Post by Aloysius Marcus Vance IV on Aug 3, 2022 17:34:40 GMT -6
Episode #2: The Stars Above
Live from the State Farm Arena in Atlanta, Georgia
Wednesday, August 3rd, 2022 at 7pm
Gates open at 6pm
BACKSTAGE SEGMENT: NOAH ORTEGA/THE LOST
Meant to Be
The scene opens with the Leader of the Lost Generation, Noah Ortega, standing in front of a Vanguard logo'd backdrop, alongside him his followers and stablemates of The Lost - Anton Palmer and Gio Moriello, all dressed for the occasion in their ring gear.
Ortega rubs his hand through his goatee, a smile etching onto his face as he looks at the camera, tilting down to unveil his newly won CU:LT Classic Championship belt buckled around his waist.. The camera-man turns around, to reveal the usual numerous masked members, all unknown followers of the lost - all taking a knee as they look up at their leader Ortega, who's smile has already turned into a sickening grin, stretching from one ear to the other.
Noah Ortega: The world is watching and they wanna see us fall. They've wanted that since the start of our existence but we're not going to let it happen, no, not on our watch. We're taking control of our destiny, grasping it with both hands and ensuring that the way of The Lost, is the way of the future... we're only just getting started, in both divisions, paving our way to glory. I already paved my way to glory this year in a number of promotions... but Hybrid has had a hold of me since it's return, and I've had an affinity to the Global Heavyweight Championship, a calling of sorts, one that's telling me that I needed it in my possession - that I need it in order to elevate it to the highest status in this industry...
I'm the man to do the job, not all your favorite pretenders and liars, who wanna feed you false hope, ideologies and beliefs, they know nothing... all they know is this capitalistic western ideology, they don't care about the art - they don't care about the industry, not like I do! Your Duke Andrews and Luke Marshall's, Eddy Todd and Clayton Kane... they're posers, hiding who they truly are, putting on this facade as a pantomime act! They want you to believe that they're the real deal, but I see right through them. Duke Andrews, the big hunk who's the poster boy, the man you'd want to carry your brand... but that's all he is, he's an idea - an image, but when it comes to it, Duke Andrews isn't as good as Noah Ortega in the ring, nor as Luke Marshall, or Eddy and Clayton Kane... the only ones I'd beg to question is Samantha Tolson or Mikaela Callaway, but even they have their limitations, even they are questionable... I'm a man who knows his purpose, knows that with my methods - I can accomplish anything I set my mind to, and I have been doing so... making it this far in the tournament and I don't plan on stopping... I'm going for the crown.
Ortega pauses, his signature smirking plastering onto his lip.
Noah Ortega: This wasn't no accident, we were meant to be here, fighting for both championships on all fronts... with Anton Palmer and Gio Moriello, we have a lethal combination capable of dominating the tag team division for the foreseeable future. They've bombarded their way through each qualifying round and now have the chance of capturing those Global Tag Team Championships... I said it from the beginning and no one believed in me, they all laughed... but guess who's laughing now, we're at the pinnacle - just a touch away from domination and those who doubted us are left to question their own knowledge... left to question whether their own methods and logics are acceptable and when they realize they're not, they're realize that the way of The Lost, is the only way.
The Lost say back to him in unison;
The Lost: "And soon the world will know!"
Noah Ortega: That we are the present and the future, and tonight we'll etch our names into the archives of this promotion, one way or another! Anton Palmer, the Mammoth Among Man, and Gio Moriello, The Trailblazer - together have already cemented their names into the archives of this promotion, as members of The Lost. In the Carnival of Chaos, they reigned supreme and that's cemented them with this opportunity, through each tribulation, they survived and conquered and deserve to be here, they earned this... as did 2 Broke Chicks, I suppose but The Lost, we're the ones who've set the tempo, and got the people talking. We're the ones capable of revolutionizing this industry and we will tonight!
He rubs his hands together in excitement, nodding whilst doing so.
Noah Ortega: Iida Matsuda, The Supreme Submission Machine; I have no doubt that you'll want this with all your heart and your soul, with everything that you've got but I promise you, that still won't be enough. You're young, you're dangerous, you're someone who shouldn't be underestimated. You're a submission specialist with a background in mixed martial arts... a no nonsense fighter, who will tussle with the best of them. I'm familiar with your work in New Frontier Wrestling too, but as impressed as I am with you Iida, you haven't got that filthy tenacity that's going to spur you onto the further into this tournament - you haven't got that dog in you, like I have! I've been about the block, had to endure just like you and I embraced that suffering, became something else because of it!
I'm someone who knows who he is, as the Leader of the Lost Generation - but you're just another lonely soul, aimlessly wandering, wanting to cling onto some hope of success... but you won't Iida, not until you acknowledge what you are... a lost soul - just like me, and then only then will you realize your full potential, by walking the way of The Lost... but until then, you're just a passenger, a bystander in my story to the mountaintop! I have to defeat you and then whoever comes next, hell will continue to rain. I said when I first signed to this company that I would be the man who lifted it from the pits of despair and into prosperity, and that's what I'll deliver... together, The Lost will prosper and because of it, Hybrid will prosper. As the way of The Lost, is the only way.
Ortega smirks arrogantly as Moriello and Palmer pump themselves up in the background, with the scene gradually fading to black.
MATCH ONE
Global Heavyweight Tournament: Quarterfinals Match
Ilda Matsuda vs. Noah Ortega
*DING!* *DING!* *DING!*
Ortega and Matsuda lock-up in a traditional collar and elbow tie-up. Ortega pulls back to give her a lariat and Matsuda catches his arm, swings up like she’s going to go for the crucifix and then keeps going into a cross armbreaker. Ortega grimaces and then goes to pick her up. Matsuda switches to an arm-in triangle. Ortega grabs at the toprs, quickly before desperation can set in. The referee starts to count and Matsuda gives the break. She takes a step back and kicks Ortega in the head. She jumps on him as he crashes down, looking for a submission again. Ortega rolls it so that her shoulders are down.
ONE!
TWO!
MATSUDA KICKS OUT!
TWO!
MATSUDA KICKS OUT!
Matsuda looks for a triangle again and Ortega pulls out before she can lock it in. Ortega gives her a basement dropkick and then rolls her into a cradle.
ONE!
TWO!
MATSUDA REVERSES INTO ENDLESS DREAM!
TWO!
MATSUDA REVERSES INTO ENDLESS DREAM!
Ortega gets into the ropes before she can lock him in properly. The referee calls for the break and she gives it. Ortega slowly stands up and grabs her for an Irish whip. As she comes back on the rebound, Ortega sends her flying over the top rope. She lands on the apron and Ortega turns his back. Matusda stands up and jumps into the Last Call. Ortega goes down like he’s been shot. Matsuda goes for Endless Dream again. Ortega rolls up and gives her a knee to the head, knocking her loose from him. Ortega hits the Picture Perfect Dropkick and then covers.
ONE!
TWO!
MATSUDA KICKS OUT!
TWO!
MATSUDA KICKS OUT!
Matsuda rolls him over like she’s going for a cradle and then continues into a Rings of Saturn hold. Ortega gets his feet back into the ropes and the referee calls for the break. Matsuda pulls him away from the ropes and starts to go for the hold again only for Ortega to jump up into an O’Connor roll.
ONE!
TWO!
MATSUDA KICKS OUT!
TWO!
MATSUDA KICKS OUT!
Ortega is propelled into the ropes and bounces back for Lost Hope. Matsuda goes down and Ortega covers.
ONE!
TWO!
THREE!
TWO!
THREE!
*DING!* *DING!* *DING!*
Spirit Montego: And your winner, continuing to the semifinals… NOAH ORTEGA!
Bernadette Olson: The leader of The Lost chalks up another win, and in convincing fashion.
Jacob Frankel: You can bet that his opponent was watching… whoever that may be!
Winner: Noah Ortega
Result: Pinfall at 8:20 (Lost Hope)
Result: Pinfall at 8:20 (Lost Hope)
RINGSIDE SEGMENT: FRONT OFFICE
Bad News?
Cameras cut to the skybox where a familiar quintet sit, having a perfect bird’s-eye view of the ring below. HYBRID’s Front Office are present en masse, with the CEO Aloysius Marcus Vance IV front and center. Three of the rest join him in that same row while, in the back, the towering Trenton Mitchell leans against the wall… still able to see what’s going on, but keeping to himself. While the four in front are sipping on champagne and fine food, Trenton is nursing a beer, further putting himself at a distance. AMV turns his way more than once, usually after a whisper from one of the others, but concerns are brushed off.
Until a phone rings.
AMV takes the device off the nearby table, checks the screen, then answers.
Aloysius Marcus Vance IV: Vance. Any word?
Listening, AMV is silent for several moments. Then his expression tightens just a bit. He listens for a few moments longer, then shrugs.
Aloysius Marcus Vance IV: I must admit to being surprised. After all else, you understand.
The others present, save Trenton, exchange glances. All eyes are on AMV, again save Trenton’s, as the man in charge finishes up the short call.
Aloysius Marcus Vance IV: Let’s see what happens in two weeks. If there’s a repeat, then perhaps I was mistaken and it’s time for a change, hm?
With his grin returning, AMV ends the call and puts his phone down. As he seems to be in proper spirits again, no one questions the nature of the communication. Trenton, however, comes down to the front row of the skybox. AMV rises at that point and says something that the others can’t hear. Trenton nods and takes his leave as AMV retakes his seat.
BACKSTAGE SEGMENT: DUKE ANDREWS
Bodies
The camera focuses on the designer suit hanging up in the locker. The black fabric of the jacket, highlighted with the white button down hanging next to it. As the camera pans to the right, the black t-shirt that reads “PERFECTION” in gold hangs on a hook.
Duke Andrews: The issue of being perfect has been a topic of discussion for years. Since i adopted the gimmick in Chicago during the B.U.D. days. Everyone kind of dissed the gimmick before realizing it was more of a way of life.
The camera finds The Epitome of Perfection sitting in a folding chair. His black singlet, the piping in gold leather down the sides. The chest has a black leather lion head as he tears the gold tape with his left hand. His wrists taped over his thumbs.
