Friday Night Inferno

GCWA Friday Night Inferno

*We're reaching the end of October 2019. That makes two months now for the Global Championship Wrestling Association since its return. Not bad, not bad. The haters who thought it would last a couple of weeks have to be upset at this point. It's sure become a Friday night tradition, depending, again, on when you check the show out. You settle in to your favorite chair, as it's time, once again, to switch on the feed.*

*The Inferno label appears for a second, before fading away. The silky smooth voice from last week is back once again.*

Voice: The reign of the Barrows continues. The New Era grows stronger and stronger.

*We cut to clips of The Big Bifford getting trapped in a locker room last week, with the shocking reveal of Eric Dane as the new #1 contender for the GCWA World Heavyweight Champion. We see him smiling in the ring, with Jonathan Barrows standing behind him, while The Big Bifford works to break out of the trap.*

Voice: The odds are beginning to look stacked against the old guard of the GCWA, the ones who returned to support their former boss, The Accelerator.

*Video switches to Dylan Thomas & The Incredible One continuing their alliance, attacking Ed Houston during his match with Peter "The Janitor" Vaughn. Footage rolls of Dylan hitting the Perfect Finisher on The Janitor, taking him out. We cut from this to the main event, where Dylan Thomas once again is victorious, this time winning the #1 Contendership to take on another veteran of the GCWA, Crazy Chris, for the GCWA Unified X Division Title.*

Voice: As the journey towards Las Vegas continues, the time is growing short. Whose version of the future will emerge victorious? It's harder and harder to tell the past, as more and more newcomers enter the fray.*

*Shots roll of many of the newest members of the company. Adi & Fisher Goldblum. "Mad Dog" Mark Wright. Tony Savage. Lusus. And in the final clip, we see the surprising entrance of Mike Zybala, appearing ever so briefly in front of The Incredible One. The video cuts away to darkness.*

Voice: Who will falter and fade away... and who will ignite the world?

*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 Crazy Man's Suicide. 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 cheers are still loud here in the arena, although the mood seems slightly more somber. We focus on the two announcers, who are standing near their usual spots.*

Rockwell: Welcome back to Fright Night Inferno! It's been a crazy, crazy week here in Dallas.

Hood: Sunday night, an F-3 tornado hit here in our home city. It was legitimately unsettling to see the amount of damage on the way here.

Rockwell: Yes, our prayers continue to go out to everyone affected. The GCWA has pledged to help, donating time and money to help aid in the recovery for north Dallas.

Hood: I'm so glad I decided to fly back home Saturday.

Rockwell: I was actually here in the city, but luckily, my condo was outside the damage zone. Took some hail, but that was about it.

Hood: Wait... you have a condo?

Rockwell: I'm a former champion, Hood, who wrestled for many years.

Hood: Yeah, but you were never at the top, were you? How do you have that kind of dough?

Rockwell: I invested well. Thanks to Ace.

Hood: I feel vaguely insulted. He never helped me out!

Rockwell: We're getting off-topic. Thousands have had their lives turned upside down...

Hood: No, now wait, what tips did Ace give you?

Rockwell: He just passed along a few thoughts here and there. Mentioned Bitcoin. Stuff like that.

Hood: ... How rich are you??

Rockwell: It's not important. Again, our hearts go out for everyone who's had a rough time this week. But the show must go on, and we're here to perform for you once again!

Hood: ... I'm calling my agent.

*Well then, the crowd is sufficiently hyped, Hood and Rockwell are primed and ready to call the action, and the fans at home are tuned squarely to their television screens for the night's festivities.*

*And what better way can there be to kick things off than with GCWA's most expensive signing to date and the newly minted #1 Contender to the World Title "The Only Star" Eric Dane!*

*Pyro pops, "The One You Love to Hate" fires up and starts pounding through the futuristic hi-fidelity sound system in the arena in Dallas, and the boo-birds come on strong.*

Crowd: BOOOOOOOOOO!!!

Rockwell: The GCWA fans have surely picked a side against Eric Dane!

Hood: The unwashed masses wouldn't know any better if somebody gave them the spoilers to motherfriggin' LIFE!

*Dane saunters leisurely, as his way, down to the ringside area. Properly suited and booted his sheer presence elicits a re-dedication of the boos from those fans in attendance. He stops and argues with, laughs at, or makes fun of almost every single person all the way down the aisle to the ring and doesn't stop once he makes ringside. Several moments pass before he finally makes his way up the ring steps, wipes the soles of his boots, and steps through the ropes.*

Rockwell: He promised to give a Ted Talk tonight, Hood, whaddya think about that?

Hood: I think you'd might better take notes, bud. If I know Dane this entire schtick is gonna be on the test!

Rockwell: I can't even...

*The Only Star is handed a microphone by a ringside attendant. He eventually finds his way to the center of the ring with the raised mic in one hand and a yellow legal pad in the other. You didn't notice it before because you were too busy admiring the cut of his blue and silver-striped suit.*

*His music fades at just the right time.*

Dane: Ladies and Gentlemen, colleagues and friends...

*Eric chuckles.*

Dane: Okay, but seriously, I'm not the kind of guy who has friends that are wrestling fans...

*MOAR BOOS~*

Dane: HOWEVER! Tonight, just this once, for your viewing and listening pleasure...

*He hams it up, get it? Hams it up? No?*

Dane: I give you: "Four-hundred and eleven reasons why The Big Bifford is an UNFIT Champion!"

*The booing is reaching nuclear levels, Dane only talks over them through sheer power of will and force of personality. He never misses a beat.*

Dane: *ahem* Number one, Bifford is very obviously fat!

*He pauses, soaking in the reaction.*

Dane: Number two, So fat, in fact, that I was going to print a nice poster of the big goof but the lady at the UPS Store told it wouldn't be done printing in time to make the show!

*Rimshot!*

*Not really, what you really here is more booing.*

Dane: Number three, When Biff stepped on the scale to weigh in for his last match, the scale actually said: "To be continued..."

*Garbage starts flying in and around the ringside area.*

Dane: Number four, he bent over to pick up his bags at the airport and they arrested him for smuggling ten pounds of crack!

*He flips a page.*

Dane: Oh, I've got more! Four-hundred and seven more, to be exact! NUMBA FIVE! There's never been an actual plague of locusts, just what was leftover after Bifford tried going vegetarian! HA!

*Nobody in the building is laughing.*

*Okay, a few are. Hood is one of them.*

Hood: HAHA! This is SUCH GREAT SHIT!

*Coolio is on tap, "Gangstas Paradise" to be exact.*

Crowd: RAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAHHH!!!

*On stage appears a bright red Rascal mobility scooter! The driver of such a contraption could only be Kenny, thirty-something-year-old hanger-on to none other than the Champion himself, The Big Bifford. Speaking of Biff, he can be found bringing up the rear, lounging on the extra-wide custom chariot-style makeshift rickshaw cart that Kenny's Rascal was struggling to pull.*

Rockwell: The Champ is... getting here. Slowly.

Hood: Ha!

Rockwell: Is the champ eating a chicken sandwich?

Hood: HA! YOU KNOW THAT HE IS!

*Kenny renders forth the GCWA World Champion about halfway down to the ring and stops, allowing the Champion a decent enough view of Eric Dane standing there with his list. The crowd is loud, Eric Dane gets louder.*

Dane: NUMBER. FUCKING. SIX. SOYLENT GREEN IS PEOPLE~!

*Bifford ignores the #1 Challenger in favor of his chickee-sammee. The crowd are eating this shit up, and Eric Dane is getting incredulous, stomping around the ring and kicking at the bottom ropes.*

Dane: NUMBER SEVEN AN AVERAGE BIG BIFFORD PROMO AND TWO PIGS FIGHTING OVER A MILK DUD ARE INDISTINGUISHABLE! HA!

*The lightbulb appears to go off above Bifford's head, as he tosses the remnants of the chicken sandwich over a shoulder and reaches into a secret compartment that produces a carton of Milk Duds. The Champ smirks and rewards himself with a tasty treat!*

Dane: Are you fucking serious right now?

*The Champ cheerily ignores Dane, enjoying himself to the fullest extent.*

Dane: Alright you fat-titted fuck, I can play that game too!

*Dane exits the ring with a flourish and before anybody can say otherwise he's stolen a hotdog with a bite taken out of it from a young child in the front row. The kid's dad has to be restrained when he immediately attempts to cross the rail. The Only Star is oblivious.*

Dane: Look! I got you a fuckin' hotdog! Come and get it you big tub of fuck!

*Finally Bifford relents and turns his eyes on The Only Star. The Champ matches the challenger's gaze before standing up and nodding.*

Rockwell: Dane's gonna get it now!

Hood: Ha! You wish!

*With a purpose, The Big Bifford marches himself up to the ring and pulls himself up to the apron where he then steps right into the ring. He meets Dane at center ring.*

Dane: And let me tell y-

*The Only Star doesn't get another word in as Bifford puts hands on him, immediately driving Dane down into a standing head-scissors. The crowd called for The Biff End as Dane struggled frantically, screaming like a teenaged cheerleader about to get- well, you know.*

Rockwell: DANE'S GONNA GO FOR A RIDE!

