MNB #554 - LAS VEGAS

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MNB #554 - LAS VEGAS Apr 28, 2020 3:13:14 GMT -6 President Mac, Ruthless Aggression, and 3 more like this

Post by MNB on Apr 28, 2020 3:13:14 GMT -6

WARNING:

This live event contains strong coarse language (L), and intense violence (V) which may be unsuitable for younger viewers. None of the matches you are about to watch have been predetermined. Only some of the thematic story-lines have been discussed beforehand. Accordingly, EWC and it's producers must insist that no one attempt to recreate or re-enact any match or activity performed in this live event.

The Extreme Wrestling Corporation presents
MONDAY NIGHT BRAWL
EPISODE #554 | APRIL 27TH 2020

LIVE! from the T-Mobile Arena in Paradise, Nevada

EWC BRAWL
General Manager: Jim Connors
Commentators: Joe Aiello, Steve 'The Predator' Bennett and Max Carter
Announcer: Jessica Stroup
Senior Referee: Paul Turner
Referee: Josh Daniels
Backstage Interviewer: Bob Murray

"BZRK" by Family Force 5 blasts in the Arena

The show starts off with video footage detailing historic events over Monday Night BRAWL's history.
From episode 001 in 1997 all the way down to the last episode #553 in Greensboro.

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, The Rev, Ruthann Hunter, Ashton Drake and then Xplode all with the EWC Championship.

Sped up footage again then takes us through to current Monday Night BRAWL Superstars: Xavier Reid, Darius, Kendrick Kross, Stephanie Matsuda, NSFW, Darius, Clay Byrd, Stormy Taggert, Bosa, and more.

We then get a shot of the the sole Champion of BRAWL:

Clay Byrd with the International Championship

The opening pyros blast across the stage and here we go.

We take a look around inside of the T-Mobile Arena and see the electricity!

A chant begins of

"MNB!"

"MNB!"

A thick layer of fog circles the arena, and camera flashes repeatedly strobe the area!

The camera feed pans to different areas in the arena and we see fans cheering in excitement!

The fans are shown smiling, laughing, and pumping their fists in excitement

as fireworks emit from each corner of the ring!

A thick layer of fog surrounds the fans from the firework display.

The show is live... and the excitement is at a fever pitch!

Signs can be seen all over the arena, some reading:

"WE'RE GOING BYRD HUNTING TONIGHT"

"NSFW = NEVER SETTLE FOR WEAKNESS"

"CHUCK GACY FEARS NO ONE"

"THE WAR OF ROYALTY AWAITS"

"WE ARE THEY"

and "THE TAG TEAM TOURNEY APPROACHETH, PLAYA"

The camera pans around the T-Mobile Arena once more. We arrive at the announcers' table where Joe Aiello, Max Carter, and Steve Bennett are standing by.

Aiello: Hello folks, and welcome to Monday Night BRAWL! I'm Joe Aiello, alongside my compatriots Max Carter and Steven Bennett, and we are on the final stop to a major accolade. Before we head to Toronto for a tag title tournament, we're stopping in Paradise to give you a packed night of action!

Carter: That's right Joe, eight matches on the show tonight, starting with David Scott taking on La Belicista herself, Isabella! After that, triple threat action between Justin Paird, Callie Clark, and Rampage's Milenko, followed by a big collision between Mag Hyperion and Bosa!

Bennett: Well hell, tonight's gonna get nice and violent as we move on isn't it? We've also got 3 The Hard Way returning with X-Division triple threat action between Samantha Hamilton, Chuck Gacy, and Alexander Cage! To make things even more interesting, we've got a match that's been brewing since we stopped in Greensboro, as Darius takes on Gabrielle Visconty inside a steel cage!

Aiello: Rounding out the in-ring action tonight is a slight preview of Brawl 555 as The Journeymen take on NSFW, a big clash between heavy hitters in Xavier Reid and Clay Byrd, and in our main event the X-Division Championship is on the line as Stephanie Matsuda cashes in her rematch for the title! It's a battle of royalty as the War Queen takes on Ace King, will the Gambler be able to walk out of Paradise with the title or will Matsuda force him to fold? Before we kick things off, we're going to take a look at GAMBIT earlier today, as we saw the debuting TANK take on the returning Stormy Taggert!

DING DING DING

The bell rings and Tank immediately goes after Taggert, eager to prove himself to the crowd in attendance as he unleashes a surprising flurry of offense on the Unholy Bride before sending her to the corner. Tank charges looking for an avalanche splash, but Stormy gets out of the way in the nick of time as Tank collides with the turnbuckle. Stormy goes to work, trying to chop the big man down, but Tank reverses a neckbreaker before sending her over with a big back body drop! The crowd is cheering Tank on, giving him the drive he needs as he heads to the ropes, looking for a moonsault...BUT STORMY ROLLS OUT OF THE WAY!

With the big man down, Stormy looks to take advantage as she stomps away at Tank. She picks him up by the head, slowly bringing him to his knees before she takes a swing with a roundhouse kick...but Tank ducks, leaving Stormy with nothing but air! Tank's back to his feet as he sends Stormy against the ropes...HITTING THE POUNCE ON HER ON THE REBOUND! Stormy is down but not quite out, as she slowly gets to her feet. Tank lifts her up onto his shoulders, hitting a fireman's carry powerslam! SUPER NOVA! That's gotta be it as Tank makes the cover, getting the pinfall for victory in his EWC debut!

DING DING DING

Stroup: Here is your winner, via pinfall...TANK!

The ref raises Tank's arm in victory as we fade to the EWCTV advertisement.

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Cameras fade to a shot of the backstage production area; the scene framing the beaming smile of Bob Murray.

Murray: Ladies and Gentlemen, as you’ve already heard, Brawl is coming to you live from the City of Sin, itself, right here in Las Vegas, Nevada! The house is packed, and the air is charged with more than just the neon lights, because the card we’ve got for you tonight is just one jackpot after another. Starting with our opener, which includes this man right here, “Die Hard” David Scott, going toe to toe with one of the hottest new signees on Brawl, “La Belicista” Isabella.

Scott steps into the frame already wearing his gear and a stoic expression.

Scott: Appreciate the time.

Murray: Hey, you asked for it. Being serious though, you and Isabella seem to be pretty hyped for this match. Was there some kind of backstage tension or something we don’t know about? The two of you, apparently anyway, only met back at StrangleMania. Soon as the card for this show went public though, immediately the two of you are right out in front just dropping bombs on each other, no pun intended. Any particular reason you two are so invested in this one?

Scott: Outside of respect, not really. I called her out as one to watch leading into that battle royal, and I stand by everything I said about her, then and now. She’s a fighter. She’ll push through anything and everything she has to, to get what she feels she deserves. You have to admire that. I’ve been saying the same thing ever since my last time here, I’m always looking for a good fight. I’m always looking for someone that can push me to my limit, not just in terms of wrestling, but stamina, pain, will, all of it. I want to be challenged. Locke and Hyperion weren’t a challenge, outside of making sure I didn’t get stepped on. Isabella’s the exact opposite. She’s more than a challenge. She’s an actual threat. She’s a dangerous, highly skilled opponent that’ll end me in three seconds flat if I give her the chance.

Murray: That’s some strong praise coming from you. You’re not usually the type to play nice with others, from what I’ve heard. What’s so different about someone like Isabella than everyone else you’ve faced in EWC? Why does she get the softer side of David Scott?

The use of the ‘S’-word earned Murray a slow turn of Scott’s head, and an unyielding stare to match. Maybe due to his long years of dealing with agents and producers, however, Murray did not budge. Not even a blink. He simply held up the microphone and stared right back. Eventually, Scott ha to give the man a smirk of respect. If a little one.

Scott: She deserved it. No-one else I’ve shared that ring with has. Some have come close, others thought they had, but it wasn’t their call to make. I’ve spent a total of twenty minutes in a ring with “La Belicista”, but that, and what I’ve heard from her this last month in regard to means and motive, told me everything I needed to know about her. I like her.

Nodding his head, Murray decided to shift the topic a little.

Murray: So, obviously the next episode of Brawl is the exclusive tag special. You opted out of competing on that card, and instead, intend to a pay a little visit to our friends over on Rampage. Got yourself a match with Ace King in the process. How’re you handling having that in the back of your mind going into a match like this? You said it yourself, one wrong move and Isabella could do some real damage. Kind of sets the plate for King, don’t you think?

Scott simply shrugged.

Scott: That’s the business. This’s as close as I’ve ever come to working television, but you could probably relate. You get called; you go do. That’s your job. Doesn’t matter if you broke a finger, cracked something, lost half a bucket of blood the night before. You get up and you do your job. Anyone who steps through that curtain and climbs into that ring knew what they were getting into. They knew the risks. They knew the expectations. You’ve heard people say it a thousand times, this ain’t ballet. This ain’t the NBA or the NFL where you get a boo-boo on your tushy and they let you sit out the season with full pay. You want to get paid as a wrestler? You’d better wrestle. And you’d better learn how to do it when you’re hurt, because you’re going to be hurt ninety percent of the time. That’s just how it works.

Bringing his palms together, Scott rubbed them, slowly but firmly, as his thoughts came together.

Scott: King knows that better than anyone here. Seven hundred and seventy-seven days he held that title. You think he wasn’t aching from head to toe every time he stepped into that ring? Climbed that cage? Went through those tables? Son of a bitch must have been popping aleve like they were pez. Did it stop him? Did you ever see him refuse to show? Refuse a booking? No. Because he made the choice. He told himself he wanted to be the best in the business, and he’ll be damned if anything stops him. Including his own body. You can expect the same from me. Just look at the last eighteen years. Look at the injuries. Look at what I’ve fought through and come back from. There’s a reason the name “Die Hard” means something in wrestling. There’s a reason a middle-aged dinosaur like me is still held in the same regard as these younger guys. It’s because I earned it. Now will it be enough against a guy like King?

Scott’s face contorted in a look of uncertainty.

Scott: Who knows. We’ll find out in North Carolina. But I’ll throw everything I got at the bastard; I can promise you that much. And if he wants to pull up a front row seat for the match tonight, he’s more than welcome. He can scout me out, get a feel for how I work, and when we hook up out in Raleigh, we’ll bring the whole goddamn house down.

Bringing a hand to his ear, Murray turned to face the camera.

Murray: Sounds like someone who’s ready to me, but I’m getting word that “La Belicista” is on her way to the front, so David, I’ll let you go and do your thing. Good luck tonight and good luck against Ace King on the next Rampage.

Scott: Thanks.

Leaving it at that, Scott turns and walks out of frame, making his way to the gorilla position as the shot pulls back from Murray and fades back out to the ringside area.

A TEST OF METTLE!
[SINGLES MATCH]

David Scott
VS "La Belicista" Isabella

The scene returns to the ringside area as cameras pan over the shifting crowd before fading into a frontal shot of the announce team. Aiello and Carter focus on the lens while Bennett argues with someone over his shoulder. Joe reaches over to backhand "Predator" on his shoulder, prompting the gruff veteran to swing around and glare at him.

Bennett: Hey, watch it. You don’t need to be grabbing up on me like that, man.

Aiello: Welcome back to ringside, ladies and gentlemen, where you’re just in time to catch one hell of a match, as fiery newcomer ‘La Belicista’ Isabella goes toe to toe with David Scott. A match that seems to have been destined ever since these two met back in the Hot Shot Battle Royal.

Bennett: That’s what was so important? Well, hell, son, let me save you the suspense. Someone went and lit a fire under Scott’s ass, and he’s looking to make a statement. Unfortunately, he’s planning on stamping that son of a bitch on a certain little senorita’s backside.

Carter: Scott certainly seems to be building some momentum since his return, but you can’t discount the fact that Isabella is a trained soldier. A former Marine. Close quarters are her bread and butter. Something Scott, himself, even brought out in his video. I don’t know if either one of them has a distinct advantage coming into this.

Aiello: Only one way to find out. Let’s get to the action!

The shot cuts to Jessica Stroub in center ring. A few whistles cut through the cheers as he raises the microphone.

Stroup: The following contest is scheduled for one-fall with a fifteen-minute time limit. Introducing first, from Long Beach, California. Standing six feet tall and weighing in at two-hundred and thirty-five pounds... "DIE HARD" … DAVID … SCOTT!

A pair of discordant, alternating notes plays through the speakers, before the pounding of drums leads into “I Am Machine” by Three Days Grace. After a few seconds, David Scott steps out from behind the curtain, prompting a loud but mixed reaction from the crowd. Eyes focused on the ring, the man called “Die Hard” sets about wringing his wrists loose and cracking his knuckles while marching purposely to the ring. Hands reach over the rail here and there, but he ignores them, circling to the steps and climbing up to the apron before ducking through the ropes. He then moves straight to his corner and leans back against the buckles, using the top rope to stretch out his shoulders.

Stroup: And his opponent, from Tijuana, Mexico. Standing five-foot-eight and weighing in at one-hundred and sixty-four pounds. She is ‘LA BELICISTA’ … ISABELLA!

As Sabaton’s “Resist and Bite” blasts over the PA, a large plume of smoke conceals the top of the ramp. The Mexican flag appears on the MacTron as a shadow appears in the lingering smoke. Red pyros shoot off into the air as the smoke begins to vanish, eventually revealing “La Belicista” Isabella’s figure. As the 15 second mark rolls around, Isabella strides confidently down towards the ramp, giving high-fives to the fans and audience along the way. When “La Belicista” Isabella arrives in front of the ring, she slips in between the middle and uppermost set of ropes. She then stands atop the same ropes she slid through. She clenches her right fist and raises it high up in the air. Her left, meanwhile, raises as she salutes to the EWC audience. After soaking in the reaction and atmosphere, “La Belicista” jumps off the ropes, lands gracefully on her feet, and turns to face Scott, who continues to stand in his own corner.

Aiello: Both these two have admitted to chomping at the bit for this one, and it’s about to kick off – right … NOW!

