Paramount Wrestling Presents: UPRISING XXII
Apr 27, 2022 16:05:42 GMT -6
Timothy Deacon, Xavier Reid, and 2 more like this
Post by PARAMOUNT on Apr 27, 2022 16:05:42 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 its producers must insist that no one attempt to recreate or re-enact any match or activity performed in this live event.
PARAMOUNT PRESENTS
UPRISING XXII
Brought to you by Under Armour, PS5, Dr Pepper and Corsair Gaming
Airing LIVE! on EWC NETWORK, DISH, Verizon FIOS TV, & XFINITY
“For The Glory” by All Good Things begins to blast over the arena speakers as our feed comes to life...
“KETTEI-DA: THE MOST DANGEROUS MOVE IN THE GAME ”
“JORDAN SHARPE IS PARAMOUNT”
“THE WICKED SHALL PREVAIL TONIGHT”
“I'M HERE TO SEE THE ANGELS TONIGHT! HALO SYNDICATE 4LIFE!”
“IM READY FOR AN UPRISING!”
Airing LIVE! on EWC NETWORK, DISH, Verizon FIOS TV, & XFINITY
UPRISING XXII
April 28th 2022
Commentators: Tim Watson, Cid Sydney
Announcer: Isabella Starr
Correspondent: Lisa Goldrush
Referees: Matt Mercer & Jesse Lizarraga
“For The Glory” by All Good Things begins to blast over the arena speakers as our feed comes to life...
The music fills Ben Hill Griffen Stadium in Gainesville, Florida as a video starts to play on the giant X-Tron above the stage for tonight's event. A montage detailing many of the historic events that have taken place in the three year history of the UPRISING PPV. From The debut of Wes Walker at the USS KIDD Invitational, the return of the North American championship in a ladder match that Kyle Gautier won, Melody Malone Vs Stitches Vs Robbie Rayder for the FSW Championship, Wes Walker as North American Champion facing off against Kyle Gautier and then clips of Candy Versus Stitches in Carnival Carnage before moving to clips of last years Uprising showing Marcu$ $t. John beating Darius in a no hold bared match, David Miller retaining the CW Broadcast championship over Jake Lumas, and Ace King standing tall with the EWC Undisputed championship and Stitches with the EWC X-Division Championship.
As Pyro starts to go off the fans in Gainesville, Florida are on their feet! The video then starts highlighting some of the current roster of Paramount Wrestling such as, Marcu$ $t. John, Emma Louise, Robbie Rayder, Asriel Buzzard, Adriana Aquilla, Nevaeh, Faith Rivers, Shaker Jones, The Hawaiian Hunters, and the Halo Syndicate. . The final images shown is a montage of James Keaton, the CW Broadcast Championship around his waist, Jordan Sharpe with the North American championship high in the air, The Southern Express with Bunny Love, the EWC World Tag Team Championships over each shoulder, El-Pablo swimming in a pool of Skittles, the EWC X-Division championship diagonal across his chest, and then Killjoy Ito with the Buddy Love, the EWC Undisputed championship proudly around his waist.
Back inside Ben Hill Griffen Stadium, the crowd is absolutely electric now as spotlights circle around the stadium as the thousands of fans in attendance are shown in a wide angle shot. The camera then pans back out showing a full-scale view of the jam-packed stadium and zooms in on some crazy fans. The crowd is rowdy, chanting the company's namesake at such a loud volume that it's a wonder that the music can be heard at all. The camera begins to get some shots of the various signs that they have brought tonight:
“KETTEI-DA: THE MOST DANGEROUS MOVE IN THE GAME ”
“JORDAN SHARPE IS PARAMOUNT”
“THE WICKED SHALL PREVAIL TONIGHT”
“I'M HERE TO SEE THE ANGELS TONIGHT! HALO SYNDICATE 4LIFE!”
“IM READY FOR AN UPRISING!”
Fireworks emit outside the building and then all around the ring while a fog machine covers the arena in an Orange and White haze! Fans stand up, pumping their fists and raising signs as the camera feed pans to each one of them. As the camera comes back into the arena, "Remember the Name" by Fort Minor is playing as Chris Brock is already in the ring, microphone in hand:
Brock: GAINESVILLE, FLORIDA!!!!
The fans cheer loudly for the hometown pop.
Brock: You know, I grew up about five hours down the road in West Palm Beach, and my whole life all I ever wanted to do was being a professional wrestler. When I got my big break in Philadelphia, never in my wildest dreams would I have imagined that one day I would be standing in a stadium that holds ninety THOUSAND people in it, I would have called you crazy, but now that I am here for my FOURTH season as a GM in EWC and now my THIRD brand exclusive Pay Per View, I can honestly say that nothing surprises me anymore.
Brock allows a moment to pass before continuing, the GM trying to contain his happiness.
Brock: But enough about that, you didn't come here tonight to hear me kiss all your asses! You came here to watch people FIGHT!!!!
The crowd pops at this.
Brock: And we all know that if you want to FIGHT, then all roads come through the Pinnacle of Professional Wrestling, Paramount!!!
More cheers from the crowd.
Brock: You want tag team action? Well the EWC WORLD Tag Team Champions, The Southern Express, call Paramount their home. You want to see a workhorse? Well then we have the CW Broadcast championship, which by the way has NEVER changed hands in a match. You want some of the best PURE wrestling on the planet? The EWC North American Championship has a lineage that bests almost any other championship in the business. You want to see people beat the shit out of each other with weapons? Then The EWC X-Division and its champion are where its at, and that is right here on the Orange brand! You want to watch the most prestigious prize in professional wrestling? Then you watch this show because the EWC Undisputed Championship is on... you guessed it, right here.
The crowd is getting riled up now.
Brock: And as always, it's because this ain't Monday Night Brawl, This ain't Friday Night Rampage, this DAMN SURE isn't PRIME, and I damn sure ain't that scumbag Victor Price! No no no, THIS.... IS PARAMOUNT.... WWRRRRESTLING!!!! And tonight, there will be an UPRISING!!!!!!
The fans go crazy as the GM of Paramount exits the ring and hands the microphone to ring announcer Isabella Starr. The camera cuts to the announce table for this evening as Tim Watson and Cid Sydney are standing by!
Watson: Well, that certainly is one way to start the show. Welcome to the Swamp here in Gainesville, Florida, this is PARAMOUNT wrestling's brand specific extravaganza.. This! is UPRISING XXII. I am Tim Watson and with me as always is Cid Sydney.
Sydney: It's great to be here tonight Tim. We have 5 HUGE matches tonight, Two title matches and three matches that all have title implications.
Watson: That's right Cid. Our big Main Event will see Jordan Sharpe take on the CW Broadcast Champion, "The Wicked' James Keaton, with the North American title on the line!
Sydney: Then in the semi-main event, the EWC UNDISPUTED Championship is up for grabs as the winner of the Drake Memorial cup, Asriel Buzzard, will take on teh Ace of EWC, Killjoy Ito!
Watson: If that is not enough, Marcu$ $t. John continues his shot at redemption as he looks to secure the #1 contendership to the North American Championship when he takes on Nevaeh! We also have Johnny Maelstrom taking on Adriana Aquilla for a future CW Broadcast Championship opportunity and our Opening bout, which will see the Hawaiian Hunters take on the Halo Syndicate for the right to challenge the EWC World Tag Team Champions, the Southern Express, at Paramount 19!
Sydney: We have so much more beyond that but first we are going to hear all about EWCTV! We'll be right back!
Watson: If that is not enough, Marcu$ $t. John continues his shot at redemption as he looks to secure the #1 contendership to the North American Championship when he takes on Nevaeh! We also have Johnny Maelstrom taking on Adriana Aquilla for a future CW Broadcast Championship opportunity and our Opening bout, which will see the Hawaiian Hunters take on the Halo Syndicate for the right to challenge the EWC World Tag Team Champions, the Southern Express, at Paramount 19!
Sydney: We have so much more beyond that but first we are going to hear all about EWCTV! We'll be right back!
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Marcu$ gets out of his limousine and is greeted by two groups of people. One side is booing the crap out of him and the other has signs and t-shirts with his face on them. He looks around at both parties and smiles while soaking in both the heckles and the adulation that he is receiving from both sides of the spectrum. He walks over to the fans that were booing first and flashes a big grin on his face.
M$J: Yall are booing me and that’s fine. Yall paid hard earned money to voice your opinion as you should be able to do. I respect it and I like it. Boo me, loathe me, despise me its only going to make me go harder and harder in that ring. You don’t have to like me but when I step in that ring tonight, are you going to cheer Nevaeh instead? Let’s be serious for a moment. I am the lifeline of Paramount Wrestling. I don’t say that to boast or even mean it as a humble brag. Every time you turn to the CW Network to watch us, you will see Marcu$ $t. John. You will see me laying it all on the line each and every time we appear on your television. No matter the opponent, no matter the placement on the card, I’m giving it my all to give each and every one of you something to boo. Something to consistently point your anger towards. I’m not asking for your appreciation, but I will earn your respect.
He winks at the negative portion of the crowd and then starts slowly walking towards the more friendly side. He can still hear some boos behind him but a lot of people had stopped and were now just silent form the side he just left. He stands in front of the cheering fans who only got louder the closer that he got to them. He gives a couple of high fives and signs a few autographs before speaking to them now.
M$J: While I haven’t always had this amount of support, I want to thank everyone for voicing their opinions just like I did with those people over there. Whether cheering or booing, the worst outcome would have been to come out of that vehicle to nothing but silence. I appreciate the support, even when I haven’t been on my best behavior. Your chants, your cheers make me want to keep going. Keep getting better and I for one appreciate each and everyone of you. You looked past the inexperience I once had, the money that I obtained, and the evil deeds that have been done. I once won the North American Title and shocked the world. Well, this is the start to me winning it again but first I have to get through a formidable opponent, a former champion, but most importantly, I’m going to do this the right way. Let’s start the path of making history, TOGETHER!
M$J leaves the positive side of the fans as they go into a frenzy at his words and starts heading towards the entrance to get into the stadium. Before he walks in, he turns around and looks directly into the camera.
M$J: Nevaeh, make no mistake about. I want to make something clear to you. You say I’m having morality issues and you’re the one that knows who you truly are. When that bell rings, I’m going to look you in your eyes I’m going to smile and I’m going to morally beat the hell out of you. When the ref raises my hand in victory, you will know who you are. A footnote on my path to being legendary. You can take that to the bank and ca$h it!!!
He turns back around and confidently walks in to get ready for his match.
The camera cuts backstage inside The Love Club’s locker room where we find The Record Breaking…History Making…EWC Tag Team Champions of the World, Bobby Rose and Jimmy Lane unbuttoning their shirts…
Rose: And you know for a fact that the girls are here…
Love: YES, the Paramount intern just texted me and said ‘the girls from Alpha Pi have arrived and he’s taking them to their seats now’...
The voice of Bunny Love can be heard from off camera as she is around the corner getting ready herself.
Lane: And the seats are good…
Jimmy asks as he removes his shirt and places it into his locker.
Love: Front row like you asked…
Jimmy pumps his fist as Bobby puts his shirt on a hanger and pulls out the standard referee shirt that the Paramount Staff left for him.
