Redemption 128: Night Four of the Iron King Tournament

[Slaine Rodrick]

Redemption 128

Iron King Night 4

August 28th

Arena VFG

Guadalajara, Mexico

***DARK MATCH***

Tag Team Scramble
Fin-Nisher and Twin-Nisher vs. Horace Jackson and Shooter Reed vs. Richard Roque and Hirooki Rajin

(The crowd was just starting to fill in as all three teams gathered in the ring. Referee Malik Demitrious rang for the bell and it was war. Horace and Shooter went right for Fin and Twin, trading fists with the team back and forth while Richard and Hirooki used this opportunity to work on a strategy. Just as Horace knocked Twin over the top rope with a big boot, Roque came smashing into his back from behind with a sledgehammer blow. Roque then hooked the big man and threw Horace on his head with a german suplex that had the crowd “OHHH!!”ing. Shooter shot Fin to the turnbuckle, but soon found Hirooki landed a leaping side kick upside his face. Hirooki then irish whipped Shooter into Fin and followed up with a dropkick to the back to sandwich the two. Roque saw that Twin was trying to get back into the ring and he stopped that from happening with a barreling clothesline that sent his back smacking against the guardrail! With Fin and Twin incapacitated, Roque pointed at Hirooki, then the turnbuckle. Roque set up Shooter for the Rock Solid, and Hirooki helped finish the move with a diving dropkick! The momentum left Shooter crashing to the mat, and Richard going for the pin.)

WINNERS: Richard Roque and Hirooki Rajin via PINFALL @ 5 minutes, 13 seconds.

***ON AIR***

(We open up to a crowd shot of Arena VFG which is packed to the brim with fans. We get a quick look at the nosebleed signs during the crowd scan. A few of them read, ‘WE MISS HELL IS WAITING’, ‘SONGBIRD ES EL MEJOR’, and ‘Vine aquí para las reglas de PRIDE!’ After that we await the usual multi colored fireworks bursts. Instead we get ‘Renegade’ by (Hed)pe, along with a PhoenixTron video that shows Rex Evans in bold granite print. The granite then breaks away to show Rex getting some good shots on Carrick and Ty in the Iron King tournament, along with highlights of his performance in the World Cup USA Qualifier. As soon as he steps through the curtain the crowd goes nuts. He’s dressed in a black ‘REX EVANS’ t-shirt with blue jeans and has a mic in his hand. He smirks to the adoring crowd, really soaking in those ‘REX!!” chants as his theme comes to a silence. He stands there atop the ramp, looking out at the sold out crowd and waiting for them to quiet down enough. Once they do, Rex speaks his piece.)

EVANS: There’s a pretty packed show tonight, so I don’t want to take up too much of your time. The reason I came out here tonight is because I have a challenge to make.

(A roar from the crowd as he looks out to the screaming humanity.)

EVANS: It was great being in Iron King and all, but my business is not done here just yet. I’m making a challenge to a certain star for the next big show, Awakening. I know you’re not here, so wherever you are, know this. I want a dream match. I want to face Aurora one on one. You’re not booked, I’m not booked. Let’s make it happen.

(The crowd roars even louder as Rex smirks. His music starts up again and he walks back through the curtains. We head to the announcer’s desk where Frederick Alpine and Johnny Rodz are looking shocked.)

ALPINE: What a way to start off Redemption! Rex Evans has called out Aurora for a one on one showdown at the Awakening! As of this moment she is not booked for the show, so this all comes down to if she’ll take the challenge or not.

RODZ: Aurora has never backed down from a challenge before, but so I don’t deny she’ll accept. Problem is she’s a busy woman nowadays, wrestling all over the world. 

ALPINE: Well hopefully we get word from her tonight on the challenge Rex proposed. Until then, let’s open up this show with two of the younger stars on this roster, James Edwards going one on one with Fenix Shields. How do you see this one going Johnny?

RODZ: I see James pissed as fuck that he lost to BAD ASS, and him wanting to do anything and everything to rebound in a big way.

ALPINE: Fenix has been on a slump and needs to get back on his feet. A win against the red hot James Edwards could do that for him.

Non-Tournament Match
James Edwards vs. Fenix Shields

(Fenix came to the ring trying to play to the crowd, with a few clueless women digging on him but a majority of the fans giving him little to no reaction. People didn’t really get off their cellphones till’ ‘My Name is Human’ by Highly Suspect started playing. James made his way to the ring all business and patiently waited in his corner for the bell to ring. Once it did James came out calm while Fenix was a little more frenetic than usual. He ran at James for an irish whip, only for James to reverse it, knee Fenix in the stomach, then drop him on his head with a Foxfire! Cheers from the crowd as James picked Fenix back up and started lighting him up with strikes, causing him to cover up in a corner. Fenix blocked one of James’s roundhouses, spinned him around for a superkick, but James caught his boot, took his back, then cracked him on his neck with the Release Reverse Exploder Suplex! “OHHH!!”s from the crowd as Fenix folded up on his neck in a daze. James saw his opportunity with Fenix sitting on the mat, so he hit the ropes then returned with the Violent Gospel! “HOLY SHIT!!” from the crowd at the thunderous smack of James’s boot against Fenix’s skull. James went to pin but referee Malik Demitrious waved him off, ruling it a knockout.)

WINNER: James Edwards via KNOCKOUT @ 3 minutes, 57 seconds.

ALPINE: James Edwards just knocked out Fenix cold with that devastating PK kick of his, the Violent Gospel! This kid is motivated tonight to send a message!

RODZ: It looks like he’s not through sending that message.

(As paramedics race to ringside to aide to the concussed Shields, James looks out to the impressed crowd. Never one for a victory lap, James Edwards calls for and receives a microphone. He leans forward, slightly hunched against the nearest section of ring ropes. Edwards motions for the cameraman to come close, and soon his intense visage fills the frame.)

James Edwards: I want one thing to be known about me: I usually don’t run away from any damn thing. That includes losses or when I do the wrong thing. Last show, I did both. I left the ring like a sore ass loser because I didn’t like the judge's decision. I should’ve shaken BAD ASS’s hand because he beat me straight up. I should’ve done it because I had nothin’ to be ashamed of. I went toe-to-toe with one of the best in MMA in his environment and almost beat em’. Hell, I’ve shown I can hang with the best this company can throw at me. I haven’t been pinned, submitted or knocked out, and I think that is sayin’ something with the roster of talent we got here. Which brings me to this, Lance Winters, we got some unfinished business.

James gives the camera an icy glare for a moment before speaking.

James Edwards: Remember the last time we fought, Lance? Remember when you stole the win from me? Remember when you ran before you got your ass handed to you? I sure as hell haven’t, and after you get done doing what you gotta do in the ring tonight, you and I are gonna have a little chat.

Edwards steps back and stares into the camera, his steely gaze cementing his intent to pay the Rising Phoenix Champion a visit.

ALPINE: Well there you have it, James is letting it be known that he wants his rematch!

RODZ: After the performance he put in against BAD ASS and Shields just now, I’d say he stands a good chance of receiving it.

The camera cuts away to an open area backstage where Kelli Torres and Rowyn Starr are seen sparring with each other. Kelli is on the offensive, throwing a flurry of punches and kicks at Rowyn. To his credit, Rowyn is doing a good job of defending, blocking, and moving against Kelli's attacks, but he's unable to find an opening in her onslaught or otherwise mount any offense or counterattacks of his own. Suddenly, everything Kelli's doing comes to a stop as she leans forward and raises a hand to her forehead. Out of instinct, Rowyn steps up to attack but immediately drops his guard and moves beside her. 

Rowyn: Kelli, what's wrong?

Kelli is breathing heavily as she quickly recovers and stands straight.

Kelli: Nothing that won't keep me out of our match. I've just been having a lot of headaches when training, that's all.

Concern quickly spreads across Rowyn's face.

Rowyn: You may have concussion symptoms. I'd better go get Vicki to take a look at you.

As Rowyn starts to move past Kelli, she quickly grabs his arm and whips him around. A glancing kick to the side of the head staggers him backwards, but he's quick to get his guard up as Kelli resumes her blitzkrieg of strikes. The effort she gives doesn't prevent her from speaking up, a testament to how comfortable she is fighting in her favored style. 

Kelli: No. I'm fine. It's going to take a lot more than headaches to stop me now. With you by my side, we'll beat those two punks and show them that they can't push us around.

Rowyn replies, but he's having a tougher time with responding, considering he's trying to make sure Kelli doesn't separate his head from his body in her zeal of combat. He's breathing heavily as well when he speaks. 

Rowyn: That's good...you've got...a good strategy...for Tony...but don't forget.....about Mason. Not sure....where his mind is....but either way....he's dangerous. Separation.....won't give you.....an edge....like it would.....against Tony. He can.....get you.....from a distance.....with his skill set.....you have to.....stick and move.....or.....

Making his point, Rowyn dances away, creating a bit more space, then explodes forward, hitting Kelli with Mason's finisher as she moves to close the distance. The practice mats on the floor serve to cushion the impact as they land hard. Both are breathing hard as Richard Roque and Hirooki Raijin walk into view at the edge of the sparring area. 

