Kemi rolls back into the ring and remains there as the referee’s count reaches as high as eight. At that point, Keiko comes back over the rail and attempts to head back into the ring.  However, when it becomes clear that she won’t make it, Kemi looks to take matters into her own hands, climbing to the top rope and leaping off with an Igbo Bomb all the way to the arena floor… only for Keiko to move out of the way, causing Okoro to crash back-first onto the thin mat covering the concrete floor!

Troy: Kemi took a big risk and it backfired!

Buckingham: What an idiot!

With the count broken due to Kemi’s leap, both women have a fresh count to get back into the ring. At the count of six, Keiko is able to slide back inside, with Okoro still having hardly moved. When the count reaches eight, Kemi begins to rise. She is up to one knee at nine, but stumbles after taking a step, rendering her unable to return to the ring before referee Dan Martin shouts out “10,” giving the match to Keiko.

Troy: What an unfortunate ending to this match for Kemi Okoro!

Buckingham: No Troy, she got what she deserved. What we have here is a brilliant victory by Keiko Ishida!

Troy: Are you kidding me? A few moments ago, when it appeared Kemi would win by count-out, you called that cheap. Now that Keiko has won the exact same way, it’s brilliant?

Buckingham: Yes, because Kemi brought this on herself.

Troy: Whatever, Randall. Keiko Ishida takes the third match in this series by count-out, but if you ask me, nothing is settled here.

Buckingham: Good thing no one asked you!

The fans boo as “The Stone Monkey” replays over the speakers and Keiko makes it back to her feet to have her hand raised in victory. Ishida hardly takes a look back at the slowly-rising Okoro as she exits, content with her victory as we head to commercial.
WINNER VIA COUNT-OUT AT 4:59 – KEIKO ISHIDA

***

Backstage, we are taken to Scythe’s dressing room where the Modern-Day Samurai is talking with Kerry Cox and his protégé Jon Dulberg, strategizing with the two about Dulberg’s match tonight against Solomon. Scythe is imparting his wisdom to Dulberg on how he was able to defeat the Alaskan Monster last year at Everlasting Epic VI, when The Miracle Mike Troha and the Standard Sleaze Don Cerrone stroll past Scythe’s open dressing room door.

Troha: Hallelujah! God told me it would be my lucky day, but I had no idea I’d be getting three losers for the price of one!

Cerrone: Looks like they are saying their final goodbyes before they send the little lamb Dulberg out to slaughter.

Troha: Oh, in that case, let me pray for you.

The Miracle then proceeds to drop to his knees and raise his hands to the heavens.

Troha: Dear Lord, please take care of my GOOD friend Jon Dulberg tonight. Have mercy on him and make sure he doesn’t make it out of the match alive after the severe beat-down he receives at the hands of Solomon. Almighty God, take him off this Earth because he is a boring loser that hides behind great music but will otherwise never accomplish anything in this company. 

Cox: Listen, Troha. You should be praying for God to bless you with the power of silence, ‘cause if you don’t shut your face, I’m gonna do it for you.

Voice: Is there a problem here?

 The voice is emanating from GI Jew, who casually strolls up to the Scythe’s dressing room door.

Scythe: Stay out of this, Jew. This isn’t your problem.

Troha: Actually, that’s where you’re wrong. Ever since I made my miraculous return at the Symphony of Destruction, there has been a great deal of tension between us. And after much personal reflection on the matter, I realized that it was because YOU were persecuting ME for my religious beliefs. Week after week, I began to feel more and more threatened by you. You’ve chastised me and called me a fake time and time again, when in reality the bond I feel with God is very real. The only solution for feeling threatened: hire some muscle. So boys, I’d like to introduce you to my soldier of fortune, GI Jew.

Dulberg: You can’t be serious?! How in the world could you possibly convince someone like GI Jew, a man that hates everybody, to work for two idiots like you?