*He absolutely does not, using every last bit of dexterous know-how that he'd accumulated over a quarter-century of wrestling Eric Dane escapes from Bifford and rolls immediately outside of the ring, putting a referee between himself and the GCWA Champion.*

Hood: HE SLIPPED OUT! DANE'S TOO SMART!

*Eric backs his way up the ramp while Bifford holds the ropes open, begging for him to re-enter. Dane isn't having any little bit of that bullshit.*

Dane: I don't know who in the hell you think you are, Bifford! Eric Dane absolutely DOES NOT fight on FREE TV! And there ain't no way you're ever gonna get me with CONVOLUTED and DANGEROUS and OBVIOUSLY ILLEGAL hold of yours, either!

Rockwell: Is he talkin' about The Biff End?

Hood: Of COURSE he is!

*Dane turns and departs, to more boos from the crowd. Bifford just watches him go, unfazed. We go to our first commercial break.*

*We cut to backstage, where apparently Xtreme is on the warpath. He smashes a chair against the wall, narrowly missing a terrified employee. People are scrambling in every direction possible, as Xtreme continues to lash out at everyone.*

Xtreme: Where is he???

*A security guard rushes up, foolishly not waiting for back-up. He's soon on his back after a crushing chair hit that leaves him crumpled on the ground.*

Xtreme: WHERE IS HE???

*More security rushes up, surrounding Xtreme. He takes a few more swings, trying to drive them back, but the numbers are soon too much as the hardcore wrestler has his chair taken away from him. As security works to contain the madman, Hunter Barrows comes jogging up.*

Hunter Barrows: What the hell are you doing, old man? You're going to give yourself a heart attack!

*Xtreme yanks against security as if to go after Hunter, who takes a quick step back. But the grip of GCWA Security is pretty strong, as many of them are hoping for their chance in the ring one day.*

Xtreme: Have you seen him? Have you seen... Puffer?!?!

Hunter Barrows: You're still looking for him? I heard he got himself lost last week, and he might be lost again this week, I don't really know. You really want him that bad?

*Xtreme nods eagerly, while still trying to pull himself free and continue to go wild.*

Xtreme: He owes me... blood!

Hunter Barrows: Yours or his? Wait, I don't want to know... look, tell you what... next week, we'll book you guys in a match again. I'll send information to Puffer myself. Will that work to stop you from destroying our building any more?

*Xtreme quiets down for a second, thinking it over.*

Xtreme: He'd better be there...

*Xtreme relaxes against security, who don't take any chances. They lead Xtreme towards the back of the building, as Hunter leans against the wall. He turns to walk away, and almost steps on the downed security guard.*

Hunter Barrows: Oh, yeah... someone call a medic, would you? Let's take care of this guy.

*Hunter looks down at the unconscious guard, as we go back to ringside.*

Hood: So it will be Puffer vs. Xtreme II!

Rockwell: I'd hate to see what happens if Puffer doesn't show up again.

Hood: Can we have security surrounding our table for that match? Y'know, just in case?

Rockwell: Not a terrible idea...

Singles Match
Adi Gold (0-0) vs. Peter "The Janitor" Vaughn (6-16-1)

Minos: It is time... for our opening match... of the evening... introducing first, making her debut in the GCWA... standing 5'6" and weighing 120 lbs... from Windsor, Ontario... here is Adi Gold!!

*Generate by Eric Prydz hits over the PA System. Adi Gold comes out first as her giant brother Fisher Goldblum follows her. Together they head down towards the ring. Adi ignoring the crowd as much as possible while Fisher waves and touches a fans hand here and there. They do this until they get near the ring and Adi slides into the ring under the ropes and Fisher climbs into the ring over the top. They stand in the middle while Adi is holding her hands in the air smirking.*

Rockwell: It's great to see a female wrestler in the GCWA once again!

Hood: See how progressive the Barrows are making this company? Ace wouldn't have allowed this, you know.

Rockwell: What are you talking about? Ace always wanted more female wrestlers here.

Hood: And look how few wanted to sign up? I bet Ace had roaming hands...

Minos: Her opponent... standing 5'6" and weighing 175 lbs... wrestling in his hometown of Dallas, Texas... here is Peter "The Janitor" Vaughn!!

*The fans start cheering, always loving the underdog, as "Eye of the Tiger" by Survivor begins to play. 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.*

Rockwell: The fans seem even more behind Vaughn this week, as he was seen out there trying to help clean up the damage done from the tornado.

Hood: Guy barely did anything out there. I mean, sure, he mopped some, but did that really help?

Rockwell: He did what he could, and we have to celebrate him for that, especially due to his recent troubles with substance abuse.

Hood: They... were... vitamins!!

*The Bell Rings.*

Rockwell: Time to get our first look at Adi Gold!

Hood: Ummm... and her brother, Fisher... who's looking at us...

Rockwell: Oh... hi, Fisher. How's it... going...

*Fisher stands in front of the announce table, waving to both men. Hood looks ready to run. Adi shouts something from the ring, and Fisher obediently turns and walks over to stand behind her corner. Vaughn is looking nervously out at the very large man standing out there. He moves towards the center of the ring, circling around with Adi. The two lock up, with Vaughn able to slowly push Adi back into the corner. Fisher, seeing this, gets up on the apron, causing Vaughn to quickly break the lock and retreat, raising his hands. The referee talks with Fisher for a second, who reluctantly steps back down. Adi turns and says something to him, apparently telling him to wait until after the match.*

Rockwell: Having Fisher in her corner appears to be a big advantage for Adi.

Hood: That's probably not the way she sees it. But from what I hear, Fisher's been really good at taking out abusive boyfriends.

Rockwell: Nothing wrong with that. Assholes like that deserve to get put into the hospital.

Hood: No arguments here.

*Vaughn and Adi go to lock up again, with Vaughn again glancing over at Fisher. But this allows Adi to strike, running up and hitting a spinning heel kick that knocks Vaughn backwards! He hits the ropes, stunned, then staggers forward, only for Adi to quickly leap up and snap him back to the canvas with a Fame Asser!! Vaughn's down, as Adi grabs for the leg, taking an extra second to secure it into place... 1... 2... and Vaughn is able to kick out. Adi, annoyed that she didn't make the pin quicker, jumps up and grabs at Vaughn's legs before he can get away, bending him around into a Boston crab submission hold! Vaughn's feeling the pain, but refuses to tap out, trying to hang on to his recently-gained confidence. The referee stays close, just in case.*

Rockwell: For a relative novice in the ring, Adi's showing her skills out there.

Hood: People usually look better against the Janitor.

Rockwell: Can we still make those jokes, considering Vaughn has a win over TIO?

Hood: We're not talking about that anymore, Adrian.

Rockwell: About what? About TIO getting pinned by...

Hood: FAKE NEWS!!

*With the hometown fans behind him, the Janitor starts pulling himself along, dragging both wrestlers towards the ropes. Fisher's there, watching, but Vaughn can't spare any time on him, as he's in a lot of pain. He finally manages to reach out, grabbing at the ropes and hanging on as the referee calls for the break. Adi doesn't seem too thrilled, but eventually follows the rules and lets Vaughn go. Vaughn hangs onto the ropes for a few seconds, pulling himself together. He starts to get up... and then sees Fisher standing there outside the ring, still watching him. Vaughn, unnerved, struggles to pull himself up quickly. He shoves upwards, stumbling back... and Adi, behind him, takes an errant elbow to the head, knocking her backwards! Vaughn, turning, looks a little shocked. He leans over Adi, trying to figure out what to do, but then gets distracted as Fisher is back on the apron and starting to come in!*

Rockwell: Fisher's losing it!

Hood: He's going to get his sister disqualified!

Rockwell: He can't help himself. He wants to protect her.

Hood: Then buy her a stun gun and teach her to aim for the testicles!

*The referee is anxiously trying to get Fisher to leave the ring, threatening the disqualification. It's hard to tell if Fisher understands or not, as he keeps gesturing towards Vaughn, who has turned and his apologizing to the big man. Behind Vaughn, though, Adi is standing again, looking furious. She attacks Vaughn from behind with a series of shots, letting loose with skills she's gained in her MMA background. Vaughn, dazed, is easy pickings as Adi takes him to the side and springs off the ropes, landing a springboard bulldog! Vaughn is down, even as the referee finally gets Fisher to leave, now that he sees his sister is alright. Adi looks pissed, though, as she lands a few more kicks and knee shots to the downed Janitor.*

Hood: Adi's letting out a lot of frustration out there.

Rockwell: She's showing that she doesn't need her brother to fight her battles.

Hood: Need, no. But when he's that big, you might as well have him fight them for you anyway.