Richard: You two need to save some of that energy for Tony and Mason. Neither of you want to be gassed out before the match even starts.

Rowyn quickly stands up, reaches down, and pulls Kelli up to her feet before he claps Richard and Hirooki in turn on their shoulders. 

Rowyn: Congratulations on the dark match win earlier, you two!

Richard: Thank you, but I wouldn't be standing here victorious if it weren't for Hirooki. He deserves the credit just as much as I do.

Kelli: You both looked great out there. The two of you made a great case to be the number one contenders for the Duos Championship at Awakening.

Richard gives Kelli a quick look of surprise at her assessment before giving her an appreciative nod. 

Richard: You and Seth Black think so much alike that it's scary. I just spoke with him a few minutes ago. He informed Hirooki and I that we would challenge The Pulpit at Awakening for the Duos Championship. But there's a problem.

Backing away, Hirooki is already shaking his head emphatically. 

Hirooki: I won't fight The Pulpit! No, Richard! No! No!

Rowyn: Hirooki, calm down. This is a great opportunity for you. Seize it while you can.

Hirooki: Not against The Pulpit! Any team but them!

Richard: As you can see, Hirooki's too scared to even get in the ring with Azazel and Asger after they injured him. So that leaves me without a tag team partner.

Rowyn: If Hirooki won't go, how about Kelli? She's not going to back down against the likes of The Pulpit. She's fearless and she's got plenty of heart to match.

Kelli: I'll stand with you if you need a tag team partner for this championship match, Richard.

Richard shakes his head at Kelli. 

Richard: You'd be a great partner, but Seth Black told me he already had plans for you at Awakening. He figured you'd want the chance for some payback against Tony Tira for blindsiding you last show, so you'll be facing him in singles competition.

Kelli: I'm disappointed that I can't fight with you, Richard, but I won't turn away the chance to give Tony Tira his comeuppance for what he did to me.

Richard: Seth Black did mention that there's someone who might consider teaming with me. Someone who's fought against the Pulpit before, someone that's not afraid of them, and someone who's not been booked for a match yet at Awakening.

As he finishes, Richard, Kelli, and Hirooki all simultaneously turn their gazes to Rowyn. 

Richard: How about it, Rowyn? With Hirooki scared and with Kelli dealing with that jerk Tony Tira, why don't you and I make a run at those tag team titles?

Rowyn stands silent for a moment, and then he and Richard slap hands in the style of Arnold Schwarzenegger-Carl Weathers style from Predator. 

Rowyn: Let's do it, partner.

Kelli steps between Richard and Rowyn and the pair break the handshake. Kelli turns her gaze to Rowyn. 

Kelli: I couldn't agree with you more, partner. We've got a match to fight now. Time to get out there and show Mason and Tony what we can do.

Richard and Hirooki look on as Kelli and Rowyn walk off toward ringside. Cut to the booth.

ALPINE: That’s troubling seeing Kelli possibly coming down with concussion syndromes. She’s a good kid with a lot of promise.

RODZ: Yeah, unfortunately you live by the sword, you do die by the sword. Every kickboxer gets a concussion, it’s like being a hooker and not getting some form of VD. It’s expected.

ALPINE: I’ll take your word for it. Rowyn and Kelli take on the psychotic team of Tony Tira and Mason Daniels, next!

Non-Tournament Match

Tony Tira and Mason Daniels vs. Rowyn Starr and Kelli Torres

(Before the bell rang both teams discussed strategy in their corner. Mason demanded to start off the match with Tony having a ‘whatever’ attitude about it and stepping in. Rowyn was much the same, but a lot nicer in his approach to Kelli who let him start things off for their team. Mason smiled maniacally at Rowyn as the two rounded each other. The two went for lock ups only for Mason to catch Rowyn with a knee to the gut, followed by a high knee to the face! Rowyn hit the mat and Mason waved for him to get up. Rowyn obliged him and this time instead put his dukes up. He gave Mason a nice combo of fists, showing off some of his training with Kelli for Iron King. Mason narrowly dodged two but got hit with a solid right hook to the chin, staggering him to the corner. Rowyn ran in with a huge lariat, only for Mason to duck at the right time and back body drop Rowyn! Luckily for Rowyn he caught the top rope and landed on the apron. He caught Mason’s incoming punch and pulled him in for three hard forearms to the face! Mason staggered back, shaking off the blows. Rowyn then did a springboard forearm shot, only to be countered with a beautiful spear from Mason mid-air! “HOLY SHIT!!” chants from the fans as Mason used this opportunity to tag in Tira.

Tira came in with some hard boots to Rowyn, refusing to let him recover. Rowyn tried to go for a single leg takedown, but Tira showed off some his newly learned takedown defense as he shoved off Rowyn and cracked him with a hard uppercut to the chin! “OHHH!!”s from the crowd as Rowyn went on the defense as Tira smelled blood. Tira came raging in with fists, only for Rowyn to catch Tira with a release northern lights suplex after a duck down! He then hit Tira with a running low dropkick, keeping him from standing. Wanting to recover, Rowyn went to his corner and tagged in an eager Kelli. She hunched down by Tira, waiting for him to stand. Waving her hand eagerly as the fans stood their feet. As soon as Tira turned around, Kelli lunged in for a super kick that hit point blank!! “OHHHH!!!”s from the crowd as Tira spun then faceplanted in the mat. Kelli went for a cover but Mason was quick to boot her in the back by the two count. Malik warned Mason about interfering again as Kelli backed up from Tira.

She then came running in with a big soccer kick to the ribs, dropping Tira down to all fours! With him in prime position, Kelli went for a magistral cradle, rolling Tira up tightly near her corner! Mason tried to interfere but ate a big running punch to the skull from Rowyn, knocking him over the top rope! 

1….

2….

3!!!)

WINNER: Kelli Torres and Rowyn Starr via PINFALL @ 7 minutes, 59 seconds.

ALPINE: Kelli with a big win over Tony Tira! Tira is not liking this result one bit!

RODZ: I wouldn’t expect him to. Dude needs to work on his ground game big time.

(Tony Tira is clearly pissed after the match, stomping a bit in the ring with his frustration and not taking too kindly to the look Mason Daniels gives him after losing to a roll up of all things at his size. Kelli of course is pleased and she and Rowyn high five, and Tony loses his shit, stomping up and spinning Torres around before he levels her with a knockout punch to the jaw! She collapses in a heap at Rowyn’s feet as Tira smirks and bails the ring before Rowyn can kick him in the face. Rowyn crouches down to check on Kelli as Richard Roque and Hirooki Rajin run down the ramp from the back. Mason bails the ring as he sees them coming and gives them a wide berth as they slide into the ring, a couple of medics quickly following to help aide Kelli as Rowyn holds her hand. Cut to the back where Jade watches on a monitor as Kelli once again gets her clock cleaned, this time by Tira. She cheers on with sheer joy as she watches the destruction unfold on camera.)

Jade: Ooh no, look at poor little old Kelli. Taking one L after another. And she thinks that she is the better wrestler. What a fucking joke. 

(Jade quickly turns off the monitor.)

Jade: Now that I have had my fun, it is time to get down to business. Tonight I will set foot in the ring with a slightly more formidable force; and I mean slightly. Nina, Chris, and Mandi are just another set of jokes inside this company. They parade around acting as if they are some of the best around; but as it stands now, my friends are the only ones amung us who hold championship gold. 

(The boos from the crowd can be heard all the way in the backstage area where Jade is standing.)

Jade: Now, they can't possibly think they are good enough to actually compete with us. Asger and Azazel are the most dominant force this business has ever seen and I am the best up and coming wrestler in the World. Tonight, we are going to tear you all apart and show the entire World just how dangerous we are. You see, we are on the same page and we work well together. You three on the other hand, not so much. You may all want to destroy us, but you will all be fighting for your turn. There is no fighting between my friends and I, and we will prevail in destroying you tonight. 

(Jade just smiles as she walks away.)

ALPINE: What a sick woman. She truly takes after the man who trained her in Mason Daniels.

RODZ: I never thought I would say this, but Mason has made a great trainer. I thought he was all garbage wrestling, but I like most people forgot about how this guy is good at psychology.

ALPINE: He is, but you have to look at who his students are facing. You got the former Duos Champions and a top contender like Nina. As good as the Pulpit are aligned, they will most certainly be tested tonight.

RODZ: I don’t think they would have it any other way.

Non-Tournament Match

Six Person Tag Team Match

The Pulpit (Jade, Asger (c) and Azazel (c)) vs. Nina Stokes, Chris Andrew, and Mandi Andrew

(Nina offered to start off the match for their team, with Azazel agreeing to be the first for his team. The bell rung and Azazel started off the match by mocking Nina and laughing at her, then flexing and showing off his physique. Nina rolled her eyes and looked out to the crowd. That’s when Azazel surprised her with a push to the forehead. This got Nina’s attention, who told him to try that again. He did and Nina took the much bigger man up and over with a flying armbar! The crowd cheered as Azazel found his large arm getting torqued in the center of the ring. Not one to let her partner tap, Jade flew into the ring with a springboard guillotine leg drop on Nina, getting her to release! Malik warned Jade about interfering as Nina came to a stand. Jade looked to Asger then distracted Malik with a bunch of yelling, allowing the two to attack Nina with a double clothesline! She ducked, ran to the ropes, then hit both men with a split dropkick! This gave her the opportunity to tag in Mandi to some cheers from the crowd.