DING DING DING

Both competitors push from their corners and move towards each other, slowly circling while sizing each other up. Scott eventually extends a hand, offering a shake. A few people at ringside try to talk Isabella out of it, but she takes the offer and they break clean, stepping back to continue the circle. Isabella drops low for the ankle, but Scott sidesteps and tries for a front facelock, only for Isabella to roll forward and come up to her feet, snapping an elbow back. Scott catches the arm and immediately tries to force her down to the mat for the Fell Clutch of Circumstance, but again Isabella evades, countering with a snapmare takeover and then a dropkick to the back of Scott’s head. Clutching the back of his skull, Scott rolls away and pushes up to his feet where he finds Isabella already waiting. Like a switch flipped, the mood changes and both of them charge, locking up in the center of the ring. Scott brings a clubbing forearm down across the back of her neck, then a second, lifting a knee to her gut to follow up. Standing her up, he tries for a chop, but Isabella blocks the arm and lands a forearm to the side of the head, then a low kick to the right knee. Scott staggers some, but answers with a stiff right hand, then another, backing Isabella into the ropes. Scott whips her across and looks for a knee lift, but Isabella grabs the leg and sweeps him to the mat, moving into the mount and raining down punches. Scott reaches up to catch at her fists, but Isabella snatches hold of his wrist and swings around into the Semper Fidelis armbreaker, already looking for the submission. Scott is forced to pull himself over to the ropes, and the referee orders Isabella to break the hold. She does and both of them stand.

Carter: Both these two looking to lock in those submission holds. Already painting targets on each other’s arms.

Aiello: Crossface versus Armbreaker. Either one could come out of nowhere and easily pick up the win.

Carter: Very easily. All it takes is one lapse in judgement, and that's it. Once either of those holds is locked in, it’s over.

Bennett: I hate all this submission shit. Never used one a day in my career and I did just fine. Least the suits that stuck my ass in the Hall of Fame thought so. Just drop the son of a bitch off the top rope and get the one, two, three!

Rubbing his chin, Scott eyes Isabella as he stands, then charges in with a feigned clothesline. Isabella ducks, but Scott brings a knee up into her face, then drives a back elbow into her jaw. As ‘La Belicista’ reels, Scott wraps his arms around her and slams her to the mat with a side belly to belly suplex. Pushing up, he drops a knee across her forehead, then lays the boots to her shoulder and bicep. Reaching down, Scott pulls Isabella up and tries to scoop her onto his shoulder, but she drops down behind and chop blocks the back of his knee. Scott cries out in pain as Isabella backs into the ropes and dives forward with a sliding big boot to the back of his head. Scott smashes into the mat and rolls over in a daze, but Isabella is already grabbing a leg. Scott struggles, but Isabella tucks the foot under her arm and drops back in a leg DDT, jarring Scott’s knee. “Die Hard” grits his teeth and tries to crawl back, but the soldier is zeroed in now. Back on her feet, Isabella cuts him off and drops a pointed elbow into his knee. As Scott sits up to grab at her, she catches him by the wrist and tries to bring her shin up into his throat for the FUBAR, but Scott simply lunges forward with a crushing headbutt. Isabella’s head snaps back with the impact and she lets go, allowing Scott to back into the ropes and use them to pull himself up, slightly limping on his right leg. Isabella rolls to her knees and checks for blood, but Scott does not give her the breather, landing a soccer-style kick straight to the ribs that flips her onto her back. He follows up with a leg drop across the face and quickly rolls back to his feet to add an elbow drop to the sternum. Scott pulls Isabella up and scoops her up onto his shoulder, only to drop her onto the top rope throat-first. As she gasps on the mat, he leans against the rope and pounds a fist on his knee, trying to numb the area. Irritation flashes across his face as he turns and stomps at Isabella’s shoulder again. Pulling her up to her feet, he hammerlocks an arm behind her back and pins it in place before delivering a belly to back suplex, dropping her full weight onto the trapped limb. Now it is Isabella who screams in pain, clutching her shoulder and rolling out to the apron for some separation. Moving to the ropes, Scott follows her out and pulls her up once again. Isabella tries for a back elbow, but Scott moves his head and responds with a vicious chop across her breasts.

Bennett: That son of a bitch just copped a feel! … my kind of guy!

Carter: And Scott with one of those lethal chops right across the chest of Isabella. I don’t care what kind of chest it is; those things are nothing short of pure pain personified!

Aiello: I can’t think of too many people right now who could take too many of those from Scott. We saw what it did to Mag Hyperion, and he had a lot more, well, padding in that particular area. Isabella’s tough as sun-dried leather, but she needs to avoid getting caught with any more of those.

The look on Isabella’ face says it all, as she holds a hand to her chest. Even with her darker tone, the redness from that single shot is evident. Scott immediately goes for a second, but Isabella turns her shoulder into it, catching Scott in the wrist and jarring his arm. Still short of breath, she brings a stiff knee up into his gut, then leaps over him with a sunset flip, planting both feet to the floor before power bombing Scott off the apron and down to the mats! The fans at ringside jump to their feet as Scott bounces off the thin padding. Slumping against the apron, Isabella presses a hand to her chest again, still feeling the effects as she turns and rolls back into the ring to catch her breath. Scott slowly rolls to his side, obviously dazed, as the referee begins his count. A few fans reach down to slap at his back and shoulders, but he groggily tries to slap them away, only to lose his balance and stumble as he tries to stand. In the ring, Isabella rolls to a knee, grimacing in pain, but watching Scott like a hawk as he moves to dive back in under the ropes. As soon as he does, she lands a basement dropkick to the side of his head. Teeth grit with determination, she pulls Scott to his feet and snaps him over with a release German suplex. Scott folds over himself, allowing Isaballa to stack him up for a quick pin attempt, but Scott kicks out at two. Pulling him up, Isabella unleashes a short but hard combination, kicking at the knee and driving an uppercut-style elbow into his jaw. As Scott reels, Isabella drops low with a sweep to the front of his ankles, dropping him face first to the mat. As Scott tries to push up on all fours, Isabella grabs an arm and steps over his head, immediately rolling him over into the Semper Fidelis once again! Scott scrambles to roll onto his side and lock hands, refusing to let her lock his elbow. Tightening her legs, Isabella tries to straighten out and force him flat, but Scott manages to get to a knee, then back on his feet, before finally stomping down on Isabella’s face! ‘La Belicista’ immediately breaks the hold and lurches away, while Scott shakes the pain out of his shoulder. Near the corner, Isabella pulls a hand away to reveal blood welling from a split lip. Something seems to come over the woman’s face as she turns and drills Scott with an explosive big boot to the face! ...only to collapse to all fours right behind him. Flat on the canvas, now with a bloodied nose of his own, Scott stares up at the lights as the referee steps in to check on them, threatening the ten count. Reaching for the ropes, Isabella pulls herself up.

Carter: Talk about living up to the moniker, ‘La Belicista’ is waging an all-out war with David Scott right now. Both of them bloodied after that last trade-off and I don’t know who wound up with the worst of it.

Bennett: I see one standing, and one flat on his ass. Seems like a pretty clear-cut answer to me, son.

Aiello: But she’s just too exhausted to make the cover. She’s taking everything Scott dishes out and then some, but she has to make the cover, or it doesn’t count.

Isabella reaches up to wipe the sweat and blood away, but it just smears across her face like war paint. No surprise, but the sight pulls more than a few reactions from some of the men in the crowd. Ignoring them, Isabella grabs hold of Scott and pulls him up, locking his head and snapping him over with a suplex, only to back roll into a mount and once more rain down punches. Rising to her feet, she pulls him up and tries to whip him to the near corner, but Scott reverses and launches her into the turnbuckles chest first instead. A look of pain erupts across Isabella’s face as her still-raw chest smashes into the pad, causing her to stumble back right into Scott, who swings her over with an inverted snap scoop powerslam, driving her face and chest into the mat. Kneeling beside her, he shakes his head a few times, still trying to clear the cobwebs after that big boot, while wiping the blood off on his arm. Grabbing a handful of hair, he pulls Isabella to her feet and locks in a pump handle, offering up a quick smirk as he stares down at the curve of her ass. It only lasts a second before he hoists her up onto his shoulder and powerslams her back down again, hooking the far leg for a cover. This time it is Isabella who beats the count, getting the shoulder up at two. Getting to his feet, Scott grabs hold of her legs in a wheelbarrow, looking to suplex her over, but as soon as he lifts her up, Isabella tucks and grabs hold of his right leg, reversing it into a kneebar! Scott tries to grab for the ropes, but they are too far. He screams in pain as Isabella tries to twist at the joint, but the thicker pad on that leg is making it difficult. Scott again reaches for the ropes, his fingers coming up short by a couple of inches. Face turning red from the strain of fighting back the pain, Scott turns and suddenly reaches down to pinch Isabella’s ass, twisting the skin as hard as he can! Isabella screams, more in shock than pain, but the distraction is enough for Scott to bring his foot up and slam it into her face, knocking her back and giving him a chance to roll away. While there is more than a few cheers and whistles from the men in the crowd, the women are happy to even it out with a chorus of boos and jeers.

Aiello: Obviously not a popular choice from Scott, but it worked. Any longer in that kneebar and I think Isabella would’ve had him dead to rights.

Bennett: Honestly, she should’ve seen it coming. Scott’ll do what needs doing in that ring. The man’s made it clear as crystal more than once. Personally, I think he could be doing a little more, but the dumb son of a bitch didn’t think to ask for my advice. His loss.

Carter: Crude but effective, as Joe said. Don’t know how smart it was, though, can’t imagine someone like Isabella taking that kind of violation lightly.

Making young Max a prophet, Isabella rolled away and pushed to her feet, spitting blood from the split in her lip, now made worse after that kick, but the expression on her face was more venomous than anything. Staring daggers at Scott as he pulled himself up using the ropes. A string of choice words erupted from ‘La Belicista’ as she stormed across the ring, the microphone clearly picking up “que mierda?” in the mix just before she blasted Scott with a short elbow to the side of the head, knocking him to the corner. Following him in, the trained soldier unleashed a hell storm of vengeance, including stomps to the knee, more elbows to the head, hard punches and even a straight up slap across the face for good measure. The last one earning a few cheers from her fellow sex in the crowd. Refocused, Isabella ducked low to drive a shoulder into Scott’s gut, then leapt up to monkey flip him out of the corner and into the center of the ring. Turning to crouch low, she waited for Scott to roll and weakly push himself up to a knee, before rushing forward and nailing a shining wizard on the point of his jaw. Scott lurched back to the mat and Isabella fell on top for the cover, almost picking up the three count if Scott had not somehow slid his foot beneath the ropes.

Aiello: Awareness and experience coming into play on that. Scott had no chance of kicking out of that pin.

Carter: I’m honestly not sure that was intentional. Scott looks completely out of it right now.

Bennett: This is why you ask for advice. I’d have just told him to move and he wouldn’t be power napping in the middle of a damn match.

Reaching out to grab the leg, Isabella drug Scott away from the ropes and out to the center of the ring, stomping away at his face, shoulder and arm while unleashing a verbal beatdown at the same time. By some miracle, the microphone fails to catch any of the tirade this time. Reaching down to grab hold of his arm, she pulls him up to his knee and starts to step over for the armbreaker, but Scott wrenches free and shoves her forward. Isabella stumbles, but catches her balance and immediately turns as Scott staggers to his feet. Isabella lunges in with a forearm, but Scott slaps her aside again. Turning, Isabella keeps the pressure on with a kick to Scott’s knee, almost buckling it. As he limps away, she gives chase, but Scott suddenly turns and throws her into the corner. This time, Isabella is able to grab hold of the ropes and stop herself from smashing into the turnbuckles, but the split-second is all Scott needs to tuck his head under her arm, lock her around the waist and snap over backward with the Hard Goodbye. The crowd oohs with the impact as Isabella’s body folds over itself, coming to a rest on her belly. Scott winces as his drags himself over and rolls her onto her back, barely draping an arm across her chest. The referee drops and counts three.

DING DING DING

Stroup: Here is your winner, by way of pinfall... "DIE HARD" … DAVID … SCOTT!

The crowd gives a mixed reaction as Scott painfully rolls off Isabella, reaching down to clutch his knee as the referee helps him up into a sitting position. Using the ropes, he pulls himself up and staggers back to lean against the corner, allowing the referee to raise his hand. Leaning forward, he braces hands to knees, struggling to catch his breath before limping over to where Isabella is beginning to stir. Dropping to his good knee, he whispers something to her that the cameras fail to catch, though he does pat her on the shoulder and nod afterward, giving a small salute in what looks to be respect before dropping and rolling out to the floor. Barely able to put any kind of weight on his leg, he begins slowly making his way back up the ramp as the shot fades to a push in on Carter, Aiello and Bennett.

Aiello: And so ends the war between these two here tonight, and man, what a way to set the bar for Brawl.

Carter: Isabella had David’s number. I don’t even think he’ll argue that. Luckily, he found a way to get into her head and break through all that training to make himself an opening. That’s the kind of difference experience can make.

Bennett: Like I said, I think he could’ve saved himself a lot of trouble by just taking it a little further, but in the end, he got the win and that’s all that matters in this business. Who knows, the son of a bitch might start growing on me.

Aiello: David Scott walking away with the victory here tonight, but I doubt we’ve seen the last battle in this conflict, so keep an eye out for the fallout from this one, folks. In the meantime, we need to take a short commercial break, but we’ll be right back with more action from the T-Mobile Arena, right here in Las Vegas! Stay tuned!

We cut to the back parking lot of T-Mobile Arena, where a BMW i8 in Gran Turismo Red hastily swings into the nearest parking space.

The driver’s side door swings up and open, and the crowd watching inside erupts as hometown boy Ace King steps out, clutching the X-Division Championship in his right hand for a moment before slinging it over his shoulder. A few locals have staked the area out, cheering ‘The Gambler’ on as he makes his way toward the secure backstage entrance.

After a quick check, Ace starts his trek through the backstage area, though it’s not long before BRAWL correspondent Bob Murray appears.

Bob Murray: Ace, you’re a bit later than usual. How are you feeling going into your first defense of the X-Division Championship against former champion Stephanie Matsuda?

Ace stops as he hears the question, though he’s got a thin smile on his face.

Ace King: I was getting some last-minute preparation in… Mental preparation, truthfully, in the form of watching Dead Poets Society. What a great movie.

Bob Murray: And how, pray tell, would that be helpful to your preparation?

The thin smile remains on Ace’s face as he clasps a hand on Murray’s shoulder.

Ace King: What’s the main line everybody remembers from that movie?

Bob Murray: O Captain, My Captain?

Ace King: No… Well, yes, I suppose, but what’s the next most memorable line?

Murray scratches his head for a moment trying to think, while Ace retains his grip on the correspondent’s shoulder as he whispers into the microphone.