Duke Andrews: I’ve spent fifteen years in this industry since I became The Epitome of Perfection and I’ve heard every single Tom, Dick, and Harry try and cut down on what they view it means. It’s not about always getting the win. In this war we are on, battles are won and lost. That’s just how it works. But this long journey, the end goal, that’s where it takes precedence. It’s not about winning against some slug who thinks they are great because they have this homeless teen complex and just signed their first deal. It’s about stacking bodies when it counts. Like tonight. Three bodies will be stacked.
He holds up three fingers as he stares into the camera.
Duke Andrews: I heard what Sam said. I saw her quirks on twitter and didn’t even need to respond. She’s living in fantasy land thinking she’s even in my league. Thinking that she could stand in the ring with me and end up victorious. She’s played around with the wannabe rockstar in 5B. She tries to elevate her level because she ends up teaming with everyone’s most hated jukebox wannabe. She hasn’t spent the nights on the road with the real pavers in this industry. Because her inflated ego has allowed her to believe she’s great in second hand promotions. She isn’t the star in this company.
A long exhale as he folds his hands in his lap.
Duke Andrews: I’m not saying that I’m the greatest because I’ve torn up every gymnasium and arena across this country. I’m saying the greatest because in HYBRID i have already set the bar. I’m saying I’m the greatest because I have done everything in this company that each and every single slug on this roster dreams of achieving. I’ve been at the top of this mountain. And I could give two fucks if anyone wants to belittle that because it’s a different rendition. HYBRID was built off my back. It was built the night I ended Christian Michaels dreams of being a top guy again. When I turned my back on the one guy that always had my back. I burned my own trail and this company made more money than they ever dreamed of. Because of me. That’s not a rumor. That’s a fact. And then to come back, back up the money truck and dump it in my possession. It’s because they knew Eddie, Sam, Luke and the rest of the roster wasn’t going to make the money they could dream of. And Sam, ask Eric Donovan what happened last time someone in this company thought they were far superior to me. Ask Ursula about that. Ask your boss in 5B. Ask around about Duke Andrews. And then you’ll understand that me winning three times tonight, that isn’t a dream. That’s just what is required by me and what I know I’m capable of. And when I get that title tonight, you can bow down and acknowledge that I am that damn good.
Duke smirks as he tosses the tape behind him into the locker. Standing up as he grabs his shirt.
Duke Andrews: That goes for everyone in this tournament. Luke. Noah. Ilda. Eddie. Doesn’t matter who I have to face.
Fade.
MATCH TWO
Global Heavyweight Tournament: Quarterfinals Match
Duke Andrews vs. Luke Marshall
*DING!* *DING!* *DING!*
Andrews and Marshall go to lock-up and Marshall jumps into a sunset flip.
ONE!
TWO!
ANDREWS KICKS OUT!
TWO!
ANDREWS KICKS OUT!
Marshall hits a couple of kicks that then shoots Andrews off to the ropes, running in an almost perpendicular angle himself. They both rebound off the ropes and come together in the Freight Train. Marshall jumps on top for a cover.
ONE!
TWO!
ANDREWS ROLLS OVER INTO A CRADLE~!
ONE!
TWO!
REVERSAL!
ONE!
TWO!
ANDREWS KICKS OUT!
TWO!
ANDREWS ROLLS OVER INTO A CRADLE~!
ONE!
TWO!
REVERSAL!
ONE!
TWO!
ANDREWS KICKS OUT!
As they go to stand up, Andrews gets him in a backslide.
ONE!
TWO!
MARSHALL KICKS OUT!
TWO!
MARSHALL KICKS OUT!
Andrews gets the Red, White & Blue Combo followed by the Killshot. He covers the fallen Marshall.
ONE!
TWO!
THR-NO!
MARSHALL KICKS OUT!
TWO!
THR-NO!
MARSHALL KICKS OUT!
The two get up and trade shots before Marshall hits the Go-Home Driver.
ONE!
TWO!
THR-NO!
ANDREWS GETS A SHOULDER UP!
TWO!
THR-NO!
ANDREWS GETS A SHOULDER UP!
The two get up, trade shots again before Andrews hits the Andrews Effect.
ONE!
TWO!
THREE!
TWO!
THREE!
*DING!* *DING!* *DING!*
Spirit Montego: The winner of the match, advancing to the semifinals… DUKE ANDREWS!
Bernadette Olson: Can’t say I’m surprised. Talented as Luke Marshall is, Duke is a force… and he hasn’t lost a step.
Jacob Frankel: I still don’t like his attitude, but you can’t argue with success. At least not without looking silly.
Winner: Duke Andrews
Result: Pinfall at 6:22 (Andrews Effect)
Result: Pinfall at 6:22 (Andrews Effect)
MATCH THREE
Global Heavyweight Tournament: Quarterfinals Match
Eddy Tood vs. Clayton Kane
*DING!* *DING!* *DING!*
The two come out fighting, each throwing punches on the other as if they are arguing over politics, money, religion, family and revage all at once. Kane starts to take the fistfight advantage and Todd slaps the hands away and jumps into a knee strike. Kane falls down to one knee and Todd drills him with a big lariat. Todd covers.
ONE!
TWO!
KANE KICKS OUT!
TWO!
KANE KICKS OUT!
The two get up and start fighting again, drawing blood from each other before Todd hits the Execution. He covers again.
ONE!
TWO!
KANE KICKS OUT!
TWO!
KANE KICKS OUT!
The two start fighting again and this time, Kane knocks him down in the corner and starts to stomp him into oblivion. He drops down and pounds away until the referee forces to break or be disqualified. Kane spits on Todd and backs off, waiting for him to come on. Todd gets up angry and Kane catches him for a big spinebuster before putting on the Gearlock. Todd starts thrashing about from the pain, grabbing at Kane and finally thumbing him in the eye before grabbing the bottom rope. The referee calls for the break. Kane releases him but hits some vicious elbow strikes, 12-6 right on the trapezius. Todd grimaces and cries out in pain before Kane drills him in the back of the head with a big forearm shot. Todd goes down and Kane covers.
ONE!
TWO!
TODD GETS A SHOULDER UP!
TWO!
TODD GETS A SHOULDER UP!
Kane starts doing the elbow strikes again and then looks for the FTW. Todd picks him up and slams him into the turnbuckles to block it and then throws him halfway across the ring with an overhead belly to belly suplex. Todd hits a big lariat and then catches him trying to run back at him for a spinning sidewalk slam. He holds for the cover.
ONE!
TWO!
KANE KICKS OUT!
TWO!
KANE KICKS OUT!
Todd gets him up and hits Kingdom Come.
ONE!
TWO!
THREE!
TWO!
THREE!
*DING!* *DING!* *DING!*
Spirit Montego: The winner of the match, heading to the semifinals… EDDY TODD!
Bernadette Olson: Kane gave a hell of a fight, but Eddy Todd was too much for him tonight.
Jacob Frankel: Guess that means it’s Eddy versus either Sam or Mikaela… either his lady or one of the toughest stars around… and neither option would be a pleasant one!
Winner: Eddy Todd
Result: Pinfall at 10:45 (Kingdom Come)
Result: Pinfall at 10:45 (Kingdom Come)
BACKSTAGE SEGMENT: SAMANTHA TOLSON
Making Believers
Samantha Tolson paces in her locker room, dressed for her upcoming battle with Mikaela Calaway. Back and forth she paces, slowly, almost as if stalking prey.
Samantha Tolson: Tonight, I may fight three times. Tonight, I will do so not just to claim the Grand Championship, but also to yet again silence all the doubters. Tonight, you will all have no choice but to believe.
Granted, I'm no fool. I know this isn't going to be easy. A trio of wonderful competitors await, all with the same goal. All of them believe in themselves, as do I. This belief isn't up for debate, for if you do not believe in yourself, you shouldn't be in this.
No, when this night is finished, and I stand victorious, holding the Grand Championship, you will believe me. You will believe in me, and you will believe that I am all I say I am.
Back… forth… back… forth. The footsteps are soft, measured with a metronome inside only Samantha's mind.
Samantha Tolson: There is no doubt that I am made for nights just like this. Hours upon hours spent steeling my body, mind, and resolve for undertakings just such as this. Chances are high I've spent more time in preparation for tonight than anyone still in the field.
I may be a lot of things, but the one thing I will never be is unprepared.
So when it comes time for the final match of the night, I will be battered, I will be bruised…hell, I may even be bleeding. But like the shark, I am relentless, especially when we get into deep waters. Make no mistake, that final match, from bell to bell, will be just that.
The slow, softly padding steps continue, as does the woman making them.
Samantha Tolson: I hope you've enjoyed the wine, women or men, and songs. I hope you reveled in your cigars, breathing deeply of the smoke. Seriously, I do.
Because on this night, you're now in the deep waters. Only a true predator with an instinct to swim through the current and devour all in her path will survive.
The shark smells the blood in her waters, and she's hungry.
Tonight, you will all bear witness as I again show the world that I am not the prey, but I am the predator, born to rule the seas from beneath the surface on which you poor, unfortunate souls continue to doubt me.
After tonight?
You. Will. Believe.
Samantha finally looks into the camera, a ravenous, predatory gleam in her eyes as a smirk forms upon her lips. Cameras cut from the locker room to the ring for the next match.
MATCH FOUR
Global Heavyweight Tournament: Quarterfinals Match
Samantha Tolson vs. Mikaela Callaway
*DING!* *DING!* *DING!*
Tolson and Callaway lock-up in a traditional collar and elbow tie-up. Tolson takes a side headlock and Callaway ducks under into a hammerlock. Tolson drops to a knee and snap mares Callaway over. Callaway quickly rolls out of the way before Tolson can try for anything else and Callaway tries to jump into a front facelock only for Tolson to throw her off so that Callaway lands face first on the mat. Tolson cradles her.
ONE!
TWO!
CALLAWAY KICKS OUT!
TWO!
CALLAWAY KICKS OUT!
Tolson moves in looking for a headlokc again. Callaway ducks and steps behind looking for an O’Connor roll. Tolson grabs the roeps and shrugs her off. Callaway jumps up into a dropkick and then gest the O’Connor roll anyway.
ONE!
TWO!
TOLSON KICKS OUT!
TWO!
TOLSON KICKS OUT!