Mandi went to work on Azazel, smashing him with grounded forearms to the face as Malik ushered Asger and Jade back to their corner. She then hit the ropes and returned with a solid springboard moonsault, followed by a standing moonsault for the pinfall! Azazel broke out at two by power pressing Mandi off of him. He then came to a stand and looked for a tag, only for Mandi to dropkick him in the back! Unfortunately that knocked him into his corner, where Asger was able to tag himself in. As slow as he is, he was able to catch Mandi as she stood with a running lariat! The solid blow sent her flying in a 180 spin then crashing on the canvas. With Azazel still in the ring, he followed up by picking up Mandi. He then threw Mandi into Asger, who catches her with a rotating belly to belly suplex! But before he threw her back, Azazel punched her in the spine, getting “OHHH!!”s from the crowd before she crashed to the canvas! Nina is screaming for Malik to get some order in the ring, and he did as he warned Azazel to return to his corner. Asger then picked up Mandi and hooked her. In a great display of strength he beil tossed her across the ring, landing right in front of his corner! As she lay on the mat prone, Asger used her body as a stepping stone to tag in Jade!

Jade’s tag in was met with boos as made use of a good situation. With Mandi so close, she hit the top rope and landed on Mandi with the Jade Strike! She went for the cover as Azazel held down Mandi’s legs and Azazel blocked off Nina and Chris from breaking the count!

1…

2….

3!!!)

WINNERS: The Pulpit via PINFALL @ 9 minutes, 02 seconds.

ALPINE: What a despicable strategy to use against Mandi Andrew!

RODZ: Despicable but smart. Isolate Mandi and keep that monster Nina away from the ring. Well executed.

ALPINE: That may be, but it looks like Mason is here to break up their celebration!

(Mason comes rushing down to the ring, bat in hand, as he quickly slides in. As he does, The Pulpit quickly exits and flees the area. He begins to march around the ring, an angry look on his face as he then turns his attention to Nina. There is an angry look on her face as she rushes forward, but Mason connects with his favorite weapon. He swings a few more times, causing Nina to collapse to the mat. As she does, Mandi and Chris rush in to save the day, but a few swings of the bat, and he sends them both back to the outside of the ring. Mason takes a few deep breaths as he takes everything in; he then grabs a microphone from a ring hand and looks down at Nina.)

Mason: Nina, this didn't have to be a thing. Things could have been quite perfect between us. You see, we have a common enemy in The Pulpit. We could have worked together to take them down, but you let your ego get in the way. You made this personal, and now you have me as an enemy. You wanted to make things Hardcore; fine, we can get Hardcore, Nina. So at Awakening, let's make it you and me. We will set foot in this ring and we will go until one person has just had too much punishment. Well, we will go until I am done with you, because when we meet, I am going to fucking kill you bitch! 

(Mason spikes down the mic and leaves the ring as the crowd boos their heads off. Cameras cut back to catch Frisky D seated on a bench in her locker room, leaning forward to finish lacing up her boots. After catching sight of the cameras, she stops, sits up and gives a short wave.)

FRISKY D: Hey guys, sup.!

(The Canadian lets out a light sigh.)

FRISKY D: Not gonna lie, been kind of a rough stretch for me. Losing to Frankie in Iron King after some of my other big setbacks, that had me pretty pissed for a while after, not gonna lie.

(She gives a short nod.)

FRISKY D: Not even that I lost --which don’t get me wrong, losing sucks-- but the whole circumstance surrounding it. Like, The Collective were talking like I was overlooking him or not taking him seriously. Nah, if anything I was too worried that he was trying to get one over on me talking about the injuries and psyched myself out. I was pretty honest that I wasn’t exactly in a situation where I knew what I was doing. So it kind of sucks to me that there can be some kind of narrative around it now that like, maybe I wasn’t taking shit seriously enough or whatever. Nah, I know I can seem pretty laid back, but I wasn’t good enough-- that’s all there is to it.

(Frisky shakes her head.)

FRISKY D: I broke the dude’s arm which wasn’t my intention, but still, I’m pretty pissed at myself for managing to wreck his arm and not get him to submit. Which all credit to him, but had me feeling like I blew it. But, l can’t dwell on that too much, even though I want to. I’ve had setbacks before that I’ve come back better the next time I’ve faced that person, so I’ve gotta keep pushing forward.

(She shoots a thumbs up.)

FRISKY D: I couldn’t push forward for a bit, they had me taking some time off to heal up, which I guess logically again I might’ve needed after the past few months but again is a bit of a hit to the pride. Like, you always wanna be able to fight through it and keep going out there. You don’t wanna be fragile or anything like that, doing what we do, being cut from this cloth. But it is what it is, and I finally get to get back at it, which is pretty sweet. Speaking of people I’ve faced before--

(A deep breath and short exhale.)

FRISKY D: Man, Maz has been a real thorn in my buttcheek, huh? Whether it was bashing my head in at UTCL, or in our tag matches, or butting into my whole deal with Nina in the tower. Hasn’t been good times. So I’m actually pretty pumped up about that, because I’ve got a target to get some of this frustration out on that I feel like … is justified in receiving it. I mean he’s not responsible for my specific recent frustrations, but we’ve got legit beef.

(She pauses, and adjusts her hat brim before looking straight ahead again.)

FRISKY D: And I like to think that while I’m pretty chill, if you push me, I’ll get … uh trying not to make a ‘frisky’ pun here, but you et my point. I’ll get real with you, know what I’m saying? So I don’t know if it’s the right strategic play, or maybe I should be taking a more tactical approach with a dangerous dude, but screw it. That’s not what I’m good at anyways, so I’m gonna do what feels right. And what feels right is going apeshit on him. So I think I’m gonna do that; should be a good time.

(With that, she flashes a peace sign and we cut to commercial.)

"And the train doesn't stop. The heat is still hot on this years best tournament. Iron King Tournament. But don't you want to feel what it's like to be King of the throne? Say no more! Go grab Ohno~Cola, including our "Iron King" inspired drink as it even features the past Iron King Winner's on select cans."

(Nakamura holds a can up, holding a can featuring former Iron King and Phoenix Champion, Cassius Reed with his trademark 'fro and grand smile.)

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(Just as he was going to finish, there came some guy in a singlet, picking him up and suplexing him down to the floor before picking up the now bent can of Ohno Cola "Iron King Edition" and opening it to down it with a refreshing take to end the commercial.)

[Slaine Rodrick]

(The cameras zip over the crowd around the ringside area as people mug for the camera and then they fade out to fade back in, the setting clearly the parking garage of the Arena VFG. There they find the lanky form of Masaru Inoue, dressed plainly in sleek layered black clothing tonight, his eyes active as he watches Olly swoop this way and that. He’s got a tablet set on the hood of a rare 1965 Chevrolet Corvette Mako Shark, and seems fairly tranquilo as he speaks to his tag team partner Aurora on FaceTime.)

MASARU INOUE: Ooh did you hear, that naughty man Rex Evans, he made a little challenge to you, Lady Rori! This could be a lot of fun. Especially considering, things. It will be entertaining and enjoyable. More than I can say with this match I got with Frisky tonight. Ugh, I know, Rori. She's alright, I guess. She's smart. She knows better than to disrespect me or act a fucking fool and try to mock me. She doesn't carry allies to fight her battles. Those are some positives.

(Olly screeches and zips through as Aurora’s delicate laugh is heard and her image shakes her head slightly before she grins at Masaru.)

AURORA: Oh I heard, I’ve gotten a rush of messages about it too. I mean really, what else is there to say but I accept? He’s an interesting one, but we’ve never gotten that one on one match. One more off my list… so of course you know I will.

(A loud reaction of the fans in attendance lets them both know this is being taped and Masaru cackles with glee before he calms to a mere smirk.)

MASARU: Of course I knew you would. He doesn’t know the hell that’s waiting for him but that’s fine…

(The pair share a grin at his turn of phrase before Aurora nods.)

AURORA: Be wary tonight, Frisky is not just lucky with her reversals, she’s learning quickly and it won’t be long before she really breaks on the scene. We both know it, I’m just not sure if she does. Call me back after you’re all done.

(Masaru nods with a smile as he closes the call and the cameras leave him in the parking garage as they go to the ringside area where they end up focusing on the commentary team.)

ALPINE: And there we have it, Aurora accepts the challenge laid down by Rex Evans!

RODZ: Wow I’m just tingling all over, what a clash of titans so to speak this one is going to be!

ALPINE: Speaking of clash of the titans, we have two of the best in Phoenix going at it up next. The number one contender to the Rebirth Championship, Frisky D. faces off one on one against one of the toughest men to ever grace Phoenix Wrestling, Masaru Inoue.