Ace King: Carpe… Carpe diem… Seize the day, and make your lives extraordinary. It’s something I’ve had to remember as I’ve gotten older in this business… and if recent events are any indication, it’s a lesson Stephanie Matsuda needs to learn quickly.

The smile slowly fades from Ace’s face as he turns his gaze directly to Murray.

Ace King: See, I was a bit disheartened to hear how she referred to me in a recent interview, and it smacked of a lot more bitterness than I expected from her. There was a pretty clear solution on how to keep me out of the X-Division Championship picture, but instead of stepping up and doing something about it right then, Stephanie Matsuda waited with the expectation that she’d just be handed what she wanted.

The X-Division Champion shakes his head in disgust, adjusting the championship over his right shoulder.

Ace King: She didn’t want to seize the day when her time came, so why should anyone expect her to do it now? That’s not to discount her talents, of course, because I’m even more fucking sick of that line of thinking than I was about her bitching and complaining about why I had the shot in the first place.

Ace straightens himself up and takes a breath, running a hand through his hair before turning his attention back to Murray.

Ace King: Tonight, I’m seizing the day as I’ve done many times over, and I’m going to put on a performance worthy of my hometown, the Entertainment Capital of the World…

There’s a cheap pop from the T-Mobile Arena crowd as ‘The Gambler’ briefly gets amped up, allowing a small smirk to cross his face.

Ace King: And in the process, Stephanie Matsuda’s downfall will be extraordinary. Viva Las Vegas, Bob.

The X-Division Champion pats Murray on the back before continuing his march through the backstage area as we fade to a commercial break.

Jim Connors is in his office, using his abacus to calculate Brawl’s latest expenses. Suddenly, a sweaty near nude man bursts into the room.

Connors: Not again!

It’s none other than FSW Superstar, Big McLargehuge!

BIG: IS IT TOO LATE TO BE ON THIS CARD?

The GM of Brawl raises his eyebrow.

Connors: One, you’re not even on the roster.

BIG: Doesn’t STOP OTHERS!

Connors: And two, Brawl is on the air right now.

BIG: We’re on TV?

Connors: … yes.

Big looks around, and then directly into the camera. The audience is treated to a great shot of the inside of his nose.

Connors: … anything else?

BIG: … NO.

Big then snatches Connors’ abacus and bursts through the cheap drywall that was put up for his office space before running off, leaving a confused General Manager to just shake his head as he mutters under his breath.

Connors: … well, sh-

The scene cuts off quickly as we go to...

A TEST OF MIND, BODY, AND SPIRIT!
[TRIPLE THREAT MATCH]

"Blessed" Justin Paird
VS Callie Clark
VS Milenko

Aiello: Well, it looks like Connors has a lot on his plate tonight as we gear up for the tag team tournament in a couple weeks...but for now, we're focused on our next match as Justin Paird, Callie Clark, and Milenko square off in triple threat action!

Stroup: The following match is (put the match type in here) Joining us first, from Burlington, Vermont, weighing in at 230 pounds ... JUSTIN PAIRD!

As "Get Up" by Shinedown starts to play, Justin Paird rolls out onto the ramp in a wheelchair. He rolls down the ramp toward the ring, stopping once he's just outside it. He gets up out of the wheelchair and hobbles closer to the ring. As the chorus to his theme song hits ("Get up, get up!") Justin jumps up on the ring apron like he has two perfectly normal legs. The fans cheer for him as he tries his best to get them pumped up for the match about to happen. Justin continues to pump himself up as he waits for the bell.

Stroup: And his opponent, from New York, New York, weighing in at 115 pounds ... CALLIE CLARK!

"Off With Her Head" hits and Callie Clark struts out onto the stage after letting the music play for a few seconds, and strikes a pose on the stage, showing off her Huntress cosplay as seen in the recent Birds of Prey film, as pyro goes off behind her. She walks down the ramp, taking time to high five a couple fans along the way before taking a running start and jumping onto the ring apron, posing again on the apron. She steps through the ropes and walks to the middle of the ring, striking one final pose while shooting a wink to the camera then goes to her corner as the music cuts.

Stroup: Last but not least, their opponent, formerly from the Dark Carnival...MILENKO!

As the music hits the lights slowly go out. As the vocals start the lights rapidly strobe in and out as Milenko appears at various stages on the ramp and around the ring. The lights suddenly turn all the way back on to show Milenko suddenly in the ring, charging at Callie!

DING DING DING

Milenko is focused on tearing Callie Clark apart as soon as the match starts, laying into her with some hard lefts and rights before sending her into the corner...but Justin clocks him with a right hand to stop anything further! The two trade lefts and rights before Paird sends Milenko to the ropes. Paird looks for a clothesline on the rebound, but Milenko ducks under and hits one of his own, knocking Paird down hard! Milenko turns his attention back to Callie, who catches him with a roundhouse kick that sends him reeling back. Clark unleashes a flurry of offense on the visitor from the green brand, sending him into the corner before nailing a nasty step up high knee! Milenko falls to the canvas, but Callie is caught by a clothesline from Paird that sends both competitors over the top rope and out of the ring!

All three of them are slow to their feet, and seeing an opportunity at hand, Milenko sends himself over the top rope with a springboard crossbody! The ref begins the count, getting to two as Milenko is the first one back up. He brings Paird back into the ring, intent on taking the Blessed One out with a set of European uppercuts followed by a neckbreaker. Sensing the end is near, Milenko goes for a cover...but it's broken up by Callie who comes flying in with a leg drop on both of them! Milenko focuses his efforts on Callie again, but Callie perseveres as she sends the former Dark Carnival resident back out of the ring with a dropkick! Justin is back up, but is unable to stop a small package driver from Callie! LIGHTS OUT! Callie goes for the cover: 1...2...3!

DING DING DING

Stroup: And your winner, via pinfall...CALLIE CLARK!

Angry that he just missed his opportunity for a win tonight, Milenko slides into the ring and goes after Callie! Shouting profanities as he goes, Milenko looks to hit that Hell's Pit roundhouse kick but Callie ducks out of the way just in time! THOR'S HAMMER! The momentum from that Kamigoye knee strike is enough to bring Milenko down to the canvas, allowing Clark to finally celebrate her win tonight as we cut to commentary.

Aiello: Wow, what a win for Callie Clark tonight! Judging by what we just saw, this might not be over between Clark and Milenko.

Bennett: Callie had better be careful, though, because dealing with Milenko means dealing with some dark forces from the looks of it!

Carter: Yeah, this could be an interesting development for sure!

Aiello: In the meantime, we'll be gearing up for our next match. When we come back, Mag Hyperion takes on Bosa! Don't go away!

Camera cuts to ...

Backstage, we see Jim Connors looking on as the backstage hands help get his office fixed. He eventually turns his attention to us, trying his best to put on a smile.

Connors: Hello, Paradise! What a strange night it's been already, right? We haven't even gotten to the violence of the show, and things are already crazy. Still, we have a lot more in store for you with such thrills as 3 the Hard Way, the steel cage match between Darius and Gabrielle Visconty, and our main event as Ace King defends his X-Division Championship against Stephanie Matsuda! At this time, however, I'd like to give a shout out to FSW, who will be presenting their second-ever Uprising special this Wednesday from Cancun! Plenty of thrills and chills to be had, including two big title matches! Speaking of champions, this is a reminder that in two weeks, Brawl comes to you LIVE from the Rogers Centre in Toronto for its 555th broadcast, and a special tag team tournament for the very titles that are currently held by Melody Malone and Iggy Swango! I can already confirm some of the names coming in, from established tag teams like NSFW, Lunch Time, and Damage Inc. to new partnerships blossoming, such as the Journeymen and Monkey Business. Further details on the tournament have already been posted on our website, but we will iron out the last bits of information in the coming days!

The crowd pops for the announcement when suddenly, Jim's phone rings.

Connors: If you'll excuse me, I need to take an important call. Enjoy the rest of Brawl, folks!

The crowd pops again as Connor answers his phone, walking away as we move to a commercial break.

A TEST OF POWER AND MIGHT!
[SINGLES MATCH]

Mag Hyperion
VS Bosa

We return to ringside where we are preparing for our next big battle.

Aiello: Got ourselves the battle of the big boys here. Mag Hyperion versus Bosa! Two meat slapping mastodons about to collide!

Bennett: That son of a bitch Mag Hyperion is gonna take Bosa to school!

Carter: Bosa seems like he’s already there. Rumor is that hall of famer Xplode has taken an interest in this young man’s career.

Stroup: The following match is scheduled for one fall! Joining us first, from Toronto, Ontario, Canada, MAG HYPERION

A dark wooden door marked EXIT is smashed to pieces as Mag stomps through the wreckage followed by thick waves of fog. The giant denim clad man thumps his chest with his taped fists, spits out his cigar then lets out a roar before marching his way down the ramp. The camera shakes with every step and sparks shoot from the sides of the ramp as if his weight is causing destruction to the equipment. He kicks over the steel steps and jumps up to the apron, he steps over the top ropes then quickly rips his jacket off and throws it into the crowds.

Stroup: And his/her opponent, from San Jose, California, weighing in at 220 pounds ... the Samoan Warrior, BOSA!

"Indestructible" by Disturbed begins to play! The crowd completely erupts as Bosa emerges from the backstage area! Stopping on the stage area, he glares at the ring a moment, adjusting his gloves and pads. He looks determined, his eyes remaining on the ring as the camera pans around him.

Aiello: Bosa has come a long way since his debut at Wrestlefest. He’s had some big opportunities and he’s seemingly reevaluated what he has to do. Problem is that he’s got a 7 foot tall 400 pound monster standing in front of him that wants to break him in two!

DING DING DING

This match started about the way anyone would have. Bosa went right at the colossal man and hit him with everything he got. Three huge right hands that would fell any other man and the 7 footer laughed them off. He grabbed Bosa’s fist on the fourth attempt and then lifted him into the air with a one handed gorilla press. Mag Hyperion then punished the Samoan Warrior with his power. Body slam after body slam after body slam. He crushed him with a running body splash. He even tortured Bosa with a huge stalling suplex for nearly twenty seconds. The crowd even counted along. Bosa though didn’t find that too amusing. Right when the crowd was about to count twenty, Bosa fought out of the suplex with a by dropping behind the goliath with a neckbreaker on the way down! Woozy from the effect of the blood rushing to his head, he bounces off the ropes and looks to take down Mag with the Chin Check and it only staggers the monster! He tries for it again only for Mag to step aside and clamp down on Bosa’s head with the Godzilla Claw Hold!

Aiello: This match is a train wreck! Bosa is throwing everything he can to take down Mag Hyperion but oh my god...I think this is it. There’s no escaping this!

Bennett: That son of a bitch, Mag Hyperion is about to squeeze this boy’s head like a grape!

Carter: You’re in heaven, aren’t you?

Aiello’s prediction looked to be true. Bosa was fading and fading fast. He squeezes and squeezes his head but Bosa doesn’t answer the referee. He’s just shaking his finger at him, or maybe at his monster opponent, defying his destiny here. Even then, there is a huge contingent of the crowd impressed by Mag’s awe inspiring strength. Mag lifts him up into the air and screams at Bosa to give up! Bosa responded with a flailing kick to the gut and it doubled over the big man, releasing the hold. In a short burst, Bosa slams into Mag with the Samoan Pain Train!

It only staggered Mag!

Shocked, Bosa steps back further and then rams that shoulder right into Hyperion, it drops him and Mag is almost up to his feet immediately!

Shaking his head, Bosa got a running start, bounced off the ropes and speared that son of a bitch, Mag Hyperion with the SPT to end them all… and that’s what it took. Bosa got the one, two, three!!

DING DING DING

Stroup: And your winner, via pinfall BOSA!

Bosa rolls over off the top of the pinfall, not believing the violent abrupt war he’d just been in. The referee raised his hand but almost immediately Bosa dropped to a knee as he watched Hyperion roll out of the ring...but amazingly on his feet. The two glare at each other.

Aiello: Whoa! It took not one, not two, but three spears from the Samoan Warrior to take down Mag Hyperion, if you want to even call it that.

Bennett: That son of a bitch ...

Carter: ...Bosa whooped some major ass tonight. Hyperion is one bad man but look at Bosa, this is a victory he’ll remember for quite some time.

Aiello: That's right, and after a hard-hitting contest like that, we're about to see Brawl get a little more violent. In just moments we'll see the return of 3 The Hard Way, as the Titaness takes on Chuck Gacy and Alexander Cage in triple threat X-Division action!

Camera cuts to ...

The MacTron lights up, showing us a video package of some of the teams competing at Brawl #555 in two weeks:

NSFW

The Journeymen

Damage Inc.

The Porter Company

Lunch Time

The Southern Express

S.T.

We also get footage of superstars that are coming together for this very occasion:

Gabrielle Visconty & Killjoy Ito

Lavender & Richard Garcia

Tank & Milenko

Kendrick Kross & Vivi

The Armenian Beast & Dalilah Ashe

Nikolai Holmes & Jackson Gunner

And of course, we see the Tag Team Champions themselves:

DSR VOLUME II

The package ends by raising two questions:

WHAT DOES STITCHES HAVE UP HIS SLEEVE?

WHO ARE THE DIAMOND DOGS?

We move to a commercial break.

An engine can be heard revving in the back lot in almost the most obnoxious way possible. A camera operator and Bob Murray scramble to the scene to see a late model Mustang parked diagonally in two spots. Three people are at the trunk of the car. Church. McGuire. Gacy. All three are bandaged up from head wounds suffered from Friday night’s fight and altercations with AMH and Ace King respectively.

With all bags retrieved, the trunk gets shut and three make their way towards the interviewer.

Murray: Hold up! Can I get word with you all?

Gacy: No, piss off, old man.

Bob Murray isn’t that easily defeated.

Murray: I will once you answer my questions…

Gacy pivots on a dime and grabs Murray by the collar of his Brawl polo.

Gacy: My fist is about to question your fucking face.

McGuire: Chuck.

Gacy’s grip tightens.

McGuire: Fuckwit ain’t worth our time.

And it loosens.

Gacy: Lucky you.

Murray: Why I never…

Church shakes his head.

Church: Ask or don’t.

Murray: Alright, to Chuck first...Hamilton and Cage both questioned your drive and ability in this sport? What say you?

Chuck’s brow furrowed at the inquiry.

