Post by PARAMOUNT on Mar 20, 2024 21:16:14 GMT -6
The Extreme Wrestling Corporation Presents
“Superstar” by For Squirrels begins to blast over the arena speakers as our feed comes to life...
The fans packing the Movistar Arena Bogota, tonight all come to their feet. Further explosions rock the very foundation of the arena as a large video screen is lowered from the rafters, stopping 15 feet above the ring! Everyone in Bogota knows that the self-proclaimed greatest show on Wednesday night is about to begin and they cheer accordingly! The heavy riffs from 'Superstar' continue to blare over the arena, setting the tone for what is to come later on this evening.
** Soda City Becomes Paramount! **
EPISODE #42
EPISODE #42
MARCHH 20TH, 2024
LIVE! from the Movistar Arena Bogota - Bogota, ColumbiaWARNING: This live event contains strong coarse language (L), and intense violence (V) which may be unsuitable for younger viewers. None of the matches you are about to watch have been predetermined. Only some of the thematic story-lines have been discussed beforehand. Accordingly, EWC and it's producers must insist that no one attempt to recreate or re-enact any match or activity performed in this live event.
“Superstar” by For Squirrels begins to blast over the arena speakers as our feed comes to life...
The scene immediately cuts to a pyro show erupting on the outside of the Movistar Arena Bogota!
Then a cut to another, equally explosive show on the inside!
Then a cut to another, equally explosive show on the inside!
The fans packing the Movistar Arena Bogota, tonight all come to their feet. Further explosions rock the very foundation of the arena as a large video screen is lowered from the rafters, stopping 15 feet above the ring! Everyone in Bogota knows that the self-proclaimed greatest show on Wednesday night is about to begin and they cheer accordingly! The heavy riffs from 'Superstar' continue to blare over the arena, setting the tone for what is to come later on this evening.
IT'S ALL I WANT, IT'S ALL I NEED
IT'S ALL I SEE, IT'S ALL I BREATHE
IT'S WHAT I AM, IT'S WHAT'S I KNOW
IT'S WHAT I FEEL, IT'S WHAT I BLEED!
IT'S ALL I SEE, IT'S ALL I BREATHE
IT'S WHAT I AM, IT'S WHAT'S I KNOW
IT'S WHAT I FEEL, IT'S WHAT I BLEED!
On the Extreme-Tron, this episode of Paramount Wrestling begins with its opening video montage detailing many of the historic events that have taken place in the five-year history of Future Stars of Wrestling, setting the tone for the history of the Orange brand. From past champions like Jason Hunter, Dixie Dubois, Amis Shelton, Magdalena Lockheart, and Otaki all standing underneath an old FSW logo to the more current Future Stars Champions like Xavier Reid, Cletus Franklin, Melody Malone, Robina Hood, Robbie Rayder, Stitches, Candy, and Wes Walker tearing down that mold, showing the Paramount Wrestling Logo...
As more pyro goes off the Paramount Wrestling logo appears and flashes of the roster appear on the screen such as Marcu$ $t. John, Xavier Reid, SONYA, Sakura Yamamoto, Jack Hart, Tanja Devereaux, Shaker Jones, Adriana Aquilla, El Pablo, Brett Kennedy, Apollo Polamalu, Carrie Samson, Grace Holt, Raca Jakodi, and Rick Rampage. The final images shown are a montage of Sally Talfourd, the EWC Undisputed Championship around her waist, JoJo Rush with the EWC Hardcore Championship over his shoulder and the EWC International championship around his waist, the Heat Packers holding the EWC World Tag Team Championships aloft, Cosmo Goldworthy posing with the EWC Unites States title over his shoulder, Amber Lisa holding up with Dynasty championship in both hands, The Lad proudly sporting the EWC TV Championship around his waist and finally Ibuki Ito and the EWC North American championship high over his head.
The camera pans around the loud and out of control audience. As the fireworks continue to explode, the fans chant and cheer! Cameras pan around the arena to catch some of the signage that many fans have brought to Movistar Arena Bogota with them here tonight. The Paramount Wrestling fan-base is as adamant about having their voices heard now as ever:
"XAVIER REID MY SIGN!"
"AMBER WILL BEAT YOU BLACK AND BLUE"
"CAN MARCU$ LAST 15 MINUTES WITH TANJA?"
"RR V AA? ALLITTERATION RULES! "
"I'VE BET MY DAUGHTER'S COLLEGE FUND ON A SONYA WIN!!"
"PAR-A-MOUNT!!!"
"PARA-A-MOUNT!!!"
"PARA-A-MOUNT!!!"
"PAR-A-MOUNT!!!"
"PARA-A-MOUNT!!!"
"PARA-A-MOUNT!!!"
"PAR-A-MOUNT!!!"
The lights come back to full and the fans offer one last rousing cheer at the opening festivities. Tonight's announcers are on standby and ready for the show to begin.
Watson: Good evening and welcome to the 42nd episode of Paramount Wrestling! We are coming to you live from Movistar Arena in Soda City! Bogota, Columbia!. My name is Tim Watson and with my as always is Cid Sydney. We have an amazing show in store for you all tonight!
Sydney: It's great to be back with another episode of Paramount Wrestling! What a show this promises to be!
Watson: We open up with the fun to say: Rick Rampage versus Adriana Aquilla which should be a hell of a contest. Following that we have Amber Lisa taking on the returning Brett Kennedy! Then, Interbrand Insanity is what is promised when Xavier Reid takes on Monday Night Brawl's Emmanuelle!
Sydney: Those sound like some cracking clashes!
Watson: That's not all. The EWC Television Championship is on the line when SONYA tries to pry the championship from the grasp of The Lad, who is going for his FOURTH successful defense! The final two fights on the schedule tonight are part of the Marcu$ $t. John invitational as we make our way to the North American championship match at StrangleMania! First, we have Tanja Devereaux against Marcu$ $t John and, in our main event, Apollo Polamalu versus Ibuki Ito! Both of those will be 15 minute time limit matches!
Sydney: We have all this and SO MUCH MORE! Our first match of the night will be coming up right after this quick message from EWCTV. Don't go anywhere .. Paramount Wrestling action will be back in exactly 1 minute
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Along with being an EWCTV Subscriber, you get:
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Narumi is backstage in the Shinijoshi locker room watching a video of Manami Toyota at Destiny Climax from 1995 when Renee Jonae walks in.
Narumi: I see, naturally these are the heroes that Lad fellow sees we emulate.
Renee: Narumi, where have you been?
Narumi continues focusing on the video, her oni eyes drawn to something, but she replies to Renee nonetheless.
Narumi: What do you mean? I’m here, aren’t I? To support Sonya before her championship match and help you with what you got with Amber.
Renee: No, your Fighter Talk timeline and the Prime card. Forget Toyota for a second, everyone knows you want to be the greatest of all time like her, but take a look at this.
Yet Narumi’s eyes were not on Toyota to begin with as she watched the two joshi wrestle. Renee pulls out a tablet and pushes it in front of Narumi, showing the Prime card and Fighter Talk as Narumi’s eyes go wide in surprised anger as she sees she’s been made to team with Emmanuelle and Amber had shown concern on social media.
Narumi: WHAT IS THIS!? HOW DID EMMY GET THIS MATCH MADE!?
The Onihime is stewing and Renee realizes that Narumi won’t be helpful now, thus the Caribbean mystic decides to give her yokai associate some space.
Renee: Okay, you stay here and try to gather yourself, poppet. I will figure out myself what is going on with Tanja going after Amber.
Renee leaves the locker room and is met by Tanja with Celeste standing behind her. The bright blue eyes were present, which was rare as of late.
Tanja: I understand that you are guiding Amber as of late but you should know full well that my heart and soul are not as dark as you think. Things may have changed for me recently but that does not mean I am still not the protector like I said recently.
Celeste: Do not allow her to chastise you old friend. You may show the darker side of the path of the Crossroads and the path of life and death to the world but I have seen how you are the protector of our world against those who think differently of us and the Bayous.
Renee momentarily turns her eyes to Celeste, Renee’s face filling with slight distrust and displeasure while doing so. She then collects herself as she returns her gaze towards Tanja.
Renee: Tanja, I have not always been sure of your choice of company, hopefully she is better for you than the Soulless I recall last. But you yourself I have always believed in. The way you follow and respect the vodou culture is dear to me. Why is it that you choose to focus on showcasing the darker side of the Crossroads, do you not see how the positive path has assisted me in the past and what it has already begun to do with Amber?
Celeste was about to counteract Renee’s words but Tanja stopped her before she spoke.
Tanja: Celeste always wants to have my interests at heart as I replaced her mother as Manaloa of our tribe. The Order of the Soulless may have inspired a darker side to me that I hid away for a long time ago but it is something that cannot be hidden away forever, something you would know full well. I have respected the Voudou ways for too long after it was introduced to me back in New Orleans and I will not allow it to be removed from my heart.
Celeste narrowed her eyes to Tanja but she remained silent.
Tanja: I understand you are trying to help Amber in the path of the positive energy that has helped you and trying to help Amber with it but her darker energy cannot be suppressed forever. Do not involve yourself in my business again in the future in regards to Amber or there will be consequences either by me, the spirit that I call upon for my body, or by Celeste.
Renee pauses at the threat and looks at the duo with weary alert eyes.
Renee: You can call it your business, but it is Amber’s family, her uncle and the sisters of Shinijoshi who accepted her that have asked me to look out for her. Her powers are not for either of us to rule over, I only seek to show her there are other ways and that even destructive energy can be channeled towards doing what is right and making the world a better place. We will see what she and the loa decide.
Renee watches out to be careful around the two and walks away defiantly.
SINGLES MATCH
Rick Rampage
VS Adriana Aquilla
We return to ringside where Tim and Cid are standing by.
Watson: The tale between Tanja Devereaux, Amber Lisa, and the rest of Shinijoshi just keeps taking more twists and turns. Right now, we are going to see two fighters do plenty of twisting and turning! Take us there Isabella Starr!
Starr: The following match is set for one fall. Joining us first, residing in San Antonio, Texas and weighing in at 120 pounds... ADRIANA AQUILLA!
"Iron" by Within Temptation hits the speakers and the crowd comes alive as Adriana Aquilla makes her way down to the ring, she slaps hands with a couple of fans before rolling into the ring ready for her match as she removes her jacket.