Cerrone: Three words, Daddy-O: Cold hard cash. I had about 20 grand coming to me as the upfront part of my advance for my next book, and I just had my publisher pay Mr. Jew in full in exchange for his services for the rest of the season.

Cox: ...for a few pieces of silver, huh Judas?

Jew: Don’t you call me a goddamn Judas. In case you forgot, Judas betrayed his friend Jesus for 30 pieces of silver. When exactly were we friends again? Truth be told, I’d beat all your asses for free. Gentlemen, shall we?

Troha and Cerrone move along as GI Jew stands in front of Scythe’s dressing room door, engaging in an intense staredown with Cox, Dulberg, and Scythe as we head to commercial.

-- COMMERCIAL BREAK --

Back from break, “Marriage of Figaro” by Mozart is heard in the arena and the fans boo for the arrival of Dexter P. Wellington. Dex is carrying a small pouch with him and has a wide smile on his face. As he walks towards the ring, he pulls gold coins out of the pouch and starts handing them out to people at ringside.

Troy: What is going on here? Is Dex handing out gold to the fans?

Buckingham: He hasn't gone soft, has he? It looks like he's coming this way, though.

Dex heads to the announce table and hands some of his gold coins to Troy and Buckingham. Buckingham immediately starts laughing hysterically, while a look of confusion and outrage comes across Victor Troy's face.

Troy: This is chocolate! Dexter Wellington is mocking Saif again, this time by handing out chocolate coins to the fans! This is outrageous!

Buckingham: I like it, Troy. I'm surprised no one's thought of this before. Plus, I needed a snack!

The fans continue their booing until “Aksem” by Ahlam blasts through the arena and Saif al Abbad runs towards the ring, ready to get his hands on Dex, a man who has hurled insult after insult at him the last couple of weeks.

Troy: Saif al Abbad is here and he's not wasting any time! He wants a piece of Dexter Wellington and now is his chance!

Buckingham: And let’s not forget that this match is effectively the semifinals of a tournament for a Progressive Championship opportunity! Whoever wins this match goes on to face Asai Moon next week for a shot at the title at Everlasting Epic!

Saif slides into the ring and tackles DPW to the mat, taking the fight straight to him! Referee Jose Soares then calls for the bell, getting this match underway.

DEXTER P. WELLINGTON VS. SAIF AL ABBAD
Referee: Jose Soares
Dex tries to cover his face to protect himself from Saif, but the generous grappler refuses to let up! After struggling to get some cover, Dex finally gets a break as he pokes Saif’s eyes, prompting him to roll off Wellington. Dex then gets to his feet as referee Soares warns him about using further illegal maneuvers.

Saif reaches a vertical base and the two take a moment for a staredown and to talk some smack. They then approach each other and exchange fists before DPW is able to get an advantage by delivering an armdrag. Saif rolls back up, but Wellington takes him down with a clothesline. Saif rolls up again, and DPW goes for another clothesline, but Saif ducks it and takes down Dex with a neckbreaker!

Troy: And here's a momentum shift!

Saif lifts up Dex and Irish whips him against the ropes, taking him down with a drop toehold upon the return. Dex gets to his knees, but Saif downs him again with a shining wizard! Saif then signals to the crowd that it's time to put the match away, calling for his inverted figure-four leglock!

Buckingham: Get out of the ring, Dex! Don't let him do it!

Saif is able to lock in the move, and pain overcomes the face of Dexter Wellington! Dex struggles in the move, trying to get out, but lies down in an effort to lessen the agony. Referee Soares gets down for the count… one, two, and Dex lifts his shoulders up. Dex is really struggling at this point, and it looks like he is about to tap, until he pokes the eyes of Saif again and punches him in the head repeatedly until Saif breaks the hold!

Buckingham: There you go, Dex! That's how you win matches!

Troy: No, Randall, that's usually how you lose matches, but it looks like Dex is getting off with only a warning again!

