Friday Night Inferno

GCWA Friday Night Inferno

*It's another Friday, after another very long week. You can't believe how crazy it's been. And now, Friday night. You could be going out to see a movie, or enjoy a Broadway-style show. You could be getting together with your friends, drinking the night away, or heading off on a weekend road trip. But no. No, you chose the correct choice: to watch a wrestling show on Friday night. Either that, or you're watching it later, on one of the replays. Hey, we don't judge here, if you don't want to see it live, it's all on you.*

*The Inferno label appears for a second, before fading away. A voice begins to speak, but it's not the voice of Jonathan Barrows this time. No, this time it's a woman's voice, which gives off a completely different vibe. It almost reminds you of the opening to Lord of the Rings. Almost.*

Voice: With the fall of the Accelerator, turmoil has swept across the GCWA.

*Video replays the assault on the Accelerator at GCWA Homecoming from his own son, Jonathan Barrows. We see Jonathan & Hunter during the intro on last week's show, talking about the dismissal of wrestlers R.M. Strong, The Lost Soul, Derek "The Thriller" Mobley, and Lurrr.*

Voice: The power now appears to be in the hands of those who have no respect for the company's history. Those who bring in outside forces to change the workings of the Global Championship Wrestling Association.

*We see The Incredible One's first appearance at Homecoming. We also see his match with Peter "The Janitor" Vaughn, ending in shocking fashion due to the interference of "The Rocketman" Ed Houston. Houston and TIO then fought, only to have Dylan Thomas apparently join with TIO, beating down Houston to end the night.*

Voice: But there are also good men and women here, those who will fight for honor and for loyalty.

*Shots of Houston, The Big Bifford, The Danger Boiz, and more flash across the screen.*

Voice: But will they be able to stand against the brothers Barrows, and what they have planned next?

*An image of Jonathan Barrows interrupting the Big Bifford GCWA World Title celebration is shown, with Barrows talking about a #1 contender being named this week. We also see the arranging for tonight, as there will be two contendership matches taking place.*

Voice: Who knows what the future will bring... and what will happen in the New Era of the GCWA.

*The screen begins to burn along the edges as the image goes away, illuminating every square inch of the screen. In the flames, shots of different wrestling maneuvers are shown. The Stroke. Blastoff. The Perfect Finisher. The Duce of Clubs. This Damn Incredible. The Biff End. Each as impressive as you would expect. In the center of the flames, an image of the current GCWA World Heavyweight Champion, The Big Bifford, appears, smiling towards the camera. The fury of the flames overtakes Bifford, as he disappears from sight. "Legend" from the Score then plays, leading us into the beginning of Inferno!*

"BANG BANG, BANG BANG, BANG BANG, THIS FIRE'S A WEAPON... BANG BANG, BANG BANG, BANG BANG, WON'T STOP 'TIL WE'RE LEGEND!"

*Throughout the flames, images of the various wrestlers competing in the company flash by, some doing their signature maneuvers, others posing for the camera. As the music hits a crescendo, the screen blows apart, and we once again are back in Dallas, Texas! The new GCWA Arena continues to be packed for every show, as the fans can't get enough of the competition that takes place every Friday. We cut to our announcers, Hood and Rockwell.*

Rockwell: Hello, and welcome back to Friday Night Inferno!

Hood: And if it's your first time here... where the fuck have you been?!?!

Rockwell: We've got a thrilling night of action ahead for you! Detective Jack Puffer will be competing for the first time in the GCWA ring!

Hood: Hard to oversell that one. Puffer never had much success in OCW.

Rockwell: But with a new organization comes a new chance to succeed. Also, we've got Ed Houston taking on the man with a winning streak, Peter "The Janitor" Vaughn!

Hood: I still can't believe The Janitor has a win over The Incredible One.

Rockwell: We have a rematch, of sorts, between Crazy Chris and Jace Savage, with The Danger Boiz getting a World Tag-Team Titles shot if Chris wins tonight.

Hood: And then, in our main event, we've got three of the greatest wrestlers in the company going at it for an X Division Title shot! It could be a horrible night for Crazy Chris, all things considered.

Rockwell: Crash Rodriguez has had a great run so far, as co-holders of the Tag Titles. Dylan Thomas is a former GCWA North American Champion, and Chad Vargas has held titles all over the world. You definitely can see how all three are worthy of a title shot.

Hood: Yeah, but the X Division Title? That North American Title would be a better fit for them.

Rockwell: The GCWA Unified X Division Title has a very impressive history behind it, Hood!

Hood: Exactly. It should be history.

Rockwell: Well, no matter what, we find out two #1 contenders here tonight, as the Barrows are set to let us know the challenger to the Big Bifford as well!

Hood: Whoever it is, they'll be at a weight disadvantage.

Rockwell: Oh, almost certainly. Let's go to the ring!

*The GCWA crowd is hyped, awaiting the first match of the evening when, without any music, Lissandra and Dylan Thomas, and the Incredible One, walk out onto the stage. Boos begin to heavily flood the arena as the three of them gather near the top of the ramp.*

Rockwell: And here are those three...

Hood: You sound displeased Rockwell, what do you have against these three?

Rockwell: I don't like the way they conduct their business. TIO has been a sour point since he joined and the Thomas' have been a tasteless act too.

Hood: You're upset by two people trying to further themselves in their careers?

Rockwell: By diminishing others and breaking the rules? Yes.

*All three have large smiles on their faces as TIO and Dylan pose for the crowd, and Lissandra applauds the two of them. The three make their way down the ramp, as TIO slides into the ring, followed by Dylan climbing the steel steps and holding the ropes so Lissandra can enter gracefully. Lissandra walks the ring as TIO and Dylan climb turnbuckles, posing for the jeering crowd while Lissandra grabs two microphones. She hands the two men each a mic as TIO raises his to his mouth.*

TIO: Before we begin, there is one thing I need to address and that is my match with Peter 'the Janitor' Vaughn. Last week - his win was an absolute fluke. You know me, and you know my resume - I have wrestled with the absolute best in the industry and lived to tell the tale. Last week was Houston exacting some revenge of his own and do I blame him? No. If roles were reversed, I would've done the same thing. I cost him a match and now he's cost me one - he must think we're even... not by a long shot. We can keep costing each other matches but in reality what I really want is a fight with you! So before us three make history in the beginning of this episode of Inferno, Houston, I am challenging you one-on-one at High Rollers! TIO vs. Ed Houston.

*The crowd cheers for the prospect of TIO vs. Ed Houston at High Rollers as TIO lowers the microphone for a moment. Dylan and Lissandra are clapping, nodding their heads, praising TIO. TIO turns and points to Dylan, who points back.*

TIO: You see this man right here, ladies and gentlemen? I'll be honest, after the Barrows' and I talked contract and I waited my time to pounce on Houston, I watched the product. Of course I did, and who caught my eye? Who did I think would be going places? This man right here. He became GCWA North American Champion, and while he may have held it briefly, it was during that brief moment I saw a star in the rising. Now, while I had no plans to contact the man, this beautiful woman right here sure did, and well, maybe I'll let them tell you the rest.

*Lissandra blushes at being called beautiful and smiles whilst Dylan mockingly mouths the words 'watch it' to TIO who smiles getting the joke. Lissandra grabs the microphone off of Dylan and holds it to her lips waiting for the boos to die down.*

Lissandra: Thank-you TIO. My brain for business is always on the lookout on how to get Dylan and the DT Brand ahead of the curb. Dylan's said it before: We watched OCW when it was around and while back then we weren't ready to return to wrestling, we DID keep an eye on YOU. We saw you own OCW and we saw your teammates of The Aptitude absolutely destroy those stupid twins The Dravers Boys.

*A small pop happens from the fans that remember The Dravers Boys.*

Lissandra: I'M TALKING!

*The crowd boo.*

Lissandra: We had our dealings with The Dravers Boys back in the day and when we saw that you guys destroyed them? We couldn't have been happier. Right baby?

*Dylan nods.*

Lissandra: Look TIO, what I'm trying to say is... this arrangement... this alliance we have going? I saw it as what was, no... what IS the best way forward. We want to be successful. YOU want to be the BEST wrestler on the planet today and well... you know what they say... The Stars Aligned.

*Lissandra hands the microphone back to Dylan.*

Dylan: Thanks baby. TIO... I don't think I could say it any better than what my beautiful wife has just said. The way I see it? We could OWN GCWA... but...

*Dylan smirks.*

Dylan: I'm getting ahead of myself. As for tonight - in the main event - when I demolish both Chad Vargas and that... weird Jesus Christ wannabe psychopath... seriously? Barbed wire? Crash Rodriguez for the number one contender's match for the X-Division title... You'll see why I am Perfection, Personified. And you'll see why the A-List are already THE most talked about commodity in GCWA.

*Dylan smirks again and Lissandra smiles broadly.*

Dylan: I BROKE the ankle of Xtreme in my debut for crying out loud! I broke his ankle so much that even after a month and a half he STILL can't walk on it properly. If that doesn't speak volumes, I don't know what does.

