Friday Night Inferno

GCWA Friday Night Inferno

*Well, the Zombie Apocalypse hasn't happened yet. That's a plus. It's crazy to see people stuffing themselves into bars and restaurants as soon as they're given the opportunity. Personally, I've enjoyed a lot of home cooking the last few months, and I don't see myself going back to grabbing take-out as much. Unless I get lazy. The best news right now is that, no matter what happens in the next few weeks, the GCWA continues on.If you need your sports fix, we've got it for you, so settle back and lets get to your favorite show in the whole wide world!! (Okay, it may be hyperbole, but just let me have this one, okay?)*

*We tune in at just the right time. Actually, we're a few seconds early, as a final car commercial flashes by with the owner acting a little crazy due to Coronavirus and saying he's slashing prices. The GCWA logo then appears and fades away, and we begin with the image of the Barrows family, all standing next to each other. The Accelerator is even seated in front, a man we haven't seen in quite some time, but then, this is an old family photo.*

Jonathan Barrows: Over the years, there has been one force on the wrestling business: The Barrows Family. The Accelerator created a dynasty that has continued to this day, as the GCWA has been taking the ratings by storm during this pandemic.

*Some of the more thrilling moments of the last few months are shown, including clips from both Ultimate Survival and Blood on the Battlefield V.*

Jonathan Barrows: And yet, there's a lesson that still has yet to be universally learned: you don't interfere with those in power.

*Images begin to pop up. We see Ed Houston turning down the offer of help from Hunter Barrows, and subsequently losing his opportunity to become World Champion thanks to the intervention of The Incredible One. The Danger Boiz are shown demanding their title shots of the Barrows. The next clips shows their battered bodies, possibly after the events of Blood on the Battlefield. The Big Bifford and Jonathan Barrows are shown arguing, followed by Bifford being fired after losing the World Title. The final shot shows Tony Savage, getting in Barrows' face about not following through with his promises. We then see Savage getting betrayed by Hunter Barrows and pinned to lose his North American Title.*

Jonathan Barrows: Even when it's laid out right in front of them... some still don't want to educate themselves.

*Clips from Blood on the Battlefield show Savage attacking Hunter Barrows, Ed Houston, and PerZag to 'ruin' the World Title Fatal Fourway match.*

Jonathan Barrows: All you can do at that point... is reinforce the lesson.

*We see a shot of Barrows setting up Tony Savage & Brady Vega to defend the Tag-Team Titles tonight against Enforcer & Justice.*

Jonathan Barrows: The New Era gets educational... tonight...

*Jonathan slowly smiles, an evil look if there ever was one. 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. Blastoff. The Worthiest Move Of All. The Sound of Silence. Under The Lights. One Shot, One Kill. The Biff End. The Perfect Finisher. Hollow Point. Each as impressive as you would expect. In the center of the flames, an image of the current GCWA World Heavyweight Champion, Mack O'Connor, appears, smirking as he stares into the camera. The fury of the flames overtakes the champion, 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 return to the GCWA Arena in Dallas, Texas! The crowd is even larger this week, as more and more Dallas residents are opting to pack the arena to see their favorite wrestling action up close. There may be a 25%-50% capacity order right now, but apparently the Barrows have gotten around that just as they did when they kept holding live events while everyone else closed. We flow through the crowd to get to ringside with Adrian Rockwell & Hood.*

Rockwell: Good evening, and welcome to Friday Night Inferno!! It's going to be an amazing night tonight, Hood! Two titles are on the line, seven matches, and a whole lot of action!

Hood: You're not seriously counting the Outsiders title as an actual belt, are you?

Rockwell: Anderson Haze sure thinks so, and so does Aaron Warthog.

Hood: Haze should know better. So should Warthog.

Rockwell: Well, Warthog's still defending his Outsiders United X-Division Title later tonight, while Tony Savage & Brady Vega are said to be putting their GCWA World Tag-Team Titles on the line against Enforcer and his wife, Justice!

Hood: I don't think Savage will even show. Does anyone know if Vega's in the building?

Rockwell: I don't know, Hood, but if they don't wrestle, Jonathan Barrows has already proclaimed that they will be stripped of the belts!

Hood: Good! That's what Savage deserves for what he did to Hunter!

Rockwell: Also tonight, The Big Bifford and Crash Rodriguez face off for the first time! Bifford's wanting revenge for Crash's involvement in the PPV main event a few weeks ago, and he gets his hands on him tonight!

Hood: I loved Crash attacking him, but I sure wouldn't want to wrestle an angry Bifford...