RODZ: She’s pissed off from getting her ass kicked back to back, and she wants REVENGE!

Non-Tournament Match
Masaru Inoue vs. Frisky D.

(Masaru came to the ring to some loud boos, the crowd in Mexico hating the awesome villain. He rewarded them with a red mist spit into the air, then made his way to the ring with a joker smile. ‘Steak Knives and Razor Blades’ hit, and the crowd changed their tune for Frisky D. She came out rapping along to her own lyrics, the crowd bouncing with her as she slapped a few fans hands. She slid into the rip and ripped off her hoodie. Instantly she threw it in the face of the running Masaru Inoue, then hit with a dropkick in the chest that drove him into the corner! The bell rang as Frisky took over with a corner cannonball, leaving Masaru stumbling out of the corner, still blinded by the hoodie. Frisky helped him to the mat with a running bulldog, then hit him with some moonsault double knees to the chest! She went for the pin but referee Malik Demitrious made her break it up being Masaru was still covered up by the hoodie. She gave Maz space per Demitrious’s orders, allowing him to angrily throw off the hoodie and get to his feet.

An angry Maz is a motivated Maz, and he came charging at Frisky with a stiff running leg kick that chopped her leg right out. Luckily for Frisky she has quite the balance and kept her footing. Maz chopped at her again, aiming for that left inside ankle and hitting it hard to the “OHHH!!”s of the crowd. Frisky tried to keep on going but now was favoring that sore leg. Maz faked for a third kick to the same region, then changed direction on it last minute and slapped her in the face with a question mark kick!! “OHHH!!”s from the crowd at the flashy move as Frisky went stumbling, and Maz sank his teeth right in. He dove in from the back with a huge liver kick, hitting just the tip but doing enough to drop Frisky. He attempted to hook her for a fisherman buster on the way up but she fought back with some punches to the stomach, a sitout jawbreaker, then a snap hurricanrana! The combo left the crowd clapping as she backed off from Maz and hunched down. Just as she was about to crash into him with a high impact maneuver, he slid to the outside and took a breather. Malik started a count as he walked around the ring.

That walk was cut short as he approached the entrance ramp side. Out through the curtains came Jason Cashe to the cheers of the crowd. He started to mock Masaru at the top of the ramp with Great Muta poses, getting Maz to hold himself back from attacking Jason. With a countout approaching, Masaru slid into the ring. Frisky wouldn’t let him breathe as she caught him with a springboard triangle armbar! Masaru flipped to the ground from the beautiful move as Frisky torqued back with all her might, looking for a rare submission. Masaru is ever the ring general though and worked his legs towards the ropes, looking for that rope break. With plenty of hard work and will he’s able to land his left leg on the bottom rope, but Cashe is there just as quickly to shoot it right off! Cashe goes to whistling with his back turned as Malik investigates. Masaru made his way to the bottom rope again, this time barely getting the rope break. Once again Cashe shoved his leg off, ruining all of Maz’s hard work before turning around and acting like nothing happened. With his oxygen running low and his body tired out, Maz is left with no choice but to pass out.)

WINNER: Frisky D via SUBMISSION @ 10 minutes, 45 seconds.

ALPINE: Frisky D just subbed one of the toughest bastards on this roster! Looks like she wanted a little payback after what Maz did to her in the Phoenix Roulette match.

RODZ: You can’t blame her. Maz fucked her shit up in that match.

(Frisky celebrates a rare submission victory as Cashe laughs his ass off on the way to the back. Malik goes to aide Masaru but he wakes up after five seconds in a shock. He doesn’t even care about Frisky winning, all that matters is him getting his hands on Cashe. He slides out of the ring before Malik can check on him, stomping his way to the back. We cut to JFC walking down the hallway backstage. He’s looking nice and snazzy, as if he’s about to walk down the red carpet. He has on his signature grey suit and black tie, his hair short on the sides, a little longer on top and combed to the side. He stops and leans his back against the wall, propping a leg up against it as he turns to speak to the camera and PW fans.)

Jackson Felix Coltrane: What a surreal feeling going through my body right now. When I decided to get into professional wrestling earlier this year, I went with a federation that was in my backyard. I knew it was well established. I knew it had been around for years. I knew that some of the top wrestling talent wrestled here. I knew what I was getting myself into. I did not know, however, that I would get an opportunity at a title so soon in my career.

[Jackson looks down the hallway briefly before he turns back to the camera and lets out a sigh, shaking his head.]

JFC: Some people will say I don’t deserve this title shot. They say the talent I faced is inferior, that I haven’t proven myself yet. While the talent I faced isn’t the top-notch talent in the company, no one can say I don’t deserve this. No one can take this away from me. In my short time here, I’ve had my head down and I’ve gone to work every day with the goal of getting better. I know I’m still new to this whole thing. I know there are kinks to iron out. But no one can take away what I have done. I’ve taken advantage of the opportunities that were laid out before me. I defeated five other men to earn this title shot opportunity. And when it comes to Lance Winters, I’m going to do my best to take advantage of that opportunity and beat him for the Rising Phoenix Championship.

[Jackson pushes off the wall and continues walking down the hallway, passing by some backstage staff.]

JFC: I believe I’ve made it pretty clear my plans here in Phoenix Wrestling. But in case Lance Winters has forgotten I’ll remind him now. My first goal is to win gold. My second goal is beat down on these over-hyped, egotistical, pissed at the world assholes that are employed by Phoenix Wrestling. With this title shot, I have the opportunity to hit two birds with one stone and accomplish both my goals, then move on to even greater heights. But first things first. While Lance Winter’s is a great wrestler in the ring, he no longer deserves to hold the Phoenix Rising Championship. Certainly not after what he did in Night Three of the Iron King Tournament. He had a legitimate shot to win his match and move to the next round of the tournament, who knows, possibly win it, but he took the easy way out. He went and got himself disqualified from his match, repeatedly poking Ernest Caudwell’s eye and fish hooking him at the end. That is not how a champion should act. He disgraces that belt and it’s time that its found a new owner.

[Jackson finds a picnic table at a staff break area and take a seat on the table, his feet on the bench.]

JFC: I want to rise in this company. I want to work my way to the top. It seems Lance would like to head in the other direction and that is fine with me. I think it is time for him to lose his belt. He thinks I’ll be an easy kill, I’m sure. Knowing his type of personality, he will be overlooking me. But I have nothing to lose in this match. If I lose, I pick up the pieces and start over again, and I do so with even more determination. If Lance loses, it seems everything he has built will come crumbling down to the ground, all because he was too ignorant to know any better.

[Jackson smiles and he laces his fingers together in front of him.]

JFC: I’m psyched for this match Lance. I’m psyched to show you I can hang with you in that ring despite being new to professional wrestling. You’re going to be surprised. But I have a question for you Lance, how are you going to redeem yourself? Because I’m ready for you. Sure, I’ll be your Ego Killer. My pleasure.

(Jackson Felix Coltrane walks towards the entrance to the ringside area when The Pulpit comes out of nowhere and attacks him. Asger and Azazel make quick work of him as they beat him into the ground. Jackson looks up to see who his attackers are, and as he does, Jade walks up and punts his head with a swift kick. He collapses down to the ground as Jade leans down, Asger and Azazel lifting his head so he can see her.)

Jade: You don't deserve this match you fucking piece of garbage.

(She then slaps him hard across the face as her friends let go of him. Jackson collapses to the ground once more as The Pulpit makes their way out of the area. Cut to an appalled Alpine ringside.)

ALPINE: OH COME ON THAT’S COMPLETELY UNNECESSARY!! Let the poor guy have his title match!

RODZ: Well this certainly changes the dynamic of this match. JFC has the odds stacked heavily against him now.

Non-Tournament Match
Rising Phoenix Championship
Lance Winters (c) vs. Jackson Felix Coltrane

(JFC’s music played, but no one comes out. They cue for his theme again, once again no one comes out. We cut to a shot of paramedics in the back who are aiding to JFC, who is really hurting after that punt kick to the face. Paramedics checked his vision as he looked to be in a slumped daze. Seeing this got referee Malik Demitrious to lean over the top rope and give Lenne Hardt instructions. Soon after she got on the mic.)

HARDT: The following match has been declared a No Contest!!

RESULT: NO CONTEST

(Boos from the crowd at Jade robbing them of a potentially good match. Then just to intensify things Lance revved up his motorcycle and rode to ringside with a mic in hand. Those boos picked up a notch as he got off his bike with the Rising Phoenix Championship draped over his shoulder. He took the ring and made his way to the center, chuckling a bit at JFC’s misfortune.)

LANCE: It’s a good thing JFC got his ass kicked by a chick before he came out here, as he can’t handle BIG DADDY WINTERS!!!

(Boos from the crowd as Lance shook his head to the plebian fans with a smirk. Soon there are cheers though as a spotlight hits the ramp. The dust has barely settled in the ring before James Edwards, now dressed in his street clothes, breaks through the curtains, refusing to cede the spotlight to Lance Winters. He stops at the top of the ramp and produces a microphone from his pants pockets.)

James Edwards: Time’s up, asshole.