Callaway is sent into the ropes and Tolson catches her on the rebound for a rising lariat. Caklaway goes down hard and Tolson follows with an elbow drop before holding for the cover.
ONE!
TWO!
CALLAWAY ROLLS HER OVER INTO A CRUCIFIX!
ONE!
TWO!
TOLSON KICKS OUT!
TWO!
CALLAWAY ROLLS HER OVER INTO A CRUCIFIX!
ONE!
TWO!
TOLSON KICKS OUT!
Callaway catches her for a backslide.
ONE!
TWO!
TOLSON KICKS OUT!
TWO!
TOLSON KICKS OUT!
Callaway gets a slingshot DDT.
ONE!
TWO!
THR-NO!
TOLSON GETS A SHOULDER UP!
TWO!
THR-NO!
TOLSON GETS A SHOULDER UP!
Callaway goes for the 450 Splash but Tolson moves and Callaway crashes to the mat. Tolson cradles her.
ONE!
TWO!
THREE!
TWO!
THREE!
*DING!* *DING!* *DING!*
Spirit Montego: The winner, advancing to the next round… SAMANTHA TOLSON!
Bernadette Olson: No hate at all on Mikaela, as she hung in there well, but Tolson takes the win and will now be facing down Eddy Todd.
Jacob Frankel: Might honestly be the lesser of the two evils. Eddy won’t have to hold back against Tolson. Not that I think he would, but… you know.
Winner: Samantha Tolson
Result: Pinfall at 7:03 (Cradle)
Result: Pinfall at 7:03 (Cradle)
BACKSTAGE SEGMENT: DAMIAN SIMMONS
Look At That Smile
The scene opens on Katie Simmons with her massive husband Damian towering behind her. He is scowling and this time she is wearing a similar expression. Her grimace only lasts a split second before she closes her eyes, takes a deep breath, and smiles.
Katie Simmons: The last Vanguard didn’t exactly go how we wanted… Damian got the wreckage and destruction he was after…
A genuine, satisfied smile crosses Damian’s face.
Katie Simmons: I, however, didn’t get what I wanted. We were supposed to win and my husband would become champion and get to destroy more people and I’d get to be in the spotlight where I belong and NONE OF THOSE OTHER IDIOTS WOULD GET TO BE THERE!
She gets a wild look in her eyes as she gets more and more worked up before Damian puts a hand on her shoulder and leans down to talk with her. Whatever he says seems to calm her down because she takes a deep breath and continues.
Katie Simmons: But that’s okay. Vanguard Episode Two provides a chance to right the ship, as one of Damian’s opponents from episode one, the only person from that match who’s size comes close to rivaling my man, steps into the ring with The Colossus. “Jitu”, Jabali Desmond.
She sneers again as if saying those words tasted bad.
Katie Simmons: Okay I’ll be honest. You’re big. You’re powerful. But… I’m willing to bet you’ve never faced someone like Damian before. Bigger. Stronger. Better than you…
The redhead giggles mischievously, a stark contrast from her disgust moments earlier.
Katie Simmons: See, my husband isn’t always as bright and cheery as he is now…
Katie looks up at Damian, his scowl is haunting.
Katie Simmons: He has his own bad moods. He had his fun but… That’s a double edged sword, you see. Because now he wants more. He loves this more than anything else. And now, Mr. Desmond, there aren’t multiple targets for my husband to focus on. Now it’s just you and him. I’m sure you’ll give it your all and put your best foot forward and… whatever. But I need you to realize you’re nothing more than a rebound for Damian. A step to show what he can do.
The small Simmons takes a deep breath and smiles once more.
Katie Simmons: So, for your sake, just take this beating and don’t make it difficult.
She stops for a moment, putting a finger on her chin in thought. After a few quick moments she shrugs.
Katie Simmons: Or do! It’s more fun that way. Either way, see you out there.
She gives a little wave as she turns and walks out of shot, leaving the camera to zoom in on Damian’s face before the shot cuts to the ringside area.
MATCH FIVE
Damian Simmons vs. Jabali Desmond
*DING!* *DING!* *DING!*
The two towers of humanity meet each other in the middle of the ring, and Jabali is immediately in the rare position of facing off with someone even bigger than he is! The beast from Kenya doesn’t let it get to him, though, staring Damian in the eye and even talking a little good-natured trash, mocking the height difference. Damian is stone-faced, however, eventually rocking Jabali with a wicked headbutt after several more moments of verbal jabs from the man nicknamed Jitu (or Giant in Swahili)! Rocked but not sent down, Jabali is still stunned enough that he does not respond to another headbutt, nor the series of rights that come from the watermelon-sized fists of the Juggernaut! He soon finds himself against the ropes, but reverses an Irish whip from Damian, sending HIM into the ropes instead! The two monsters collide mid-ring, neither so much as staggering from the impact! Damian’s height advantage is marginally negated by Jabali being fifty pounds heavier and the two beasts clash again… and then a third time! Damian is seething at this point, reversing an Irish whip himself and driving Jabali backwards with a hard clothesline! Another one sends the Kenyan into the ropes but a pump kick from Jabali rocks Damian’s world now, though a leaping shoulderblock only staggers the Juggernaut while Katie on the outside pounds on the apron and cheers her monster on!
Damian has had enough of this opposition, though, and taunts Jabali into another leaping attack just so the Juggernaut can smash him to the mat with the Royal Flush (Thrust Spinebuster), shaking the ring with the impact! The nearly 350-pound Desmond is on his back, no doubt seeing spots in front of his eyes as Damian starts putting the boots to him, only relenting when referee Kara Tarantino, looking like a child next to these giants, warns him off. Pulling Jabali to his feet, Damian delivers a vicious short-arm clothesline, then drags Jabali up and delivers a second! A third is attempted but Jabali ducks, getting behind Damian and clamping on a waistlock! He heaves the Colossus up, but Damian forces his way down, elbows out of Jabali’s grip and delivers a hellacious neckbreaker for a near-fall! He follows up with a Bad Beat (Side Slam Backbreaker) and a leaping elbow that seems to rattle the entire ring for another near-fall, but Jabali kicks out yet again. Instead of becoming more agitated, though, Damian smiles. He whips Jabali into the corner, but the Kenyan avoids his charge, attacking with right hands and a headbutt of his own! He seems to want the Beast Bomb (Sit-Out Choke Bomb), but a dangerously-low boot from Damian allows the Juggernaut to free himself. Heaving up Jabali, Damian wows the crowd by stepping up onto the second rope and delivering the Colossal Drop (Second-Rope Fall-Away Slam) and getting the academic three-count!
*DING!* *DING!* *DING!*
Spirit Montego: And your winner… DAMIAN SIMMONS!
Bernadette Olson: Damian wrecked the big man from Africa! No other way to put it!
Jacob Frankel: This big guy is gonna go far… just watch!
Winner: Damian Simmons
Result: Pinfall at 7:08 (Colossal Drop)
Result: Pinfall at 7:08 (Colossal Drop)
SEGMENT
TBA
BACKSTAGE SEGMENT: BLAKE MASON
Keeping it Simple
The scene opens backstage with Blake Mason standing in front of the door of his locker room already decked out in his robe. He lingers on the camera for roughly thirty seconds prior to his lips parting, indicating that he is ready to speak.
Blake Mason: There is a lot I can say at this very moment. To be frank, I am not in the mood to talk. I have done a lot of that in my professional wrestling career. For now I am going to spare you the usual this is why I’m here, what are my goals speech. The why I am here is not ground breaking in the least bit.
Brody Slater, rest with the knowledge that what I am going to do to you won’t come from a place of hatred. You haven’t done a goddamn thing to me. No real reason to carry hate in my heart for your very existence. Understand you are just a means to an end. Nothing more. Nothing less. A prop used to ensure I showcase what I’m capable of. You should be honored. Sincerely.
So Brody. Welcome... to the Blake, Mason, Experience! Unlike the patrons of the Velvet Rabbit last Thursday, you won’t enjoy what I have in store.
Blake smirks. He suddenly walks off as the scene fades to black.
MATCH SIX
Blake Mason vs. Brody Slater
*DING!* *DING!* *DING!*
Slater wastes little time expounding his virtues to the calm and unimpressed Blake, who looks him over for a moment before gesturing to Christy on the outside as if to say “you believe this guy?” Slater takes that as an insult and slaps Blake, who responds with a spear, driving Brody to the mat! Mounting the multiple-sport star, Blake grabs him by the head and fires off straight, measured right hands to the head until referee Zach Young talks him into ceasing before the count of five. Blake regains his cool for a moment, then hauls off and punts Slater upside the head! The crowd collectively winces at the blow and Blake takes a few steps back, leaning against the turnbuckles and staring at the barely-moving Slater as he VERY slowly starts to come around. Young counts, reaching seven before Brody waves him off, assuring the young official that he’s good to go. Blake seems marginally impressed that Brody is back up, albeit unsteadily. That lasts all of two seconds as he snatches Brody by the arm and pulls him into an ushigoroshi for a near-fall… which might have been a full three-count had Blake not pulled his head up at the last moment! The crowd doesn’t like this, nor does Zach Young, but Christy is just pleased as punch. Blake, likewise amused by his own tactics, decides that he has played enough. A ripcord elbow jacks Slater’s jaw, and that’s more than enough for Blake to hit Prelude to the End (Leaping Reverse STO) and get the one-two-three!
*DING!* *DING!* *DING!*
Spirit Montego: And your winner… BLAKE MASON!
Bernadette Olson: This is why the saying ‘doesn’t get paid by the hour’ exists. Blake put Brody down hard and quick.
Jacob Frankel: Almost disrespectfully, if you ask me. But a win is a win, and this was a strong one.