*Adi has continued the abuse, as Fisher anxiously keeps an eye on her from outside the ring. She brings Vaughn back up, who tries to throw a discus punch, only to have it sail wide. Adi then locks onto Vaughn and plants him back down with a swinging neck breaker. The Janitor looks completely stunned, but Adi doesn't seem to want the pin yet. She reaches down, hauling her foe up and snapping a few words in his face. She then goes to the ropes and returns, leaping into the air to land the Gold Rush (Running Scissors Kick)!!! Vaughn collapses hard to the mat, not moving, as Adi stands over him. After a second, Adi kicks at Vaughn, getting him turned over, and makes the cover, this time locking it in firmly. The referee is right there... 1... 2... 3!!!!*

Minos: Here is your winner... Adi Gold!!

Rockwell: A dominating victory to start the career of Adi Gold!

Hood: So much for Vaughn becoming a contender.

Rockwell: With Adi's expertise in the ring and Fisher's strength, this is certainly a duo to watch out for.

*Adi gets her hand raised by the referee, looking pleased with the result. Fisher steps into the ring, asking if she's alright. Adi nods, then winces, acting like the hit she took was a little more severe than it was. Fisher angrily turns to where Vaughn is still laying, walking over to him. He reaches down, easily picking The Janitor off the canvas, then lifts him high in the air, before dropping him hard into the mat with a Choke Slam!! Vaughn doesn't look like he's going to be moving again anytime soon.*

Rockwell: A thunderous choke slam from Fisher Goldblum!

Hood: I don't know if Vaughn was conscious enough to understand what happened, but once he wakes up, he'll be feeling it.

Rockwell: A very bad night for the Janitor!

Hood: Get the man some happy pills!

*Fisher steps away from the unconscious Vaughn, as the referee moves in to check on him. Adi dips her head to the side, signalling it's time to go, and turns, walking out of the ring, with Fisher behind her. The fans still seem unsure what to think, although they aren't pleased with what happened to The Janitor. We cut away.*

*Sunny Jim walks into his and Mad Dogs locker room, saying as he comes through the door:*

Sunny Jim: Mark I've got some great news. Mark...Mark?

*Sunny is surprised to see Mark is not in the locker room, and is wondering where he could be as he has his match in just a little bit. Sunny puts his hands on his hips and looks confused. He steps into the restroom to see if Mad Dog is taking a dump, but he isn't there either. As Sunny stands in the middle of the room, the door swings open and Mad Dog comes in, dressed for his match but carrying a bag of ice.*

Sunny Jim: Oh my Gosh, Mark are you ok? Did you hurt yourself?

Mad Dog: Uh, yeah, why?

Sunny Jim: THE ICE!

Mad Dog: Huh? Oh, na, baby this is for the cooler.

*Mad Dog kicks the locker room door shut and walks past Sunny, to a red Coleman cooler that sits beside a folding chair. Mad Dog flips the cooler open and pours the ice in it.*

Sunny Jim: Mark, look.

*Mad Dog finishes pouring the ice in the cooler and turns around, cutting Sunny off.*

Mad Dog: I know Sunny, look I'm not cracking open a beer until after the match. The shine, well I might take a little snort before the match, get me all warmed up.

Sunny: Mark...

Mad Dog: I know Sunny, I know, you don't drink beer. So, I got you a bottle of wine, because I know you're fancy.

Sunny: Oh, really?

Mad Dog: Yeah baby.

*Mad Dog turns back to the cooler and pulls out Mason Jar of white lightning and the bottle of wine. Mad Dog turns around and hands the bottle to Sunny. Sunny accept the bottle, but looks disappointed and disgusted.*

Mad Dog: Boone's Farm, Fuzzy Navel, Baby.

Sunny Jim: Thanks Mark.

Mad Dog: Don't stress Sunny. When we win, we'll need to celebrate. If by chance I lose tonight, well then, we'll need to drown our sorrows. Either way we're prepared.

*Sunny looks at the bottle and then at Mad Dog and smiles.*

Sunny Jim: You're right Mark, we are prepared. I know that you are prepared for tonight and I know you are going to do your state and your family proud. So, tonight go out there and show Tony what a real savage is. Show him that a Mad Dog can't be put in a leash. Show the GCWA that you should be on High Rollers. Show them all Mark, show the world.

Mad Dog: Hell yeah baby... HELL YEAH!

*Mad Dog twists the list off of the Mason jar and takes a big swig. "BWWAAHHH!" Mad Dog shouts, while shaking his head as scene fades out.*

*We switch backstage where GCWA lead interviewer, Jones is standing in front of a black & orange Friday Night Inferno backdrop. With a microphone in hand, Jones gets his cue.*

Jones: Ladies and gentlemen, what a night of action that we've witnessed already. But in our main event we will see the first installation of the North American Championship Open Invitational as Duce Jones defends against the client of this man... Johnathon Jacob Morrison!

*Johnathon Jacob Morrison appears to the right of Jones.*

Jones: Tonight, your client, Lusus will be the first challenger to answer Duce's open challenge. What are your thoughts?

Morrison: We are all acquainted with demons, aren't we?

*Johnathon Jacob Morrison responded to GCWA's lead interviewer with a question of his own. Morrison leered directly at Jones, waiting for his response.*

Jones: Demons? Ye- why.. Yes, I guess you could say we are.

Morrison: Sometimes the Devil is more subtle than the demons, in person. He is the one that will clutch at us, strangle us, force us to obey him. They control us with great delight and manipulation, and him- finally he owns us.

*Johnathon Jacob Morrison continued on another of his long winded nonsensical tirades. For Jones, the situation had only grown more uncomfortable as the seconds ticked by. He'd dreaded this assignment when given to him during the production meeting earlier in the day.

Jones: Yes, but tonight.. The GCWA North American Championship open challenge by Duce Jones.

Morrison: In this world exists fear, death, chaos, evil and 'The Merchant of Mayhem.' The things we cannot escape. The silence in chaos will calm you. It shall be deafening. The repentance of man shall surely lie on the knees of the gods.

Jones: Mr. Morrison, I understand what you're saying but if you will.. What are your thoughts on the upcoming match?

????: Don't worry Jones, he can keep dancin' around tha answer..

*Both Morrison and Jones look to their left as Duce Jones steps into the picture. Johnathon Jacob Morrison looked nervous standing in front of the self proclaimed, Kid that Never Dies, 2nd Generation Superstar and GCWA North American Champion Duce Jones. Morrison's entire body language changed, his voice began to quiver with each syllable as he spoke more feverishly.*

Morrison: You, Duc- I am the demon sent only to deliver the message. It is futile to pray to the gods, the words of the truth are simple. Remember, in the beginning there was Chaos. The 'Devil of Destruction', 'The Behemoth Brute' IS comi-

*Johnathon Jacob Morrison tried to finish his message of divine prophecy, just as Duce Jones had finally heard enough.*

Duce Jones: Demons, huh? So what is it dat ya tryna say, that you're some kinda illness or somethin'?

Morrison: Ex-Excuse me?

Duce Jones: I mean dat was what Jesus was referrin' to when he was goin' around healin' 'demons', correct?

*Johnathon Jacob Morrison is taken aback by Duce's line of questioning. The GCWA North American Champion only smiles before responding. The tyrannical spiritual advisor, mouth-piece and devoted follower of 'The Vendor of Violence' scurried off in fear leaving Duce Jones to captivate another GCWA sold-out crowd.*

Duce Jones: See nowadays everybody wants ta be a soulja in Lucy's army.. Usin' his name as a standard bearer fo' their short comings.. Like tha mere mention of his name sposed ta strike fear in tha common man's heart..

*Duce looks down at his North American title which rests on his shoulder.*

Duce Jones: Y'see Mista' Morrison, we all got demons.. I mean if we're bein' technical about it, right? An' considerin' how technically demon is tha same as bein' ill, dat would kinda make dis hell right?

*Jones doesn't have a response but Duce politely smiles at him.*

Duce Jones: But dat's a conversation fo' a different day.. Tonight, it's all about dat..

*Duce does air quotes.*

Duce Jones: 'Behemoth Brute' dat you've brought ta answer my open challenge.. Tonight, there ain't gonna be no where ta run once dat bell rangs.. No escape fo' tha 'Venda of Violence' once I put these knees in his life.. See we all got our connections ta tha 'Devil' an' we all got our demons but unlike everybody else.... I'm cool wit embracin' mines.. how about you Lus?

*Duce goes to leave but takes a moment to look over at Jones.*

Duce Jones: Y'kno', I would ask if we're related but I'm pretty sho I got a clue of how dis conversation is gonna go.. Eitha' way, ya welcome.. fam..

*Duce leaves a confused Jones still standing there as we cut back to ringside.*

Rockwell: Duce Jones showing no fear of the Behemoth Brute, Lusus!

Hood: Yeah, he can talk big in front of the guy's mouthpiece, but when Lusus is in the ring, I bet it will be a different tune.

Rockwell: Duce has never shown any intention of backing down to anyone, Hood. Let's go to the ring!

Singles Match
"Mad Dog" Mark Wright (0-0) vs. Tony Savage (0-0)

Minos: The next match... is scheduled for one fall... coming towards the ring... standing 6'2" and weighing 238 lbs... from the hills of West Virginia... making his debut in the GCWA... here is "Mad Dog" Mark Wright!!