An angry Winters mouths off at James getting ready to talk into his mic. Before he can utter a word James cuts him off.

James Edwards: Oh no, this my time to talk. Keep that big mouth shut and hear what I have to say.

Looking angry but amused, Lance lets him have the floor.

James Edwards: Like I was sayin’, time’s up, Lance. No more runnin’. No more triple threat matches you can hide in. No more keepin’ me outta the title picture, especially since you never beat me, to begin with. I deserve another shot at you. I deserve a one-on-one fight. I deserve ten minutes to show the world just how damn good I am.

The champion adjust the Rising Phoenix Championship on his shoulder and gives Edwards a mocking smirk.

James Edwards: Aight’. You wanna give me that look. You honestly think you’re better than me?

Winters mouths he thinks he is with a laugh.

James Edwards: Okay, then stop being a pussy, put the belt on the line and don’t run like a bitch the first time one of my kicks cracks your bones. Deal?

(The Reapers Prez is laughing so hard you just about half expected him to laugh up a long or something as he paced in the ring.)

LANCE WINTERS: OOOOHHHHHHH BBOOOYYYY. I sureee hope you AIN’T SERIOUS there boy cause I SWEAR!

(He laughs more.)

LANCE WINTERS: You should GO ON TOUR with this kind of MATERIAL I swear. You could make a real….KILLING...BAHAHAHAAHAHAAHA!!!!

(Prez laughs some more and wipes away a couple tears. )

LANCE WINTERS: Oh Jamesy Boy….You crack me up, you know that?

(Lance shakes his head chuckling a little.)

LANCE WINTERS: You know WHAT THOUGH? I like you James. I really do. Something ABOUT YOU, you know? You got the CUTE AND INNOCENT vibe going on. You know that MYSTERIOUS, “I’M NOT A KILLER BUT DON’T PUSH ME” vibe. I bet you’re a real stickler with the LADIES HUH? Even though you might strike out once or twice you still have that same CONFIDENCE. Yeah….Yeah I like that in a man.

(Winters playfully winks at Edwards and licks his lips.)

LANCE WINTERS: I tell you what….I SAID IT A FEW WEEKS AGO, I’d give you a shot. If you REALLY WANT TO LOSE to me AGAIN. I’ll give you a chance. I mean look….OUT OF ALL THE PATHETIC PUKES I HAD to SCRAPE OFF MY BOOT lately, you’ve been the BEST OF THE WORSE of em. So why not? CAN’T BE THAT BAD.

(Lance holds up his hands.)

LANCE WINTERS: This time CAN YOU REMEMBER TO bring the rubbers though? I don’t wanna be the ONE SPENDING MY HARD EARNED money on them when I’m not even the ONE WHO HAS THE STIFFY for this her BUCK’A’ROO.

(Lance stares down at Edwards seriously now and nods.)

LANCE WINTERS: Looks like you’ve got a date with the Reaper kid. See you soon.

(Lance drops his mic and waves at him, leaving James standing there, staring him down.)


ALPINE: James looks motivated. Lance better be careful!

RODZ: That's the 2 time HKW World Champion Alpo. It'd take more than James Edwards for him to drop that grin.

ALPINE: We shall see at the Awakening. Speaking of, one of these two men in the next fight will move onto the Iron King semi-finals at the Awakening. Who you got Freddy?

RODZ: Really hard pick. I know BAD ASS has the belt and all, but Sandy has been an impressive beast in this tournament. It's truly a coin flip.

ALPINE: And here we go folks, PRIDE rules! 

IRON KING ROUND 3
QUARTER-FINALS
Pride FC Rules

(All matches featuring champions are non-title)

BAD ASS © vs. Sandy Makel

(First to make his way out to the ring was Sandy Makel, along with the coach and head trainer of Generation Fight MMA. Sandy got a favorable reaction from the crowd as ‘Animal Style’ by Billy Clyro played through the PA. Fans reached out to him but the vet was all business as he made his way down to ringside. He walked up the steps, took a deep breath, and headed to his corner. He bounced on his feet, keeping his blood flowing as his team raised up their ‘Generation Fight MMA’ banner behind him. Soon after his theme ended, and was replaced by ‘Headstrong’ by Trapt. Those cheers continued for BAD ASS who came to the ring pumped and in a hurry. His training partners Jason Jackson and Megan Treamon struggled to keep up with him as he blew by the fans and ran up the steps. He ripped off his Slaughtahouse hoodie and threw it into the leaping sea of Mexican fans. He then hunched down low as the ‘SLAUGHTAHOUSE OAHU’ banner hug high above his head. His theme ended, and referee Oz Oxford Jr. checked with both competitors. With both ready to go, he rang for the bell.)

DING DING DING!!!

(BAD ASS started off the pace with a fast start, pegging Sandy Makel in the face with some hard shots and getting him to cover up. Sandy weathered the storm and body locked BAD ASS against the ropes. From there he greco roman locked with BAD ASS and started stomping away at his feet. BAD ASS wasn’t too keen to be in that position and muscled his way out. Sandy was ready to greet him with some leg kicks, to which BAD ASS checked them all and made Sandy back up with a spinning backfist attempt. Sandy went for a running hook to the body but BAD ASS absorbed the shot and pulled in Sandy for a muay thai clinch, taking a moment to breathe from that hard body shot. Sandy made him pay for it though as he bullrushed BAD ASS against the ropes with a double leg, then lifted him up high for a rotating slam! Quickly BAD ASS scampered to his feet, favoring his lower back but not about to let Sandy hold him down. Sandy kept up the pace with some peppering jabs to the head and body, to which BAD ASS showed off his footwork and outmaneuvered half of the attempts. BAD ASS then caught Sandy with a hard body kick as he went for an uppercut, halting him and allowing BAD ASS to follow up with a series of jabs that pop back Sandy’s head! BAD ASS got a little too cocky and went for a flying knee, only for Sandy to catch him from the side and once again, slam BAD ASS to the mat! This time he was able to work his way into side control and start hammering some knees to the body. Knee after knee landed to the right side of BAD ASS, turning it beet red. However BAD ASS is able to turn his hips and readjust, allowing him to get in butterfly guard and shoot Sandy off at the hips. With Sandy lingering over him, the vet made use of the rules and started stomping away at BAD ASS! Two solid shots him him in the ribs and stomach, with several other hitting mat. However it’s that one loose one that gets caught, allowing BAD ASS to snake up his leg and lock on for an inverted heel hook! Sandy tried to get out of the quicksand but a kick to Sandy’s free ankle sent him to the mat, allowing BAD ASS to lock on the submission. Luckily for Sandy, the bell rings, signaling the end to the first ten minute round. Both fighters retreat to their corners with BAD ASS’s right side glowing red.

In the corners Gen Fight MMA are giving their guy Sandy solid advice, to watch his cardio and pick his moves wisely in this last round. Jason on the other hand is screaming at BAD ASS to stop being so reckless and cocky and just end this. BAD ASS nods and the two walk out of their corners. BAD ASS wincing in pain from the side shots, and Sandy breathing deep from all the wrestling attempts.

Round two starts and BAD ASS does his best to keep Sandy from getting close. The two circle each other, with Sandy trying to close the distance with some jabs and leg kicks. BAD ASS isn’t letting him get too close and keeps him away with leg kicks and a few teeps. The third teep attempt nearly gets caught, causing BAD ASS to wag his finger at Sandy. Sandy slowly pressures BAD ASS to a corner, pawing away at jabs before going in for a monstrous takedown. However he eats a hard knee coming in that busts him open on the forehead!! “OHHH!!”s from the crowd as Sandy dropped to his knees, putting him in a prime position for more knees from BAD ASS. Sandy isn’t one to give up so easily though and launched up to his feet, once again throwing up BAD ASS, this time crashing him to the mat with a belly to belly variation! Blood is dripping on BAD ASS’s face as Sandy lay in side control, heavily dazed from that knee shot. BAD ASS tried to roll his body out but Sandy kept on him, peppering him with body shots so that the ref wouldn’t step in. Just then the bell rang, putting an official end to this contest. Sandy rose to his feet with a bit of a wobble, but was still coherent enough to help BAD ASS to his feet. The two hugged each other right away, glad to be done with such a war. The two men’s teams then gathered in the ring and cheered them on as we awaited the final word. Once Lenne entered the ring, BAD ASS and Sandy stood side by side with Oz in the middle.)

HARDT: After fifteen minutes we’ve reached the conclusion of this fight, and will now go to judges’s scorecards! All three judges score the contest 29-28, for your winner by unanimous decision…..BBBAAAAAAAADDDDDD AAAAASSSSSSSSSSSSSS!!!

WINNER: BAD ASS via UNANIMOUS DECISION @ 15 Minutes.

ALPINE: Sandy was looking on the road to taking this match, but I feel the heel hook and knee shot from BAD ASS really weighed in his favor.

RODZ: PRIDE rules means they base the result on the entire contest, not rounds. Did Sandy rape BAD ASS those first ten minutes? Yes. But did he cause more damage? Unfortunately not, so BAD ASS takes this.

ALPINE: I don’t know how many more of these wars BAD ASS can take. He has a fight in Japan in three days.