*Lissandra grabs Dylan's microphone again.*

Lissandra: Oh, and Ed Houston? If you're still wondering why I, still pregnant I might add, got involved in your match last week... well it must all become clear now. TIO?

*TIO's facial expression goes from a simple smile to a complex, crooked, evil, grin. He nods to Lissandra as he raises the microphone to his mouth.*

TIO: It might not be that clear because I mean we are in Texas after all.

*The three of them roar in laughter as the crowd boo the insult and an “asshole” chant starts.*

TIO: I like what you called us earlier, Dylan, the A-List... yes, it has a nice ring to it. You see, the Barrow's want fresh - brand new faces for the new reincarnation of GCWA. They tried to get Houston, but, well, we all know how that worked out. You see, people like Dylan and myself aren't afraid to go the extra mile or take an extra step to get what we deserve - and we certainly do not care what people think of us as we do it.

*Dylan and Lissandra clap again as TIO takes a break from speaking. He stares into the hard camera from the crowd, becoming serious.*

TIO: So let this be a day to remember - a day that will live in the memories of every single stupid red neck in attendance. The day the team of Dylan and Lissandra Thomas, and the Incredible One, begin their take over of GCWA. Dylan starts TONIGHT by becoming the number one contender to the X Division title, and I will decimate Houston at High Rollers... if he's confident enough to accept the challenge. Tonight, you witness the debut of...

*TIO waits for Dylan to raise his microphone to his mouth as Lissandra leans in as the three of them speak in unison.*

Dylan/Lissandra/TIO: The A-List!

*The three drop their microphones as the A-List pose together.. Dylan and Lissandra kiss and start heading towards the ring ropes as TIO follows closely behind them.*

Hood: The A-List! This is wicked!

Rockwell: Sounds like inflated ego if you ask me.

Hood: They can afford to have a ton of ego! GCWA has never seen a duo in Mister Incredible and Perfection, Personified!

Rockwell: We'll just have to see if they can put their money where their mouths are!

*The crowd continues to boo the A-List, as we head to our first commercial break.*

*We come back from the break to a busy-looking office, as a few secretaries are taking calls and making notes.*

Secretary #1: Okay, thanks for calling, I will pass this up the chain, and if they're interested, they will give you a call.

Secretary #2: Oh, you've won how many championships? Well, that will be important to include in your online resume.

Secretary #3: Yes, yes, I'm sure your little independent organization is very successful. Just send in the information.

*As the secretaries continue to take down notes, the camera shifts over nearby, where Hunter and Jonathan Barrows are standing. Jonathan looks like a man lording over his castle. Hunter seems less confident.*

Jonathan Barrows: The phones haven't stopped ringing since we took over, Hunter. The Incredible One, Adi Gold, Fisher Goldblum, "Mad Dog" Mark Wright, Tony Savage... so many are coming over to join us, now that we're not just the "old folk's home" of the wrestling world.

Hunter Barrows: That's great, Jon. Truly.

Jonathan Barrows: I really feel like this place is going to be as great as we were planning it to be. It's all coming together, brother.

Hunter Barrows: So... have you... talked to Dad?

*Jonathan looks over at Hunter with a raised eyebrow.*

Jonathan Barrows: Why would I do that? By all accounts, he's doing well in the... establishment we've got him set up in. Knowing him, he's hitting on all the old broads there, and the nurses, too.

Hunter Barrows: I just... I tried to call him...

Jonathan Barrows: Why would you do that?

Hunter Barrows: It doesn't matter... he wouldn't take my call...

*Jonathan slowly relaxes, realizing that no harm has been done.*

Jonathan Barrows: Look, Hunter. I know you hate to face it, but Dad's in the past. The future is ours to control. You don't have to worry about a thing.

Hunter Barrows: Sure, Jon. Sure.

*Hunter turns and leaves the office, with Jonathan looking speculatively after him. A secretary walks up with a new potential recruit's information, and Jonathan goes back to work, leaving it behind.*

Hood: The GCWA is more popular than ever!

Rockwell: I don't know about that, but it's definitely getting a strong roster together. With that said, let's check out one of our newest arrivals!

Singles Match
Detective Jack Puffer (0-0) vs. Xtreme (6-20-1)

Minos: It is time... for our opening contest... of the evening... introducing first... standing 6'3" and weighing in at 290 lbs... from Parts Unknown... he is a former GCWA Hardcore Champion... here is Xtreme!!

*As the first chords of "What I've Done" by Linkin Park plays, the lights around the entrance begin to flash rapidly. In the midst of this, the dark, tortured presence of Xtreme appears. He walks slowly out onto the ramp, grinning at the thought of the violence to come. He makes his way towards the ring, his smile growing larger the closer he gets.*

Rockwell: Xtreme has a rapidly growing losing streak on his hands currently, but it hasn't seemed to affect him at all.

Hood: The guy's batshit crazy, and all he wants is to feel pain.

Rockwell: And dish out pain.

Hood: I mean, that's what he says, but when's the last time he dished out anything other than performing violence on himself?

Minos: His opponent... he is a former wrestler with Online Championship Wrestling... making his debut here tonight, in place of Warrick Hill... here is Detective Jack Puffer!!

*"Tom Sawyer" by Rush begins to play, and the fans get a little excited, even though they know it's not going to be Warrick Hill walking down the aisle. Their excitement wanes, though, when nobody walks down. Xtreme is shown in the ring, hanging over the ropes, looking on in confusion.*

Rockwell: Detective Puffer was hoping to turn over a new leaf here in the GCWA, after years of ineffective wrestling in OCW.

Hood: Where the hell is he? He knows which curtain he's supposed to walk through, right?

Rockwell: First Warrick Hill goes missing, and now we don't know where the detective is!

Hood: It's a CONSPIRACY!!

*The music stops, as it's clear that Detective Puffer isn't coming out. Xtreme, looking a little stressed out, begins arguing with the referee, but the ref shrugs and signals for the bell anyway. It rings.*

Rockwell: So Puffer now has a count of 10 to get to the ring.

Hood: Oh, I don't like the look of Xtreme right now...

*The referee starts counting away, as Xtreme clings to the ropes, shaking. 1... 2... 3... 4... no sign of Puffer. 5... 6... Xtreme is starting to pull some hair out in frustration... 7... 8... the fans try a "Puffer" chant, but he doesn't appear... 9... 10!!! The ref signals for the bell, as the crowd boos the result. Nobody looks particularly happy.*

Minos: Here is your winner... via countout... Xtreme!!

Rockwell: Xtreme just got himself a victory!

Hood: I don't think he wants it, Adrian!

*Xtreme argues some more for a ref, apparently asking for a substitute. The referee doesn't seem to be able to do anything, though, other than try to calm Xtreme down. He fails, as Xtreme suddenly spins and nails the referee with a throat punch!!! The ref staggers, gasping for air, only to be lifted onto Xtreme's shoulders! Xtreme twirls the ref around, letting out a wild scream, before dropping him with the Xtreme Measures!!!*

Hood: Damn!

Rockwell: That's going to be a fine for Xtreme, almost certainly.

Hood: Gotta protect the refs!

*Security guards start pouring out of the back, heading for the ring. They were probably sent by either Jonathan or Hunter Barrows to contain the situation. Xtreme is still kicking at the downed referee, while yanking on his hair. As the first security guard enters, Xtreme turns... and smiles. He charges, smashing into the guard, and then starts swinging wildly at every person who steps into the ring!! The crowd is eating this up, even as security tries to surround the wild man.*

Rockwell: Xtreme has snapped!

Hood: The guy just wanted Detective Puffer to beat him up! Is that too much to ask??

*Security guards are flying everywhere, as Xtreme is actually letting loose a lot of aggression right now. You have to wonder where all this energy is when he usually wrestles. Finally, they manage to force Xtreme from the ring, still trying to corral him. He grabs a mic from somewhere, even as security swarms him, dragging him towards the back.*

Xtreme: PUFFER!!! YOU SON OF A BITCH!!! YOU SON OF A WHORE!!! I'LL FIND YOU!!! I'LL FIND YOU, AND I'LL MAKE YOU PAY!!! YOU MOTHER-

*The mic cuts out just in time (or too late, depending on your language preferences). Xtreme continues to fight the security as they work to get him backstage. The crowd is at least happy that they got something out of this one.*

Hood: That... was crazy.

Rockwell: Detective Puffer lost his debut, and apparently has made a serious enemy in the form of Xtreme. We'll see if we can find out what happened to Puffer, as we continue Inferno!

*We cut to the backstage area, in the small closet/dressing room of Peter "The Janitor" Vaughn. He has his brown bag in front of him, filled with his latest supplement or vitamin of choice. But he's also got his phone in front of him, playing a voice message that's on there.*

Mary: Peter? It's Mary. I'm here. The food's here. Give me a call. I'm here to help.

*Vaughn quickly replays the message, listening to it again. He's mostly focused on the last portion.*

Peter Vaughn: She's there... to help...

*Vaughn reaches towards the re-dial button, as if to call her back, but then hesitates. He looks again towards the brown bag, then back at the phone, severely conflicted. We fade out.*

*The fans are buzzing, but soon turn to a mixed reaction as a voice begins to speak through the P.A. system.*

"And the whole world loves it when you sing the blues... Da. Da.. Da. Da. Da.. Da..."