Gacy: What say me? I says they ain’t payin’ attention. I ain’t out here tryin’ to liked or be popular or none of that shit, man. Hell, I don’t even give a shit about gettin’ a pin or gettin’ someone to tap out, but they’d know what if they was listenin’. The X-Division’s what I’m here for. That’s why I carry the strap I stole from Xavier Reid around and wave it in that pussy Ace King’s face. This ain’t about wrestlin’ to me. This is about beatin’ the shit outta mother fuckers till they can’t get back up. If those two fuckin’ pussies wanna look at it like I ain’t got “drive” and shit then they’re about to figure out that I ain’t playin’ by their rules or with a full fuckin’ deck. I’m just out here to hurt people.

Murray’s eyes widen at that curse ridden answer.

Church: That’s what your problem is, Murr-ay. You and people like you don’t want to listen. They want to write Chuck off by what his record is. As disposable. You’ve got people out here who have always got what they have ever wanted but dare to have some persecution complex because some don’t buy it. You’ve got morons out there talking about elevating the business.

Church paused, briefly looking at Mike.

Church: Like we used to. In the past, we talked a lot about standing up for those that are marginalized but we weren’t. We talked about change but we weren’t really changing anything. There is only one way to do this. To make things better. And that is to spill their blood, and our blood, anyone’s blood into the service of slaying this beast.

Murray: What beast?

Church shakes his head.

Church: You know. You’re a part of it.

Murray: Where’s Nezumi? Neveah? No doubt lurking in the shadows.

McGuire: That’s none of your goddamn business. He’s around. They both are. That’s all any’a you dipshits need to know.

Murray: So Chuck’s clearly ready for his encounter. After last Friday, how do you think you’ll fare against the Journeymen who have said you lack focus. And even so, the tournament where over a dozen other teams will take their shot at the tag team titles. Are you ready for tonight?

McGuire scoffs at this.

McGuire: Interview’s over. We’re done supplying you fuckin’ soundbytes you can sensationalize.

The trio walks off camera without another look at the interviewer as we go to...

3 THE HARD WAY RETURNS!
[TRIPLE THREAT MATCH, X-DIVISION RULES]

Samantha "Titaness" Hamilton
VS Chuck Gacy
VS Alexander Cage

Aiello: Up next we have the return the 3 the Hard Way, our unique take on the triple threat match! Samantha Hamilton and Chuck Gacy are no strangers to X-Division Rules, but one of our newer athletes is in for a crash course as Alexander Cage wrestles his first match in the division!

Bennett: Hell yeah, every young eagle has to take the dive out of the nest to learn to spread its wings Joe! This is gonna be violent, and with Chuck Gacy involved, it's gonna get nasty!

Carter: Hang on a second, I'm hearing now that there's been a commotion backstage...

We cut backstage, where it seems Chuck Gacy is starting things off without even getting to the ring as he goes after Cage! The two trade blows before Gacy sends Cage into the nearest concession stand, knocking over a rather rotund fan with food in his hands! Gacy just laughs, grabbing hot dog from the bespectacled young man and taking a bite before going back to work on Cage...who sends Gacy headfirst into a door with a drop toe hold! Cage stomps away at Gacy, hoping to get the momentum fully in his favor when he's blindsided by a hard kick from the Titaness! Hamilton has entered the fray here, showing why she's been a fixture of the division in recent months as she unleashes a flurry of offense on Cage!

Gacy, on the other hand, is looking to simply dish out as much punishment as possible as he gets into things and starts throwing hands at both his opponents! This leads to a temporary alliance between Hamilton and Cage as they fight back, and the action finally makes its way toward the ringside area! They get to the hallway leading to the stage, using whatever they can find to get an advantage over the other before they finally make it to the announce table...where Cage sends Hamilton with a thud! This is not a Falls Count Anywhere match, however, and Gacy is fully aware of this as he grabs Cage and sends him toward the ring. The two men brawl until they finally reach ringside, but Cage reverses an Irish whip and sends Gacy crashing into the ring post!

Aiello: This match has been absolute chaos so far, but we are finally settling back down.

Bennett: I've never felt so alive, Joe!

Carter: And there goes the Titaness!

DING DING DING

Sure enough, Hamilton has made her way to ringside as the match officially gets underway, sliding in to face off against Gacy...who responds with a nasty right hand right to the skull! The two trade blows until Gacy sends Hamilton against the ropes...but the Titaness dodges a clothesline attempt by Gacy, and Cage catches him with a Dragon Suplex! Gacy is down as Cage and Hamilton exchange strikes, each looking for an advantage over the other. Cage catches Hamilton with a knee to the midsection before hitting a belly to belly suplex! Gacy's back to his feet at this point, and charges at Cage who catches him with a knee to the face! BRAIN TRAUMA! Cage looks to end things as quickly as possible, but gets turned around by Hamilton...WRATH OF THE TITANS! Hamilton catches Cage by surprise with that Pedigree facebuster, but we see Gacy slide out of the ring, searching for something underneath...he's got barbed wire, and he's wrapping it around his arm!

Hamilton's gone for the cover, but Gacy breaks it with with a barbed wire forearm to the back! Hamilton's to her feet, but so too is Gacy...SHOTS FIRED! Hamilton is down and out after that barbed wire lariat, as Gacy goes for the cover! 1...2...3!

DING DING DING

Stroup: Here is your winner, via pinfall... CHUCK GACY!

The ref raises Gacy's arm in victory to a chorus of boos, but Gacy pulls his arm away and takes off as we cut back to commentary.

Aiello: What a crazy match we just saw, folks! From the backstage area all the way to the ring, these three duked it out but Chuck Gacy pulled off the win tonight!

Bennett: Gacy using his street smarts and quick thinking, but credit to the Titaness and Cage who showed a ton of tenacity throughout! I think Cage is gonna fit in this division after all, and Hamilton proved she's hungry for that United States Championship!

As Samantha Hamilton slowly gets to her feet with the crowd cheering her, there’s a commotion from the front row. Titaness looks to each side of the ring as four men leap the barriers, each dressed in US Army trousers and no tops. She frowns and gets into a stance ready to fight as each man climbs onto the apron, their eyes fixed on Hamilton. Suddenly “Hail To The Chief” blasts over the speakers and Titaness rolls her eyes as if to say ‘oh of course’ as she looks to the stage and The Undisputed and United States Champion steps out. Scorpio has a grin on his face as he stops at the top of the ramp and raises a microphone, one hand resting on the United States Championship around his waist while the Undisputed Championship glints on his shoulder.

Scorpio: Hello darling… what… you thought it was just you who could make an unscheduled appearance? Oh no sweetie…

The crowd are booing loudly as Titaness keeps an eye on Scorpio whilst simultaneously ensuring the four men on the apron keep their distance.

Scorpio: I must congratulate you; I don’t quite know how you did it, but somehow you’ve managed to score yourself a United States Championship match. I suppose I should allow you the spotlight now while you can still enjoy it, you see soon enough your attempt at this title around my waist will be nothing but a painful repressed memory for you. Alas, my dear, for all your many interruptions and mind-games I can’t allow you to continue basking in the glory of being considered even remotely a challenger to me…

More boos from the fans as Hamilton shakes her head in the ring, and can be seen mouthing "Oh, just fuck off already!". Scorpio ignores her and the crowd as he continues.

Scorpio: And let me guess – AC Delaney said there would be consequences if there were fighting, so you think you’re safe? Well… yes there would be consequences if I were to fight you… indeed there would be consequences if an EWC-contracted competitor were to lay hands on you. Let me introduce you to Brody, Cody, Brett, and Hunter… none of them are contracted to the EWC… and most importantly none of them are me…

A sick grin twists over his face as Hamilton turns from one side of the ring to the other, keeping a close eye on the four muscular men.

Scorpio: Now, if they choose to call themselves “The President’s Men”, that’s their prerogative. If they choose to act as my personal security force, again that’s their prerogative. And indeed if they choose to enact some vengeance for their dear Commander-In-Chief… well… that is entirely their choice and not at all encouraged by me.

Aiello: This is ridiculous!

Carter: This man scored his Undisputed Championship shot by creating loopholes and threatening legal action, of course he’s now finding a way to wriggle out of Delaney’s rules.

Bennett: Aren’t you listening? He has nothing to do with those four men round the ring! That son o’ bitch is simply here to talk to Titaness!

Hamilton clenches her fists and spins around before she decides she’s not going to be a sitting duck. Before making any physical retaliations, however, she swiftly points a finger downward. It almost gets missed, but the person it was meant for - her husband, Joseph - sees it and frowns.

Even still, he heeds the signal and vanishes out of sight.

Samantha then runs at one of The President’s Men, throwing a hard forearm that sends him off the apron crashing into the ringside barrier. Titaness sees an opening and climbs from the ring, throwing a boot down on the fallen security guard whilst the other three rush around to meet her. She spots one coming and ducks a punch, driving a hard knee into his gut before she blasts his jaw with a superkick. The crowd are on their feet for this fight-back as Scorpio looks worried on the stage, and Titaness storms past the remaining two members of The President’s Men to run at the ramp.

Aiello: Scorpio looks on the back foot here! Maybe this plan has backfired!

Hamilton runs up the ramp and a wide-eyed Scorpio begins to take a step or two back as the fans cheer her on – but before she can make it halfway up the ramp one of The President’s Men tackles her from behind! He leaps onto her and tries to throw shots causing Sam to kick him off and roll to her feet, only to turn into a clothesline from the last remaining member of the group. The two still standing pile on her with punches and kicks before the two she’d taken down earlier join in, beating her down.

Carter: This is ridiculous. Delaney laid down the law and this is a flagrant breach of those rules!

Bennett: Scorpio hasn’t laid a hand on her! There’s nothing Delaney can do!

Scorpio looks more relaxed on the stage as two of The President’s Men take Hamilton down with a double DDT, and behind him Crème de la Crème comes out from the back using her crutches, her right leg still in plaster from her fall off the Hell In A Cell. In one of her hands is a Louboutin high heel and she holds it up, shouting for one of The President’s Men to come and get it. He does so and returns to the downed Titaness, placing the heel of the shoe in her mouth, leaving it hanging out. The President’s Men return to the stage and stand either side of Scorpio and Crème…

Scorpio: I’ll see you on Rampage… bitch.

The six on the stage raise their arms, Scorpio lifting the United States Championship high, as “Iconic” by Madonna plays out. The crowd boo loudly as the camera focuses on Hamilton laid out, the Louboutin high heel ritualistically shoved into her mouth… a sign of things to come?

Carter: Well folks that was hard to watch, since his ascent to the top Scorpio has become more and more sick and twisted.

Bennett: He’s sent a message loud and clear – don’t mess with The President!

Carter: … he should know better than to call himself The President around these parts…

Aiello: She may have been beaten down here, but Titaness is hungry for gold, and she has that United States Championship firmly in her sights. She’s a formidable competitor and I’ve got to say, I think Scorpio is underestimating her…

We move to a commercial break.

DESPITE ALL MY RAGE...YOU KNOW THE REST!
[STEEL CAGE MATCH]

Darius
VS Gabrielle Visconty

We come back from commercial to see stagehands making sure the steel cage is set for our next match before going to commentary.

Carter: Up next we have Gabrielle Visconty Vs. Darius in a cage match.

Bennett: Yes! This is been weeks in building. I can't wait to see these two finally come to blows in the cage. It's going to be glorious!

Aiello: This match is indeed a culmination of these two going at each other over the last couple months. I am not sure how it all started, but their history goes all the way back to their first meeting, back in Cleveland in a 3 way with 'Iron' Mike Strong. Neither Gabi or Darius walked away with the win. Then the Stranglemania XIV Tag Team Brand War where Gabi stapled a NSYNC card to Darius' head. From then on out it seemed to be past history...

Carter: Then at the start of the year the two seemed to reignite their hatred of each other, leading to Darius getting a win over Gabi at Brawl 552 by stapling a picture of her families obituary to her.

Aiello: A low blow, but it got Darius the win while Gabi was stunned, also landing Darius the number one contender ship for the International Championship at Stranglemania.

Bennett: Then Gabi jumped Darius after Stranglemania, right after his loss to Clay Byrd, and left Gabi entering herself into the X-Division. Darius didn't take it lying down and returned the favor at the start of Brawl 553, busting her and Tommy Love with his barbed wire bat early in the show, and leaving Gabi medically unfit to compete.

Carter: Gabi didn't just walk away. No, she tracked Darius down before the end of the show and the two had a backstage brawl that ultimately had to be broken up by the police.

Bennett: Law enforcement police, not the band, Joe...

Aiello: I know... The fallout of the backstage brawl landed Darius and Gabi in fines and arrests... Not to mention countless damages to backstage equipment and my rental car... Leading Connors to set up this cage match tonight.

Bennett: How'd that car damage turn out for you?

Aiello: It was an insurance nightmare... But the EWC sorted it out.

Bennett: I hoped you parked far away from the arena this time.

Aiello: Not funny.

Carter: It is, kind of.

Stroup: The following match is an X-Division rules steel cage match. The match can be won one of three ways; either by pin, submission or escaping the cage. Coming to the ring first, from Honolulu, Hawaii – weighing 120 lbs.: GABRIELLE VISCOOOONTYYYYY!!!

The lights in the arena slowly flicker and dim as the opening of “Non-Entity” by Nine Inch Nails begins to play. Fog billows out of the entrance way as purple strobe lights slowly cycle until Gabrielle slowly emerges from the fog. 'The Memphis Mouthpiece' Tommy Love then walks out after her. Tommy waves 'The Love Stick' in the air and has a black duffel bag slung over his shoulder, yelling out at the fans as Gabrielle ignores him and starts to walk down the ramp, her eyes fixed on the floor of the arena. Tommy sees this and runs down the ramp after her. Gabrielle walks through the gate and into the ring as Tommy walks around the cage and continues to hype the crowd.

Aiello: I wonder what Tommy has in the bag?

Bennett: You seriously want to know what is in Tommy's bag?

Aiello: You know what I mean.

Carter: I am sure it spells trouble for Darius, whatever it is.

Stroup: Coming to the ring next, from Albany, New York, weighing in at 265 pounds: DARIUSSSSSS!!!

"Let's burn it fucking down!"

As soon as "Gasoline" by I Prevail begins to play, plumes of thick white smoke covers the stage, Darius and Elissa Bradley emerge from within, Darius holding Elissa with one hand, his bat in the other, and donning looks of absolute aggression and determination on both of their faces. Darius hypes himself up, slams the bat against the ramp a few times, then rushes down the ramp and into the cage. He leaps onto one of the turnbuckle and harasses the crowd for a moment, smacks the bat into the cage a few times, then holds the bat high into the air with one hand and throws devil horns up with his other hand.