Soares indeed warns Dex that he'll be disqualified if he continues the dirty moves, but Dex ignores him and continues punching Saif, as the latter tries to regain his footing. Dex then downs Saif with a quick DDT, before lifting him up and downing him again with a bulldog. Finally, Dex picks up Saif and is able to deliver a German suplex, which he bridges into a pin! Referee Soares counts… one, two, and Saif gets a shoulder up!

Dex picks up Saif again and goes for another German suplex, which he again bridges into a pin! Soares counts… one, two, and Saif gets his shoulder up again! Dex is now visibly frustrated, slamming his hands onto the mat. Dex then picks up Saif one more time, but this time, decides to go for the Million Dollar Dream!

Buckingham: I've got a great feeling about this, Troy! Dex is going take Saif out once and for all!

Troy: Can Wellington finally put Saif away with the Million Dollar Dream?!

Dex gets the Million Dollar Dream locked in, but Saif immediately starts struggling towards the ropes. Wellington counters by pulling him back towards the center of the ring, but Saif uses the momentum to rush Dex backwards into the ropes. Dex perseveres, trying to pull Saif back towards the center again, but Saif is able to get his hands on the ropes at the turnbuckle. Dex refuses to let go, and referee Soares begins counting.  One, two, three, four, and Dex lets the move go, just in the nick of time.

Jose Soares goes right up to Wellington this time, scolding him in full for ignoring him. Meanwhile, Saif is bent over in the corner, trying to catch his breath. Dex gets tired of hearing Soares and pushes past him, but just as Soares looks for the timekeeper to consider the disqualification, Saif grabs an approaching Dex by the head, runs up the turnbuckle, and slams DPW back down with the Dubai Dazzler! The crowd erupts in cheers!

Troy: Oh my god!

Buckingham: No! No, this can't be happening! Where did that come from!

Troy: Saif dug down deep and caught Dex with the Dubai Dazzler! He's just gotta make a cover now!

Saif crawls over to the down and out Wellington and gets an arm over for the pin! Soares drops to the mat and begins the count… one, two, three!

Troy: What an incredible finish to this match, ladies and gentlemen! Saif al Abbad was able to... oh no! It's Alvarez! The Progressive Champion Juan Pablo Alvarez is rushing to the ring!

Buckingham: Yes! Alvarez is here for the save!

Troy: What save?!
WINNER VIA PINFALL AT 7:49 – SAIF AL ABBAD

Alvarez dives into the ring and takes Saif down, going right on the offensive. Saif tries to hold his own, but is exhausted from his match and quickly falls prey to the fresh Progressive Champion. Alvarez downs Saif with a powerslam and begins stomping him into the mat. Meanwhile, Dex Wellington is finally coming to and gets up to help Alvarez. The situation looks grim for Saif… that is, until the fans erupt once more for the arrival of Asai Moon, who rushes to the ring and dropkicks Dex over the top rope!

Troy: Now THIS is a save! Asai Moon is here and he’s making an immediate impact!
 
Buckingham: Why is this happening?!

Moon now turns his attention the Progressive Champion, but Alvarez sees him coming and tries to head him off at the pass with a clothesline. However, Asai is able to counter, taking advantage of Alvarez's momentum and turning it right into a Flip Bottom, downing the champ in one fell swoop!

With the fans cheering loudly, Alvarez rolls out of the ring and begins shouting at Moon, while Dex is already making his way to the back. Asai helps Saif up, and the two motion to Alvarez, daring him to get back in the ring. Alvarez just stares at the two men in the ring and a pensive look appears on their faces. Both are signaling to Alvarez that they're coming for his belt, until they realize that they first have to go through the man standing next to them!

Buckingham: Well how is this going to work, Troy? If I were either one of those men, I would take the opportunity to crush my competition right now! Hell, if I were Moon, I wouldn't have come out in the first place!

Troy: But that's the difference between you and those men, Randall; the difference between those men and Juan Pablo Alvarez. They want to win the right way. And while they may realize now that they have to go through each other before getting to Everlasting Epic to challenge for the Progressive Championship, the fact that these two men have helped each other is proof of their respect for not only each other, but the title itself!