Rose: We want tonight to go perfect for the girls Bunny…
Jimmy nods as he pulls his referee’s shirt over his head and tucks it into his wrestling tights.
Lane: Because…
But before he can finish Bunny Love comes walking around the corner in her custom referee’s outfit.
Love: Because if things go well for them here, then things will go really well for you two later in the hotel room…I got it, this isn’t my first time hooking up your skanks with VIP treatment…what…
Bunny stops and looks at Bobby and Jimmy as their mouths drop open and they stare at her.
Love: WHAT…
Rose: What the hell is that…
Bobby points at her as Jimmy shakes his head.
Lane: That looks brand new…
Bunny smiles as she looks at herself in the mirror.
Love: It is…custom made if I’m being honest with you…
Rose: What the fuck…they make you THAT and we…
Lane: We get stuck with these old things…they smell like…
Rose: They haven’t been washed since Paramount #001…
Bobby tosses his referee's shirt on the bench as Jimmy pulls his away from his chest as someone knocks on the door and Paramount’s Lisa Goldrush peaks her head into the locker room with her hand over her eyes…
Goldrush: Everyone decent…Jimmy are you wearing pants this time…
Love: Everyone is clothed…you’re safe…
Lisa removes her hand and looks around, mostly to make sure Jimmy isn’t going to surprise her with his ‘one eyed snake’ on a leash prank again and walks into The Love Club Locker room.
Goldrush: Looking good guys…wow Bunny, you look amazing…
Love: I know right, Xavier is going to…
But she stops short remembering what happened to Lisa at Paramount #018 with her and Xavier…
Love: Lisa, I’m…
But Lisa holds up her hand, cutting Bunny off.
Goldrush: Please…I don’t want to talk about it…
Love: I’m going to make him find you tonight and apologize to you for…
Goldrush: NO…please, just keep him away from me Bunny…please…I don’t want to deal with it or him tonight…please…
Bunny nods as Lisa looks at a shirtless Bobby and Jimmy, who is smelling the pits of his shirt
Goldrush: This must be really strange for the two of you, last year you walked out of Uprising fresh off a win over The Xtreme Ravagers with the MVP Bonus in hand and this year…
Rose:They put us in these stinky referee shirts and…
Lane: Deciding the outcome of a match that will name the team we face at Paramount #019 for these EWC Tag Team Championship…
Goldrush: Quite a difference a year makes…
Rose: But that’s ok Lisa because we have been tasked with this job and we will do it to the best of our…oh hold up, it’s the girls…
Bobby reaches for his phone that is playing the Florida Gators fight song as Jimmy tries to peak at the screen…
Lane: What did they say…have they had any drinks…is Maisie wearing panties…
Lisa looks at Bunny who just smiles and shakes her head.
Love: The boys invited dates to Uprising but I can assure you that they will be taking tonight’s job seriously out there. The Halo Syndicate and The Hawaiian Hunters have an important match out there tonight and like Bobby said, the winner will face us for the EWC Tag Team Championships at Paramount #019 in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada on May 11th so we are not going to dick around out there are we boys…boys…
But Bobby and Jimmy are too busy looking at the pictures the girls sent them to answer their manager…
Love: Well, see this is what happens when you give the boys the night off, it’s like when sailors come to port…they only have one thing on their minds but I can assure you…they will take tonight seriously…
Bobby and Jimmy high five as they start looking at a few of the pictures that are too spicy even for the ppv as Bunny nods and Lisa shakes her head.
TAG TEAM SHOWCASE MATCH
Winner becomes number 1 contenders to the EWC World Tag Team Championships
Winner becomes number 1 contenders to the EWC World Tag Team Championships
The Hawaiian Hunters
Vs The Halo Syndicate
Match Writer: Bear and Grace
Match Writer: Bear and Grace
We return to ringside where Bobby Rose and Jimmy Lane are standing in the ring wearing referee shirts with Bunny Love also wearing a referee shirt.
Watson: Some strong words there from Marcu$ $t. John, but The Southern Express are here folks and they look ready to call the action in our opening contest!!
Sydney: How can they call this down the middle when their eyes are on those coeds in the front row?
Starr: The following match is a tag team showcase and it's scheduled for one fall. Joining us first, from Tampa, Florida, weighing in at a combined 560 pounds, the team of Jack and David Hunter... THE HAWAIIAN HUNTERS!
"Helena Beat" by Foster the People is quick to hit the PA. As the intro starts to build, David Hunter is the first to step onto the stage in his standard wrestling trunks and Hawaiian shirt. He's got a smirk on his face as he approaches center right. Once the verse starts, Jack Hunter is right behind up in tighter and longer wrestling pants and his own Hawaiian shirt. The two share a quick look before meeting forearms in a symbol of unity. David lets his smirk shine as the duo make their way down the ramp. David looks to the fans, ignoring their outreached hands as he methodically steps down the ramp. Jack is more focused, his eyes bouncing around the fans in the arena, but otherwise giving them no attention.
Once they reach ringside, the two separate. David looks at the steps before turning around and hopping onto the apron. He steps onto the nearby second and top rope, looking out at the hard camera. Jack is right behind him, standing in front of his son and glaring down the hard cam himself. The two nod in unison before David hops into the ring. Jack enters through the top and middle ropes. They find their corner and remove their Hawaiian shirts. Once ready, Jack does a few more stretches before awaiting the bell.
Starr: And their opponent, being accompanied by Brittany Ann Baker, from Dallas, Texas, weighing in at a combined 247 pounds the team of Carrie and Nina Samson... THE HALO SYNDICATE!
The opening chords of "Want to Want Me" suddenly begins to play as purple, blue and yellow lights begin dancing around the arena. Carrie and Nina Samson step through the curtains with their blonde friend right beside them. The blonde walks halfway down the ramp, stops and turns to face Carrie and Nina while holding two very large cannons. Carrie and Nina walks towards her and proceeds to take each cannon into their hands. The sisters do a countdown then fires a bunch of confetti all over the crowd. Carrie and Nina bounce their way down the ramp as their friend slides into the ring. Nina high fives several audience members in the front row before hopping up onto the apron. Carrie does a lap before hopping up next to her sister. They both leap over the top rope, high five their friend before climbing up onto the turnbuckles. While standing there, their friend hands them both a small confetti cannon. All three ladies fire off their cannons then Nina and Carrie both connect with backflips off the turnbuckles.
Watson: The Hunters look ready to shake off that loss from Paramount 18 but the Halos look ready to make a statement here tonight.
DING DING DING
Nina and Carrie are discussing strategy when David and Jack blasts them with a barrage of punches. Jack grabs Carrie by the hair and tosses her out of the ring. Carrie lands hard on the padded floor as Jack and David start to double team Nina in the corner. Bunny Love is trying to get Bobby and Jimmy to do something but they are busy. Bunny shakes her head and slides into the ring. She runs toward the corner and tells David and Jack to back off. They hold their hands up while high fiving each other. The crowd is letting them know how uncool they are as Bunny checks on Nina.
Nina smiles before shooting out of the corner. She ducks a clothesline attempt and sends Jack out of the ring with a single leg dropkick. Jack tumbles down as Davis looks confused. Nina quickly uses the ropes to spring off of and catches David in a Japanese style armdrag. David goes twenty feet across the ring as Nina follows it up a sliding knee. She doesn't go for the pin as she brings him back up to a vertical base. She goes to shoot him off the ropes but he counters with a short arm forearm. The shot staggers Nina as he drags her towards his corner. That's when Jack tags back into the match. Jack and David pull Nina out of the corner only to slam her right back into the turnbuckle. Bunny is telling them to get Nina out of the corner. Jack places his arms underneath Nina and throws her ten feet in front of him. He then follows it up with a hard shot to the back. Jack picks her up, brings back towards the corner. Meanwhile Carrie in her corner trying to urge her sister on while starting a chant "Nina!"
Watson: The crowd here in Gainesville is very clear on who they are behind, despite the Hunters being from Tampa!!!!
Sydney: Yea, why are they called the "Hawaiian" Hunters when they are most famous for their work here in Florida?
The chant starts getting louder as Jack continues to punish Nina in the corner. He tags David back in as the duo starts putting the boots to her. Jack steps out of the ring as David is holding both of Nina's legs in the air. David yanks her up into the air before catching her and driving her back down across his knee. Nina lets out a grunt as David tags Jack back into the match. Jack picks Nina up off the canvas and places her against the ropes. Both he and David shoots Nina off toward the other side. As her back hits the ropes, Carrie blind tags herself in but remains on the apron. Nina ducks a double clothesline as Carrie comes springing off the ropes and strikes with dropkick using one foot for of them. They both fall as Carrie quickly pops back up to her feet. She quickly springs off the ropes and lands a moonsault across Jack's body. Carrie is gripping her midsection before picking David up off the canvas and planting him face first with a DDT. She quickly gets Jack out of the ring by connecting with a baseball slide.
As Carrie makes her back towards David, she gets caught in a small package as Bunny slides into position.
ONE...
TW....
Carrie kicks out before the count of two as David quickly rises back up to his feet. Carrie is back up as well. They look at each other. David goes for a tie up which Carrie ducks out of the way and lands a couple stiff kicks to his thigh and hamstring. David wences as Carrie catches his leg in a leg scissors before taking him down and takes control of his leg. She drags him over towards her corner where Nina tags back in and picks up the other leg. In one fluid motion, Carrie and Nina roll forward before slamming David hard onto the back of his head. Carrie rolls out of the ring as Nina takes both legs, wraps them around her own leg before locking in a Sharpshooter on David. David screams out in pain as Nina is pulling down the kneepad and sinches the hold in deeper.
Watson: Nina has that sharpshooter locked in tight, will David Hunter tap here?
Sydney: Not even close, Tim. These guys are veterans. It will take WAY more than that to make David Hunter tap out!
Bunny is checking to make sure David wants to continue. Nina continues to have the hold locked in as David starts to crawl towards the ring ropes. Before he could reach for the ropes, Jack blasts Nina in the back of the head with a soccer style kick. The kick causes Nina to fall forward as Jack drags David over towards the ropes and tags himself into the match. Nina is grabbing the back of her head as Jack grabs a hand full of hair and pulls her up. Nina's eyes are starting to water as Jack flings her across the ring. Jack shows off his amazing agility as he runs toward Nina, slides out of the ring, grabs ahold of her ankle and slams her hard onto the padding. Nina grimaces in pain as Jack picks her up and slams her face first into the ring post. Jimmy sees the action getting close as he politely tells Jack to get back inside the ring. Jack holds his hand up like surrendering before picking up Nina and throwing her right next to Southern Express and their coeds. Bunny Love has already counted up to five as Jack gets back into the ring. He orders Bunny to continue counting.
SIX...
SEVEN...
EIGHT...
Nina slowly starts to stir as Bobby and Jimmy watch as Jack celebrating a countout victory.
NINE...
Just Bunny is about to say ten, Nina rolls herself back into the ring as blood is starting to trinkle down her face.
Watson: Nina showing the ring awareness to get back in the ring, despite the crimson mask!!!
Sydney: The amount of resolve that both of the Samsons are showing here tonight is unprecedented!!!