Carter: Darius certainly looks ready to...

Aiello: Look out!!

Gabi dashes across the ring while Darius is still standing up on the turnbuckle. She springs up behind him and delivers a German suplex from second rope driving Darius head first to the mat.

DING DING DING

Bennett: Wow! Gabi out of the gates with a huge suplex to start it off.

Gabi pops back up quickly and kicks Darius' bat out of his hand and to the side of the cage. She dashes to the ropes and springboards off the side of the cage with a frog splash. She rolls Darius up for the quick pin attempt.

1...

2...

3 – No!!! kick out by Darius at the last second.

Carter: Gabi going for the shock and awe quick pin and almost got away with a huge upset.

Aiello: Darius still looks stunned.

Gabi hops back on Darius and drops an elbow to his head and then starts raining them down. Darius covers up then bucks her off and rolls away. Gabi back to her feet in a flash chases after Darius, diving into a front roll and comes up with a roaring elbow. Darius staggers back and into the ropes. He hangs on the top rope and wipes the blood running out of his mouth. Grinning madly Darius stands back up and motions for Gabi to bring it. Gabi runs in with a spinning heel kick that Darius blocks and wraps her up and belly-to-back suplexes Gabi into the cage head first. Darius laughs as he slowly gets back to his feet. Suddenly a chair lands in the ring.

Carter: What the hell?

Bennett: Elissa just tossed Darius in a chair!

Aiello: She's getting another one. Wait! Here comes Tommy!

Elissa is about to toss another chair over the cage as Tommy rounds the corner waving the 'Love Stick' menacingly. Elissa quickly backs up and readies the chair. Tommy slams the Love Stick against the cage and catches Darius' attention as Darius picks up the chair. Darius runs over and slams the chair into the cage as he yells at Tommy. Gabi takes the distraction to crawl over and pick up Darius' bat. She lets out a sinister smile as she sneaks in behind Darius. Elissa yells at Darius about Gabi sneaking up behind him and he turns just in time to get the chair up to block the head shot from Gabi. Darius kicks Gabi in the gut and then cracks her over the head with the chair. Gabi stumbles back and drops to a knee. Darius steps in and attempts to drive the top edge of the chair into Gabi's face but she brings the bat up and knocks it away. Gabi rolls away from Darius and gets to her feet in the corner. Darius spins around and discus throws the chair at Gabi, hitting her in the hip as she blocks most of it with the bat. Darius immediately follows up with a spear, driving Gabi into the corner.

Carter: The Hunter's Mark!!! Darius just hit his finisher!!!

Bennett: So much for Gabi's run in the X-Division, this is all over!

Darius stands up and pulls Gabi to the center of the ring and starts stomping on Gabi's head. Outside the ring Tommy starts bashing his Love Stick against the cage trying to distract Darius, but Elissa steps in and cracks him across the back with the chair drawing a huge pop from the crowd. Darius drops on Gabi for the pin attempt.

1...

2.. Kick out by Gabi.

Darius smiles as he stands up and drags Gabi back to her feet by her hair. He nails her with a step up knee strike and goes for his bat. Outside the ring Tommy is crawling away from Elissa as she moves in for another chair shot. Tommy suddenly darts back and elbows Elissa right in the lady bits and she drops the chair, dropping to her knees in pain.

Bennett: Oh shiiit! Right in the hoo-ha!

Carter: Tommy being the dirty dog he is isn't beyond a low blow on a woman.

Aiello: Darius has his bat!

Darius picks his bat up and smiles at it. He turns and looks as Gabi starts to get to her feet. Darius takes one big step in and jabs the bat into the side of her head. Gabi crumbles to the mat and Darius spins the bat around in his hand as he laughs down at the prone Gabi. Tommy stands up painfully and taps the Love Stick on the cage to get Darius attention, then blasts Elissa over the top head.

Aiello: Oh my God! What a low move by Tommy Love!

Bennett: Elissa may have just gotten herself in over her head. Tommy may be a damn scumbag, but he has been around the ring as long as she has probably been alive. He's seen and done it all... literally.

Carter: Darius is losing his mind! He charges Tommy and starts climbing the cage frantically.

Aiello: Tommy may have saved Gabi a beating but he might have just cost her the match. Darius gets out of the cage and he's won!

Darius gets halfway up the cage and Tommy sees what he has gotten himself into and runs around to the other side of the ring. Gabi slowly gets to her knees as Darius continues to climb. She frowns as she notices the thin stream of blood running from the top of her head. She looks up and sees Darius about three-quarters up the ring. Gabi staggers to her feet and dashes to the side of the cage, jumps up and wraps her arms around Darius' legs and sinks her teeth into Darius' calf. Darius howls in pain as he tries to shake Gabi loose. A few failed attempts to shake her loose and Darius lets go of the cage and both of them crash to the mat. Gabi dodges a wild bat swing by Darius and rolls away. Darius hops back to his feet and limps a little on the leg that was bit. Gabi laughs at Darius and stays low and ready for his next move. Darius moves in on Gabi with his bat at the ready. Gabi feints a dive in at him and then rolls to the side as Darius swipes at her with the bat, barely missing. Gabi rolls up to her feet and snatches the chair off the mat. Darius circles to her right and then steps in with a huge baseball swing, which Gabi blocks, but loses the chair out of the force of the swing. Darius spins the bat back around and catches Gabi in the side with a sick thud. Gabi staggers away as Darius stalks her. Darius readies the bat again and the black duffel bag lands in the ring behind him. Darius spins around ready for an attack but sees the duffel bag. He reaches down and grabs the bag only to have Gabi dive roll across his back and snatch the duffel bag from his hands. She rolls away and smiles as she opens the bag.

Carter: Amazing agility from Gabi!

Bennett: Looks like you'll finally get a chance to see what's in Tommy bag now, Joe.

Aiello: Stop... Just stop.

Gabi pulls out an industrial staple gun and a hockey goalie blocker. Darius steps in and swings for Gabi's head and she barely blocks it in time with the blocker. Darius quickly follows it in with an overhead chop with the bat, which Gabi blocks again. The force of the blow drives her to her knee as Darius winds up for another swing. Gabi slams the staple gun into Darius' thigh and fires it. Darius yelps and hops back grabbing at his leg. He pulls the gold staple from his leg in time to see Gabi baseball slide in and slam another staple into his already injured calf. Darius drops on Gabi before she can get away and tries to rip the staple gun from her hand. Gabi cracks Darius in the head with the blocker and rolls away and to her feet... without the staple gun. Darius stands up with the staple gun in one hand and his bat in the other.

Carter: This is not good for Gabi.

Bennett: Payback is a bitch.

Aiello: Gabi is moving for the duffel bag again!

Gabi dive rolls to the side and grabs the duffel bag. Darius immediately charges in and gets a face full of white powder from Gabi. Darius coughs and hacks as he staggers back blinded. He swings the bat wildly as Gabi easily dodges his blind shots.

Bennett: Was that baking flour?

Carter: Looks like it.

Aiello: And it is in Darius' eyes. Not good.

Gabi stomps on the mat and gets Darius to take a wild swing, leaving himself open for Gabi's standing missile drop kick. Darius crashes to the mat and Gabi darts for the cage side by Tommy. She starts climbing up nimbly. She gets about halfway up when the staple gun slams into her back as Darius throws it at her. Gabi almost falls off the side of the cage but holds on. Darius rubs his eyes angrily as he staggers over towards Gabi as she starts to climb again. Darius takes a swing at her legs but Gabi lifts it out of the way in time. Darius takes another swing and Gabi moves out of his range. At the top of the cage Gabi starts to swing over the top of the cage. Darius cocks back and slings the bat at Gabi, cracking her right in the side of the head. Gabi collapses on the top of the cage.

Fans: HOLY SHIT! HOLY SHIT!

Bennett: That son-o-bitch just knocked her clean the fuck out!

Aiello: But she didn't fall back into the ring... If she topples over and falls out, she wins!

Carter: Tommy is climbing up the side of the cage to grab Gabi's arm!

Darius blinks his eyes and hacks a moment before he looks up and sees Tommy almost to Gabi. Elissa steps up behind Tommy and grabs his foot just before he can grab Gabi. Darius charges and dives into the side of the cage in a desperation move. Tommy and Elissa fly off the side of the cage and crash to the arena floor. Gabi tumbles off the side of the cage and lands on top of Darius in the ring.

Carter: Big gamble from Darius!

Aiello: He just saved himself a loss but Tommy and Elissa are in a pile on the floor of the arena, with Tommy looking to have taken the brunt of the fall.

Bennett: Everyone is down and slow to recover! What a match! What a match!!!

Darius starts to pull himself up off the mat as Gabi rolls onto her back and spits some blood out of her mouth. Darius rolls over and covers Gabi.

1...

2...

3 – No! Last minute kickout by Gabi!

Darius can't believe it. He rolls to the side and brushes his hair out of his face as he stands up. He walks over and grabs Gabi by the hair and gets yanked into a gogoplata. Gabi roars as she locks in the hold and pulls Darius' head down. Darius fights to escape but Gabi has it locked in tight. Darius lifts Gabi off the mat and Gabi thumbs him in the eye. Darius roars in pain and spins around and slams Gabi into the side of the cage, breaking the hold. Darius stumbles back and drops to a knee as he tries to catch his breath. Gabi starts to get back to her feet as she uses the ropes to get back up, shaking her head while trying to clear the cobwebs. A pair of handcuffs land in the center of the ring. Darius looks out and see Elissa leaning against the cage with a smile on her face. He nods to her and picks them up. He walks over and kicks Gabi in the side and yanks the hockey blocker off her right arm and slaps the cuff on her right wrist. Gabi drops to a knee and fires off a low blow to Darius, dropping him to his knees. Gabi rolls away and up to her feet. Darius starts to stand up with the help of the ropes. Gabi steps in and kicks Darius in the injured calf, dropping him to one knee. Gabi stuff his head under the top rope and then yanks the top rope back as far as she can then lets it go, snapping Darius in the back of the head and slamming his face into the cage. Gabi yanks Darius out of the ropes and steps back... only to realize she is cuffed to the top rope. She yanks frantically on the cuff as Darius staggers back and flips Gabi off as he laughs.

Aiello: Darius cuffed Gabi to the top rope!!!

Bennett: That slick son-o-bitch just caught Gabi napping on him and now she is going to have to watch him climb out of the cage for an easy victory.

Carter: Not sure that is on Darius' mind...

Darius steps back and picks the staple gun up off the mat and fires a staple into the air before turning back towards Gabi with a sick grin on his face. Gabi looks like a deer caught in headlights as Darius moves in on her. She kicks at Darius' leg but he checks it and grabs her left arm and fires a staple into her shoulder. Gabi screams in pain as Darius fires off two more in her shoulder before Gabi can knock the staple gun away from her shoulder. Darius knees Gabi in the gut, slams the staple gun down on the back of her head and fires off another shot. He tosses the staple gun and starts choking Gabi with the top rope.

Bennett: Welcome to the X-Division Ms. Visconty.

Carter: Oh my God! Darius has stapled Gabi at least four times and now is choking her out with the top rope!

Aiello: It looks like she is about out.

Gabi looks lifeless as Darius steps back and admires his handy work. He laughs before looking around the arena. He walks casually over to the side of the cage and starts to climb... but stops. He turns back around and looks at the motionless Gabi and a sick smile spreads across his face.

Aiello: Uh oh! That isn't good for Gabi!

Carter: He could of won easy by just climbing out... Why is he going back to Gabi?

Bennett: It's Darius... You think he is just going to climb out without crippling Gabi?

Darius walks over and picks up the staple gun again. Tommy is at the side of the cage in pain and yelling at Darius, trying to get his attention. Darius ignores him and walks over to Gabi and yanks her head up by her hair and staples her right on the forehead. Gabi jerks and screams in pain as she slips out under Darius' legs. Darius looks confused as he looks up to see the handcuffs hanging from the top rope.

Carter: Did Gabi just break her own hand to get out of the cuffs?!

Bennett: I'm impressed. Who'd have thought the little girl had such fight in her?

Aiello: Darius is pissed!

Darius angrily turns around as Gabi rolls to her feet. She stands up and shows Darius her bleeding hand as she snarls at him, plucking the staple out of her forehead with the other hand. A bag of thumbtacks hits in the middle of the ring between them and bursts open, scattering thumbtacks all over. Darius side steps the thumbtacks as Gabi circles the opposite way, keeping the thumbtacks in the middle of them. Darius finally just dashes through the thumbtacks and locks up with a surprised Gabi. Darius tries to staple Gabi again but she ducks under and drop toe holds Darius face first into the thumbtacks. Darius pops back up and starts trying to pluck the tacks out of his face as Gabi rolls away and comes up with a few tacks in her hand. Darius' bat suddenly lands in the middle of the ring. Gabi shoots Elissa a look of death as Darius grins. Gabi looks over at Tommy, who shrugs his shoulders and then tosses the Love Stick into the ring. Darius and Gabi both look at each other and then dive for their weapons. Darius rolls up with his bat and the staple gun as Gabi comes to her feet with the Love Stick.

Bennett: Don't know if I would pick up anything that Tommy calls his Love Stick...

Aiello: If Darius had a bat and was going to kill you with it, you dang well would.

Carter: Good point.

Bennett: There are somethings that Doctor's can't cure.

Carter: Good point.

Darius presses the attack with a huge swing and a miss as Gabi ducks under and jabs the handle of the Love Stick into Darius' ribs. Darius spins around and swings again at Gabi but she hops back out of the way. Darius roars in anger and steps in with another big swing that Gabi deflects with the Love Stick, but it is knocked from her hands from the force of the blow. Darius punches in with the staple gun and shoots a staple into Gabi's side as he swings the bat for her head. Gabi slips out of the way as the bat shot just misses her head. She kicks the staple gun out of Darius' hand but eats a bat shot to the hip. Gabi stumbles to the mat as Darius steps in for a huge overhead bat shot. Gabi rolls into Darius' legs as he comes down with the huge swing and breaks his bat on the ring. Gabi slips her legs around Darius' and drops him to the mat and goes for a knee bar. Darius fights to get her off his leg but Gabi is hanging on tight. He finally takes the handle of the broken bat and cracks it on her elbow, breaking the hold. Darius kicks Gabi off and rolls away as Gabi struggles to her feet. Darius grabs the top part of his broken bat and hurls it at Gabi as she stands, hitting her in the side. Gabi staggers away as Darius chases after her. Gabi staggers over to the ropes and barely manages to dodge Darius' big boot to the face. Gabi shoves Darius against the ropes and shoulder charges him into the cage, She locks her fingers in the cage and slams him into the cage once more before Darius locks his arms around her waist and tries to pick her up. Gabi is yanked from the cage but manages to grab the top rope. Darius powers her off the ropes and then tosses Gabi into the thumbtacks. Gabi screams in agony as she rolls to the side with about twenty thumbtacks stuck to her back. Darius laughs as he steps forward to grab Gabi... but is yanked backwards. Darius turns around and sees he is handcuffed through his pants to the top rope. He looks back as Gabi rolls to the opposite side of the ring and flips him off.