Starr: And her opponent…
'Burn' by Three Days Grace begins to play over the PA-System. Rampage comes out, taunting the fans as they boo him. He makes his way down the ramp quickly, sliding into the ring and making his way over to the corner. Rick climbs up onto the second buckle, tossing his arms into the air.
Starr: Now in the ring, hailing from New York, New York...He is The GOLDEN BOY... RICK RAMPAGE!
DING DING DING
Addy runs at Rick who lifts her up and dives her to the mat with an Alabama Slam. Addy slowly gets to her feet and runs at Rick for a clothesline. Rick ducks and knocks Addy down with one of his own. She staggers to her feet where Rick grabs Addy and brings her crashing down with a spinebuster. He hooks the legs as he covers her.
ONE…
TWO…
THR… NO! KICK OUT!
Addy lifts a shoulder off the mat to break the count. Rick lifts Addy off the mat and up for a gorilla press but Addy manages to counter with a DDT. Rick gets to his feet but a DDT drops him flat to the mat. Addy throws herself back with a standing moonsault. She crashes down and hooks the leg.
ONE…
TWO…
THR… NO! KICK OUT!
Rick pushes his way free to break the count rolling to his front in the process.
Watson: I thought that was it!
Sydney: You maybe. Rick Rampage clearly didn’t!
Both get to their feet where Addy fires at Rick with a superkick. Rick blocks it and shoves her foot away. Addy spins on her feet and smacks Rick on the back of the head with a ghettoblaster. That drops Rick to the mat. Addy runs at him smacking Rick with a Divine Wizard. Addy gets to her feet and looks down at Rick before leaping into the air crashing down on him with a standing Addy Star Press. She hooks the leg.
ONE…
TWO…
THR… NO! KICK OUT!
Rick rolls to his side breaking the count. Addy rolls to the apron and springs into the ring for a Hoja de Honda. Rick ducks and Addy crashes to the mat. She pulls herself to her feet but Rick runs catching Addy with a Golden Boot. Rick falls against the ropes. He turns and charges back at Addy hitting The Rampage. He hooks the leg.
ONE…
TWO…
THR… NO! KICK OUT!
Addy rolls onto her front to break the count.
Watson: Half a second away!
Sydney: What one? Addy from that Addy Press or Rampage from the Rampage?
Rick lifts Addy off the mat. He lifts her up for a Golden Standard but Addy manages to counter with a hurricanrana. Addy smacks Rick on the back of the head with a dropkick. She pulls herself to the mat and drops down on Rick with a Divine Grace. At the last second he rolls to safety and Addy crashes to canvas. Rick lifts her and crashes her to the mat with a Golden Standard. He hooks the leg as the referee counts.
ONE…
TWO…
THREE!!!
DING DING DING
Starr: And here is your winner, via pinfall RICK RAMPAGE!
Rick climbs up onto the second buckle, tossing his arms into the air before leaping over the top rope and heading up the ramp.
Watson: Adriana Aquilla may have countered one of those powerbombs but she’s not going to counter a second one! Rick Rampage picks up a really big win so early into his EWC career!
Sydney: Adriana Aquilla fought until the end. She did very well do counter that first powerbomb and had she connected with that Divine Grace this match could still have gone Aquilla’s way here tonight!
Watson: We have so much more to come folks, we will be right back after this!
Camera cuts to ...
The camera fades from in the ring to a medium shot of Lisa Goldrush backstage, smiling to the camera. Behind her is a white brick wall, with the PARAMOUNT logo. A quick second, before Goldrush lifts a microphone to her mouth.
Goldrush: Ladies and Gentlemen, my guest at this time, who wanted time to speak with me - Brett Kennedy!
The camera backs up and pans up and to the right to emerge the figure of Brett Kennedy - wearing a black leather jacket with a white X-Men t-shirt underneath. Chewing gum obnoxiously and with a smirk, Kennedy looks at Lisa Goldrush as she points the mic towards him.
Kennedy: Lisa, I appreciate you taking the time, especially when you were running around in Quito, finding people to talk to. I thought I would just get to you first, so you didn't have to waste precious calories on your pretty little legs trying to find someone early tonight.
Lisa gives him a long stare, followed by a smile, while slightly disingenuous, tries to hide it so Kennedy doesn't notice. While Kennedy shuffles something out of his jacket pocket, Goldrush takes the mic back
Goldrush: While... I appreciate the kind words, and I, on behalf of the EWC welcome you back to Paramount, why did you want some time with me before your match with Amber Lisa?
Kennedy quickly takes the mic from her after the utterance of Amber Lisa's name, but in a peaceful manner - he places his hands around the one hand of Goldrush's, with one hand holding a folded piece of paper and looks at her closer.
Kennedy: ...May I?
Kennedy slowly pulls the microphone up and from the grasp of Goldrush's hand, and he takes the mic close to his face.
Kennedy: It'll only be a few minutes, I promise. I won't take much of your time. Camera man, pan to me - medium shot.
The cameraman does so - we get a clear middle shot of Kennedy, jacket, shirt and all.
Kennedy: I just wanted to take this time to welcome everyone back to the World of Kennedy. I know, I know, it's been a long while since my face has been seen around these parts, but I just wanted to get a little bit of everyone's attention before I stepped out to the ring, and made my in-ring return to EWC grounds against your 'glorious' Dynasty Champion.
Kennedy starts unruffling the paper that was in his hand and unfolding it, but only showing the blank white back of the paper.
Kennedy: Now, I had a six year old over in the downtown streets - well, I think he was six. He was a little malnourished, and looked like he needed five bucks, so I gave it to him. Thankfully, he knew enough English to understand what I wanted him to draw. Now, before you start, I know that I gave him five American bucks, but he can go to a shop and still use it, it can be converted. Anyways, I feel like I'm getting off track. Like I was saying, I got this kid to make a quick drawing for me, basically what he thinks will happen in the next... oh, I don't know, five to ten minutes from now, depending on the air conditioning of the arena. To my surprise, this is what he drew for me!
Kennedy takes the mic to his right hand, and with his other hand, holds the top of the paper, and flips it over for the camera to see;
Kennedy: Now, if we can all see this properly, and using the Amber Lisa Art Methodology™, I see this as myself giving the smaller, and more miniscule Lisa a one stop statement to knowing The Buck Stops Here. This isn't what I originally thought of doing, but I might do it for the kid. Gracias, amigo.
Knowing he blatantly spoke the incorrect language in Columbia, Brett chuckles a bit, before crumpling the paper into a ball in his hand and throwing it behind him - the ball ricocheting off the wall, and onto the floor.
Kennedy: Amber, let's get one thing perfectly clear before we step into the ring, and have the most... well, interesting match out there - I could give a flying rat's ass about your fifteen pound paperweight that you hold. As far as that is concerned, I'm not looking for points to reach atop of the ladder. And, you can throw away the idea of me hunting for the United States Championship - you should know where my eyes are set for at this stage.
Kennedy places his hand and holds it above his head.
Kennedy: Higher. In order to bring this 'Legitimacy' back to Paramount and the EWC, I need to set my sights on something bigger than a newly baptized title, something bigger than what Paramount can bring me. It's gotta be something that the whole EWC will look at and say 'Hey, he might be onto something now that he's got this'. I'm sure you can put two and two together.
Kennedy wipes off the small amount of sweat that has developed around his mouth, and gets back to pointing and talking.
Kennedy: This will be my first match back to Paramount in three years, we know the story by now, but if I will ever get moving forward to where I want to be, I need to breeze past you, and get to bigger and better things. Do I expect you to put up a fight? Sure, it might be fruitless for you, but I expect it. But, at the end of the day, when a bear comes flying at you, it cowers over a larger, more imposing figure. I am that larger figure, and that will prove to be your fatal flaw tonight. I will bring a fire that you haven't seen yet in your career, and when you wake up, and the bright, overheating lights come blaring at you, that self-doubt will creep in.
Kennedy: Simply put, Amber, you're not ready for what's to come, just minutes from now. You think you'll be capable of overcoming whatever odds that you're giving yourself in this matchup, but at the end of the day, nothing you will bring will be enough to stop me. And when that doubt, and that loss of control creeps in, you will ask yourself 'Am I the Future, or am I going to be an Afterthought?'. Doubt me, or doubt yourself, and your fate is Sealed... with My Approval.
Kennedy turns slightly, back to Lisa Goldrush, who has stayed there the whole time, and gives the microphone back to her, as he puts his hands together and bows to her
Kennedy: Thank you, Ms. Goldrush, I know I didn't let you talk a lot, but I just needed this time. I hope your night is as beautiful as you are.
Kennedy smiles at Goldrush, who is confused, and doesn't know how exactly to react. Kennedy walks away from the camera's sight, and it pans back to Goldrush, who changes her face from a slight smile, to complete bewilderment.
Goldrush: Folks, I don't know what to make of this newer Brett Kennedy, but he's definitely got his eyes for big things. Let's get back to the ring.
The camera fades to a commercial for Paramount #43 from Lima, Peru!
SINGLES MATCH
NON-TITLE
Brett Kennedy
VS Amber Lisa
We return to ringside where the commentary team is standing by.
Watson: Welcome back to Paramount Wrestling folks! Up next we have a champion facing off against a returning EWC superstar! This should be a good one!
Starr: The following match is set for one fall. Joining us first, residing in Asheville, North Carolina and weighing in at 252 pounds... BRETT KENNEDY!
Static sounds emanate the arena
'WORLD' (in one man's voice)
More static...
'OF' (in a different voice)
Even More static...
'KENNEDY!' (In Brett Kennedy's voice)
'Rise Up' by Sum 41 hits the arena, with flashing lights matching the first two guitar strokes of the song. The lights continue to match the lead guitar until the lyric;
'I TOLD YOU I'D RISE UP!'
All the lights then focus to the front of the entrance ramp, where Kennedy is, his back to the crowd, arms out spread wide. After a short second, Kennedy turns around and walks down the ramp and to the ring, jaw jacking with anyone yelling at him in the front row.
Starr: And the opponent, from Brooklyn, New York and weighing in at 136 pounds... AMBER LISA!
Run It came blasting over the speakers as Amber stood on the top of the ramp with her leather jacket on with a smirk across her face. She comes out playing to the crowd a bit before she climbs inside of the ring. She takes off her jacket with a smile looking over at the opponents with a grin ready to start. Outside on ringside her Uncle is just walking down with her with a bit of a smirk on his face shaking his head while she play to the crowd a bit.