Winner: Blake Mason
Result: Pinfall at 4:13 (Prelude to the End)
Result: Pinfall at 4:13 (Prelude to the End)
MATCH SEVEN
Global Heavyweight Tournament: Semifinals Match
Noah Ortega vs. Duke Andrews
*DING!* *DING!* *DING!*
For perhaps the first time since being in a HYBRID ring, Noah looks to be taking things cautiously. Duke, seeming to be feeling no ill aftereffects beyond his match with Luke Marshall, stays stationary, watching the leader of the Lost with a canny eye. The two lock up and a moment later Noah is half-shoved, half-thrown across the ring by the veteran powerhouse. His expression registers no surprise, though, rising up to his feet slowly. Duke cracks his neck prior to the two locking up again, with Ortega trying to bring Duke down with a single-leg. Duke counters with a hard knee, scooping Ortega up for a powerbomb only for Noah to slip behind him, attempting a sunset flip. Duke puts on the brakes and aims a stomp at Noah’s head. Escaping the shot, Noah is up and running, hitting the ropes and delivering a chop block to the bigger man’s leg. Duke staggers and a front dropkick to the chest further staggers him. A back elbow drives Noah to the mat when he attempts to keep the momentum going but Duke’s elbow drop hits nothing but canvas.
Immediately Noah is on Duke, throwing hard stomps until referee Butch Grant threatens disqualification, only then switching to a mount and firing off right hands upon Duke’s head! A pin attempt follows… but Duke chucks Noah off at one! Noah briefly registers surprise, but goes right back to the attack, throwing a hard football kick to the chest of Andrews. Hitting the ropes again, Noah leaps to the second strand and twists in midair for a crossbody… but gets planted on the mat with a swinging side slam from the suddenly-vertical Duke Andrews! Duke makes a pin attempt of his own, but Ortega kicks out at two! The KillShot (V-Trigger) is avoided by Noah, who again attacks the right leg, ducking a clothesline and firing hard knife-edge chops to the broad chest of Duke, determined to bring the bigger man down! Shoved into the buckles, Noah counters a charge from Duke with a boot to the chest, backing up onto the top rope. He leaps over another charge from Duke, rolling to his feet and hitting the ropes, sliding between Duke’s legs and keeping his momentum before aiming his Pitch Perfect Dropkick to Duke’s right thigh! With Andrews down to a knee, Noah delivers the TRIFECTA (Kick Combination), sending Duke back to the mat! A lateral press with the leg hooked gets a two-count from Butch, but Andrews kicks out with authority!
At this point, The Lost come down to ringside, with Butch seeing them before anyone else. He warns them against interference and Noah uses that moment to violently rake at the eyes of Duke, giving himself the advantage! Gio and Anton keep their distance without a word while Duke angrily swings at the air, trying to land a shot on Noah through the blur! Another Pitch Perfect Dropkick lands, knocking Andrews into the ropes and Noah follows up with a big springboard hurricanrana, leading to a near-fall! Noah keeps the pressure on with more chops and kicks, boldly throwing a few leaping forearms to the jaw of the staggered Duke until a flying leap leads to a hellacious headbutt from Andrews, knocking Ortega out of the air and busting the leader of the Lost open! This gets Gio and Anton up on the apron but Andrews has had enough from the get. He scoops Noah up and lands a few hard rights before military-pressing him and chucking him at the Lost! Noah is caught, but a running boot sends all three crashing to the floor! Andrews leaves the ring, rolling Noah back in and quickly following! Butch’s attention being diverted by Gio and Anton lets Noah hit a low blow and a hard kick to the head, bringing Andrews down! Noah goes up top to deliver For The Lost (Moonsault Double Stomp) but Andrews rolls aside! Back on his feet, Andrews rams a thumb into Noah’s eye, a receipt for earlier that the referee just misses, leading to The Andrews Effect (One-Winged Angel) and the three-count!
*DING!* *DING!* *DING!*
Spirit Montego: The winner of the match, moving on to the finals of the tournament… DUKE ANDREWS!
Duke stares down the Lost as he leaves the ring, as if daring them to try something, but Gio and Anton only spare him a glare before getting into the ring to check on their leader. Butch Ward raises the arm of Andrews, who is headed to the finals for the championship in the main event!
Bernadette Olson: If you weren’t sold on Duke Andrews yet, well… I’m willing to bet that that changed your mind.
Jacob Frankel: I thought Noah might pull this one off, honestly! He was all over Duke from the start! But power and experience saw the big man through!
Bernadette Olson: Question is… who will he be facing at the end? Because he’s had words with both prospective opponents…
Jacob Frankel: I’m not even TRYING to call that one before it happens!
Winner: Duke Andrews
Result: Pinfall at 13:56 (Andrews Effect)
Result: Pinfall at 13:56 (Andrews Effect)
MATCH EIGHT
Global Heavyweight Tournament: Semifinals Match
Eddy Todd vs. Samantha Tolson
*DING!* *DING!* *DING!*
The two shake hands briefly before locking up, with Eddy backing Samantha into the corner before breaking clean. Both veterans test the waters against one another, with Eddy using a fireman’s carry to bring Tolson to the mat. She twists out of his attempt at an armbar and is able to trap him in a headscissors, though Eddy powers out quickly, clamping on a chinlock. Samantha extricates herself with surprising ease, managing to pull Eddy into a cradle for a quick two-count, surprising Eddy a bit. He grins and Tolson just smiles back as both get to their feet. They exchange holds and go-behinds on their feet, with Samantha’s speed allowing her to keep Eddy on defense, though his power and experience ensures that she doesn’t keep a grip on him for a long. Eddy blocks a hiptoss, but Samantha ducks the following clothesline and swings up for a crucifix! Eddy spins her off with intent of slamming her to the mat but Tolson shifts her weight and comes down with a hold of Eddy’s arm, almost locking on a crossface before Eddy twists and escapes, getting Tolson in a waistlock and rising, deadlifting her for a German suplex only for Tolson to flip and land on her feet! She backs into the ropes, ducking under Eddy’s elbow, then his clothesline, springing off the middle rope for a bulldog attempt but getting chucked off! She lands on the ropes, then hops back down to the mat, leaving both Eddy AND the crowd impressed!
Todd applauds for a moment and Tolson nods, the two locking up again. Tolson again gets behind Todd, who tries for a moment to break her grip, then reaches between his legs, snatching one of hers and taking her off her feet! Tolson kips up as Eddy is already in motion, with the young lady ducking a big boot from the veteran, who continues to the far side and charges back in, right arm extended! Tolson ducks on instinct and Eddy puts on the brakes, grabbing her by the head and spiking her with a DDT for a near-fall! Tolson is rocked by the unexpected impact as Eddy puts his knowledge to use against a woman known for her own! Tolson is brought up and then back down with a vertical suplex, with Eddy hitting a jumping leg drop for another two-count. Kara Tarantino keeps an eye on things as Eddy throws a few chops before whipping Tolson into the buckles. His charge has to be stopped mid-way as Tolson backs up onto the ropes to avoid it, firing off a few right hands from her sitting position! She grabs Eddy by the head and swings off for a tornado DDT, but as before she’s thrown off! Landing on her feet, she slides between the legs of Todd and brings him down with a backcracker, leaving Todd arched up on the mat! Dragging him to the corner, Tolson blasts him with a running knee to the jaw before going into her Nihon e No Odo (Kicking Combination), blasting Eddy with multiple shots, only backing off at the count of four from Tarantino! Pulling the bigger man up, Tolson throws caution to the wind, locking on a half-nelson choke, a prelude to her Nightfall (Katahajime Suplex) but Eddy grabs the ropes with his free hand, blocking her attempt! A few hard forearm shots to the back of the skull loosens his grip, but his weight comes down on Tolson thanks to a moment of imbalance, putting her in a pinning predicament that she barely escapes from at two-and-a-half!
It seems that Todd landed right on Tolson’s head, or close enough, and the young veteran is groggy. Kara Tarantino asks if she’s all right to continue and Samantha assures her that she is. Eddy asks the same and gets the gesture to bring it from Tolson, which he obliges. He goes low and gets behind Tolson, delivering a German suplex, holding on for a second, then chucking her with a release German that causes another hard landing for Samantha! She gets back up, though, able to surprise Todd with a drop toe hold mid-charge that sends him face-first to the lowest turnbuckle! Leaping up with hands on the top rope, Tolson comes down with both knees to the back of Todd, tugging him away from the ropes and putting on a camel clutch! The old school hold has the Beggar King in dire straits, with Tolson rearing back for all she’s worth! He gets an arm free and powers up, but Tolson drops her body weight on his back again and transitions into a crossface that this time gets locked in completely! Eddy pulls at her hands as Tolson feeds off the crowd, trying to get a submission out of her opponent! Again, though, Eddy breaks out, with Samantha going to a front facelock, trying to give herself time to come around and think of a new strategy. Soon, though, Eddy is on his feet, and a front suplex drops Tolson hard, though the big man is hurting as well. Kara counts Tolson down, but she’s up by seven!
Even Eddy looks concerned at this point, as Tolson just keeps on coming. She barrels right at him, stunning him with an elbow to the jaw, then throwing chops both knife-edge and forehand, backing Eddy into the corner. Shoved back after a fashion, Tolson comes right back in, running into an STO though she holds on to the arm and brings Eddy over and into a cross armbreaker! Straining, Eddy turns over and forces his way up, buckle-bombing Samantha not once, but twice, to break her grip! Slumped in the corner, Tolson is set up on the top rope and taken over with a huge superplex, Eddy floating over into the cover but only getting two-and-five-sixths on the count! In awe of this woman, gesturing to her as the referee shakes her own head, Eddy pulls Tolson up and prepares the Kingdom Come (Flatliner) but Tolson elbows her way out! A jumping single-knee facebreaker rocks Eddy and from there Tolson grabs the head, spinning into the Beautiful Oblivion Rendevous (Cross Rhodes) only for Eddy to grab the middle rope! Slinging herself to the mat from the sheer momentum, Samantha is back up quickly but wavering considerably! Eddy scoops her up for the Execution (Fireman’s Carry Neckbreaker) but Tolson lands on her feet yet again! A jawbreaker on the Beggar King buys the Pretty Little Murder Machine time but Mind Your Head (Running V-Trigger) is evaded and she quickly finds herself atop Eddy’s shoulders before being driven to the mat with Take The Throne (Electric Chair Sit-Out Facebuster), which is just enough to get Todd the three-count!
*DING!* *DING!* *DING!*
Spirit Montego: Your winner… going on to the finals of the Global Heavyweight Tournament… EDDY TODD!