Jack turns around to see Nina slowly getting up to her feet. A look of anger comes across him as he charges at her. Nina ducks underneath him but he catches her by the ankle. Nina pushes herself back up to her feet as Jack is still holding her ankle. Nina spins her free foot around and catches Jack behind the ear. Jack staggers a little as Nina charges at him. He catches her around the waist pops her up in the air but as he goes to catch her. She comes down with her legs wrapped around his neck and sends him face first into the turnbuckle.
Nina is catching her breath as David comes running into the ring and nearly turns her inside out. Jack smiles as he crawls over for a cover.
ONE...
TWO...
TRE....
Nina just rolls the shoulder up as David hops over the ropes and lands on the apron. David is motioning for Jack to pick Nina up. Jack does just that as Bobby and Jimmy turn to see Jack picking Nina up and turning her upside down. Carrie sees what is happening as she runs around the opposite side and tries to get inside the ring. Bunny gets in her way as the two start to argue.
David is looking to leap but doesn't see Brittany put a banana peel on the ring ropes. Right as David leaps up onto the ring ropes, he slips and falls face first onto the canvas. Bunny turns around as Brittany is standing next to the guardrail and David rolls out of the ring.
Jack lifts Nina up who reaches out and slaps him as hard as she can. The slap causes him to drop her as Carrie comes springing off the ropes and connects with a dropkick. Jack staggers as Carrie gets behind him. Right as he turns around she grabs him by the legs and they connect with Confetti Surprise. As Jack bounces off Nina's knees, Carrie comes flying off the ropes and connects with a suicide dive which knocks David back into the barricade. Nina looks down at Jack, lifts him before locking in a modified version of Night, Night. Nina applies more pressure as Jack has no choice but to tap.
DING DING DING
Starr: And your winner, via submission THE HALO SYNDICATE!
Nina instantly releases the hold "Want to want me" starts playing again. Nina quickly rolls out of the ring as she met at the bottom of the ramp by Carrie and Brittany. Bobby and Jimmy show the girls some respect as they slowly walk up the ramp. Meanwhile David is back in the ring as Jack is slowly getting up.
Watson: Say what you will about The Halo Syndicate but tonight they proved once again they are among the elite tag teams here in EWC. I hope big things happen for them.
Sydney: I wouldn't call them elite just yet. Tonight they were impressive but so was The Hawaiian Hunters. Paramount 19 is going to be interesting.
Watson: That's right, at Paramount #19 they have a date with the record breaking, history making EWC World Tag Team Champions, The Southern Express!!!
Sydney: And this was just the opening contest, We have so much more to come tonight!!!!
Camera cuts to ...
The camera cuts backstage inside Ben Hill Griffin Stadium to find ‘The Memphis Mouthpiece’ Tommy Love holding a microphone with a giant smile on his face as the Paramount fans boo the legendary manager. Clearly being able to hear the boos and wanting to fuck with those in attendance Tommy shakes his head and points at his ear as if he can’t hear them which just makes the fans boo louder and louder as Tommy continues to act like he can’t hear the response…finally he perks up and gives them a thumbs up before flipping them the bird and laughing…
Love: You stupid idiots, do you really think I give a rat’s ass what you think of me? I didn’t care in 1988 when you brain dead morons tried to run me out of Florida and I sure as hell don’t care now…so…
Tommy raises his other hand and gives the fans of Gainesville the double bird.
Love: Now, I’m not going to lie to you idiots, I wasn’t given the warmest welcome when I showed up here tonight by the boys of Paramount…seems they are still holding a grudge for that unfortunate incident at Paramount #018 when Adriana Aquila provoked Xavier Reid after the match…the match where he beat her clean right there in that ring yet the idiot referee reversed Xavier’s win and gave it to Adriana in a clear home field advantage…I guess that’s the type of brand Chris Brock runs here in the EWC…
Tommy shrugs his shoulders and rolls his eyes.
Love: I would appeal to the Board of Directors but it seems Chris Brock has the Board by the balls so some good that would do us but here we are anyways at Paramount’s Uprising where we requested some on-air time but Lisa Goldrush was just ‘too busy’ to do her job so here I am, doing it for her and if I had to say…doing it ten times better than she ever could…so, idiots of Florida, put your hands together for GREATNESS and welcome back the EWC International Champion XAVIER REID!!!
The fans boo even louder than they did for Tommy as the camera pulls back to show Xavier standing next to his manager with a satisfied smirk on his face.
Reid: Really…that’s the welcome back you are going to give me…after everything I did for this place…do you people forget what Paramount was built from…those three letters that laid the groundwork for Paramount to even become a third brand here in the EWC…
Xavier leans towards the camera and whispers…
Reid: The FSW…
Xavier stands back up and smiles.
Reid: I helped define the FSW and allowed it to become more than just a ‘developmental’ brand…people like me, Maggie and Megan were the pillars of the FSW and allowed them to grow into Paramount…I had helped hand Chris Brock a diamond and this is the thanks I get…at Paramount #018 I bailed this place out when Mark Keaton was unable to show…I got on a plane and flew to Texas so they could have an opening match and Chris Brock gets upset because I got a little rough with one of his ‘stars’ and forces the Board of Directors to toss me into anger management…please…
Xavier rolls his eyes.
Reid: But to show I’m the bigger man and in accordance with the crap anger management staff I came here to Uprising to wish Adriana Aquilla the best of luck…
Xavier smiles and laughs.
Reid: I know you have an important match here tonight Gab…
Love: Addy…
Reid: Addy, best of luck tonight and know this kid…I’m rooting for you…
Xavier laughs as Tommy winks to the camera as it fades out.
SINGLES MATCH
Winner gets a future CW Broadcast Championship opportunity
Winner gets a future CW Broadcast Championship opportunity
Johnny Maelstrom
Vs Adriana Aquilla
Match Writer: @themiracle
Match Writer: @themiracle
We return to ringside where Tim Watson and Cid Sydney get ready to throw us over to the next match of the night.
Watson: Ladies and Gentlemen, that tag team match to kick off the show was off the charts hot and now we are about to dial the temperature up even higher!
Sydney: That’s right, Tim! We’re about to see two stars that are looking to get some momentum started for themselves as we see the experienced Johnny Maelstrom take on the young latina sensation Addy Aquilla!
Starr: The following match is a singles contest set for one fall, the winner earning a future shot at the CW Broadcast Championship! Joining us first, from THE PLEIADES, weighing in at 210 pounds ... ”THE MIRACLE” JOHNNY MAELSTROM!
The lights in the arena dim as the crowd quietens in anticipation of who is about to step through the curtain, immediately erupting in cheers when they hear “My Name Is Human” by Highly Suspect hit the speaker system. Fog machines and blue, orange and white strobe lights are in overdrive as “The Miracle” Johnny Maelstrom steps through the curtains, waving through the smoke and placing his right hand over his eyes, mask covering his mouth and hoodie over his head. Scoping the crowd out as they show approval for The One and Only. He spans from left to right… up and down and then shows love right back, patting his heart, kissing his hand and then pointing out towards the sea of EWC fans in the area, sealing it off with a big thumbs up and a round of applause from him to the fans.
Johnny then makes his way down the ramp slowly and confidently, bumping fists with each fan that throws their hands out along the way. He reaches the ring steps and gingerly makes his way to the apron, wiping the bottom of his shoes on it. He looks back at the hard cam as the crowd on that side pops! Then he points in front of him, prompting a pop from that side! He raises his right hand up to his ear and and the right side of the building responds followed finally by the left. Maelstrom steps into the ring as Highly Suspect continues to rock everyone’s ears off and starts hitting the ropes! Back and forth, back and forth with speed and precision as the crowd follows along, building in steam as they cheer Maelstrom along. He finally stops, sliding on his knees to the very center of the ring as he takes his hoodie off, rips the mask off of his face and raises his arms high, his index fingers extended and pointing to the heavens as fans throw out blue, orange and white streamers everywhere, covering Johnny Maelstrom, the ring and everyone else in it!!
Starr: And his opponent, from SAN ANTONIO, TEXAS, weighing in at 120 pounds ... ADRIANA AQUILA!!
The opening riff to "Iron" by Within Temptation hits the speakers and the crowd comes to their feet as the lights flash around the arena before finally, Adriana comes out from the back ready for her big match.
Starr: From San Antonio, Texas, she is "Lo Divino" Adriana Aquilla!
Adriana makes her way down to the ring mouthing the lyrics to her theme song along the way, as she enters the ring she removes her jacket before yelling out "THE WAR IS COMING" in time with her song before jumping over the top rope and rolling into the ring before posing on one knee with her arms outstretched at her sides.
Watson: So much on the line for these two here as they both look to get their careers heading back in the right direction and even more importantly, claim that guaranteed match for the CW Broadcast Championship! Here comes the bell, let’s get to the action!
DING DING DING
The match starts off hot with Maelstrom and Aquila going at it hot and heavy, back and forth with punches, kicks and backhand chops! Addy goes for a Superkick and Maelstrom catches her foot! He uses his free hand to wag his finger back and forwards telling Addy, “No, no no!” He uses his strength advantage and tosses Addy up in the air by her leg, Addy doing a perfect backflip in air and landing on her feet! But it’s too late, Maelstrom has hit the ropes and is coming back in at full force… RUNNING LARIAT! Addy spins around mid-air again from the impact of the move, this time landing on her back! Maelstrom hops on top of Addy, mounting her as he begins to lay into her face with punishing left after relentless right to her jaw. Addy, having no other course of action to escapes, knees Maelstrom in the groin! His face turns a mixed shade of purple and blue as he grabs his lower region in pain, falling onto his back right beside her.
Watson: THAT'S GOING TO HURT FOR A WHILE!
Sydney: Right int he Pills Tim!
The tables are turned as Addy is now the one mounting Johnny, completely dominating him as she thrusts hard into his face with each punch. He tries repeatedly to fight her off with no success, Addy now digging her nails into his eyes! He fights for dear life, shoving his fingers into her mouth trying to choke her, but Addy bites down!! Maelstrom withdraws his hand with a blood curdling scream as blood squirts all over the mat from his open wound.
Watson: Adriana Aquilla is proving that if you mess with fire, you WILL get burned!
Sydney: Johnny Maelstrom might be playing the part of Icarus here tonight folks!
Johnny flails about wildly until finally finding Aquila’s eyeballs, digging his fingernails as deep into them as possible! Addy falls back, clinching them in pain, both competitors now trying to fight their way back up and regain the advantage. Johnny is the first one up, running towards Addy with a loaded elbow which she quick-wittedly ducks, sending Johnny tumbling over the top rope and down to the mat on the outside! Addy looks to the crowd, who’s going wild. She hits the ropes…. AIR ADDY OVER THE TOP ROPE TO MAELSTROM ON THE OUTSIDE! With such force that send Maelstrom careening into the barricade, busting his forehead wide open to add to his growing collection of dripping wounds.
Sydney: OH MY GOD! Lo Dovino has cause so much damage to The Miracle here tonight, will he be able to continue, Cid?
Watson: He's got twenty years in this business Tim, if there is one thing that you learn over that time, it is how to keep pressing forward!
Addy isn’t letting up, grabbing Maelstrom by the hair and pulling him back up to his feet. She kicks the padded mat out of the way… DIVINE JUDGMENT ONTO THE CONCRETE! She quickly rolls into the ring as the ref begins to count Maelstrom out.