DING DING DING
Both circle each other. Amber smacks Brett hard across the chest with a backhand chop. Amber smacks him with a second one before whipping Brett off the ropes. Amber pops Brett into the air spinning him over with a powerslam. She pulls Brett to his feet and cracks him with a headbutt to his face. It spins him around allowing Amber to lift him bringing Brett down to the mat with a German suplex. She bridges into a pin.
ONE…
TWO…
THR… NO! KICK OUT!
Brett lifts a shoulder off the mat breaking the count. Amber lifts Brett to his feet but he quickly counters taking Amber to the mat with a spinebuster. Amber gets back to her feet but Brett hits a spinning backfist that staggers Amber. Brett runs off the ropes and knocks Amber down to the mat with a lariat. Brett looks down at her before going round and hitting Garvin stomps to the wrists, ankles and guts. He makes a cover.
ONE…
TWO…
THR… NO! KICK OUT!
Amber pushes her way free to break the count.
Watson: That was a good kick out! There was a lot of weight behind those stomps!
Sydney: Amber Lisa will be hurting in the morning from those alone never mind the rest of the match!
Both get to their feet. Brett manages to scoop Amber up onto his shoulders in a fireman’s carry. Brett spins Amber pulling her to the mat with Head Stamp City. He rolls Amber over and hooks the leg.
ONE…
TWO…
THR… NO! KICK OUT!
Amber rolls to her side breaking the count. Brett sits in the ring looking furious. Brett gets to his feet and stands in the corner as he waits for Amber to get to her feet. Brett runs looking for The Buck Stops Here. Amber spins and smacks Brett in the face with… Smack In Your Face. Brett crumples to the mat where Amber makes a cover.
ONE…
TWO…
THR… NO! KICK OUT!
Brett lifts a shoulder off the mat as he rolls to his side breaking the count.
Watson: I think his teeth landed on our table after that backfist and yet Brett Kennedy kicks out!
Sydney: I do not know how! He was out! Out to the point there’s a pool of his drool where he lay snoozing!
Amber gets to her feet and runs off the ropes dropping down onto Brett with a senton knocking the wind out of him. Amber stands in the corner and waits as Brett pulls himself to his feet. She charges looking for Run It. Brett sidesteps it and he grabs Amber for a BK’s Seal Of Approval. Amber manages to counter it with a Fat Back. She rolls him over and hooks the leg. The referee counts.
ONE…
TWO…
THREE!!!
DING DING DING
Starr: And your winner, via pinfall AMBER LISA!
Amber kneel in the ring and runs her hand through her hair. She looks stunned. Tired, but stunned. She gets to her feet and raises her arms in victory before climbing to the middle turnbuckle and celebrating with the fans.
Watson: Amber Lisa with a big win here on Paramount! She took everything Brett Kennedy could dish out and still she picks up the win!
Sydney: I’m sure we will see more of Brett Kennedy as this season moves on but this was a good showing at this early stage. He went looking for his finisher toward the end and had he hit that, it would have been the icing on the cake for him tonight!
Watson: maybe so, but for now Amber Lisa keeps the wins coming and adds another two points to her rankings. We will be right back folks!
Camera cuts to a commercial for Monday Night Brawl from Atlanta, Georgia!
SINGLES MATCH
INTERBRAND INSANITY!
Emmanuelle
VS Xavier Reid
We return to ringside where the Columbian crowd is getting excited to see the next match!
Watson: Welcome back to Paramount. It's time for Interbrand Insanity! Former members of the same roster, now rivals as Brawl takes on Paramount!
Starr: The following match is set for one fall. Joining us first, residing in Pacific Palisades, Los Angeles, California and weighing in at an approximate 135 pounds... EMMANUELLE!
‘B.I.T.C.H.’ by Megan Thee Stallion plays as Emmanuelle steps through the curtain and casually walks down the ramp. At the bottom of the ramp, she holds her arms out to her sides before dropping to one knee. After a moment she heads up the steps to the apron and steps through the ropes. Emmanuelle stands in the middle of the ring and raises an arm in the air before holding them out to her sides.
Starr: And her opponent…
The spotlights inside the arena start to flash around the crowd as 'Papercut' starts to play out. Xavier Reid walks out onto the stage and pulls his t-shirt off and drops it on the stage. Bunny Love follows him out onto the stage to cheers. Xavier walks to the front of the stage and crosses his arms into an X in front of his chest and smirks as Bunny walks up from behind him and points to the ring. Xavier and Bunny walk towards the ring, climb up the steps and into the ring. Xavier goes to the far corner and jumps up to the second rope and looks out over the fans as Bunny walks to the center of the ring and points at Xavier.
Starr: Being accompanied to the ring by Bunny Love, from Edmonton, Alberta Canada, weighing in at 220 pounds... XAVIER REID!
DING DING DING
Reid charges at Emmanuelle but he runs into a big boot. Both get to their feet but Emmanuelle grabs Reid pulling him to the mat with an armdrag takedown. Emmanuelle tries to apply a cross armbreaker but Reid is able to get a foot onto the rope breaking the hold before it’s applied. Reid gets back to his feet but Emmanuelle takes him down with a discus lariat. She hooks the leg.
ONE…
TWO…
THR… NO! KICK OUT!
Reid lifts a shoulder off the mat breaking the count. Both get to their feet. Before Emmanuelle can instigate another attack, Reid slaps her hard across the face staggering her back. Reid leaps back hitting Emmanuelle with a Pele kick. Emmanuelle stagger dropping to one knee. She regains her footing but Reid takes her over with a reverse frankensteiner. He rolls Emmanuelle over and makes a cover.
ONE…
TWO…
THR… NO! KICK OUT!
Emmanuelle lifts a shoulder off the mat breaking the count.
Watson: Close one there!
Sydney: I don’t know how she kicked out. I swear I saw the top of her head hit that mat!
Reid pulls Emmanuelle to her feet, underhooks her arms and lifts her up. Reid brings Emmanuelle crashing down with a Love Shot. He makes a cover.
ONE…
TWO…
THR… NO! KICK OUT!
A toe on the bottom rope is all that breaks the count. Reid lifts Emmanuelle to her feet but she grabs him hitting a desperation DDT. Reid starts to pull himself off the mat but Emmanuelle smacks him with an EMS. Reid drops to the mat. Emmanuelle rolls him over and hooks the leg.
ONE…
TWO…
THR… NO! KICK OUT!
Reid rolls to his side breaking the count.
Watson: Emmanuelle was half a count from a win right there!
Sydney: Reid’s nose is half an inch to the right after that knee!
Emmanuelle lifts Reid up for a Queen Bee Drop. Reid manages to slip off Emmanuelle’s shoulders. Reid lifts Emmanuelle up onto his shoulders. He brings Emmanuelle crashing to the canvas with a Bastard Bomb. Reid sits on Emmanuelle’s chest as he hooks the leg. The referee counts.
ONE…
TWO…
THREE!!!
DING DING DING
Starr: And your winner, via pinfall XAVIER REID!
Reid climbs to the middle turnbuckle holding his arms in the air in victory.
Watson: What a match that was! Xavier Reid picking up the victory here tonight!
Sydney: He was lucky! Emmanuelle lifted him up for the Queen Bee Drop and you and I both know that he’s getting planted in the ring had she hit that!
Watson: and inch or a mile, a win is a win and Reid picks up an all important two points in the Paramount Power Rankings here tonight! We still have so much more to come, including a title match! Don't go anywhere folks!
Camera cuts to ...
SINGLES MATCH
FOR THE EWC TELEVISION CHAMPIONSHIP
SONYA
VS The Lad
We return to ringside where all eyes are fixated on the ring for the night’s only championship match.
Watson: Lad makes his fourth defense of the Television Championship in just this month alone, and it’s his toughest defense to date as Sonya looks to finally obtain championship gold!
Starr: The following match is scheduled for one fall and it is for the EWC Television Championship! Joining us first, from Honolulu, Hawaii, weighing in at 150 pounds ... ”THE BEAUTIFUL BATTLESHIP” SONYA!
As the first few notes of "Rusalka" play over the loudspeakers, Sonya stands just a few feet away from the entrance way, the cameras picking up her peaceful expression and smile. The song kicks into high gear and she makes her way to the ring with determined eyes and calm demeanor, stepping into the ring and performing her signature pose in the corner.
Starr: And her opponent, from Hell's Kitchen, New York, weighing in at 223 pounds ... HE IS THE EWC TELEVISION CHAMPION ... THE LAD!
As the infectious beat from "Exhibit C" by Jay Electronica comes on, The Lad steps out from behind the curtain. Massaging his wrist, he stares out to the world before him. He puts up a quiet prayer before marching down the ramp. He offers quick high-fives to those who put out their hands. With his head lowered, he looks at the ring and hits the stairs. Once on the ring apron, he pays his respects by cleaning his feet. When he gets in the ring, he goes to his corner and waits.
DING DING DING
The bell rings and both rise to the pressure of this match. They immediately engage in a collar and elbow tie-up, and Sonya shoves Lad back. Lad shakes his head, looking to tie up again - but Sonya doesn’t waste time going in with Lad’s wrestling and chops him! She chops him again! Then she meets him with an elbow strike! Lad staggers but throws one of his own! He keeps firing, but so does she! We’ve already got a brawl going in the early goings of this match! Lad digs his hands around Sonya’s thighs, trying for a double leg but she starts clubbing at his back! That doesn’t stop Lad, who starts to power her up – only for Sonya to bring him right back down and take him for a front facelock! She tries a vertical suplex but Lad floats behind and takes the waist. She stomps his toe, then throws repeated elbows to the side of the head. Lad releases the grip on her waist and she hits off the ropes, only for Lad to charge into a beautiful knee to the ribs! Lad takes Sonya’s wrist and Irish whips her off, swinging a lariat – but Sonya catches the arm and ducks under, lifting him up for a back suplex only for Lad to land behind her! She turns back and Lad gets her with a dropkick! She rises and Lad gets her with another dropkick! She rises a third time and Lad goes for that third dropkick but Sonya catches him by the legs and drops his back to the mat!
She reaches for his legs but Lad furiously kicks her away. She skids backwards, rolling to her feet. Lad rises and she staggers him with a shoulder block that sends him into the corners. She follows up with repeated shoulder thrusts to the ribs. Lad winces in pain, then Sonya takes his wrist and hammer whips him across the ring into the turnbuckles! Lad bounces out, holding his back and Sonya nearly takes his head off with a nasty boot! She may not be bigger or stronger in this battle, but she sure has length working for her so far! Sonya drags Lad up and nails him with an elbow strike. She gets him with another. Lad is dazed and she bounces off the ropes! She boots Lad, turning him to grab his waist for a German suplex! Lad rubs the back of his head, struggling to get back up to his feet. Sonya kicks Lad in the ribs, hooking his head and the leg for a fisherman’s suplex! This time, she bridges it!