"AAAAAARRRRRRRGGGGG! ROOF! ROOF! ROOF!"

*The sound of banjo picking begins to play over the PA.*

Woke up early this morning
As I looked around my world be crumblin' down
What I saw, I couldn't believe, Who are you?
What might I be? Oh, the things you do

*"Mad Dog" Mark Wright comes barreling through the entrance way. He stops at the top of the entrance way, tapping the Mason Jar he has with him and doing a toast to the crowd. Mad Dog then pulls his jacket off throwing it down and runs down the entrance way and slides under the bottom rope into the ring.*

Rockwell: Mad Dog is one of our more unusual signees as of late.

Hood: I can't blame the guy for wanting to leave the mines and become a wrestler. But you think he'll be able to cut it in the GCWA?

Rockwell: He seems to think so, and has the voice of Sunny Jim behind him, which could be a deciding factor in some of his matches.

Minos: His opponent... standing 6'4" and weighing 231 lbs... from Atlanta, Georgia... also making his debut for the GCWA... here is Tony Savage!!

*The lights dim low. He has no need for pyrotechnics, all the flashes from smart phones and camera illuminate his way down the ramp. The intense drum beat of 'Way Of The Fist' pounds over the arena's sound system, and the man marches down to the ring, dressed in black military pants and boots. His shirtless chest bears tattoos and scars, including bullet and bomb wounds, across his core like a mural. Security makes sure, due to his other job as soldier of fortune, he's not packing any outside weaponry. Once they clear him, he jumps onto the apron and climbs into the ring. He climbs the turnbuckle, his mouth twisted in a wolfish, blood-thirsty grin, as he stands with arms crossed, waiting for action.*

Rockwell: Tony Savage is a former U.S. Army Ranger, which gives him a unique skill set in the wrestling business.

Hood: In other words, he can probably kill someone with a pencil.

Rockwell: I think that was more a "John Wick" skill.

Hood: What, you don't think Tony could pull it off? Guy's a merc!

Rockwell: Well, let's hope there are no pencils in Mad Dog's future. We don't need our company shut down due to a wrestler's death.

Hood: Eh, it used to happen all the time in OCW, and we never got shut down.

*The Bell Rings.*

Rockwell: Two newcomers look to get on the contender lists after tonight!

Hood: My money's on the ranger to beat the coal miner.

Rockwell: Maybe that's the way it looks on paper, but don't rule out the skill set of a man known as Mad Dog!

*Mad Dog takes a drink from the Mason Jar, then sets it down in the corner. He turns and faces Tony Savage, giving him a nod of respect. Tony doesn't seem to return it, as he's ready to fight. The two men come forward, with Mad Dog challenging Tony to swing at him. Tony shrugs, then swings, landing a nice right cross. Mad Dog shakes it off, smiles, and then comes back with one of his own, and soon the two men are throwing rapid-fire punches at each other, as the crowd sits up and takes notice. Tony starts to take over, blocking a few shots with his hand-to-hand skills and driving Mad Dog back towards the corner. He gets Mad Dog against the turnbuckle, with the referee ordering the break. Tony raises his hands and steps back, moving backwards with his defenses up as Mad Dog rubs his jaw, not looking that upset.*

Hood: That's a trained killer right there! Mad Dog better watch himself!

Rockwell: Impressive start for Tony Savage, who clearly has the talent to brawl with anyone.

Hood: Tell the ref not to get too close to Savage's back, he might react instinctively and kill the bastard...

*Mad Dog is back out of the corner now, circling around with Savage. He comes in, managing to get the lock-up, and twists it into a headlock. Savage fights against it, but Mad Dog adds in a noogie, likely not something he learned in a wrestling school. Angrily, Savage shoves Mad Dog off, sending him to the ropes. As Mad Dog returns, Tony tries a leaping punch, but Mad Dog ducks under it, hitting the ropes and rebounding into Savage with a spear! The move hits hard, as Savage crashed onto his back to the mat. Both men get up, but Mad Dog then throws in an exploder suplex, before making the first cover of the match... 1... and Savage kicks out quickly, not wanting to stay down for long.*

Rockwell: "Mad Dog" Mark Wright showing that he's got some skills in the ring!

Hood: Where'd he learn that suplex? In the mines?

Rockwell: Maybe from Sunny Jim? Or maybe there's an underground fighting competition we don't know about.

Hood: Underground, huh? Funny...

*Mad Dog stays on the attack, landing some forearm shots on Savage to knock him down. Mad Dog then goes partially up the turnbuckle, looking for a middle rope elbow drop. But Savage is back up, meeting him in the corner and catching Mad Dog with an uppercut. Mad Dog, dazed, sags forward, and Savage catches him, then spins, landing a massive spinebuster! He makes the cover, with the ref sliding in... 1... 2... and Mad Dog shoots his shoulder up to stay alive. Tony gets up with him, gauging Mad Dog's reach, then lands a nice kick to the gut, followed by a double arm DDT to put Mad Dog back into the mat face-first! Savage rolls him over and tries again to hold the man down... 1... 2... but Mad Dog refuses, kicking out.*

Hood: If this stays as just a straight wrestling match, I don't like Mad Dog's chances.

Rockwell: You would think that Tony Savage has the advantage in technical knowledge.

Hood: Plus there's no bar stool for Mad Dog to hit him with.

Rockwell: Honestly, I wouldn't be shocked if there's one of those under the ring right now.

Hood: I know, right? You can find anything under there!

*Tony Savage grabs hold of Mad Dog's arm, apparently trying to twist him into a submission hold. But Mad Dog fights it off, locking his hands together, saving himself for the moment. Savage, annoyed, kicks at the hands, then lets go, turning around. He pulls Mad Dog up, as if to set him for a suplex. But Mad Dog raises a knee to block it, then reverses, getting his own suplex to land! Mad Dog pops up afterwards, showing his stamina, and as Savage tries to sit up, Mad Dog charges in with a mafia kick that lands perfectly! With Savage down, Mad Dog drops an elbow and goes for the pin, holding onto the legs... 1... 2... and Savage kicks himself free. Mad Dog looks at the referee for a moment, shaking his head, before pulling himself up.*

Rockwell: We're really getting a good back and forth match here tonight!

Hood: Yeah, these guys don't look like scrubs. Jonathan's doing a great job on hiring, isn't he?

Rockwell: Keep kissing up, Hood, maybe he'll notice you one of these days.

Hood: You're just jealous...

*As Mad Dog gets himself up, Savage manages to roll himself to the apron, then drops to the floor, landing on his feet. He looks a little dazed, as Mad Dog sizes him up from inside. He uses the ropes for momentum and runs forward, going for a suicide dive! The name is apt, though, as Tony Savage sees him coming and dodges to the side, leaving Mad Dog to crash down to the outside mats, missing his target! Mad Dog arches his back on the outside mat, feeling a great deal of pain from the landing. Savage slowly comes over to him, stepping over the downed wrestler. He reaches down, hauling Mad Dog up, and whips him hard into the apron, doing more damage to his back. As the referee counts in the ring, Savage moves to get Mad Dog under the ropes, then follows him in, very intent on taking advantage of the situation.*

Rockwell: That suicide dive may have been the deciding factor in this one.

Hood: I've never understood moves like that. Why not just kick the guy in the head until he's unconscious, then pin him? Sounds easy to me.

Rockwell: You've seen enough wrestling that you know it's never that easy.

Hood: It would be if I wore my steel-tipped boots.

*Mad Dog tries to get himself up, but Savage is already behind him, kneeling onto his back. He hooks the head with one arm and the legs with the other, bending Mad Dog back and into the air with a bow & arrow submission hold! Mad Dog's arms flail as he tries to find a way out, even as the referee hovers around him, seeing if it's going to be over. Savage keeps the hold locked on, but Mad Dog shows no signs of submitting, shouting "No!" when the referee asked him. The hold isn't easy to maintain, so eventually Savage drops Mad Dog to the side, releasing the submission. He gets up, pulling Mad Dog up with him, then locks him into position, snapping Mad Dog up and landing a high-angle tiger suplex!! Mad Dog's legs flop uselessly on the mat, even as Savage rolls into the cover... 1... 2... but no, Mad Dog keeps fighting, kicking free.*

Hood: Wright needs to be careful, Savage might murder him soon.

Rockwell: I don't think we'll reach that point, Hood.

Hood: The man's looking to complete his mission, Adrian! He'll do anything to achieve it!

Rockwell: Let me remind you again, Hood, that this isn't an '80s action movie.

*Tony Savage is on his feet again, looking down at Mad Dog, who's struggling to rise. He waits for Mad Dog to expend more energy getting up, then moves in, giving him a knee to the gut to stun him. Savage then looks to end this, whipping Mad Dog towards the ropes, then hitting the other side. Savage charges forward, going for the running heart punch known as One Shot, One Kill!! But Mad Dog does a slide on his knees, and Savage's punch goes just barely over Mad Dog's head! Savage, off-balance, turns back around as Mad Dog jumps up and spins backwards... hitting the Mountaineer Lariat!! Savage is down, as the crowd pops for the move. Mad Dog, exhausted, starts crawling for the corner, eventually working himself back to his feet in order to let him make the climb.*

Rockwell: Mad Dog could end it here!

