MNB #418 - PITTSBURGH

[President Mac]

WARNING: This live event contains stunts performed by professionals or under the supervision of professionals and maybe unsuitable for younger viewers. Accordingly EWC and it's producers must insist that no one attempt to recreate or re-enact any stunt or activity performed in this live event.

The Extreme Wrestling Corporation presents

MONDAY NIGHT BRAWL

EPISODE 418



^{Monday Night Brawl is a professional wrestling television program for Extreme Wrestling Corporation (EWC) that currently airs on ESPN, Spike, SkySports, huluPLUS and TSN2 in Canada. The shows name, which is sometimes stylized as MNB, is also used to refer to the Brawl brand, in which EWC employees are assigned to work and perform on that program. The show originally debuted in North America on the CTV & ESPN Network on April 7,1997. It remained there for a number of years until Brawl was moved to SPIKE TV and SYFY. In 2008, the show was moved to Showtime HD, SciFi HD, SkySports and the new TSN2. Since its launch in 1997, Brawl continues to air on Monday nights. Brawl is generally seen as the company's flagship program due to its longer history, higher ratings, and emphasis on pay-per-views. It is the second longest running weekly episodic television show in history}

Live from the EWC STADIUM in Pittsburgh, PA

EWC BRAWL
March 16th 2015
Live From the EWC Stadium in Pittsburgh, PA
Commentators: Joe Aiello & Jeremy Piven
Announcer: Jessica Stroup
Head Ref: Earl Hebner
Backstage help: Ace Heart

"Follow" by Breaking Benjamin blasts in the Stadium.

The show starts off with video footage detailing historic events over Monday Night Brawls Eighteen year history. From episode 001 all the way down to last weeks episode 417.

Images of previous EWC Champions are shown, starting with the very first Champion Black Ninja, then moving onto Big Mac and Steve Bennett. Sped up footage then shows a special montage of Memphis Reigns, Shadow Man, Hirsh Valentine, Jesse Nunez, Hurricane Jeff, Moses Lake, James Chambers, BDC, Jay Cee, Stray, Gladiator and then The Rev all with the World Championship.

The video continues to go on and shows President Mac, Xplode, Jon Goldberg, Michael Saint and BDC all in Staff roles.

There is a pause as the video package splits in half, one half dedicated to Memphis Reigns & the other half dedicated to MadDawg with the final wording ..




"In Loving Memory ... We will never forget"




The opening pyros hit and here we go.

The energy in the EWC Stadium is electrifying.

Spotlights circle around the arena as the 65,000+ fans in the venue are shown in a wide angle shot. The camera then pans out showing a full scale view of the jam packed arena and zooms in on some crazy fans.

We can see hundreds of signs with:

A chant begins of

MNB

MNB

MNB

MNB

MNB

MNB

MNB

MNB

The fans in the arena cheer loudly as fireworks emit from the stage area! The explosions continue to rock the arena repeatedly, causing the fans to cheer with each burst. The explosions finally come to an end just short of the entrance area, finishing off with a finale consisting of a smokey display. As the fans continue to cheer, the theme song for Monday Night Brawl starts to play! The television feed promptly switches to the announcer's booth.

Sitting at the announcer's booth is Joey Aiello and Jeremy Piven. Sitting with a smile upon his face, Joey looks at the camera, a dark brown shirt upon his torso that reads "BRAWL".

Joey Aiello: Hello and welcome to another exciting evening of Monday Night Brawl. Tonight, we have a jam packed card to deal with as the best of the best in the EWC, square off for ring supremacy as we prepare for Stranglemania X!

Jeremy Piven: That's right. this new era of the EWC has proven to be a top ranked set of talent, and each week they have dazzled like we have not seen in years. This Era of.. X.. has been completely successful.

Joey Aiello: Last week, the ratings finally slipped a bit. Some feel this is due in part to the absence of the General Manager, Xplode, on live programming. This could very well be true but that should change tonight.. as X has returned. The question is, where has he been? There have been rumors that the General Manager has embarked on a talent search across the globe. That is the sign of a true businessman.

Jeremy Piven: There also have been rumors of discontent between the President and the General Manager as well. In the past, the two have been very close and have functioned like a well oiled machine. With Xplode's recent push for a more hardcore styled promotion, this has sent shock waves into the front office as sponsors across the board have expressed their concern for the product that they are supporting. Regardless, no one can argue with the surge in popularity of the EWC under Xplode's watch though.

The lights dim down... "I stand alone" by Godsmack begins to play. The crowd knows instantly who is about to appear on the rampway as they stand up and cheer loudly!

Joey Aiello: And here he is.. the General Manager of the EWC, Xplode. Tonight, he is expected to make a major announcement. I can't wait to hear what he has to say.

Stepping out un to the stage, Xplode nods his head. He is dressed in sharp suit and tie. Walking down the rampway, he stops at ringside and looks around the arena as the fans reach out or bow in his direction in a sign of respect. Stepping into the ring, he accepts a microphone and waits for the fans to calm down before speaking.

Xplode: I never get tired of hearing all of you scream my name. Each time I step out here, you all remind me as to why I do what I do in this ring. I accept that respect, and I offer it back.

The fans continue to cheer loudly as Xplode nods his head in return. Signs of "The ERA OF X" wave behind him.

Xplode: The Era of X.. it has a damn ring to it. You know, when I stepped into this ring as the General Manager for the first time, I never would have guessed that the moves that I have made would have made the impact that they have. To see this company rise out from the flames and reach the pinnacle of sports entertainment once again like it has in the past.. it's a good thing for us all. Let's give credit where credit is due though. None of this would have been possible without the support of President Mac. He is the heart of this company no matter how much I flip this.. I respect that. Though we both have our way of running the business, one thing that we both can agree on is that the EWC should be the number one promotion in the world. We will achieve this... no matter the cost.

The fans begin cheering once more as Xplode paces the ring.

Joey Aiello: WOW! Xplode just gave credit to President Mac?! Perhaps those rumors were just... rumors?

Xplode waits for the applause to die down before speaking once more.

Xplode: Over the last few weeks, I have searched high and low for the newest talent in the business. I have been looking for the next big thing and I believe that I may have found it. The world has seen enough of the cookie cutter types of competitors. Sure, those types are the ones who laid the foundation for this business, and I recognize that. To truly move forward though, I knew that the EWC needed something fresh. We needed a man who was not afraid to shake the status quo. I needed a person who would represent my vision for this company, and after looking everywhere- 

The fans stand up at the video screen that is suspended above the entrance area. With his face in full view, a bearded man laughs as he interrupts Xplode in mid-sentence.

Man: OH MIGHTY XPLODE.... the ERA OF X HAS TRULY BEGUN! (Laughing)  For so long, I have yearned to rise to the top! I was lost.. and now I have been found! Your words are hypnotizing to me. I must say, that while you were so right about a great many things that you have just said, there was one glaring fault in what you have just expressed.

Xplode: You better have a damn good reason for interrupting me out here. Who in the hell are you?

Brett Black leans into the screen for a close up of his face.

Man: I.. am Brett Black. The people behind me are my family. You see, you have a keen eye, and that is why you must trust me. Understand that I am a man of my word, of integrity, OF FAITH! LOYALTY IS MY STRONGEST TRAIT!

Xplode: Where are you going with this?

Brett Black: WHERE I AM GOING... is that you need not thank President Mac for anything, Mr. X. The sweet grapes of success has been shared to us solely by you.. and you alone.. with the EWC. Everything that it is in it's current form, is due in part to you. Hardcore at it's heart is the birth of professional wrestling. IT'S PUREST FORM OF AGGRESSION IS A NECTAR THAT THIS INDUSTRY NEEDS TO BREATHE!! (laughing) You understand this to be true, and I stand by you. No, from this day on, you will be a member of my family. You will be protected. Your very word will be carried out with SWIFT AND POOOOOOOWWWWEEEEERFUL FEROCITY, MY FRIEND! For I am the weapon of war that you will use to rebuild the EWC as we know it. 

The fans begin to stir and chant "EWC" repeatedly as Xplode rubs his chin. He has a look of confusion for a time, until a small smirk appears upon his face. 

Xplode: You talk a big game. Backing it up is an entirely different matter. I don't hand out my trust that easily. You will get your chance to prove all of this, next week. 

Brett Black: Oh Mister X... a chance is all that I need. Allow me to step into that ring, and you will witness the rebirth of the EWC as you and I desire. We shall speak again...

Xplode looks slightly interested in his new "friend" as the video screen suddenly cuts to static. The fans begin to chant "EWC" repeatedly as Xplode drops the microphone and exits the ring.

Joey Aiello: I don't think that was the man that Xplode intended on introducing tonight.

Jeremy Piven: No.. but he may be the man that Xplode needs. We will return after these messages with the first match of the night!

[President Mac]

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BACKSTAGE

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“HEY YOU!! Yeah you, the idiot with the microphone. Stay where you are.”

Sam attic walked into the arena and stopped in front of Ace Heart, looking at him like he was beneath him.

“I know what you do around here so stand still, hold that microphone up where my words can be heard and stay quiet. You, with the camera, make sure you get my face for this little interview.”

Standing tall and looking dead into the camera, he smiled, like a snake would before it was about to strike.

“EWC. I decided to grace your company for a couple reasons. One was for the money, the offer was good enough. Second, I want to own the place, not the actual company, but the title. Yes like every other person here I want the gold, the big title. Unlike everyone else here, I can keep it when I get it. Tonight I am going to show you all what its like in the future, Legend will go down hard, he will be nothing more than a memory. Now we all know what is coming up. Stranglemania X. The big show of the year, the main event stage. I am going to put out a challenge and a warning. I am giving notice, one year from this event, the big daddy of them all, I will be the number one man around here. But it has to start someplace, so here it is. I am challenging anyone in this company to a fight, a match or whatever you want to call it. I want to see if the so called superstars in this place have the balls to step up and prove it. I want competition and if you don’t come to me ……. Well lets say you don’t want me to pick someone to come after. Now pay attention, when this match is done, there will be no doubt as to who the one with the real talent around here is.”

Shoving the camera man out of the way Sam walks towards the dressing rooms.

---

PRE SHOW MATCH 1
LEGEND Vs SAM ATTIC

Winner by Pin Count: Sam Attic

PRE SHOW MATCH 2
JACK OWYNS Vs SCORPIO

Winner by via DQ: SCORPIO

---

Piven: Right now we got footage of the Michael Carter press conference. I hear Ace Heart is moderating it.

Aiello: What is he doing, announcing his first sponsor?

Piven: I don't know and we are about to find out.

The scene switches to a backstage area with a few members of the press facing a table with Michael Cater seated in front of them with Ace Heart standing at his side.

Heart: Ladies and gentlemen, I am Ace Heart of EWC and today we are here to introduce one of the newest members of EWC roster Michael Carter. You may have saw him on last week's Monday Night Brawl during an interview with . Today we have him here to answer your questions.

Several of the media raise their hands trying to get their question in.

Heart: OK you.

Man: Hey, I am Slammer from the Daily News.

Carter smiles at the Slammer.

Carter: Good to see you, your articles helped me as a young fan in the 1990's and 2000's. I really enjoyed your work on getting the schools and results.

The masked man nods in the crowd.

Slammer: Thank you Michael. I am honored. My question is that you are rumored to be debuting at StrangleMania, achy truth to that?

Carter: I don't know, I'd like for it to be true but knowing you, you have a better idea of it than I would. I wish I had an answer so all my fans would know, but I don't.

Hands shoot up as Carter finishes his answer.

Heart: Next, oh you in the blue pant suit.

Woman: Linda Park for KFMB Channel 4.

Carter: Hi Linda.

Carter waves at the female member of the media.

Park: Michael what are your finishers?

King: Well as most people know, I have three finishers. First I have the Future Lock which is an arm submission, second is Wake Me Up a running boot to the face which can come from any number of directions and lastly is Welcome to the New Age, my old trusty modified crossface submission hold. Any one of them can cause victory for me.

Hands shoot up again trying to have their questions answered.

Heart: Alright, you.

Man #2: Joe Robinson, with The DB

Carter: Hello Joe.

Robinson: What do you think about being a part of EWC?

Carter smirks.

Carter: I am honored to be a part of it and I hope to prove myself soon.

Again hands shoot up as media members look to have their questions answered.

Heart: OK, you in the front.

Lady #2: Sally Floyd for Frontlines.

Carter: Alright.

Floyd: What happened with your medical testing that you talked about last week on Brawl?

Carter: My medical testing showed knee damage but nothing I didn’t know before. With me being use to the future, I am use to robots tending to my health, right now I have to deal with humans.

A few more hands shoot up.

Heart: Alright, you in the middle.

Man #3: Ben Urich from The Post.

Carter rolls his eyes.

Carter: What is your question?

Urich: Why do you think you are from the future? I saw you wrestle in the UK just months ago.

Carter shrugs his shoulders.

Carter: I know not of what you say.

Urich: Don’t give me that, I know you are Mike King.

Carter: I am not.

Urich: I saw footage of you, you are Mike King. You share the same height, weight, hometown and moveset. Give up the act already you phony.

Carter takes the microphone on his suit jacket and throws it at Urich before walking out of the press conference.

Heart: I apologize for that. Thank you for coming tonight.

The scene switches back to Aiello and Piven.

Aiello: Well no talk of his sponsors. He walked out after five people.

Piven: Oh come on, that Urich is a worm. He needs to have his credentials pulled.

Aiello: He was looking for the answer of Michael Carter being Mike King.

Piven: They are not the same, it looks like King retired after his UK run.

---

MATCH 3

NATHAN CREED Vs AXLE AOMORI

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Joey Aiello: The next match looks to be a doozy! We have the dangerous Nathan Creed squaring off against the enigmatic... Axle Aomori. Any thoughts on this, Jeremy?

Jeremy Piven: Thoughts? Well I am not mind reader but I can predict that this match will leave both men scarred and bruised for sure. The styles of both men are very intense and in your face. This could play a large part in who walks away from this affair.. and who doesn't.

Joey Aiello: Let's switch to the ring where Jessica is waiting to begin this match.

The feed pans to the ring.

Jessica Stroup: The following match is scheduled for one fall. Coming to the ring first, please welcome, Nathan Creed!

"Anxiety" blares in the arena; the crowd explode to their feet to take a gander at one of their favorite extremists, Nathan Creed, stepping out center stage. His golden mane draping down the shoulders of his black leather jacket and toothy grin peering through his thick beard, he paused with his hands placed on his sides looking out to all sides of the arena. He then walked a moderate pace down the ramp that was guided by a spotlight that dangled up above as green lights lit up parts of the crowd and ring. Nathan slapped five with a line of his fans that sat in the front row, then ascended up the cold steel steps. He walks the apron until he comes to a stop in it's center, raises his fist in the air with confidence, and enters through the top and middle ropes. Upon doing so, he approaches the nearest turnbuckle - climbing to the second highest level - clenches his fist and holding them high into the air to where everyone could see.

Jessica Stroup: And his opponent.. Axle Aomori!

Dance with the Devil blares through the sound system as the lights go to a blood red color. Axle slowly walks out from the back to a storm of boos and into a cloud of smoke that has come up from the bottom of the stage. He looks around at the crowd with a smirk on his face as he runs his hand through his hair. As he finishes he begins to walk down the ramp towards the ring slowly ignoring any fans that try to reach out to touch him. As he reaches the bottom of the ramp he sees a fan that has a sign that reads "Axle Sucks," Axle rips the sign out of the fans hand and rips the sign which he throws back into the fans face. Axle walks the final bit of the ramp to reach the floor which he then makes a sharp left towards the steps heading up to the ring, as he reaches them he slowly walks up them step by step, when he finally gets to the apron of the ring he climbs through the top and middle ropes, after he has gotten into the ring he walks towards the ropes and yells different words out into the crowd and smirks, as he finishes yelling into the crowd he heads towards his corner and slides down it into a sitting position.

Both men stay in their respective corners as the referee signals for the bell. The crowd begins to become loud now as the bell is rung repeatedly. Axle is first to go on the offense as he rushes Creed. Axle feints and then comes up behind Creed, locking in a reverse bear hug. Creed struggles for a time before prying both hands off of him. Creed spins around and snags Axle, performing a text book suplex! The fans cheer with excitement as both men rush to their feet now. Axle is taken back down to the mat with an arm drag... and then another.. and then another. Finally, he hesitates to rise back to his feet as Creed glares at him, his body read to press the attack!

Joey Aiello: Impressive start to this match! Nathan Creed is showing his speed here tonight as he takes it to Aomori!

Jeremy Piven: You can never count out Aomori though. This is a man who has shown a great deal of skill in that ring since the reopening of the promotion. He is a hunter, a predator.. and that makes him a very dangerous foe. Creed will need to elevate himself tonight if he is to walk away from this match with the win.

Creed taunts Axle. Axle slowly and cautiously rises to his feet once again. Both men lock up! Axle kicks Creed in the gut, and then drives an elbow into the back of his head. The fans get back into it as Axle grabs Creed and performs a modified spine buster! Creed smashes into the mat with a hard bounce as Axle rolls away, rejuvenated once more! Creed rushes up to one knee but Axle is on him! Unleashing hellish punches to the head, Axle presses the attack but Creed shrugs them off, still rising to a vertical base.

Creed shoves Axle away now and follows this up with a shoulder tackle! Creed then rushes his foe and drops an elbow unto him, only to come up with mat! Axle moves out of the way quickly, rolls back up to his feet! Creed rushes to the do the same, but is drop kicked back to the mat! The fans enjoy the show as both men remain equal in the ring, neither wanting to give up the edge to one another!

Joey Aiello: Excellent match here! Creed and Aomori look to be dead equal in terms of who has the upper hand. I always enjoy a good classic match. This is what the EWC is all about!

Axle and Creed lock up once more. Creed Irish Whips Axle across the ring. Axle returns and leap frogs over Creed, landing on his feet behind him. Axle uses a swinging neckbreaker on Creed and Creed hits the mat hard! Axle covers for the pin attempt!

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Kick Out by Creed! 

Axle begins to punch Creed in the forehead as Creed remains on the mat. Bringing Creed to his feet, Axle nails a hard uppercut then sends Creed stumbling backwards. Axle then lungs at Creed only to be caught by the neck! Creed lifts Axle into the air and then slams him down into the mat with a awkward looking chokeslam! Creed covers for the pin!