Buckingham: That might be the most ridiculous thing you’ve ever said!

Troy: Folks, we’ll be right back!

-- COMMERCIAL BREAK --

As we return from commercial, “Hear Me” by Darkseed blares onto the speakers and the Madrid crowd boos loudly as the Alaskan Monster Solomon begins stalking his way to the ring.

Troy: Any chance Solomon learned anything from his suspension?

Buckingham: Other than that he really, really hates Evan Black? No, probably not.

At length, Solomon enters the ring and settles himself inside. Once he does, “Welcome Home” by Coheed and Cambria hits and the Human Highlight Jon Dulberg makes his entrance alongside manager Kerry Cox. Dulberg is greeted by a wave of cheers when he emerges, but he does little to acknowledge the fans, focused instead on the task at hand.

Buckingham: Any chance Dulberg’s career doesn’t end in about five minutes?

Troy: Will you be serious?

Buckingham: I’m dead serious. And in a few minutes, Dulberg will simply be dead.

Troy: Dulberg and Solomon actually crossed paths in PWA’s old developmental organization close to a decade ago, when Solomon was a young buck honing his skills prior to his PWA debut and Dulberg was rehabbing an injury. This won’t be their first meeting. And as we saw earlier tonight, he sought out some advice from Scythe, a man who knows a thing or two about beating the Alaskan Monster.

Buckingham: Everything you just said is completely irrelevant.  You know why? Because that is a different Solomon in the ring right now. I believe Evan Black has changed him, and if you don’t believe me, ask Mike Tortorici, if you can find the hospital he’s staying at.

Dulberg enters the ring and stands toe-to-toe with the Alaskan Monster, but before the bell can ring, “Hero” by Nas featuring Keri Hilson thumps onto the speakers and the Madrid crowd cheers thunderously for Evan Black as he makes his way to the ringside area in street clothes!

Buckingham: What the hell is he doing out here?! He and Solomon aren’t allowed to touch or their Everlasting Epic match will be cancelled!

Troy: Who said he’s out here to touch Solomon?

Buckingham: Maybe he’s out here to attack Solomon and get his EE match cancelled because he’s scared!

As Solomon shoots daggers at his Everlasting Epic opponent with his eyes, Black walks around the ring and approaches the announce table, where he dons a headset and joins Victor Troy and Randall Buckingham.

Troy: What a pleasant surprise! Evan Black, welcome to the announce position!

Black: Thanks, Vic. Glad to be here.

Buckingham: What is wrong with you?

Black: Excuse me?

Buckingham: Are you out here solely to taunt Solomon and throw him off his game? Where’s your dignity?

Black: I’m just out here scouting, Randall. Just out here scouting.

SOLOMON VS. JON DULBERG
Referee: Tom Stevens
As soon as the bell sounds, Solomon attempts to take out his considerable aggression on Dulberg, charging at him with a huge clothesline attempt, but Dulberg ducks under it and stuns Solomon with a big dropkick! With Solomon momentarily off his game, Dulberg gets a running start and delivers another dropkick, this one causing the Alaskan Monster to teeter!

Troy: Will Solomon go down?!

Black: Looks like me simply sitting here might be in the big man’s head after all.

Seeing the opportunity in front of him, Dulberg feeds off the encouragement from his manager Cox and climbs up to the top rope and leaps off, looking for a diving cross body! However, Solomon shakes off the cobwebs at the last second and catches the Human Highlight in mid-air, effortlessly turning it into a Deep Freeze!

Troy: My God!

Buckingham: There’s a glimpse into your future, Black! Hope you enjoyed it!

Dulberg is down and out, but Solomon is not done with him. The Alaskan Monster peels Dulberg off the mat and heaves him onto his shoulders again, this time turning around to face Evan Black at the broadcast position. Solomon stares right through Black, not needing to say a word as he gives him a front row seat to the second Deep Freeze, which crashes Dulberg to the mat with ferocious authority. Solomon then plants his right boot on Dulberg’s chest as the referee counts… one, two, three.