Hood: That lariat nearly took Savage's head off!

*It takes Mad Dog a few extra seconds, but he finally makes it to the top of the turnbuckle. He sets himself, ready to leap into the Go Mad flying headbutt! But Savage, showing extraordinary reserves, is back on his feet and coming over to the 'buckle! He climbs up, with Mad Dog meeting him with a couple of punches, knocking him back. Mad Dog goes to leap onto him, but Savage comes back, hitting Mad Dog's leg out from under him and straddling him on the top! With Mad Dog stuck, Savage locks onto him and lifts him out of the corner, coming off with a Muscle Buster!! Mad Dog is down, but he's bounced away from Savage, who is still on his back as well, breathing heavily. The cheers from the crowd get louder, as they are loving the pace of this contest.*

Hood: Somebody get up! I don't want a double countout!

Rockwell: Who saw this one having so much action?

Hood: Jonathan Barrows saw it, that's who!

*Slowly, the two wrestlers pull themselves up, turning to face each other. Mad Dog throws the first punch, with Tony Savage responding in kind. The two slug each other on the mat, with Savage knocking a few shots away to take control. He grabs hold of Mad Dog, trying to lock on the Choke Artist (Peruvian Necktie) submission! But Mad Dog fights free, struggling backwards. Savage, pushing himself up, tries to grab Mad Dog again, but Mad Dog gets a couple of shots to the ribs, bending Savage over. Mad Dog then grabs Savage by the head, trying for the Wright Way!!! No, Savage shoves Mad Dog off of him into the ropes. Mad Dog comes back, trying for the Mountaineer Lariat again! Savage ducks under it, though, then spins and catches a returning Mad Dog with the One Shot, One Kill!!! Mad Dog collapses to the mat, with Savage falling on top of him, spent. The ref is right there... 1... 2... 3!!!!*

Minos: Here is your winner... Tony Savage!!

Rockwell: What a contest between two guys making a name for themselves!

Hood: I predicted it right! Way to go, soldier!

Rockwell: But it really could have gone either way. I see both men being in the running for some championships very soon here in the GCWA.

Hood: Great signings, Mr. Barrows!

Rockwell: Enough, Hood. He's heard you.

*Savage gets his arm raised by the referee and turns, leaving the ring. Mad Dog has sat up, rubbing his chest and looking over at Savage's departure.*

*The camera cuts backstage to where Dylan and Lissandra Thomas are standing in the interview area. Dylan smirks at the camera whilst wearing shades. Lissandra meanwhile is holding a microphone whilst doing some smirking of her own.*

Dylan: Lissie... interview me babe. You're the only one I trust to do a good job of it. After all, an A-List just has to interview an A-List, right?

*Lissandra kisses Dylan on the cheek while keeping a hand on Dylan's shoulder.*

Lissandra: Right, baby. So... are you looking forward to tonight? When you and The Incredible One officially cement your claim to greatness here in the GCWA whilst at the same time taking out the trash that is Thunder and Lightning?

Dylan: Lissie, babe... I can't wait. I can't wait to bring Thunder up onto my shoulders and bring him down for the Perfect Finisher and destroy his stomach - just like Peter Vaughn - or I may give him brain damage by following that up with a swift punt to the skull with the Mind Your Head, Bitch.

Lissandra: And Lightning?

Dylan: Lightning? Lightning I'm going to 'shock' into submission by making the idiot tap out to the Hollywood Cloverleaf. Either way boys... you two don't stand a chance tonight. You guys might even say that You're Incredibly Fucked!

*Lissandra whispers into Dylan's ear.*

Dylan: Oh, baby I know TIO doesn't call his piledriver that any more but that was such a badass name. Lissie? Shall we get ready?

*Lissandra nods before giving her microphone to a stage hand and the Thomas's begin to walk away.*

Hood: Wow! Lissandra is AWESOME as an interviewer! Can we get her as one permanently?

Rockwell: I say she's too biased to be an interviewer, Hood.

Hood: So, what? She can't support her husband or TIO?

Rockwell: That interview was just a complete mockery - wait Dylan is coming back!

Hood: Yes!

*Dylan Thomas returns into shot and has now removed his shades - keeping them on his shirt. He looks seriously into the camera.*

Hood: Some shit is about to go down! Look at that face!

Rockwell: I see it.

Dylan: Oh... and Crazy Chris... Congratulations on keeping your X-Division title for so long but at High Rollers I'm going to relieve you of your title. As you might be aware - we'll see how long you've been paying attention for, I know you're not too bright - I won a number one contender's match last week for your title. Crazy Chris... decide what kind of match we're gonna have at High Rollers because I know I can beat you - and I will beat you because Dylan Thomas is Perfection Personified, dude and you...? Well... you're a relic of an old man. WHEN I remove the X-Division title, the Barrows Brothers are going to have no use for the Danger Boiz are they? The new blood is going to continue reigning supreme after High Rollers.

*Dylan walks away, as we fade to commercial.*

Tony: Well, goddamn, that felt GREAAAAT!

*Tony Savage is backstage, hanging around the vending machines. After a hard fought victory against Mad Dog, Tony is cranked up, super hype. He laughs ecstatically and punches a Pepsi machine. 5 Mountain Dew pop out of the dispenser, and a facilities worker just frowns at him, shaking his head.*

Tony: That soda machine was already broken before I punched it.

*He throws a Mountain Dew into the guys hands. Still frowning, he pops the tab and walks off, drinking it. Tony looks at him like he's ungrateful son of a bitch.*

Tony: Yeah, you're welcome bud! Geez, inconsiderate ass...

*He doesn't look at the camera, he just converses, adrenaline still coursing through his veins for the fight.*

Tony: Goddamn, that felt good. After all the shit I've gone through in my life the last year, it feels like heaven knowing I can still get into that ring and do what I do. The Mutt tried his best, put up a good fight, but...

What's a dog to a man, huh? Still...

*He's breathing heavy, drinking from a bottled water.*

Tony: Still a lot I could do better. Obviously still a bit of rust on the chassis, but that can be fixed. This is just the beginning. As good as I used to be, still am, I know I can't just sit on my laurels and think what I did out there will keep doing the job. I'm trying to get that 5th World title on the wall.

Good start, but I need to keep growing in the ring...

*He smiles that smile that moves merch and advertising packages. Straight runway quality.*

Tony: Good thing I'm a supporter of evolution. Stick 'round and watch your boy.

I'll make a believer out of you, too.

*The camera cuts away from Tony's smiling face, taking us back to ringside.*

Rockwell: A hell of a debut for Tony Savage.

Hood: I hope he knows Jonathan Barrows is going to bill him for those sodas.

Rockwell: Right now, I doubt he cares, Hood. It's a big deal to get a victory in the GCWA.

Hood: Hey, and some of my favorites are about to get themselves a win, too! Take it away, Minos!

Tag-Team Match
The A-List (Dylan Thomas & The Incredible One) (0-0) vs. Wrath of the Storm (0-1)

Minos: Our next contest... is scheduled for one fall... introducing first... weighing a combined 420 lbs... they are the team of Thunder and Lightning... Wrath of the Storm!!

*"Riding The Storm Out" by REO Speedwagon begins to play. Thunder & Lightning appear in the entryway, with Thunder letting out a loud yell, while Lightning stands next to him. He doesn't look too enthused, but Thunder smacks him hard on the chest to wake him up. Thunder strikes one of his poses, but Lightning doesn't join him. They head to the ring.*

Rockwell: It was looking like The Wrath of the Storm were finished earlier this week, as Lightning was feeling guilt of being weather-based due to the tornado that hit Dallas. I guess Thunder was able to convince him to come here tonight.

Hood: Too bad. They could have always gone with a better alternative.

Rockwell: I'm afraid to ask...

Hood: I didn't say I had one, I'm just sure that anything else would be better.

Rockwell: Like, say, the Awesome Weathermen?

Hood: I stand corrected.

Minos: Their opponents... weighing a combined 440 lbs... making their first appearance as a tag-team... here are Dylan Thomas and The Incredible One... The A-List!!

*"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 arena is already filling up with boos. The two kiss on the stage, even as the music shifts to "Cold Wind Blows" by Eminem. The intro ends and the words INCREDIBLE burst onto the large screen, causing the boos to get heavier. The Incredible One walks out to the beat, wearing a smirk that stretches from ear-to-ear. He nods to Dylan & Lissandra, and the three start down the aisle for the ring.*

Hood: These guys are going to dominate the GCWA!

Rockwell: I will say that the team of Dylan Thomas and The Incredible One looks extremely strong. But I don't see men like Ed Houston backing down.

Hood: If Houston was smart, he'd take a powder and skip the match at High Rollers. Crazy Chris should just hand over the X Division Title, too.

Rockwell: A champion would never do that.

Hood: But an intelligent person would.

*The Bell Rings.*

Rockwell: Time to see the A-List in action!