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Kick Out by Axle Aomori! 

Both men remain on their backs as they catch their breath. The fans cheer with appreciation for what has taken place in the ring!

Jeremy Piven: This match is starting to come down to the wire! Creed is obviously spent as he was barely able to perform that chokeslam. Axle looks to be pretty worse for wear himself. This is intense!


Nathan Creed suddenly kicks to his feet. He looks exhausted as he flocks his hair behind him and falls against the ropes. Axle stirs now and uses the ropes to rise. As the fans cheer loudly, Nathan waits...

Axle is now on his feet. He turns around..

Nathan Creed lets out a loud roar and charges Axle! Shooting forward, he nails his finisher, "The Battle Cry"! Axle goes down hard as Nathan flops on top of him, completely spent. The ref begins to count for the pin..

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THREE!!!!!

Jessica Stroup: Your winner... NATHAN CREED!!!

The fans stand up and cheer as Nathan Creed rolls away! With the fans motivating him, he launches to the ropes and celebrates as the arena explodes in cheers!!

Joey Aiello: Hell of a win tonight for Creed! AMAZING!

Jeremy Piven: Sure.. another good guy.. another cheesy win. Let's go to commercial..

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BACKSTAGE

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Ace Heart is in the back waiting for a wrestler to interview when “Rebel Angel” Jack carter comes up holding an axe handle.

Ace Heart: Um Carter, this isn’t your interview time.

Jack Carter: Well… it is now. You see Derek Wellings has been talking all sorts of smack on social media about how he beat me, when in reality he just scraped by me, so why wait for a rematch, I’m going to go and handle this.. NOW!

Ace Heart: Wait wait.. You just can’t go busting into his locker room, you can’t do that”.

Carter gets in Ace’s face.

Jack Carter: Watch me.

Jack heads off down the hall and is in front of Wellings’s locker room when EWC security come up and start holding him back from entering, Jack starts yelling.

Jack Carter: Get away from me, get the f(beep)k away, shoo flies, I’m going in there”!

An official of EWC comes out and speaks to him.[

Xplode: Carter you can’t go in there, if you go in there and attack Wellings you’re going to be fined.

Jack Carter: Fine how much you want?

Carter pulls out a huge handful of 50’s and 100 dollar bills.

Jack Carter: I’ll pay the fine right now, then go in.

The GM of BRAWL and of EWC sighs loudly, face palming the "Rebel Angel".

Xplode: Carter, you go in there and you'll get no match tonight, you won’t be paid and you’ll be sent back to Boston.

Jack raises the axe handle like he’s about to swipe X's head off instead shakes his head.

Jack Carter: THIS AIN’T OVER, YOU GOT ME? YOU TELL MAC OR WHATEVER HIS NAME IS TO GET A REMATCH SIGNED, OR THIS IS GOING TO GO TO ANOTHER LEVEL, GOT IT”!?

Carter then storms off swearing.

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MATCH 4

RUTHLESS AGGRESSION Vs REESE SPENCER

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Joey Aiello: Our next competitors have really caused a stir in the EWC. Especially Ruthann Parks. It's hard to believe that her stock has risen so sharply and so quickly. She really is a surprise talent this year and an early candidate to become the next World Champion.

Jeremy Piven: Let's be honest here. Her stock went up the very minute that the General Manager become involved with her. Everything that she has, is, and will achieve is thanks to Xplode! The man is that powerful. When Xplode takes an interest in you, his knack for achieving success tends to rub off on you.

Joey Aiello: Though I highly respect Xplode, that is certainly not the case with Parks. She has earned her keep on the roster, and achieved everything on her own without a doubt. Her opponent though may just be the obstacle that her career has hoped to avoid however. Reese Spencer is a high talent in the industry, and many expect her to have a break out year any time now. A win over Parks tonight would validate that without a doubt. Let's head to the ring and get this match started!

The feed pans to the ring.

Jessica Stroup: The following match is scheduled for one fall. Coming to the ring first, please welcome, Reese Spencer!

I-I-I'm the shit 

With no makeup 

Don't have to curl my hair up 

All this booty here mine 

I'm a dolla worth a dime 

Real bosses stand up 

As the chorus of I’m Legit by Nicki Minaj featuring Ciara comes over the PA system, from behind the curtain comes Reese Spencer. The buxom brunette has a smile on her face. Reese turns her back towards the fans as she throws her hand. Slowly, Chelsey starts to crouch down.Slowly, she gets from her crouched position and back up to her vertical base. She slowly turns back towards the booing fans with a smirk on her face as she makes her way down to ringside.

Beat 'em like they stole something 

Beat 'em like they stole something 

All this booty here got them dreaming 

Let me hold something 

Lemme lemme hear that boy 

Lemme lemme rear that boy 

Let me get the most expensive car 

And let me steer that boy 

Real big pretty titty 

Shut down any city 

While passing by the fans, Reese flicks her hair off of her shoulders with a smirk on her face. The fans continue their booing ways as Reese makes it to ringside. Making her way up onto the ring apron, Reese stands up to her feet and places her right foot on the bottom rope.

Watcha done did I need some referrals 

Motherfuckers know I'm the shit legit 

And if a motherfucker don't he can suck my dick 

I tell 'em everybody else is my opposite 

I put 'em on the gang em' 5 percent 

Reese then walks over to the turnbuckle across from her. She quickly ascends it and sits on the top turnbuckle. Raising her hands in the air to the barrage of boos, Reese flicks her brunette hair off of her shoulders before she jumps into the ring. Walking over to the center of the ring, Reese raises her hands once more. The fans continue there boos as the sounds of “I’m Legit” fade out.

Jessica Stroup: And her opponent.. Ruthann "Ruthless Aggression" Parks!

The lights go out as it pitch black in the arena the lights start to flash red around the arena and a voice over come out boom “Ruthless Aggression.” as Last Resort start to blasting in the arena. The lights going off and no like at a rock concert. The crowd is singing the song every word out comes Ruthless Aggression with a bit of a smirk on her face. As she stand on the top of the ramp taking in the crowd. She bang her head to the music as she walked down the ramp as she stop and take it all in once before jumping on the apron looking around at the crowd singing the song with them. She climb inside of the ring and walked over to the top turnbuckle sinking it all in as she take off her leather jacket and throw it out toward the crowd. She jump down from the turnbuckle ready to fight.

The bell is rung as both women glare at one another. Spencer approaches Parks and slowly gyrates her hips in her direction. She then taunts the fans and adjusts her top as she walks away. Parks smirks for a time and then rushes Spencer now! She performs a running bulldog on Spencer to the delight of the fans! Spencer is shown holding her head as Parks stomps her hard and then helps her to her feet. Parks performs a suplex followed up by a backdrop. With both women on the mat, Parks locks in a sleeper hold as the fans cheer loudly!

Joey Aiello: Impressive start to this match! Ruthann Parks is a dynamo in that ring! She definitely fits in with the new era of the EWC! If she can hold on to the sleeper hold long enough, I don't see how Spencer can last much longer!

Jeremy Piven: Don't let the body fool you. Reese Spencer can take damage in that ring. It will take more than a text book submission attempt to put her away.

Parks holds on to the submission a while longer. Spencer manages to slide her teeth into place, and she bits Parks, forcing her to release the hold! Both women race to their feet now. Parks sends an elbow into the face of Spencer. Parks attempts another elbow but comes up with air as Spencer ducks under the attack. She then performs a wheelbarrow facebuster, sending Parks to the mat hard!

In a display of strength, Parks immediately rolls over and begins to rise once again! Spencer, now very frustrated grabs Parks and performs a Tilt-A-Whirl Backbreaker! Parks crashes into the mat hard once more, this time remaining on her back. Spencer turns over Parks and grabs her leg, attempting a side leg Boston Crab! Parks is still alert enough to yank her leg free and shove her away!

Kicking back up to her feet, Parks rushes Spencer. Locking in a DDT, she pulls back but is countered by Spencer instead. Spencer swings around brings Parks in with a DDT of her own. Parks is able to halt the progress of the attack though and counter as well! This time, she uses a Irish Whip! Spencer rebounds off of the ropes and both women slam into one another, performing clotheslines at the same time!

Joey Aiello: They are really leaving it all out there in the ring tonight! I AM LOVING THIS!!

Still showing her tenacity, Parks slowly turns over and drapes an arm over Spencer for the pin attempt.

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Kick Out by Spencer! 

Parks rolls over unto her back, breathing hard. She then turns over and begins to rise, only to be snatched by Spencer! Spencer uses a small package and attempts the pin!

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Kick Out by Ruthann Parks! 

Both women remain on the mat now breathing hard. The crowd begins to chant "THIS IS AWESOME!" repeatedly as the arena comes alive with excitement!!

Jeremy Piven: Neither woman wants to give up the edge here. This is what it is all about. Sweat, tears, tenacity.. only the best can walk away with a win here in the EWC.

Joey Aiello: Can Ruthann Parks continue her amazing win streak here in the EWC? Or will Reese Spencer perform the unthinkable, and walk away with the win today!

Both women race to their feet! Reese grabs Ruthann.. but is suddenly shoved away! Ruthann catches Reese off guard and nails her finisher out of no where.... The Merry Go Round!!!! The fans cheer loudly as she hooks the leg for the pin!!!

1.

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THREE!!!!

Jessica Stroup: Your winner... RUTHLESS AGRESSION!!!!!

Joey Aiello: WOW! That was out of no where! It looks like Ruthann Parks is really hitting her stride these days. 

Jeremy Piven: Agreed.... Why doesn't she seem happy though?

The feed fades out as we see Parks looking out at the fans, a look of concern upon her face. 

---

BACKSTAGE

---

Smith Jones’ face fills the screen in stark closeup as he stands in front of the mirror in his dark locker room with his eyes closed. He’s dressed in a gray tee that reads ‘vulnerable’ on the front of it in black lettering with a large white X overtop of the whole thing. He’s also in his trademark all white wrestling gear, laced up and ready for a fight. The only light in the room is from a single candle that sits on a coffee table in the centre. We can just barely see the contents of the room, flickering in the near pitch darkness. A white leather couch. A flatscreen on one wall opposite a bookshelf filled with classics on the other. With his eyes still tightly shut, Jones tries to ignore the many aches and pains from his hellish trip to Houston. Deep lines lacerate his forehead as he ponders his recent decision to align himself with a manager. Smith had always thought of people as disposable and certainly not as trustworthy. But there’s just something about the way this woman carries herself that makes perfect sense to Smith given the world he now finds himself in. And how convenient the timing that she would appear right before Smith’s first match on the main show and one against an opponent that outweighs him by seventy-one pounds. Smith has come to a place where a little backup is exactly what he needs.

Smith Jones: Seventy-one pounds. Speed game. But I already know that. What do I need a friggin’ manager for? How can I fully trust someone not to… You can’t.

Smith looks at his reflection which scolds him in return.

Smith Jones: You can’t fully trust her; not anyone, not anymore. But she will be more useful than you could possibly imagine. You’ve been looking for that final puzzle piece, that certain ‘it’, that person that will watch your back at ringside and keep you more aware of your surroundings than you could ever be alone. Candice Bergetz is…

There’s a knock at the door.

Smith Jones: ...here.

He goes to the door and pauses for a moment before taking a deep breath and opening the door. As the door opens, the camera gets its first glimpse of Smith’s new manager, Candice Bergetz.

Candice is dressed in a black shirt with a black business blazer overtop. She has on a matching black mini skirt with closed toe heels. An oversized black purse dangles from her arm.

Candice takes a peek inside of the locker room, peering past her new business partner.

Candice Bergetz: I take it someone likes the dark?

She lets out a quiet laugh and holds her hand out, not inviting herself in.

Candice Bergetz: I’m Candice. Its nice to finally meet you.

Jones extends his hand in return and they shake hands for the very first time. He looks deep into her eyes using his peripheral vision to take in the other details for now.

Smith Jones: The pleasure is mine. I’m sure you’ve been busy getting ready for tonight. Shopping and paperwork and the like. The crowd is going to eat you up.

Smith has gotten a good read from her since day one. Jones is cautious as always, but he has a tendency to follow his gut. He flicks the light on and steps aside to let her in, closing the door behind them.

Candice Bergetz: Oh God, I hope you mean in a good way? Did I do too much?

Bergetz walks over to the mirror to analyze herself. The makeup, the attire, the hair. She glances back at Smith.

Candice Bergetz: I went with the black to compliment the all white that you told me you wear.

There’s a pause. It’s her turn now to study Jones.

Candice Bergetz: The paperwork has been crazy but so far its been worth it. I just want to make sure this is what you want. Trust me and pardon my language but I’m willing to bust my ass to prove to you that I’m serious about this. You won’t have to set up a single thing when it comes to your wrestling career. Check this out.

Candice takes a seat on the couch and reaches into her bag. She pulls out a piece of paper, handing it to Smith.

Candice Bergetz: Here are your public appearances, signings and promotional photo shoots that I had scheduled for the month of March and the first two weeks of April.

Smith takes a look at the material and keeps his same stone scowl in place to mask how impressed he already is. He looks at her and then looks down at the floor.

Smith Jones: Candice. You look incredible. I’m… You’re… Good work.

He turns to the bookshelf and starts looking at the spines. He knows them by heart, but he needs a distraction.

Smith Jones: You nervous?

Candice crosses her legs, still sitting on the couch, gazing in Smith’s direction.

Candice Bergetz: Nervous isn’t the word. I don’t think there is a word right now to describe how I feel. I’m excited, nervous, and terrified all in one.

She lets a nervous giggle escape her lips.

Candice Bergetz: It’s one thing to speak in front of a group of people at a rally or a meeting, but to know that tonight I’m going to be out there in front of THOUSANDS of people, trying not to screw up? Totally different.

Bergetz tries to relax on the couch as the nerves are getting the better of her, but she keeps a confident look on her face.

Candice Bergetz: I have your back out there man. I just don’t want to mess up. I’ll let you know if someone tries to interfere, or if I see an opening for you to go for a certain move, but this is new to me. Just wanted to make that clear up front.

Smith Jones: I know the deal.

He turns to look at her again with a book in his hand. Smith walks over to the couch and sits down next to Candice.

Smith Jones: I don’t let people into my locker room. You got in here on your first day. I see something in you that I know is going to help me get where I want to be in the Extreme Wrestling Corporation. This place is crawling with top of the line, killer talent that’s going to test me, test us, along the way. I have no doubt that come bell time you and I are going to turn heads and claim that ring for our very own. It’s all I’ve ever wanted to do. Let’s kick some ass!!

Candice laughs and nods in approval.

Candice Bergetz: I think you’re the one doing the ass kicking and I’ll be the one yelling out advice and strategy.

She checks out the book in his hand.

Candice Bergetz: The Art of War huh? Someone’s in the right frame of mind for tonight. I’m not an expert or anything but I know that whoever works hardest has the best chance of winning. You are going to work harder than anyone else out there tonight and you’re going to show the world why you’re the next big thing in the EWC. Got it?

Realizing maybe she shouldn’t be giving orders, she blinks a few times nervously.

Candice Bergetz: I didn’t mean that in a bossy way. I just want to do my part in motivating you for your match later.

Smith Jones: I think you and I are going to get along just fine.

The cameras fade out and head back towards the ring for the next match.

---

MATCH 5

KING ONYX Vs TONY SAVAGE

---

Jessica Stroup: This match is scheduled for one fall… introducing first…

"Ambitionz az a ridah" by 2pac blares throughout the arena as the lights go out. Then a red spot light shines onto the entrance where King Onyx appears with a mean look on his face. He will be wearing his simple ring attire, black jeans, black wifebeater, and black timberland boots. His hands taped with black wrestling tape and black elbow pads on his elbows.

Jessica Stroup: From Baltimore, Maryland… weighing in at two hundred and thirty five pounds…. KING ONYX!

He looks onto the crowd as if they are not even there ignoring their boos and heads straight to the ring. Once in the ring he stands in the corner and bounces preparing for his match.

Jessica Stroup: And introducing his opponent…

No pyro, no flash, no fancy opening...

Just the roar of a Harley Davidson Fat Boy Lo rolling down the entrance ramp, and "Sinister Kid" by the Black Keys on the P.A.

Jessica Stroup: Ladies and Gentlemen, now making his way into the ring, from Atlantic City, N.J., via Atlanta, Georgia, weighing in at two hundred and forty five pounds and managed by Kid Cannabis.

EWC's official bail bondsman....The Atlanta Falcon....TONY SAVAGE!

Tony stops the bike next to the announcers table, revving the engine to the delight of fans nearby, and to the chagrin of that piece of shit Piven and his eardrums. He parks the bike, EWC's security crew takes temporary custody of Tony's weapons and search him, then, jumps into the ring still in street clothes, cracking his knuckles and ready to fight.

The bell rings as the two men circle around the area. Onyx and Savage lock up in a grappling position. Savage, being the slightly stronger of the two goes for a headlock, applying the hold with malice and ease. Onyx grabs ahold of Savage as he locks in his hands around Savage’s waist. Onyx lifts Savage up for a huge big back body drop. Onyx picks up Savage by the head, hitting an elbow straight for Savage’s face with impact and ease. Onyx picks up Savage as Onyx jumps up slightly in the air and hits Savage with a huge knee to the chin. Onyx follows it up by hitting rapdly elbows to the face of Savage, not letting up one bit. Onyx irish whips Savage as Onyx comes up and hits a devastating clothesline, almost turning Savage inside out.

Aiello: I may not like this kid’s methods but he’s slowly dominating in the early goings of this match!

Piven: This kid has all of the makings of a star just waiting to be born.

Onyx lifts up Savage as he finally hits him with a huge backbreaker. Onyx quickly goes the the cover.

1…


2…

Tony Savage kicks out as Onyx gets frustrated, thinking he’d get the easy victory. Onyx picks up Savage but Savage comes up with a jawbreaker. Savage hits Onyx with hard lefts and rights. Savage hits Onyx with a shin breaker with impact. Savage swiftly grabs Onyx as Savage lands another hard right hand to Onyx’s gut. Savage brings a knee to Onyx’s gut, continuing with his onslaught. Savage slides behind Onyx as he hits a reverse DDT with destructive force. Savage picks up Onyx slowly. Savage proceeds to hit a reverse russian legsweep with force. Savage goes for the cover.