Carter: What a turn around move by Gabi. She must have got his pants while he was trying to pull her off the cage.

Aiello: Heads up move by Gabi.

Bennett: It'll just slow Darius down a little and make him even more angry...

Darius growls as he tries to free himself from the cuffs. He looks at Elissa for the key and she shrugs back at him. Gabi in turn immediately starts climbing the cage. Darius yanks and rips the back of his pants out and storms off after Gabi. He jumps up onto the cage and grabs her foot as she starts to climb over. Gabi screams and kicks Darius in the head but he shrugs it off. Darius climbs up to the top of the cage grabs Gabi by the throat as she punches at him. Darius tries to yank Gabi free from the cage but gets a three stooges eye poke for his trouble. Darius grabs his eyes in pain as Gabi elbows him in the forehead. She shoves Darius back and looks to just drop off the side of the cage, but Darius grabs her by the arm before she can. He punches Gabi in the gut as Gabi tries to elbow him in the face. Darius lurches forward and wraps his arms around Gabi and they both tumble off the side of the cage and into the announcers table as the announcing crew scatter. The announcers table blows apart as both wrestlers lay in a pile on the floor. The crowd blows the roof off the arena with cheers.

Carter: Who hit first?!

Aiello: I think it was Gabi!

Bennett: No way it was Darius!

DING DING DING

All three announcers look to the ref...The ref signals Gabi hit first!

Stroup: Your winner, by escaping the cage and hitting the ground first...GABRIELLE VISCOOOOONTYYYYY!!!

Carter: Oh my God! Listen to that crowd roar! What a showing tonight by both of these two!

Bennett: I can safely say that this is probably not over.

Aiello: Here comes the paramedics rushing out of the back.

Carter: That was crazy!

Bennett: Connors was right in locking these two in a cage.

Aiello: Holy cow! We will be right back after a word from our sponsors. Can we get a new table brought out? Holy cow!

With that we cut to a video package highlighting the tag team division of EWC, and the tournament for the titles on Brawl #555!

“The Alchemist” Nikolai Holmes is spotted backstage by Brawl personality Bob Murray. Murray is quick to plant himself in the path of Nikolai. Nikolai pauses his slow stroll, looks over at Bob, then flips his cloak outward as he turns to the Brawl personality.

Holmes: You may proceed to interview me Mr. Murray.

Murray: Nikolai Holmes, one of the latest additions to the FSW roster. What brings you to Monday Night Brawl?

Holmes: Ace King, came to our house. I figured I would return the favor. I am here to see if his reign will last beyond Stephanie, or if she will be the one to lose the X-Division Title to me.

Murray: Getting a bit ahead of yourself aren’t ya? You’ve only had one match. What makes you think you can compete with Brawl and Rampage Champions?

Holmes: You, and all who care to see, will witness my prowess for the X-Division this Wednesday at Uprising XX. It matters not how long I have been employed by the EWC, nor my novice status. Once that bell rings, I am the one in control. I do not let emotions unravel me like the current X-Division Champion. I know this Sebastian Conner clown has been spouting about his interest in the X-Division Title. He may yell and scream louder than me, but I do not rely on my bark as much as he does. My bite is much more dangerous than his.

But you would see Conner as more of a threat than me. Why? Because he was here once and ran away before he accomplished anything of note? Experience does not always breed success, as you will come to find out when the experienced Art Reemus is knocked unconscious.

Holmes gives a smug look about this, as Murray reluctantly nods in agreement.

Murray: I guess you do have a fair point. Still, some tough talk for an unproven commodity. Are you worried this level of confidence will put a target on your back?

Holmes: I am drawing the target Mr. Murray. I want the rest of FSW and EWC gunning for me. It might make this interesting. My plan is to hold one of the FSW and X-Division belts by Night of Champions.

Murray: Once again, too bold I must say. But hey, good luck. Now, I must also ask if this visit has anything to do with the Tag Team Tournament?

Holmes: It is good to see you possess the power of critical thinking Mr. Murray. The Journeymen vs NSFW will be a match garnering my attention. And now that is about all the attention you will receive. Good day Mr. Murray.

“The Alchemist” Nikolai Holmes turns on a dime and starts his slow stroll down the hall and out of view.

Murray: Well there you have it folks. Nikolai Holmes, one of FSW newest additions is here on a reconnaissance mission. Look at EWC, his ambition seemingly has no limits. Enjoy the rest of the show.

With that we go to...

A BLOSSOMING ALLIANCE IS TESTED!
[TAG TEAM MATCH]

The Journeymen
VS NSFW

Aiello: Up next we have a tale of two very different pairings. Mike Strong and Jeb Jackson have joined forces to prove themselves in the tag division, but can the Journeymen tackle the challenge of Mike McGuire and Bishop Church, or will NSFW prove value to their "we first" attitude?

Stroup: Ladies and Gentlemen, the following contest is a tag team match! Introducing first, at a combined weight of five hundred and five pound. Jeb Jackson..."Iron" Mike Strong... they are THE JOURNEYMEN!

"You can run on for a long time, Run on for a long time, Run on for a long time. Sooner or later God'll cut you down, Sooner or later God'll cut you down"

The lights go black as "God's Gonna Cut You Down" by Johnny Cash begins to play through the arena. The crowd silence grows to a murmur, then excitement as the legendary King of Country continues to sing. The screen says "It's Been A Long Road Foe..." to spotlights flash onto the stage where to large men stand, looking down toward the ring.

"Well my goodness gracious let me tell you the news, My head's been wet with the midnight dew, I've been down on bended knee talkin' to the man from Galilee."

Mike Strong stands stoic his arms to his side, Jeb Jackson throws a single hand in the are and the the lights flash as fireworks explode. The words on the screen morph to "The Journeymen". The two men begin to make their way down the ramp, give light high fives to the crowd. Mike climbs up the steel steps as Jeb slides into the ring. Mike cleans his feet onto the apron and climbs into the ring.

"Well you may throw your rock and hide your hand, Workin' in the dark against your fellow man. But as sure as God made black and white, What's down in the dark will be brought to the light."

Mike and Jeb make their way to their corner as the crowd begins to chant "JOURNEY MEN" ... "JOURNEY MEN" ... "JOURNEY MEN".

Stroup: And their opponents, making their way to the ring, from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, Mike McGuire, Bishop Church, they are NSFW!!!

The lights suddenly drop. Words flash across the screen accompanying Jacoby Shaddix’s vocals and a strobe pulse from the side lights.

We Waste Our Time And Wait In Line

While Nothing Changes

But Nothing Changes

UNTIL THE PEOPLE GET LOUD

The lights flare to life again as ‘Renegade Music’ continues, white pulses and lasers- notably devoid of the once-iconic green and orange- flash along with the words WE FIRST. ALWAYS. NSFW in succession on the Mactron. Mike McGuire and Bishop Church enter to a nuclear booing reaction, the two of them walking in lockstep, affording those wearing their gear or holding NSFW signs along the entry ramp a smile or wave as they approach the ring, seemingly ignoring everyone else.

Mike and Bishop then enter the ring, slipping through the ropes and standing in the center, each with a left fist raised.

DING DING DING

The crowd roars as Mike McGuire and Jeb Jackson circle the ring.The two of them lock up, Jeb begins to drive McGuire back into the neutral corner, moments before hitting the turnbuckle Mike rotates his hips and pins Jeb against the ropes. They take a step back and then drive a shoulder into Jebs abdomen, again, then again. The referee steps in and pulls Mike away. As the referee moves away Mike doubles Jeb over. They grab his wrist and attempt to whip him across the ring, but Jeb counters pulling Mike back in and delivers a devastating ripcord clothesline.

Aiello: Jeb Jackson just looks like the stronger competitor out there.

Bennett: Individually Strong and Jackson are formidable competitors but as a team they are green, not even in the same discussion as NSFW.

Jeb pulls Mike to their feet and shoves them back into the corner. Jeb stalks over to them and delivers a huge knife edge chop. Mike stumbles away trying to run toward Bishop whos arm is extended, but Jeb catches them by the waistband. Jeb pulls them back in and delivers a huge forearm to the small of their back. Mike falls to the floor. Jeb drags them to their feet and DELIVERS A DEVASTATING SUPLEX INTO THE TURNBUCKLE!

Aiello: He connects with The Whipping Post! Jackson is picking McGuire apart.

Bennett: Let’s not be hasty.

Carter: The referee is making the count.

Jeb pulls them away from the corner and go for the cover, the referee falling down for the count. ONE! TWO! THR...Kick out by Mike McGuire!

Bennett: See, we are a long way from the end of this match.

Carter: Jeb Jackson has started this match on fire. Can the former tag team champions find an answer.

Jeb drags Mike up to their feet, and throws them back into a neutral corner. Jeb runs and delivers another huge slap to the chest. The crowd winces as Jeb shoves Mike into his corner and tags in Mike Strong. Strong pulls McGuire away from the corner, and whips them into the ropes. On the rebound Strong lifts McGuire up for the flapjack and Jeb connects with a devastating Codebreaker! Strong floats over into a cover. ONE! TWO! THRE...NO! Bishop comes in and breaks it up. Jeb tries to attack Bishop but the referee intervenes trying to send him back to the corner.

Aiello: Watch out for Bishop!

Bennett: A pure opportunist.

Bishop takes advantage grabbing Mike Strong and pulling him to his feet, with one swift move he drops him on top of his head. He grabs McGuire's arm and places it on Strong’s chest. The referee turns around as Bishop exits the ring. The referee falls to make the count. ONE! TWO! THRE...Mike Strong throws his shoulder off the mat.

Bennett: I thought that was it! What a plan.

Carter: Cheating doesn’t lead to victories.

Mike McGuire immediately wraps their legs around Strong’s leg and begins to drag him over to the NSFW corner. They reach up and tag in Bishop. Bishop charges across the ring and delivers a huge boot driving Jeb off the apron. Bishop turn his attention to Strong and lifts him to his feet. McGuire and Bishop lift Strong up high over their heads with a huge double suplex. McGuire climbs onto the apron and Bishop delivers right and left as he mounts Strong. Bishop pulls Strong to his feet and delivers a huge t-bone suplex, flinging him across the ring and crashing into a neutral turnbuckle.

Aiello: What strength by Bishop. He is man handling Strong here.

Bennett: He is showing the world why they are the former champions.

Bishop makes his way over to the corner and begins to drive his knee into Strong’s throat.The referee frantically struggles to pull the big man off Strong. But as the referee backs him away Mike McGuire reaches around the turnbuckle and wraps his hands around Strong’s throat. The referee turns back around and they break the hold.
Carter: NSFW taking advantage of the situation here tonight.

The referee yells at McGuire and Bishop drives another fist to the jaw of Jeb Jackson, sending him crashing to the floor. McGuirie climbs into the ring and shoves Mike Strong into the corner. Bishop shoves McGuire into the ground then catapults McGuire into corner for the BISHOP TAKES QUEEN! Mike Strong collapses to the canvas, Bishop makes the cover...ONE! TWO! THREE!

DING DING DING

Stroup: And your winner, via pinfall... NSFW!!!

Aiello: What a win for NSFW tonight! Jackson and Strong proved they are ready for the tag division and the tag team tournament in a couple weeks, but Mike and Church pick up the victory.

Bennett: And you'd better believe the rest of the tag division is on notice now!

As NSFW stands in the ring following their match, the MacTron flickers and Dominic Sanders pops up onto the screen.

Sanders: Oh, hello Mike. Hello John. I hope you two are having just a fan-fucking-tastic evening. I wish so badly I could be there to beat your brains in again like I did on Friday.

Sanders chuckles as NSFW is seething in the ring.

Sanders: Oh, don't be so sore about it. It's not like you didn't just do that to me eight days ago. Like I said, I wish I could be there. Maybe we could have hashed some things out. But, instead, I am on the way to Germany for Prime. You know, that brand where I am the absolute pinnacle? But onto business. Two weeks, y'all. There is some big Tag Team Tournament and I KNOW you two will be in it. At the same time, I know that you think America's Most Hated is history. You found out otherwise on Friday when I came to the aid of my friends. You're also going to find out on Brawl #555, as well. Because I will make it my personal goal to make sure you two do not walk out of Toronto as the Tag Team Champions. Even if Melody and Iggy don't, I will make damn sure it's not because you do...

The crowd actually cheers a little bit.

Sanders: ...You can bet on that.

The feed on the MacTron cuts out as we fade to commercial.

The camera cuts backstage where we see Xavier Reid finishing up his final stretches as he looks at his phone, there on the screen is his cousin Tlatoani Volando, where his traditional Yellow and Black mask along with a homemade bandana mask around his mouth and nose.

Reid: So how are you feeling?

Tlatoani Volando: Ok, no fever or anything...we just all have to stay locked in here at La Mazmorra and quarantine ourselves…

Reid: That sucks cousin…

Tlatoani Volando: ALL BECAUSE Chiquitita had a hankering for Ben & Jerry’s chunky monkey at 1am and went to the store and caught herself a case of the COVID-19!!!!

From off camera you can hear Chiquitita chimes in

Chiquitita Volando: I didn’t hear you telling me to stay in, in fact you said ‘AWESOME, pick me up some double fudge brownie’...

Tlatoani Volando: Well you were already going out...and then you went and got the RONA...I always figured you catch something with your free-wheeling lifestyle but it would only kill you...not the rest of us...you realize that Chiquitita is going to be the one that kills off The Volando’s Xavier...my money was on you…

Reid: You are going to be fine, all of you are...well maybe not Chiquitita when Villano gets a hold of here…

Tlatoani Volando: Yeah he’s super pissed, no students allowed in, no training, no classes...Chiquitita has been on one well of a Hide and Seek run the last few days avoiding him, Perdido and Abando since she tested positive...can’t believe I’m missing vegas, how is it?