*The opening sounds of "Godspeed" by Don Trip begins to play as the lights inside of the GCWA Arena turn a crimson hue color, soon after the stage fills up with smoke. After about a minute of waiting, the GCWA North American Champion, Duce Jones slowly emerges through the fog with the North American Championship slung over his shoulder, so that the title is facing behind him.*

Rockwell: Well Hood, it seems that our North American Champ, Duce Jones has requested this time for the evening. I wonder what could be running through his mind at this time.

Hood: Whatever it is, I'm glad that I've been catching up on my Hooked on Phonics tapes because this kid is hard to understand at times..

Rockwell: Hooked on Phonics...? They still make that crap?

Hood: The classics never die.

*Jones ignores the mixed reaction from the Dallas fans as he comes to ringside and climbs up onto the apron. With the North American title now in hand, he moves to the right, climbing onto the second turnbuckle and displays the championship for the crowd. Finally done, he jumps over the top rope, landing inside of the ring and throws the title correctly over his shoulder now. Duce looks out to the fans, making his way over towards the ropes near where Minos is seated and requests a mic. Minos comes over and gives him one as Jones moves back towards the center of the ring, where he waits for the fans to calm down. They finally do and he begins to speak.*

Duce Jones: A lil ova two years ago.. I left tha land'a tha risin' sun ta move back t'tha United States wit one goal in mind.. Dat goal.. was ta solidify my name in dis business.

*Duce brings the mic down, looking over to his right shoulder where the North American title rests.*

Duce Jones: I made a promise ta myself, dat no matta what.. By tha time dat my career comes ta an end, tha entire wrestlin' world would kno' tha name.. Duce Jones.. Ya see, bein' a second generation wrestla' wasn't enough fo' me.

*Duce shakes his head in denial.*

Duce Jones: Naw.. ya see, like Johnny an' Hunta', I wanted ta stand out on my own.. Step outta tha shadow of my ol' man. Be.. Duce Jones an' not tha 'Son of Krayzie'... not dat dat's a bad thang cuh I am but I'm also tha 'Kid dat Neva Dies! Which means there's not much dat's gonna keep me down an' on my back. But also in dat shawt time, I've come ta learn dat, no matta how young I may be, I'm not invincible.. Dat if I keep goin at tha rate dat I'm goin'.. My career could come ta an abrupt end..

*Duce let that sink in for a moment as he rubs at his throat, adjusting the title on his shoulder.*

Duce Jones: But I'm not out here fo' all dat.. Naw.. I'm here because of dis..

*Removing the North American title from his shoulder, Jones holds it high for the fans to see as they cheer his most recent accomplishments.

Duce Jones: Tha Nawf American Championship.

*Placing the title back over his shoulder, Duce chuckles a bit.*

Duce Jones: An' Dylan, it doesn't matta if I pronouce it north or nawf.. I still beat YOU, fair an' square fo' dis strap.. An' unlike tha paper champ dat you were goin' ta be. I'm gonna brang real honor an' prestige ta dis newly christen title. Which brangs me ta why I'm currently out here at tha moment. Next week, I make my return ta tha rang an' dis here belt.

*Duce pats the title plate with his microphone, occupied hand.*

Duce Jones: Will be on tha line..

*The Dallas fans cheer the announcement.*

Duce Jones: But dat's not tha only thang.. I'm willin' ta defend dis strap against anyone who wants ta step up ta tha plate. Dat means anybody in dat locka room..

*Duce points towards the back and then at the camera.*

Duce Jones: Or anybody out there in tha wrestlin' world.. It doesn't matta.. Because, I'm realistic, I'm not gonna be champ fo'eva, I'm not tha baddest man on tha block but I will fight you ta sho' dat Duce Jones ain't somebody ta fuck wit.. So next week, if anyone out there wants a shot at takin' dis Nawf American title off of my shoulder..

*Duce looks directly into the camera.*

Duce Jones: Come get introDuced!

*The fans cheer as Duce drops the mic and "Godspeed" starts back up, he raises the title to the crowd once more, as he then exits the ring and makes his way back towards the backstage area.*

Rockwell: A bold challenge from the North American Champion!

Hood: You mean "Nawf", right?

Rockwell: However it's pronounced, the champ is ready for action next week, and in the near future!

Singles Match
Ed Houston (3-2) vs. Peter "The Janitor" Vaughn (6-15-1)

Minos: The next match... is scheduled for one fall... entering the arena... standing 5'6" and weighing 175 lbs... from Dallas, Texas... he is a former GCWA Hardcore Champion... here is Peter "The Janitor" Vaughn!!

*The hometown fans start cheering loudly, loving the underdog known as The Janitor. "Eye of the Tiger" by Survivor begins to play, and Peter Vaughn walks out on the stage, carrying his trusty mop. He shakes it to the beat of the song, trying to get himself fired up. He heads for the ring, giving a few fans a high five with the mop along the way.*

Hood: So do we know if Vaughn ended up taking that supplement?

Rockwell: Hard to tell from the way he's moving at this point, Hood. Vaughn considers the 'drugs' an addiction, so it'd be better if he didn't.

Hood: But he's won two of the biggest matches of his life with vitamins and supplements in his system. Sure, they're not having a great medical effect, but he gains a psychological edge from it.

Rockwell: So you're saying...

Hood: Dude should keep taking the drugs.

Minos: His opponent... standing 5'9" and weighing 175 lbs... from Miami, Florida... he's one of the most respected wrestlers in the GCWA today... here is "The Rocketman" Ed Houston!!

*The screen turns black and then slowly starts to count down from 10. Once it hits 1 the sound of a rocket taking off echoes throughout the arena. You're Gonna Go Far , Kid starts to blare as Ed Houston slowly makes his way down the entrance ramp. He stops by fans in the crowd and high fives them. Once he gets about half way down the ramp, he sprints and slides under the rope. He quickly jumps to his feet and makes his way up to the turnbuckle where he waves to the crowd.*

Rockwell: Ed Houston's been involved in a very heated feud with The Incredible One as of late, but the intensity went up last week with the intervention of Dylan Thomas.

Hood: I feel badly for Ed. Truly. I mean, I can't see him standing against The Incredible One on his own, but now he's got to fight Perfection Personified as well?

Rockwell: Somehow I don't see Houston backing down.

Hood: He should, but his pride won't let him. If he was smart, he'd apologize to TIO and try and get on his good side again.

*The Bell Rings.*

Rockwell: Here we go! Can Peter Vaughn keep the winning streak going?

Hood: Man, if he beats Ed Houston as well, you've gotta think he deserves a title shot, right?

Rockwell: I'd say he earned it then, yes.

Hood: 2019 is a strange year...

*Houston stretches once more on the ropes, then comes forward, ready for action. Vaughn takes a deep breath and approaches as well, extending his right hand. Houston stops, looking down at the hand, then out at the crowd, who are cheering the gesture. Houston shrugs, then shakes Vaughn's hand, showing some good sportsmanship. The two men then start to circle each other before locking up, with Houston getting a head lock. Vaughn immediately pushes Houston towards the ropes, shooting him off of them. As Houston returns, Vaughn tries a running clothesline, but Houston ducks under it. He comes back, leaping with a spinning kick, but Vaughn barely is able to do a slide under it, avoiding the strike. He hops back up, running back towards Houston, with Houston catching him with a hip toss. But Vaughn, shockingly, lands on his feet, then turns, grabbing Houston and performing his own hip toss. Houston flips over as well, but also re-balances and lands on his feet. The two men turn towards each other, set, as the crowd cheers in appreciation.*

Rockwell: What a great start! Vaughn is actually keeping up with Houston with every step!

Hood: Okay, then, dude must have taken the drugs.

Rockwell: Confidence can work just as well as any supplement, Hood.

Hood: Whatever. Vaughn popped the pills. It's obvious.

*Vaughn does seem to be running on some high energy, as he locks up with Houston again. This time, Vaughn whips Houston towards the corner, but Houston reverses, throwing Vaughn into it. Vaughn tries to do a quick climb up the 'buckle, to jump off, but slips on the rope, almost falling off. He manages to right himself, but Houston has followed him by this point, hammering Vaughn in the back with a forearm. Vaughn slumps forward, and Houston quickly turns him around, positioning him on the apron. Houston then jumps up with him, latching onto him with his legs and flipping Vaughn off the top with a Frankensteiner!! Vaughn crashes down hard, stunned, as Houston manages to slide himself over to make the cover... 1... 2... and Vaughn manages to kick out.*

Rockwell: Houston showing off his talent like always!

Hood: Man, just think, in an alternate reality, Houston accepted the offers of the Barrows and became the World Champion.

Rockwell: I don't believe in alternate realities.

Hood: You just don't want to think about where you could have been.

Rockwell: True, being away from you does sound like a dream life sometimes.