1…

2…

3!

The audience, Joe, Piven, and even Tony, are surprised and a bit angry over how fast that went!

Aiello: Wait, what? Are you serious?

Piven: That's it? I knew that move hurts like hell, but really?

Aiello: Looks like King Onyx lineage isn't so royal.

THE WINNER OF THIS MATCH TONY SAVAGE VIA PINFALL....

But the fans aren't happy, and neither is Tony. He doesn't wait for the ref to raise his hand, instead, he slides out of the ring, goes over to his bike, and grabs a pair of prison grade shackles from the saddlebag. He also stops and asks Jessica nicely for the mic. He slides back in, just in time for Onyx, who's face is streaming blood. Tony grabs Onyx, Irish Whips him off the ropes, then....

WHAM! CARDIAC ARREST! Tony punches Onyx in the chest with such force, people in the front rows squirm from the sound of the impact! King Onyx crumples to the mat, coughing up blood!

Aiello: Jesus...you can do that with a punch!

Piven: He went from star in the making to triple bypass surgery victim in a minute! Damn, that's one helluva right cross he's got!

Tony has to keep himself from frothing at the mouth as he speaks...

Tony: I don't know how the fuck they conduct business in B-More, you poor bootleg imitation of Nino Brown, but in A.C., you sign a contract, you commit to a business deal you fucking live up to it, or you pay a penalty. Time to pay the piper for re-negging, bitch!

Tony picks him up, Irish Whips him....WHAM! Another Cardiac Arrest!

Aiello: Good Lord, somebody stop him!

Piven: Why not? Let's face it, Tony's right; you don't do what you're suppose to do here contractually wise, you get punished.

Tony slaps one end of the shackles around King's left ankle

Tony: King Onyx, I'm hauling your ass in for 1st degree impersonation of a EWC professional wrestler. You have the right to remain silent. Considering you haven't said shit since putting your name on paper, that shouldn't be a problem. So keep your two cents in your pocket, you fucking scrub! *Starts dragging him towards his Harley*

You have the right to attorney, if for no other reason, to set up a living will, because your career here in EWC is on fucking life support! *Attaches the other end of the cuffs to his bike and starts revving it up*

And finally, you have the right, no, the privilege to one day tell your co-workers at the drive thru at Wendy's, that Tony Savage made change out of your sorry $5 ass for wasting everybody's fucking time here!

Aiello: He's not going to...really...

Piven: King Onyx isn't getting ran out of Pittsburgh on a rail; he's getting dragged off by a nut on a Fat Boy!

And right before we cut to commercial, the fans are going nuts, as Tony drives off to the backstage area, dragging Onyx along with him by his ankle.

And now, a word from our sponsors!

---

BACKSTAGE

---

Backstage the camera runs with Kurt Newman as panic rips his face. With a burrito in hand Kurt rounds a corner and continues to dash down the hall way.

Kurt Newman: “Have to get to locker room! Need to tell Chris to record the Golden Girls Marathon on TV Land! If Bea Arthur was still alive…..God bless her soul…..she’d kick my ass for forgetting.”

The camera pans to another camera crew where they’re running with Shadow Man as he’s also running down a hallway with a taco in hand.

Shadow Man: “I just like to run down hallways with a Taco in hand! Taco! Taco! Taco! Taco! Taco! Taco! Taco! Taco!”

The camera does a split screen between the two running until eventually the two crash into one another. The view goes back to one camera as both men lay on the ground. Dazed and confused, Kurt holds his head up and looks over at Shadow Man.

Kurt Newman: “Ow! That hurt.”

Shadow Man: “Sorry man. You ok?”

Kurt Newman: “Yeah I’m ok……but my burrito!”

Kurt looks down and looks at his burrito. Shadow man does the same but looks at his taco.

Shadow Man: “My Taco! Its ok baby, everything is going to be ok. Look at me! LOOK AT ME!”

Kurt Newman: “Your taco got into my burrito.”

Shadow Man: “And you got your burrito in my taco.”

The two stare at each other for a few seconds in disbelief until surprisingly the two smile as they both hold up a Double Decker Taco!

FOR A LIMITED TIME ONLY - GET THE EXCLUSIVE SHADOW MAN & KURT NEWMAN INFUSED
'DOUBLE DECKER TACO' ONLY AT TACO BELL
USE PROMO CODE 'SMKN-DDT' FOR A FREE LARGE DR PEPPER

---

MATCH 6

CORY CHEVELLE Vs DRAKE SAGE

---

The arena lights go out and the following appears on the screen. “Whoever appeals to the law against his fellow man is either fool, or a coward. He Who that can not take care of himself without that law is both. For a wounded man shall say unto his assailant: 'If I live, I will kill you.' 'If I die, you are forgiven. Such is the rule.. of Honor.”

Then you hear a loud BOOM!

Joe Aiello: Here we go.

Stroup: The following match is scheduled for one fall.

Just as the opening chords of “Omerta” by Lamb of God open, the stage is lit up by a large explosion on stage! The entrance is nearly blocked out of sight completely with a huge cloud of smoke, and a silhouette begins emerging. A massive shadowy frame then walks forward, and emerging from the smoke, pounding his chest shouting “TIME TO FIGHT!” He is.. 'The Silverback' Cory Chevelle![/color]

Jessica Stroup: Coming to the ring, weighing in at 290 lbs, from Bear Creek, MO. "The Silverback" Cory Chevelle!

Chevelle stands still at the top of the stage for a moment, his cold blue eyes staring straight into his opponent's eyes. Chevelle has the face of a stone-cold-killer right now. Many fans eyes are all drawn to the Olympic gold medal he has hanging around his neck though. He hops in place, landing on one foot then the other, then comes lunging forward, flexing and putting his physique on display for the world watching! Frank Leary, Cory's manager walks out behind him as Cory begins walking down to the ring, not taking his eyes off of his opponent. Chevelle stops at the ring, hopping up to the apron on the outside, and entering. Chevelle stretches and warms up while staring across the ring at his opponent, his eyes soulless as ever.

Jessica Stroup: His opponent …

The lights dimmer and the arena turns black. Flashing lights begin to appear on top of the stage. The beginning of " I Stand Alone " begins to play. Once the beginning ends pyro rages from the stage area and Drake appears at the top of the ramp.

Jessica Stroup: Weighing in at 239 lbs, from Portland Oregon. "The Mecha Of Violence", Drake Sage!

He begins to walk down the ramp to the ring. Walking slowly he shows off by raising his arms to some fans. He slides into the ring.

As Drake enters the ring, Cory is all over him shoving him into the turnbuckle doing shoulder thrust into Drake’s stomach. Then pulls him out to give him a suplex followed by several kicks to the gut!

Jeremy Piven: Man Cory is on a roll. He isn’t giving Drake a change to even breathe.

Joe Aiello: The Beast of Beasts is showing exactly who is in charge of this match and Drake is giving up a lot of size to this big man.

Cory then kicks Drake in the side before stepping on his neck using the ropes for leverage. Then as Drake was getting up, Cody throws him in the turnbuckle and starts to kick his gut again.

Jeremy Piven: Relentless, that is what Cory is.

Cory then Clubs Drake on the back as he keeps him in the corner. He gives him one more kick to the gut before Drake starts to kick back trying to fight out of the corner.

Joe Aiello: Looks like Drake finally woke up for this match.

Drake chops to the chest of Cory but again Cory knees Drake in the gut. Cory with a Irish whip to Drake into the other corner but as Cory runs to follow with a shoulder block… Drake hits him with his own shoulder block. It causes Cory to stagger some as Drake runs out of the corner, ducks a clothesline, and gives three arm drags to Cory.

Jeremy Piven: Drake is on fire now ladies and gentlemen. He is giving Cory a run.

Joe Aiello: Yes but for how long? When is he going to get so tired that Cory destroys him?

Jeremy Piven: Maybe he won’t. Maybe Drake will pull this off.

Then Drake clotheslines Cory out of the ring as he was getting up. Drake follows him out as he bounces Cory off the steel steps followed by a chop to the chest. He then follows with a second chop as Cory staggers outside the ring. The Ref starts the 10 count.

Joe Aiello: Drake took this to the outside, I wonder what damage he will cause and if he will anger Cory more?

Just then Cory knees Drake in the gut followed with a club to the back. Cory slides in long enough to break the count before sliding out again. He then goes to whip Drake into the ringpost but Drake reverses it sending Cory into the post.

Jeremy Piven: Now that had to hurt the big man.

Joe Aiello: No shit Sherlock! You can see it hurt.

Cory is holding his wrist as he walks around the ring with Drake right behind him. Cory rolls in and Drake follows as he locks on Achilles Tendon Lock, but Cory managed to get out and back to the outside of the ring. Drake follows him out and start to throw punches to Cory’s head. Cory staggers and tries to walk away to regroup but Drake follows. Cory rolls in as Drake slides in right behind him.

Jeremy Piven: Drake isn’t going to give up on this fight. He isn’t backing down.

Joe Aiello: But he isn’t going to win either.

Jeremy Piven: How do you know?

Joe Aiello: Look at the facts, Cory is the larger man, Drake is giving up over half his size and weight to a man that can destroy him.

Jeremy Piven: Proves nothing.

Drake kicks Cory in the gut just to be thrown into the ropes by Cory. Ref starts a double count.

1

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2

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Cory up first and looking like he is in pain. He then kicks Drake in the head then in the side. Drake gets to the corner just to have Cory kick him in the gut not once but twice. Cory then takes him to the center of the ring and hits a suplex Then covers for a pin.

Joe Aiello: Here we go, it’s over!

1

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2

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Kickout

Jeremy Piven: Two count for Cory. He looks a little upset at that.

Cory with another kick to the gut of Drake before letting Drake get to his feet just to nail him in the gut again. Drake with a chop to the chest a couple of times before they fall to the mat with Drake rolling to the outside. Cory slowly follows him to the outside.

Jeremy Piven: Cory looks a bit dazed.

Joe Aiello: Drake looks like he is out cold.

Cory picks up Drake and holds him over his head and then drops him face first on the steel steps. He then slides into the ring to break the count. Then slides back out he picks up Drake and rolls him in the ring. He covers…

1

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2

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thr… kickout

Jeremy Piven: Drake barely surviving that one.

Joe Aiello: Doubt he makes it thou another.

Cory picks him up and hits another suplex then repeats again. Cory then applies the Silverback Death Clutch to which Drake taps to.

Jessica Stroup: Here is your winner… "The Silverback" Cory Chevelle!

Cory rolls away, a large smile upon his face. On the mat remains drake, his arms on his back in agony. The fans begin to boo Cory loudly but he simply flips them off, and keeps his eyes upon his newest victim...

...The feed fades out.

---

BACKSTAGE

---

Carrying her bags, Ruthann and her son head down the hallway and towards the parking lot area. Stopping to find her keys, she smiles at Hunter.

Ruthann: It's going to be fine.

Hunter frowns as he answers his mother.

Hunter: No Mom.. it won't. You know Xplode will get even with us for this. You should have let me nail that guy with the chair. He had it coming!

Ruthann: We will talk about why I stopped you when we get home. Now, let's talk about something else besides.. Xplode.

Ruthann hugs her son and the both of them head towards their car. Suddenly, a dark vehicle flicks on it's headlights and races in their direction! Peeling out loudly, the vehicle turns in their direction as onlookers scream in horror!

Hunter: MOM!!!!! WATCH OUT!!!

Hunter manages to grab his Mother and yank her to safety, just as the vehicle drives by! The vehicle then slams into a couple of boxes before driving out of the parking lot with a loud screech! Shocked and crumpled upon the ground with her son, Ruthann watches the car leave the area before dusting herself off.

Ruthann: This has gone.. too far. It's time to get President Mac involved in this. Let's go.

Ruthann and her Son race to their vehicle as onlookers speak amongst themselves, unsure of what they have just seen.

---

BACKSTAGE

---

The cameras cut backstage where we find Ace Heart and one of the newest members of the EWC roster, Ruby, standing beside him. Behind Ruby is her boyfriend/manager, Zane. He has his arms folded across his chest and watches protectively as Ruby looks into the camera.

Ace Heart: Hello everyone. I’m standing with one of the newest members of EWC, Ruby, and her, uh, bodyguard??

Ruby shakes her head and laughs.

Ruby: He is more than a bodyguard, but think what you like, Mr. Heart.

Ace nods his head and turns his attention away from Zane, and to Ruby.

Ace Heart: Right then. So, Ruby, tonight in just your second match here in EWC you’re involved in one of four ladder matches. You’re going up against Shelly Silver and Madison Mitchell to see which one of you lucky ladies will get a title shot at Stranglemania. Nerves kicking in yet?

Ruby rolls her eyes and laughs again.

Ruby: Nerves? Mr. Heart, you obviously don’t know me very well…yet…but I can assure you, I am far from nervous about this match. In fact, I’m very much looking forward to it. I mean, considering who my opponents are, I have every reason to look forward to it.

Ace Heart: Sounds like you’re pretty confident? Might not be so smart, especially going against Madison Mitchell. She’s been pretty impressive so far.

Behind Ruby, Zane rolls his eyes, letting out a laugh of his own. Ruby turns and shakes her head at him as if ordering him to be silent. He obeys her and she turns back around, glaring at Ace Heart.

Ruby: Regardless of if either of them has been impressive thus far, Mr. Heart, that means absolutely nothing going against me. You see, I love beating up women like Shelly and Madison every chance I get. And the bonus is that I’ll get to beat the snot out of Miss Mitchell with no consequence. They really should have thought twice before putting her against me, because I despise women like Madison Mitchell.

Ace Heart: Why? I mean, what has Madison ever done to you? You don’t even know each other…yet.

Ruby: I don’t have to know someone personally to despise them, Mr. Heart. All Madison has to do is be the bubbly brainless little girl she is, and it’s more than enough. She panders to the fans and to everybody else, and she tried to do the same in her little promo against me. It’s pathetic and I’m going to enjoy making her bleed. And I promise you…it’s a ladder match so she will most definitely bleed.

Ace Heart: Seems to me you’re more interested in Madison Mitchell than the other woman in the match, Shelly Silver. Have you forgotten about her?

Ruby laughs and lets out a sigh.

Ruby: Of course I haven’t forgotten about her. She’s the just the worthless nobody that by some dumb luck was put in this match. I’m not worried about her, but that doesn’t mean I won’t enjoy kicking her ass as well. Now, unless you have any better questions for me, I believe we’re done here. I have a match shortly.

Ruby snaps her fingers and turns to walk away.

Ace Heart: Well…Good luck tonight, Ruby.

Ruby turns around and stares at him with a very confident smirk.

Ruby: I won’t need luck, Mr. Heart. Watch my match tonight and see for yourself.

Ruby snaps her fingers again before she and Zane walk off down the hall.

---

MATCH 7

JACK CARTER Vs SMITH JONES

---

Ace Heart is again waiting in the back, he looks to his left and mumbles “oh no, here we go again” as Jack Carter comes into the interview area.

“Know what.. Ace? Don’t say anything, just give me this (Carter takes the mic from Heart), I’ll take care of my own interview time, go f(beep)k off or something”.

“Killing Ground”. by Saxon plays and Carter comes out to the ring and enters it.

“We all know what happened last week in Vancover. Derek Wellings got by me by the skin of his teeth, he barely got the job done, so since he wants to hide out in a locker room like a chickensh(beep0t, bring out this other wino I’m facing, Smith Jones because…..”.

Jack sees a section chanting “Carter sucks Carter sucks carter sucks”, and walks over to that section.

“Right here.. is what Pittsburgh is all about.. nothing but fat, out of shape unemployed people on food stamps who didn’t even buy their ticket”.

(the crowd boos)

“Boo all you want, but after I beat this hamburger flipper they have playing wrestler by the name of Smith Jones tonite, instead of booing, you’ll be cheering, so come on Jones, get your ass out here.. and get your ass beat, right now”!

Joey Aiello: Well that was interesting.. Folks up next we have a match here that really could turn into a match of the night contender! What do we know about these two men?

Jeremy Piven: You know, every time we start a match, you begin it with some lame run down as if you worked for ESPN or something. Can't you be origional?

Joey Aiello: I am! I mean, the fans want to hear about who they are about to see in the ring and the backgrounds to them, right?!

Jeremy Piven: Not from you. Didn't you hear? I am the top commentary on the show. So follow my lead and shut your mouth unless I speak to you. Feel free to make me a sandwich at any time. I can handle the mic alone if needed.

Joey Aiello: Let's just head to the ring... sheesh.

The feed pans to the ring.

Jessica Stroup: The following match is scheduled for one fall. Already standing and waiting in the ring, please welcome, Jack Carter!

Jack Carter taunts the fans as he stands in the ring waiting for Smith Jones

Jessica Stroup: And his opponent.. Smith Jones!

‘Power’ by Kanye West plays at full volume! During the opening sixteen bars, the lights in the arena slowly fade out to pitch darkness under the vocals of the choir and Kanye’s edgy opening lines. On the first big drum beat, the tron explodes with white pyrotechnics as the arena lights blast to full white! Smith Jones walks out onto the stage dressed to compete in his trademark all white boots, pads, and trunks. He strides confidently down to ringside as the crowd chants 'Smitty, Smitty, Smitty' the whole time. He mounts the steel ring steps and wipes his feet before parting the ropes and taking centre. He turns to the entranceway and awaits his opponent.

The bell is rung as both men stare at one another. Carter rushes Jones but feints instead, sizing up his opponent. Jones returns the feint, and then leads in with a lock up. Both men battle in a test of strength, leaning into one another. Jones manipulates the lock up in to a low headlock now! Carter slides free and nails a stiff backdrop!

Jones rushes to his feet. Carter is on him quickly, grabbing him and performing a belly to belly suplex! Jones hits the at hard. Carter plays to the fans as they become loud in response. Jones is back on his feet. Carter sees him and kicks him in the gut. Carter smiles and attempts a kick again but has his leg caught. Jones hooks the leg and performs a fisherman suplex on Carter! He then covers for the pin!

1. 

. 

. 

Kick out by Carter! 