Reid: It’s fine, Sr. drug me to dinner with some of his old friends the other night but it was nothing, just ready to get this match going…

Tlatoani Volando: Clay Bryd, big old Texan but you took care of him last year in New York, back when I was at your side and we were traveling the world...in happier times Xavier...BC...Before Corona...now I’m stuck at La Mazmorra probably positive because I used Chiquitita’s toothbrush after eating Liver and Garlic…

Reid: And why did you use her toothbrush?

Tlatoani Volando: Because I thought it would be funny but now...not so much…

Reid: Well take care of yourself buddy, I’ll Facetime later…

Tlatoani Volando: Ok, where is Uncle Sr.?

Reid: On his way over from the MGM...said he needed to pick something up…

Sr. Espejo (in a terrible Mexican accent): Which I did, hello there Tlatoani, please tell your father I will call him and Villano later tonight after Brawl, I’m thinking about you all and hopefully we will get to see ALL of you again here soon…

Sr. waves into the camera but before Tlatoani can say goodbye Sr. ENDS the video call

Reid: That was a bit rude of you…

Bur Sr. waves him off

Sr. Espejo (in a terrible Mexican accent): This is the moment Xavier, you have a match...an opponent in front of you that has been an absolute monster this year, the International Champion, a guy that beat Ace King, his only real kryptonite this year has been Scorpio and let’s face it...he’s everyone’s kryptonite this season…

Sr. Espejo watches as Xavier switches legs

Sr. Espejo (in a terrible Mexican accent): You want to turn this year around then Clay Byrd is the type of opponent you need in front of you. A Top 5 wrestler in the Elite 15...you remember the Elite 15 right, it was that thing you were a part of all last year…

Reid: Funny…

Sr. Espejo (in a terrible Mexican accent): I wasn’t trying to be Xavier, I’m trying to remind you that you aren’t too far removed to who THAT guy was. Maybe you got soft, maybe winning the X-Division Championship at WrestleFest put you in a place where the hunger was fed, you spent two months being satisfied with what you accomplished that night in France, maybe it made you soft…

Xavier looks up at his uncle who shrugs his shoulders

Sr. Espejo (in a terrible Mexican accent): Tlatoani said you lost the ‘eye of the tiger’ but I think he’s been watching Rocky again...my point is Xavier you lost that thing that made you special but tonight you have a chance to get it back...the EWC thinks Clay is special, they have him ranked #1 in the Undisputed Championship rankings and sure, he’s bound to fall after Rampage’s loss to Scorpio but he’s Jim Connors’s top singles guy right now, Brawl’s lone singles champion...he’s the guy the GM is looking towards to replace Cyrus Black and those our huge shoes to fill but they believe in Big Tex...and this is your chance to add some doubt…

Xavier stands up and starts rotating his core

Sr. Espejo (in a terrible Mexican accent): There was a time where Jim Connors believed in you like he believes in Clay and maybe he still does Xavier, he’s booking you in high profiled matches even with your less than stellar record or maybe this is a reward for smacking around Chuck Gacy for the second time for the GM and making sure he doesn’t have to reward that foul mouth ex-con…

Reid: If beating up Chuck Gacy keeps me in good standings on Brawl then keep signing me up and I’ll keep shutting his loud mouth…

Sr. Espejo (in a terrible Mexican accent): Beating Chuck is one thing but tonight you are stepping into the ring with a REAL champion, not a pretend one carrying around the remains of a stole championship...unlike Chuck Clay earned the International Championship and is a fighting champion, people will say you are the underdog here tonight Xavier...in fact…

Sr. Espejo reaches into his pocket and pulls out a betting slip

Sr. Espejo (in a terrible Mexican accent): According to the MGM Sports Bet you are a +165 tonight…

Sr. Espejo holds the ticket out to show Xavier

Reid: That’s a lot of money you are putting on me tonight uncle…

Sr. Espejo (in a terrible Mexican accent): That’s how much I believe in you Xavier...I believe in you $2,000 dollars worth, now go out there and make me some money kid…

Reid: I’m going to want my cut…

Sr. Espejo (in a terrible Mexican accent): We will see, we can talk about it on our way to Cancun...good luck out there...make me proud kid…

Xavier looks oddly at his uncle for a second and then nods

Reid: Yeah, I’ll do that...

With that final statement, we go to...

HARD HITTERS HITTING HARD!
[SINGLES MATCH, NON-TITLE]

Xavier Reid
VS Clay Byrd

We return to ringside where the camera settles on Joe Aiello, Steve Bennett and Max Carter.

Aiello: Up next is a battle of two men looking to bounce back, it’s been no secret that Xavier Reid is not off to the best start here in 2020 and after winning the International Championship at StrangleMania Clay Byrd has dropped back to back matches and tonight both men look to right the ship.

Bennett: You know what the most dangerous thing to do in this business, piss off a Texan, Clay Byrd is liable to take Xavier Reid’s head right off his damn shoulders here tonight after losing to Scorpio at Rampage Friday Night.

Carter: But Xavier Reid is a former two time X-Division Champion, he’s not new to a fight Steve, this one is going to be an absolute BRAWL here tonight on Brawl.

Stroup: The following match is a Non-Title Match scheduled for one fall Joining us first, from New York City, weighing in at 220 pounds ... XAVIER REID!

’Papercut’ plays out as Xavier Reid walks out onto the stage, crossing his arms into an X. He pauses for a second or two and then heads down to the ring shadow boxing on his way down the aisle. He stomps up the steps and climbs into the ring, walks to the middle of the ring and holds his arms over his head and crossed the into an X

Stroup: And his, from Outskirts of Plainview Texas, weighing in at 295 pounds ...he is the EWC International Champion CLAY BYRD!

Guitar and harmonica begin to blare through the arena, the start of Gunning For You sends a silence across the crowd as Nick Nolan's lyrics echo through the arena. The state of Texas appears on the screen, and slowly fades into a highlight video.

My Gun is loaded it's getting time

Two shots of whiskey i'm takin' what's mine

Ain't what you're sayin it's what you do

Your time has come boy i'm Gunnin for You

When hell is rainin down you'll see my face won't heara sound

You'll feel that bullet burnin through

Take your last breath boy

I'm Gunnin for You

Clayton Byrd steps from the back, clad in his fathers leather vest and with red tights. His right arm is raised in the air holding the EWC International Championship. Clay begins his slow walk down the ramp. His eyes are fixed on the ring, and he trudges on. Not paying any notice to any of the fans in attendance.

There's desperation deep in your eyes

No turnin back now no compromise

Cause only one of us walks out that door

The other bleedin out on the floor

Clay walks up the steps, and climbs into the ring and locks eyes with Xavier.

Aiello: These two look like they want to kill one another, we are in for one heck of a battle here tonight.

DING DING DING

Once the bell rings both men come storming out to the center of the ring and start trading right punches, one, two, three, four, five, six, seven but Clay’s size and power gives him the advantage and he is able to keep punching Xavier and back him into the corner. Clay drives a forearm into the head of Xavier and then another one, he pushes back his head and looks out to the crowd and smirks, he slaps Xavier across the chest with an echoing chop and then again and again, each one louder than the last and Xavier’s chest goes bright red. He lets Xavier go and Reid drops to a knee in the corner. Clay seems to be enjoying himself as he puts his foot on Xavier’s head and pushes him and pushes him again and then kicks Xavier in the head. He rips him up by the hair and scopes him up over his shoulder and runs and plants Xavier in the middle of the ring with a Running Power Slam. He covers and the ref slides into place, he counts 1..2. but Xavier kicks out as Clay smiles.

Aiello: Clay seems to be enjoying himself here so far.

Bennett: That Son O Bitch is giving Xavier the beating his father would have had he not run out on his momma

Carter: Wow, that was a little uncalled for

Clay stands up and backs away from Xavier and squats down, he motions for Xavier to get up and as Xavier gets to his feet Clay comes charging in but Xavier ducks the lariat, Clay turns around just as Xavier jumps and nails Clay with a Pele Kick to the face, Clay stagers backwards a bit and Xavier nips up and clotheslines the big man over the top rope and Clay goes crashing to the floor. Xavier looks down at Clay and then backs away from the ropes, as Clay gets to his feet Xavier comes across the ring with a cartwheel into a back hand round off over the top rope corkscrew dive onto Clay.

Aiello: X-Treme Air from Xavier Reid

Bennett: That’s a lot of unnecessary fancy flipping if you ask me

Carter: But it took down Clay Byrd

Xavier pushes Clay back into the ring and sets him up in the corner, he backs away and then comes running into the corner with a face wash across the face of Clay with his boot. Xavier starts to get a little cocky as he pulls Clay back up to his feet and starts to kick Clay’s legs trying to chop the bigger man down, Xavier takes a few step back and comes running at Clay, he jumps going for a Superman Punch but Clay explodes up at Xavier with a Spear and nearly turns Xavier inside out.

Aiello: What athleticism from the former Texas Longhorn

Bennett: Xavier’s ribs could easily be broken here

Carter: Clay can’t be underestimated inside that ring

The Spear seems to bring Clay to life as he grabs Xavier and rips him up to his feet and grabs him around the waist and unleashes a monstrous German Suplex, dropping Xavier right on the back of his head. Clay laughs as he walks over and grabs Xavier again and lifts him up and drops him again on the back of his head with a German Suplex and then for good measure he hits one more German.

Aiello: Clay really showing us why he’s a champion here tonight

Bennett: The Son O Bitch is about to end that losing streak

Carter: Clay is signaling this is it

Clay backs away and once again motions for Xavier to get up, Xavier gets to his feet and turns towards Clay, Clay comes running in for the West Texas Lariat but Xavier catches him and uses him momentum and counters the West Texas Lariat into his Rainham Maker X-Ploder. Xavier gets to his feet and grabs Clay by the arms and starts to kick away at Clay’s face with the Fuck YOu Stomp, after about 7 kicks to the face Xavier lets Clay’s arm go and heads up to the top rope and comes off with his 450 Phoenix Splash, X-Marks The Spot. He covers and the ref counts 1...2...3!!!

DING DING DING

Stroup: And your winner, via pinfall XAVIER REID!

Xavier rolls off of Clay and rolls to the outside to celebrate as Clay shakes off the splash and slams his hand onto the mat in frustration.

Aiello: What a win here tonight for Xavier Reid, beating the International Champion

Bennett: Kid got lucky here tonight Joe, Clay will be back and when their paths cross again I wouldn’t want to be Xavier Reid

Carter: This could be a huge turn around for Xavier and is sure to open our GM’s eyes.

Aiello: Folks, up next is our main event as Ace King defends his X-Division Championship against Stephanie Matsuda! Don't go away!

We move to a commercial break.

THE GAMBLER'S FIRST DEFENSE, AND IT'S A DOOZY!
[SINGLES MATCH, X-DIVISION RULES]
FOR THE X-DIVISION CHAMPIONSHIP
Stephanie "Cloud" Matsuda
VS Ace King (C)

Aiello: Here we are ladies and gentlemen. It’s the match we’ve ALL been waiting for since the night started. Ace King, the newly minted X-Division champion and fresh off the heels of his hellacious match Friday night on Rampage where he retired his long time adversary and friend Luke Wolfe, is about to defend for the first time again the Woman who held that title for five months before losing it to Xavier Reid at WrestleFest, Stephanie Matsuda.

Bennett: Yawn… No one gives a damn about this match! Ace King with yet another title match and Stephanie Matsuda hasn’t been relevant since December. The fans are going to be put to sleep.

Carter: It’s the X-Division Bennett! Anything can and WILL happen here. No rules, Ref is only their to count the pinfall or make sure no one has passed out! I love this shit Joe!

Aiello: The Gambler…. The War Queen… Who walks home with the X-division championship?... We’re about to find out!

The camera cuts to the ring where Jessica Stroup is standing by. The lights dim and a spotlight is put on the Brawl ring announcer.

Stroup: Ladies and gentlemen it is now time for your Monday Night Brawl Main Event!

The crowd cheers.

Stroup: The following contest is scheduled for ONE fall and will be contested under X-Division rules for the EWC X-Division championship! Introducing first! Making her way to the ring, being accompanied by Monica Vaughan! From Brooklyn, NY! Weighing in at 132lbs,... The War Queen... STEPHANIIIIIE MATSUUUUUUDAAAAAA!

“Rainy Days” by Boogie plays as Stephanie "Cloud" Matsuda walks out dressed in her signature black fitted cap and a bandanna around her face. Trailed by manager Monica Vaughan, Matsuda walks on stage and crouches low, getting ready for her match. Beside the two women is a trashcan full of weapons of various sizes

Stephanie grabs the trash can as she and Monica walk down the ramp, their eyes fixated on the ring. At the bottom of the ramp, Matsuda tosses the can over the top rope before she runs and slides into the ring.

Aiello: The War Queen not wasting ANY time here tonight, she’s got the toys out early here! I see all sorts of treats for the fans here tonight. Kendo sticks, some barb wire in there, and is that a cheese grater?!

Bennett: This might not suck after all!

Stephanie takes a moment to run the ropes and throws her hat into the crowd. She then climbs the nearest turnbuckle, pulls down her bandanna, and holds up her title as she stares into the crowd. She then jumps down and gives her ref her belt as she prepares for her match.

Stroup: And her opponent!

"THE ACE OF SPADES!!! THE ACE OF SPADES!!!"

The crowd hears Lemmy's growl, and they go nuts as the opening bass line to 'Ace of Spades' rips through the T-mobile Arena. As the drums kick in, pyro goes off up and down the ramp in time with the beat, while frenetic red and gold spotlights pulse through the building before fixating on the ramp.

Stroup: Making his way to the ring, FROM Las Vegas, Nevada, weighing in at 235 pounds... He is the X-Division Champion... THE GAMBLER... AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAACE KIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIINGGGGGG!!!

There's a huge explosion as the guitar kicks in, and the crowd roars as the one and only Ace King rises from a platform through the smoke of the pyro and into the spotlights, soaking in the ovation with his championship draped over his shoulder. 'The Gambler' stays on a knee, taking the title down to look at it for a few seconds. He takes a deep breath and walks to the ring, calmly interacting with fans all the way down the ramp.