ONE...
TWO...
LAD KICKS OUT!
Sonya learned from her first mistake with the German suplex but it appears not to matter as Lad is still in this one. Sonya reaches over for Lad and slowly pulls him up. She tries to scoop him over her shoulder but he easily lands behind. He charges right into a chop block! Sonya goes down, holding at her leg. Lad grabs at her leg and starts kicking the calf. He then intertwines his leg with hers, dropping back into an Indian Deathlock! Sonya yells out in pain, as Lad wrenches back on the hold! Sonya runs her hands through her hair, struggling to withstand the pain. Lad continues to intensify the pressure being put on Sonya’s legs, as she tries her hardest to start slapping at his leg and trying to break the grip. Regardless, it doesn’t work as Lad continues to apply pain upon her legs! Sonya plants her hands on the mat, scooting backwards where she reaches out to finally get the ropes! Lad releases the hold immediately and she rolls over, nursing her ankles in pain. He places his hand on the top rope, and starts stomping furiously at her legs! She reaches to them, wincing out in pain. Lad drags Sonya up and nails her with an European uppercut. Lad then reaches for Sonya’s leg, trying for a dragon screw legwhip..
But before he can get it, Sonya hobbles on one leg to nail him with an enziguri in the back of the head! Sonya goes down, but winces out in pain as she lands directly on her knee. Lad, on the other hand, is on his fours after that kick. He’s nursing his wounds, but so is Sonya. Sonya rolls out on her feet to try and walk out the pain, but she’s limping instead. Lad sees this and smells blood in the water, rolling out with her. He sneaks behind, grabbing at Sonya, but she reverses the grab and throws Lad into the apron! Lad winces out in pain, as Sonya starts throwing repeated chops! Lad shakes his head, wrapping his arms around Sonya and ramming her into the barricades! Sonya holds her back, wincing in pain. Lad then grabs Sonya by the head and turns the two. He starts to lift her up, but she reverses the lift! Sonya starts to lift Lad up..
..AND SHE SUPLEXES HIM INTO THE BARRICADE!
Both immediately go down and Lad clutches at his back and also the top of his head following the nasty spill to the floor from just Sonya releasing her grip at the end! Lad clutches his body in pain, while Sonya is trying to recover herself after banging into the barricade.
Watson: And Sonya just suplexed Lad into the barricades! What a vicious move!
Sydney: That was absolutely disgusting! I mean, how often do you see something like that? Sonya may be tapping into a different side of herself to win this match tonight..
Sonya works her way up and grabs Lad up as well. It takes a second for both to get over there, but Sonya shoves him in and she slides in to make the cover as well..
ONE...
TWO...
LAD KICKS OUT!
Sonya shakes her head, as the stalling most likely reduced her chances of getting the win off that. Lad rolls away, clutching his back in agony. Sonya slowly rises and reaches down for Lad’s head.. Lad is slowly pulled to a kneel, but he finds life with a punch to her ribs! He punches her ribs again! Sonya wheezes, but she tries to continue lifting him up.. But Lad drop steps behind, taking her arms! Sonya shakes her head, caught off guard as she gets tossed with a RELEASE TIGER SUPLEX! The suplexes of the champion finally start to come into effect, as Sonya is knocked for a loop.
Lad rises to his feet and crouches over to lift Sonya up slowly.. As Sonya staggers, Lad gets her with a nasty open handed slap! She’s barely up on her feet, as Lad throws another! Sonya is struggling to stand at this rate, and Lad winds back a third slap! Sonya puts her arms up in an attempt to throw guard, but she’s completely lost as Lad swings behind, grabbing the waist to take advantage of her arms nowhere near to block the grip.. AND LIFTS HER FOR A GERMAN SUPLEX! Lad holds on, rolling over! He tries to lift for a second, but Sonya brings him back down! He tries to lift again, and Sonya tries to pull him into a victory roll pin! But Lad drops down to his knees, pressing her shoulders down to the mat for a pin of his own!
ONE...
TWO...
SONYA KICKS OUT!
But as she kicks out, Lad holds onto her legs and starts to deadlift her up in wheelbarrow position.. AND HE TOSSES HER WITH A WHEELBARROW GERMAN SUPLEX! The crowd absolutely loses their shit at that display, and Lad rolls over, starting to breathe heavily. Sonya clutches at the back of her head, dazed. He crawls over to make a cover, but she rolls to the ropes. Lad nods at the smart decision and uses the middle rope to rise. As Sonya is still dazed, she reaches for Lad but to no avail. Lad lifts her up and takes the head. He slaps the side of her head, and then tries to turn her to grab the waist again.. But this time, Sonya holds onto the ropes! Lad tries again, but Sonya elbows him backwards. Lad staggers and Sonya turns around into a chop that rings throughout the building! Lad tries a chop of his own, but Sonya raises her fists up to block it! Lad holds his hand, shaking it out in pain. Sonya smirks, hitting off the ropes for a LARIAT!
That lariat lays Lad out, and Sonya shakes her head, not done. She grabs Lad by the head and pulls him up. She starts firing off repeated elbows to the side of his head, then takes his wrist and furiously Irish whips him off to the ropes. Lad is forced to come off the ropes quick and Sonya scoops him up for a tilt-a-whirl backbreaker! Lad’s back digs right into the knee of Sonya and he drops over in pain, but Sonya falls over as Lad’s weight crashes onto her bad knee! It buckles as she drops into a kneeling position, and Sonya is laid flat on the mat. She clutches at her knee in pain, while Lad is rubbing his still sensitive back.
Both champion and challenger are dealing from hurt body parts, but it’s the challenger who rises first. She limps over to Lad, slowly pulling him up.. But Lad wraps his arms around Sonya’s leg and trips her to her back! Sonya reaches up to Lad, shaking her head and trying to get free, but it’s no use as Lad drops back into a leg DDT! Sonya yelps out in pain, and Lad holds onto the leg as he slowly rises to his feet. He looks to turn over into a single leg Boston crab, but Sonya starts kicking him with the good leg! She keeps kicking him and kicking him, but then he reaches for her other leg.. But before he can get the crab in, Sonya uses what’s left of her lower body strength to flip Lad overhead! Lad goes down, holding that bad back. But Sonya’s fight for her legs did her no good as she’s lying on the mat, groaning. Neither are really showing signs of life, prompting the referee to start a grounded ten count.
ONE!
TWO!
THREE!
FOUR!
Sonya pushes over, starting to crawl to the ropes.
FIVE!
She starts using the ropes, and eventually pulls herself up. Lad slowly starts to rise too, and staggers to Sonya who chops him! He swings an elbow, but Sonya blocks it and elbows him herself! She sees Lad staggered and scoops him up onto her shoulder, IMMEDIATELY dropping into a powerslam! Lad holds his back in pain, and Sonya hooks the legs for the cover!
ONE...
TWO...
LAD KICKS OUT!
Sonya rolls Lad over and slowly rises. She shakes out the pain in her legs and hits off the ropes for a RUNNING KNEE LIFT! Sonya falls to her knees, holding at them. Lad is dazed and confused and she starts to allow adrenaline to pump through her veins, rising up! She claps her hands, getting the crowd into this one as a new champion may be coming. Sonya rolls Lad over and pulls him up by the waistband. She takes the waist, starting to elevate him for the Everest German, but the wear and tear on her knees start to show as she can hardly squat with Lad’s weight for the added momentum! Lad starts to come back to life, and tries to pry out of the hold.. Struggling to lift him, she tries to find momentum elsewhere by pushing to the ropes for an O’Connor Roll, but Lad hangs on. Sonya lets go, staggering backwards.
Lad slowly moves from the ropes and Sonya swings right for his head! Lad ducks under and catches the arm around the back of his head then the waist, SPINNING INTO THE OAK CITY SPECIAL I! THE BLUE THUNDER BOMB CONNECTS, BUT LAD WRAPS HIS ARMS AROUND SONYA’S LEGS AND STARTS TO TWIST OVER INTO A BOSTON CRAB! THE COMBINATION! Sonya yells out in pain, as Lad pulls back on that Boston crab! Her legs are taking a beating, and now so are her ribs! Lad continues to wrench on the hold, Sonya gritting her teeth in pain. She reaches out, unable to get to the ropes! Lad continues to lock that in with all of his might and Sonya starts to crawl, but the distance is holding her back! Lad nods his head furiously, applying as much pressure as he can! Sonya bangs her fist on the mat, reaching out! She continues crawling, and she starts to get closer!
ALMOST THERE!
SHE REACHES..
AND SONYA– NO! LAD STARTS TO PULL HER BACK! But he’s struggling with his grip, and Sonya drops to her side! Lad takes note of this and tries to step over and get her back on her stomach, but Sonya starts to turn entirely! Lad turns with her, trying his hardest to resume the Boston crab how it was, but she reaches down to grab his head and yank Lad down into an inside cradle! The referee immediately makes the slide for the cover!
ONE...
TWO...
LAD KICKS OUT!
Lad just barely gets out in time and both start to rise to their feet.. But as Lad does rise up to his feet, Sonya winds back and throws with all of her might.. THE CLEAN-UP HITTER CONNECTS! Sonya throws that forearm strike with so much power that it DROPS Lad! Lad is laid out on the floor from the contact of the blow, sweat flying out of the ring off impact. Sonya drops down, covering Lad as she desperately tries to wrap this one up!
ONE...
TWO...
T–LAD KICKS OUT!
But once again, Lad kicks out! The resilience of the EWC Television Champion shines brightly as he once again finds a way to overcome the tough offense of his challenger! Sonya rises and rolls Lad over, clubbing the back. She takes the waist and starts to work him upwards, nodding. Lad clutches at the back of his head and reaches out when he realizes what’s about to happen.. Sonya hoists him up high overhead, for the EVEREST SUPLEX! Lad’s neck and shoulders take the brunt of that impact, as Sonya inches upwards for the bridge!
ONE...
TWO...
THR–LAD’S LEG FLAILS ON THE MIDDLE ROPE!