ONE...
TWO...
THREE...
FOUR...
FIVE...
On the outside, Johnny is starting to move his fingers, his eyes coming alive as he tries to shake off cobwebs, knowing an opportunity this big can’t go to waste. He begins to struggle to his feet as the fans cheer him on.
SIX...
SEVEN...
EIGHT...
Johnny makes it to his feet… but he’s stumbling along. He’s trying his damndest to make it back into that ring.
NINE...
JOHNNY STUMBLES RIGHT AT THE APRON! Quick save, he makes it back up and rolls in right on time as the fans clap.
Watson: That one was close! Maelstrom almsot didn't make that ten count!
Gomez: Fatigue and blood loss has to be kicking in now here.
No time is wasted as Addy lays into Maelstrom with heavy stomps as soon as he rolls in! Maelstrom is in the zone, however, shaking every single one of them off! He gets up to his knees, eyes wide as he looks to the fans for support… BUT ADDY GOES FOR A DIVINE WIZARD – WAIT – MAELSTROM USES HIS FOREARMS AS A SHIELD TO BLOCK HER OFF! He’s up to his feet… AND NAILS ADDY WITH AN OBE (OUT OF BODY EXPERIENCE)!! Johnny quickly rolls her up for the pin…
ONE...
TWO...
THREE!!!
DING DING DING
Starr: And your winner, via pinfall... JOHNNY MAELSTROM!
Maelstrom stands tall s he tries to catch his breath, the referee holding his hand in victory.
Watson: Adriana Aquilla continues to come just short of getting that signature win here in EWC.
Sydney: She has so much heart, Tim.. Miles and miles of heart, but that can only take you so far. She took Maelstrom right to the limit, but "The Miracle" proved that experience can really make or break a match.
Watson: Addy will figure it out at some point, but for now Maelstrom has a date withe the CW Broadcast championship!
Sydney: and up next we find out who will take on the EWC North American Champion next as Nevaeh takes on Marcu$ $t. John!!!
Camera cuts to ...
With the in-ring action coming to a temporary pause, the X-Tron flickers into life, as we find ourselves transported to the inside of a dark and dingy warehouse. Despite the absence of any meaningful light, we can just make out enough definition amongst the shadow to detect forward motion, our disembodied footsteps echoing around the area as a lone, familiar voice calls out to us.
Voiceover: In the beginning, there was ‘the Caregiver’…
A booming, mechanical thud signals the sudden activation of a red strip light in front and to the left of us. On a small stage, we see the form of a horror movie’s approximation of a nurse, writhing and contorting beneath the light as her inhuman eyes stare out towards us. Our approach slows but doesn’t stop, as the voice of former X-Division Champion Nurse Harlow Kinsley reverberates around us, her words interspersed with archive footage from her record-setting title reign.
Harlow Kinsley: Every X Division match I've ever had has been a complete bloodbath, a battlefield of razor-wired weapons and death-defying falls. Every match for this belt, every attempt to take it from me has been rife with career-threatening injuries and traumatizing accidents. There is no safe X Division match. There is no clean X Division match. To come for this belt is to walk through hell, to wade through barbs and combat through fire.
Voiceover: Next, there was ‘the Warrior’…
Another series of archive clips now plays, these ones dubbed over with the unmistakable voice of Eddie Crank.
Eddie Crank: The X-Division Championship. Also known as, the ‘Get a foot up your ass if you even look at it’ Championship…The X-Division is all about fearlessness, unorthodox beliefs and daring…The Division is all about unpredictability, high-level problem solving with costly physical consequences and swimming against the tide of what is expected.
Voiceover: Many have tried to emulate them…to prove themselves the true heir to one throne or the other. All of them have failed. Now, though? We have a third way.
A final thud rings out as a blue light switches on between the red and green ones. Standing beneath it, of course, is El Pablo, that typical wry smirk on his face and the X-Division title belt wrapped around his waist.
El Pablo: Welcome, my Rainbowlutionary brothers and sisters, to the era of ‘the Entertainer!’
EP turns to face the Nurse over to his right.
El Pablo: An era forged in the same fire and barbed wire as the old gods…
He then turns to face the Warrior to his left.
El Pablo: An era defined by the same exacting standards as the protectors who came before us…
His focus returning to the centre, EP digs a hand into his pocket…
El Pablo: Crucially, though…
…then pulls out a packet of Skittles, depositing a fistful into his hand before tossing them into his mouth.
El Pablo: …it’s an era with a flavour all its own!
He grins, then turns a momentary glance back towards the Warrior before stepping off the left-hand side of the stage and making his way slowly towards the Nurse.
El Pablo: And so…as we move - officially - ahead of Eddie Crank’s 211-day championship reign here tonight, one thing becomes clear: we’ve got ourselves an appointment with destiny.
EP stops just before the Nurse’s stage; the front of his body becoming bathed in the red light overhead. The Nurse lunges towards him - not enough to make contact, only to intimidate. The Tecnico, however, doesn’t flinch; he merely smirks once more as he takes another hit of Skittles.
El Pablo: The countdown is officially on…two-and-a-half months to go…until we make Harlow Kinsley’s legacy turn, cough…and Taste the Rainbow.
Viva la Rainbowlution.
The camera lingers for a moment before finally cutting to black.
SINGLES MATCH
Winner becomes number 1 contender to the EWC North American Championship.
Winner becomes number 1 contender to the EWC North American Championship.
Nevaeh
We return to ringside where Linda Vine is standing in the ring testing the ring ropes to make sure they're in good working condition.
Watson: It's time to determine who the number one contender for the North American Championship. Nevaeh and Marcus St. John is going to put each other through hell tonight.
Sydney: This crowd sure is ready for some more action.
Starr: The following match is scheduled for one fall. Joining us first, from Las Vegas, Nevada, weighing in at 124 pounds ... NEVAEH!
Once "Gasoline" by Porcelain and the Tramps is heard, Nevaeh comes walking out from the back to a chorus of boos. But judging by the smile on her face she doesn't seem to mind. As she makes her way down the aisle, Nevaeh does her best not to let anyone touch her along the way.
After walking up on the ring apron, Nevaeh strikes a pose and give her backside a little shake before stepping between the ropes. Once inside, she mouths off to the fans and paces the ring a bit as she waits for the match to begin.
Starr: And her opponent, from Silicon Valley, CA, weighing in at 220 pounds ... MARCU$ $T. JOHN!
"Fast Lane" blasts through the arena by Bad Meets Evil. A Maybach drives up through the entrance ramp. A chauffeur gets out of the vehicle and opens the back door. Marcu$ $t. John gets out on the entrance stage and money starts falling down from the sky with his face on 100 dollar bills as green laser lights illuminate the arena. As the money shower stops, Marcus walks down the ramp with a confident look on his face.
He stops right before he gets to the ring and listens as he hears mostly boos and a few cheers that he is getting from the crowd. He walks around the ring and high fives people who are cheering and stares a hole in the head of people who boo. He jumps up on the apron and wipes his feet before he enters the ring and poses in the middle of the squared circle as a light shines a hundred dollar bill in the center of the ring with his face on it.
Watson: Can Marcu$ $t. John return to the North American championship scene? Can Nevaeh thrust herself back into the spotlight? Let's find out!!!
DING DING DING
Marcu$ and Nevaeh start to circle each other as the crowd slowly dies down. After the fifth rotation, they meet in the middle of the ring. Marcu$ goes for tie up when Nevaeh bring her foot up and kicks him in the gut. She follows up the kick with a knee lift before capping it off with a clothesline.
Nevaeh bends down to pick him up but gets met with an uppercut to her chin. She staggers back as Marcu$ kips up then connects with an enziguiri to the back of her head. Nevaeh goes down as Marcu$ is back up to a vertical base.
Watson: Neither fighter wanting to give up ground here, this match is deadlocked to start here tonight!
Sydney: Both are fast and nimble, but can Nevaeh keep from slipping into those X-Division ways?
Marcu$ starts running the ropes as Nevaeh drops down in front of him. As he rebounds off the ropes, she pops up to her feet and connects with a beautiful standing dropkick. Marcu$ goes down as Nevaeh follows the dropkick up with a leg drop across his throat. Nevaeh decides to go for a quick cover.
ON-
Marcu$ powers out before one which makes Nevaeh a little upset. She picks him up only to have him roll her up in a pinning predicament of her own.
ONE...
Nevaeh manages to kick out after a one count. Marcu$ and Nevaeh are back to vertical base. Nevaeh goes for a tie up which causes Marcu$ to grab her by one arm and flip her over his shoulder. He follows it up with a standing corkscrew moonsault while going for another pin attempt.
ONE...
TW-
Nevaeh still manages to kick out as Marcu$ is sitting there scratching his head.
Watson: From trading shots to trading pinfall combinations, these two will not stop!
Sydney: Who wants it more, Tim? That is what this is going to come down too!
Marcu$ gets back up to his feet, picks her up and shoots her off towards the corner. Nevaeh's back smacks the turnbuckles hard as Marcus follows her with a corner splash. Nevaeh nearly slumps down until Marcu$ picks her up and places her onto the top turnbuckle.
The crowd starts to come alive again as Marcus climbs after her. He places his legs around her neck which she fights back with multiple blows before leaping of the top and connecting with a sit out powerbomb which jars both of their spines. Nevaeh fights through the pain to pull Marcu$ into a pinning combination.
ONE...
TWO...
TH-
Linda's hand was coming down for a three count until Marcu$ shot his left shoulder up. Nevaeh slowly gets to her feet, grabs Marcu$ by the legs and locks in a cloverleaf. Marcu$ is screaming as Nevaeh keeps the hold in tight. Marcu$ smacks the canvas once while powering himself up onto his hands. He slowly starts to drag himself across the ring as Linda is asking him if he can still fight. Marcu$ continues to drag himself and Nevaeh until she breaks the hold to pull him back towards the center. Before she can lock it back in, Marcu$ uses his leg strength to wrap around her neck and send her across the ring with a headscissors takedown. Marcu$ takes sometime to collect himself before charging across the ring. Nevaeh rolls out of the ring as Marcu$ steps onto the ropes and flips backwards while landing with his hand on the canvas.
Nevaeh smirks as Marcus comes through the ropes but she moves out of the way. Marcu$ lands on his feet as Nevaeh catches him with a thumb to the eye before slamming him head first onto the ring apron. Marcu$ drops to one knee as Nevaeh picks him up and does one more time. Marcu$' head bounces back as she wraps her arm around his neck and drops him onto the back of his head. Nevaeh smiles before picking him up and throwing him back into the ring.
Watson: Round and round we go, inside, outside, everywhere this one goes!
Sydney: This match reminds me of the never ending Candy/Stitches feud. Put another quarter in the merry go round!
Marcu$ is slowly getting back to his feet as Nevaeh is waiting in the corner. Marcu$ turns groggily around as Nevaeh is looking for Cast out of Heaven but Marcu$ sidesteps out of the way. Neavah lands hard on her back as Marcu$ is waiting. Right as Nevaeh stands up, Marcu$ connects with Bread and Butter. He immediately goes for the cover.
ONE...
TWO...
THREE!!!