Sitting back against the bottom rope, trying to catch his breath, Eddy has his arm raised briefly by Kara Tarantino before she moves to check on Tolson… which Eddy follows suit in doing. She’s offered a hand, but Tolson gets up on her own, eschewing assistance. Space is given, but respect is shown on Eddy’s part, again shaking Tolson’s hand before leaving the ring and heading backstage. The fans likewise shower Tolson with props as she acknowledges this before leaving the ring herself.
Jacob Frankel: And just like that the finals are set! But after a war like that, does Eddy Todd have enough left in the tank to battle Duke Andrews?!
Bernadette Olson: Honestly, I don’t know. Andrews has had two matches himself, but he tore through Noah Ortega in half the time it took Eddy to defeat Tolson. Not hating on Noah here, but Duke has worked less and rested longer. It’ll be an uphill fight.
Jacob Frankel: And against Andrews, with a similar level of experience… I’m thinking Todd might fall short.
Winner: Eddy Todd
Result: Pinfall at 21:12 (Take The Throne)
Result: Pinfall at 21:12 (Take The Throne)
BACKSTAGE SEGMENT: JESSIE ROBINSON
Always Do Your Best
We cut backstage where we see Jessie Robinson, once again pacing up and down the hallway, the young rookie clearly a nervous little ball of energy right now. They continue pacing as Grace once again approaches them, much more cautiously this time than the first after nearly being hit by the rookie. Jessie turns around, noticing Grace and smiles as they give the girl a quick hug.
Jessie Robinson: Grace! So glad you didn’t sneak up on me this time!
Grace Savoy: Me too. You look like you’re even more nervous than the last time I spoke with you.
Jessie nods their head as they play with the skirt they are wearing, almost like it was a nervous tick of theirs.
Jessie Robinson: Heck yeah I’m nervous. I have the biggest match ever tonight for my second ever match in front of so many amazing fans. Tonight I put it all on the line in a match against five other people where I have to survive not being eliminated! This is super intense and I don’t know what’s gonna happen out there, but I know I’m gonna give it my all for everyone.
Grace Savoy: Last time we saw you in the ring, it was in a losing effort on the very first Vanguard, but that didn’t seem to get you down. In fact, it seemed to have motivated you a little bit.
Jessie Robinson: Heck yeah it did. Look, we all know what happened in that match and the pettiness that is Bianca Davis. She had to have the spotlight all on herself even if that meant not winning a match that we were about to probably win thanks to my amazing new friend Super Tiger. Speaking of Super Tiger, hi ST and good luck tonight! I really, really hope it comes down to the two of us!
Jessie chuckles as she waves adamantly at the camera.
Grace Savoy: What’s your strategy coming into a match like this that’s elimination style?
Jessie Robinson: That’s a super good question. I guess I just need to figure out a way to survive. That’s what Charlie told me anyway. They’re really the bestest person ever. Hi Charlie!
Jessie once again waves right at the camera, a big smile comes across her face.
Jessie Robinson: I know this isn’t gonna be easy for me. Heck, just look at everyone who’s in this match, they’re all so worthy of being the first ever Iron Heart Champion. Tonight, even if I don’t come out as the winner, I’m gonna go out there, do my very bestest and I’m going to make sure people keep remembering who Jessie Robinson is. I’m going to put my heart and soul into my effort tonight and give everything I have to be the one walking away as a champion, but I also know that the odds aren’t very good for me given all the accolades of everyone in this match with me. There’s so much gold between all of them that I could only hope to be as successful as them in my career.
Grace Savoy: Well, I know the Hybrid fans always appreciate people going out there and giving it everything they have no matter the outcome and I’m sure they’ll fall in love with you even more after tonight. Good luck out there.
Jessie Robinson: Thankies, Gracey! I really appreciate it!
Jessie gives Grace another quick hug before they skip off screen with Grace standing there with a smile.
MATCH NINE
Global Tag Team Tournament: Final
2 Broke Chicks vs. The Lost
*DING!* *DING!* *DING!*
The bell sounds and Jane and Anton start things off for their teams. Jane, one to never back down from anyone gets right up into the face of Anton, talking smack before she just delivers a hard slap right across the face and she grins before Anton just grabs her by the neck and tosses her halfway across the ring. Jane hits the mat hard, grabbing at her lower back. Anton walks over and picks Jane up, tossing her with a German suplex that almost sends Jane flying out of the ring. Anton walks over and picks Jane back up, throwing her again with another German suplex as Jane bounces off the mat and grabs at her back and neck. Anton reaches out to his corner where he tags Gio into the match for the first time. Gio comes in and he just picks Jane up as the two of them send Jane into the ropes before they deliver a double clothesline to her. Gio immediately goes for a cover.
ONE…
TWO…
KICK-OUT!
TWO…
KICK-OUT!
Jane shoots right up into a seated position as Gio grabs her and pulls Jane to her feet. Gio sends Jane into the corner and charges in, but Jane is able to get a boot up and drive it into the face of Gio. Jane hops up to the middle rope and leaps, taking him down with a crossbody before she stands up, picking Gio up and showing off her own strength as she grabs Gio and delivers a snap suplex to him. She gets back up, hitting the ropes and leaping, dropping a knee right to the side of the head of Gio before she gets into a mount position and begins to just rain down right and left hands. She gets up, walking over to her corner where she tags in Chiaki.
Chiaki, like a little ball of energy, slingshots in over the top rope before she hits the ropes, leaps over Gio, hitting the opposite side of the ropes and runs the ropes a couple of times before Jane lifts her up and delivers a flapjack with Chiaki landing right on Gio. Jane gives Gio a kick for good measure before she finally gets out of the ring and Chiaki scurries into a cover.
ONE…
TWO…
KICK-OUT!
TWO…
KICK-OUT!
Chiaki screams as she gets back up to her feet, hitting the ropes once again. As she does though, Anton just reaches out, grabbing Chiaki by the hair and pulling her down to the mat. This catches the ire of Jane who tries to get into the ring, but the referee stops her and as she’s being dealt with, Anton gets into the ring, picking Chiaki up with one hand and lifts her high overhead before just tossing her across the ring where she lands with a massive thud. Chiaki is motionless right now as Jane finally gets out of the ring and Anton rolls Gio out to take back over for his team.
Anton once again picks Chiaki up and holds her up by the crown of her head like he’s palming a basketball as Chiaki’s arms and legs are flailing about, tying to hit or break from from Anton. Anton just begins laughing at this before he takes Chiaki and throws her into the corner. Anton comes charging in, looking for a corner splash to squash Chiaki, but she’s able to move out of the way and as Anton comes stumbling out of the corner, Chiaki delivers a chop block to the back of Anton’s knee that takes him down to one knee. Chiaki then hits the ropes and delivers a knee right to the back of Anton’s head and drops him to the mat. Chiaki immediately goes for another cover.
ONE…
CHIAKI IS THROWN OFF POWERFULLY!
CHIAKI IS THROWN OFF POWERFULLY!
Anton gets back up to his feet rather quickly as Chiaki is a little slower. Anton grabs Chiaki and sends her into the ropes and as she rebounds, she eats a big boot right to the face. Anton then tags Gio back into the match and the two of them pick Chiaki up and deliver a flapjack and codebreaker combo to her before Gio goes for a cover.
ONE…
TWO…
KICK-OUT!
TWO…
KICK-OUT!
Jane is on the outside, trying to get the crowd fired up and behind Chiaki who looks to be in a bad spot here. Gio picks Chiaki up and sends her into the corner. Gio charges in, delivering a running forearm right to the face of Chiaki who slumps down in the corner. Gio charges in again and delivers double knees to Chiaki before pulling her out of the corner and going for another cover.
ONE…
TWO…
JANE KICKS GIO IN THE HEAD TO BREAK UP THE PIN!!
TWO…
JANE KICKS GIO IN THE HEAD TO BREAK UP THE PIN!!
Jane charges over, delivering a baseball dropkick to the legs of Anton, sending him off the mat before the ref pulls Jane away and yells at her to get back to her corner. Jane argues and as the ref is distracted yet again, Gio has his hands wrapped around the neck of Chiaki, choking her as the blue haired woman flails and struggles, wanting to break free. Finally, Jane gets out of the ring and Gio releases the choke before he picks Chiaki up and sends her into The Lost Corner. He grabs the attention of the ref as Noah hops up to the ring apron and wraps the tag rope around the throat of Chiaki and begins choking her now as well.
Noah releases it as Gio turns around and tags Anton back into the match. Anton comes in and pulls Chiaki out of the corner and as he lifts Chiaki up in the air, but as he does, Chiaki rakes the eyes of Anton, clawing at his face to free herself. She then delivers a superkick to the knee of Anton that brings him down before she delivers a knee to the side of the head of Anton, but he doesn’t drop. She then hits the ropes again and this time, she delivers a short spikerana that sends Anton’s face bouncing off the mat. Both competitors are laying there in the middle of the ring as Jane is trying to rally Chiaki. Jane hops off the apron and looks under the ring before she gets up, holding out a box of Pocky, shaking it.
The sound of the box immediately causes Chiaki to sit straight up, her eyes go wide as she scurries to the corner and Jane tags in, handing the box to Chiaki who sits in the corner, tearing the box open and just shoving the entire contents right into her mouth in one motion. Jane comes in off the tag, taking Anton out at the knees once again before she charges into the Lost corner and delivers a discus forearm to Gio that knocks him off the apron. She turns back around and Anton is already back up to his feet. Jane yells at Chiaki who yells something right at the ref, drawing their attention in. Jane grins as she delivers a quick low blow to Anton who doubles over in pain before she delivers a spike DDT and Chiaki yells for the ref to turn around as Jane goes for the cover.
ONE…
TWO…
ANTON POWERS OUT, THROWING JANE OFF!
TWO…
ANTON POWERS OUT, THROWING JANE OFF!
Jane gets back up to her feet as Anton is getting up himself. Jane charges in, looking for K.O., Bitch, but Anton is back up to his feet and grabs Jane by the neck and lifts her up, dumping her to the mat with a choke slam. It’s at this point that Chiaki dives off the top rope onto the back of Anton and tries to put him into a sleeper, but he’s able to rag doll Chiaki off him, but this momentary distraction is enough for Jane to deliver a spinning backfist that stuns Anton before she rolls Chiaki out of the ring and tags her in. Chiaki climbs to the top rope, and Jane grabs the much larger Anton and goes to lift him up onto her shoulders. In an impressive display of power, she manages to, but during this, Noah hops up onto the apron and distracts the ref as Gio comes in and takes out the knees of Jane who has Anton collapse right on top of her and she begins to scream out in pain, clutching at her knee, cursing up a storm. As the ref is checking on Jane, Noah shoves Chiaki off the top rope and Anton grabs her as Gio climbs to the top rope and the two of them deliver Feed Them to The Lost as Anton hooks the leg and Noah yells for the ref to count.