*Houston has Vaughn back up now, landing a series of kicks to stagger The Janitor and keep him on the defensive. He drives Vaughn backwards, then steps into him, taking him over with a cradle suplex! The referee slides in... 1... 2... and Vaughn kicks out again. Houston, not bothered by this in the least, kips back up to his feet, always an impressive display of athleticism. He waits for Vaughn to sit up, then runs towards him, scoring a shining wizard kick!! Vaughn's down again, but this time Houston doesn't bother to go for the cover. He moves to the side, setting himself up for the Houston, We've Got A Problem superkick!! The fans alternate between cheers and concern, as many don't want to see Vaughn's winning streak end. The reaction changes, though, as they spot who's coming towards the ring.*

Rockwell: Wait, what is Dylan Thomas doing out here??

Hood: I guess he wanted a closer look at the competition.

Rockwell: He has a match to worry about later, the guy doesn't need to be here!

Hood: Nothing wrong with looking!

*As Houston glances to his side, Dylan Thomas jumps up on the apron. The referee is immediately over there, arguing with him, but Thomas seems to be trying to make a point about something illegal Houston has done. Houston shakes his head, then turns back to Vaughn... even as The Incredible One comes through the ropes behind him! The crowd roars, and Houston immediately spins, surprising The Incredible One and clotheslining him right back out of the ring!! TIO flips head over heels, landing on his feet for a second before falling backwards to the outside mat. Houston glares out at him, yelling a few choice words at his rival... and then getting yanked backwards, as Peter Vaughn cradles him into a pinning predicament, just like he did with TIO last week!! The referee, alerted by Thomas, spins around and slides into place, making the count... 1... 2... NO!!! Houston kicks out at the last moment!*

Hood: Wow! We almost had a repeat of last week!

Rockwell: And all due to the distraction from The Incredible One!

Hood: He's just looking for some revenge, using the methods that Houston went with last week.

*Vaughn is in disbelief, thinking he had this one won. He clearly has no idea what else has been going on, as he's focused on Houston. As The Rocketman gets up, Vaughn leaps at him, going for the Wax On, Wax Off (Zig Zag)! But Houston shoves Vaughn away from him, blocking the move. Vaughn drops to the mat, but frantically tries to spring back towards Houston... who scores the Houston, We Have A Problem superkick!!! Vaughn crumples to the ground, even as Houston hurries to the turnbuckle, heading up top. He positions himself for Blastoff, set to leap. But Dylan Thomas and The Incredible One are suddenly there, on both sides of Houston, shoving him off the 'buckle!! Houston, out of control, flips and crashes to the mat nearby Vaughn, as the referee, shocked by this blatant interference, calls for the bell.*

Minos: Here is your winner... via Disqualification... "The Rocketman" Ed Houston!!

Rockwell: So much for subterfuge, Thomas & TIO just opted for the straight attack!

Hood: Yeah, I think TIO wanted Houston to be humiliated by a loss to Vaughn, but when Plan A went out the window, he always has a Plan B.

*Vaughn pulls himself up, holding a hand on the side of his head where the superkick landed. He looks confused at the bell ringing, not remembering being pinned, although that's obviously happened before to him. He turns... and Dylan Thomas is there, delivering the Perfect Finisher!! Vaughn flops to his back and rolls out of the ring in agony, falling to the outside. Thomas gets up, smirking at The Incredible One, who returns the look. They turn back towards Houston, intent on doing more damage. But now Houston is back up and on the attack, snapping off kicks and chops at both men!!*

Rockwell: Houston's taking on them both!!

Hood: Idiot should have run when he had the chance!

*The crowd pops as Houston knocks Thomas down with a well-placed shot to the midsection, then turns and blocks a TIO strike, spinning him backwards. Houston then sets, going for his superkick again... but Thomas lunges forward, grabbing hold of Houston's stationary leg! Houston tries to pull free, but he can't do it in time, as TIO jumps back, getting a European uppercut that knocks Houston backwards to the canvas. TIO and Thomas then both get up, stomping away on the defenseless Rocketman, as the fans in attendance let their displeasure sound out.*

Hood: See? He should have run!

Rockwell: The numbers were just too great! Houston needs help here!

Hood: Hah, like anyone in this locker room would put themselves out there for him!

*After a few more kicks, TIO signals to Thomas, and they lift Houston up. Houston tries to fight back, but can't do anything as Thomas is holding his arms. TIO smacks him a few times insultingly, then boots him before lifting him up and landing This Damn Incredible (Argentine piledriver)!!! Houston is out, as Thomas and TIO stand over him as a unit, smiling down at him. The crowd is irate, as we cut away from ringside.*

*The scene shows backstage where Jones is standing, ready for an interview. *

Jones: Hello everyone, tonight.... Who, who are you?

*"Mad Dog" Mark Wright walks into the shot, looking like a drunk homeless man. Mad Dog has an American flag bandanna tied around his head, his beard is scraggly, and his Willie Nelson shirt is stained. In one hand he holds a Mountain Dew bottle he is using as a spittoon and in the other hand is a can of Natural Lite.*

Mad Dog: What up, Jonesy Boy?

Jones: Uh, Sir this area is for GCWA employees only. I'm going to have to ask you to return to your seat in the arena.

Mad Dog: What are talking about? I'm the Mad Dog baby.

Jones: What? Sir, please....

Mad Dog: ROOF! ROOF! ROOF!

*Mad Dog starts barking at Jones. Jones jumps back, obviously frightened.*

Jones: SECURITY! Security, please remove this man.

*Two security guards appear, and each grabs an arm of Mad Dog.*

Mad Dog: HEY! Get your hands off me. I cleared my warrants up.

*Sunny Jim runs onto the scene, holding a rolled up piece of paper.*

Sunny Jim: Hold on, hold on. Unhand my client. I hold in my hand right here "Mad Dog" Mark Wright's contract. I can assure you that he is indeed an employee of the Global Championship Wrestling Association.

Jones: This guy? This guy works for the GCWA?

*Sunny Jim shows the contract to Jones and the security guards. The guards release Mad Dog. Mad Dog mean mugs the guards, and spits into his Mountain Dew bottle.*

Jones: So, who are you?

Sunny Jim: I am the legal, contractual, motivational, inspirational, counselor, representative, coach, advisory, trainer, tutor, and confidant for "Mad Dog" Mark Wright. We have come to the Global Championship Wrestling Association to show the world that Mark Wright is the toughest man in the sport of professional wrestling today, and maybe even the toughest man walking the face of the planet.

Mad Dog: Yeah baby, and I'm here to get dat paper. Old Mad Dog's gotta feed them kids and dat baby momma. She a big girl, them kids always hungry, we got a big grocery list.

Sunny Jim: We will indeed get "that paper" (using air quotes). We are also going to get wins and get gold. Mark Wright is a third generation wrestler and the BEST so far. So, everyone in GCWA better get ready because the Mad Dog is about to be let off his chain.

Mad Dog: That's right Sunny baby. This Mad Dog is ready to bite, and hey baby, and just next week we'll see if the GCWA can run with big, mad dog, or if they need to stay on the porch. Until then, I'm gonna go finish this case of Natty and watch the rest of the show.

*Mad Dog and Sunny Jim leave the interview area, and Jones still looks shocked at the signing of Mad Dog Mark Wright. We fade out.*

*We cut backstage where we see GCWA newly signed talent Adi Goldblum is on her cell phone chatting with god knows who.*

Adi: ... Of course it's bull crap. My father and grandfather have no idea how to run a company. But with this wrestling gig and hopefully Circle TV picking up my pilot television show. Things will be picking up for Adi...

*Fisher Goldblum, her older brother, is seen lurking around the background. He sneaks up to Adi and attempts to frighten her. He fails. She just looks at him with an evil stare.*

Adi: I'll call you back...

*She puts her phone down and looks at her brother.*

Adi: Are you ready for next week? Because I am. You see it's either you or me who make our debut this joint. Or the both of us. I know I've seen being busy. But wrestling? For me? Is just a side project. All these fools running around this place. Need this work. Just. Like. You. FIsher! So FIshy, you better be on your game for next week because I have no intentions of failing. You never know who GCWA will throw at us. I mean guys like The Incredible One, Chad Vargas and the champ Big Bifford are just names. Fisher, I know if you have my back and... well... i kind of have yours. We can get through these idiots too.

*Fisher smiles as he rubs his fists together.*

Adi: Ed Houston seems to be the face of the company, and that terd-alert thinks he is the GOLD standard... well he hasn't met me. Annnnnd, You. Next week we show the world why our last name is gold.

*Fisher nods making a grunting noise.*

Adi: Now go get me a cup of Joe!

*Fisher nods and stands there. Adi looks at him confused.*

Adi: Um, now?

*Fisher nods and creepily staggers to the catering as Adi checks her phone. We go to ringside.*

Rockwell: We are getting some interesting signees, aren't we, Hood?

Hood: I'm just pleased that the GCWA is finally getting into the current century and has signed a girl!

Rockwell: A woman.

Hood: Don't be sexist, man.

Rockwell: ... Take us to the next match, Minos...