He stops for a couple seconds at the end of the ramp, then charges to the ring, with gold pyro exploding from the turnbuckles as he dives in under the bottom rope. He spins up onto one knee and stares out into the crowd before getting to his feet and hoisting his championship up for all to see. Once he hands the belt to the referee, he gets his game face on while staring a hole through his opponent.

Referee Josh Daniels looks to Stephanie Matsuda and asks if she’s ready, getting a curt nod from the stoic face of the War Queen. He turns to the Champion and asks if he is ready. Ace looks through him to his opponent and nods. Josh Daniels returns to the middle of the ring and holds the X-Division title high in the air before handing it off to a ring attendant, then signaling for the bell.

DING DING DING

As the bell rings, both competitors meet in the middle of the ring. Matsuda looks to tie up with the Gambler, but he extends his hand out to her instead. Cloud takes a step back and puts her hands to her sides. She looks around for a moment, before she reaches out and shakes the hand of the X-Division champion. That moment of respect out the way, both wrestlers lock up now and immediately Matsuda is down on one knee as Ace begins to execute on his strength advantage immediately. Stephanie battles back and gets back to her feet, looking to try and get right back into it, but Ace won’t allow it. He asserts his almost 100 pound weight advantage and quickly sends Matsuda into the ropes. She bounces off the ropes and ducks a leaps frog from The Gambler, who then drops down as Matsuda comes off the opposite side and jumps over King, jumps to the middle rope and comes back with to catch Ace in the jaw with a springboard back elbow! Ace staggers back a few steps, but does not fall. Stephanie wastes no time though and quickly follows up by hitting the ropes behind Ace, running to the opposite ropes, jumping up to the top rope and coming off with a springboard moonsault! This connects and sends them both the mat with a loud THUD. Stephanie quickly shoots the half for a pin, but only gets a two count!

Aiello: Stephanie Matsuda is using her speed to get an early advantage here, but can only get a two count!

Both competitors back up now and Ace goes for a quick clothesline, but Stephanie ducks and locks in a waist lock, Ace feels around to try and break it, and with a quick elbow he does, but Matsuda grabs a wrist and turns it into a wrist lock! The crowd is supportive of the technical display being put on here, despite the extreme nature of the match. From the wrist lock she exchanges up to a headlock,but Ace quickly shoots her off to the ropes, this time following her and just as The War Queen turns to bounce off the rops Ace connects with a big clothesline that sends them both over the top and to the outside, but they both land on their feet and start exchanging punches to the head! The fans erupt now as the violence starts to escalate! Fist, fist, fist, fist, fist. That is all the is seen for about twenty or thirty seconds as neither person will give an inch. Finally after the seemingly never ending exchange, King throws an elbow instead of a fist and and catches Stephanie Matsuda off guard. Matsuda is down on a knee now as Ace takes advantage by reigning down stiff kicks to the chest of the War Queen! The loud THWACK of the impact is heard as each kick connects, but Stephanie Matsuda isn’t going down! Ace spins to deliver one more kick and Stephanie bends in half as she falls to the concrete from the force of the kick! She quickly bends back to her knees and looks Ace dead in the eyes as she lets loose a massive war cry that gets the crowd cheering even more! King, not to be deterred, takes two steps back and then levels Matsuda with a dropkick!

Aiello: Ace king taking control now as it’s clear that the honeymoon is over and both these wrestlers mean business!

Bennett: Get to the weapons already! This is the X-Division dammit!

Ace grabs Stephanie by the hair and up to her feet. He tosses her back into the ring under the bottom rope as he follows behind. Ace then notices the can full of weapons laying on the other side of the ring. He looks at it and then looks at the crowd for a moment as a smile crosses his face. The Vegas fans pop for their hometown son as he points at the trash can as he walks over and pulls the kendo stick out of the trash can. He looks at it a moment, then looks to Stephanie Matsuda who is getting to her feet now, before he rears back and lets fly that hard Singapore cane and the CRACK! Can be heard over the roar of the crowd as it connects to the back of The War Queen. Ace feeds off the crowd as he connects with another shot to the back of Stephanie Matsuda, and then another….and then another and then one more before the kendo stick breaks over the back of the downed Matsuda. Ace takes another moment to look at the broken kendo stick before he smacks himself in the head with it!

Carter: What in the hell has gotten into Ace King?! He just hit HIMSELF with the broken kendo stick.

Aiello: I think he may have snapped.. Is Ace bleeding from the forehead?!

A slow, small trickle of blood begins to run down the face of The X-Division champion as he finally tosses a side the broken bamboo. He goes back to the can full of weapons and empties it out it out onto the mat, then take the trash can in his hand and turns to strike the downed opponent but Stephanie is on her knees and blocks the shot! She takes the quick moment to get to her feet and grabs the can from Ace’s hands as she quickly lays a shot right to the head of Ace with the trash can! THe can doesn’t bend though and Steph lays into the Gambler again, but again the can doesn’t bend. Matsuda decides to use that to her advantage and puts the can over the head of Ace King! She quickly scans the ring, looking for what else she can use here and all she can find is the cheese grater! She quickly rushes over to it and picks it up in hand. This is not some small grater either, it’s one of those big industrial size ones! Matsuda grabs it in her hand hand and starts shoving it THROUGH the trash can seemingly as she hits it over and over again. After five to six shots she drops the object as her hand is now bleeding from the pressure of her flesh connecting with the sharp metal of the cheese grater.

Aiello: OH MY GOD! How ridiculously irresponsible do you have to be to make yourself bleed on a cheese grater?!

Carter: This is what the X-Division title means to the two! Ace King drew his own blood and Matsuda just took her own blood trying to inflict more punishment! This is what we came to see!

Matsuda now sizes up her opponent, steps back and rolls Yatzee! (super kick) Ace crumples to the floor and shakes out of the trash can as Matsuda goes for the pin…

ONE...

TWO…

TH-KICKOUT!

Ace King kicks out at two and the match continues. Matsuda back to her feet quickly, shakes off her bleeding hand, wiping her hand on her tights to rid it of the blood for now. She takes King by the head and gets him back to his feet, then she heads to the ropes and comes back delivering a sling blade! She tries to follow up by getting Ace up for another move but he quickly tosses her hands aside and delivers a blue mist to the face of Stephanie Matsuda!

Aiello: That’s Stephanie Matsuda’s Blasian Mist!!!!!

Carter: Dealer’s Choice! Ace takes one of Stephanie’s signature moves and uses it against her!

Ace takes quick advantage of the moment and grabs the trash can, setting it just behind Matsuda who is still trying to clear her eyes from the mist, he then grabs Stephanie by the head, puts it between his legs and hits the Wild Card (Panama Sunrise) ON THE TRASH CAN! He holds onto the legs for the pin…

ONE…

TWO…

THREE!!!!!!

DING DING DING

Stroup: The Winner of this match…. AND STILL the EWC X-Division Champion…. ACE…..KKKKKIIIIIIIIINGGGG

As soon as the bell rings, Ace rolls to the outside as he is handed his X-Division title. He takes it and walks up the ramp and to the back.

Aiello: Ace King has retained his X-Division championship here in Las Vegas, but he didn’t even try to absorb the win before he just went right to the backstage area… What is up with that?!

Bennett: I don’t know, but I respect the swagger there from Ace King!

Carter: This was a very back and forth match folks, it really could have gone either way, but in the end Ace King got literally had the ace up his sleeve by using Stephanie Matsuda’s own Blasian Mist against her and it allowed him to hit the Wild Card for the win!

Aiello: Well the era of Ace King as the face of the X-Division is certainly underway here, but folks we are out of time! Thank you for tuning in and don't forget this Wednesday LIVE On Pay-Per-View FSW Presents: UPRISING 20 in Cancun, Mexico! For Steve Bennett and Max Carter I am Joe Aiello. See you next time EWC Nation!

As the show is about to end, the camera cuts to the back to see Ace King heading back towards his locker room. Suddenly, a hand reaches out and grabs him by the arm. He looks down at the hand and then back up towards whomever it is. The two of them stare at each other before, finally, Ace smirks.

King: We doing this?

The camera finally pans over and sees Dominic Sanders standing there with a smirk on his face. He nods and extends his hand. Ace grabs it and he and Sanders shake hands.

Sanders: We're doing this.

The camera focuses on their handshake as the show ends.

END SCREEN

..........

MATCH WRITERS

..........

GAMBIT: MNB
MATCH ONE: David Miller
MATCH TWO: MNB
MATCH THREE: @saunders
MATCH FOUR: MNB
MATCH FIVE: Gabrielle Visconty
MATCH SIX: Jackson Krease
MATCH SEVEN: Xavier Reid
MAIN EVENT: PARAMOUNT

..........

SEGMENTS

..........

David Miller
Ace King
@saunders
Russ (Scorpio)
Nikolai Holmes
Dominic Sanders
Xavier Reid

..........

RECAP OF WINNERS

..........

GAMBIT
Tank
VS Stormy Taggert (N/S)
WINNER via pinfall: Tank

MATCH 1
David Scott
VS "La Belicista" Isabella
WINNER via pinfall: David Scott

MATCH 2
"Blessed" Justin Paird (N/S) (PINNED)
VS Callie Clark
VS Milenko
WINNER via pinfall: Callie Clark

MATCH 3
Mag Hyperion
VS Bosa
WINNER via pinfall: Bosa

MATCH 4
Samantha "Titaness" Hamilton (PINNED)
VS Chuck Gacy
VS Alexander Cage
WINNER via pinfall: Chuck Gacy

MATCH 5
Darius
VS Gabrielle Visconty
WINNER via cage escape: Gabrielle Visconty

MATCH 6
The Journeymen
VS NSFW
WINNER via pinfall: NSFW

MATCH 7
Xavier Reid
VS Clay Byrd (N/S)
WINNER via pinfall: Xavier Reid

MAIN EVENT
FOR THE X-DIVISION CHAMPIONSHIP
Stephanie "Cloud" Matsuda
VS Ace King
WINNER via pinfall (AND STILL X-DIVISION CHAMPION): Ace King

BRAWL #554 MVP: NSFW

BRAWL #554 MATCH OF THE NIGHT: Darius VS Gabrielle Visconty

..........

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EWC CEO, FOUNDER & PRESIDENT @adminEWC VICE PRESIDENTS @fnr | @fswEWC COMMISSIONER @mnbMNB SHOWRUNNER @mnbFN'R SHOWRUNNER @fnrPARAMOUNT SHOWRUNNER @fswPRIME SHOWRUNNER @primeNEXTGEN SHOWRUNNER @nextgen

EWC CEO, FOUNDER & PRESIDENT @admin

EWC VICE PRESIDENTS @fnr | @fsw

EWC COMMISSIONER @mnb

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ASSISTANT TO THE GM Carlos Ruiz

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GENERAL MANAGER Jordan SharpeEXECUTIVE ASSISTANT TO THE GM Faith Rivers PLAY BY PLAY Eric Mason COLOR John Livingston ANNOUNCER Damon Reid INTERVIEWER Joe Danes SENIOR REFEREE Niklaus Forbes REFEREE Stefan Elliot REFEREE Jessika Smalls

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MNB #554 - LAS VEGAS

Post by MNB on Apr 28, 2020 3:13:14 GMT -6

EWC CEO, FOUNDER & PRESIDENT
@admin
EWC VICE PRESIDENTS
@fnr | @fsw
EWC COMMISSIONER
@mnb
MNB SHOWRUNNER
@mnb
FN'R SHOWRUNNER
@fnr
PARAMOUNT SHOWRUNNER
@fsw
PRIME SHOWRUNNER
@prime
NEXTGEN SHOWRUNNER
@nextgen

EWC CEO, FOUNDER & PRESIDENT
@admin

EWC VICE PRESIDENTS
@fnr | @fsw

EWC COMMISSIONER
@mnb

MNB SHOWRUNNER
@mnb

FN'R SHOWRUNNER
@fnr

PARAMOUNT SHOWRUNNER
@fsw

PRIME SHOWRUNNER
@prime

NEXTGEN SHOWRUNNER
@nextgen

GENERAL MANAGER
Jim Connors
ASSISTANT GM
Timothy Kahrs

PLAY BY PLAY
Joe Aiello

COLOR
Steve Bennett

ANNOUNCER
Jessica Stroup

INTERVIEWER
Bob Murray

SENIOR REF
Paul Turner

REFEREE
Josh Daniels

GENERAL MANAGER
Jim Connors

ASSISTANT GM
Timothy Kahrs

PLAY BY PLAY
Joe Aiello

GENERAL MANAGER
Grizzly Duggan
ASSISTANT TO THE GM
Carlos Ruiz

PLAY BY PLAY
Koala Duggan

COLOR
Polar Duggan

ANNOUNCER
Emmanuelle Chriqui

INTERVIEWER
Brian Spade and Candice Tweed

SENIOR REFEREE
Toyo Yasahiro

REFEREE
Mike Michaelson

REFEREE
Pierce Patterson

GENERAL MANAGER
Grizzly Duggan

ASSISTANT TO THE GM
Carlos Ruiz

PLAY BY PLAY
Koala Duggan

GENERAL MANAGER
Chris Brock

PLAY BY PLAY
Tim Watson

COLOR
Cid Sydney

ANNOUNCER
Isabella Starr

INTERVIEWER
Lisa Goldrush

REFEREE
Matt Mercer

REFEREE
Jesse Lizarraga

GENERAL MANAGER
Chris Brock

PLAY BY PLAY
Tim Watson

GENERAL MANAGER
Jordan Sharpe
EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT TO THE GM
Faith Rivers

PLAY BY PLAY
Eric Mason

COLOR
John Livingston

ANNOUNCER
Damon Reid

INTERVIEWER
Joe Danes

SENIOR REFEREE
Niklaus Forbes

REFEREE
Stefan Elliot

REFEREE
Jessika Smalls

GENERAL MANAGER
Jordan Sharpe

EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT TO THE GM
Faith Rivers

PLAY BY PLAY
Eric Mason

PLAY BY PLAY
Marcus Woo

COLOR
Valentina Gomez

ANNOUNCER
Nina Dobrev

INTERVIEWER
Ace Heart & Pepper Montana

SENIOR REFEREE
Toyo Yasahiro

REFEREE 1
John Dean

REFEREE 2
Niklaus Forbes

PLAY BY PLAY
Marcus Woo

If you’d like to contribute to the running costs of the EWC please send a donation to: paypal.me/ewc4life
Please remember, this is a gift from you to the EWC and isn’t based on any service, business or is required of you