That was close! But from the bridge, the two were just a little closer to the ropes than you’d like and Sonya paid for it as Lad’s leg got the middle rope! Sonya releases him and Lad flops onto his face, breathing heavily.
Watson: Lad saved by the ropes there as that Everest Suplex almost knocked him out! The power of that move was absolutely unbelievable..
Sydney: Sonya has been fighting hard against the champion but she’s still playing this one a little too nice for my liking..
Lad lies there, breathing heavily. Sonya shakes her head, knowing that she was this close to getting the job done. He rolls to the apron and Sonya reaches out for him. She starts to rise to her feet and steps on the middle rope, grabbing at Lad’s head. She starts to pull Lad up, but Lad swats her away and takes her head, slamming it into the top turnbuckle! He takes her head and slams it into the top turnbuckle again! Sonya is still on the middle rope, and starts to inch her way towards the corner to lie against. But as she does that, Lad starts to climb up with her..
Sonya raises her head up and headbutts Lad! Lad staggers at the top turnbuckle, and Sonya chops him. She grabs him by the head and starts throwing vicious elbows, and he’s forced to cover up. Sonya sees Lad covering up and throws a body uppercut. Lad wheezes, coughing out in pain. Sonya wraps her arm around Lad’s head, trying to lift him up.. But Lad punches her in the side! Lad punches her in the side again! He frees himself from her grasp and elbows her! He elbows her again!
These elbows are continuing to pour down on her and she’s dazed.. Lad starts to climb onto the top buckles.. And he looks down. He nods, FRONTROLLING INTO A SUNSET FLIP POWERBOMB OFF THE TOP ROPE! The crowd loses their shit for that one, as Lad goes STRAIGHT into the cover!
ONE...
TWO...
TH–SONYA KICKS OUT!
Lad falls backwards, in shock. Sonya rolls over, coughing out in pain. He slaps the mat, wanting to end this one! Lad sees Sonya still hurt, but his back got banged up from that one too. He rubs at his back while using the ropes to rise. Lad limps over to Sonya, dragging her up. Lad hoists Sonya up in a fireman’s carry, but Sonya elbows him! She elbows him again and slips off. Sonya takes the waist and starts to lift Lad, but Lad back kicks that bad knee! Sonya releases the hold, clutching at her knee in pain. Lad nods, hitting off the ropes as Sonya is dazed into a SHINING WIZARD!
Sonya goes down and Lad quickly rises to his feet! He grabs her up by the head and lifts her. He swings behind, grabbing Sonya into a sleeper hold. Sonya reaches out, wheezing out in pain. Lad uses his submission proficiency as he winds back on that sleeper with precision and power. Sonya reaches for the ropes, but it’s no use as Lad slowly works her body to a seated position as it starts to power out. And as she’s in the seated position, Lad quickly hits off the ropes for THE LONGEST YARD! The penalty kick nearly pierces through the soul of Sonya, as Lad slowly drops into the cover.
ONE...
TWO...
THR–SONYA KICKS OUT!
Watson: Lad gets Sonya with that penalty kick, but she finds a way to kick out! How?!
Sydney: The champ is looking good — but the way Sonya is fighting tonight.. She feels driven for championship gold!
Lad breathes heavily, dragging Sonya up. He takes her by the head and tries to lift her into a fireman’s carry - but Sonya slips off! She grabs Lad waist, looking for that Everest German again! Lad shakes his head, trying to plant his feet in the mat. Sonya struggles, trying for it again! But Lad brings himself back to the ground and back kicks Sonya in the bad knee! Sonya releases the hold, grabbing at her knee. Lad takes her legs and drops her onto her back, trying to get her into that Boston crab..
But Sonya kicks back with all of her might and Lad falls on his bad back! He winces in pain, struggling up to his feet. Sonya rises as well and both stare at each other and throw A LARIAT! Both are staggering, struggling to stay up right.. And then Sonya takes Lad’s head into her thighs and scoops him up! Sonya struggles at the pain in her knees..
SHE CRUMBLES—
AND LAD IS FREE! He takes her leg and spins into a dragonscrew leg whip! Sonya falls over, clutching at her knee – and Lad holds onto her leg, front rolling through into a fireman’s carry! He lets a loud roar, AND DROPS INTO THE SWEET BUSINESS! Sonya is out cold, and Lad makes the cover!
ONE...
TWO...
THREE!!
DING DING DING
Starr: And your winner, via pinfall and STILL EWC TELEVISION CHAMPION … THE LAD!
Lad rises off of Sonya, breathing heavily as “Exhibit C” sounds in the arena. The referee hands him the EWC Television Championship and he takes it, raising his championship up high to many cheers from the crowd!
Watson: Another week, another win for The Lad! He and Sonya had an absolute barnburner tonight, but no one can figure out how to crack the code on this kid! SONYA was so, so close to winning this match, but The Lad was able to get that fourth successful defense.
Sydney: Lad moves closer to what he’s proclaimed to do, a couple more defenses and victories as a Paramount superstar and he’s going for Cosmo Goldworthy and the EWC United States Championship! Every match now gets him another inch closer to what will surely be an absolute classic of a match!
The referee assists Sonya and helps her up. Sonya slowly gets her way up, clutching her bad knee. Lad walks over to her, holding his championship. On the other hand, he extends his hand out. Sonya shakes his hand and steps away, rolling out with a limp as Lad celebrates his win in the ring. The fans go nuts at the show or respect between these two warriors.
Watson: Classy move by both fighters there. Our two 15-minute challenge matches are next, DON'T GO ANYWHERE!
Camera cuts to a commercial for StrangleMania XIX Live! From Wembley Stadium in London!
We return from commercial to inside the ring where Paramount’s Lisa Goldrush is standing. She smiles into the camera as she nods…
Goldrush: Ladies and Gentlemen please help me welcome at this time…the man that will be headlining StrangleMania and challenging for the EWC Undisputed Championship…XAVIER REID!!!
Lisa points to the stage as ‘Papercuts’ plays out…the spotlight inside Movistar Arena darts around as Xavier Reid and his manager, Bunny Love walk out onto the stage. He crosses his arms into an X as Bunny Love places her hand on his shoulder before walking out in front of him and leading him to the ring.
Watson: Can I just say what an upgrade for Xavier in the manager category…he goes from Tommy Love to her!!!
Sydney: Well the tin foil hat wearing ‘conspiracy’ fans think that Bunny might have had something to do with her father’s legal matters…
Watson: Interesting however I’d like to announce a Paramount exclusive…at Paramount #043 LIVE from Lima, Peru we will have the first sitdown with Tommy Love…
Sydney: From his jail cell…
Watson: From Penal Del Altiplano in Mexico City, Mexico…so make sure you tune in to hear the first interview from ‘The Memphis Mouthpiece’ and get an update from Tommy on his legal matters…
Sydney: And to see how his love life is going…
Xavier and Bunny reach ringside as Xavier lifts the ropes for Bunny to enter the ring. She crosses the ring and is handed a microphone which she hands Xavier once he enters the ring…the pair walk over to Lisa as the fans cheer them on…
Goldrush: Xavier, you have been notably quiet since announcing your intent to cash in your rematch clause at StrangleMania for the Undisputed Championship and many believe that has to do with losing to Sally to kick the 2024 season off…
But before Lisa can finish her question Xavier holds out his hand…
Reid: Lisa I’m going to stop you right there…those who believe I’ve ‘puckered up’ just because I lost a match…well clearly they haven’t been paying attention to my career…I’ve lost a bunch and that’s never stopped me from speaking up and popping off at my opponents but yeah…I haven’t been running around from show to show flapping my gums about this and that…I’ve been focusing my time and energy at the task at hand…and that’s making sure that once April 22nd comes around I’m ready to do whatever it takes to win back that Undisputed Championship and right the wrong from WrestleFest…I get it…
Xavier smirks a little…
Reid: From the cheap seats it looks like I’m ‘hiding away’ here on Paramount because I’m not running off to wrestle on Brawl or Rampage…or showing up at Prime to trade insults with our champion…but Lisa to be fair…she seems content to get into a pissing fight with anyone and everyone these days…she loves the attention and I’m letting her have her moment…she is the champion right…she should be showing up on Brawl, Rampage, Paramount and Prime…she’s representing each and every brand but me…I have the match I want so I don’t feel the need to criss-cross the globe trying to prove myself to her or anyone that I belong in the Main Event of StrangleMania because I’m already in the Main Event of StrangleMania…
Xavier shrugs his shoulders as Bunny smiles…
Reid: For me it’s about getting myself ready to peak at the most important night on the EWC calendar and nothing more…so let her fight it out with Cosmo Goldworthy, JoJo Rush, Mercenary and whoever else wants to share the screen with her…nothing is going to change the fact that it’s going to be me standing across from here on April 22nd in whatever bat shit crazy match the EWC or Sally can come up with…know that I’ll be ready to do whatever it takes to bring that championship back here to Paramount and send her back to Jordan Sharpe and Prime with nothing to offer…
The Paramount fans begin to cheer…
Goldrush: But she has to be getting under your skin Xavier…with her taunts and smack…just 8 days ago she posted this…
Lisa points to the X-Tron and a clip from her Fighter Talk flashes on the screen…
Goldrush: ‘EWC, you're welcome that I just overtook that scrub's longest reign…Also, overtook Savage’...that doesn’t bother you…
Xavier just smiles…
Reid: Congratulations Sally…you are moving up the list…but while she’s concerned with the numbers of days she’s been Undisputed Champion I’m only concerned with one number…34…34 days until StrangleMania when this ‘scrub’ gets his opportunity at the champ…see nothing else matters Lisa…not the barbs or the Fight Talk Posts…nothing else matters once that bell rings so I want her to enjoy these 34 days…cherish them…because in 34 days I’m going to end her world and give the EWC and Undisputed Champion that doesn’t cry foul or threaten lawsuits because someone’s ‘mean to her’...I’m going to make Sally Talfourd and afterthought here in the EWC…a forgotten past champion that she’s trying to claim that I am…
Xavier raises his eyebrows…
Reid: And I saw this past Sunday, your declaration that you’re DONE with Brawl…you’re DONE with Rampage…you’re DONE with Paramount and if we want you we have to come to Prime so I accept your invitation…we will hope on a jet and see you at Prime #120 in San Juan and give the ‘idiots’ that are buying this ppv a little preview Sally...the contract signing for StrangleMania…34 days Sally…enjoy each and every min of those 34 days…
Xavier drops the microphone and mouths ‘34 days’...