Joey Aiello: Well these two men have really gotten this match off to a strong start. It's hard to pick a winner here.

Jeremy Piven: Then don't.

Joey Aiello: Sorry to use such a hateful saying but.. Who pissed in your cereal?

Jeremy Piven: I was just thinking, perhaps Xplode is right. Maybe this place DOES need a shake up. I want to see more chaos in that ring too! Blood, carnage.. RATINGS! Now that is the type of match that I want to announce for!

Joey Aiello: Not me. I am here for the EWC way of things.

Jeremy Piven: Then perhaps I need a new partner here... who knows.
Which reminds me.. where is that sandwich?

Jones helps Carter to his feet. He performs a stalling suplex on Carter. Jones brings Carter back into place. Jones performs a Tiger Suplex followed up by another! The fans get louder now as Jones attempts another pin!

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Kickout by Carter! 

Frustrated, Jones pounds the mat hard with his fist. He helps Carter to his feet once again. Carter surprises the crowd as he suddenly unleashes a hellish round house kick to Jones's rib area! Another kick.. and another.. sends Jones stumbling backwards! A quick hook of the arms and Carter performs a hammerlock DDT!

Carter hooks the leg for the pin but Jones kicks out immediately! Carter helps Jones to his feet. Sliding Jones into place, Carter nails a Northern Lights Suplex to the delight of the fans! He follows this up with an elbow drop, and then a leg drop, each time sending the mat into a bouncing frenzy!

Joey Aiello: Carter is on fire here!!! Who would have seen this coming!!!?!

Hooking the leg once again, Carter attempts the pin!

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Kick Out by Jones! 

Carter punches Jones repeatedly! Hooking the leg, he attempts yet another pin but is countered with a head scissor submission by Jones! The fans scream with delight as Carter struggles to break free! Showing his strength, he pushes open the submission and rolls over unto Carter, driving stiff elbows into Carter's exposed face! Jones blocks the shots and grabs an arm, yanking him down unto the mat with an armbar! Carter uses the momentum though to break free and roll Jones up with a small package!

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Kick Out by Jones! 

Rolling away from one another, Carter lunges at Jones. Jones kicks him in the gut and lifts him, nailing a hellish snap DDT!!!! The fans cheer loudly as both men struggle to get back up. Exhaustion kicks in though, and only Jones is able to reach for the bottom rope in an effort to rise to his feet once more. Rising to his feet finally, Jones looks out at the fans as they scream in approval. He nods his head and looks over his shoulder now. Behind him, Carter has stumbled to his feet as well!

Turning to face Carter, Jones waits.. then nails his finisher.. the Brainbuster! The fans cheer loudly as Jones covers for the pin..

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THREE!!!

Jessica Stroup: Your winner.. Smith Jones!!!

The fans cheer loud enough to shake the arena! Jones smiles and falls against the ropes, soaking up the applause! He then rolls out of the ring and heads up the rampway, slapping the hands of the fans!

Joey Aiello: EXCELLENT showing by Jones tonight! We may be seeing the makings of a star..

---

BACKSTAGE

---

The show returns as we see Ruthann Parks. She is seen sitting on a crate, staring off in the distance. In the background, the feint sounds of the fans cheering can be heard. Removing a roll of wrist tape, Ruthann yanks it open and rips it with her teeth just as Sarah Yao arrives by her side. Sarah is out of breath, causing her to hunch forward and hold her knees. Now startled, Ruthann stands back up to full height and places a hand on Sarah's shoulder.

Ruthann: Relax, honey. What is the problem?

Regaining her composure, Sarah rises back up and tries to offer a simple smile, but finds it tough to do so. Her face is wrought with worry.

Sarah: It's Hunter... (Cough) He is going to pick a fight.. with Xplode.

Ruthann: WHAT?! WHERE IS HE? SARAH... NOW!

Sara motions for Ruthann to follow as she sprints back into the hallway! It does not take long to find the source of the commotion as they arrive at an office. A struggle is taking place within the room as the duo runs inside. Ruthann and Sarah immediately notice Ruthann's son, Hunter, holding a metal chair in his hand. Keeping a large wooden desk between them, Xplode snarls at Hunter as the youth yells back in his direction!

Hunter: YOU ASSHOLE!! I KNOW IT WAS YOU WHO ATTACKED MY DAD!! LET'S SEE HOW TOUGH YOU ARE, HUH?!! COME ON, DESTROYER!!! LET'S SEE IF YOU CAN TAKE A CHAIR SHOT TO THE FACE LIKE MY DAD DID!

Xplode looks in Ruthann's direction, his fists clenched.

Xplode: Ruth.. get this little shit out of my office before I toss him out myself!!!!

Ruthann looked over at Hunter,  heavy burden across her face.

Ruthann: HUNTER... PUT THE CHAIR DOWN! THIS IS NOT HOW WE HANDLE BUSINESS!

Hunter: NO MOM! Xplode put Roddy in the hospital and he has made your life a living hell! Someone has to stand up to him!!

Ruthann: Sure.. but not you. Not now. Sarah, take him back to my locker room. I will be there in a minute.

Xplode adjusts his suit and waves sarcastically at Hunter as he is escorted out of the office. Once the two of them are alone, he walks out from behind the desk.

Xplode: Your family sure loves to come in here and threaten me, don't they? It might be in your best interests to fill that kid in on what happens to people who annoy me. It would be a shame if he ended up in the emergency room next to Roddy Piper.. if you catch my drift.

Readjusting her hair into a pony tail, Ruthann frowns.

Ruthann: You just don't get it.. do you? Roddy didn't come in here to act like the jealous boyfriend. He was trying to stop you from making a huge mistake. That boy in there.. is your son, Jaden. 

Xplode: Do you really expect me to believe this crap?

Shaking his head, Xplode walks over to a liquor cabinet and pours himself a shot of whiskey.

Xplode: If this is a ploy to get me to play favorites with you then I have news for you.. I already have. Haven't you noticed that you are the talk of the town these days?! The entire wrestling industry is buzzing about you and this is the thanks that I get?! I saw something in you and only wanted to motivate you.. that's all. You were going to be the next big thing in the industry.. Unbelievable.

Ruthann: When you walked out on me, I was three months pregnant. Roddy came into my life about then and he took care of us since you were not man enough to do it yourself. Each stupid move that you have made against us over the last few weeks has only served to prove what type of a man you truly are to your own son. Think on that for awhile.. because I am tired of thinking about it alone.

Ruthann exits the office, leaving Xplode alone. He then slams the drink down and removes his cellphone from his coat pocket. Dialing the number, he waits for a time.. and then speaks.

Xplode: Alright.. do your thing.

(Voice on Phone): ..Consider it done.

---

BACKSTAGE

---

We are once again backstage where we see Gabreal Martin who is sitting alone laughing.

Gabreal Martin: You know this is just too perfect. Michael Saint you actually challenged me to a match at Stranglemania. I guess I must have struck a nerve a couple weeks back huh? My friends and I drop a little too much truth on you. I mean we got attacked a week later and I am to believe you had nothing to do with it I suppose. So at the biggest show of the year for this company I can either sit this one out or I can once again make a fool out of the one man I hate the most. I have to sit back and say I did not see this one coming. We all know you are not really in the condition to step into a ring one on one with anyone Michael. My answer is yes. Yes to it all. Yes to a match. Yes to Mark and Jay being banned from ringside. Yes to the last time anyone will ever see Michael Saint.

Gabe ponders for a second

Gabreal Martin: On one condition. No disqualification. Falls count anywhere in the building. I know you think you have suffered enough for your sins in this business Michael, but to me you haven't. I am going to make you suffer one last time. I am going to take the revenge on you I have been looking towards for so long.

Fade back to the ring

---

MATCH 8

TRIPLE THREAT MATCH

CHRIS MAVERICK Vs CHRIS MOSH Vs THE DREAM

---

Stroup: The following contest is scheduled for one-fall, and it is a triple threat match!

Piven: How many more of these are we going to have?

Seven Nation Army by "The White Stripes" plays as Chris Maverick walks to the ring in a black leather jacket with an angry face as he tags the fans while walking down the ramp and then he points his fist up with a big pop with the fans pointing up their fist as Chrisrolls in the ring and gets on the top rope and does another point the fist up pop with the fans then gets off the top rope and takes off his jacket and throws it in the crowd.

Stroup: Introducing first, from Hollywood, California, weighing in at 209 pounds.... Chris Maaaaaverick!

Seven Nation Army fades out into "Watch Me Now" by Bella Thorne and Zendaya. Pink and purple lights shine on the stage and ring as Chris Mosh comes out backwards in his purple hood with Mosh written in pink on the back of it. He spins on the top of the ramp as he walks down the ramp and slaps hands with the fans. He walks around the ring slapping hands with the fans and then when he get to the announce table he high fives the unbias one and then tries to get a high five from the bias one but then shrugs as he continues around the ring slapping hands with the fans then he gets back to the stairs and walks up them. He then jumps over the top rope as he spins into the ring. He then takes off his hoody and throws it into the crowd.

Stroup: And his opponent, from Las Vegas, Nevada, weighing in at 200 pounds... he is "The Party Boy" Chris! Mooooooosh!

A-MER-I-CA!

Piven: What the hell?

Blackout and pause for five seconds. Then a miserably small firework goes off and the music plays for a second before cutting out, causing the house lights to go up.

A-MER-I-CA!

"Living In America" starts up again as The Dream stumbles out, a goofy smile on his face. The Dream does a Goldberg-style "wild kick" and falls over as red, white, and blue lights begin to flash. The Dream recovers and begins to strut down to the ring, acknowledging the crowd along the way.

Stroup: And their opponent, currently residing at 222B Baker Street in South London, weighing in at.... "a very svelte 245 pounds"..... he is the Pesticidal, Spermacidal, School Recital Madman.... IT'S THE DREEEEEEEEEEEAAAAAMM!

Piven: What. The actual. Hell.

Maverick and Mosh seem a bit unaccustomed to their opponent, who's highfiving fans along the barricade. As he gets to the a. Ounce table, he highfives Aiello before rolling into the ring, dancing in time to the music.

*DING DING*

As soon as the bell rings, The Dream rolls to the outside, strutting around the ring as Mosh and Maverick look on in disbelief. After a full lap, Maverick strikes first, connecting with a clubbing forearm to the back. Maverick stays on the offensive, whipping Mosh into the turnbuckles before coming in with a huge clothesline. On the outside, Dream has begun to do the wave, slowly getting more and more of the EWC faithful to join in.

Piven: This is absolutely ridiculous. You have two men inside the ring, and then you have this goofball on the outside thinking this is some kind of joke!

Aiello: I don't know, it seems like he's trying to get the audience involved in this match.

Piven: Then do that inside the ring, not by trying to start a wave! What's next, vavuzelas?

Aiello: I hope not.

Maverick pulls Mosh out of the corner, connecting with a suplex before floating over, locking in a headlock. Mosh struggles in pain as Maverick tightens his hold, only to be surprised when Dream locks in the Cranium Crush! Maverick releases his grasp and struggles in pain, The Dream twisting his head back and forth. Dream seems to be close to drawing a submission when Mosh comes running in, connecting with a dropkick to the side of the head that forces Dream to let go of the hold.

Aiello: And the Party Boy looking to keep the match going, saving Maverick from a submission.

Piven: Matches like these, you need to have eyes in the back of your head. Just when you think you have an edge, someone else can swoop in and sen you back to square one.

Maverick and Mosh get to their feet, noticing the larger Dream getting to his feet. With a nod, they rush forward, looking for a tandem clothesline. However, Dream ducks underneath before bouncing off the ropes, connecting with a crossbody that sends both men down. Mosh rolls to the outside as Dream gets to his feet, taking time to do a victory dance.

Piven: See, this is what I'm talking about! Dream has the advantage, and what does he do? He's dancing!

Aiello: The Dream is a happy-go-lucky guy. Maybe he just wants to have fun.

Piven: Then he can be a clown. This is wrestling, people are going to get hurt.

Maverick gets to his feet, still noticing Dream doing his victory dance. Maverick looks to connect with a clothesline, when Dream ducks! Maverick goes rushing forward, unable to stop as Mosh pulls down the top rope, causing him to crash on the outside.

Aiello: Amazing! How did he know to avoid?

Piven: I suppose ring awareness, but-OH COME ON!

Aiello: What?

Piven: HE WAS TYING HIS SHOE! IT WAS ALL DUMB LUCK!

Dream gets up, looking none the wiser as Mosh and Maverick are on the outside. Noticing his opponents, Dream gets a running start... only to pause and calmly climb through the ropes, connecting with a double axe handle to Maverick. Mosh and Dream look like they're about to come to blows before Mosh holds a hand up. Curious, Dream pauses, allowing Mosh to pose for a selfie with a fan. Not to be outdone, Dream poses for a selfie with the same fan. Mosh and Dream begin arguing before Mosh gets an idea, leading to both men posing for a selfie! The fans are laughing as Maverick gets to his feet, yelling at them to take this seriously. Mosh and Dream look dejected as they slowly make their way to the ring, only to surprise Maverick with a double clothesline. Mosh and Dream roll back into the ring, sizing one another up.

Piven: This is a damn travesty. Chris Maverick came here to wrestle, and these two clowns are making a mockery of this business!

Aiello: We've had people interact with fans and have a good time.

Piven: Yeah, and they were actual clowns!

Dream and Mosh lock up, Dream using his larger frame to send Mosh into the turnbuckle before calmly backing away, seemingly showing off his surprising power. Mosh surprises Dream with a flurry of punches that sends the big man stumbling back. Mosh rushes forward, but Dream stumbles out of the way, still in a daze! Mosh keeps running, bouncing off the ropes again, but Dream still has trouble getting his footing, avoiding Mosh again! Mosh tries bouncing off the ropes a third time, but Maverick sweeps the legs! Mosh goes stumbling forward into the arms of Dream, who connects with a T-Bone Suplex! Cover!

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2...

Maverick breaks it up with a diving splash! Dream rolls off of Mosh in pain and rolls to the outside, having gotten the worst of that move. Maverick picks Mosh up, connecting with several uppercuts that send the Party Boy reeling. Mosh tries to fight back, but Maverick knows where to strike, targeting the stomach area that was just injured by the splash. Mosh doubles over in pain after a particularly nasty knee strike, leaving him open to being scooped up for an Alabama Slam! No! Mosh rolls through for a sunset flip! Maverick counters, rolling with the move before rolling Mosh up in a pin of his own!

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Dream has snuck in, rolling up Maverick in a schoolboy pin! Cover!

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3!! NO! Maverick kicks out, just as Mosh breaks up the pin. Dream gets to his feet, only to be taken down by a Party Pooper that sends him down to the mat. Maverick pounces, connecting with a swinging neck breaker. Rather than go for the pin, Maverick hoists Mosh up, locking in a double underhook. Maverick tries to lift him up, but Mosh shifts his weight, trying to avoid the Resolution of Death. Maverick tries to force Mosh up, but Mosh rams Maverick into the turnbuckle, breaking free of the underhooks.

Maverick stumbles out of the corner, directly into the waiting arms of Mosh. Mosh tries to connect with the Moshplex, but Maverick spins out! Boot to the gut.... Resolution of Death! Maverick rolls over into a pin as Dream crawls over, desperate to break the pin.

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THREE!!!

Dream is a second too late, pounding the mat in frustration as Maverick begins to celebrate.

Stroup: Here is your winner.... Chris! Maverick!

Joe Aiello: “So with everything that took place at the end of our show last week, there’s been a lot of rumors swirling around the interwebs.” 

Jeremy Piven: “Interwebs?” 

Joe Aiello: “Yes, interwebs. People say that.” 

Jeremy Piven: “And by people, you mean yourself and your mother?” 

Joe Aiello: “You know- - no. Ladies and Gentleman, we’re going to join President Mac in his office right now. He’s told us that he may have special guests joining him.” 

Jeremy Piven: “Is it Adrian Grenier? I miss Adrian.” 

---

BACKSTAGE

---

The image cuts backstage in to the lavishly refined office of EWC’s President Mac. President Mac smiles into the camera, then peers around his immediate vicinity. Several shadows cast down upon President Mac, their sources unknown. 

President Mac: “First and foremost I want to thank you all for coming. It's very important that you all listen closely to what I have to say, because I’m only going to say it one time.” 

The camera dollies away from President Mac’s long meeting table to reveal the sources of the shadows: Floyd “Sheriff” Shooter, Madison Mitchell, Derek Wellings, Shadow Man and Kurt Newman. Floyd leers at Mac from a corner of the room; his Stetson hat hides his eyes. Madison sits in the seat just beside President Mac; the two share several rounds of flirtatious gawking with each other. Wellings sits beside Madison with his feet up on the table, as he leans back in his chair. 

President Mac: “Specifically you two.” 

President Mac turns his gaze to Kurt Newman, who sits just beside Mac and across from Wellings, and Shadow Man, who stands uncomfortably close to Mac. 

Shadow Man: “You two? As in Me?” 

President Mac: “Yes, especially you. Almost all you in fact. I don’t think there’s ever a time where it isn't you not paying attention, your always off in some kind of Shadow-Land.” 

Shadow Man: “You don’t think, there’s ever…I think that’s a double negative, boss man. So I appreciate you saying I listen, because I do. I care. Call me Mister Care Bear” 

President Mac: “Okay that wasn't a double negative, Shadow. You know it wasn't and you’re already getting me off topic.” 

Shadow Man: “Hey, you brought it up. Not me. Care Bear count dow...” 

Floyd Shooter: “Shadow.” 

Shadow man looks over at Floyd, who tilts the Stetson up to reveal his eyes. 

Floyd Shooter: “Just let the man talk, huh?” 

Shadow Man: *sigh* "Ok then..” 

President Mac takes a sip of coffee, places his cup down on the table, and peers around once again at everyone. 

President Mac: “Right then. Like I was going to say, I've brought you all together tonight for obvious reasons. You all came to the aid of a fellow wrestler last week. One who, had it not been for all of you intervening, would probably be in the hospital right now. Instead he’s standing here beside me, way too close I might add, no worse for wear.” 

Shadow Man waves to everyone in the room, a large smile on his face. 

Shadow Man: “Thanks, Amigos” 

Madison Mitchell rolls her eyes, whilst Derek Wellings emits a small burp. 