Singles Match
Crazy Chris (32-18-1) vs. Jace "The Reaper" (1-0)

Minos: The next match... is a Non-Title match... scheduled for one fall... introducing first... standing 6'3" and weighing 240 lbs... from Los Angeles, California... he is one-half of the GCWA World Tag-Team Champions... here is Jace "The Reaper"!!

*Super Beast by Rob Zombie hits as the white lights go down and ominous dark red ones fade in with Jace standing in the middle of the stage. He's wearing one of the GCWA World Tag-Team Titles around his waist. Jace slowly makes his way to the ring. He stops at the bottom of the stairs for a moment before continuing up them. Jace takes a moment on the apron and wipes his feet before stepping through the middle rope and making his way to the center of the ring where the lights come back to normal.*

Rockwell: Jace has been riding high after winning his first championship in the GCWA.

Hood: Man, if he defeats Crazy Chris here tonight, Jace and his partner Crash might be the tag-team champions for a long time.

Rockwell: There are a few other teams joining up, Hood, including Adi & Fisher Goldblum.

Hood: Yeah... Jace & Crash will be champs forever...

Rockwell: Speaking of Jace's partner, we've learned that both Crash Rodriguez and Dangerous Dan have been banned from ringside to keep this match a one-on-one contest.

Hood: That just seems unfair to the tag-team champions.

Rockwell: Well, when Dan and Crash had a match, it ended in a no-contest, so I think we're trying to prevent that from happening again.

Minos: His opponent... standing 6'0" and weighing 228 lbs... from Smithville, Tennessee... he is a GCWA Hall of Famer, and the current holder of the GCWA Unified X Division Championship... here is Crazy Chris!!

*The lights go out as a strobe of green and red begin flashing across the arena. At the same time we hear the guitar rip of Mental Health By Zebrahead play. We then get to:*

"Let's go"

*The guitar rip solo continues to play as the strobe lights flicker even faster. The first verse echoes over the PA:*

"The lights are on but there is no one home
Yeah, I'm the type of guy that shouldn't be left alone"

*Chris steps onto the stage staring out into the crowd. He stands a few moments and soaks the cheers in. The song plays so quickly that we now enter the chorus:*

"And all I want is to go home just for a bit
But these padded rooms are the shit
Whoa, I'm happy in my mental health
Whoa, these conversations with myself
Whoa, they say that only time will tell
Whatever I'm happy in my mental health
I'm happy in my mental health"

*Chris laughs and smiles as he now makes his way down the rampway towards the ring.*

"1, 2, 1, 2, 3, go

Hey, meet a friend of mine, now where'd he go?
He's probably sitting there but you would never know
They say just one more shock, try not to resist
They say lie down and bite on this"

*Chris now makes his way up the steps and poses on the top turnbuckle. He motions towards the crowd and even gestures along to the beat of the music. As the next verse plays Chris leaps down to the middle of the ring. He makes his way to the second turnbuckle when we get back to the main chorus:*

"Whoa, I'm happy in my mental health
Whoa, these conversations with myself
Whoa, they say that only time will tell
Whatever I'm happy in my mental health"

*Chris again smiles and stands in the middle of the ring pointing at his temple motioning that he is proud of his mental state.*

Rockwell: Crazy Chris was dealing with some strong feeling this past week.

Hood: I don't understand what the problem is. Sure, she's the sister of a friend, so what?

Rockwell: I think there's more to it than that, Hood.

Hood: I'm just saying, go for it!

*The Bell Rings.*

Hood: So let me get this straight. If Crazy Chris wins, the Danger Boiz get a Tag Titles shot.

Rockwell: Correct.

Hood: But if Jace wins, he DOESN'T get an X Division Title shot?

Rockwell: No, that contender is being decided later on in our main event.

Hood: So... how is that fair?

Rockwell: Look at it this way. If Jace wins, he's beaten a champion, which puts him in much better position for a singles title shot in the future.

Hood: I just don't think that's good enough...

*Crazy Chris hands off his X Division Championship to the referee for safekeeping, then turns to the corner, preparing himself. Jace, though, sees the opening and quickly comes in, pushing the referee out of the way and grabbing hold of Chris. He yanks Chris' head to the side, trying to bite into him with the Embrace!!! But Chris launches an amazing kick upwards, managing to strike a leaning Jace in the face, and gets free! Chris rolls to the side, as Jace shakes off the kick and turns to him, grinning. Chris gets up, staring at Jace, realizing how close that was to a catastrophe.*

Hood: Jace was ready to end it with one move!

Rockwell: That bite of his is lethal!

Hood: I mean, it could be lethal, I assume, if he sunk in deep enough.

Rockwell: Even in a place like the GCWA, that's a very unique finisher!

*Jace works to corner Crazy Chris, backing him up, still looking supremely confident. He charges, but Chris quickly jumps through the ropes, landing on the apron. Jace stops himself and turns, but Chris launches another kick, using the ropes for leverage. Jace staggers back, with Chris then springing up on the ropes and leaping off, taking Jace down with a flying bulldog! Jace, stunned, still starts to get back up, even as Chris runs to the other side and returns, hitting a running dropkick that knocks Jace into the corner! Chris then continues his momentum, racing for distance before returning with a leaping clothesline through the ropes in the corner, damaging Jace further. Jace walks forward on shaky legs, trying to get his bearings, but as he turns back around, Chris comes flying in again, this time with a springboard crossbody that allows Chris to fall on top, making the cover... 1... 2... but Jace kicks out!*

Rockwell: The speed of Crazy Chris is nearly unparalleled in the GCWA!

Hood: Can you imagine a match between him and Ed Houston?

Rockwell: It would definitely be a wild one.

Hood: We'd have to watch the whole match in slow motion to know what's going on...

*Jace works to get up, rising to his hands and knees. Chris, seeing this, runs off the ropes again and comes back, jumping up and getting a double stomp into Jace's back! Chris then points to the turnbuckle before starting his ascent. He's feeling the crowd, getting up the ropes very quickly. He positions himself, then leaps off, flipping through the air. Jace, though, rolls to the side, out of range, so Chris changes direction in mid-air, managing to land on his feet. He turns back to where Jace is getting up and races forward, but Jace suddenly turns and drops while holding the top rope, sending Chris toppling over, bouncing off the apron and landing on the outside!! Jace releases his grip on the ropes and lands in a seating position, looking pleased with what just happened.*

Rockwell: A very bad bump for Crazy Chris!

Hood: Actually, it was two bumps, and I don't know what was worse, the apron or the floor.

Rockwell: That's got to be a momentum changer, as Jace now has Chris right where he wants him.

Hood: Laying on the ground outside the ring?

Rockwell: Well, it certainly could lead to a countout victory, and there goes the Danger Boiz' chances at a rematch!

*The referee starts his count, as Jace takes a moment to himself, enjoying the silence from the fans. On the outside, we see Crazy Chris slowly getting up, recovering from the bad landing. Seeing this, Jace decides to head outside, going under the bottom rope with a slide. He grabs hold of Chris before he can get away, taking him by the head and whipping Chris into the guardrail along the outside! Chris slumps to the ground, hurting, as Jace comes in, landing a couple of kicks. He picks Chris up and lifts him into the air, showing his strength over the smaller wrestler as he bodyslams him on the outside mats! Jace then drags Chris back up, looking him in the eyes before tossing him back into the ring and following, stopping the count.*

Rockwell: Looks like Jace doesn't want a countout win.

Hood: He probably wants to taste Crazy Chris' blood.

Rockwell: That is absolutely disgusting.

Hood: Don't criticize other people's eating habits, Adrian. People enjoy different things, like sushi.

Rockwell: There's a big difference between eating sushi and biting someone's neck for blood!

Hood: It's raw fish, man. Raw. Fish.

*Back in the ring, Jace stays on the attack, kicking Crazy Chris to cause him to roll over in pain. Jace then reaches down, pulling Chris up off the ground and locking him into a dragon sleeper submission!! Chris struggles mightily, trying to get free, as Jace hangs onto his neck, looking down with interest. Chris tries the same attempt to escape, kicking his leg upwards, but this time Jace blocks it, knocking Chris's leg away with his free arm. He keeps the hold on tight, as the referee moves around them, checking for a submission. Chris won't tap out, but he's beginning to fade away. He finally sticks his leg out again, but this time it's towards the ropes, managing to barely get through. The ref calls for the break, so Jace breaks the hold... by dropping with a reverse DDT! Chris looks out of it, as Jace makes the cover, grabbing at the legs to make sure they're not under the ropes... 1... 2... and Crazy Chris manages to kick free in time.*

Rockwell: Jace is giving Crazy Chris all he can handle here tonight!

Hood: Why are you so surprised? Already forgotten that he & Crash won over the Danger Boiz at Homecoming? He should be the favorite here!

Rockwell: Maybe, but Crazy Chris is a Hall of Famer, which means he's always a threat to win!

Hood: At the bingo hall, maybe, but his time is passing rapidly. It's a New Era!