Buckingham: Total domination! I can’t wait until that’s you at Everlasting Epic, Black!

Black: Shut it, Buckingham.
WINNER VIA PINFALL AT 2:39 – SOLOMON

As Black speaks, his eyes are locked with Solomon’s, neither man making a move. As “Hear Me” replays, booming through the speakers, Kerry Cox takes the opportunity to pull Dulberg out of the ring and to safety before Solomon turns around and perhaps desires to make another statement. Meanwhile, on the outside, Evan Black stands in his seat, throwing off his headset and taking a step towards the ring. Solomon then smiles, exiting the squared circle to stand right in front of Black.

Troy: Evan, watch it! If you touch each other, the match is out the window!

Black doesn’t hear Troy at all as the staredown continues. Finally, security comes down from the back to ensure the two men don’t collide as we head to break.

Buckingham: Close call!

Troy: It was, but as of now we’re still on! Evan Black and Solomon in a Falls Count Anywhere match in London September 10th at Everlasting Epic VII, and if Solomon loses, his career is over! But before we go off the air tonight, Justin Schenck will update us on Anthony Failla’s condition! And folks, that’s up next! Stay with us!

-- COMMERCIAL BREAK --

Back from break, “Uprising” by Muse hits the speakers and we are taken to our commentators Victor Troy and Randall Buckingham at ringside.

Troy: Alright ladies and gentlemen, we still have more to come before tonight’s broadcast is through, but let’s first take a minute to talk about what’s on the horizon 25 nights from tonight, when we invade London’s Wembley Stadium for Everlasting Epic VII!

Buckingham: It certainly is shaping up to be an absolutely monumental evening, and I don’t think I’ve ever been more excited for any other show since I’ve been in this company!

Troy: Randall, I’ve been here since day one, and I think I might say the same thing! And folks, a lot of that has to do with our main event, a rubber match that’s more than eight years in the making! Of course, I’m talking about Jason Calysto vs. Vulture for the PWA World Heavyweight Championship!

Buckingham: That is going to be an absolute war, and after tonight, I truly believe Vulture wants this match more. But it’s going to be one hell of a battle and I absolutely cannot wait!

Troy: Neither can I, but that’s far from all we have in store on September 10th. Randall, the PWA Tag Team Championship will be up for grabs inside Hell in a Cell, when Texas Justice defends the gold against the legendary Hot Boy$!

Buckingham: They may be legendary, and their EE records may be impeccable, but in my opinion, Jaguar and Romeo will be facing an uphill battle when they lock themselves inside the cell with two animals.

Troy: The Alaskan Monster Solomon puts his career on the line against Evan Black in a match where there are no count-outs, no disqualifications, and falls count anywhere!

Buckingham: Evan Black may think he knows what he’s doing by getting Solomon to put his career on the line, but given the state of mind the Alaskan Monster is sure to be in, facing him in a match with effectively no rules seems to me like a suicide mission.

Troy: Morgan Day goes home to England to challenge Zina for the PWA Women’s Championship in a Tables, Ladders, and Chairs match!

Buckingham: This is the biggest women’s match in the history of Everlasting Epic, and quite possibly in the entire history of the PWA. I know a lot of people are predicting that Zina will tear Morgan apart in this environment, but think about this: Morgan is quicker and more agile than Zina, should have an easier time climbing a ladder to grab the title belt, and she can win the title without having to pin Zina or force her to submit. Zina chose this stipulation, but I actually think it may favor Morgan Day, who will have the bonus advantage of the hometown crowd on her side.

Troy: And of course, we will also have the five-on-five Gauntlet Match, where SIN members Greg Tantalus, Markus Krieg, James Biamonte, Chris Duval, and the PWA International Champion John Wolfe square off with Dan Crowley, Showtime Damon Savage, Chase Stone, Hollywood Mike Griffin and, health permitting, Anthony Failla. Each team will seed its members from one through five, and we’ll start off with a singles match between the two number ones. Then, each time someone is eliminated by pinfall, submission, count-out, or disqualification, his team will move on to its next entrant. When one team eliminates all members of the opposition, that team will be declared the winner.