Derek Wellings: “Sorry about that.” 

Shadow Man looks at Wellings with indignation. 

Shadow Man: “You’re sorry about saving me? Now that’s just- -“ 

Madison Mitchell: “He burped.” 

Shadow Man: “I thought i smelt garlic and *sniffs* bubble gum? Are you eating Garlic flavored Bubble Gum? Are there Vampires here? ... Sorry Mac.. Continue” 

President Mac takes a deep breath of restraint as he turns away from Shadow Man. 

President Mac: “Now I know that you all have your own goals and ambitions here in EWC, it’s one of the reasons I signed each of you. What you've shown me with your display last week is that you care for this company, for this brand, and for its fans. Nothing in your contract says you were obligated to do what you all did. So for that I want to give you all the gratitude of the EWC and its fans, and say thank you.” 

Shadow Man: “Cheers!” 

The group collectively peers in the direction of Shadow Man, who stands with his fist raises above his head in celebratory fashion. Shadow Man stares back at them, confused. 

Shadow Man: “Are we not doing that? Oh.” 

Shadow Man slowly lowers his arm to his side. 

President Mac: “What I have to ask of all of you now is something much more than I ever hoped to ask of one of my wrestlers. I need all five of you to protect EWC.” 

Mac allows for the gravity of the words to sink in with the group as he peers around at each of them individually, gauging their reactions. Mac’s gaze reaches Shadow Man and Kurt Newman, who give each other the look of: “He can’t be serious.”. 

President Mac: “I have never asked any wrestler of mine to go above and beyond their duties here in EWC, but I fear that it has come the time where I have to. There is a growing epidemic that is bubbling to the surface here, and being at the top I can see it festering down below. I can’t allow for it to spread any more than it already has. I wish I had some other solution to the situation, but for now you five are my best option.” 

Floyd Shooter catches eyes with Derek Wellings, and the two share a look of serious contemplation. Madison stares at President Mac and gives him a warm smile to calm his nerves. Meanwhile, Shadow Man fiddles with something in his hand as Kurt Newman looks on. 

Madison Mitchell: “I’ll do everything I can for you, Mac. You know that.” 

Derek Wellings nods at Floyd Shooter, who tips his Stetson in agreement. 

Derek Wellings: “Floyd and I have your back, boss. Consider us your law men, set to restore some order.” 

President Mac smiles and bows his head slightly to both Wellings and Shooter. 

President Mac: “I can’t say how much I appreciate that.” 

President Mac turns his attention to Shadow Man, who quickly slips his hands behind his back as Mac’s gaze reaches him. 

President Mac: “And what about you two?” 

Kurt Newman laughs. 

Kurt Newman: “You know I’m a bit insulted that you wouldn't simply assume I was in, Mac. Do I seem like the type of person to say no to beating the shit out of a bunch of punks?” 

President Mac lets the muscles in his face relax a bit, and bows his head slightly in the same fashion as he had previously. Mac then turns his attention back to Shadow Man, who now holds a beer in his hand. 

Shadow Man: “Where did I get this? Your fridge, but that’s not the issue at hand. What you want to know is whether I’m in, right Mac?” 

President Mac rolls his eyes slightly and then returns his gaze to Shadow Man. 

President Mac: “Right.” 

Shadow Man: “I am more in then somebody could possibly be in. I mean.. if you look up IN in the Dictionary, you would see a picture of Me with the Caption: Shadow Man is soooooo in. So yah, I'm in. In it. In it to win it. I am the in. Mister In. I’m certainly going to exact some revenge on those Chaos idiots. In.” 

President Mac exhales and then takes a deep breath. 

President Mac: “Good. Really, really good.” 

Mac turns to Madison Mitchell and smiles. Madison returns the smile. 

Shadow Man: “Let’s toast to it, huh?” 

Shadow Man pops the tab on his beer and holds it out in front of himself. President Mac looks down at his coffee, grabs it by the handle, and clanks it together with Shadow Man’s beer can. 

President Mac: “I guess now you can say- -“ 

Shadow Man: “Cheers!” 

Shadow Man takes a great swig of the beer and President Mac takes a sip of his coffee. Mac contorts his face, a result of the taste of the coffee. 

President Mac: “Now, you've all got something to get ready for tonight. Don’t let me deprive you of your own time. Let me again say though: Thank you.” 

President Mac takes another sip of his coffee. The wrestlers begin to vacate the office. As they do, President Mac turns to Madison. 

President Mac: “I hope this works.” 

Madison Mitchell: “Have faith.” 

President Mac sips his coffee once more, and again contorts his face. 

President Mac: “This is bitter, I thought I added more sugar.” 

Kurt Newman catches up to Shadow Man as they leave the office, and whispers to him. 

Kurt Newman: “Dude, you almost had Mac pissed at me in there.” 

Shadow Man: “Oh sack up, Newman.” 

Kurt Newman: “Whatever. What’d you put in his coffee?” 

Shadow Man: “Promise to keep it a secret?” 

Kurt Newman: “Sure, you schoolgirl.” 

Shadow Man: “Fine. It was just THC oil. Mac needs to relax, he has way too much on his mind.” 

Shadow Man smirks as him and Newman walk out of the office door, which leave President Mac and Madison Mitchell alone in conversation. 

---

MATCH 9

JAY REYNOLDS Vs JACOB QUINN

---

Inside the arena the fans are pretty aped up and pretty excited to see what goes down on the show next. It was about that moment the fans were caught off guard with a rather old song started to play over the arena's speakers. That song being none other than "Celluloid Heroes" by The Kinks. Fans almost right away found themselves reacting in a positive manner. Lots of cheers and even some of the fans were singing along with the tune. Not long after that walking out from behind the curtain and onto the stage happened to be none other than Jacob Quinn. He was rocking a pretty large fur coat and sun glasses that were as dark as they come. He cracked a little smirk tilting his sun glasses down on the bridge of his nose looking out at the crowd. Hearing their cheers get a little louder and that's when he pushed the sun glasses back up before beginning to walk down the ramp.

Stroup: The following contest is scheduled for one fall. Introducing first at this time from Los Angeles, California and weighing in at two hundred and thirteen pounds. They call him The Celluloid Hero, JACOB QUINN!"

Jeremy Piven: Jacob Quinn still is an unknown in the industry. I expect big things out of him.

Joey Aiello: His opponent tonight.. well.. it will be a huge wall for him to overcome.

By this point Jacob was already at the ringside area. He was about to walk up the steel steps when he noticed a young fan sitting there at ringside waving and cheering for him. Jacob let a smirk crack over his lips before he walked up to the kid removing the sun glasses of his and placing them on the child's face giving him a bit of a gift. Jacob turned and ran slightly sliding under the bottom rope. Getting to his feet as he charged across the ring and leaped onto the second rope of one of the corners. Lifting his one arm into the air taunting just a small bit got the crowd to pop loudly. He stayed like this for several seconds letting fans take pictures. Then Jacob leaped down to start removing his fur coat placing it down on the steel steps over in one of the corners. That's when his music died out and Jacob turned around to focus on the match that was set to take place.

Stroup: His opponent …

'This Fire Burns' by Killswitch Engage blasts out from the PA system and Jay Reynolds jogs out onto the stage and does his gun taunt as purple and green pyros go off around him. He walks down the ramp to a chorus of boos as he taunts the crowd on his way down.

Stroup: Making his way to the ring, from Chicago, Illinois, weighing 225lbs... The greatest wrestler never to win a World title... JAY REYNOLDS!!!!

He slides into the ring and climbs to the second turnbuckle and does his gun taunt again before stretching on the ropes.

Jeremy Piven: Let's get this match started. This one is sure to be a sloberknocker!

Jacob extends his hand to Jay but Jay is not buying it so Jacob tries to kick him in the gut but Jay catches the foot spinning him around and then kicks Jacob in the gut then throws him head first into the turnbuckle. Jacob then grabbed Jays hand and yanked him into the corner. Jacob then starts to kick Jay in the gut over and over then steps on his face as Jay was trapped in the corner. Jacob then show boats for the crowd before picking Jay up by the hair. Then Irish whips him across the ring but Jay grabs the turnbuckle Dragonrana on Jacob.

Joey Aiello: How long can Jacob hold out? Jay Reynolds is dangerous, and can end this match at any time!

Jeremy Piven: You worry too much.

Jacob rolls out of the ring and Jay holds his head. Then Jay walks over to the ropes and kicks Jacob in the face sending him to the ground. Just then Jay runs across the outside of the ring and clotheslines Jacob knocking again to the ground. Both men are holding their heads as they lay on the ground as the ref counts. Jay is up first as he slides in to break the count before sliding back out. Jay then kicks Jacob in the side then slides in the ring followed shortly after by Jacob. Jay grabs Jacob and tosses him from turnbuckle to turnbuckle then kicks him in the gut as Jacob was trapped in the corner. He then whips Jacob across the ring to the other turnbuckle and goes to follow with a clothesline but Jacob moves. Jacob hit Jay in the back as Jay was staggering and then repeats again. He then goes and takes out Jay’s knees knocking him to the ground for a quick cover…

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Kickout

Slowly both men get to their feet and then lock up in a test of strength as they fight for control. They flip each other a few times with arm drags before Jacob kicks Jay in the knees knocking him down. He then picks up Jay and sets him sailing into the ropes before hitting a Japanese Arm Drag. Jacob torks the arm causing Jay a lot of pain. After a few moments. Jay manages to escape the hold and roll to the outside.

Joey Aiello: Amazing match between these two men. I am on the edge of my seat!

Jacob goes to follow but it met by a clothesline when he hits the ground. Jacob gets to his feet and then manages to kick Jay and slam him in the ringpost before throwing him back in the ring. He get in the ring and starts to stretch and tork Jays arm again. He then drops a knee on the arm a few times. He then picks up Jay and whips him into the turnbuckle and hits the Welcome to Sunset Boulevard then attempts a cover.

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.

Kickout

Jacob again goes to work on the arm of Jay. Kicks him in the ribs and then picks him up and hits a Belly to Back Suplex before climbing the rope and hitting a Corkscrew Shooting Star Elbow Drop. He then covers.

1

.

.

.

2

.

.

.

3

Jessica Stroup: Your winner... Jacob Quinn!!

Joey Aiello: Hell of a win for Quinn tonight! That could be a springboard to fame for him!

Jeremy Piven: Agreed. I have a feeling though that Jay Reynolds will fire back.. somehow... someway.

---

MATCH 10

DAMIEN KINGSTON Vs PRINCE ASSAD

---

The arena is anything but quiet. Thousands of fans are in attendance, all of which are on the edge of their seats waiting for the next match. The arena lights found themselves dimming down a bit. Just as a guitar riff to kick off "World Divided" by Downstait could be heard hitting the speakers inside the arena. Right away the fans were able to put two and two together. Lots of mixed reactions could be heard. It was like the fans were split right down the middle. Cheers and Boos could be heard clear as day.

After a few more seconds the curtain could be seen being pushed aside. Stepping out through the curtain at that particular moment was none other than the man himself. He was commonly referred to as the "Man of Liberty" Damien Kingston. Kingston had his zip up hoodie on and the hood was up covering his face. As he makes his way to the center of the ramp, dropping down to his knees with a bit of a smirk spread across his face. He nodded his head to the music a bit before reaching up and pulling the hood back. As he did that Kingston tilted his head backwards and stretched his arms out to either side of him.

He looked right up at the sky with that smirk seemingly growing. The fans seemed to still be torn. The boos got louder at the same time the cheers got louder. He was only in that position for a couple of seconds. Kingston pushed himself up to his feet and grabbed a hold of the front of his jacket starting unzip in while talking down to the ring with an attitude in each step he made.

Jessica Stroup: The following match is set for one fall. Introducing at this time. All the way from New York City, New York. Standing 6’1” and weighing in at two hundred and twenty pounds, “The Man of Liberty”, DAMIEN KINGSTON!

Kingston was already approaching the ringside area. That smirk still featured across his very lips. He took his hoodie off his body and just laid it there in the corner of the ring before he grabbed one of the ring ropes pulling himself up on the apron. He turned his back towards the ropes and looked out over the crowd with that smirk. Nodding his head at their reactions. Not seeming to care which way they went. They could boo him, he thrived off hate. They could cheer him, it gave him that extra boost. Soon enough he turned himself around on the apron to face the ring.

He placed one leg over the middle rope and then ducked down getting into the ring. Upon being inside the ring Kingston went to the nearest turnbuckle he could find. Getting to the second turnbuckle. He peered out over the mixed crowd. Before he proceeded to raise his hands into the air and then sticking them out to the side followed by lifting his head back. Literally the same exact taunt that he had done before on the ramp. Not much had changed with their reaction. After a few seconds Kingston leaped down from the turnbuckle as he music started to fade. He faced the middle of the ring waiting for the next course of action to take place.

Jeremy Piven: This is the year of Damien Kingston, I’m calling that right now. There’s no way The Man of Liberty is going to lose again here tonight.

Joe Aiello: You might be right. But don’t forget about his young opponent. His first loss made him that much more hungrier.

Jessica Stroup: Introducing his opponent, from Cairo, Egypt. Standing 6’2” and weighing in at 245 pounds, Prince Abdullah Assad!

"Do You Call My Name" blares over the PA system and Prince Assad comes out with a turban on his head. He looks at the fans and shakes his head as he walks down to the ring. He doesn't interact with them at all as he slides into the ring and hits the turnbuckles

The bell rings. Prince Assad stands in his corner and Kingston stands in his. Kingston walks to the center of the ring, as Prince Assad follows. They get nose to nose, as the fans cheer in anticipation. Prince Assad looks to his left. Kingston looks to his right. Prince Assad then looks to his right. Kingston looks to his left. Prince Assad then looks at Kingston. Kingston now looks at Prince Assad. Kingston extends his arm. Prince Assad hesitates at first, but then takes it as the fans go nuts.

Joe Aiello: Maybe a bit of a peace offering first?

Jeremy Piven: The internet said it best with IT’S A TWAP!

Kingston takes a cheap shot by kicking Prince Assad in the gut. Kingston runs to the ropes and back to Prince Assad, but Prince Assad clotheslines Kingston down to the mat. Kingston jumps up, runs at Prince Assad. Prince Assad backs down and throws Kingston over his head and onto the mat. Prince Assad starts to stomp on Kingston. He picks Kingston up, and slams his head on the turnbuckle. Prince Assad chops Kingston across the chest. Prince Assad headbutts Kingston in the ribs. Prince Assad then kicks Kingston in the gut and delivers a major DDT!!

Prince Assad grabbed Kingston’s head and locks in a headlock. Kingston’s strength is mesmerizing as he stands up, still having the headlock locked in. Kingston knees Prince Assad in the gut and delivers a few shots to the head then shots to the ribs. Kingston elbows Prince Assad in the chest and connects a Hip Toss Suplex. Kingston runs to the ropes and delivers an Asia Moonsault. Kingston locks in the Boston Crab, but Prince Assad gets out of the hold by flipping Kingston over his head and onto his back.

Joe Aiello: These mean are systematically breaking each other down, but neither are showing any bit of weakness.

Jeremy Piven: But one will eventually give into other’s will.

Prince Assad slowly gets up and knees a kneeling Kingston in the back of the head. He picks Kingston up and delivers a sudden Spinning Sit Out Powerbomb. Prince Assad goes on the turnbuckle and delivers the Pendulum Elbow drop!

Prince Assad picks Kingston up by his hair and knees him straight in the gut. He delivers the Michinoku Driver on Kingston. Prince Assad drags Kingston to the corner, sitting him on the bottom turnbuckle, walks to the opposite corner, runs back towards Kingston, and delivers a Running corner dropkick! Prince Assad picks Kingston up and just throws him outside the ring. He brushes his shoulders and gets the fans riled up in a great way. Kingston is standing outside, slanting down on the ring apron. Prince Assad runs and hits a baseball slide and lays Kingston out on the outside. Prince Assad lays by the ropes, taunting his opponent. The Ref begins to count them out.


One...


Two...


Three...


Four...


FIVE...


SIX...

Kingston is up and pulls Prince Assad from underneath the ropes. Kingston goes into the ring, runs to the opposite ropes, runs back, and delivers the Suicide Dive to an already standing up Prince Assad. Both men are out cold. The referee has to start the count over again.

One...


Two...


Three...


Four...


FIVE...


Kingston is in the ring by the count of 9 and but so is Prince. Kingston is in control as he picks Prince Assad up and hits a German Suplex, followed by a Standing Dropkick. Kingston goes to the apron, jumps on the top rope, and connected with a Phoenix Splash. The Man of Liberty then locks in the Armbar Crossface but Prince Assad eventually gets his foot on the ropes to end the submission move.

Jeremy Piven: These men are playing too much with fire. It’s going to burn them and I hope it’s not Kingston, and that would be a horrible day for everyone.

Joe Aiello: I could have swore we were to stay impartial.

Prince Assad gets up, but Kingston takes advantage of the hurt Prince Assad. Kingston hits a Quad Bomb on Prince Assad. Out of nowhere, Prince Assad rolls Kingston up as he tries to pick him up!



One…


TWO…


Kick out by Kingston! The Man of Liberty gets up and starts stomping, kicking and punching Prince Assad while he’s on the ground. Kingston then sets Prince Assad up for a Swinging DDT but Prince Assad escapes over Kingston’s head and onto the mat to dodge that move.

Joe Aiello: What a great escape by Prince Assad but can he capitalize?

Jeremy Piven: He’s as good as done! At this point, he’s just delaying the inevitable!

Recovering quickly, Prince Assad picks Kingston and immediately goes for Downfall of America but Kingston blocks it and instead counters with the Falling From The Empire! He goes for the cover!



One...




TWO...




THREE!!!!

The ref rings the bell, as this match is over. Damien throws his hands up victoriously with the referee.

Jessica Stroup: Here is your winner by pin fall, “The Man of Liberty” DAMIEN KINGSTON!

Joe Aiello: "The Man of Liberty" Damien Kingston is on a roll again! Unbelievable!

Jeremy Piven: Just when he thought he had the win, Prince Assad when for the win but Damien Kingston just stole it from him here tonight!

"World Divided" by Downstaight plays to commerical break as Damien Kingston is taunting the cameras.