*Crazy Chris slowly pulls himself up to a sitting position, then starts to rise, feeling the pain he's endured during this match. Behind him, Jace waits for him to get up, prepared to end it all with the Embrace! But as Jace grabs Chris from behind, yanking at his neck, Chris rapidly pulls himself away, spinning and kicking Jace, before landing the Crazy Days (TKO Facebuster)!! Both wrestlers are down, as the crowd pops for the quick move. The ref stands over both men, starting a double count, but he only gets to 5 before Chris starts to get up again, shaking his head. Jace sits up as well, trying to get upright. Chris, seeing him back up, jumps in quickly with a sharp kick to the chest, knocking Jace back down, and then does a standing moonsault straight onto his opponent! The ref slides in for the count... 1... 2... but Jace throws a shoulder up at the last second.*

Rockwell: Crazy Chris is getting the momentum now!

Hood: Someone tell Crash to get his ass down here!

Rockwell: He's banned from ringside, Hood, remember?

Hood: C'mon, Jonathan, make a quick exception for the champs!

*The crowd is chanting for the Danger Boiz, getting behind the challenger, as Crazy Chris gets himself to his feet. He tugs on the mask, gaining some energy from the crowd. As Jace slowly gets up, looking stunned, Chris moves in, showing his strength by getting Jace up and over with the Inverted Sanity (Inverted suplex)!! Jace is back down on the mat, but struggling to recover, as Chris hustles over to the nearby corner. He goes up, setting himself up on the top, as Jace rises up on wobbly legs. It works straight into Crazy Chris' plan, as the Unified X Division Champion is ready for him. He flies off the turnbuckle, nailing Jace with the Crazy Man's Suicide!!! The kick lands perfectly, planting Jace out on the mat. Chris quickly scrambles back for the pin, hanging onto the legs as the ref slides in... 1... 2... 3!!!!*

Minos: Here is your winner... Crazy Chris!!

Rockwell: And with that, Crazy Chris has earned his team a GCWA World Tag-Team Titles shot in the future!

Hood: Damn it, if Crash had been there, this wouldn't have happened.

Rockwell: Maybe, but Crash has his own match to worry about later tonight, which might get him his own shot against Chris. For now, though the Danger Boiz and the Prodigal Sons will be facing off again, but will it be at GCWA High Rollers?

*Crazy Chris climbs the turnbuckle, holding onto his championship, as the fans give him a cheer. The cheers get louder as Dangerous Dan suddenly appears, hurrying to the ring. He jumps in, giving his brother a hug, and he quickly holds Chris' arm in the air. In the other corner, Jace pulls himself up, looking frustrated. We cut away.*

*The camera cuts backstage where a frustrated looking Ed Houston is pacing around. Bob Black cuts into the view of the camera.*

Bob Black: What's going on?

Ed Houston: I'm tired of these attacks by TIO and now Dylan Thomas is working with him. Jesus.

Bob Black: Did you hear his challenge to you earlier tonight?

Ed Houston: Oh I heard.

Bob Black: And?

Ed Houston: And what do you think, Bob. Of course I accept it.

*Ed turns and faces the camera.*

Ed Houston: Let's do this at High Rollers, "Incredible One." I don't care what kind of match you want or the Barrows' decide to put us in. All I know is I want to face you and prove that TIO really stands for The Ineffective One.

*Ed's eyes move from the camera.

Ed Houston: Come on Bob we're out of here.

*Houston stomps off still angry. Bob tries to follow his lead but isn't quite able to stomp off with the same gusto as the cameras cut a way.*

*Back at ringside, the fans are booing as "Dangerous" by Within Temptation plays out the co-owner of the GCWA, Jonathan Barrows. Hunter is nowhere to be seen this week, having either stayed back with the secretaries or finding some other business to keep him occupied.*

Hood: Stand up, Adrian! The man in charge is here, show some respect!

Rockwell: If he's got no respect for his father, I've got no respect for him.

Hood: Dude, I don't want someone like that Chaz guy to replace you. Get with the program!

*Jonathan steps into the ring, mic in hand. He looks to be wearing a designer suit this evening. The crowd doesn't care, they start an "Asshole" chant anyway. He waits for it to die down, more than willing to waste the time of the fans.*

Jonathan Barrows: I love the enthusiasm of our fanbase. Trust me, when you see what Hunter and I are doing for you, your attitude will change. I guarantee it.

*The boos seem to indicate no change is on the horizon.*

Jonathan Barrows: I'm out here today for one simple reason: to announce the #1 contender for the GCWA World Heavyweight Title!

Hood: Oh, man, I hope it's Dylan Thomas! Or TIO!

Rockwell: For all we know, Jonathan made himself the #1 contender.

Hood: Would that be so bad? The Big Bifford vs. Pryde, that would sell a PPV all on its own!

Jonathan Barrows: First off, let's have a warm welcome for your Heavyweight Champion of the World... The Big Bifford!

Rockwell: Hey, the champ is here!

*The fans pop at the announcement, then get louder as "Gangsta's Paradise" by Coolio plays. The video runs, showing Bifford as the World Champion. Jonathan waits patiently, his arms positioned behind his back. But strangely, no one appears.*

Rockwell: ... Is the champ here?

Hood: Someone tell Bifford he's missing his cue!

*Jonathan, looking puzzled, raises his mic up again.*

Jonathan Barrows: Let's give this another try... the Heavyweight, and I mean Heavyweight, Champion of the World... The Big Bifford!

*The music starts again, with a slightly more muted response from the crowd. They sense that something isn't right. Once again, Bifford doesn't appear.*

Hood: Well, this is awkward.

Rockwell: Have we got any cameras backstage?

*As Jonathan looks towards the big screen, the image suddenly shifts, showing a hallway in the GCWA Arena. We follow a trail of discarded hams, some of which have large bite marks in them. They lead us down the hallway.*

Rockwell: What the hell?

Hood: Hey, this looks familiar...

*The camera continues to move along the trail, until it comes to a door at the end of the hallway. Loud banging can be heard behind the door, as someone is trying to get free. However, a large food cart has been parked in front of the door, blocking it in.*

Rockwell: The Big Bifford has been trapped!

Hood: He followed the line of hams! Scott Syren did the same thing to him back in OCW!

Rockwell: And to add insult to injury, it's a Chick-Fil-A food cart!!

Hood: That's just cold...

*As the banging continues, a figure steps in front of the camera. For a moment, all we can see is his back, as he admires his handiwork. The camera slowly pans up, showing the back of the man's head, as he slowly turns towards the camera with a satisfied smirk.*

Rockwell: Oh shit!

Hood: It's Eric Dane!!! Eric Dane is here in the GCWA!!

*The crowd reacts negatively, even as Dane turns and starts walking down the hall, kicking a few of the discarded hams out of his way. The banging continues behind him, not stopping. We cut back to ringside, where Jonathan Barrows is still looking on, a small smile now on his face.*

Rockwell: Clearly Jonathan Barrows knew all about this!

Hood: So does that mean Eric Dane is the new #1 contender?

Rockwell: I don't see any other possibility, Hood!

*The arena sound system struggles to contain the opening strains of Rob Halford's "The One You Love to Hate" as the house lights drop and the strobes kick in.*

Hood: Listen. I'm here to tell you, Eric Dane is a goddamned force of nature! He was in the middle of taking the OCW by storm when they went out of business, and that includes nearly crippling Hall of Famer Bob Grenier in his Pay-Per-View debut with that company!

Rockwell: The man's pedigree goes without question, Hood, but inquiring minds have got to know, what is The Only Star doing here in GCWA?

*The boos continue as The Antagonist steps out onto the stage, suited and booted in a cornflower blue and white houndstooth tailored suit. His hair is slicked back into just a bit more than a man-bun, and a smile is plastered widely across his face. The crowd can't stand him as he makes his way to ringside, taking his sweet time to wipe both leather-clad feet on the apron before stepping through the ropes and making a hugely exaggerated deal out of shaking hands with Jonathan Barrows.*

Hood: Look at that, Adrian, it's a new day here in GCWA!

Rockwell: I think I'm gonna blow chunks.

Jonathan Barrows: Ladies and gentlemen, I give you the Number One Contender to The Big Bifford's World Championship…

*More boos.*

Jonathan Barrows: The Only Star! Mr. Eric Dane!

*With a flourish, he hands the microphone over. Dane brings it to his lips, but the crowd is merciless with their discontent.*

Eric Dane: . . .

*He waits, the smirk on his face ever-widening. After a moment he taps the mic a couple of times to make sure that it's loud enough.*

Eric Dane: I can do this all goddamned night.

*Even. More. Boos. A cup flies just past his head, narrowly missing.*

Eric Dane: You morons understand I have a microphone, right?

Rockwell: Dane is definitely not ingratiating himself with the crowd here tonight, Hood.

Hood: If he were, something would be wrong, that much I can tell you.

Eric Dane: Jesus, no wonder Bifford is the champion around here, between his giant ass and this fucking crowd there's a combined IQ of about fourteen! I mean seriously, I thought that whole "trail of hams" thing was some bullshit gimmick...

*The Adversary pauses.*

Eric Dane: And then he fell for it! Again! Are you fucking serious? Whatever, it doesn't even matter, because before that giant hambone-gnawing goofy fuck gets the six or seven belt-extenders that he's gonna need to wrap the GCWA World Title around his waist...