RODZ: No rest for the wicked.

(Sandy is a man and shakes BAD ASS’s hand with his free hand while soaking up the blood with his other. The two embrace again before we head to the back. Chris and Mandi Andrew are walking out from Nina’s locker room, talking quietly between themselves. They are stopped by Kiko who is waiting for them.)

Kiko: Guys I was wondering if I could get a few moments of your time.

Mandi: Sure, just make it quick.

Kiko: Rowyn Starr and Richard Roque have expressed interest in competing for the Duos titles, how do you feel about it?

Chris: We welcome the challenge.

Mandi: We invite the challenge really. The two work hard, and won’t try to cheap shot us.

Chris: Unlike most teams, we can trust Richard, and Rowyn. They won’t be like the other teams

Mandi: However though, if they think they are taking those belts, they can think again. We are taking back what’s ours.

Chris: We hope all the other teams hear that, and understand it well.

Kiko: Since you just came from her locker room, is Nina okay?

Mandi: She is, but be cautious. She is not in a good mood.

(Chris, and Mandi walk away, as Kiko turns her attention to the locker room door. A wooden door has the name STOKES posted on it. It’s slightly ajar, allowing a little bit of light to seep into the hallway. Phoenix Wrestling Corespondent, Kiko Hirayama, steps into the scene. She lightly knocks on the door. No one says a word. Kiko knocks once more. No answer. Kikio knocks one last time. This time, she doesn’t wait for a response; she simply slinks her way into the locker room. Nina Stokes is sitting with her back towards the door. The camera zooms on her back. The mostly healed indents and remnants of that barbed wire shot from a few weeks ago are visible.)

KIKO HIRAYAMA: Err, Nina?

(Nina finally turns around in her seat and spots Kiko. While her demeanor is fairly calm, she gives off an aggressive aura.)

NINA STOKES: My bad. Was thinking about something. What’s going on?

KIKO HIRAYAMA: I was just hoping to get a moment of your time, if that’s okay?

(Nina nodded her head.)

NINA STOKES: Fire away.

(Kiko takes a moment settle her nerves before she continues.)

KIKO HIRAYAMA: Well, tonight you get the chance to team with Chris and Mandi Andrew to take on The Pulpit. Me and the rest of the fans at home were wondering your thoughts going into this match?

(Nina takes a second before she answers.)

NINA STOKES: Honestly Kiko, there’s not much left for me to say. Jade. Asger. Azazel. Mason. They’ve been testing my patience for a couple of months. And when my patience runs out? Well, you get what’s going to transpire this evening. Chris? Mandi? And myself? We’re going to work as a well-oiled machine and bring the fight to them. And specifically when I’m in the ring? The three of them are going to get the ever-loving shit beat out of them. They’ll be outwrestled. Outworked. Outclassed.

(Kiko was a taken aback by her words, just a little. She takes a breath in hopes of composing herself.)

KIKO HIRAYAMA: Speaking of Mason, you two have been going back and forth for a while. You mind giving me your thoughts on that situation?

(Nina nods her head.)

NINA STOKES: You know, I’ve been in this sport for a few years. I’ve learned a couple of lessons over the years. You know, student of the game and all. One of the lessons I learned? How to spot a bullshitter. Mason Daniels? He’s a candidate for Bullshitter MVP…

(She shakes her head.)

NINA STOKES: Mason wants me to fear him because of his words—I could honestly care less about what he says. Mason wants me to be intimidated by how tough he thinks he is. No thanks. I’ve been fighting monsters and demons my entire career. I know what true beast looks like, and it’s not you. Mason wants me to acknowledge and respect the fact that he was nearly left for dead in the ring once. I can’t respect that. Why? Because based upon your words and actions, you haven’t learned shit from that experience. And if that’s the case, what was the fucking point, Mason?

(She shakes her head.)

NINA STOKES: That’s the issue with you Mason, you don’t think. You get involved with someone’s match, then you should expect some consequences. That’s logic, Mason. I don’t care what your intentions were. I don’t care what you were trying to do. You wobbled your ass into my match? That was a mistake. It’s time you paid for that mistake.

(Nina pauses for a second.)

NINA STOKES: At Awakening, it’s going to be you and me in a hardcore match. And this isn’t going to be the standard chair swing affair that everyone is used to. Naw. This match is gonna’ get bloody, and it’s gonna’ get violent. Hell, maybe you’ll have another near death experience Mason. And maybe this time, you WON’T be able to make a full recovery.

(There’s another pause.)

NINA STOKES: That would tragic, wouldn’t? But it would fitting. You can’t expect things to change when you don’t learn, yeah?

(Nina runs her fingers through her hair.)

NINA STOKES: That’s all I got, Kiko.

(With that, the camera fades out.)

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[Slaine Rodrick]

Rising Phoenix Championship
Lance Winters ^(c) vs. James Edwards

Duos Championships
THREE-WAY DANCE
"The Pulpit" (Asger ^© and Azazel ^©) vs. Chris and Mandi Andrew vs. "Team Darkstar" (Rowyn Starr and Richard Roque)

Aurora vs. Rex Evans

Hardcore Match
Mason Daniels vs. Nina Stokes

Tony Tira vs. Kelli Torres

Jade vs. Jackson Felix Coltrane

The Semi-Finals and Finals of the Iron King Tournament

Plus much more!

ALPINE: Up next we have one of the newest top free agents signings in Jason Cashe taking on a man that is no stranger to PW. Former PW World Tag Team Champion and genuine bad ass, Conor Blackburn. How do you see this fight going Johnny?

RODZ: Well the rules really favor a more wild, unchained wrestler like Jason Cashe. He’s known for his innovative offense, but will he be able to use much of that offense against a cold, calculated killer like Conor? That remains to be seen. Conor has been destroying everyone put before him.

ALPINE: That he has. Cashe better hope he can come up with a strategy for Conor or he might just be another victim.

Jason Cashe vs. Conor Blackburn

(The fans were sitting there restless, waiting for the next match. They saw Lenne take the ring for introductions, but no music played. All of a sudden a wild caveman named Jason Cashe came ripping through the curtain, instantly getting some cheers from the Mexican crowd. He slapped a few fan hands then ran to the ring holding a water bottle, a towel, and a stool. He then took his corner and placed the stool down, sitting on it. He stared at the entranceway, waiting for his opponent’s music to hit. ‘Genesis’ by Justice hit over the PA, bringing on a loud amount of boos, but also some cheers from the crowd for his dominating performance last round. Conor walked down with Blackburn Combat team completely no nonsense. Not bothering with a staredown, not bothering with the attention of the fans. This was just business. He walked up the steps and took his corner, staring at the mat as his team gave him instructions. The ‘Blackburn Combat’ banner went up above his head as Lenne finished introductions. With both fighters in the ring, Oz signaled to them and rang for the bell.)

DING DING DING!!

(Cashe ran across the ring like a madman, aiming for a diving cannonball to the knees on Conor. Conor easily sidestepped then greeted Cashe with some soccer kicks to the face and chest on his way up! Cashe caught one flush in the jaw, but was able to grab Conor’s free leg, then do a low dropkick on his other, knocking him to the mat! Conor immediately went for a leg lock, but Cashe slithered out and started stomping down on Conor’s midsection. Conor went from sub offense to upkick mode, aiming to use those long legs to smash in Cashe’s teeth. Or what’s left of them. Cashe dodged a few upkick fakes, then sprung off the nearest ropes for a mushroom stomp to Conor’s chest! “OHHH!!!”s from the crowd as Conor was able to roll up and get to his feet, only to be met with a wild running knee to the face! However Conor was quick enough to dodge the knee and score a double leg takedown, dragging Cashe to the mat. From there Conor tried to move into full mount but Cashe was still full of fight, getting a strange form of butterfly guard before shooting Conor off by the hips. Conor hovered above, looking for a diving punch. Jason got his legs up for upkicks, rotating them like he was riding a bicycle and yelling “C’MON!!” Conor eventually just backed up and let Oz stand him up, then restart the fight. Jason tried his kung fu tiger form on Conor, who looked mildly amused by his silly attempt to fight with an unpractical style. Right as Jason was about to strike, Masaru Inoue came down to ringside with Olly to watch the fight. Oz was too busy paying attention to the action to shoo him away, which left Masaru free to mock Jason on the outside. A commanded peck to the face from Olly to Jason unseen by the ref started off his downfall, leaving Conor to smash into Jason’s face with a blind superman punch! “OHHH!!”’s from the crowd as Jason dropped to the mat and covered up. From there it was Conor raining down hell with soccer kicks and stomps, leaving Oz to quickly leap in and save Cashe from any further punishment.)

WINNER: Conor Blackburn via TKO @ 9 minutes, 21 seconds.

ALPINE: Cashe had a chance to do something great in beating Conor Blackburn, pulling the upset but that damn Owl...

RODZ: The Owl has a name, Alpine. Olly. It's not that hard. And for probably the first time, he was in the right. Cashe cost Olly's owner a match.

ALPINE: Yeah but there are other ways of payback then taking a bite out of a person. That Owl is Evil!