Watson: And there you have it…if Sally won’t come to Xavier then Xavier will go to Sally…
Sydney: Well here’s hoping he doesn’t do anything to get arrested like his former manager…
The camera cuts to Xavier one last time as he smirks into the camera as it fades out to commercial
15 MINUTE SINGLES MATCH
Tanja Devereaux
VS Marcu$ $t. John
We return to ringside where the crowd is buzzing in excitement for the final two matches of the night!
Watson: Welcome back to Paramount, folks. We just heard from Xavier Reid, who had some choice words for his opponent at StrangleMania in just over a month, Sally Talfourd! Up next though we are going to see to more opponents that will meet at StrangleMania compete in 15-Minute challenges!
Starr: The following match is a 15-minute challenge match set for one fall! Joining us first
Pyros hit as Videos of bustling crowds of New Orleans appear on the extreme-tron as the dark and melodic tones of "Voodoo" by Godsmack blasts. Tanja comes out onto the top of the ramp in a style compared to Gail Kim during her early time in TNA before heading down the ramp with Celeste St. Laurent coming behind her to the ring as Tanja's black leather coat flows at her feet while the boos from the crowd fills the arena. She hisses at those at ringside while coming down to the ring.
Starr: Coming to the ring hailing from New Orleans, Louisiana and being accompanied to the ring by Celeste St. Laurent; she is the Bayou Witch... TANJA DEVEREAUX!
Tanja walk up towards the ring and enters via under the bottom rope and jumps onto the middle turnbuckle. She poses as she does her usual taunt with a hand and arm in the air as "Voodoo" continues to play. Tanja steps off the turnbuckle as she removes the leather coat as "Voodoo" fades.
Starr: And her opponent, coming to the ring at 6'1" and weighing 220 lbs, it's The Young Mogul... Marcu$ $T JOHN!
"Money" blasts through the arena by The Game. M$J slowly walks out onto the entrance ramp with a Money Gun and soaks in the cheers. He pumps up the crowd more before posing on the center of the entrance ramp. He walks down to the ring shooting the gun which splashes out $100 dollar bills as the fans go crazy with a huge smile on his face.
He stops right before he gets to the ring and listens as he hears cheers that he is getting from the crowd. He walks around the ring shooting more money out. He jumps up on the apron and wipes his feet before he enters the ring and poses in the middle of the squared circle as a light shines a hundred dollar bill in the center of the ring with his face on it.
Pyro hits as "Money" by The Game ends.
DING DING DING
Tanja smacks Marcu$ with a roundhouse kick and hits Marcu$ with a series of forearms. Tanja whips Marcu$ off the ropes but Marcu$ reverses sending Tanja toward the ropes. She spins through the ropes with a tiger feint kick but runs into a clothesline from Marcu$. Tanja gets to her feet but Marcu$ grabs her hitting a DDT. He hooks the leg.
ONE…
TWO…
THR… NO! KICK OUT!
Tanja lifts a shoulder off the mat breaking the count. Marcu$ lifts Tanja off the mat and whips her off the ropes. She rebounds knocking Marcu$ down with a spinning heel kick. She makes a cover.
ONE…
TWO…
THR… NO! KICK OUT!
Marcu$ pushes Tanja away breaking the count.
Watson: Good fast paced offence on show here!
Sydney: They have fifteen minutes. You can’t waste time with an opponent the caliber of a Tanja Devereaux or a Marcu$ $t John.
Tanja lifts Marcu$ up and brings him crashing back down to the mat with a City Of The Dead. She hooks the leg.
ONE…
TWO…
THR… NO! KICK OUT!
Marcu$ rolls to his side breaking the count. Tanja lifts Marcu$ to his feet but he manages to scoop Tanja up onto his shoulders before dropping her to the mat with a Death Valley Driver. He rolls into a cover.
ONE…
TWO…
THR… NO! KICK OUT!
Tanja manages to get a hand onto the bottom rope to break the count.
Watson: Some really big moves and still this match continues.
Sydney: It’s going at a break neck pace and with that Death Valley Driver, I think that’s what these two are either trying to do to each other or they need to!
Marcu$ lifts Tanja to her feet. He lifts Tanja up for a Bankrupt. Tanja manages to slip off Marcu$’ shoulder. She lifts him up for a Voodoo. She can not hold Marcu$ up. Tanja has to drop Marcu$ back to the ground where he knocks Tanja down with a clothesline. Marcu$ lifts Tanja up and drives her to the mat with Bankrupt. He hooks a leg while holding the shoulders down. The referee counts.
ONE…
TWO…
THREE!!!
DING DING DING
Starr: And your winner, at ten minutes and forty-three seconds via pinfall..... Marcu$ $T JOHN!
Marcu$ poses in the middle of the squared circle as a light shines a hundred dollar bill with his face on it in the center of the ring.
Watson: A big win or a quick win? You decide at home folks. Personally I think it was a hell of a crash into the mat and Tanja Devereaux may be laying there until someone with a really big spatula scrapes her up!
Sydney: You say that however, had Tanja Devereaux’s back don’t given out and she hit Marcu$ $t John with Voodoo, that spatula would be for Marcu$ $t John!
Watson: You're not wrong there Cid! Now though, we have a time from Marcu$ $t. John, now let's see how the EWC North American champion does!
Camera cuts to ...
The camera cuts backstage where we find ‘The Prodigal Son’ Buddy Love chatting up Paramount’s Lisa Goldrush…
Love: Do you realize what today is?
Buddy looks at Lisa who shakes her head…
Goldrush: Wednesday…
Buddy smiles
Love: Well yeah but today Lisa, today is day number 302 of Ibuki Ito’s North American Championship reign…302…you understand that makes him only the 11th person in the history of the EWC to have a championship reign over 300 days…today he ties Jordan Sharpe’s 302 day reign as the Indy Champion and…
Buddy’s smile grows larger…
Love: We are 5 days away from Ibuki becoming the LONGEST REIGNING NORTH AMERICAN CHAMPION EVER!!! 5 days away of re–writing the history books and adding his name to the very top and fun fact…
Buddy’s smile stretches across his entire face with joy…
Love: With his 2 championship defenses over these 302 days he equals the last SIX CHAMPIONS in defenses…
Lisa’s tilts her head a bit and looks at her camera man to fact check this but Buddy waves him off…
Love: Let’s review…Marcu$ $t. John’s first defense…zero successful defenses, David Miller…zero successful defenses, Jordan Sharpe…one successful defense, James Keaton…zero successful defenses, Marcu$ $t. John’s 2nd run…one successful defense and Salavation…zero successful defenses…Ibuki Ito has done more in 302 days than the last six champions did in 988 days…that’s the historic run we are on at the moment Lisa…and yet…
And with that Buddy begins shaking his head…
Love: Tonight we are taking part in what…Marcu$ $t. John’s quest to prove he’s ‘worthy’ of challenging Ibuki for the North American Championship at StrangleMania…it’s sad honestly…he’s a walking contradiction these days…one moment he’s going to ‘prove he deserves the chance’ and the next he’s ‘tired of waiting’...come on now…we all know the REAL reason why he’s had this ‘about face’...it’s because he’s no longer the EWC TV Champion…when he was the TV Champion he had something to occupy his time but he lost that championship to The Lad and now runs the risk of becoming the forgotten man around here in Paramount and that bugs him because Marcu$ sees himself as ‘the star’ here in Paramount…which is also cute as a new born baby…
Buddy smiles at Lisa as he looks over her shoulder and sees Ibuki Ito walking their way…
Love: The truth is Lisa there is only ONE TOP MAN here in Paramount and he’s the ACE Ibuki Ito, he’s the man on top and it’s not just because he’s the North American Champion…since day one here in Paramount he’s been leading this brand and that eats away at Marcu$ the same way it was eating away at Sally…it’s just Marcu$ had the stones to stay and not run away so tonight…we find ourselves playing the fun game of having a 15 min time limit match against a man fresh off Gambit…Paramount’s newest ‘big thing’ Apollo Polamalu in tonight’s Main Event and while we will try and beat Marcu$’s time Apollo will try to do the one thing NOBODY’S done in the EWC…and that’s beat THIS MAN in under 15 mins…
Buddy points at the arriving Ibuki Ito…
Ito: He has the chance of a lifetime ahead of him tonight…motivated by being a Plus One in another man’s quest to prove he’s a worthy challenger for this championship…
Ibuki holds up the North American Championship…
Ito: I know it would motivate me to go out there and prove that I am in fact the one that should get the next shot at the championship…and it would be hard to argue against that point if Apollo comes out and beats me in 15 mins or less…however…I am also motivated here tonight…motivated in my quest to show all in the EWC that this championship…is THE CHAMPIONSHIP in all of the EWC…that I’m the champion that has has beat champion after champion…that I have no equal inside that ring at the moment…and that includes our EWC Undisputed Champion Sally Talfourd…
Buddy smirks as he taps Lisa on the shoulder…
Love: She Lisa I checked with our lawyers and it’s not ‘slander’ or ‘defamation’ if it’s true and be be backed up by fact…Ibuki here is 2-0 against Sally…she maybe good enough to be the Undisputed Champion but she doesn’t have what it takes to be the North American Champion…
Buddy smiles, looking proud of his jab…
Ito: For 302 days I’ve done everything in my power to help elevate this championship to the highest of levels and that continues tonight…I step into the ring with a man that has years and years of matches to draw off of…to plan an attack off of and yet I have ONE MATCH to study…and I have to beat him in 15 mins or less so I get to go out there and go on full attack mode…it’s going to be a fast and hard hitting Main Event and I wouldn’t have it any other way…
Ibuki smiles as he and Buddy walk off camera…
15 MINUTE SINGLES MATCH
NON-TITLE
Apollo Polamalu
VS Ibuki Ito
We return to ringside where it is officially time for the main event!
Watson: We saw how the fifteen minute match between Marcu$ $t John and Tanja Devereaux played out, now it’s time to see it in our main event!
Starr: The following match is scheduled for one fall and it is held under a fifteen minute time limit! Joining us first, from Auckland, New Zealand, weighing in at 260 pounds ... ”THE ICONOCLAST” APOLLO POLAMALU!
As “I Serve The Base” by Future blares throughout the building, the fans wait in anticipation as Apollo Polamalu slowly emerges from the back, walking through a trail of smoke. As the beat drops, the lights strobe black and red on key around the building. A white spotlight shines on Apollo as he extends his arms out, allowing the fans to indulge in embracing his presence. Apollo makes his way down to the ring, locked in on what goes on in the ring and not quite the crowd reaction.. He walks up the steps and places his hand on the top rope, entering the ring and throwing his arms up with a cocky grin on his face. He backs up, leaning in the turnbuckles as his theme slowly fades away.