*Wait for it.*

Eric Dane: ...I'm gonna take it from him! And there ain't a damned thing that Bifford, any of the moons currently trapped in his orbit, or any of you people can do about it!

Rockwell: So Eric Dane with the shocking appearance tonight.

Hood: And Bifford can't do anything about it, because he couldn't resist the ham!

*The camera switches back to where the Chic-Fil-A cart was blocking the door. But now, the cart is laying on its side, and the door has been busted wide open. There's no sign of anyone around. Jonathan, noticing the change in the crowd, turns and looks at the screen, then points it out to Dane.*

Hood: Uh oh...

Rockwell: The champ is loose!

*Suddenly, "Gangsta's Paradise" by Coolio starts to play again, and the crowd roars as The Big Bifford walks out onto the stage!! He looks like he's just had a war with a door, and won, and is ready for more. In his right hand is a half-eaten ham. He stomps towards the ring, wasting no time as he comes up the stairs. However, on the other side, Eric Dane and Jonathan Barrows quickly head out, moving away. Dane shakes his head at Bifford, smiling, and shouts to him about Bifford not choosing the time or place. Bifford glares at them both, as they head back up the aisle.*

Rockwell: Barrows and Dane are moving pretty quick there away from the champion!

Hood: Bifford doesn't get to choose when the fight begins, that's up to Dane and Jonathan!

Rockwell: Well, we know when they're set for, as they'll be facing off at GCWA High Rollers!

*The crowd starts a "Biff End" chant as Bifford steps back out of the ring, still glaring in the direction where Dane & Barrows just left. He takes another bite of the ham, then starts back up the aisle, as the crowd continues to cheer for the champ.*

Hood: At least Bifford got a meal out of all this.

Rockwell: I guarantee he isn't satisfied, and won't be until he gets his hands on Eric Dane.

Hood: Be careful what you wish for, big man!

*Bifford departs to the back, as we return to the ring, where Minos is readying for our main event.*

GCWA Unified X Division Title #1 Contenders Triple Threat Match
Crash Rodriguez (2-0-1) vs. Dylan Thomas (2-2) vs. Chad Vargas (3-1)

Minos: It is time... for our main event... of the evening... this will be a Triple Threat match... with the winner becoming the GCWA Unified X Division Title #1 Contender!

*The crowd pops, always loving it when a Friday Night Inferno main event is this important.*

Minos: Now coming to the ring... standing 5'11" and weighing 204 lbs... from Kansas City, Missouri... he is one-half of the current GCWA World Tag-Team Champions... here is "The Crooked Man" Crash Rodriguez!!

*As the opening riff of "21st Century Schizoid Man" fills the arena, Crash Rodriguez, wearing a crown of barbed wire. starts to walk down the ramp. As the second verse, "Blood Rack, Barbed Wire", plays Crash holds his head and starts to squeal and shake, as if calming the pain inside his head. As he regains his composure, he removes his barbed wire crown and he enters the ring as the solo begins playing, he leans against a turnbuckle and falls to a seated position, rocking back in forth until the solo fades away.*

Rockwell: Crash is looking to add another championship to his run in the GCWA!

Hood: I don't know why he wasn't just proclaimed the #1 contender. I mean, he's already got a victory over Crazy Chris from Homecoming, isn't that good enough?

Rockwell: That tag win doesn't count for the X Division Title contenders.

Hood: Well, it should!

Minos: Next, making their way to the ring... standing 6'2" and weighing 225 lbs... from Greenwich, Connecticut, but currently residing in Hollywood, California... he is a former GCWA North American Champion... joined by his wife, Lissandra, and his partner, The Incredible One... here is "Perfection Personified" Dylan Thomas!!

* 'Somebody's Gonna Get It' starts up and Dylan Thomas emerges through the curtain arm in arm with his wife Lissandra Thomas. Both have a huge air of arrogance about them. The Incredible One walks out behind them, looking very pleased with what's happening. The arena is FILLED with boos at these three. Does it phase them? Not in the least. They make their way to the ring with huge smirks on their faces and Dylan helps Lissandra up onto the apron. The Incredible One gets on the other side, and they hold the ring ropes open for her. She climbs through and kisses her man as she does so. The Incredible One drops back to the outside, taunting a nearby fan. In the ring, Dylan arrogantly shouts at the people whilst on the nearest corner and Lissandra stays in the ring showing off her man, applauding. As the music dies down, Dylan helps his wife out of the ring before eyeing his competition.*

Rockwell: Some flashy new ring gear for Dylan Thomas, thanks to their connection to Heidi Klum.

Hood: I was really hoping she'd show up with them, or maybe have Leo come out again.

Rockwell: I think TIO is the more important issue right now. Why is he out here?

Hood: To root on his new ally to victory, why else?

Rockwell: You seriously think he won't try to involve himself?

Hood: That's up to the referee to spot, not you.

Minos: Entering last... standing 6'4" and weighing 240 lbs... from Knoxville, Tennessee... he is an OCW Hall of Famer, looking to do the same in the GCWA... here is "The Confederate Icon" Chad Vargas!!

*"Needle and the Spoon" by Lynyrd Skynyrd hits the speakers, earning a strong reaction from the crowd. Many are cheering, happy to have such a legendary wrestler here, but others are booing just out of pure instinct. Chad Vargas struts out of the back, barely acknowledging the crowd as he heads for the ring.*

Rockwell: Vargas was last seen saving his job at Homecoming by ending the GCWA careers of R.M. Strong and The Lost Soul!

Hood: And now he's gone from almost being out to possibly being a #1 contender! That's the Confederate Icon for you!

Rockwell: He'll have his hands full, though, with two young stars who are hungry for gold.

*The Bell Rings.*

Rockwell: Hard to see who the fans are going to cheer for here. Dylan Thomas and TIO are hated right now due to their attacks on Ed Houston. Crash might be too insane to cheer for. And Vargas has been booed for most of his career.

Hood: If the fans are smart, they're supporting Perfection Personified. Might as well back a winner!

*Vargas looks ready to go, using the ropes to stretch his back. He suddenly turns, though, as The Incredible One is up on the apron, smiling at an old rival. Vargas mouths off at TIO, cursing at him, but suddenly Vargas gets yanked down from behind by Dylan Thomas into a pinning predicament! Dylan grabs at the tights, hanging on, as the ref is there... 1... 2... and Crash is there to break it up at the last second! He kicks at Dylan, trying to drive him quickly from the ring, angry at the near fall. But Crash is then pulled backwards as well, as Vargas, recovered from his shock, rolls Crash up! The ref starts counting again... 1... 2.. and Dylan jumps back in with a kick, knocking Vargas off. Crash then rolls into Dylan's legs, dropping him, and we get another attempt... 1... 2.. and Vargas breaks it up!*

Rockwell: Everyone's looking for the quick win!

Hood: Why exert yourself when you can walk out the #1 contender without a sweat?

Rockwell: It's not going to be that easy.

*Vargas sends Crash into the ropes, looking for a clothesline, but Crash ducks under the attempt, hits the other side and comes back with a Thesz Press, taking Vargas down and punching away at him! The crowd pops at this, even as Dylan comes back in, running off the ropes and going for a running kick. But Crash pulls Vargas up to a sitting position, and Dylan hits him instead! Dylan, not exactly having a problem with this, goes after Crash, but Crash jumps up, bashing Dylan in the head with a headbutt! Dylan staggers back, then shakes his head clear. As Crash grabs at him, Dylan reaches up, raking the eyes! Crash, blinded, steps back, with the ref admonishing Dylan. He laughs it off and grabs Crash... who grabs at Dylan's head, going for an eye gouge of his own!! Dylan's suddenly yelling for the ref to get involved, yanking at Crash's hand, as Crash relentlessly goes for revenge!*

Rockwell: We're going to need to make some appointments with eye doctors!

Hood: Get Crash to stop! Dylan needs his perfect eyesight!

Rockwell: Turnabout is fair play!

Hood: You wouldn't say that if that was Houston in there!

*Lissandra is up on the apron, wanting the ref to take control of this one, as Crash and Dylan continue to go at it, exchanging shots. Suddenly, though, both men are given a boot from Chad Vargas, who grabs them both by the head and drops with a double Snakeskin DDT!!! Vargas quickly twists himself over to cover Crash... 1... 2... but Crash kicks out. Vargas, not stopping, jumps over onto Dylan, trying to hold him down instead... 1... 2... and Dylan won't stay down, either. Vargas annoyingly curses the ref, before getting back up. He shouts a few words out of the ring as well before picking up Dylan Thomas, setting him in place for a suplex. But Dylan suddenly reverses, taking Vargas over with a German suplex! Dylan then makes the cover... 1... and Crash is right there to break it up.*

Rockwell: Momentum is shifting rapidly in this one.

Hood: Man, I really hate rooting against Vargas and Crash, but dammit, c'mon, Dylan!

Rockwell: Well, at least you're consistent.