Buckingham: And Troy, you mentioned that Anthony Failla’s status in the match is up in the air, but it’s time to find us exactly where things stand. I’ve been told that Justin Schenck is on his way out here right now!

***

With that, “Reason to Hate Me” by Krayzie Bone hits the speakers and the fans cheer as PWA creative director Justin Schenck makes his way to the ring. Schenck does not look to be in a good mood as he grabs the microphone and enters the squared circle.

Schenck: Alright, I’ve got a lot to cover tonight, so we’re gonna get right to it. But first, I’d like to invite Dan Crowley, Damon Savage, Chase Stone, and Mike Griffin out to the ring so they can hear what I have to say in person.

Moments later, “Judas Rising” by Judas Priest hits and the fans cheer loudly as Dan Crowley and Showtime Damon Savage lead their Everlasting Epic partners Chase Stone and Hollywood Mike Griffin to the ring. Schenck shakes each of their hands as they enter.

Schenck: Thanks for coming out here. I’m a pretty direct person, so I’m gonna just come out and tell you what I know and where things stand. I’ve spoken with Anthony Failla’s doctors, and I have been informed that Failla’s ankle is indeed broken. However, and I am not a doctor, but apparently as breaks go, his could have been a lot worse. Unfortunately, his injury still required surgery, which he had last Thursday. According to his doctors, Failla will be out of action for six to eight weeks, which of course is beyond the timetable for an Everlasting Epic return. I did speak with Failla this weekend and he assured me he would beat the projection and make it back in time, but I just can’t take the risk. I have made the decision to remove Anthony Failla from the team and give him time to heal properly.

Troy: Oh no!

Buckingham: Things are looking up for SIN!

Schenck: Now, I know this complicates matters for Everlasting Epic, and puts your team at a bit of a disadvantage. However, I have spent the last several days carefully considering all options, and am thrilled to say that I have selected Failla’s replacement.

Crowley, Showtime, Stone, and Griffin look at Schenck curiously as he continues speaking.

Schenck: I truly believe this man is on the rise here in the PWA, and I believe he is properly motivated to join this cause and fight alongside each one of you. So, without any further delay, I give you Anthony Failla’s replacement!

With that, “Body Ya” by Fabolous hits the speakers and the Madrid crowd gives a warm welcome to Rich Revis!

Troy: Look at that! It’s Rich Revis! Just last week, he had an opportunity to join SIN, but now, he’ll be opposing them at Everlasting Epic!

Buckingham: I don’t believe this! What a traitor!

Troy: Traitor?!

Buckingham: He was an original member of SIN when he was known as Reaper, and now he turns down re-entering the group to instead FACE them at EE7? Ridiculous!

Troy: Dan Crowley did the same thing!

Buckingham: But I already knew Dan Crowley was a slug! I had some hope Rich Revis had more character!

Troy: Will you stop?!

Revis enters the ring and shakes hands first with Justin Schenck and then all his new teammates, saving his former tag team partner Crowley for last. When the two finally come face-to-face, there is a brief pause and moment of tension before the two shake hands to a round of cheers from the Madrid crowd.

However, the good spirits are quickly broken when White Zombie’s “Electric Head Pt.1: The Agony” hits the speakers and Greg Tantalus emerges from behind the curtain carrying a microphone and flanked by his Everlasting Epic teammates Markus Krieg, James Biamonte, Chris Duval, and International Champion John Wolfe.

Tantalus: Seriously? We take out Anthony Failla, the single biggest threat on your entire team, and the best you can do to replace him is Rich Revis, a SIN reject?

Revis: I hate to correct you, Tantalus, but I rejected YOU.