RODZ: That Owl has a damn name, Alpine!

(It didn't matter to Cashe as he had just went down in defeat, thanks to a cheap shot...by an Owl. Actually a bite as the Owl bit 'pecked' him good. Masaru was all the way on the ramp, giving a aura from that movie "The Crow". Just standing there in the dark, glaring down at his subject, Jason Cashe, who was just on his way out of the ring, highly upset. The Owl was sitting there, perched on right shoulder of his leather black trench coat that dragged the ground. He made his way down the ramp. Olly sensed something was about to go down and proceeded to flee from Maz's shoulder. As he got near Cashe, Cashe looked up and right then and there, made a beeline for him, taking him down with a spear as he and Maz began throwing their fists into each other.)

ALPINE: ALL OUT BRAWL AT RINGSIDE!!!

RODZ: No use in even trying to call for Security. They are always late!

(Masaru was able to draw his left knee into the body of Cashe, gaining some space of separation but Cashe was locked onto him as Masaru tried to escape. Maz again, struck him only this time with top part of his she as Cashe's grasp loosened. Masaru picked him up and grabbing him by his hair, the two of them made their way up the ramp and Maz, after ramming Cashe's head onto the sides of the stage setup, their travels furthered to the backstage and the Cameras continued to roll with Cashe having enough and shoving Maz right into the set of Equipment boxes in the Gorilla Position, causing folks to scatter. Stomps were followed, stamping his boot pattern all over Maz and his coat as he tried to roll away. Maz crawled but Cashe continued to stomp on him, like he was an insect that wouldn't die.)

ALPINE: Cashe is stomping a real mudhole into Maz.

RODZ: Maz's moniker is Blood Of Japan, but after these well-placed stomps, the blood will soon be running out. Maz is in a hard spot and is just taking kick after kick.

(Cashe continues to beat him down with stomps as Maz's body seems a bit limp, little to no motion. Cashe utters something inaudible as he tries to haul Maz up to his feet but Maz reacts with another knee, but this time to Cashe's "junk", leaving him to double over in pain. Maz slides away, a smirk on his face as he got to his feet and walked with some purpose, a striking punch to Cashe's grill initiated the two men past the area and into the small Catering area. Maz went for an Irish Whip into the vending machine but got reversed and his face wind up slammed into it instead. Cashe waved his finger for Maz to turn around and soon as he did, Cashe sent him flying with a hip toss, right into the table, hosting a varied selection of food...that was now ruined. Security finally appeared but it was too late. Cashe didn't care as he reigned in elbow after elbow to the skull and body of Masaru. Security broke the two apart, trying to regain order. Moments later, Maz begins to stir as the Security continues to show their force.)

CASHE: Who the FUCK DO YOU THINK YOU ARE!? You want more you FUCK? Any match, any location.. I got you on fucking Speed dial you punk fucking chump!

(Before anything else could break out as Masaru was slow to make any drastic moves, he was just on both knees, head down with his body trembling severely, indicating he was definitely hurt. They escorted Cashe off as he spit towards Masaru, landing not on him, but right in front of him.)

CASHE: Cocksucker!

(Security called for medics as they checked on Masaru, seeing if he was okay. Obviously affected, he didn't utter a word, just his eyes remained towards the floor, gazing far. Cameras returned back to ringside.)

ALPINE: Very rare to see one like Masaru in that shape. We've seen him over the years do the most insane things and get right back up but to see him in a somewhat trance or traumatized state...very tragic.

RODZ: That's Karma unfortunately. Cashe showed he wasn't for the BS. Just classic beat you, stomp you down method. We'll provide updates if we get anything! But looks like we maybe got ourselves a new match to look forward to at Awakening II!

ALPINE: We move onto the next blockbuster match in the quarter finals, this one featuring one of the top free agents out there, Tyberius King facing off against Caged Glory’s bad boy, Carrick Price. Both are really strong grapplers, so here we find ourselves in a natural pick em’ situation.

RODZ: Carrick is a hell of a grappler as he’s shown in his tear through Caged Glory, but he’s facing a man who is grappling prodigy in pro wrestling. If there’s ever been a good showdown of elite grapplers going at it in this tournament, it’s right here.

ALPINE: Carrick was quite dismissive of Tyberius’s resume and looks to prove him to be a ‘McDojo’ belt holder.

RODZ: Tyberius is as real as they come, and Carrick’s gonna find that out tonight.

Tyberius King vs. Carrick Price

(The crowd picked up in their anticipation as the night progressed, getting some loud soccer chants going throughout the building. That all changed to cheers though once ‘Over and Over’ by Pallbearer hit the PA. Out through the curtains stepped Tyberius King, slowly gazing around the arena with his icy glare. He then made his way to ringside with two PW trainers behind him and quickly escalated the steps. Once inside the ring he went right to his corner, not even bothering to play up to the crowd. He laid back silently against the pads, his attention firmly on the curtain ahead. The theme changed to ‘Whereabouts Unknown’ by Rise Against, bringing out the confident Carrick Price. Jason Jackson followed behind him along with a PW trainer. He held the irish flag high, proceeding to talk shit to Ty as he made his way to the ring. He stomped up the ring steps and swung into the ring, holding the irish flag high for all the fans to see. After a little round he took his corner where a ‘SLAUGHTAHOUSE’ banner was put up. He paced in corner and talked shit to the silent Ty, who patiently waited for him on the other side.)

DING DING DING!!

(Both pushed to the center of the ring where Carrick continued to talk shit. Ty didn’t bother with the theatrics and dodged an incoming jab, then ran in for a body lock. Ty tried to sling him to the ground but Carrick blocked with his leg then teep kicked Ty away. That little to push Ty back as he kept coming towards the pocket, leaving Carrick pawing away at jabs to keep him from getting any closer. It was a big hook though that left him open for a high waist takedown, leaving the fans cheering as Ty landing in mount. Ty wasn’t even interested in punching, his target was Carrick’s snapping left arm as he punched Ty in the face from his back. Another of those punches got caught and Ty started working for a kimura. Carrick used this opportunity for a switch, allowing him to reverse with a grunt and try to take Ty’s back as he got to his feet. Carrick lunged on Ty’s back like a spider monkey, looking to take him out like he took out Blythe. Ty’s face quickly started to turn red, leaving him little to no choice but to go pro wrestling on him. He back rushed towards the nearest turnbuckle, smashing Carrick’s back into the pads! This left him open for a head grip and a backpack stunner! “HOLY SHIT!!”s from the crowd as Carrick lost his grip and slipped off of Ty’s back. He tried to go for another back grapple but Ty reversed it hammerlock style into one of his famous moves, the Checkmate! He lifted up the much smaller Carrick, then brought him crashing down on his neck with a high angle german suplex, followed by a rapid transition to a rear naked choke!! The crowd was red hot as the glossy eyed Carrick was looking to be stretched by Ty. He sat in back mount, tightening his body lock as Carrick still fought with back elbows, not looking to tap. Ty continued to worm for that choke, eventually wrapping his arm under the neck. However just as he fell back to the mat, the bell rang.

Both fighters returned to their corners, with Ty looking unfazed and clear headed. Carrick on the other hand walked back with a stumble and a deep breath. Ty’s corner didn’t say anything, they just gave him a sip of water and an ice bag on the back. Carrick however was being read the riot act by Jason, saying he has to finish this round no matter what. Carrick nodded and took another deep breath.

The second round began, showing Carrick a little more active on the strikes. He pegged away at Ty’s face with his slightly improved boxing, Ty dodging a few of the blows. It was clear he was looking for a catch and reverse, to which Carrick stayed away from using kicks. A snap jab hit Ty right in the nose, bloodying it up and causing Carrick to pour it on. He came in with a series of jabs along with a sneaky uppercut that knocked Ty back. Ty quickly body locked onto Carrick and looked to trip him to the mat, only for Carrick to reverse the trip and land in side mount on Ty! Carrick pegged away at the bleeding nose of Ty, forcing him to cover up his nose and leave his guard open. This allowed Carrick to progress to full mount. It’s here that he tightened his thighs against Ty’s body and poured on the ground and pound! The crowd was on their feet as Carrick poured all he had onto Ty, but Ty was doing a fairly well job of blocking and weathering the storm. However after ten seconds of periodically being smashed in his bloody nose, Oz made the call to pull Carrick off, putting a stop to this fight.)

WINNER: Carrick Price via TKO @ 13 minutes, 52 seconds.

ALPINE: Carrick picks up the win tonight, but not without some controversy.

RODZ: C’mon Alpo, Oz was just looking out for Ty’s well being.

ALPINE: Well Ty still was intelligently defending himself. I think it was a little premature, but what do I know about MMA.

RODZ: Not very much there buddy. Protecting the fighters is always the priority.

(‘Whereabouts Unknown’ by Rise Against plays as Carrick celebrates with Jason Jackson, then hoists his irish flag high with pride. Ty doesn’t even bother protesting the decision, he sighs, nods at Carrick, then leaves the ring.)