*Crash and Dylan are going at it again, as Vargas takes a moment to recover near the ropes. Crash takes control with a series of strikes to the head with elbow shots, putting Dylan into the corner. He works over Dylan, getting a choke in the corner that requires the ref to do a 5 count for the break. Crash angrily pushes the ref back, risking a DQ, but the ref is being a little more lenient here. Dylan comes back out of the corner, swinging wildly, but Crash ducks it, then grabs Dylan by the back of the head and swings him down with a neckbreaker! Crash then gets up, heading to the ropes... but Vargas reaches up, grabbing the top rope, and Crash goes toppling to the outside! Vargas then runs in, dropping a quick elbow onto Dylan before making the cover... 1... 2... and Dylan shoves Vargas off of him, keeping the match going.*

Hood: This is the time! Dylan needs to recover and come back while Crash is outside!

Rockwell: Right now, it's Vargas' advantage.

Hood: That won't last! I hope...

*Vargas brings Dylan up, wanting to set him up quickly for the Stroke, but Dylan goes back to the eyes, getting in a thumb that blinds Vargas. The referee isn't happy, but Dylan doesn't care, pushing Vargas into the corner and giving him several forearm shots. Lissandra is cheering him on, pounding on the mat along with the strikes, keeping the ref's attention at her closeness. Meanwhile, on the other side of the ring, Crash is trying to get back up after his landing... only to have The Incredible One grab him and whip Crash into the side of the ringpost!! Crash tumbles hard to the side, as TIO looks back towards the ref, making sure he's not paying attention. Still having time, TIO grabs Crash again and launches him into the guardrail, leaving him in a heap, before quickly walking away from the action.*

Rockwell: Blatant cheating!

Hood: Dylan's not even using closed fists, Adrian!

Rockwell: I'm talking about what just happened to Crash!!

Hood: Oh? Did something just happen? I wasn't looking that way...

*Crash is down, hurting, on the outside. The ref finally gives a glance that direction, but doesn't think much of it after having seen Crash's fall earlier. In the ring, Dylan has Vargas down on the mat. He grabs hold of Vargas' legs, bringing them up, before pushing off of them and bringing himself around for a senton leg drop, landing it perfectly! With Lissandra cheering from the outside, Dylan makes the cover, hanging onto the legs... 1... 2... and Vargas manages to kick out in time. Dylan, a little annoyed, goes back to the legs, applying an ankle lock submission hold to keep working Vargas over. Outside, The Incredible One is watching with a large smile. He looks back over at where Crash Rodriguez is trying to recover, then checks the referee again. He starts to head that direction, but gets distracted as a fan starts to jump the guardrail in front of him... the hat flies off, revealing that it's not just a fan, it's Ed Houston!! The crowd erupts as Houston tackles The Incredible One, pounding away on him!! The two men start brawling frantically, to the roar of the fans.*

Rockwell: Houston's here!

Hood: Damn it, that's a DQ, isn't it? Dylan Thomas wins!

Rockwell: For Houston attacking TIO??

Hood: Who's here for Thomas, therefore, it's an attack on Thomas! Right?

Rockwell: Wrong!

Hood: Damn it!

*Dylan Thomas, witnessing what's going on outside the ring, drops the ankle lock and wanders over in that direction, thinking about leaving the ring to help The Incredible One. But Lissandra waves him back, saying that it'll all be covered. Suddenly, security is once again appearing around the ring, this time working to break up the fight between the two wrestlers. They seem to be concentrating more on Houston, moving him backwards. Dylan nods, satisfied, and turns back around... right into Vargas, who lands the Lethal Strike swinging neckbreaker!! Thomas hits hard, as a hurting Vargas drops on top of him for the cover. The referee hurries into position... 1... 2... and Dylan gets out of it, putting a foot on the ropes. Lissandra breathes a deep sigh of relief, even as Vargas angrily pounds the mat, thinking he had it.*

Rockwell: The distraction almost cost Dylan Thomas the match!

Hood: Damn that Ed Houston!

Rockwell: If they didn't want Houston involved, TIO should have stayed in the back!

Hood: TIO has every right to be there. Houston should be fined or suspended!

*Security seems to have things back under control, as Houston is being restrained and backed away. TIO nods to one of the security guards... and then runs forward, diving into the mix and attacking Houston! The security again scrambles to separate the two men. Meanwhile, in the ring, Vargas slowly brings up Thomas, wanting to finish things. He sets Thomas up, wanting to land The Stroke!! But Dylan struggles against the hold, blocking it, keeping Vargas from dropping. Vargas tries to redouble his efforts... and suddenly he's hit from behind, as Crash Rodriguez has returned! The crowd pops as Crash hammers on Vargas a few times, sending Dylan sprawling forward. As Vargas tries to fight back, Crash stuns him with a shot under the chin, then locks him up quickly and drops with Twisted Memories!!!! The impact sends Crash rolling away from Vargas, who looks to be out cold!*

Rockwell: Twisted Memories!!! It's over, once Crash makes the cover!

Hood: TIO, stop fighting Houston and get over here!

*While security still works on the chaos outside the ring, Crash crawls back over to Vargas, grabbing at a leg and making the cover... 1... and Dylan Thomas is there, nailing Crash in the side of the head with a brutal kick!! Crash flops over on his side, as Dylan quickly drags a barely-moving Vargas back up, setting him in place. Lissandra cheers from the outside, even as Dylan takes Vargas over with the Perfect Finisher!! The impact is terrible, clearly knocking Vargas completely out. Dylan Thomas makes the cover, barely bothering to keep all his weight on the man. The referee is right there... 1... 2... 3!!!!*

Minos: Here is your winner... and the NEW #1 Contender for the GCWA Unified X Division Title... "Perfection Personified" Dylan Thomas!!

Hood: YES!!

Rockwell: Dylan Thomas gets a huge victory, even though he had a lot of help to do it!

Hood: What are you talking about? TIO had to deal with Houston for the last half of that match. Dylan won it all on his own!

Rockwell: I'll give him props, he definitely deserved to win tonight. Rough ones for Crash and Vargas. Hopefully they'll be able to recover.

Hood: And in the meantime, they still haven't gotten Houston out of here!

*The Incredible One has slid back into the ring, leaving security behind. He joins up with Dylan Thomas and Lissandra, the three celebrating together and raising up their arms. On the outside, Houston is still being held by security, as he hasn't given up getting another piece of TIO. The Incredible One looks completely pleased, as if everything went perfectly. The three in the ring once again raise their hands in celebration... and the lights go out!*

Hood: Aagh!

Rockwell: We just lost power!

Hood: What the hell is going on?

*Suddenly, after a few seconds, the lights come back up, with Dylan, Lissandra, and TIO all still standing in the ring. Dylan has moved protectively in front of Lissandra in the corner, looking towards where Houston is, while TIO is still in the center of the ring. But as the crowd suddenly cheers, The Incredible One slowly turns around... to find Mike Zybala standing in the ring!!*

Hood: I've just seen a ghost!!

Rockwell: It's Zybala, the owner of both Online Championship Wrestling and Outsiders!

*The Incredible One starts to step towards the smirking Zybala, but the lights go out again, and when they come back, Zybala is nowhere to be found. The Incredible One, confused, looks in either direction, trying to figure it out. But the distraction has worked wonders for Houston, who has broken free of security and leaps up onto the apron, springing off the ropes and flying in with a forearm hit, taking TIO down!! He punches away at TIO, as Dylan rushes in to help. Security swarms the ring, and once again everyone is getting separated.*

Hood: This is getting insane!

Rockwell: We may need more security down here!

Hood: What the hell was Zybala doing here, and how'd he disappear so quickly?

Rockwell: I don't have a clue, Hood, but it's clear that things are still out of control here!

*The fighting continues, with Lissandra getting jostled by security. She looks fine, but Dylan immediately goes to get her out of the ring and to safety, even as Ed Houston and The Incredible One are still brawling. Security is desperately trying to do their job, but these two want to fight too much to let them be stopped. More security and lower-class wrestlers come out of the back, led by Jonathan and Hunter Barrows, looking to get things under control.*

Jonathan Barrows: Break them up! Break them up now, goddammit!

*The fans are booing the break-up, and a chant of "Let Them Fight" rings out, even as the additional security hits the ring. We slowly fade out, leaving the chaos behind.*

OOC: Another one down, and after an insane week, I'm very happy how it came together. Thanks to everyone who sent in segments. I know it was a tough rp'ing week, partially due to rp window confusion. We'll work on getting that straightened out. I look forward to what we've got going in the future, with so much new talent coming in! Only two more Inferno's until the next PPV, so get your stuff going now!

GCWA Presents - Friday Night Inferno

LIVE! Friday, October 25th 2019

From the GCWA Arena, Dallas, TX

Opener

Adi Gold vs. Peter "The Janitor" Vaughn

Mid-Card

"Mad Dog" Mark Wright vs. Tony Savage

The A-List (Dylan Thomas & The Incredible One) vs. Wrath of the Storm (Thunder & Lightning)

Main Event

Duce Jones(c) - GCWA North American Title Open Challenge

Roleplaying will be from Friday, October 18th to Wednesday, October 23rd, giving you 6 days to post your roleplay. Remember, each must be in before 12:00am CST to count.

Good luck to all!