Hood: As well as Wrath of the... nah, I can't even say it. This is going to be a slaughter.

*As Dylan Thomas steps in to start things off, Thunder pats his partner on the shoulder, trying to give him some more confidence. Lightning just shakes his head, staying in the corner. Thunder heads over, glaring at Dylan, then stops in front of him. He takes a deep breath, realizing the Thunder Roar!! But Dylan, unfazed, immediately shoots a hand out, hitting Thunder in the throat!! Thunder, gagging, grabs at his injured windpipe, leaving himself exposed, as Dylan goes to the eyes with a rake, blinding him! Thunder gasps, putting both hands up on his face, trying to recover, but as Thunder steps away, Dylan gets behind him, clapping his hands around Thunder's ears! Thunder drops to the ground, most of his senses gone, as Dylan laughs behind him, kicking him down.*

Rockwell: He's trying to make Thunder deaf and dumb!

Hood: Well, Thunder was already about halfway there, so...

*Thunder reaches out blindly, trying to make the tag. Unfortunately, he's facing the wrong direction, as Lightning can't get his attention behind him. Dylan is looking over at The Incredible One, still laughing. He goes off the ropes and comes back, hitting a running kick to Thunder's exposed head, taking him down. Thomas then reaches down, lifting up Thunder's legs and setting him in place. He pushes off the legs, flipping over and landing the senton leg drop!! Dylan then makes the cover, holding onto the leg, as the ref slides in... 1... 2... but Thunder weakly gets a shoulder up, keeping the match going. Dylan actually nods slightly, as he didn't expect Thunder to actually kick out of anything. He drags Thunder backwards with him, over to tag in The Incredible One.*

Hood: Things are about to get Incredible!

Rockwell: TIO's looking to get his first victory tonight in the GCWA.

Hood: And on his first try!

Rockwell: Hood...

Hood: Don't push me, Adrian!

*The Incredible One seems to think this is a great time for a showcase, pointing down at Thunder. He hauls the wrestler up, locking him in place and getting a release Belly-To-Belly suplex! Thunder hits hard, almost falling out of the ring. TIO hauls him off the apron, dragging him up, and locks him up again, this time getting a Northern Lights suplex! He pops right back up, dusting himself off as if to show he's not even sweating. Lightning is desperately calling to Thunder, wanting him to tag, but Thunder has no clue where he is. TIO walks over, pulling Thunder up once more, and this time locks the man into an abdominal stretch! Thunder is screaming in pain, causing Lightning to start coming in, but the ref quickly directs him back to his corner. As Lightning argues, TIO reaches out behind him, with Dylan grabbing his hand to add additional leverage to the move.*

Rockwell: Now, come on! That's blatant cheating!

Hood: That's smart wrestling!

Rockwell: Do they really need to do things like that against this team?

Hood: Why not? Might as well get in the practice...

*Lightning reaches over and spins the referee around, directing his view towards the corner, where Dylan quickly drops his leverage. But the ref, even though he's annoyed at Lightning for putting his hands on him, saw it, and comes over, ordering TIO to break the hold. The Incredible One tries to deny it, then releases the hold to avoid any chance at a DQ. He talks to the referee some more, laughing over at Dylan, who is looking as innocent as possible. TIO finally gets back over to Thunder, reaching down and picking him up... and Thunder's head comes up fast, catching TIO under the chin!! Both men go down in opposite directions, as Lissandra's shown in shock on the outside. The next view is of Lightning, who is furiously stomping his feet, reaching out for a tag.*

Hood: There's no way Thunder did that on purpose!

Rockwell: Fluke or not, it's given his team a chance, and Lightning wants to cash in!

Hood: Is he still calling himself Lightning, or is he just Gene tonight?

*The crowd is giving a cheer, if only to root against the bad guys, as Thunder slowly crawls towards his corner. The Incredible One manages to get back to his corner, tagging in Dylan Thomas, who hurries through the ropes. But it's too late, as Thunder lunges forward and tags Lightning, bringing the fresh man in! Thomas rushes him, but Lightning ducks under the strike and charges forward, clotheslining TIO! He hits the ropes and returns, getting another clothesline to land on Dylan! He pumps to the crowd, fired up, even throwing in a pose, before turning back and dodging another TIO attack. He grabs TIO from behind and manages to push him out of the ring! Dylan gets up, seeing what's going on, and starts to beg off towards the corner, even as Lightning begins scooting his feet towards him.*

Hood: What's gotten into this guy??

Rockwell: Lightning's charging up!

Hood: Don't do it, man, Dylan said he'll report you to Barrows!

*Lightning appears to be feeding off the positive reaction from the crowd, after such a rough week. He reaches out, planning to shock Dylan, but gets shocked himself when Dylan suddenly nails him with a cheap shot, sending Lightning staggering back. Dylan then rushes forward, kicking Lightning in the gut, then lifting him and delivering a running impact DDT! Lightning's back down, as Dylan gets up, dusting himself off and looking annoyed that Lightning even dared to think he'd be afraid of him. Thunder, seeing this, starts to come back in, but his foot is grabbed by The Incredible One, who yanks Thunder off the apron! Before Thunder can try to defend himself, TIO sends him rocketing into the ring post, sending Thunder in a heap to the outside mats.*

Hood: It just got a lot quieter here...

Rockwell: TIO just made this one a handicap match!

Hood: That man is always thinking one move ahead!

*Lightning tries to get up and keep fighting, but a wild swing misses, and Dylan Thomas connects with an atomic drop that sends Lightning falling into the ropes. Dylan jumps up behind him with both feet, standing on Lightning's shoulders while his arms are over the ropes, choking him! The ref quickly intervenes, wanting Dylan to back off. He does, as Lissandra walks by, popping something out of her purse. She hands it to TIO, who quickly turns and sprays whatever it is into Lightning's face!! The wrestler lets out a yell and pushes himself backwards, blinded. He tries to clear his vision, obviously in a lot of pain, but he's soon forgetting about his eyes as Dylan is there to grab him, taking Lightning down with the Perfect Finisher!!! Dylan makes the easy cover, confident, as TIO smiles from the outside... 1... 2... 3!!!!*

Minos: Here are your winners... The A-List!!

Rockwell: A dirty victory for a dirty team!

Hood: Hey now, no victory is dirty. They're all earned, one way or another.

Rockwell: I honestly have enough faith in Dylan Thomas and The Incredible One that they could have won this one cleanly. But they couldn't help themselves!

Hood: All I see are two future GCWA Hall of Famers getting their arms raised, Adrian. Deal with it.

Rockwell: Another tough loss for Thunder & Lightning. We'll see if their team is able to continue after this one.

*Lightning has rolled to the outside, still hurting, as Thunder staggers over to him. A helpful fan tosses him a water bottle, which he uses to try and clear Lightning's vision. In the ring, Dylan, Lissandra, & The Incredible One are standing tall, looking extremely confident.*

*We cut away to the back, where Jonathan Barrows is watching the action. He nods with a small smile on his face, before turning back around... and almost running into Jones, who's waiting there.*

Jonathan Barrows: What are you doing, Jones? Stalking me?

Jones: Er, no, sir. Your brother Hunter said you needed to do an interview segment, so I came to find you.

*Jonathan shakes his head, looking around for a second or two.*

Jonathan Barrows: If I wanted to do an interview... I'd go to the ring and conduct it myself. I know you were an announcer for OCW, but here in the GCWA... well, you should be glad you're still employed, correct?

Jones: ... Yes, sir.

*Jonathan starts to walk away, but then looks back at the camera, then returns, reaching out to Jones.*

Jonathan Barrows: I'm sorry, Jones. Too many things going on, guess it has me a little... stressed.

Jones: That's okay, sir, I understand.

Jonathan Barrows: Can I borrow your mic? I do have one announcement to make.

*Jones quickly hands over the mic, as Jonathan turns towards the camera, now completely ignoring him.*

Jonathan Barrows: Just wanted our audience to know, next week, on our final Friday Night Inferno before High Rollers, we will be having a contract signing in the ring. It will be between "The Rocketman" Ed Houston and The Incredible One.

*Jonathan tries to smile for the camera, but it never comes across well, so he goes with a simple smirk.*

Jonathan Barrows: Oh, and on that night, we will also be announcing the match stipulation that has been chosen for this match. I'm glad Mr. Houston has such confidence in himself that he left the choice up to The Incredible One, with my input, of course.

*Jonathan nods to the camera, then turns and walks off. Jones watches him go, then realizes something.*

Jones: Excuse me, sir? Sir? I need my mic back. Sir?

*Jones hurries after Jonathan Barrows, even as the camera man cuts out.*

GCWA North American Title Open Challenge match
Duce Jones(c) (4-1) vs. Lusus (0-0)

Minos: It is now time... for our main event... of the evening... this match... will be for the GCWA North American Championship!!

*The crowd here in Dallas is energized at the thought of watching a title match here tonight.*

Minos: Introducing first, the challenger... standing 6'7" and weighing 298 lbs... from Huntsville, Alabama... answering the Open Challenge.... here is "The Behemoth Brute"... Lusus!!