DING DING DING
Starr: And your winner, via pinfall MARCU$ $T JOHN!
"Fast Lane" strikes up as Marcus St John rolls out of the ring and stands next to the fans. Marcus is all smiles as Nevaeh looks out at him with a soft growl under her voice.
Watson: There you have it folks. Marcus St John is now the number one contender to the North American Championship. I hope James or JFS were watching this match.
Sydney: Nevaeh has nothing to be ashamed of tonight. She wrestled her ass off but sometimes that isn't enough.
Watson: Nevaeh absolutely came with in inches of getting back into the title scene. I have a feeling she will not bet away from it much longer.
Sydney: We still have our two championship fights left to come, stay tuned!
Camera cuts to ...
Amidst the hustle and bustle of Uprising XXII, the one relatively uninhibited area of Ben Hill Griffin Stadium is its entrance, with the exception of a phone speaker in the vicinity that blares the opening notes to a classic from a local legend.
“Well, I won’t back down… No, I won’t back down… You can stand me up at the gates of Hell, but I… won’t back down…”
The song gets a bit louder, now accompanied by footsteps.
“No, I’ll stand my ground… Won’t be turned around… And I’ll keep this world from dragging me down, gonna… stand my ground… And I…”
Suddenly, the Tom Petty anthem disappears from the atmosphere, and stepping forward is none other than Ace King.
Ace King: Won’t… Back… Down.
The Gambler’s signature steely glare is accompanied by a knowing nod, contented by the fact that nobody around seems to notice him.
Ace King: That’s been my career path from the moment I signed here almost six years ago, and I’m about as tried and true as it gets in any era of EWC’s history. So, why am I here, you ask? After all, I am but a Rampage commoner on the premises of a Paramount-exclusive show, right? Meaning I should be more focused on the Best of Rampage Tournament than being here right now, right?
Ace briefly looks over his shoulder as he hears a large crowd cheer for something happening inside the stadium itself, then returns his focus to the outside.
Ace King: I’m essentially here to provide a reminder to Asriel Buzzard, and of course Ito-san, of what awaits the winner. Despite my own commitments at the moment, I couldn’t help but hear what the two of you had to say leading up to tonight… Already so willing to dismiss me as if I’m some kind of relic, all while conveniently forgetting that Ito-san didn’t fully dismiss me at all.
Ace’s eyes narrow very subtly, though he otherwise maintains an even keel.
Ace King: I’ve been up front in saying that the draw from StrangleMania felt worse than a loss in some ways, because there’s no closure in that result… However, the one good thing about what went down is that, despite not coming away with the gold myself, my Undisputed Championship hopes are still alive, even if they’re on life support. So, here I am, ready to remind you both of what’s coming.
The Gambler gently pushes the entrance door open, allowing a torrential sound wave to crash out before letting the door shut behind him as he slowly walks outside.
Ace King: Do you hear that, gentlemen? Some have said the noise here can measure up to the threshold of pain at its loudest. Asriel… Killjoy… You’re going to feel the full brunt of this pressure cooker tonight, because the EWC knows what to expect from the two of you. I want you to feel it so forcefully that even your agonized screams will get drowned out, because the Undisputed Championship DEMANDS that… And then, once it’s over? Regardless of who emerges as the Undisputed Champion tonight…
Ace takes a few more steps, then stops as he comes up next to the famous Bull Gator statue outside.
Ace King: …A killer is still laying in wait, still more than capable of getting the job done when it matters the most.
Ace slowly tilts his head to look the Bull Gator statue dead in the eyes, his upper lip twitching into a sneer. Fade to black.
The camera cuts backstage inside the Ben Hill Griffin Stadium where we find Paramount’s Lisa Goldrush standing next to the EWC Undisputed Champion’s manager, ‘The Prodigal Son’ Buddy Love.
Goldrush: First off Buddy I want to thank you for your time, I know how important tonight is for Killjoy Ito as he’s set to once again defend his championship against…
Love: The Devil…
Lisa pauses for a second but Buddy continues, not allowing her to regroup with her prepared opening.
Love: Because that’s who Asriel Buzzard is right Lisa, he’s the Devil…he’s said it as much, those are the words that have come out of his mouth, I’m not speaking out of school or accusing Asriel in any manner…he is the Devil and he’s set out to do what the Devil does…cause mistrust and chaos in one’s life…
Buddy nods at Lisa, who continues to look on and allow Buddy to have his moment.
Love: See I remember going to church as a young boy with my mother, listening to Sunday service as the preacher man would warn every man, woman and child about the Devil and the games he would play in order to steer you off the path of salvation…the lies he would tell you to make you question your love one…
Buddy shakes his head.
Love: Asriel spoke directly to Killjoy and tried to convince him that the Love’s only see him as ‘property’, a position that we can hand off and trade away anytime we like and that couldn’t have been any more wrong. My father didn’t just ‘give’ me Killjoy like he was some sort of gift for being a ‘good boy’, I was entrusted to further Killjoy’s career. I get it through, Asriel took the lazy approach and played the Gabi Visconty card to try and make Killjoy think that my father gave up on him. That he just tossed him aside for bigger and better things but the TRUTH IS, my father knew he couldn’t handle Gabi’s medical dependency and handle the day in and day out responsibilities of managing a talent of Killjoy so he called me in to HELP get the most out of Killjoy and TOGETHER Killjoy and I put a plan in place…
Buddy smiles at Lisa.
Love: It was my idea to bring him to the FSW, my father saw the potential of keeping Killjoy on the international tour that was Prime but I knew he could be more…that was proven when we came to FSW #092 and beat the then FSW Champion Stitches…WE, Killjoy and I made the decision to take the FSW contract and come to the FSW, against the wishes of my father, a decision he now sees as the right one but it what was best for Killjoy at the time and I knew that…if Killjoy was nothing more than ‘property’ to me then I wouldn’t have cared about what was best for him…it would have been all about what was best for ME…THAT’S what Asriel is trying to spin here but it’s not true…
Buddy shakes his head no.
Love: Killjoy Ito isn’t stamped ‘Property of Buddy Love’ like my suitcase, he’s family to me Lisa. He’s my brother from another mother…and father but you understand what I’m saying here…he’s like a brother to me, I’m closer to Killjoy than I’ve ever been with Bunny and more so than Jamie…but to be fair there I just discovered my father #seeded his mother but I’m closer to Killjoy than all my ‘real’ brothers and sisters so I’m not going to let the ‘Devil’ get inside my head and he’s not going to get inside Killjoy’s head…he knows I care about him and value our PARTNERSHIP here in the EWC and outside this company. I’ve been to Japan with him, broke bread with his family…they welcomed me inside their home and treated me like Buddy Ito so Asriel your little mind games won’t work ‘friend’...
Buddy smiles having quoted Asriel’s use of ‘friend’
Love: He tried his best to spin his lies, making it seem like his failures inside the Insanity Cage at Night of Champions and then again at Rampage #492 had no bearing on him, that he was fine with not winning the Undisputed Championship on either of those night and has zero regret and that’s a cute way to lie to yourself Asriel because if you had no regret than why did you disappear from the EWC after Rampage #492…why did you run off into the darkness in which you hid yourself away in? You were ashamed Asriel, I’ll say it for you, ashamed of your failures and I get it. Killjoy and I were ashamed after last year’s Uprising but we didn’t sulk, we didn’t hide…we didn’t run away in hope of people forgetting about it. We showed right back up, head held high and ready to tackle the world again…we got back up off the mat which is more than I can say you did ‘friend’...
Buddy smiles even larger now
Love: We learned from our defeat and came back even stronger…
The door behind Buddy and Lisa opens and out steps the EWC Undisputed Champion Killjoy Ito, in his full wrestling robe, the Undisputed Championship over his shoulder.
Love: We went on to become one of the winners of the Rumble and then went on to WrestleFest and won the biggest prize in the EWC, defended that championship at StrangleMania against one of this company's GREATEST champions, while you...well you came in and just talked, which is cute considering I’m the ‘motormouth’ right Asriel…you said a lot of words without really saying anything new or original but that’s ok, some people aren’t as blessed with the tongue as I am…
Buddy sticks his tongue out and wiggles it around.
Love: He dismissed what Killjoy has done as Undisputed Champion, thinking himself better than Gabi and Isabella, bragging about beating Stitches, Melody Malone and Aiya at StrangleMania and ignoring the fact that he was just beaten by Marcu$ $t. John at the last Paramount, pretended like it was nothing because the Devil never looks at his own shortcomings…it’s just about our shortcomings right…
Buddy smiles
Love: You say you’re not the Devil but I disagree Asriel, you are his human vessel here in the EWC and tonight we come face to face with the Devil in the form of you. You think you’re destined to hold this championship, this ‘prize’ yet you know not the meaning it has to us. The roads we traveled to get here, the pain and suffering we endured along the day to this moment, our ‘journey’ was not one of easy as you made it out to be, he just didn’t go out there and ‘dominate’ the indies on Prime, he had to scratch and claw his way to the top. We weren’t handed the big money main brand contract, we had to work our way up through developmental and the FSW to show we deserved a spot in Paramount and last year when we walked out of Uprising we vowed we would come back to this very ppv and make amends for what happened to us here last year…see Asriel, you have spent all this time thinking that THIS, is YOUR journey but you can’t see and clearly don’t understand that you are a supporting role in KILLJOY’s REDEMPTION!!!
Buddy looks at Killjoy and nods.
Love: Tonight we return to Uprising to make good on that promise…tonight we step into the ring with Asriel Buzzard and make him a side note in Redemption Story and when it’s over he can crawl back into the darkness and tell the Devil he failed once again…
Buddy smiles as Killjoy and him walk off screen.
SINGLES MATCHFor The EWC Undisputed Championship
Azriel Buzzard
Vs Killjoy Ito
We return to ringside where Tim and Cid are standing by.
Watson: We just heard from The Undisputed champion AND the man who still has another opportunity at that Undisputed championship! I, for one, am looking forward that rematch if it happens. We will find out though as Killjoy is set to defend his championship... right now!!!
Starr: The Following contest is scheduled for ONE fall and is for the EWC Undisputed Championship!!! Introducing first, from Hill City, Kansas. He is ASRIEL BUZZARD!!!!!
The first few notes of a piece of orchestral music start to play around the arena, with the harps giving way to violins after a few seconds and an image appearing on the screen as the house lights lower.
As the guitars of ‘Animals’ by Architects begins to pound around the arena, strobe lights flash as the image on the screen fades to flashing images of a familiar face.
Slowly, Asriel Buzzard emerges from the curtain and stands atop the stage staring out into the crowd to a mixed response.
He walks down the ramp and circles the ring before rolling under the bottom rope and climbing the turnbuckle to stare into the crowd again, holding a closed umbrella aloft, his expression blank.
Starr: And his Opponent, from Daly City, California by way of Tokyo, Japan... He is the reigning, defending, EWC UNDISPUTED CHAMPION..... The Ace of EWC... KILLJOOOOOOOOY.... IIIIIIITO!!!!!!!