---

MATCH 11

LADDER MATCH 1

MADISON MITCHEL Vs SHELLY SILVER Vs RUBY

---

Jessica Stroup: The following is a Triple Threat Ladder match. The only way to win is to climb to the top of the ladder and pull down the briefcase. Inside the briefcase is a guaranteed championship at Stranglemania X. Introducing first, standing 5’8” tall and weighing at 130 lbs, from Philadelphia, PA, she is MADISON MITCHELL!

'Push It' is heard as Madison Mitchell makes her way to the top of the entranceway moving to the music enthusiastically. She begins her march to the ring, pumping the fans up on the way as she takes the time to greet them and point at some of the signs being held up to support her. She jogs up the ring steps and steps under the middle rope, jogging to the middle of the ring and jumping up and down a few times to get herself ready for action.

Joe Aiello: Madison Mitchell has been on a really good roll since she started here in EWC. Can this young woman be victorius again? Will she be looking for a championship match at Stranglemania?

Jeremy Piven: Who knows? It would be interesting nevertheless but don’t forget, we got two more hungry young Starlets in this match too.

Jessica Stroup: Her opponent, from Seattle, WA. Standing 5’6” and weighing in at 140 lbs, she is SHELLEY SILVER!

The lights go down as “The Devil Within” begins to play. Shelley slowly makes her way onto the stage, taunting the crowd during the haunting words are sung during the first verse. Then when the music picks up, she runs down the ramp, sliding into the ring. She continues taunting the crowd until the chorus is finished and the lights go up.

Jeremy Piven: This woman might be the next big thing if she plays her cards right here tonight.

Joe Aiello: Everything could change right here tonight for Shelley Silver. It would be a great launch into Stranglemania to have a win with a title shot.

Madison Mitchell and Shelley Silver lock eyes and glare at once another. They stare into the other and speak trash as the third and final participant in this match is announced.

Jessica Stroup: And their opponent, standing 5’3” and weighing in at 115 lbs, from Las Vegas, NV, she is RUBY!

“Freak Like Me” by Halestorm hits the sound system as the lights in the arena dim down. Smoke fills the entrance and a spotlight shines on the backstage entrance.. Moments later, Ruby steps out from behind the curtain with Zane right by her side. She glares around those in attendance with a wicked smile on her face as she enjoys the boos she is receiving. After standing at the top of the ramp for a few moments, she starts making her way to the ring with Zane following right beside her.

Once they get to the ring, she turns and looks at Zane and he doesn’t hesitate in grabbing her by the waist, lifting her up and on to the ring apron. He pulls himself up beside her where he sits on the second rope for her. She leans down and gives him a quick kiss, before she steps through the ropes. She doesn’t even acknowledge the crowd as she stands in one of the corners, glaring across the ring at her opponent. As her music dies down, she turns and gives Zane another quick kiss before he jumps down to the outside of the ring, waiting for the match to begin by staring into her opponent’s eyes with them each trying to decided who is more dangerous.

Joe Aiello: These ladies can very easily make history tonight. One of them will be guaranteed a title shot at Stranglemania X. Along with Ruthless Aggression, they’ll could very well leave with champion gold and join Beth Harte as one of the few women in EWC History to win gold.

Jeremy Piven: That’s assuming they win, there’s always the chance that they could lose and leave with nothing. But one of these three ladies will leave with a chance at gold.

Ruby fires the first punch decking Shelly in her face, she then turns to Madison and decks her. The two stumble back and get punches to their faces and Ruby bounces off the ropes but both Shelley and Madison stop her by lifting her up by her legs and hitting a Spinebuster. Ruby rolls out the ring and both Shelly & Madison look at each other and Madison strikes her opponent first but Shelley counters with a Ezugiri Kick. Madison hits the ropes and gets several Knife Edge Chops over her chest. Recovering, Ruby stands up and pulls Madison out of the ring.

Madison is helped up by Ruby and as she tries to attack her opponent, Shelley comes out of the ring with a Suicide Dive. The two catch her and all three go down outside with Shelley getting up first and celebrating. Ruby recovers first and is on her hands and knees; Shelley tries to grab her opponent and gets a swift kick in her gut.

Thinking quickly, Ruby stands up then hits a Powerslam her opponent on the ground outside the mat. By this time, Madison recovers enough to reach under the ring and pull out the first ladder and it’s Ruby on her ribs knocking her against the barricade.

Jeremy Piven: These women are destroying each other! I love the sight of women being merciless towards one another. I know these people are going to get their money’s worth tonight.

Joe Aiello: The people at home aren’t getting short counted either. Everyone watching must be on the edge of their seats watching in excitement. Neither of these women are going to back down easily.

Madison lifts the ladder up and smashes the legs on both of her opponent’s backs and legs, trying to cripple them. She then tosses the ladder into the ring and slides in with it. Just as she was setting up the ladder, Shelly gets in the ring with Ruby slowly recovering outside. Shelly comes in and hits a Scissor Kick on her opponent, knocking her into the ladder, bashing her face off it and into the turnbuckle head first. Shelley starts slamming her opponent’s face into the turnbuckle itself, the audience starts to count as Ruby recovers, grabs a chair from under the ring and stalks her opponents. Just as Madison’s face hits for the tenth time, Shelley turns around to taunt Madison and instead gets hit in her face with the steel chair.

Tossing the chair aside, Ruby goes up the turnbuckle and waits for her opponents to get up. Luckily for her they both get up and as she attempts a Double Diving Spear, Madison rolls out the way allowing Shelley to take the whole blunt of the attack. Thinking quickly, Madison turns to see Ruby standing up and hits a Step Up Enzugiri on her. Ruby falls back on the ropes, allowing Madison time to get back up and deliver several over the head punches to Ruby.

Joe Aiello: Madison Mitchell really wants to the win, she’s really letting Ruby and Shelley taste her power right here and right now.

Jeremy Piven: Only one of them will actually leave with a guaranteed title shot. So watching them not holding back should be expected. What would surprise me is if they’ll still be in one piece or even beautiful after this one.

Madison keeps punching her opponent until she pulls her off and hits a Snap DDT. Madison tries to taunt her opponent but is stopped as Shelley has recovered enough to hit a Springboard Spinning Kick, knocking down Madison. Shelley now has a chance to celebrate and does so before she starts to climb the ladder. The fans cheer loudly as she gets to the halfway point but Ruby quickly recovers and starts to climb the ladder. Just as Shelley reaches for the briefcase, Ruby gets near the top and punches her opponent in her gut. She doubles over and Ruby punches her again, but she’s blocked and the two trade blows. Madison recovers enough, sees the two fighting on the ladder and pushes the ladder. The two hold on for to each other for dear life as Madison gets Ruby and Shelley to crash hard into the ropes and canvas respectively.

The fans cheer loudly at the site of the two hitting the ground and ropes loud. With a great heave, Madison lifts up the ladder and runs at her opponents and smashes their ribs. The two hit the canvas hard and groan loudly. She sets the ladder up again, directly under neat the brief case and looks at the briefcase. Smiling widely, she grabs the steel chair and smashes it several times against the canvas waiting for one of her opponents to stand up.

Jeremy Piven: I love malicious intent and that woman is thinking of something most evil. Win at any cost and this woman will do absolutely anything to do that. Sacrifice the weak so the strong survive.

Joe Aiello: Each woman has shown they’re able to stand up in this fight. Each of them has inflicted a nasty amount of pain to the other women. Every0oen in these ladder matches tonight is going to absolutely break the other down in any way shape and form. All hail to her who leaves with the briefcase.

Ruby is the first to stand up and the first to get smashed with the chair. She hits the ground hard and rolls on the side of the canvas holding her face. Madison smashes the canvas several times looking at Shelley as he keeps her back facing her opponent. The crowd claps along as she stands up holding the ropes. With the chair over her head, Madison swings down hard trying to take out Shelley but she thinks fast, falls on the canvas and allows the ropes to reflect the strike back into Madison’s face.

She hits the ground hard, holding her face worrying about scars. Shelley shakes her head several times and recovers getting Madison up and hitting her with a quick Savat Kick following up with a Side Russian Leg Sweep. Seeing an opening she tries to climb the ladder but Ruby quickly gets up and attacks her from behind.

Joe Aiello: Could we be seeing a winner here very soon?

Jeremy Piven: We are seeing the future of EWC here now. Who is going to win? Can Shelley Silver climb that ladder and win the match and discover what that briefcase has for her?

Shelley Silver climbs the ladder first, but Madison Mitchell sees her opponent trying to climb the ladder. She quickly climbs the ladder after her opponent. The two are looking at each another and then trade blows with one another. ShelleySilver leans far back but manages to throw her fist and push back RUBY. RUBY tires another swing and it stuns her opponent. Ruby notices the two groggy and dizzy on the ladder and with a mighty push of strength shoves the ladder over. Shelly Silver and Madison Mitchell fall out of the ring and land on the hard floor, neither one moving at all.

Setting up the ladder once more, Ruby climbs the ladder. The fans cheer loudly as she tries to grab the briefcase. It swings around out of her reach but after a few minutes of struggling, Ruby grabs the briefcase and unhooks it. She falls backwards and lands on the ground holding the briefcase, screaming joyously.

Jessica Stroup: Here is the winner of this match, RUBY!!!

Jeremy Piven: That’s it, this match is over! Ruby you are going to Stanglemania X to compete for a championship! What a great night for this young lady!

Joe Aiello: That’s nothing, we’re about to find out right now what the title she’s going to compete for at Stranglemania. Let’s see which one it is!

The referee walks over to Ruby who is holding the Briefcase, he enters the code and the Briefcase opens up. Ruby reaches into the Briefcase and pulls out a paper

"EWC WORLD TITLE SHOT AT StrangleMania X"

Aiello: Wow! Ruby just earned herself a shot at the EWC World Title! That's incredible

Piven: Which means we might find out her opponent here tonight in one of these other ladder matches

Ruby holds the paper close to her chest as she smiles and screams YESSSSSS!

---

MATCH 12

LADDER MATCH 2

NICK WADDEN Vs BROCK WHITWORTH Vs SHADOW MAN

---

Aiello: Ladies and Gentlemen, as if tonight's action hasn't been intense enough, we've got this highly anticipated ladder match between three tremendous competitors tonight.

Piven: Tonight is an opportunity for either our Mexican food obsessed legend, Shadow Man, high rising up and comer Nick Wadden, or Australia's go-to guy, Brock Whitworth, to climb the ladder to success.

Aiello: And now, our first competitor....

Entrance: The lights in the arena slowly begin to dim as everyone in the arena quickly get's to their feet and begin to make some noise. "Invincible" by OK Go then begins to play over the Sound System as three strobe lights begin to pulse in the entrance way, fog then begins to rise from below the stage in front of the entrance. 

The X-Treme Tron lights up counting down from 9 all the way to 1. It seems as though every single person is on there feet counting down the numbers. Once it gets to 0 large letters flash “IT'S SHOWTIME”. 

An enormous uproar of cheers now blends out the blasting of "Invincible"! A few moments later Shadow Man walks from behind the wall of Fog onto the stage. He stands their for a few seconds with a smirk on his face and begins to point to the fans who are screaming the loudest. 

Shadow then looks towards the camera with a cocky yet confident look on his face as he begins to walk down the ramp and towards the ring. On the way he makes silly faces into the camera. After waving at the fans while walking down the ramp Shadow runs and slides onto the ring apron on one knee and holding onto the middle Rope, Shadow gets to his feet and in a cocky manor steps threw the first and second Ropes. 

He then gets into the ring and runs over to the corner and jumps up onto the second turnbuckle. He pats himself on the chest twice and then points to all the screaming fans. He then points to the sky and pumps his fist for Memphis Reigns! Shadow then jumps down from the turnbuckle and turns around and leans in the corner and awaits for the match to begin 

Stroup: Ladies and Gentlemen, coming to the ring first, weighing in at 245lbs.....The One and Only: SHADOW MAN

Aiello: What a rousing Steel-town reception for the EWC icon! 

Piven: If it wasn't for the fact the nut keeps spilling guacamole on my damn carpet, I'd say he was the greatest of all time. I've got to dry clean that crap out, Shady!

She got down on hands and knees one ear against the ground holding

her breath to hear something but the dirt made not a sound....

TONIGHT

As the opening strains of "The Dirt Whispered" by Rise Against ring out in the arena, Brock Whitworth emerges from behind the scenes and sumgly looks around the arena. He steps out onto the ramp, lets out a primal scream, smacks the floor, raises his arms, and pyro shoots off behind him. 

Stroup: "Introducing, weighing in at 230 lbs. Standing 6'3" tall, "The Pride of Brisbane" Brock Whitworth!!"

Brock makes his way down to the ring, ignoring some fans, but saying hi to others on the way there. He hops up onto the apron, climbs through the ropes and scrambles up a turnbuckle, and waves at the crowd, to mixed reactions. Brock pays no mind to this and heads to the center of the ring, where he hops up and down, waiting for the match to begin.

Aiello: A huge opportunity for Whitworth tonight. The Pride of Brisbane's been a very competitive fighter since arriving in EWC; tonight, he can take his career in the EWC to the next level.

Piven: He's one of the stronger and more skilled roster members, but he's got a tall order against a legend and Nick Wadden. Still, if anybody can pull off an upset, it's Brock!

But as Nick Wadden's theme music play, Shadow Man takes a running start, and dives through the ropes, nailing Wadden with a flying shoulder tackle! After taking a brief moment to get his bearings, Shady begins to pummel Wadden with punches. Brock joins in the scrum, pounding on Wadden mercilessly. Brock puts Wadden into a gut wrench, then, with an assit by Shadow Man...POWERBOMBS NICK WADDEN INTO THE GUARD RAIL!!

Aiello: Brock Whitworth just broke Nick Wadden in half! Absolutely devastating gut-wrench power bomb.

Piven: They're taking out the weak link first. Between Shady's kamikaze attack and that move, I think tonight's gonna end with him taking an ambulance ride!

Brock and Shady shake hands, then start trading blows with each other. Whitworth eventually gets the upper hand, stunning Shadow with a European Uppercut, then, after a few powerful knee strikes to the midsection, scoop slams Shady onto the concrete. He doesn't waste much time, tossing Shadow into the ring, then rolls into the ring. Whitworth picks Shady up, looks to Irish Whip him, but instead, pulls him back in and connects with a textbook belly to belly suplex!

Aiello: Brock Whitworth is on point right now! He is not letting Shady catch his breath right now!

Piven: You can't let a guy like Shadow have any peace in that ring; if you want to have a chance to take him down, you have to just keep on him non-stop!

Whitworth lands a quick elbow drop onto Shady's chest. He picks Shadow Man back up, and whips him into the corner with a authority. Whitworth charges at Shady, but the veteran puts up the boot for defense, knocking Whitworth back. Shady gets behind Brock, and shows he's got his own suplex game by bouncing Whitworth off the canvas with a dragon suplex!

Aiello: A classic Shadow Man move. That will turn the tables in this match.

Piven: You know what else is classic Shady? Spilling pico de gallo into my heater vents. Now my Mercedes-Benz smells like a taco stand permanently!

Shadow keeps up the heat. He whips Brock into the opposite corner, clotheslining him the instant Brock hits the post. Brock stumbles like Ric Flair before he face flops onto the canvas. Shadow Man climbs the turnbuckle, gives another shout-out to Reigns, and connects with a moonsault!

Piven: Shadow Man's in the driver's seat now.

Shady slides out and searches under the ring for a ladder. he finds one, but as he starts to pull it out, it's seemingly jammed on something. By the time Shady produces it, Whitworth rises to his feet, shaking the cobwebs. He notices Shady with the ladder, and quickly makes him pay for his procrastination with a baseball slide that smashes the ladder's edge right into Shady's neck! 

Aiello: Quick and savvy veteran move by the Pride of Brisbane! That will make eating Mexican a little difficult for the EWC Icon tomorrow!

Piven: How did Whitworth know how to baseball slide? Do they even HAVE baseball in Australia? I've never seen a cricket slide in my life!

Whitworth grabs the ladder and throws it into the ring, then Shadow Man is next to get tossed inside. Whitworth props the ladder up against the turnbuckle, making sure it's nice and snug. He pummels Shadow Man with punch combos, and while woozy, Whitworth takes a page out of Shady's playbook and T-Bone suplexes him into the table, producing a horrible sound of metal warping! 

Aiello: I am sure glad we get a wholesale discount on ladders! We go through these things like toilet paper in EWC!

Piven: I think that's why people at Home Depot are super happy when Mac shows up; they know they're going to move some merchandise that day!

Whitworth drags the ladder to the center of the ring and tries to set it up. But after that vicious suplex, this model's nothing but scrap. Frustrated, Whitworth slides out and gets another ladder. When he's beck in the ring, Shady stops him from setting up the ladder by landing a standing dropkick on Whitworth. Shady brings him up into an Argentinian torture rack....

HE DRIVES WHITWORTH HEAD FIRST INTO THE LADDER WITH DARKNESS!

Aiello: Good GOD! What a sickening sound!

Piven: *starts singing* Aussie, Aussie, Aussie....OW! OW! OW! That might've knocked 5th grade clean out of Brock's head!

Both men are sprawled on the mat, and the audience is on their feet. Some are shouting Shady, while Whitworth's got his own cheering section. Shady's first on his feet, but then...

Aiello: With all this action in the ring, we've almost forgotten that Nick Wadden's still creeping around

Piven: Well, that's easy to do, when someone contributes jack shit to a major match!

Shady sees Wadden, and also sees a fan in a tacky Hawaiian shirt chilling in the front with a trash can next to him. Shady runs out to the guardrail and grabs the can from him, but not before giving the lucky fan a $50 Taco-Bell gift card. There's a bunch of hardcore goodies inside: first Wadden gets a toaster upside his temple. Then, a big 80's style cell phone like Paul Heyman used to carry finds it's way crashing into Wadden's face. Then, with Wadden down, Shady pulls out one last goodie: A STAPLE GUN!

Aiello: Oh no! Shady is about to go New Jack on Wadden!

Piven: He's not going to use that things to fix his roofing shingles!

Shady raises it to the crowd's delight, then screaming and a repeating popping sound echoes through the arena. The camera zooms in to the see Wadden's bloodied chest...