*The screen flickered to life as a subtle but ominous theme performed by a full orchestra played over the top of flashing video highlights. "Requiem For A Dream" had been composed by Clint Mansell and performed by Kronos Quartet. The images on the screen were incredibly distorted, making it nearly impossible to tell what was being seen. You could make out, but only barely, a barrage of high impact wrestling maneuvers being performed by what appeared to be the same person, but to numerous opponents.*

POWERBOMB!!

*Someone on the video had been launched across the ring with a Running Jackknife Release Powerbomb and the image on the screen shook and went to static as if the video feed had broken from the impact. After a few minutes of ear splitting static, the screen lit up with various clips of more maneuvers.*

POWERBOMB!!

*For the second time in a row after a long montage of throws, slams, and suplexes; it was a Running Jackknife Release Powerbomb that caused the image on the screen to distort until it appeared to break the video feed. As before with the static on the screen, this happened once more. When the image returned there were no more maneuvers. This time, there was a dimly lit room with a massive man standing far enough from the view of the camera to not give away a single sign as to who he was. In a gruff, deep voice, he managed to whisper yet shout at the exact same time.*

"The bodycount is rising!"

*As the words of The Behemoth Brute bellowed from the public announce speakers, in a glow of red lights, Lusus appeared from behind the stage curtain. His massive frame covered by his wrestling singlet, his identity protected by his mask. The fans boo'd as Lusus taunted them from the entrance stage.*

Rockwell: This Lusus is a massive individual.

Hood: I bet Duce is having second thoughts back there watching this guy come to the ring!

Rockwell: He's a former football player who, due to injury, has instead become a star in the wrestling world. He will definitely not be an easy victory for the champion.

Minos: His opponent...

*The fans are buzzing, but soon turn to a mixed reaction as a voice begins to speak through the PA 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 arena turn a crimson hue color, soon the stage filling up with smoke. After about a minute of waiting, Duce Jones slowly emerge through the fog, mixed emotions coming from the crowd.*

Minos: Now coming to the ring... standing 6'0" and weighing in at 215 lbs... from Memphis, Tennessee... here is your current GCWA North American Champion... Duce Jones!!

*Slowly making his way towards the ring, Jones ignores the cheers and jeers that the fans are giving, as he soon makes it to ringside. Climbing onto the apron, Duce goes to the corner to his right, climbing onto the second rope and peering out into the crowd. Finally done, he goes through the ropes and removes his hooded vest and championship as he prepares for action.*

Rockwell: Duce was said to have been found out on the Dallas streets holding a bottle of Pineapple Ciroc.

Hood: That cop should have arrested him. Then Lusus would already be North American champion.

Rockwell: Titles can't change hands on a forfeit, Hood, remember?

Hood: Oh, right. Okay, the cop did the right thing then.

Rockwell: At this point, no matter what else Duce has going on in his life, he needs to put it aside, because he's got a very serious challenger tonight.

*The Bell Rings.*

Rockwell: The belt is officially on the line!

Hood: Alright, Duce, you've already been an idiot by doing this Open Challenge... hopefully you don't wise up and get yourself DQ'ed.

Rockwell: I think he's planning to introDUCE himself to Lusus right now!

*Duce Jones, showing no fear, has stepped forward with the GCWA North American Title. He puts it in the face of Lusus, who doesn't back down. Duce nods his head in respect, before handing the title off to the referee... and turning back with a strike to Lusus, driving him back with punch after punch! Duce then runs back to the ropes, coming back with a shoulder tackle... that barely fazes Lusus. Duce, seeing this, gets back up and jumps in the air with a dropkick, but this only sends Lusus back a step. Duce jumps again with a second dropkick, and again Lusus doesn't go down. So Duce heads to the ropes and runs back, leaping up... and getting caught in his apparent flip attempt by Lusus, who snaps Duce back down with a modified Alabama slam!! Lusus stands over the champion, glaring down at him, as Duce tries to pull himself away.*

Rockwell: What a display of power from this man!

Hood: You mean this Brute!

Rockwell: Duce Jones has got an uphill climb here tonight!

Hood: Moron should have never put the belt out there...

*As Duce gets up, Lusus attacks him with several forearm shots, each one landing with a serious amount of force. Lusus then picks Duce up easily in his arms, taking a few steps with him before hitting a powerslam! Duce rolls to his side, coughing from the impact, as Lusus stands back up. He grabs Duce by the hair, dragging him upwards, and stares at him for a second before delivering Good Riddance (Burning Lariat)!! Duce goes down hard, his head bouncing twice on the canvas. Lusus drops to his knees, making the cover and watching the referee to make sure he does his job. The ref slides in... 1... 2... and Duce kicks out, avoiding the quick loss. Lusus, angry, reaches down, choking Duce! The champ's legs kick out frantically, even as the referee comes in to try and get Lusus to break, threatening to disqualify him.*

Hood: What a monster!

Rockwell: Lusus is dominating the early going!

Hood: We might as well announce him as the new champion now, and save ourselves some time.

*Lusus releases the choke, and a single word from him gets the referee to back off. He stands up, pulling Duce up from behind. He grabs Duce around the middle, planning to suplex the smaller wrestler across the ring. But Duce suddenly responds, throwing his head back in a desperate gamble, smashing it into Lusus' nose! Lusus lets go of Duce and steps back towards the corner, a hand across his face. He looks more annoyed than hurt, but the distraction works, as Duce comes running towards him, hitting him with a running crossbody in the corner. Duce continues through the ropes, landing on the apron. As Lusus staggers forward, Duce springs off the top rope, completing the Duce's Wild with a zig zag, taking Lusus down for the first time this match! He makes the cover... 1... and Lusus kicks out relatively quickly.*

Rockwell: The champ has no plans to go down without a fight.

Hood: Maybe not, but did you see how quick Lusus got out of the pin? It's going to take an awful lot to keep him down.

Rockwell: Duce just needs to keep on the offensive.

Hood: Duce needs to take advantage of the situation and run for the hills, so he can keep his belt.

*As Lusus starts to rise back up, anger evident in his expression, Duce flies in with a bicycle knee strike, knocking the man back to his knees. Duce then gets in behind Lusus, trying to subdue him by applying a sleeper hold. He twists and tightens as much as possible, as Lusus fights against the hold. The referee moves in, but Lusus is already pushing himself off the mat, dragging Duce up with him. The champion hangs on, keeping the hold locked, but he's now clinging to Lusus' back as "The Behemoth Brute" walks towards the corner. He turns, driving Duce backwards to crush him between Lusus and the buckles, then again, then a third time, finally making Duce drop his hold. Lusus coughs, stepping away, then turns back, trying to trap the champ in the corner. But Duce jumps onto the second turnbuckle and leaps upwards, getting a Superman punch! Lusus falls into the ropes, hanging onto the middle one, as Duce fires up the crowd.*

Rockwell: The champion is bringing everything he's got at the challenger!

Hood: And he's still just managed to get him to a knee! Duce may need to start thinking about any weapons he can use at ringside.

Rockwell: This isn't a hardcore match, Hood.

Hood: But the ref is easily distracted, trust me.

*Hood gets up from the table, starting to wave his hands, but Rockwell quickly pulls him down, hushing him. In the meantime, Duce sees Lusus on the ropes, and decides to make use of it, running in for the Nice To Knee You swinging knee lift! But Lusus blocks it with one large arm and shoves Duce off, causing him to do a quick roll. He gets back up and tries to charge again, but Lusus grabs him, hitting the Random Act of Violence (short-arm lariat) to put Duce down! Lusus then shakes his head for a moment before reaching down and grabbing Duce's legs, keeping him from getting away. He slides Duce close to the middle of the ring, then starts swinging the smaller wrestler around with the Cardiac Unrest (giant swing)!! The fans, even being on Duce's side, can't help but can't along with the swings.*

Hood: Round and round the champion goes, where he stops, only Lusus knows!

Rockwell: I'm getting dizzy just watching this.

Hood: Take a drink, it'll help.

Rockwell: *Cough* That's not water!

Hood: I never said it was...

*Lusus finally stops spinning, throwing Duce to the side. He takes a second as well to steady himself, clearing his head. He walks over and picks Duce up, locking his arms around him. He starts delivering headbutts while holding Duce in a bear hug, otherwise known as Ezekiel 25:17! Duce is in real trouble, as the ref checks on him to see if he will submit. Duce refuses though, throwing back his own headbutts. It's hard to tell who's getting the worse of it, though. Eventually, Lusus drops the hold, shoving Duce backwards into the corner. Lusus then wipes some sweat out of his eyes, before turning and charging, going to the avalanche in the corner. But Duce flips over the ropes, barely catching himself on the apron, as Lusus crashes in, his momentum taking him up and over so that he hits the top of the post!! Lusus staggers back, dazed, with Duce immediately springboarding up and flying in with a forearm shot that knocks Lusus down! Duce dives on top... 1... 2... and Lusus breaks free of the pin.*

Rockwell: Duce almost got him!