‘The Prodigal Son’ Buddy Love walks out onto the stage and raises his arms into the air as the lights fade out. He jumps up and down as ‘Deeper Depper’ begins to play. A strobe light circles around the stage as a single white spotlight hits the stage where Killjoy Ito is standing, his back facing the ring, his arms stretched out and his head down. He swings around to face the ring as Buddy Love runs up and stands next to him. After a quick word the pair start to walk towards the ring, Buddy runs ahead and charges up the steps and holds open the ropes for Killjoy to step through. Killjoy walks to the center of the ring, extends his arms and tilts his head back to soak everything in.
DING DING DING
As soon as the bell rings, The fans start chanting “This is Awesome!” as Asriel quickly gets into the face of the Undisputed champion and starts trash talking him, then motioning that he will leave with the Undisputed championship by mimicking the belt around his waist. Killjoy remains emotionless at first as they circle each other before going in for a lock up, but Asriel gets the early advantage by ducking and shooting the leg, taking Killjoy to the mat quickly as he loses balance. Killjoy is quick to one knee though as Buzzard hits the ropes and comes back off with a knee smash to the back of the head on Ito! Killjoy falls face first, but braces himself by the elbows to break his fall.
A smirk crosses his face as he gets to his feet. Asriel is already bouncing off the ropes again though and looking for a basement drop kick, which the Undisputed champion easily bats away. Killjoy quickly grabs the hair of his opponent as Buddy Love screams encouragement to his client from the outside. Ito throws Asirel’s arm over his head and picks the former United States champion up for a suplex, which he then turns into a neck breaker over his knee!
The crowd is really getting into this match now as Buzzard quickly grabs his neck and rolls to the outside, avoiding a standing double foot stomp from the champion. Holding his neck on the outside, Asriel takes a breather while contemplating his next move.
Watson: Both men very easily matched in the early goings here.
Sydney: Killjoy is being surprisingly calm here to start this one off, despite the jaw jacking of the challenger!
Just as Cid says this, Killjoy is tired of waiting and slides under the ring to the outside, seeming to stalk his opponent, who is unknowingly backed closer and closer to an every encroaching Buddy Love, who looks to be going for his patented fireball of doom! As soon as Asriel bumps into him and turns, however, Buddy just waves at him as Killjoy pounces and grabs Buzzard by the head, turning and throwing him into the steel steps on the outside!
The loud crash draws a collective “OHHHH” from the crowd in Gainesville, Ito now quick to close the gap and engage with Buzzard again, but Asriel is able to draw him in away from Referee Matt Mercer’s complete view and poke him in the eyes! The fans start to boo the challenger for that one, but Buzzard now is able to reverse his luck and throw Ito into the steel steps!
Inside the ring, Matt Mercer is up to seven on his mandatory ten count and Buzzard is aware enough to roll under the ropes to break the count, before he rolls back out to get the downed Ito.
Once back in the ring, both men get to their feet and Buzzard sends a stiff kick to the midsection of Killjoy, then hits the ropes and comes off charging at Ito, before sliding to one knee and delivering a wicked European Uppercut that sends Ito to the mat with a hard THUD. Buzzard with the first pinfall attempt of the evening
ONE…
TWO…
Kickout!
Ito watis til two, but kicks out with force, sending Buzzard rolling across the ring.
Watson: Ito perhaps starting to get a little frustrated here with that kickout.
Sydney: No, more like he’s reminding Asriel that he will only tolerate so much before he makes the size and weight advantage VERY apparent. Killjoy is feeling Buzzard out, but he is also a ring general. I think we are about to see that side of the champion come out.
Both men are back to their feet and this time do actually lock up. Ito is quick to use the weight advantage and transition to a standing wasit lock. Buzzard scrambles for a moment to find a way to break the hold, but quickly is able to transition to a rear wristlock. Ito now looking for a way out, but Buzzard shoves him into the ropes, Buzzard ducks, looking for his opponent to come up and over but instead nothing happens for a few seconds, but just as Buzzard comes back straight up, Ito comes off the ropes with the Kushu springboard forearm smash! He connects flush with Asriel’s head and rocks the challenger back into the corner. He covers his jaw, checking for a break and finding none, he quickly gets stable and charges Ito, who is ready with a deep Japanese arm drag. Buzzard rolls through and back to his feet, charging again, but Ito ready with another Arm drag, and then another. After the fourth consecutive arm drag, Buzzard finally stops charging the champion and the two mne are in a stalemate in the center of the ring!
The crowd is showing their appreciation for the display of athleticism here as both men circle each other. They go to engage again, but this time Buzzard kicks to the dominant leg of the champion, sending him staggering back. Buzzard is quick to follow up by grabbing the champion for a snap suplex that connects. Buzzard follows that up by grabbing the dominant leg and turning the champion over, locking in a single leg Boston crab! Ito is about 4 feet from the corner but is not able to touch a rope as Buzzard digs in deep!
Watson: BUZZARD HAS THE BOSTON CRAB LOCKED IN TIGHT! Ito is crying out after the attacks to his knee there, Buzzard is being tactical here.
Sydney: Buzzard is going to keep going back to that knee at every change he can in order to make sure that he does his best to take away the Kettei-Da.
Back inside the ring, Ito is finally able to muster the strength to get to the corner and touch the ropes, forcing Buzzard to break the hold after a generous 4 count from Matt Mercer. Buzzard sees Buddy Love standing on the outside, near the corner where Ito is, screaming for him to get up.
Buddy Love: GET UP KILLJOY!!! GET UP, GET UP, GET UP!!!!
Buzzard slides out of the ring and stalks Buddy, who doesn’t notice Asriel until he is almost within striking distance, but Love is able to scurry backward and create some distance, Buzzard continues to push forward as Buddy runs into the next post and trips over the steel steps that his client crashed into earlier in the match. Buddy Love goes ass over tea kettle as he rolls to the floor, doing his best to scramble to his feet. He is cowering up against the guardrail now, his hands in front of him begging for mercy as Asriel closes in. Right before he can put his hands on Buddy Love, Killjoy ito comes off the apron with an elbow slash to the back of Buzzards head, the Konbanwa connects and sends Buzzard flying into the guardrail neck first, guillotining him! The crowd “OOOHHS” at the sick impact against Buzzard’s throat.
Ito has a look of anger on him that very few have seen before. He grabs Buzzard by the hair and throws him back into the ring, his body hitting the mat hard.
Watson: KIlljoy Ito is not playing around anymore. He is delivering every move, every strike, with more power and purpose than I have ever seen him use before.
Sydney: Ace King and Killjoy Ito have been tied at the hip for the last few seasons, but tonight I think Killjoy is starting to show you that he is able to go to an entirely different level of his own!
Killjoy slides back into the ring, not wasting a moment, picking up his opponent. He delivers a stiff chop to the chest of Buzzard before he turns, jumps a beat and then charges at the ropes, hitting them hard and coming back with a kitchen sink knee to the midsection that doubles over Asriel Buzzard. Asirel grabs his stomach in pain, but Killjoy doesn’t budge and runs to the ropes again, this time coming back with a front flip leg drop to the back of Buzzard's neck! Killjoy forcefully rolls Asriel over and goes for a cover.
ONE…
TWO…
TH- Kickout!
Asriel kicks out at two and a half! Ito looks a bit frustrated there but quickly gets to his feet, bringing the former BORT winner with him. He positions himself and his opponent upright before grabbing Asreil’s head and positioning him for a powerbomb. Killjoy lifts Buzzard up, but Asriel is quick to lay in a few hard fists to Killjoy’s head and Killjoy Pushes him off, but Asriel is able to stay in the air, grab the head of the champion and deliver a sickening tornado DDT that imaples the Universal champion straight onto the mat!
Watson: He might have just sealed this match right there. I think Killjoy Ito is unconscious!
Sydney: Man it certainly seems that way. Let’s see what the champion has here.
Buddy Love is screaming at the top of his lungs for Killjoy to get up, trying to muster his client to move. Asriel brings Killjoy up to his feet, takes a step back and delivers a Redeemer superkick that sends Killjoy back into the corner, his arms flailing over the top ropes, barely keeping him upright. Buzzard quickly follows up by grabbing the Undisputed champion and putting him into pump handle position.
Watson: Oh, we all know what this means!
Sydney: The Survival by Buzzard!!
The move hits and Killjoy lands on the mat, near the ropes. Asriel quickly follows up with a cover.
ONE…
TWO…
THRE- Killjoy gets a foot on the rope!!!!!
The crowd can’t believe it.. Asriel cannot believe it He is absolutely gobsmacked and the anger is flowing through him as he pounds his fist into the mat. Ito is sucking wind hard as he rolls to the outside, barely able to stand. Buddly Love is right there though to support him and hold him up. Matt Mercer starts his ten count. Asriel is grabbing his hair, trying to figure out what it will take to put the champion away. He then gets a smirk on his face as he comes around through the ropes and sneakily crosses over the post to be on the same side of the ring that Killjoy is on. He and Buddy don’t see him as he charges and nails a Superkick from the apron to Killjoy on the floor! Buddy can’t believe what is going on as he screams “NOOOO”.
Buzzard picks up the limp body of the champion and rolls him into the ring, sliding under to follow suit. Asriel goes to lock in a rear naked choke, but can’t fall back with it as Killjoy is to a knee now and able to stave it off.. He fights around quickly looking for an escape and is able to barely grab the rope, forcing a break. Ito takes a moment to gather himself, but Asriel grabs him and throws him to the middle of the ring, leaving Killjoy in a seated position. Buzzard looks at Ito and looks at the crowd. He takes a breath before running to the ropes, coming off and looking for The Release shining wizard knee strike, but Killjoy bends back and dodges it, sending Asriel into the ropes, hyper extending his leg!
Killjoy is able to flip over and see what happened. He pounces on this opportunity and throws Asriel back into the middle of the ring, Buzzard grabbing his leg in pain. Killjoy grabs his opponent by the hair and gets him to a seated position. Killjoy shakes his dominant leg, checking for ability to use it, before running to the ropes and coming off with a Kettei-Da knee strike! Asriel crumples to the mat.
Watson: I THINK HE JUST KILLED ASRIEL BUZZARD!!!!!
Sydney: This has been such an incredible matchup, but Killjoy Ito is hitting harder than i think I have ever seen someone hit their opponent here tonight.
Ito does not cover Buzzard, instead he brings him up to a seated position again. He grabs the hair and slaps Buzzard so hard, it can be heard in the nosebleeds! He then gives Buzzard the finger before releasing his challenger, running to the ropes and delivering another insanely impactful Kettai-Da! Ito now with the pin.
ONE…
TWO…
THREE!!!
DING DING DING
Starr: Here is your winner, via pinfall and STILL EWC UNDISPUTED CHAMPION… KILLJOY ITO!!!!
Watson: Killjoy with defense number two of the Undisputed championship! What an insane match that was.
Sydney: You don’t always need to make your opponent bleed, or put them through tables, ladders, chairs.. Whatever to show the aggression that those two showed us tonight. Asriel Buzzard came within milliseconds of winning the EWC Undisputed Championship and he has to know that he is going to be champion again here in EWC. Tonight was just not his night.
Watson: Indeed Cid. Killjoy Ito found a level tonight that I don’t thing even he thought he had. He went to the place that the best go to when they have to win and he delivered here tonight!