ONE…
TWO…
THREE!
TWO…
THREE!
*DING!* *DING!* *DING!*
Spirit Montego: Your winners… and the first-ever HYBRID Global Tag Team Champions… THE LOST!
Bernadette Olson: And what a match! These two teams tore through the tournament fiercely but tonight it was The Lost coming out on top!
Noah Ortega, still at ringside, applauds his charges for their victory before joining them in the ring. Gio and Anton hold the belts up high as the fans boo, clearly having been on the side of the Broke Chicks. Chiaki, still hurting from the interference, is checked on by Jane, both women looking furious about the result.
Jacob Frankel: It won’t be the last time they clash, I think, Bernadette! Jane and Chiaki are gonna want a fair shot at The Lost after this!
Bernadette Olson: As well they should! For now, though, the night belongs to The Lost!
Winner: The Lost (New Champions)
Result: Pinfall at 27:17 (Feed Them To The Lost)
Result: Pinfall at 27:17 (Feed Them To The Lost)
BACKSTAGE SEGMENT: STEPHANIE KENYON
Kick It!
The camera opens upon Stephanie Kenyon sitting on a dirt bike, seemingly ready to cut out and ride for her life.
Stephanie Kenyon: Y’all, six of us? Oh this is my kind of race! When you get off to a hot start and then you gotta go balls to the wall and take it or you ain’t gonna end up where you wanna be!"
She nods as she adjusts the way she’s sitting so that she can better show her hands to the camera.
Stephanie Kenyon: You look at this one and say there’s two former champs and then four rookies who ain’t won nothin’ yet but you know what? That’s what makes us all dangerous in this situation.
She starts going down a list on her hand as if it’s actually written there.
Stephanie Kenyon: Aiden Morrow and Super Tiger have both climbed mountains before. In Tiggy’s case, she’s climbed the highest mountain and she’s still young enough to make her the greatest ever if she keeps ridin’ the way she has been!
Pausing, she allowed herself a pointed nod before patting the handlebars.
Stephanie Kenyon: Alicia, Jessie, Rob and me… we’re are all just startin’ our climb. All six of us enter this race to win the Iron Heart Championship. I am going to enjoy every single second of this because I love to compete and I love to do that by the seat of my pants. If It means I go ass over tea kettle, them’s the breaks.
She moves to be properly straddling the bike and hits the kickstarter.
Stephanie Kenyon: Y’all ready to kick this pig?
She nod and then peels out, kicking up dirt as she goes.
BACKSTAGE SEGMENT: SUPER TIGER
Always Changing, Ever Growing
Super Tiger: Here we are everyone. The moment we've all been waiting for.
Super Tiger is facing into her locker. The Diminutive Dynamo is getting ready for her match, and she's fully dressed except for one final touch. She doesn't turn around before starting to speak.
Super Tiger: The rebirth of HYBRID, so far, has been for the ages. Multiple five star talents in five star matches.
She sighs, and snaps her fingers.
Super Tiger: Oh. Right. Bianca Davis is also here. Hitting me with a scepter and costing Jessie Robinson, absolutely adorbs, by the way, and I that trios match because she absolutely has to be the center of attention. Literally everywhere she goes. I've known her three years, like a viral infection that won't go away no matter how many…
She takes a breath, visibly composing herself.
Super Tiger: Aaaaaanyway… tonight is the night that HYBRID will see the crowning of it's very first ever Iron Heart Champion. Gotta say, I'm pretty stoked to be in this match!
Finally, Risa pulls on her mask, lacing it up with fingers that have almost inhuman dexterity. A reflexive skill she'd been using since she'd received her very first Tiger mask at thirteen years old. She turns around, eyes burning with the white hot passion for the business she'd been literally born into.
Super Tiger: Tonight, I will enter that ring with some of the best talent HYBRID has to offer. As always, I'm not the strongest. I'm not the biggest. I'm not even the person with the most veteran status! Plus there are serious wildcards in this match to consider.
Risa grins, winking at the camera as she bends down and throws her bag into her locker.
Super Tiger: But if there's one thing I can do. One thing I'll always do. Rise above. No matter who I face. Where I face them. I will never, ever back down.
Super Tiger straightens her mask, flashes a smile, and then strikes her signature pose. Head tilted to the side and working, peace sign next to her open eye with a huge smile.
Super Tiger: So let's get this going! HYBRID! My loyal and loving fans! You all know what time it is!
She grins, feet now shoulder width apart, pointing up and looking at the ceiling.
Super Tiger: ALWAYS CHANGING!
The crowd chants along, the volume increasing to a dull roar.
Super Tiger: EVER GROWING!!
Nearly everyone is on their feet, louder now.
Super Tiger: CONSTANTLY EVOLVING!!! SUPER TIGER RESU!!! IRON HEART CHAMPIONSHIP EDITION!!! READY?! GO!!!
With one final wink at the camera, she bursts out of the locker room at a sprint, ready to get things started! Cameras then cut to the ringside area!
MATCH TEN
Savage Six-Way Elimination Match for the Iron Heart Championship
Alicia Flaherty vs. Stephanie Kenyon vs. Aiden Morrow vs. Super Tiger vs. Jessie Robinson vs. Robert Marino
*DING!* *DING!* *DING!*
There’s a long pause at the start of the match, each competitor looking at one another, trying to figure out where the danger is and where an alliance might be made. Aiden Morrow is the first to move, going for Robert Marino as Super Tiger and Alicia Flaherty clash, leaving Jessie Robinson to clash with the larger, stronger Stephanie Kenyon! It becomes chaos quickly, with Aiden and Robert slugging it out for a time before Robert sends Morrow over the top rope with a clothesline! Jessie is quick to follow, military-pressed and chucked over the top rope, landing in the arms of Aiden, knocking both down! Tiger and Alicia trade shots until the faster Tiger catches her adversary with a few unanswered kicks to the midsection, then a spinning kick to the head that knocks Flaherty to the mat! Stephanie homes in on Tiger then, lifting her with a chickenwing hold, perhaps seeking to slam her to the mat… but Tiger reverses it into a pinning predicament! She has to let go, though, as Robert looks to deliver a basement clothesline to the masked woman! Kenyon responds to the save with Tastes Like Timbaland Boot, Bitch! (Pump Kick) to the head of Marino, knocking him loopy and sending him to the floor! Alicia leaps on the blonde’s back, but a backpack stunner allows Stephanie to dispose of her high-energy attacker as well! Tiger’s right there to whip Stephanie around and the two trade forearm shots, an exchange Stephanie gets the better of! She moves to send Tiger to the outside, adding to the pile, but the Irish whip is reversed! A Both Barrels (Shotgun Dropkick) sends Kenyon through the top and middle strands to the floor and Tiger wastes no time running up the turnbuckles and sailing to the floor with a corkscrew plancha, wiping out the rest of the field in one fell swoop!
Rolling Flaherty back into the ring, Tiger heads in after her and stuns the youngster with a kick to the midsection. A running knee misses as the quicker-at-the-moment Flaherty leans out of the way, with Tiger hitting the ropes and twisting her way out of a back body drop, landing on her feet and suckering Alicia in for the Tiger Whirl (Tilt-A-Whirl Crossface) submission!
Spirit Montego: Alicia Flaherty has been eliminated!
The announcement has barely stopped when Stephanie Kenyon comes back into the ring, knocking the masked woman for a full flip with a hard lariat! Kenyon stalks Tiger as Robert Marino rolls back into the ring, allowing the powerful lady to nail The Dreaming (Implant DDT) before making his move, delivering Independence Doom (Punt Kick) to the side of Kenyon’s head! A rolling cradle follows but somehow Kenyon kicks out at two, leading to Marino going for a German suplex but having his opponent flip out of it! A dropkick to the back of Robert sends him into the ropes and right there is Aiden Morrow with a swinging kick to blast him in the head! Marino staggers, but has the sense to duck a charge from Stephanie, who runs into Aiden instead! Bringing up the knee, Aiden catches her flush and flips over the ropes for a sunset flip! Jessie Robinson is back up at this point, slingshotting to the top strand and sailing off OVER Aiden as he pins Stephanie for two, delivering a cross body to Marino! Robert rolls backwards and comes up with Jessie in his arms! He swings her out for a side slam as Kenyon and Morrow brawl, with Tiger back up on her feet! Tiger blocks the move, letting Jessie land on her feet, but Morrow cracks the masked woman with a back elbow before trying to set up the Drone Drop (A-Town Down) on Jessie! Robinson holds on long enough for Tiger to assist again, with the two delivering a tandem slingshot suplex on Morrow! The celebration is short-lived, though, as Stephanie knocks both women into the ropes and spikes Jessie with a Kiss-Off… first to the back of the head, then to the chin! Morrow tackles Tiger out of the ring as Robinson goes down, with Kenyon making the cover!
Spirit Montego: Jessie Robinson has been eliminated!
Marino attacks the moment Kenyon gets up, not giving the blonde any room to maneuver as he delivers the Drone Drop, folding up Stephanie and scoring a quick pin!
Spirit Montego: Stephanie Kenyon has been eliminated!
Morrow tries to do unto Marino as Marino did unto Kenyon, but Robert is able to hold off Aiden, rebounding from a knee to the back with a roaring elbow that knocks Morrow to the mat! Morrow kips up fast, though, ducking a high kick from Marino and delivering a backdrop! Marino is up quickly but almost walks into a suplex from Morrow! A knee downwards to the crown of Morrow’s head lets Marino slip out and a Dragon suplex is delivered for a count of two on Morrow, who comes up with a bull-rush into the corner, driving Marino back-first into the buckles as Tiger makes her way back into the ring. The men slug it out as Tiger strikes Morrow with Both Barrels, causing him to crash into Marino ferociously! Tiger vaults to the top rope as both men stagger back, perhaps thinking Flight of the Tiger (Rotating Frog Splash), but Marino is somehow able to get to his feet and ascend the ropes before Tiger can set herself! The two battle it out on the top rope, with Morrow soon joining them! A three-way battle commences with Morrow knocked off with a high-risk version of Tiger’s Family Legacy (Standing Shiranui), sending both hard to the mat! Tiger barely has time to look up, then roll away, with Marino coming down with the Devil Dog Death (Coup De Grace), landing flush on the chest of his opponent! Tiger fires off a superkick at Marino, but is powerbombed on top of Morrow for her efforts, leading to Marino making the pin on Morrow!