Hood: Can it be an upset if the champ retains?

Rockwell: These guys both are incredible wrestlers. Honestly, neither winning is an upset.

Hood: So both are favorites?

Rockwell: No, that's not what I... nevermind.

*Lusus is back up again, holding a hand against where his mask (and, thus, his head) hit the post. He leans into the corner, trying to regain his balance. But Duce doesn't give him the time, charging in and hitting a running cornered Yakuza kick! Since Lusus stays up, thanks to the ropes, Duce backs off, then charges a second time, hitting with another kick! He's taking energy from the cheering crowd as he steps away one more time, charging in. But this time Lusus rises up, catching Duce by the throat! But the champion manages to knock the arm away, then spins into a roundhouse kick, knocking Lusus back once more! He starts delivering a corner punch and chop combination, trying his best to wear the big man down while he's got him in trouble.*

Hood: How is Duce Jones doing this?

Rockwell: Duce is determined to prove he's worthy of the North American championship!

Hood: He could do that just showing up at autograph sessions!

*Duce brings Lusus out of the corner, struggling to drag him along. He wants him perfectly positioned in the center of the ring. With Lusus still looking unable to focus, Duce lands a few more strikes, before setting Lusus up for the Juice. He goes for the first step, kicking Lusus in the chest, but Lusus surprisingly reaches out, catching the leg! He glares at Duce, then lifts up, flipping Duce into the air. Duce shifts his weight while in mid air, managing to come back down on his feet. He turns back to Lusus... who comes in with the Frenzy of the Bakkhela (Roaring Elbow)!! The shot nearly takes Duce's head off, sending him cartwheeling to the mat. Lusus drops for the cover, but realizes that Duce landed with his left foot under the ropes. Lusus drags Duce back and finally makes the cover, with the referee right there... 1... 2... but Duce shoots a shoulder off the mat at the last second!*

Rockwell: I'm surprised the champ got out of that one!

Hood: I'm surprised his spine wasn't shattered. Someone that size hitting you with a roaring elbow? It should be over!

Rockwell: Duce has a strong motivation not to lose his belt.

Hood: Well, I hope he enjoys that motivation when he's sipping through a straw all next week!

*Lusus pulls himself up, then grabs hold of Duce's arm, hauling the champion to his feet. He sets Duce up, twisting him around for the Thyrsus Spike (Falcon arrow suplex into a sitting piledriver). Duce tries to break free, but he can't, as Lusus takes him down! The fans are chanting desperately for Duce, scared now, as Lusus rolls him over for another cover... 1... 2... and again, somehow Duce gets his shoulder up! Lusus doesn't appear to believe that the referee didn't finish his count. He stands up, looking over at him, with the referee putting some space between them. Lusus then reaches down, hauling Duce back up. He decides he's ready to end it, taking Duce over towards the side, then picking him up, preparing to send him on his way with the LOCO-BOMB!! He moves forward... and Duce manages to jump off, landing behind Lusus. As Lusus turns around, Duce lashes out, catching him right under the chin with a superkick! Lusus falls to a knee, and Duce immediately charges in, nailing him with the Krayzed Knee (Running busaki knee strike)!!! Lusus is down, as Duce crawls over him to make the cover, raising an arm in the air to count along with the referee... 1... 2... and Lusus gets a shoulder up!!!*

Rockwell: Damn!! Lusus kicked out of the Krayzed Knee!!

Hood: Duce should have held a leg instead of showboating!

Rockwell: What's it going to take to keep Lusus down?

*Duce is still sitting on the mat, in complete shock. It isn't often that someone manages to get out from the Krayzed Knee, his father's move. The fans start a "Duce" chant, trying to inspire the champion to get back up. After a few seconds, Duce does so, nodding his head to the crowd. He turns towards a recovering Lusus, walking over to him. He helps to lift Lusus up, then grabs hold of his arms, setting him up for the Duce of Clubs!! But Lusus suddenly pulls Duce closer to him, then lifts him in the air, running forward with the LOCO-BOMB!! The fans gasp as Duce goes flying out of Lusus' grasp, hitting hard from the impact... and sliding out of the ring, with Lusus desperately grabbing at his leg but being unable to stop him! Lusus looks furious, realizing what he just did. He goes to roll out of the ring, as the referee begins his count.*

Hood: That would have ended it!

Rockwell: Maybe, maybe not, but we'll never know, because the momentum took Duce Jones out of the ring!

Hood: Think about how powerful that move had to be to send him out, Adrian! Do you really think he's kicking out of a pin?

Rockwell: We'll never know...

*Outside the ring, Lusus is struggling to get Duce back up. Although Lusus has a lot of power, this match has been extremely taxing on both men, and Duce is almost dead weight at this point. The ref counts, reaching 5, then 6, as Lusus works Duce up. He rolls Duce slowly under the ropes, then climbs up himself, stepping through. The ref stops his count, and then starts a different one as Lusus tries for the cover... 1... 2... and Duce manages to get an arm barely up! Lusus shakes his head in frustration, before pulling both men up. He decides to try again, picking Duce up for another release jackknife. But this time Duce suddenly pulls away... nailing Lusus with a knee strike to the head in mid-air!! Lusus staggers, dazed, as Duce lands on his feet. He jumps forward, grabbing Lusus and getting the Ripcord Headbutt followed by the knee strike, otherwise known as the Duce of Clubs!! Lusus falls to his knees, but still isn't down, as Duce runs to the ropes and returns, landing another Krayzed Knee as well!!! Lusus is finally down, as the champion makes the cover, holding onto one large leg... 1... 2... 3!!!!!!*

Minos: Here is your winner... and STILL GCWA North American Champion... Duce Jones!!!

Rockwell: He did it! Duce Jones retains!

Hood: Man, I'm glad I didn't bet on this match!

Rockwell: Me too, since you always use my money...

Hood: Hah! Well, I'll give Duce some props, he actually came through in his Open Challenge. But it sure cost him a lot of pain!

Rockwell: Lusus was damn close to taking this one and shocking the world with a victory. We can only hope such an incredible talent sticks around for a rematch, as I'd love to see it!

*We cut away from Duce Jones' celebration to go backstage, to what appears to be a darkened, rarely used hallway. The cameraman is creeping down the hallway, apparently trying to be quiet as he makes his way through the area. He hears something and focuses on it, then start to head towards another branch of the hallway. The camera slowly goes around the corner, showing Hunter Barrows pacing back and forth. He's got his phone out, and he's seemingly on hold, due to the awful muzak we're hearing.*

Hunter Barrows: I can't believe how long this is taking.

*Suddenly, we hear a click.*

Voice: Hello?

*Hunter immediately presses the speaker button and puts the phone back up to his ear, wanting to talk to the person like normal, rather than broadcasting it out for the world to hear. The cameraman can be heard groaning slightly.*

Hunter Barrows: Hello? Please, don't put me back on hold. You're the third person I've talked to over there. What kind of a place are you running? Is it always this big a hassle??

*Hunter suddenly stops and takes a few deep breaths before continuing.*

Hunter Barrows: I'm sorry, I know, it's not your fault. But look, I'm trying to reach a patient that's in your care. He might be listed as Ace Barrows... maybe under John Jones, he always liked that pseudonym. No? Okay, what about The Accelerator? Yes, it's a real name. He's my father.

*Hunter listens for a few more seconds, then looks at his phone in confusion, before getting back on.*

Hunter Barrows: What do you mean you have nobody currently there by any of those names? He's got to be there... Jonathan said...

*Suddenly, Hunter stops, as he hears the next bit of information. His eyes go wide.*

Hunter Barrows: What? WHAT?

*Hunter is quiet for a few more seconds, although he's looking more and more freaked out.*

Hunter Barrows: That's... NOT possible... No... NO... WHO CHECKED HIM OUT??

*Hunter starts moving rapidly around the hallway, and the cameraman decides, for his own employment, that now's a good time to depart. The camera pulls back, and we fade out to blackness.*

OOC: Another one down! And only one more to go before GCWA High Rollers! Congrats to all the winners, this was a tougher week than expected to choose. Looking forward to what all of you have to bring in the next few weeks, as we start our third month back in existence! Two down, at least 10 more to go to keep up the tradition of lasting more than a year. Hey, maybe this time we'll go for 5 years instead. Okay, okay, let's start with one. Peace!

GCWA Presents - Friday Night Inferno

LIVE! Friday, November 1st, 2019

From the GCWA Arena, Dallas, TX

Opener

"Mad Dog" Mark Wright vs. Peter "The Janitor" Vaughn

Mid-Card

Fisher Goldblum vs. Tony Savage

Detective Jack Puffer vs. Xtreme, Grudge Match

Crash Rodriguez vs. Chad Vargas

Dangerous Dan vs. Dylan Thomas

Ed Houston and The Incredible One, Contract Signing

Duce Jones GCWA North American Title Open Challenge

Main Event

TBD From Above

Roleplaying will be from Friday, October 25th to Wednesday, October 30th, giving you 6 days to post your roleplay. Remember, each must be in before 12:00am CST to count.

Good luck to all!