Inside the ring, Killjoy has moved to the corner to recover, but in the middle of the ring Asriel Buzzard is absolutely emotionless. The look in his eyes tells you that he cannot believe he failed a second time to secure the EWC Undisputed championship. He looks around so confused, as if to ask “What comes next” He looks at the Undisputed champion, a look of disgust on his face. He spits at him and then drops to the mat, rolling out of the ring.
Sydney: Buzzard making it very clear he does not respect the champion with that show.
Ito seemingly brushes it off and walks to the center of the ring. Buddy Love has wrangeld the EWC Undisputed championship belt from Matt Mercer and is there to put it around the waist of the champion, who stands tall with his arms wide.
Watson: That might be a sight that we see for a long time here in EWC. We still have that massive Main event to come folks, you don’t want to miss it!!!
The Halo Syndicate are seen walking through the backstage area. Several members of the medical staff have checked out Nina and placed a bandage on her head. Carrie and Nina are all smiles.
Carrie Samson: Tonight, was only the beginning. Next, he head to Brawl.
Nina Samson: The Halo tour has officially begun and there is no stopping us now.
Carrie starts laughing.
Carrie Samson: See you soon Gabi V.
The camera cuts too ....
SINGLES MATCH
For The EWC North American Championship
"THE WICKED" JAMES KEATON
"THE WICKED" JAMES KEATON
Vs JORDAN FREAKIN' SHARPE
We return to ringside where the atmosphere is electric, the crowd having barely settled from the Undisputed Championship match moments before. People are already chanting for the North American champion, as well as for Paramount as a whole.
Watson: Well, folks, it's all been leading up to this. Our next stop on the Sharppreciation Tour, coming at you worldwide for as long as it takes! This one's for all the beans - the EWC North American championship, and all the bragging rights and historic legacy that come along with it.
Sydney: Really, Woo? Beans? Is that a race thing? Ayayay, whatever! This is our main event! I'm so excited! Can James Keaton do what Marcu$ $t. John failed to do in that deliciously bloody dog collar match? Can he end this retirement tour mierda once and for all?
Starr: The following match is for one fall, and is for the EWC North American Championship! Joining us first, from London, England, weighing in at two hundred and forty eight pounds ... THE WICKED ... JAAAAMES KEEEEATOOOON!!!
The arena lights begin to flash in tune to the drums as "The Wicked and The Cursed" by The Cold Stares plays throughout the arena. As the guitar rhythm plays, James Keaton makes his presence known by appearing at the top of the entrance ramp. Keaton begins cracking his knuckles in a slow and methodical way before walking with purpose to the ring. Keaton takes his time using the steps to enter the ring before leaning against the ropes and testing their strength.
Starr: And his opponent, from New Brunswick, Canada, weighing in at two hundred and thirty pounds ... JORDAN FREAKIN' SHAAAAAAARPE!!!
Jordan Sharpe comes out, wearing the newest JFS Officially Licensed T-Shirt and the North American title. Accompanied by Carley California, he heads down the ramp with gusto. Today, there are no hats, shirts, tumblers, OR pop sockets to hand out; instead, there are NFTs! At least, cheaply-printed copy-pasta'd images. Is there a difference? Jordan hands them out to any kids, neckbeards or people he thinks are cool beans. For the first time in history, people are actually pleased to be offered NFTs! As he makes it to the ring, the fans chant 'NO!' after each 'You ain't ready' in his entrance music as he poses against the ropes or up on the turnbuckle.
Watson: Love him or hate him - and, Cid, let's be clear, almost everybody loves him... Jordan Sharpe is our North American champion, and he is Paramount! He retained in spectacular fashion at StrangleMania, can this 'old dog' show us another new trick tonight?
DING DING DING
Jordan is still mockingly jaw-jacking with a fan about their new NFT when Keaton hits him like a truck, careening across the ring with a European uppercut that drives the champion into the corner. He covers up to weather a second blow, but in so doing exposes his chest. Smiling gleefully, the Wicked drives in a knife edge chop that echoes like a gunshot around the Swamp. The crowd is FIRMLY against him as he hits two more - and then tries for a fourth, only for a game Sharpe to seize his hand, yank the arm across his own chest and fall back, driving Keaton into the turnbuckle!
The champion twists as he rises, catching his stunned foe about the waist and crotch, roaring at the crowd as he demonstrates his unfaded strength - turning to the center as he scoops up Keaton, who defiantly shakes his head. But there's nothing the larger man can do; JFS hits a monstrous fallaway slam, and pops straight to his feet, arms raised and a grin on his lips.
Any lead the Wicked had evaporates, as he struggles to vertical base only to immediately eat a vigorous superman punch, a low kick, a rapid-fire punch combination and then a spinning elbow strike that sends him bouncing off the ropes. Absolutely on fire, Sharpe weaves aside, and steps right in to attempt the Sharpeknife on his dazed, dizzied challenger; but a wide-eyed, panicked Keaton has the wherewithal to drive a heel upward, into the freakin' groin!
Toyo Yasahiro steps in to deliver a warning, as Sharpe and Keaton both fall to the canvas, the Wicked just barely catching himself on his knees with an outstretched arm. He's chuckling darkly as he waves off the official and looks back over his shoulder at Jordan, who's still gasping in agony. With an exacting fury in his eyes, Keaton gets to his feet and picks the champion straight up with a savage gutwrench, driving him back into the mat where he immediately locks in a sleeper hold. Jordan struggles against it, throwing a foot toward the ropes only to be yanked away and upwards, so Keaton can apply the body scissors and slam him to the mat a second time using his own body weight.
"PLEASE DON'T TAP!"
"KEATON SUCKS!"
"PLEASE DON'T TAP!"
"KEATON SUCKS!"
Whether it's the energy from the crowd or his own stubborn resolve, the North American champion ain't yielding - waving off Yasahiro time and again, until Keaton finally gasses his arms and has to release the hold, sliding to his feet with an unpleasant scowl - gaze raging at the crowd, who oblige him with fresh jeers and a barrage of trash from the front row. Including several printed NFTs. It's one of these that Keaton scoops up, striding over to Sharpe as the other man finds his knees. Holding the page in both hands, he brings it down over Jordan's face, grinding him back into the canvas.
Watson: This crowd is most certainly NOT behind The Wicked here tonight. but Jordan Sharpe seems to be struggling here tonight. Does he have enough left in the tank to get this win here, Cid?
Sydney: We are going to find out, but it sure seems like he may not!
Releasing his prey, Keaton hits several frustrated stomps and then paces around the champion, motioning him to stand. Sharpe wipes at his mouth as he catches his breath, using the ropes to get to his feet. Keaton's giving him no more time than that to recover, and drives in with a heavy forearm smash! No! Jordan counters it, diving under and tossing the Wicked clean over the ropes. The crowd goes wild, as Sharpe looks around at them and then motions to the dazed Keaton on the outside. People are on their feet; they want Sharpe to dive!
Jordan starts running, hits the ropes, then pulls up short, putting his hands on his hips and puffing out his cheeks to disappointed 'awwwws!' from around the arena. Keaton is back on his feet, shaking his head to clear the cobwebs-- and THEN Sharpe darts forward, vaulting the ropes to hit a clean crossbody that sends the EWC faithful into ecstatic conniptions!
The champion rolls to vertical base, his arms in the air, receiving their praise like he just won Olympic gold, a big ol' grin all over his face. James Keaton pulls himself up on the barricade, waits, and then spoils the moment by furiously sweeping Jordan's legs! The champ crashes down hard, his head bouncing off the apron, and with a frantic sneer Keaton pounces toward him-- and pulls up short, clocking the count by Toyo Yasahiro. He breaks it by rolling in and out of the ring, and then sets about picking up Sharpe with a handful of hair.
Jordan is dead on his feet, and Keaton turns him toward the announce table, his intentions clear as he glances toward it and licks his lips. He's about to heave back, when his opponent comes alive, desperately striking with a headbutt! The Wicked holds on despite the ferocity of the blow, and goes to heave again - but Sharpe repeats the strike, this time right into the nose with a sickening CRUNCH! Keaton grasps at his face, and it's the opening Sharpe needs to reverse the hold, smoothly hooking the leg and launching the Wicked into the apron with a hastily-improvised fisherman suplex!
Keaton crumples onto the floor in a heap, and JFS flies underneath the bottom rope, clawing back into the ring and to his feet to the appreciation of the crowd, and a nod of respect from Yasahiro - who is continuing to count the other man out. It looks bad for Keaton...
Watson: Keaton might be knocked out cold here Cid. He is NOT moving.
Sydney: JFS isn't exactly moving very well right now either Tim! Both of these men are struggling!
Sharpe appears worried, shaking his head as Yasahiro hits eight. He's muttering to himself, motioning for the challenger to get to his feet. The crowd seems split - some just want the champion to retain at any cost, many are just making a damn racket to encourage any kind of action. It's nine and a half when the Wicked rises, laughing, his gaze manic and wild as he stares out at the crowd, leaning on the apron until the last possible instant. Sharpe is as shocked as anybody else, starting forward to meet Keaton on re-entry with an uppercut to the chin!
He eats the blow with a sick grin, asking for another, and Jordan obliges with a kick to the midsection that's caught by his opponent. With Sharpe on one leg, Keaton drives him back with a forearm and then hooks his head, spinning him through into a modified DDT that leads right into a snug cover, in the middle of the ring!
ONE...
TWO...
KICKOUT!
It's agonizingly close! Close enough that James Keaton is incensed to immediately try again, gripping Jordan firmly as he tries to stand. Pulling him up, turning him around, this time hitting his Wicked DDT, rolling into a necklock that garners a cry of pain from the champion. Yasahiro is asking for the submission, as the crowd musters behind the champion in peril, who has nowhere to run. The ropes are too far to reach, the Wicked's hold too tight. It's with pure, bloody-minded willpower that Sharpe muscles back against it, putting his neck in even greater danger as he manages to pick up the lower half of his body, SCREAMING as he manages to flail a knee into Keaton's temple!
The challenger tries to re-establish his grip, but the opening has been found. Jordan's hand closes on the bottom rope, and the official intercedes. Keaton backs off with an angry yell, shaking head to toe, adrenalized as he leans into the corner post and points damningly out at the crowd. Their support of the champion only grows louder, and Keaton turns with Wicked intent--
--right into a Freakin' Boot! Jordan almost falls from delivering the strike, his foot catching on the top rope, his face red and plastered in sweat as he unhooks himself and desperately hurls an elbow to his stunned foe's jaw. It takes several more before Keaton hangs there, blood dripping from his broken nose, and Sharpe is able to wriggle him into position for the Ode to Milo! Out of the corner with a HUUUUGE sit-out powerbomb that almost sends Keaton THROUGH the ring!
JFS makes the cover!
ONE...
TW--
KICKOUT!!
Watson: WHAT IS IT GOING TO TAKE?! WHO IS FINALLY GOING TO BE ABLE TO PUT THE OTHER DOWN FOR THE 3?!
Sydney: If I could tell you that, I'd be a billionaire Tim!