SHADY WROTE OUT THE WORD "TACO" ON HIS CHEST WITH STAPLES!

Aiello: I don't think Taco Bell had that in mind when it came to endorsing it's product!

Meanwhile, Brock Whitworth's back in action. He slides out, grabs two tables, and starts setting them up. Then, he calls for Shady to throw Wadden into the ring. Both Shady and Whitworth pick Wadden up, place him in a double crucifix position; DOUBLE CRUCIFIX POWERBOMB TO THE OUTSIDE LEAVES THE FURNITURE AND WADDEN A BROKEN MESS OUTSIDE THE RING!

Crowd:HOLY SHIT! HOLY SHIT

Piven: Oh, yeah! Definitely glad we get furniture and hardware at wholesale!

Now, it's just Shady and Whitworth. Shady gets the upper hand quick, crack Whitworth, already bloodied, in the forehead with the staple gun. With Brock down, Shady sets up the ladder he previous dropped Whitworth head first on. But Brock proves he's very resilient. He gets up, charges, and before Shadow can start climbing, Whitworth connects with a Kill Shot, and both men are down again!

Aiello: Amazing! Just when you thought Brock was finished, he almost breaks Shady's jaw with that shot!

Piven: Both men are showing real heart tonight! They want this, like Shady wants to be locked in a Chipotle's overnight!

At least 30 seconds passes before we see any movement from either competitor. Finally, both men, bleeding and exhausted, start climbing. They both reach the ladder at the same, and trade blows. They both grab the ladder, which falls over, and they are now literally hanging for their lives by the suspended briefcase. The support rope snaps, both men fall clutching the briefcase....

KER-RANG! THEY BOTH LAND ON THE LADDER AT THE SAME!

Aiello: Who's got the briefcase?

After a few moments, we get a clear shot, and on top of a busted, and bloodied ladder....SHADY SOMEHOW MANAGED TO HANG ON!

Aiello: It's over! Shady did it!

YOUR WINNER, BY VIRTUE OF POSSESSION OF THE BRIEFCASE....SHADOW MAN!

Aiello: What a mind blowing and brutal match! Both men gave it their all, and somehow, Shadow Man managed to get the case. That could have gone anyways!

Piven: The Pride of Brisbane may have lost tonight, JoJo, but Brock Whitworth has nothing to be ashamed of! Not only was he milliseconds from upsetting probably the greatest wrestler in EWC history, he turned his game up another level. What a inspired and extreme effort from him and Shady tonight.

Meanwhile, as the fans are cheering, EMT's are checking on both men! Shady, with his face looking like somebody dunked it in Fire sauce, spits out a wad of blood, smiles at Brock, and gurgles.

Shadow Man: Damn good effort tonight, Brockles. You sir, get a taco...after I get a couple of pints of blood put back in me!

The ref walks over to Shadow Man who is holding the Briefcase while laying on the ground. He enters the code and the Briefcase opens up. Shadow Man reaches in and pulls out a paper. He looks at, grins and then passes out

The camera zooms in on the paper and an eruption of cheers takes over the Arena

"HARD CORE TITLE MATCH AT StrangleMania X"

Piven: Unbelivable, Shadow Man gets his chance to once again hold the Hard Core Championship

---

MATCH 13

LADDER MATCH 3

ERIC STEEL Vs DEREK WELLINGS Vs MIKE CORRAL

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Jessica Stroup: Ladies and gentlemen, the following match is a Triple Threat Ladder match! In this match there is no pin fall or submission and the only way to win is by climbing the ladder and retrieving the briefcase. Introducing first, standing 6’2” and weighing in at 223 lbs, from Toronto, Ontario, Canada, he is “The Lone Solider” ERIC STEEL!

"Say I Won't" plays throughout the pa system as boos shower down Eric Steel comes out through the curtains as he walks down the ramp. A smirk crawls on his face as he trahs talks the fans. He raises his arm as he continues to walk down the ramp. He walks up the stairs, entering the ring momentarily. He proceeds to raise his arm again as the boos begin to grow. He steps aside as he waits patiently for his opponent.

Joe Aiello: The former host of Bottomline is trying for a big win here tonight. He could be competing for one of the major championships at Stranglemania. But which one will he go for should he win here tonight?

Jeremy Piven: Who knows that answer outside fate? What I do know is we’ve seen a much more aggressive and much more dominant Eric Steel over the past several weeks and I like it. We might be seeing another telephone broken over one of his opponent’s faces tonight.

Joe Aiello: I hope we don’t see another massive head injury like Derek Wellings suffered a few weeks ago, but I do know we’ll be seeing a dangerous match here tonight. These three men are very good at what they do and each of them are a true champion of extreme.

Jessica Stroup: Hisopponent, standing 6’4” and weighing in at a280 lbs, from Detroit, Michigan, he is “The Airborne Ranger” DEREK WELLINGS!



Derek Welling excitedly runs out on top of the Entrance Ramp. He taunts the crowd to raise the roof on one end, and succeeds. Derek then runs over to the other end and taunts the other end successfully. Quickly, Derek runs down to the ring and slides in ala Edge. Pointing to the crowd, Derek pumps his fist back and forth like a pair of pistons, then cups them around his mouth for a shout out. Once the crowd is riled up from the shout out, Derek flexes his arms in a strong man pose, then crosses them over his chest and waits for the match to begin.

Jeremy Piven: Here comes the previous EWC Tag Team Champion to the ring now and a few weeks ago we saw Eric Steel destroy this man with a telephone. It was the greatest thing I’ve ever seen in my entire life. And it seems to have actually knocked something in that goofy head of his straight.

Joe Aiello: I have to disagree with you on the most part. But I do agree that Derek Wellings did have something in his head knocked straight. We haven’t seen him this focused or serious at any point have we? Well tonight, we’ll be seeing if the Airborne Ranger is ready to finally be taken seriously and get a chance to shine at Stranglemania or not.

Jessica Stroup: And their opponent, standing 6’2” tall and weighing in at 192 lbs, from the Shores of La Jolla in San Diego, California, he is “The Strong Style Element” MIKE CORRAL!

The lights turn white and blue as the opening of "Gimmie Shelter" begins to play. As the vocals begin, Mike Corral steps out, looking out into the captive crowd. He makes his way to the ring, playing to the crowd. As he gets to the ring, the music slows a bit as he poses on the top turnbuckle, hands outstretched as he tilts his head back. After a few seconds, Corral lowers his arms and looks out into the crowd before hopping off. Corral then sits cross-legged, waiting for the match to begin.

Joe Aiello: We’re looking at the former EWC United States Champion now, who is also a former Tag Team Champion himself. This man has never been in a better shape and has never been more focused on anything in his entire career here in EWC. He never lost the United States Championship and wants to win it back at Stranglemania.

Jeremy Piven: We’re looking at one I feel will most certainly win this match if you ask me. Mike Corral’s time in the sun is long overdue and tonight he’s going to win the night. Either him or Eric Steel, they’ve been a lot more serious and a lot more dangerous here in recent weeks. Now they’ve got a chance to capitalize on that. Can one of these men defeat Derek and the other to win a chance to compete for a title at Stranglemania? We’re about to find out in a few short minutes.

Each looks to one another for just a moment before Erick Steel and Mike Corral react and jump on Derek. The Airborne Ranger tries to fight them back but the combined effort from both younger man are too much for Derek to fight off by himself. Eric puts Derek on the ropes while Mike hits Derek with the RONALDO!!, RONALDO DOS!!, following up with the RONALDO TRES!! Which sends the Airborne Ranger over the top rope and onto the floor; Mike Corral and Eric Steel look to one another as they gloat over Derek. The two lock up and Eric Steel gets the advantage by driving a knee into Mike’s gut and sets up for a Belly to Belly Suplex. However Derek Wellings has recovered and grabs both men’s legs and pulls them out of the ring.

They land hard on the hard floor and Derek follows their landing with a heel to Eric Steel’s face and elbow on Mike Corral’s face. Corral rolls away leaving Derek with Steel. He grabs his opponent then lifts him over head in a Military Press. The fans begin cheering on Derek as he presses The Lone Soldier’s body weight over his head then throws him at Jeremy Piven and Joe Aiello. With his opponent down, Derek roars at him trying to intimidate Eric but Mike Corral has recovered and attacks Derek from behind with a trash can lid.

Jeremy Piven: Right when Derek thinks this match is going to be easy, Mike Corral reminds him why there’s only one Strong Style Element.

Joe Aiello: We should be careful; I think they’re going to bring this match to us. It’s going to be all out war very soon.

Mike lifts Derek up and toss towards Joe and Jeremy and the two back away allowing Eric time to recover and help put Derek on their table. The two clear off the table and Eric helps up Derek first and with Mike Corral’s help, the two manage to Spike Piledrive Derek through the announce table. The fans boo loudly as they gloat over Derek’s defeated body. However Mike hits an Exploder Suplex on Eric, putting his back against the barricade. He yells loudly and lays next to Derek. Mike grabs a ladder from outside the ring and pushes it into the ring.

As Mike enters the ring, Eric Steel recovers fast enough to slide into the ring after his opponent. Mr. 300% sets the ladder up and turns around to get a Dropkick to his face and the ladder get knocked over and onto him. Rolling his opponent off the ladder, Eric opens one leg and puts it on his opponent’s arm and slams it down hard. Mike yells loudly holding his arm but Eric doesn’t let up and smashes it a second time. Then a third time and finally allows Mike to roll away to the ring edge.

Joe Aiello: We are seeing some serious viciousness from Eric Steel tonight. Derek Wellings and Mike Corral are going to luckily if they escape without any major injuries.

Jeremy Piven: They’ll be luckily if they can walk… well in Mike Corral’s case. Derek will be lucky if he doesn’t have a heart attack by the end of tonight’s show. This old man needs to get ready and just pack it in.

Derek Wellings begins to recover and looks to see Eric Steel setting up the ladder. He barely makes it to the ring in and Eric attempts a baseball slide but Derek grabs his leg, pulls him out of the ring which causes Eric to land on his feet but the Airborne Ranger counters with a vicious Clothesline. Eric manages to land on his feet and stands up but is met with a Big Boot to his face. Mike goes up high on an opposing turnbuckle and hits a Front Missile Drop Kick on Derek, knocking down the Airborne Ranger. He grabs Derek and throws him in the ring head first causing him to hit the ladder. Mr. 300% then forces Eric Steel into the ring.

Mike takes a moment to set up a second ladder leaning out of the ring from a turnbuckle. However Eric Steel throws a low blow, taking down the Strong Style Element. This gives each man a breather to get some strength back and the first one up is Eric Steel. He throws Mike into a corner opposite of the ladder and places his opponent on top. The Airborne Ranger is on his hands and knees while Eric Steel starts to climb the turnbuckle. Fearing for what can come next, Mike fights off Eric as best as he can. But the Lone Soldier tries for a Top Rope German Suplex and is blocked by Derek Wellings.

He throws several punches at his opponent’s backs. Seeing the ladder set up, Derek gets an idea and tries to hook up both Eric and Mike on his hands, and he signals for Army Strong[/b] causing the fans to go berserk seeing the ladder. With a loud groan, Derek manages to lift both men onto his back and as he starts to run, Mike Corral slips off and grabs a breather on the ropes while Derek hits the Army Strong on the second ladder! The fans go crazy and chant “AIR-BORNE RAN-GER!” CLAP CLAP CLAP CLAP! In tremendous pain, Eric rolls out of the ring and lays at ring side with Derek throwing the broken ladder at him.[/i]

Joe Aiello: There’s strong and then there’s Army Strong! We haven’t seen many broken ladders in EWC and this the first one that I can recall someone got put through one by Derek Wellings.

Jeremy Piven: That idiot is usually the one getting the punishment himself! Would you call this irony as a few short weeks ago, Eric broke a telephone on Derek’s face and this time Derek broke a ladder using Eric’s spine?

Joe Aiello: I think this would be “bitter irony” and these fans are going crazy! You can hear them in excitement as they go nuts.

Derek Wellings takes a moment too long to celebrate, turns around and gets a knee from Mike Corral, to his face causing Derek to go into a corner. Then Mike finishes with the Welcome to Gaslamp. Taking a moment, Mike heads out the ring, finds two tables and sets them both up outside. Playing with Derek a little bit longer, Mr. 300% kicks the Airborne Ranger around and grabs a piece of the broken ladder.

Derek slowly gets up and turns around to get the piece smashed into his head and blood starts to drip on the canvas. A few fans shriek while several guys cheer on Mike Corral and even chat for him. Sensing the end is near for Derek, Mike sets up a second ladder under the briefcase and starts to climb up. The Airborne Ranger panics and starts to climb up the opposite side.

Joe Aiello: This isn’t looking good. Someone is about to take a long fall and be broken into several pieces.

Jeremy Piven: I don’t hope for permanent injury on anyone but hope that if Derek does get hurt in this fall, he’s smart enough to say “I had a good run in EWC” and retires. We need some young blood to keep the card at Stranglemania looking great.

Derek gets to the top and punches Mike. Corral blocks it and punches him back. The two trade blows as blood drips down Derek’s face. As Derek goes for a Chokeslam, Mike counters with a high knee to Derek’s temple. Mike attempts a Hand of God but the Airborne Ranger sees it coming and blocks it and counters with a Headbutt. With Mike Corral leaning away stunned, Derek tries a second time with a Chokeslam. Mike doesn’t resist it as Derek lifts him up and tosses the 90 lbs smaller Mike Corral through the two tables he set up outside the ring below them. Mike smashes through them as the people start chanting “THIS IS AWESOME!” and clapping between their chants. With no one left around, Derek reaches up for the briefcase as blood drips down his face and grabs the briefcase. The referee calls for the bell

Jessica Stroup: Here is your winner, “The Airborne Ranger” DEREK WELLINGS

Jeremy Piven: YES! I knew we’d see something great tonight. Now we’ve seen two things in one match that were great! Someone being put through a ladder and two more tables get destroyed!

Joe Aiello: Three Weeks in a row, Derek Wellings has been busted open pretty badly. How much more can this man take? The only one who knows that is Derek Wellings himself and maybe his doctor. Either way, what’s he doing?

The EMTs check and make sure both Eric Steel and Mike Corral are all right. Derek grabs a few bottles of water and spill it on them causing the two to get up painfull and with the help of the EMT’s, they look at Derek as he gives the briefcase to the referee to find out what his reward is at Stranglemania. As the ref enters the code and opens up the Briefcase. In it is a paper to which he hands directly at Derek. 

Derek looks at it. Starring. Blankly. Absolutely no expression. He then smiles and looks up at the ref and mouths WOW. Derek is clearly surprised but happy

The camera zooms in on the paper

HARD CORE TITLE SHOT AT StrangleMania X

Aiello: Oh my .. That IS a surprise. Wow. What an amazing privilege for Wellings

Piven: This is huge. A huge moment for Wellings

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LADDER MATCH 4

FLOYD SHOOTER 
Vs 
KURT NEWMAN 
Vs
TROY DEVEREAUX 
Vs
ASH SCION 
Vs
MARK STORM

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Ailleo: Ladies and gentlemen, for tonight's competitors in the Main Event, a chance to prove they're the cream of EWC's crop LITERALLY hangs in the balance above the ring!

Piven: Ladder matches are truly doubled-edged swords, JoJo. On one hand, they're quintessential fan favorites, and winners often go on to win titles and establish legacies. On the other hand, they can put a wrestler on the shelf in a heartbeat.

With this amount of talent in the ring at one time, it'll be interesting....

Before Joe Aiello can finish his observation, Kurt Newman suddenly comes tumbling down the entrance ramp. As he tries to get up, Troy Devereaux comes rushing towards him, and he catches Newman with a dropkick in his right knee, crumbling him onto the concrete.

Aiello: These two have gotten started early, Jeremy!  Good God, is Devereaux trying to cripple Kurt Newman!?

Piven: Well, looks like Jessica's night gets to be a little easier, because nobody's waiting for this thing to be announced!

While Troy Devereaux continues to stomp on Kurt Newman's leg on the ramp, it becomes evident that this match got started backstage, and that the rest of the competitors are already involved in a brawl that suddenly spills out past the curtain. Floyd Shooter is trying to fight off both Ash Scion and Mark Storm at the same time, but to a losing effort. Scion gets behind him and hits a brutal elbow strike to the back of the skull before Storm gets a running start and sends a bog boot right into Shooter's face. Back to Troy Devereaux, who, after throwing Newman into the ring, yanks a camera right out of the hands of a crew member. He starts filming a staggering Kurt Newman, taunting him while filming...

Devereaux: Hey, Squirt Spewman, to quote the great Freddy Krueger: WELCOME TO PRIME TIME, BITCH!

WHAM!!

Troy swings the camera, busting Newman's forehead open with that shot!

Piven: You see that, Aiello? It's because of shit like that makes asking for a raise such a pain in the ass!

Aiello: Troy Devereaux looks like he just neutralized Kurt Newman right of the bat, and if Floyd Shooter isn't careful, he could be bleeding on the ground with him!

Scion & Storm continue to alternate laying into Storm with stiff strikes and kicks.  Suddenly,  Mark Storm screams: 

"Stop bugging me, Rick!   I'm trying to kick this chick's ass right now! We'll get a Blizzard from Dairy Queen later!"

...before he maneuvers behind Scion and lands a vicious Tiger Suplex onto the concrete!

Aiello: Technically savvy AND utter devastating! She might have a back injury after that!

Piven: I've seen Ash Scion take some incredible beatings in her career and keep coming forward, Danny.  I doubt that's going to be enough.  Amazingly, only two participants have even made it into the ring so far, and now that Scion and Storm have turned their attention on each other,  it looks like Troy Devereaux is going to take advantage of an early opportunity to go for a ladder!

He is. With Kurt Newman seemingly out of it, Troy Devereaux arrogantly takes his time, sliding out of the ring to taunt the ringside crowd before pulling a ladder out from under the ring, placing it on the apron and beginning to slide it into the ring. But his showboating ends up costing him. Kurt recovers, gets a running start....

AND COMES CRASHING DOWN ON DEVEREAUX WITH A SPRINGBOARD CORKSCREW DROPKICK THAT SEND THE LADDER SMASHING INTO TROY'S MOUTH!

Audience: HOLY SHIT! HOLY SHIT! HOLY SHIT!