Starr: And his opponent, from Daly City, California, weighing in at 235 pounds, accompanied by Buddy Love ... THE EWC NORTH AMERICAN CHAMPION … IBUKI ITO!
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 Ibuki 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. Ibuki walks to the center of the ring, extends his arms and tilts his head back to soak everything in.
Watson: Quite the opportunity for Apollo Polamalu, and Ibuki Ito looks to obtain more momentum going into StrangleMania! This one’s gonna be good!
DING DING DING
The bell sounds and both men are tense, starting to circle around the ring as they sense the time on the clock. They reach for one another and engage into a collar and elbow tie-up, but Ito quickly grabs him into a headlock. Apollo winces out in pain, struggling at Ito’s grip. He takes him by the waist and brings him to the ropes. Apollo tries to power out and throw Ito off, but Ito holds onto him and slides to the center, headlock still in tact! Apollo falls to a knee, wincing out in pain as Ito wrenches in that headlock. He groans, reaching out for any ropes. He tries to power his way up, but the far more experienced Ito wrenches in the headlock. Frustrated by his lack of success, Apollo muscles Ito up and drops him with a BACK SUPLEX! Ito holds his back in pain, and despite that being only the second move of the match – Apollo scores big! He makes the cover!
ONE...
Ito kicks out!
He rolls away, holding his apron. Ito looks up to Apollo, aware of what this kid just brought to the table. Buddy Love is giving him advice at ringside and Ito nods, slowly rising to his feet. The two go into another collar and elbow tie-up, and Ito switches behind him and gives him a high rear wrestling takedown! He spins behind into a front facleock, and Apollo wraps his arms around the waist. He forces himself up and deadlifts Ito into the turnbuckles! Ito follows up with repeated corner shoulder barrages to the body. Ito groans in pain, and Apollo frees himself as he takes the wrist. He Irish whips Ito hard into the corner, and Ito bounces out as Apollo scoops him up – but Ito floats over! He takes Apollo down with a neckbreaker! Ito rolls back for his first cover of the match.
ONE...
Apollo kicks out!
Both slowly work their way up, and Apollo clutches the back of his head. Ito forearms Apollo, and takes him by the head. Ito tosses him to the ropes and drops him with a charging back elbow! Apollo hits the mat, floored. Ito rises and drags up Apollo – but Apollo clocks him with a throat thrust! Ito staggers, and Wardlow throws another! Ito is barely up, as Apollo hits off the ropes and flips him inside out with a shoulder block! Ito hits the mat, wheezing. Apollo picks up Ito and plants his hands around his throat, tossing him into the turnbuckles! Ito groans, and Apollo charges into a lariat in the corner! Apollo takes Ito by the wrist and Irish whips him into the corner and lariats him again! Ito staggers out of the corner and Apollo wraps his hands around his waist, and tosses him with a German suplex! Ito clutches the back of his head, groaning.
Apollo rises to his feet and drags Ito up, elbowing him. He turns him around and wraps his arms around the back of his head, tossing him with a dragon suplex this time! Ito stares up at the ceiling, dazed. He tries to get up, but Apollo drops him with a knee drop to the head! Ito shakes his head, trying to rise again only for Apollo to drop into another knee drop! Ito is flattened on the mat, breathing heavily. Apollo drags up Ito and goes behind the waist, trying for another German suplex! But Ito elbows him! He elbows him again! Ito spins behind, taking the arms to lift Apollo for a bridging tiger suplex!
ONE...
TW–Apollo kicks out!
Somehow, neither of these two have gotten a two count! Apollo rolls to the ropes, using them to rise. Ito wastes no time, dragging him up. Ito takes Apollo by the wrist and swiftly Irish whips him off.. And Ito leaps into a beautiful; dropkick! Apollo is down and Ito rises to his feet, feeling it. Ito pulls up Apollo and scoops him up onto shoulders.. He lifts him, tossing him jaw first into the turnbuckles! Apollo staggers out and Ito hits off the ropes, but Apollo catches his waist for a belly to belly suplex! Ito stalls the hold, and then shows off his athleticism by breaking free of the hold and placing his hands on Apollo’s shoulder to leapfrog over him! A frustrated Apollo turns around, but Ito nails him with an European uppercut! He nails him with another! Apollo is still standing, but not for long as Ito spins into a discus lariat!
He drags up Apollo and lifts him up into a fireman’s position.. Apollo starts elbowing him! Apollo elbows him again! Ito shakes his head, adjusting his grip on the hold.. And he marches into a fireman’s carry gutbuster! Apollo holds his ribs, rolling over. Apollo coughs out in pain and Ito makes the cover!
ONE...
TWO...
APOLLO KICKS OUT!
Watson: Nasty gutbuster from Apollo! It looks like the North American Champion is going to mitigate Apollo’s headhunting by working all over the body!
Sydney: Sound strategy from the champion, but he’s gotta stop taking these nasty blows for that to remain true.
Following that gutbuster, Apollo rolls onto his stomach. He coughs out in pain from the gutbuster. Ito rises to his feet and playfully boots Apollo in the head. Apollo stares down at the ground, shaking his head. Ito does it again, and Apollo starts to slowly pull himself up. Ito smirks, wanting to see some fire out of his opponent. Apollo obliges and throws a nasty forearm! But Ito throws one back! Apollo fires back! Not once! Not twice! But thri– Ito weaves the third one and SLAPS Apollo! Apollo staggers, and Ito bounces off the ropes and boots Apollo to a turn! Ito takes Apollo by the waist and lifts him up for a German suplex!
It’s a nasty one as Apollo lands right on the back of his head! He rolls over, gasping out in pain. Ito sees Apollo hurt and smirks. He walks over and drags Apollo up. He forearms him and takes the waist for another one, but Apollo grabs the ropes this time! Apollo holds onto the ropes and Ito struggles, trying for that German suplex! Apollo elbows Ito back, forcing him to release the hold. Ito staggers forward, and Apollo walks over and yanks him down with a STO! The back of Ito’s head bounces off the mat, and Apollo rises, holding onto the grounded Ito. He deadlifts him up, and SPINS INTO A URANAGE SLAM! Ito is down, and Apollo quickly makes the cover!
ONE...
TWO...
Ito kicks out!
Not even close to enough to hurt the champion! Apollo muscles Ito up and turns him. He elbows him hard in the back. Apollo elbows him again. He holds onto Ito’s waist, lifting him up for a back suplex! But Ito lands behind him! Ito shoves Apollo to the ropes and Apollo hits off the ropes! It doesn’t matter because Ito scoops him into a spinning powerslam! Ito rises, and the crowd reciprocate with cheers for Paramount’s Ace! He drags up Apollo and grabs him in a front facelock. Ito starts to lift him vertically.. And Ito walks right into a kneecap brainbuster! Apollo is downed and Ito wastes no time making the cover!
ONE...
TWO...
Apollo kicks out!
Ito is getting closer to leaving Apollo in a vulnerable state, but he still struggles to try and get up after that. He reaches for the ropes and staggers over. Ito pulls up Apollo and chops him. He chops him again. Ito wraps his arms around Apollo, starting to place him on the top rope. Ito tries to get up there, but Apollo kicks him away! Ito staggers, holding his jaw.. Apollo rises to his feet, sitting on the middle turnbuckle.. Ito rushes over to stop him, but Apollo dives into a shoulder block! He doesn’t leave his feet for a dive very often, but it paid off well there! Apollo quickly rises up and grabs up Ito. He scoops Ito onto his shoulder.. AND HE CHARGES INTO A POWERSLAM INTO THE TURNBUCKLES!
AND APOLLO HOLD ONTO ITO, SPINNING INTO THE CENTER FOR THE OKLAHOMA STAMPEDE– Ito drops down into an inverted facelock! Ito scoops up Apollo, for an inverted suplex! Apollo's jaw crashes into the mat and he slowly kneels up, allowing Ito to rise to his feet to hit the ropes so he can leap into a jumping elbow to the jaw of Apollo! Apollo goes down and he’s out of it! Ito nods his head profusely, dragging Apollo up. He ducks under and takes the waist, tossing him with a backdrop suplex! Ito’s energy is flowing while Apollo is still down. Ito doesn’t opt for the cover and instead decides to deal more damage. He grabs Apollo by the head and quickly snags him into a front facelock. He nods his head, driving his head into the canvas with a DDT! Apollo is out of it, and Ito rolls him over into a pinfall!
ONE...
TWO...
T–APOLLO KICKS OUT!
Apollo rolls over, holding his head in agony. Ito stares down at Apollo, not quite surprised by that at all. He rises to his feet and drags him up. Ito takes the head, trying to elevate Apollo upside down for what looks like to be The Steiner Screwdriver, but we’ll never know as Apollo stalls the hold! Ito tries to lift him again, but Apollo reverses the momentum as he hoists Ito up for a DANGEROUS BRAINBUSTER! Apollo rises, sitting Ito up! He hits off the ropes and charges into a sliding lariat! Ito is floored!
Apollo shakes his head, dragging Ito up. He looks at Ito and nods his head! Apollo scoops under him and tosses him into a T-Bone Suplex! Ito crashes into the center of the mat! He wheezes out in pain and Apollo hooks the leg tightly!
ONE...
TWO...
TH–ITO KICKS OUT!
Watson: Beautifully executed T-Bone Suplex from Apollo, but it’s going to take a lot more than that if you stand a chance at defeating Ibuki Ito!
Sydney: Ito better watch his back, though! So far, so good for “The Iconoclast” and this kid is looking really good in his Paramount debut..
Ito rolls to the apron, holding at his back. Apollo rises to his feet, shaking his head. Apollo walks over and pulls up Ito. But Ito elbows Apollo! Apollo staggers, charging back in! Ito takes the head and hotshots him into the top rope! Apollo falls backwards, coughing out in pain. He holds at his throat. Apollo coughs out, trying to get back up. But as he does, Ito springboards up! HE DIVES INTO KUSHU! THE SPRINGBOARD FOREARM SMASH DROPS APOLLO! And Ito makes the cover, sure of victory here!
ONE...
TWO...
THR–APOLLO THROWS HIS SHOULDER UP!