The Wicked kicks out hard, and Jordan falls onto his side, gasping for air, trying to rise only to find his ankle grabbed and his entire body pulled back toward Keaton. He manages to twist, drive a kick into the face, and struggle upright only to be taken down by a scissor-leg. Keaton holds on, and sits back into a single crab - but targeting the fresher half of the champ's body gives him a fighting chance. He bucks his hips and drives toward the ropes, breaking the hold. Rather than take the full count, Keaton releases it and prowls a semi-circle to catch the recovering Jordan in a headlock, keeping the pressure on.
With the fans stalwart behind him, Sharpe manages to free himself with a couple of sharp elbows, popping his head out and shoving Keaton forward. The larger man barely moves, and turns to counter with a stiff lariat - but Jordan goes underneath, hits the ropes--
--and flies right into a Wicked Backbreaker! Keaton is predatory, spinning him out of the sidewalk slam across his knee, before looking toward the corner. He glances down at the champion, who is writhing in pain, and with a humorless, rictus of a grin he scoops Jordan up and drapes him across the top rope before slipping through to the apron. A ripple of uncertainty runs through the crowd, as James Keaton goes high and comes flying off with both knees aimed for the midsection of the champion!
The Story So-- NO!! Jordan Freakin' Sharpe spins free, his heels leaving the top rope in the nick of time as Keaton cleaves through into an empty pool. He had too much momentum; his head bounces off the turnbuckle, and the wide-eyed, panting Sharpe slides in behind as he stumbles. He HEAVES backwards, launching the challenger with a desperate German suplex. Keaton bounces, rolls, and ends up seated in the middle of the ring, folding forward into his own midsection. JFS slides to his feet, turns and LUNGES at Keaton, hauling him upright into a full nelson. The crowd knows what's coming...
The facebuster! The SHARPEKNIFE! James Keaton is DOWN, damaged face first, and the Swamp is erupting! Rolling the challenger over with his back, Sharpe hooks the legs for the pin!
ONE...
TWO...
NO!!
Watson: Another close pin by JFS here, but the CW Broadcast Champion manages to kick out!
Sydney: There's a little less zip to those sickouts by Keaton, he might be fading here.
The North American champion falls back from the kickout, eyes wide in absolute disbelief as Keaton thrashes his way out of the Sharpeknife. The Wicked seems out on his feet as he stands, but stand he does, staggering toward the ropes where he braces himself with an arm slung over them, a dark chuckle burbling from between his lips, blowing bubbles in the blood streaming from his face. Jordan stands in the corner, staring the other man down, an urgency quivering his two hundred pound frame as he beckons him onward. Keaton's eyes refocus, meeting the stare of JFS.
"Come on, you asshole" mouths Jordan, sliding his feet square beneath him, squatting against the corner post as he beckons again. The Wicked rises, flicking out his wrists, stalking forward. He teases darting into the corner, and Sharpe reacts on instinct by stepping aside. Whatever he was planning is curtailed as Keaton drives a boot to the gut, follows up with a snap suplex. Sharpe rolls THROUGH it, coming up running, hitting the ropes to come back with a Best Fucking Palm Thrust! It comes within a whisker of the already-broken nose, when Keaton fluidly catches the out-stretched arm, spins and bulldogs Sharpe into the canvas, holding on to re-establish a headlock.
The champion is having none of it, powering up to his knees despite all the damage already done, locking an arm around Keaton's waist and picking him up as he stands. Crying out from the sheer effort, JFS staggers back under Keaton's weight and drops the back of his head across the corner post, turning to lay in with strikes. He steps back to unleash a violent roundhouse kick, but Keaton catches the leg and spins out into a Dragon screw that introduces Jordan's face to the turnbuckle! He's bust open, careens out into a gutwrench powerbomb by the Wicked, going tit-for-tat out of the corner. Keaton doesn't go for the cover, instead leaving Sharpe down and heading to the apron.
Jordan is slow to rise, the chants of the crowd ringing in his ears, blood pouring into his eyes. It's the latter that costs him; he simply can't see where Keaton is, and the Wicked has an almost religious fervor in his eyes as he flexes his way up and over the top rope, springboarding into a searing European uppercut! The PSYCHO CRUSHER! Blood sprays from the impact!
Keaton DIVES onto Sharpe, hooking the leg for the count, smiling ear-to-manic-ear.
ONE...
TWO...
NO!!!
Jordan Freakin' Sharpe is still alive! He flops over from the momentum of his own kickout, sprawling almost out onto the apron, both hands limply going to the bottom rope as if he doesn't know where he is. Keaton screams in fury and frustration, bringing his forehead down onto the canvas over and over, both competitors' blood mingling with the blows. He ends the tantrum on his knees, looking across at the rising Sharpe with an obsessive stare. The champion can barely stand, holding up an instinctive guard as he closes back in with the challenger, who rises to meet him with a bitter snarl.
They meet in the center of the ring, trading blows back and forth, Sharpe's unyielding desperation meeting Keaton's crazed stiffness. Both are soaked in blood and sweat, red welts appearing from their striking swap meet as the crowd reaches fever pitch and strives to go beyond. Everyone and their mother is going FERAL for a Jordan Sharpe victory, and it's this that turns the tide in the final innings. JFS eats a body blow into a spinning forearm that almost drops him, but he reverses his momentum to fall onto the challenger, seizing underhooks, bridging backwards to send a bloody, near-exhausted Keaton stumbling once more into the corner.
Both have given too much, Sharpe shaking as he pushes himself back to vertical base, Keaton flopping drunkenly against the corner post. Jordan manages to rise, walks on jelly legs toward the challenger, half-lunging, half-falling into a knee to the gut that garners a satisfying choking noise. With eighty thousand cheering him on, Sharpe gets a grip - on the situation and on Keaton, hauling the former Paragon up onto the corner post, following him in a dreamlike daze...
Finally, both men stand above the ring, and JFS winds his opponent's arms into the full nelson. Keaton survived a Sharpeknife - but can he survive one from on high?
The fans are still holding their breath when the answer is provided; he won't have to. Keaton twists, frees an arm at the last instant, and drives the tip of his elbow back into Sharpe's jaw. The momentum carries the Wicked through a full one-eighty as he drops from the top rope, landing looking up at JFS' silhouette in the bright lights. The champion wobbles, but hasn't gone down!
Keaton springs upward, one boot finding the ropes, the other the post...
In spite of themselves, in spite of their desires, the crowd can't help but EXPLODE as suddenly the Wicked's right foot smashes into the back of Jordan Freakin' Sharpe's freakin' brain. The sound of the top-rope enzuigiri striking is like a thunderclap from the heavens, and Sharpe falls forward into the ring seemingly unconscious! Keaton is laughing, landing gut-first across the ropes and slithering off to stand, feet spread, over the broken form of the champion. His face a crimson mask.
Getting two handfuls of hair, James Keaton wrenches Jordan half off the mat, and with a hoarse, determined roar he locks in his Japanese stranglehold, sitting into the WICKED CLUTCH! They're close to the ropes, hope still burns... but as Toyo Yasahiro steps in to check on the champion...
Jordan Sharpe isn't moving. There's nobody home.
DING DING DING
Dobrev: Your winner, via technical submission, and the NEW EWC North American Champion ... "THE WICKED" JAAAAAMES KEEEATOOOON!!!
The official is forced to prise the competitors apart, as Keaton refuses to relinquish his hold on the unconscious former champion, licking his bloodied lips as he sinks deep into Jordan's lower back. It's only when the stunned, outraged reaction of the crowd reaches his ears that the former Paragon finally allows Yasahiro to pull him away. He releases what remains of Jordan Sharpe and staggers over his broken body, shaking head-to-toe, first with the fury of adrenaline and then with maniacal laughter as his arm is raised in victory.
Watson: I... I'm a little speechless. We have just witnessed the dawning of a new era here at Paramount, and the downfall of a man I think we all believed would hold that title for what remains of the year. He won it at WrestleFest, but against all the odds, and a heaping of punishment onto James Keaton, Jordan Sharpe loses at Uprising.
Sydney: And loses clean, Woo! Just like he said, he's a hateful, spiteful bastard! Keaton knew this was his moment to SHINE! There's no rest for the Wicked, and it's Sharpe who's forced to take a dirt nap. The Sharppreciation Tour is over, and I for one couldn't be happier about it!
The Strong Style grappler has toppled JFS and reached the pinnacle of Paramount by becoming the NEW North American Champion. He demands the referee to give him both of his titles but before he can get to them Marcu$ $t. John grabs the titles and holds both of them in each hand. He congratulates Keaton on a hard-earned victory and walks up the steps with the CW Broadcast Championship in his left hand and the North American Title in his right. He shoves the CW Title into Keaton’s chest then holds the NA Title into both of his hands and looks down at it. M$J looks back up at Keaton and then over to the referee who tells him not to start any trouble. Marcu$ hands the title over to the referee without taking his eyes off of “The Wicked”. The tension between the two warriors who had teamed together at YoungBlood III was at a fever pitch. Before things explode, Marcu$ walks out of the ring and backs up the ramp with his eyes still locked on his future opponent. Indicating that a clash would happen sooner rather than later.
Watson: Strong statement here by The Young Mogul... When will we see these two collide for the North American Championship?! We will have to find out! Folks, we are COMPLETELY out of time here tonight but for Cid Sydney, This is Tim Watson saying "Thanks for joining the UPRISING!!!"
Uprising comes to a close with James Keaton looking on as M$J retreats up the ramp. Keaton stands with the North American Broadcast Champioonchip over one should, and the CW Broadcast Championship over the other.
END SCREEN
WARNING: UNAUTHORIZED INTERCEPTION OR RECEIPT PROHIBITED!!
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UNAUTHORIZED VIEWERS BEWARE AND BE FOREWARNED!
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SEGMENT WRITERS
Marcu$ $t. John
TheSouthernExpress
Xavier Reid
EPFTW!
Ace King
Ibuki Ito
Bear and Grace
Marcu$ $t. John
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MATCH WRITERS
MATCH ONE
WRITER: Bear and Grace
MATCH TWO
WRITER: @themiracle
MATCH THREE
WRITER: Bear and Grace
MATCH FOUR
WRITER: PARAMOUNT
MATCH FIVE
WRITER: Chunks of Darna Dare
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RECAP OF WINNERS
TAG TEAM SHOWCASE
The Hawaiian Hunters Vs The Halo Syndicate
WINNERS: and #1 contenders the EWC World Tag Team Championships: The Halo Syndicate
...
SINGLES MATCH
Johnny Maelstrom Vs Adriana Aquilla
WINNER: Johnny Maelstrom
...
SINGLES MATCH
Marcu$ $t. John Vs Nevaeh
WINNER: And NEW number one contender to the EWC North American Championship: Marcu$ $t. John
...
SINGLES MATCH
FOR THE EWC UNDISPUTED CHAMPIONSHIP
Asriel Buzzard Vs Killjoy Ito
WINNER: and STILL EWC Undisputed Champion: Killjoy Ito
...
SINGLES MATCH
FOR THE EWC NORTH AMERICAN CHAMPIONSHIP
"The Wicked" James Keaton Vs Jordan Freakin' Sharep
WINNER: And NEW EWC North American Champion: "The Wicked" James Keaton
...
...............................................................................................................…
MVP OF THE NIGHT: Ibuki Ito
MATCH OF THE NIGHT: Asriel Buzzard Vs Ibuki Ito
© EXTREME WRESTLING CORPORATION 2022