Tantalus: Are you seriously speaking to me? Why don’t you go paint your face white, Reaper? Do you really think that taking a few years off, changing your name, and declaring that you’ll go it alone changes the fact that you will ALWAYS be our lackey?

Revis: Keep talking.

Tantalus: Oh trust me, I will. Let me ask you something, Reaper.

Revis: It’s Rich Revis.

Tantalus: Whatever, Reaper. But let me ask you this: Why is joining SIN against your objective to stand on your own, but joining that group of losers in the ring is ok?

Revis: Do I even need to answer that, Tantalus? I’ve been in SIN before. Being a part of SIN consumes your entire life. It’s a long-term commitment, and you sacrifice your individual careers to be a part of a larger mission. And I bet every single person standing beside you now realizes that, the way Dan Crowley and I did eight years ago. The five of us here? We’ve been assembled for one night, with the sole purpose of breaking SIN down. And you know what? Given that I came back here to get away from who I was in the past, to get away from Reaper, having the opportunity to stick it to the group that labeled me as nothing more than a lackey is pretty sweet.

Tantalus: You have an opportunity, but it will result in failure, just like your entire career. You ARE nothing more than a lackey, and that’s never going to change. But you just gave me a good idea. Like you said, you and Crowley were members of SIN all those years ago, alongside myself and alongside Vulture. How about next week, we see exactly which half of the original SIN was the better one? How about next week, we see Tantalus and Vulture go up against the Lost Souls?

Troy: What?! Are the Lost Souls going to reunite next week?!

Before Revis can answer, Crowley asks for and receives the microphone.

Crowley: The Lost Souls were Speed Demon and Reaper, Tantalus. Speed Demon and Reaper are dead. But if you want a fight with Crowley and Revis next week, you can count me in.

Revis: You know what? That makes two of us.

Crowley and Revis then shake hands as the Madrid crowd cheers. Amidst the cheering, Justin Schenck grabs the microphone.

Schenck: I’ll tell you what, Tantalus. I’ll make that match next week on one condition: we make it a lumberjack match! And who will the lumberjacks be? They’ll be Markus Krieg, John Wolfe, Chris Duval, James Biamonte. They’ll be Showtime Damon Savage, Chase Stone, Hollywood Mike Griffin. They’ll even be Morgan Day and Alexis Duval. But… they’ll also be the PWA Women’s Champion Zina… and the PWA World Heavyweight Champion Jason Calysto!

A smirk appears on Tantalus’ face.

Tantalus: A lumberjack match it is.

An intense staredown now persists between the SIN camp and the Justin Schenck camp as the fans cheer loudly and the camera fades to black.

Troy: What an announcement! Rich Revis has joined Dan Crowley, Showtime Damon Savage, Chase Stone, and Hollywood Mike Griffin for the Everlasting Epic gauntlet match, and next week, he will team up with his former Lost Souls tag team partner Crowley to face SIN co-leaders Vulture and Greg Tantalus in what should be an absolutely electric lumberjack match!

Buckingham: If Justin Schenck isn’t careful, his team could lose two more members before we even get to Everlasting Epic!

Troy: I suppose we’ll find out next week! Goodnight, everybody!


-- END SHOW --


Pre-Show Dark Matches:
1. PWA Women’s Champion Zina & Jade def. Morgan Day & Alexis Duval at 5:41. Zina pinned Alexis after the Siberian Express bicycle kick. (Referee: Dan Martin)
2. The Miracle Mike Troha def. Matthew Magellan at 6:12 with Divine Intervention. (Referee: Jose Soares)

Post-Show Dark Match:
1. PWA World Heavyweight Champion Jason Calysto, Dan Crowley, Showtime Damon Savage, Hollywood Mike Griffin, Chase Stone, and Rich Revis def. SIN [Vulture, Greg Tantalus, PWA International Champion John Wolfe, James Biamonte, Markus Krieg, and Chris Duval] in a 12-man tag team match. Savage pinned Biamonte with a knockout left hook at 7:27. (Referee: Tom Stevens)