Spirit Montego: Aiden Morrow has been eliminated!
Tiger is still out of sorts as Marino turns his attention to her, trying to stay out of sight as he looks for that Drone Drop. He makes the grab but Tiger escapes, bringing Marino down with a spinning headscissors! He’s back up on his feet and charging in but a drop toe hold leaves him smacking his face against the middle buckles! Tiger backs off, getting some momentum, but Both Barrels misses, causing her to land hard on her head! Marino folds her up for the pin, but she kicks out just before three! Independence Doom is narrowly evaded and Tiger’s Tiger Pounce (Springboard Spinning European Uppercut) almost spells the end for the former Marine! He still kicks out at two, though, and again tries for that vaunted Drone Drop but instead turns it into the Midnight Meeting (Dirty Deeds), the pin only broken up when Tiger gets a foot on the bottom rope! Frustration sets in as Marino keeps laying in the boots and forearms to Tiger, backing her into the corner and hitting a clothesline, then backing all the way to the far corner for a second one! He heads up to the top after Tiger hits the mat, setting up for Death Defying (Twisted Bliss) but Tiger rolls close to the buckles, stalling Marino’s attack! He instead goes for Devil Dog Death but Tiger evades again! Marino rolls post-impact, coming up and turning to attack Tiger, who delivers a second Tiger Pounce! Rocking on one foot, Marino refuses to fall, going in for the attack again! He shoulders Tiger into the buckles and scoops her up for a buckle bomb, only for the masked star to use a headscissors takedown to send him hard into the buckles himself! Vaulting to the top, Tiger delivers Flight of the Tiger to the downed Marino and gets the three-count!
*DING!* *DING!* *DING!*
Spirit Montego: Ladies and gentlemen, your winner… and the first-ever HYBRID Iron Heart Champion… SUPER TIGER!
Frustration is apparent with Marino, who got his shoulder up just a split-second after three. But after a few moments he settles down and even raises the arm of the new champion, who is positively elated to be the champion. She holds the belt up high and the crowd rains down applause on her in response!
Bernadette Olson: Super Tiger guts out a big win tonight to become the Iron Heart Champion and I don’t think there’s a person in this place who isn’t happy about it!
Jacob Frankel: Even Robert Marino showed respect! And he came within a hair of winning himself! But… I can think of at least one person who probably isn’t happy right now.
Bernadette Olson: Yeah, well, I personally don’t care what she thinks.
Jacob Frankel: I’m not gonna argue with you on that one!
Winner: Super Tiger (New Champion)
Result: Pinfall at 22:46 (Flight of the Tiger)
Result: Pinfall at 22:46 (Flight of the Tiger)
BACKSTAGE SEGMENT: SUPER TIGER
Friends Like These
Backstage, after a commercial break, an exhausted but exultant Super Tiger is standing by with Grace Savoy, all smiles as she has the Iron Heart Championship over her shoulder. Grace, too, is taken by the excitement, smiling as well as she brings up the microphone.
Grace Savoy: Ladies and gentlemen, I’m here with the newly-crowned Iron Heart Champion, Super Tiger!
Super Tiger: And Grace, it feels positively amazing! Being champion is already awesome, but to be the first-ever champion? Knowing that’ll be in a history book someday? That’s THREE TIMES as amazing!
Tiger gazes fondly at the belt for a few moments as Grace poses her question.
Grace Savoy: Now, surely you know that this championship could be seen as a gateway to the Global Heavyweight Championship. It can be relinquished for a shot at that belt at any time. Do you think you want to take that shot, or will you hold on to this title instead?
The question makes Tiger think for a few moments, her smile giving way to a thoughtful but still pleasant expression. She taps her fingertip against her lips, then grins.
Super Tiger: Maybe one day I’ll take that gamble! But right now, I want to make this title something special by holding on to it for a while! After all, I’m the first champion! It’s on me to set the standard, wouldn’t you say?
Grace Savoy: I agree with that sentiment wholeheartedly! So, who do you think will emerge as your first opponent?
Once again contemplative, Tiger seriously considers… but out of nowhere a form rushes into view, slamming into the masked champion and sending her to the floor roughly, the title slipping from her grasp. As the camera tries to right itself…
Grace Savoy: Hey, wait a minute!
Simple Simon: You keep your mouth shut in the presence of the Queen of HYBRID! Speak ONLY when spoken to!
The voice of Simple Simon as he stomps up in his royal employer’s wake reveals the identity of Super Tiger’s attacker: Bianca Davis. She rights her crown as she stands over the new champion, wielding her now-bent scepter. Half-seething, half-smiling, Bianca brings the makeshift weapon down on Tiger’s back a few times, then on her shoulder, attacking the same limb that was worked over in the match mere minutes ago!
Bianca Davis: Not feeling like a champion now, are you, you mask-wearing peasant?! You need to remember your place! I am, and will always be, superior to criminals like you! Criminals who steal my victories and my spotlight!
Simple Simon: Criminal! That means you, Super Kitty!
Bianca Davis: And speaking of little interview girl’s question…
Bianca picks up the dropped championship, delivering another shot to the back of Tiger when she starts getting up, and gazes at the gold.
Bianca Davis: I demand that you polish this to a proper shine! Because after I beat you, I want to see my gorgeous, royal face reflected in it!
Simple Simon cackles as Bianca holds up the title and her bent scepter as though the former already belonged to her… but his laughter turns into a shirek of warning as someone comes running in, swinging what looks like a mop snatched right from the bucket! Dirty water sprays the wall as it’s swung, barely missing the crown atop Bianca’s head! She drops the scepter and title, making a beeline for safety while Simon gets a face full of old mop and floor dirt when he tries to retrieve his queen’s scepter! He goes scrambling off after her, shouting threats as he retreats!
Jessie Robinson comes into view, waving the cleaning implement threateningly, though she quickly drops it when they’re gone, checking on Super Tiger along with Grace. Tiger seems okay for the most part, with Jessie handing her the title and helping her to her feet, as a good friend should.
Super Tiger: That bratty little snot…
Jessie Robinson: She isn’t gonna get away with this, Risa! I got your back! Don’t worry!
Tiger smiles as Jessie puts the title back over her shoulder, putting her arm around her friend.
Super Tiger: Thanks for that. Let’s get outta here.
The two make their way down the hall as Grace looks on.
BACKSTAGE SEGMENT: EDDY TODD
Just a Number
We cut to show Eddy Todd in his locker room. He is sitting in a chair putting on fresh wrist tape. His hair is disheveled and slightly damp with sweat. He finishes with his wrist tape and tosses the roll into his bag with a sigh. He takes a deep breath and slowly exhales through his nose. As he does, Mikaela Callaway walks up behind him. She is out of her ring gear and wearing her casual clothes. She puts her hands on his shoulders and gives him a little massage.
Mikaela Callaway: You doin alright, babe?
Eddy reaches back with one hand and places it on one of hers. He then looks back over his shoulder with a tired smile.
Eddy Todd: Yeah. Just starting to feel my age tonight. And I still have the biggest challenge yet to go through.
Mikaela Callaway: You’ve done amazing tonight. You even eliminated that bitch Tolson.
Eddy Todd: Yeah. I had to after all, didn’t I? Get one back for my girl? Honestly, I’m glad I didn’t have to face you. I would have and I wouldn’t have held back. Cause I wouldn’t insult you like that. And I know you wouldn’t have either. It just would have been the hardest match of the night for me.
Mikaela Callaway: It would have sucked yes. But it didn’t. And even if it had, there wouldn’t have been any issues. It’s business. Though I’ll admit I did enjoy watching you beat her ass. Just like I’m gonna love watching you beat Duke’s ass and take that title. YOUR title.
Eddy chuckles slightly.
Eddy Todd: Yeah? I planned on giving him all the payback he deserves and then some. One more match, one dumb son of a bitch, and I have that title. Prove to everyone that I can do this without the mask.
Mikaela Callaway: No one has ever said that. Well, at least no one that matters. You’ve always been that guy. I’ve watched all of Ashe’s catalog of matches. I was always impressed with you when you tagged with him. I even looked into your work solo. And you were always amazing. Fuck everyone who doesn’t believe in you. Because I do. And I matter WAY more than those assholes.
Eddy laughs loudly at that.
Eddy Todd: That’s right. No one matters more to me in this world than you. If you believe in me that means I got it. I mean, I’d hate to let down the one that matters most. Wouldn’t want my Princess to think less of me.
Mikaela Callaway: I never would. Now, how about you get out there and win that title? Next time I see you I want to see it over your shoulder. Where it belongs.
Mikaela leans down and gives Eddy a kiss on the cheek. He smiles and stands up. He turns around to look at her.
Eddy Todd: You’ve got it, Princess.
Mikaela moves around the chair and picks up Eddy’s entrance coat. She helps him put it on and then leans up and steals a quick kiss from him.
Mikaela Callaway: Kick his ass and win that belt.
Eddy smiles and nods. He heads toward the door and looks back at her.
Eddy Todd: Maybe I’ll let you hold it. If you’re a good girl.
He gives her a wink before walking out the door and towards gorilla position.