Aiello: He might have broken all of the Paparazzi Prince's pearly whites with that insane desperation move!

Piven: Definitely not a high flying maneuver approved by the American Dental Association! He'll be lucky if he can eat solid food after that! 

Back to Mark Storm at ringside, who's trying to get his own ladder into the ring, but Ash Scion has recovered and she chop-blocks him in the back of the leg! She starts wailing on him with punches & kicks. Storm manages to catch a front kick that she throws, but The Bloodbath reacts quickly, nearly taking  his head off with an Enziguri! Now she has the ladder....

*CRACK* 

The Sheriff summons his inner Jim Duggan and breaks a 2x4 he scrounges from ringside upside her back, then cradles her leg, continuing to to deliver punishment to her back via a Fisherman's Suplex onto the ladder!  That was pure instinct however, and as Shooter  continues to try to shake the cobwebs off, he notices Mark Storm getting up, wobbly & incoherent. Floyd smiles, grabs a beer from a fan ringside, takes a swig, then spits it right into Storm's eyes. He swoops behind him, setting him up for a Side Russian Leg sweep, but flips the script, and reverses the move, sending Storm face first into the ladder rungs! 

Aiello: This is brutal, folks. At this rate, our competitors are going to need a plastic surgeon by the time it's over!

Piven: They can call my doc; I get a discount for every referral I bring in!

Shooter has the advantage on Storm, but EWC's law-bringer suddenly finds himself caught by surprise by the Big Bad Voodoo Daddy. While trying to set up the ladder, Kurt stuns him for a moment with a European Uppercut. Newman gets a running start, bounces off the ropes, and connects with a picture perfect Crucifix Driver that sends Floyd rolling out of the ring. Mr. Awesome indeed gets an awesome reception. He starts revving up the audience, then, seeing Ash Scion outside the ring, gets a running start to catch her with a over the rope move, but as his back hits the ropes, Troy Devereaux throws a ladder at him that catches the back of his head. He quickly leaps at the opportunity, climbing the top rope. He leaps off the top turnbuckle, lands as if he's seemingly going to Hurricarana him...but instead, gracefully improvise, and lands a stunning Tornado DDT which sends Newman's head-first into the ladder with a sickening metallic clang!

Aiello: Say what you will about The Paparazzi Prince, but, that maneuver was just unreal!

Piven: This match is becoming one giant highlight reel! Sick move after sick move after sick move! These wrestlers tonight are in Kamikaze mode, and the fans're eating this shit up!

Even the rabid Pittsburgh crowd, who was booing him out of the arena, are now giving him a rousing "Holy Shit!" chant. Troy Devereaux sets up the ladder, confident that no one's left to stop him from reaching the prize.  He starts up it, failing to notice that Ash Scion has made he way onto the apron.  In a single fluid motion, she leaps into the air, landing with both feet on the center of the top ring-rope, vaulting herself into the ring and onto the ladder directly opposite Deavreaux. Troy is stunned to suddenly find himself face-to-face with The Bloodbath, who greats him with a stiff elbow shot to the bridge of the nose, knocking him off the ladder and down to the canvas.  She look up, but realized that her leap of faith has knocked the ladder out of position and that she wouldn't be able to reach the case from here, so instead she climbs to the very top, looks down at Troy Devereaux, flat on his back in the ring. She instead takes a moment to catch her breath, spread eagles her arms, and comes of the top of the ladder with 'Lock Up Your Sons', her Corkscrew Shooting Star Press finisher!

Aiello: What impact! There is no way Troy Devereaux's ribs are not shattered by that move! 

Piven: I think everything is going to get broken in this match! Man, custodial is gonna have a bunch of shit to clean up after this.

Ash Scion is slow to get up, but she starts getting her own "Holy Shit" chants directed at her. Now there's two ladders set up in the ring, and Scion positions one perfectly and is slowly climbing her way to victory. But she doesn't see Mark Storm setting up a folding chair behind her. By the time she's near touching range of the case, Storm catches up to her. They trade some vicious punches atop the ladder, but eventually, Storm gets the upper hand. He climbs up so that he's one rung from the very top, and just when you the audience thinks they've seen it all, Mark amazingly performs a Sunset Flip from the top of the ladder....

AND TURNS BOTH THE BLOODBATH AND THE CHAIR INTO A TANGLED MESS BY ENDING THE FLIP WITH A POWERBOMB THROUGH THE CHAIR!

Aiello: Are these maniacs trying to kill each other? This is out of control!

Piven: I love it! Other wrestling companies want to talk hardcore, talk extreme; they just don't do it like this! We ARE extreme, dammit!

The Split Personality and his imaginary therapist get serenaded with an all-too familiar chant. He scans his surroundings....

Ash Scion is a tangled mess of red hair and steel, and it's hard to tell where she starts and the mangled steel chair ends.  Kurt Newman's face is a crimson mask and he's so out of it, either he's trying to hit on a girl ringside, or explain string theory to her in a concussed haze. Troy Devereaux's struggling to get up, and as he does he begins coughing up blood. 

Amidst all of this carnage, Mark Storm sees his chance, and he starts climbing up the ladder. But, just as he's touching the case, here comes Floyd Shooter at full speed, bulldozing the ladder and knocking Storm off of it and into the ringpost! Skull Face literally bounces off the steel post and lands in the middle of the ring. The ladder falls over, and it looks like Shooter might have hurt himself on that impact. Devereaux, back to his feet and smelling blood, catches him unawares with a superkick. Knocking him down. Mr. Spotlight looks to take the show.  He begins to climb the top of the turn buckle... but Kurt Newman repays the favor earlier by fastballing a fire extinguisher into Devereaux's back from ringside, sending him groin first down on the ringpost. 

He squeals in agony, and who wouldn't at that point? 

Newman crawls back into the ring as both Storm & Scion are getting to their feet, but not before throwing a table into the ring. The Sherriff gets his bearings back climbs the turnbuckle, pounding on Troy's head with punches. Then he looks at the table below, and smiles.

Piven: Uh, JoJo, what the hell is that crazy gator poacher thinking now?

Aiello: Whatever it is, it's not good. But if it's anything along the lines of tonight's match...*shivers*

Floyd set up the table. He climbs back up the ringpost, punches Troy a few more times, then sets him up...

Aiello: Oh no! He's not really....

But he does!

Aiello: THE SIX SHOOTER FROM THE TOP ROPE, RIGHT INTO THE TABLE!

Piven: Au Revoir, Devereaux! What's French for "massive head trauma?"

Both Troy and Shooter are sprawled out! Storm & Newman are going at it in the corner!   Scion looks over at Storm & Newman going at it, then down at Devereaux & Shooter, laid out on the canvas.  She drags Deaveroux over to the corner opposite where Storm & Newman are fighting, and props him up in a seated position in it.  She then grabs a steel chair and makes her way over to and up the parallel turnbuckle.  She looks out at the crowd, who get to their feet in anticipation... and with steel chair in hand the leaps from post-to-post, appearing to hang in mid-aid amidst the strobe of 1000 camera flashes, before driving the chair with both feet into the prone Deveraux!

Piven: STEEL CHAIR COAST TO COAST!  I think that Scion did almost as much damage to herself with that leap as she did to Troy... but what a moment!

Devereaux and Scion are laid out.  Meanwhile, Newman has laid out Storm to the point that Storm rolled out of the ring to catch his breath.  Newman sees the nearest ladder, hanging half in and half out of the ring.  He bends over, grabbing the top of the ladder to drag it in and set it up, but in that very moment, Shooter comes running along the apron, and he leaps off towards the crowd... landing ass first, like a cowboy leaping into the saddle, on the bottom end of the ladder!  The steel ladder see-saws, with the top of the ladder cracking Newman in the chin so hard that he flies backwards and lands next to a slowly stirring Scion!

Scion gets to her feet, and sees Newman obviously hurt and bleeding from the chin.  She stands him up, and backs him into the corner, where she devivers a couple of stiff clinched elbow strikes to his already split chin... just for good measure.  It looks for a second like she might Irish Whip him into the opposite corner, but instead she leaves Newman slumped against the turnbuckles, then she takes one of the ladders and leans it up against his chest.  Scion crosses the ring to the opposite turnbuckle, and she builds up a full head of steam before charging towards the ladder & Newman behind it... but as she reached the mid-point of the ring, Kurt comes to his senses and throws the ladder forward, directly into the charging Scion with a sickening CRACK!  Both the ladder and The Bloodbath drop to the canvas in a heap.

Aiello: OUCH! That had to hurt

Piven: I can feel it in my balls bro.. I can feel it in my BALLS

Meanwhile, Shooter is back in the ring and sets up a ladder in the center of it, across the prone body of Ash Scion.  He starts slowly making his way up to grab the case, but amazingly Devereaux is back up and he begins climbing up the opposite side of the ladder.  Both men make their way up, and when they meet they explode into a flurry of shots, both raining down punches on the other.  Suddenly, Devereaux manages to hook Shooter's head and grab a hold of his waistband, and before anyone can believe what's happening, Troy brings Floyd up in a picture perfect vertical suplex, atop the ladder in the center of the ring.  The moment hangs frozen... and a look crosses Troy's face where he realizes that he didn't really think this through... and both men go crashing backwards into one corner of the ring, both landing in a heap atop Kurt Newman.

Piven: PILE ON!

Aiello: This match is proving to be worth all it was billed & hyped up to be

With Shooter, Deveraux and Newman all a tangled mess in one corner, and Scion still floored under the ring, Storm, who has recovered, enters the ring and climbs the ladder.  It looks like he's got the match in the bag as there seems to be no one around to oppose him, but as he nears the top, Scion gets to her feet inside the arch of the ladder, and seeing this, she grabs his ankles, keeping him from climbing any further.  Shooter stirs, and seeing the bizarre stand-off, throws himself into the ropes and comes off on the rebound in a blind charge that sends him crashing into the ladder, Ash Scion, and which sends Storm careening off of the toppling ladder, over the top rope, and crashing down to the floor.

A sick silence falls over the entire scene, as for the first time in the match, not a single participant is moving at all.

Aiello: Three ladders in the ring! A ton of collateral damage, and five very tired and wounded warriors...what else could possibly happen tonight?

Piven: This might have to end right here and right now.. I don't think anyone has anything left to give

Storm rolls to his knees and is breathing heavily on the floor. He shakes his head and spits blood out onto the floor while looking up at the mess inside the ring. Mark Storm gets to one knee and shakily manages to get to his feet. 

Troy, Kurt, Ash and Floyd are all lying on their backs as Storm slides himself back into the ring. Very slowly and gingerly, Storm picks up one of the three ladders and begins to try and setup the ladder. Floyd and Kurt team up together to setup a ladder of their own

Aiello: Two ladders are now setup in the ring right now.. no one is climbing yet

Piven: I think it took all they had left just to lift and setup those ladders

Ash is now on her feet and she stumbles her way over against the ropes. She sees that two ladders are setup but no one is climbing them. She sees the third ladder only 2 feet away from her

Aiello: Ash is going for the third ladder

Piven: We could have a hundred ladders in their.. at some point someone needs to start climbing them

Ash finishes setting up the third ladder and is on the first step breathing incredibly heavy. She tries to go up the next rung but she cant. The fans are chanting for someone, anyone, to climb the ladders

Aiello: This is unbelievable. These five are done. They have nothing left right now

Storm has now made it half way up his ladder, while Shooter and Newman have each taken a side to the ladder they setup together. Ash now finds the strength to also start climbing her ladder. Troy is right behind Ash on the same ladder

Aiello: All five are illiterately just a step or two from getting a hold of that Briefcase 

Piven: Storm is on the top ... MARK STORM IS ABOUT TO WIN THIS WHOLE DAMN THING RIGHT NOW

Mark Storm is trying to keep his balance on the top of the ladder, he reaches above his head to grab the Briefcase but Newman grabs a hold of him. Floyd on the other side of the ladder also grabs hold of Mark preventing him from grabbing the Briefcase

Suddenly Ash Scion leaps off of her ladder and lands on Newmans back. She reaches up and grabs hold of the Briefcase

Piven: HOLY CRAP - SHE DID IT - ASH DID IT

Ash is pulling and yanking on the Briefcase but can't pull it loose. Newman lifts Ash off of him and the ladder starts to wobble. One of the three ladders gives out while the other two start to shake. 

Aiello: That cord is about to snap .. just a little more

Tory copies the move that Ash did and climbs on-top of Floyd and Mark Storm who were trading punches on the ladder. Troy readies himself and then leaps off of the backs of Floyd and Mark Storm and he grabs hold of Ash

SNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAP

The Briefcase comes lose and all 5 come tumbling down to the ring. The ladders land ontop of them. 

Aiello: OH MY GOD

Piven: WHAT DID I JUST SEE

No one in the ring is moving.. it's ladders ontop of bodies

DING DING DING

Aiello: The bell has sounded and now referees and medics are running down to the ring

Piven: Who has the briefcase?

Aiello: It's near impossible to tell right now

The medics and refs are now in the ring and the carefully remove the ladders from the wreckage

The first Wrestler to be turned over is Troy

Aiello: No briefcase

Troy is taken out of the ring on a stretcher

The second wrestler to be turned over is Kurt Newman

Piven: Still no briefcase

Kurt is also placed on a stretcher and carried down the ramp

Floyd is the next to be turned over and he also does not have the Briefcase

Piven: It's either Storm or Ash

The medics then reach for Mark Storm and turn him over

Piven: BRIEFCASE!!!!

Aiello: OH MY GOD HE DID IT!!!!

Mark is holding the Briefcase tightly to his chest while being pulled off of Ash 

Both Mark and Ash are placed onto stretchers and are being carried up the ramp

Aiello: Wait, are we not going to find out what was in the Briefcase?

Just then one of the referees comes running down next to Mark Storm and he enters the code. The Briefcase opens up to reveal...

"A SHOT AT THE EWC WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP AT STRANGLE MANIA X"

Aiello: There you have to folks! Mark Storm has just won himself a date with the EWC World Championship at StrangleMania X

Piven: Wow, I thought for sure this was going to be Third Entrant for the EWC Championship.. what a pleasent surprise. Of course.. we won't know the full card until tomorrow

Aiello: Folks, we will be back after this commercial break

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BACKSTAGE

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The show returns as we see President Mac. A look of concern is spread across as he walks down a hallway and into an adjacent office. The office is dimly lit as he finds a looks forward, his body posture full of concern and frustration. Seated behind a desk before him is Xplode. Xplode looks back at him with minimal interest before speaking:

Xplode: Most people knock before entering an office.

President Mac: Most people.. aren’t the President of the company, Jaden. I need a moment of your time.

Xplode: Sure thing.. you are paying for it after all.

President Mac finds a seat across from Xplode now. He looks frustrated. Unbuttoning his suit jacket, Mac gets more comfortable and speaks once more:

President: Jaden, I think we may have steered off course slightly over the last few weeks. I mean, everywhere I turn, I hear rumors about how we are at odds and feuding backstage. Now, I know rumors are rumors, but I can’t help but wonder.. are we good?

Xplode looks up at Mac, a sneer upon his face.

Xplode: You believe rumors now?

President Mac: It’s not just that, Jaden. The shows, they are far out of control. The networks are breathing down my neck due to all of the craziness out there, man! Referees are being attacked, injuries are piling up.. and someone was just almost hit by a damn car in the parking lot!! We have talent appearing on our opening segments without paying their dues! The show can’t possibly survive like this! We won’t have any damn competitors left in the locker room in 6 months!

Xplode shuffles some papers on his desk and then places them aside. He then glares at Mac and clasps his hands together.

Xplode: Look, you brought me in here to increase the ratings and make the EWC brand the number one promotion once more.. didn’t you?

President Mac: Yes.. but not at the cost of our locker room integrity. The fans expect more-

Xplode: THE FANS?!! DON’T SIT THERE AND TELL ME WHAT THE FANS WANT! The ratings have NEVER been higher like they have since I took over as General Manager! Arenas are selling out, merchandise sales are through the roof… and Stranglemania X tickets are already on back order as we speak!!! I have been doing my job EXACTLY as I promised.. so don’t come in here lecturing me about what is good for this company!

President Mac takes another deep breath and chooses to reach out to his friend once more.

President Mac: What happened to us, man? We have always been close. The two of us running a company is a can’t miss situation. The thing is, we aren’t on the same page anymore. You are running this show without checking with me on your decisions. We aren’t a team! I respect you, man. Let’s put aside all of the frustrations and bad choices and realize our potential. Let’s reach the top.. together.

Xplode smiles.

Xplode: I haven’t made any bad choices.. and you have yet to see my full potential yet. Just go back to kissing babies, talking on twitter, and schmoozing with magazines. I have a show to run.. my way.

President Mac stands up now.

President Mac: Do I have to remind you as to who this show belongs to? There is no “your” way. I didn’t want to go there but from this day forward, we will get back to the normal EWC type programming. No more putting the locker room at risk.. and more more pushing the envelope. Understood?

Xplode stands up slowly, his eyes never leaving President Mac. He walks around the desk and stands face to face with the EWC President.

Xplode: You know.. for as long as I can remember, you have stopped me from reaching that.. potential. First it was when I competed in that ring. I crushed your roster and blazed to the World Title match.. remember that? That title belt was mine, damn it. How did you screw me? You shut down the company and robbed me of my place in the history books. Now, you are trying to do it again..

President Mac: Jaden.. come on.

Xplode: NO! Once more, you are trying to put the breaks on my momentum as I hit my stride in the EWC. Not this time though.. no. I have a binding contract, and as long as I am running the show, we will continue as we have until either the world recognizes us as the best promotion in the world.. or the locker room is full of broken competitors.

President Mac: I don’t think so. This isn’t over. I wish it didn’t have to be this way, Jaden.

Xplode steps away and walks back to his desk.

Xplode: It’s always been this way… don’t fool yourself. Now don’t let the door hit you on the ass as you leave.

Mac stares at Xplode for a time, and then exits the locker room. Once in the hallway, he removes his cellphone from his pocket and dials a number.

President Mac: I just met with Xplode.. and I want every lawyer on our board to meet me at my house tonight. There is a cancer in the company that is about to spread... and it's about time that I found a cure.

© THE EXTREME WRESTLING CORPORATION 2015