Ernest Cauldwell

CGFC Dragon Champion
Ernest Cauldwell (154 Days)
3 defenses

2 x CGFC Fighter of the Night
2 x Fight of the Night
6 x Submission of the Night

Anastasia Starling ©

Underground Match of the Year 2017
SSWA World Champion
CCP Queen of the Mountain Winner 2016

PW Rebirth Champion
PW Rising Phoenix Champion x2


ALPINE: I must say that I'm a bit more hype than usual coming in to this match up in our Main Event tonight, Rodz. This is really a dream match of sorts, between an extremely creative grappler in our Rebirth Champion Anastasia and a very creative striker and submissionist in Caged Glory's Ernest Cauldwell.

RODZ: He isn't a slouch in the grappling department either Alpine, the man is a member of the Outliers tag team and the famed Filth Parade if my notes are correct...

ALPINE: All good things, all good things. This is bound to be one explosive match and a whole lot is riding on it.

RODZ: Damn right, I mean, it could be quite a payout.

ALPINE: You completely bet on this match, didn't you.

RODZ: Why are you always throwing these wild accusations my way? Just be happy we've got a banging Main Event tonight!

ALPINE: Right, right.

MAIN EVENT

Ernest Cauldwell vs. Anastasia Starling ©

(The arena quieted down as the lights dimmed. A single spotlight shone in the center of the ring, a beaming Lenne Hardt in the middle of it.)

HARDT: It’s time...for our MAIN EVENT OF THE EVENING!!!

(Big cheers from the fans. We get a crowd scan showing off a DIY ‘Outliers’ poster, a ‘Too Tweet’ sign, Ernest done up in a sawtooth crayon style, and a flapping sign with wings and Ana’s face, reading ‘The Bird’s The Word’. ‘Long Pig Chef and the Hairless Goat’ plays over the PA, bringing on plenty of cheers from Ernest’s time in Mexico with GOL. He makes his way to the ring under a red spotlight. Like usual wearing his traditional Gracie hoodie, this one with a blood red design. Two PW trainers follow behind as he rolls his neck calmly and paces down the aisle.)

HARDT: Making his way to the ring, weighing in at 162 pounds, he is a grappling and submission wizard, and one half of the Outliers….EEEEERRRRNNNNNNNEEEEESSSSSSTTTTTT CAAAAAAAUUUULLLLDDDDDWEEEEELLLLLL!!!!

ALPINE: Ernest has gained some real traction in this tournament on a quiet pace. Nobody blinked when he tapped out Fin, but the moment he took out Lance Winters people started to pay attention.

RODZ: Yeah but look at how he took him out. DQ. Lance practically disqualified himself. Now if he can beat Anastasia, now THERE would be an impressive win.

(Ernest makes his way in the ring and to his corner, raising a solid fist up calmly. He lays back against the pads and stretches out his back with a forward arch. His theme comes to an end, and his spotlight fades. The fans are already yammering for Ana, who has yet to come out. Then ‘Time’ (Yellhigh! Remix) by Satellite Empire hits, getting the arena popping. Blue and silver fireworks pop off above the arena, then a silver spotlight shines down on the curtains. Out runs Anastasia, dressed in her usual ringmaster attire but with more silver and blue to the mix. Bobby B. Barabbas follows behind her, along with a PW trainer. She races to ringside and slides in the ring, pacing Sabu style in her corner as Lenne finishes up her introduction.)

HARDT: Annnnd his opponent, weighing in at 119 pounds, she is the Phoenix Wrestling Rebirth Champion...she is the former Rising Phoenix Champion...she is one of the top female wrestlers in professional wrestling, ANNNNNNNAAAASSSTTTASSSSSSSIIIIAAAAA STTTTTARRRRRRLLLLLLLLIIIIIINNNNGGGGGGG!!!!

ALPINE: Anastasia is intent on proving herself to be the Iron Queen. With Bobby B. in her corner, that could very well be a possibility.

RODZ: No question. This isn't a big man she is facing, so she shouldn't have to worry about being thrown around.

(Ana greets her elaborate intro with a perfectly landed backflip. She then disrobes out of her outfit, anxious to get to scrapping. Once Bobby takes her jacket off she walks to the center of the ring and hoists up her Rebirth Championship as she stares at Ernest.)

“MINE!!!”

(Echoes throughout the arena as she hands off her championship to Oz, who hands it off to the timekeeper. Oz then sends Ana back to her corner as Lenne clears the ring. Her theme ends, the lights go on, and the bell rings.)

DING DING DING!!

(Ana with a devastating start as she caught Ernest off guard with a bicycle kick to the chest that nearly knocked him on his ass. The ropes saved him, allowing him to catch himself on the top. Ana was relentless though, hammering him with some rapid jabs to the face, along with a sneaky inside leg kick that nearly knocked Ernest to his feet. Instead he was able to rotate off the ropes and duck an incoming high kick attempt, allowing him to grip the leg with one hand and her waist to the other, allowing him to trip Ana to the mat! From there he rotated to full mount with ease, then grabbed one of Ana’s wild fists and rotated out for an armbar! The crowd was on their feet as Ernest cranked back in the center of the ring, causing Ana to arch her back to alleviate the pain. Suddenly she twirked her shoulder, dropped down, then slipped out of the move. As she stood her arm was bent at a funky ankle. She quickly rotated her arm out of the double jointedness and smirked to the slightly shocked Ernest. He nodded with a grin as the two circled again, Ana one again leading the charge with a superman punch into a head kick/body kick combo. However this time Ernest caught the leg and jumped in for a front grapple just as Ana went to single tie clinch. What resulted was an accidental headbut that split open Ana’s forehead, leading to some “OHHH!!!”s from the crowd. Ernest took her to the mat and instead rotated to her leg, looking to take her out with a knee lock. As dazed as she was from the shot, she still had the wits to slither out of the move before Ernest could do a full body grapevine. However Ernest chased for that takedown as she got up, leaving her sprawling the best she could. Luckily the ropes braced her from a takedown, but only for so long as Ernest got in close and took her to the mat with a scooping trip! The bell ring shortly after, and both competitors returned to their corners.

Ernest got iced down and a sip of water, remaining relaxed heading into the final round. However in Ana’s corner it was quite reverse as Bobby screamed at her to knock Ernest out, she is the better striker. Ana nodded and said “yes sir” as the trainer worked to vaseline up her forehead cut. Oz signaled for both fighters to stand for the final round.

The final round began, bringing on some loud “TOO TWEET!!!” chants to rally on Anastasia and give her some motivation in this final round. Like the round before, she kept up the intensity. Causing Ernest’s already reddened face to get redder with her pegging shots. The sixth shot to the face frustrated Ernest, causing him to go for a high waisted Gracie trip. Ana however ole’d him and did a spinning bird kick, clapping Ernest upside the head! The shot sent him to backpedal mode as he retreated to a corner, leading Ana to come in with a discus big boot to the chin! The fans were on their seats as Ernest went to grappler defense mode and ducked for a takedown. Ana tried to push off and go for a knee to the face, but Ernest ankle picked her to the mat and locked on a reverse kneebar! Ana reached for the nearby bottom ropes, but Ernest torqued back as he looked for submission. Just then the bell rang, putting an end to his attempt. Ana used the ropes to stand up with a limp, then gave a hug to Ernest who reciprocated. Bobby entered the ring and stood behind his daughter with the Rebirth title in hand. Ernest and Ana gathered in the center of the ring with Oz in the center, ready to raise the winner’s hand.)

HARDT: We have reached the conclusion to the final round, and now will head to the judges’ scorecards for the decision!

(Cheers from the crowd, along with a few “TOO TWEET!” chants.)

HARDT: Judge Latrisha scores it 29-28, Starling!

(A smile on the face of Anastasia, even as she looks up at her cut on the PhoenixTron.)

HARDT: Judge Stevenson judges it 29-28, Cauldwell!

(A nod from Ernest as he stares at the mat.)

HARDT: And Judge Rage judges it 29-28, for the winner by split decision…..EEEEERRRRRNNNNNEEESSSSSSTTTTTT CAAAAAAAAUUUULLLLDDDDWWEELLLLLLLLLLLLL!!!

WINNER: Ernest Cauldwell via SPLIT DECISION @ 15 minutes.

ALPINE: Wow, I can’t believe Ernest just pulled off that big win!

RODZ: Alright, NOW I’m impressed.

ALPINE: You should be, he just beat the top two singles champions in PW back to back!

RODZ: Slaine, get out your checkbook and show this motherfucka some zeros!

ALPINE: Agreed! That said, what a tough, gutsy performance from Anastasia! She still fought like this was a dogfight even with that cut on her head.

RODZ: She is the toughest bundle of dynamite to ever grace PW. I look forward to her resurgence real soon.

(As heartbroken as she is, Ana gives Ernest a hug and raises his hand. He’s gracious in defeat, whispering flattering things to her and bowing. He then shakes the hand of Bobby, who gives him a pat on the shoulder. The show comes to an end with Ernest getting up close to the ring camera.)

Cauldwell: Iron King….Dragon’s Rage….THIS IS MY YEAR!!

(Cauldwell then raises his hands to the crowd as the camera fades out to the PW 2018 logo.)