MATCH ELEVEN
Global Heavyweight Tournament: Finals
Duke Andrews vs. Eddy Todd
*DING!* *DING!* *DING!*
Duke looks Eddy up and down with disdain, smirking as the Beggar King paces back and forth on the other side of the ring. All the potshots on Twitter, all the sniping across Vanguard, it all comes to a head now. Duke, however, puts a stop to Eddy’s sudden approach by rolling out of the ring, senior official Butch Ward keeping Eddy from following as Duke gives a gesture toward the big screen, showing his match several weeks ago with Mikaela Callaway… and his violent victory. Applauding himself, Duke rolls back into the ring as Butch keeps Eddy at a distance… only for Duke to charge and clothesline Eddy almost out of his boots over the official’s head! Ward gives Andrews an earful but Duke couldn’t give less of a damn, taking a knee and firing off a few rights to the head of Eddy before grabbing him by the ears and bouncing his head off the canvas, trash-talking all the while! A headbutt leaves Todd groggy and still on his back as Duke finally backs off, laughing at Ward’s threats of disqualification. Resting in the far corner, Duke gestures for the senior official to “wake Eddy up” while the fans heap boos on The Top Heel! And, perhaps to their delight, or simply their desire to see Duke smashed, Eddy DOES get to his feet! A shoulder charge immediately puts him in the corner, though, and Duke’s Red, White & Blue Combo (AJ Styles Striking Combination) wears Eddy down. Still on his feet, Eddy ducks another discus lariat from Duke, shoving him chest-first into the buckles and throwing a hard, open-handed slap to the face of Michigan’s Favorite Sun! Duke’s grin turns into a snarl but Eddy double-legs him to the mat and grabs a hold of Duke’s head, driving down hard forearm shots to the jaw as Butch Ward tries to get between these two beasts and keep the match from an unsatisfactory ending!
Eddy relents only when Duke blocks a shot and shoves him out of the ring between the bottom and middle ropes, but Eddy is back up and grabbing Duke by the head, dragging him beneath the bottom strand and bouncing his head off the hardest part of the ring apron! Then a second time! And a third! And then Eddy just grinds Duke’s head against that part of the ring before blasting him in the back of the cranium with an elbow. Duke’s shoulders shake though as he rolls away, revealing laughter from the vile Andrews! Eddy, staring at this from outside the ring, makes a “what the fuck” gesture before getting back into the ring and grabbing the kneeling Andrews from behind, just ramming fists south to the man’s forehead! He breaks at four, then hits the ropes and blasts Duke with a knee to the skull, knocking him down and leading to a pin attempt for a VERY short two-count! Duke, pulled to his feet, reverses an Irish whip and crams an elbow into the jaw of Todd, following up with a stunner-like maneuver that leaves Eddy clutching his chin in pain! Eddy turns and Duke boots him dangerously low in the bread basket before military-pressing him and showing off his considerable power, dropping Todd over his shoulder and powerslamming him to the mat, getting a two-count off the pin! Checking his own chin, then his head, Duke snarls and grabs Eddy up by the throat, shoving him into the buckles and following him in with a body splash! Backing into the far buckles, he delivers a second one, snares the head of Eddy, and drills him with a DDT for another two-count!
Said kick-out rubs Duke the wrong way, so he grabs a front facelock again and drives a few knees into the chest and midsection of the Beggar King before heaving him up and delivering a stalling vertical suplex that lasts a good fifteen seconds before Todd is slammed to the mat. Clearly recalling the assault on Todd’s back a few matches ago, Andrews puts his boot to the small of Eddy’s back and grabs the arms, wrenching back to put as much pressure on the spine as possible. Throwing in a few C4 stomps for good measure, Duke wants to literally stomp out Eddy’s title hopes. He does not give in to arrogance, though, and keeps up the assault with a half-nelson suplex, dumping Eddy hard on his head and shoulders to exacerbate his suffering, folding him up for a close near-fall. Another Irish whip to the buckles adds to Todd’s pain, but he comes out firing rights and lefts, backing up Duke to the middle of the ring! A knee cuts that off, and a Crossroads (Leghook Reverse DDT) puts Todd back down, with Duke transitioning into a Boston crab to really lay in the hurt! He rears back several times on the hold, and pulls Todd from the ropes a couple times before his leg is grabbed, putting him off-balance enough for Eddy to escape. Duke still hangs on till four-and-a-half, brushing off the senior official’s warnings and putting the boots to the back of Eddy before forcing him out of the ring beneath the bottom rope. Dropping the Beggar King chest-first over the barricade, Duke is shocked when Eddy throws a low elbow, doubling up the Epitome of Perfection! Having just barely blocked the brunt of the drop, Eddy throws all he has left into striking the powerhouse that is Andrews, picking him up around the waist and driving him back-first into the ring post! He charges Andrews, but his arm gets wrapped around the post instead of Duke’s neck, and Andrews shoves him head-first into the metal before rolling him back in the ring, clutching his own back briefly!
Duke, ascending to the apron, steps between the ropes but Eddy kicks the middle strand, putting Michigan’s Favorite Son in a dangerous position! Stepping back onto the apron, Duke takes a shoulder to the midsection, then a few hard kicks to the midsection while draped over the middle rope! A draping DDT follows but Andrews kicks out at two while Eddy is seemingly running on fumes! His arm is clearly bothering him and Duke takes advantage, blocking a punch and shoving Eddy shoulder-first into the buckles… before ramming him between the buckles and into the post once again! Dragged out, Eddy elbows his way out of a German suplex attempt, but takes a headbutt to the back of the skull and eats a reverse DDT for a close near-fall! On a knee, Duke has a moment where he stares at Todd, wondering what the hell it’s gonna take. Shaking it off, he calls for the end and drags the Beggar King up, looking for the Andrews Effect… but Eddy knows what’s coming and escapes a moment before Duke can get hold of him, hitting a full-nelson bomb on Duke that leaves both men laid out! Butch Ward checks them both, then starts a count…
”ONE… TWO… THREE… FOUR…”
…with the crowd counting along! Duke starts to stir around five, with Todd not moving till nearly seven, the crowd booing Andrews but breaking into some cheers as Eddy starts to rise. Duke puts an end to the adulation by raking the laces of his boots against the side of Todd. This wakes up the Beggar King a bit and he kicks Duke into the ropes, grabbing him upon his return for Kingdom Come but Duke fights out of it and delivers a neckbreaker! Keeping hold, Duke tries to twist Eddy into his ever-dangerous Goodnight Now! (Gogoplata) with Todd fighting every step of the way, finally pushing Duke close enough to the ropes that he’s able to break the hold before Andrews can get it fully locked in! Turning it into an armlock with the head scissored, Duke literally hangs off the apron, wrenching on Eddy for the four seconds allowed before letting go, leaving Todd a mess in the ring before re-entering himself. Both men are spent by this point, slugging it out with Duke getting the better of it. Another Andrews Effect attempt ends with Todd managing a surprise victory roll for a near-fall, leading to the Kingdom Come out of nowhere! He rolls into a cover with the near leg hooked…
ONE…
TWO…
THR-NO!
SHOULDER UP!
TWO…
THR-NO!
SHOULDER UP!
…but Duke kicks out, leaving Eddy in wide-eyed shock! Shoving Eddy away, Duke nails a shot that appears to be below the belt while the referee isn’t looking, leaving Eddy doubled-up in pain! The Andrews Effect is loaded and connects, driving Todd to the mat with Duke holding on for the pin!
ONE…
TWO…
THREE?!
NO! EDDY GRABS THE BOTTOM ROPE BEFORE THREE!
TWO…
THREE?!
NO! EDDY GRABS THE BOTTOM ROPE BEFORE THREE!
Duke is incensed when he’s shown two fingers, shoving Eddy’s arm from the ropes and getting back to his feet! He lets out a guttural roar and demands that Todd get up! Eddy rises with the ropes, staggers, turns around… and finds himself again in the Goodnight Now! Yanked down, Andrews gets all of it this time, wrenching for all he’s worth to choke out the Beggar King! Eddy flails a bit, looking for a way out but starts to fade in short order with Butch Ward raising his arm…
”ONE…”
…only for it to drop! A second lift!
”TWO…”
And a second time it falls! The arm is raised for the final time…
…and stays up! Andrews, wide-eyed, wrenches harder on his grip as Eddy changes his approach, pushing with his legs and forcing the shoulders of Andrews down to the mat! Butch Ward drops down to count the pin!
ONE…
TWO…
TWO…
…but spots Eddy with a hand on the ropes! The pin is broken, but by the same virtue so is the submission! Andrews clings to the grip before the threat of disqualification finally makes him relent. Eddy is back on his feet and a seething Andrews looks to finish him off… storming right into Kingdom Come! Eddy hooks the far leg with his good arm, leaning into the cover…
ONE…
TWO…
THREE?!
THREE!
*DING!* *DING!* *DING!*
TWO…
THREE?!
THREE!
*DING!* *DING!* *DING!*
Both men are laid out on the mat, with Eddy barely having the energy to roll off Andrews as the bell tolls. The fans let out a roar, though, and Eddy finds it in him to sit up as the referee calls for the championship, placing it in his tentative grip!
Spirit Montego: Ladies and gentlemen, your winner… and the first-ever HYBRID Global Heavyweight Champion… EDDY TODD!
Duke rolls out of the ring, clutching his head and wincing in pain. Eddy, leaned against the bottom rope for support, is staring at the championship as though he’s afraid it’ll turn to smoke. “Save Yourself” hits the sound system and the crowd is on their feet. Mikaela Callaway comes to the ring to check on Eddy as well as congratulate him, helping him to his feet so that his arm can be properly raised!
Bernadette Olson: What a war! Those two titans beat the dog outta one another, but somehow the Beggar King pulled off the win!
Jacob Frankel: I’m just in awe here, Bernadette! Several times I thought Duke would put Eddy away! But he gutted it out every damn time!
Bernadette Olson: Bet your ass that Duke will not stop trying to get his hands on that title. And I’d put money on it being around his waist one day.
Jacob Frankel: That wouldn’t make me sad! He’s kind of an asshole, but the man can go! For now, though, it’s time to celebrate the new champion!
You can tell from the look in Duke’s eyes that he’s not done. He leaves things be in the ring, but locks eyes with Eddy to send a clear message that this isn’t done between them. Eddy nods in response while Mikaela looks between the two with some concern. As “Save Yourself” keeps playing, the front office comes out onto the stage, Aloysius Marcus Vance IV at the fore, applauding the new champion. And then the confetti starts, ending the third episode of Vanguard!
Winner: Eddy Todd (New Champion)
Result: Pinfall at 28:17 (Kingdom Come)
Result: Pinfall at 28:17 (Kingdom Come)