Somehow this match is still going, and the crowd are all for it! Ito wasn’t expecting that resilience from Apollo, but it’s not holding him back! He scoots backwards, pulling on the ropes! Ito calls Apollo up! Apollo starts to kneel up and Ito charges into the– APOLLO CATCHES HIM WITH A SPINNING SIDE SLAM! Ito is down! Apollo falls backwards, breathing heavily! Both are hurt, but Apollo is starting to work his way back up! Ito stares at the ceiling, glassy eyed. Apollo uses the ropes to rise to his feet. He grabs up Ito, nodding his head. He irish whips Ito! And he pops him up into a SAMOAN DR– Ito wraps his legs around Apollo’s arms and drags him down into a crucifix pin!
ONE...
TWO...
TH–APOLLO KICKS OUT! BUT HE’S HOLDING ONTO ITO, DEADLIFTING HIM UP!
Ito is struggling, trying his hardest to break free from Apollo’s grasp! But Apollo powers on, continuing to adjust Ito’s position! He pops him right back into a fireman’ scarry.. And as he gets him there, Apollo DROPS BACKWARDS INTO THAT NASTY SAMOAN DROP! Ito wheezes out in pain as all of Apollo’s weight crashing down onto his ribs nearly pops one, and Apollo goes to the cover!
ONE...
TWO...
TH– ITO KICKS OUT!
Both of these men are starting to bust out their powerful moves, but it’s still not enough to win the match! Apollo breathes heavily, sweat dripping down. Ito clutches at his side, coughing out in pain. He rolls over. Apollo stomps his head, and stomps his chest. He drags him into the drop zone and steps out onto the apron. Apollo walks over to the turnbuckle, and starts to climb up. He points down to Ito, unleashing a war cry! Apollo dives into the X MARKS THE SPOT – NO! ITO MOVES OUT OF THE WAY! Apollo’s knee crashes right into the mat! Apollo rolls over, holding his knee in agonizing pain! Ito slowly starts to rise, and Apollo struggles up as well! He staggers, still holding at that knee! Ito takes the head of Apollo and lifts him up! He tosses him with a gourdbuster suplex on the top rope! Apollo pops off the top rope from the bounce of the ropes, back into the ring. Apollo rolls onto his fours, coughing out in pain. He holds at his ribs and Ito backs up, pointing to Apollo as he charges into a corkscrew kick to the back of the head!
Ito stares at Apollo laid flattened, and he nods. He senses a prime opportunity to take over and rises to his feet. He drags up Apollo and takes him by the head. Ito grabs at Apollo’s pants and starts to lift him vertically, but Apollo finds a way to stall it! He reverses the momentum and lifts him, but Ito brings him right back down! HE lifts him up for a big time suplex! Both rub at their backs. Ito slaps the mat, rising to his feet. He drags up Apollo and forearms him. Ito punches Apollo hard in the ribs. He scoops Apollo up onto his shoulder and tosses him with a powerslam! Apollo is hurt, but Ito can’t take his foot off the gas pedal now! Ito drags up Apollo and takes him by the head. Ito looks around and calls for the crowd’s reaction! They follow up with cheers, and Ito hoists up Apollo AND SPINS INTO A FALCON ARROW! The back of Apollo’s head bounces off the canvas as Ito hooks the leg for a cover!
ONE!
TWO!
THR–APOLLO KICKS OUT!
Close call but this match is still going on! Apollo groans in pain, rolling to the apron. Ito rises to his feet and steps to the apron, following with Apollo. He throws a nasty elbow at Apollo, and Apollo struggles to stay upright. He uses the ropes to rise, but Ito chops him! Apollo throws a punch to Ito’s throat! He throws another punch! And he starts throwing elbow strikes! Ito throws up his guard but the elbows are still getting through! As Apollo starts to keep elbowing, Ito takes advantage of the fact his arms aren’t near his waist and he scoops him up into a fireman’s carry! As expected, Apollo can’t block the lift! And Ito looks around..
DEATH VALLEY DRIVER ONTO THE APRON!
It’s a loud thud as both men hit the apron hard and crash to the floor! The crowd absolutely loses their shit for that one! Ito is down, and so is Apollo! But Apollo is in much deeper pain than the North American Champion!
Watson: DEATH VALLEY DRIVER FROM IBUKI ITO! APOLLO POLAMALU ISN’T MOVING AT ALL!
Sydney: I might take back everything I just said! That’s exactly why Ibuki Ito is the North American Champion!
Buddy rushes over, yelling at Ito to get back in this one! Ito nods his head, slowly crawling to Apollo. He muscles the big man up and forces him into the ring. Ito slowly slides in, crawling over to Apollo to make the cover..
ONE...
TWO...
THR–APOLLO KICKS OUT!
It’s still not enough to win this match! Ito rolls over, breathing heavily. Apollo is hardly moving as commentary pointed out. Ito rises to his feet and looks around. Apollo finally rolls over, gasping for air. He starts to kneel up and Ito backs to the corner. He pulls his elbow pad down and calls for Apollo! ITO CHARGES INTO THE KONBANWA– Apollo ducks it just in time! Ito skids forward, rising to his feet in shock at Apollo! And as he gets closer, Apollo SPINS INTO THE CYCLONE STRIKE! THE DISCUS LARIAT FLOORS ITO! AND APOLLO MAKES THE COVER!
ONE...
TWO...
THRE–ITO KICKS OUT!
Apollo falls back, gasping for air. This one is STILL going! He rises to his feet, looking around. He grabs Ito by the head, trying to do whatever he can to end this one! He starts to lift Ito into a fireman’s carry, looking for the Kiwi Killer! But Ito starts to wiggle! Apollo struggles, trying to hold onto the grip but Ito slips behind him! Ito spins free, nailing Apollo with a spike DDT! Apollo is down! Ito rises to his feet and lifts him up! He leans Apollo down, looking around.. Ito nods, willing to do whatever it takes to win this one! HE spins into Tobidashi Naifu– Apollo spins out!
He shoves Ito to the ropes! Apollo rushes over and lariats Ito to the floor! Ito lands on his feet, staggering backwards. Apollo quickly slides out, throwing a nasty punch to Ito! He throws another one! Apollo takes Ito’s wrist, trying to irish whip him into the steps– but Ito reverses! Apollo goes shoulder first into the steps and he falls over! Apollo winces out in pain, and Ito calls him up! Apollo slowly rises and Ito boots him into the steps! Apollo falls over, and Ito scoops him up! He throws him in and slides in, calling him up!
Apollo slowly rises and Ito points at his elbow! KONBAWA! THE ELBOW LANDS FLUSH ON THE BACK OF APOLLO’S HEAD! ITO ROLLS HIM OVER FOR THE COVER!
ONE...
TWO...
THRE– APOLLO KICKS OUT!
BUT ITO GRABS THE HAIR, FORCING HIM UP! Ito looks around, nodding his head! He leans his head down.. But Apollo stalls it! He shakes his head, struggling to stay up! Ito throws clubbing blows to the chest! Again! Again! Ito tries to lean his head down, but Apollo somehow spins out, taking the waist. He ripcords Ito out! QUIETU– ITO DUCKS IT!
Apollo quickly spins around and Ito lifts him vertically! Apollo knees him in the head, though! He knees him in the head again! Ito drops Apollo and he lands on his feet! Apollo pops Ito up in the air and he carries him in crucifix position.. AND TOSSES HIM INTO DEADEYE!
APOLLO FOLDS HIM FOR THE COVER!
ONE...
TWO...
THRE– ITO KICKS OUT JUST IN TIME!
Watson: ITO KICKS OUT! WHAT A MATCH THIS HAS BEEN FOR BOTH MEN!
Sydney: NEITHER WANT TO STAY DOWN! I CAN’T BELIEVE IT!
Apollo’s eyes widen in shock, not just because he kicked out of that but because he’s aware that the time is starting to tick! He quickly rises, grabbing Ito in a front facelock. He tries to lock in the Guillotine CHoke for Impenitency– but Ito scoops him up and slams him into the turnbuckles!
It’s a nasty spill, and both men stagger out of the corner. Ito hits off the ropes and dropkicks Apollo down! Apollo goes down and Ito rises to his feet. He nods, dragging Apollo up.. HE QUICKLY LIFTS HIM AND HOLDS HIM UPSIDE DOWN!
BURAKKUAUTO CONNECTS! THE BRAINBUSTER SUPLEX FLOORS APOLLO! But Ito doesn’t go to the cover, he slowly works his way up.. And he kneels Apollo up, using his hair! Ito bounces off the corner
KETTEI-DAAAA!!
APOLLO RISES TO HIS FEET AND SPINS INTO QUIETUS! THE SPINNING BACKFIST KNOCKS ITO OUT! APOLLO FALLS ONTO HIM, AND THE REFEREE MAKES THE COVER!
ONE...
TWO...
THREEE!!!
DING DING DING
Starr: And your winner, at a time of fourteen minutes and fifty-eight seconds via pinfall … APOLLO POLAMALU!!
The bell sounds and both men are EXHAUSTED. Neither can really move, but it’s Apollo who rolls off of Ito, in complete shock of that upset! Buddy Love enters the ring to tend to Ito, while Apollo slowly rises and throws his arms up! The fans cheer, but they’re stunned as well!
Apollo climbs the top rope, pointing around as “I Serve The Base” plays throughout the building. Ito is helped out of the ring and handed his EWC North American Championship, and not even the champion can understand what just happened.
Watson: OH MIY GOD HE DID IT!!!...What did I just see?! Apollo Polamalu just pulled off one of the biggest upsets I’ve ever seen, defeating Ibuki Ito in his first Paramount match!
Sydney: I can’t believe it either! That was a great performance from Ito, near flawless– but somehow Apollo wanted it more and he caught him off guard when he least expected it! What a showing!
Watson: This season has been full of surprises, and Apollo Polamalu just added to it! What an amazing match. Ibuki Ito rarely loses, but we said the same thing about Marcu$ $t. John as well and that happened at the season premiere! The youngblood of Paramount is STRONG this season folks, and the best place to see them live is right here on Apple TV+ every other Wednesday on Paramount Wrestling! We are completely out of time so for Cid Sydney, I am Tim Watson saying thanks and we will see you in Lima Peru two weeks from tonight!
The final images of Paramount wrestling fade on a shot of Apollo Polamalu basking in the praise of the Bogota crowd.
The final images of Paramount wrestling fade on a shot of Apollo Polamalu basking in the praise of the Bogota crowd.