Rockwell: Along with that, we've got some incredible contests for you tonight! It's almost a PPV atmosphere!

Hood: Almost. If we just didn't have an Outsiders match on the card...

Rockwell: Give it a rest, Hood. It's going to be a good one!

Hood: I'll believe it when I see it.

*We come up on the co-owners' suite, where Jonathan Barrows is working on what appears to be a map of the GCWA Arena. He's circled several spots on the map, and as we watch, he circles one more entrance. Deana Barrows walks in, seeing the diagram and shaking her head.*

Deana Barrows: Are you still working on that, Jonathan? The show's about to get going.

Jonathan Barrows: I just want to make sure we have everything covered...

Deana Barrows: You're seriously taking this too far, brother. You know, Hunter's coming back tonight. We've got a party arranged for him in the guest suite. Don't you want to join him?

Jonathan Barrows: It's because of Hunter that I'm doing all this. I want to make sure my brother is safe tonight. After all, Tony Savage is going to be here, if he doesn't want to just be stripped of his Tag-Team Titles.

*Jonathan taps the marker against another spot, as if considering the vent listed there as a possible entry point. Deana looks exasperated.*

Deana Barrows: Why can't you just call Tony and work this out? I'm sure he can be reasonable...

*Jonathan turns and glares at Deana, who raises up her hands, backing away.*

Deana Barrows: Okay, Johnny. You do what you think you have to do. I'll be next door. Enjoy the show!

*Deana turns and leaves, shutting the door behind her. Jonathan turns back to the map diagram.*

Jonathan Barrows: So where are you going to come from, Savage? You think you can just sneak in here and not get arrested for what you did on Barrows Island? I have you now, Savage... I have you now...

*Jonathan goes and gets his cell phone to once again communicate with the security force stationed around the arena as we return to ringside.*

Rockwell: Jonathan's getting pretty stressed out about Tony Savage, isn't he?

Hood: Frankly, I'm happy he's keeping everything secure. He should have just stripped Savage & Vega of the Tag-Team Titles and fired Savage, but I guess his contract won't allow that.

Rockwell: If The Barrows hadn't cost Savage the North American Title, this wouldn't be happening. They caused all of this.

Hood: No, you're forgetting one thing: Ed Houston.

Rockwell: Houston was just trying to get revenge on PerZag!

Hood: He's still guilty!

Rockwell: We can talk about that as the night goes on. For now, let's get to our first match!

Singles Match
Mike Zybala (6-5) vs. Xtreme (7-29-1)

Minos: Our first contest is scheduled for one fall... introducing first... standing 5'6" and weighing 175 lbs... from Buffalo, New York... he is the GCWA Unified X Division champion... Mike Zybala!!

*"Ready To Die" by Andrew W.K. plays, with the fans giving a mixed reaction for the coming of the Outsiders owner. The lights go out, blacking the arena (and causing another small scream from Hood). With the lights come back up, Zybala is now standing in the middle of the ring, smiling. The X Division Title is strapped around his waist. He goes to each corner, saluting the crowd, before settling down.*

Rockwell: Zybala actually seemed reluctant to have this match tonight, due to the condition of his opponent.

Hood: Why would a ghost have feelings about the living? Someone should study that...

Rockwell: *Sigh* What matters is that Zybala has remained a strong X Division Champion, and he'll wrestle tonight, no matter how he feels...

Minos: His opponent... standing 6'3" and weighing 290 lbs... from Parts Unknown... 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. However, no one appears in the entrance, and slowly, the lights come back up. Zybala looks on from the ring, wondering what's going to happen now.*

Rockwell: The last time we saw Xtreme, he was being dropped on his injured neck by a Biff End from The Big Bifford.

Hood: Yeah, and they were basically holding him at the hospital to keep him from getting even worse. Maybe their security finally stopped the hardcore veteran?

Rockwell: Honestly, I kind of hope so. Xtreme needs a few weeks off, and maybe a lot more, or else he'll just keep coming in just to lose quickly. He needs to get healthy.

Hood: At least physically... I don't think he'll ever be healthy mentally...

*A ringside attendant calls Minos over, talking with him. Zybala, interested, ventures over to try and listen in. But Minos is already up and heading forward once again to talk to the audience.*

Minos: Due to Xtreme's inability to wrestle, we will have... a substitute!

*The fans cheer, liking something unexpected. Zybala waits, wondering what the Barrows have in store for him. They've been friends lately, but who knows what could change. Suddenly, "Oh Yeah!" by Green Day begins to play, starting at "I am a kid of a bad education, the shooting star of a lowered expectation". Everyone turns to the entryway, as an unknown individual steps out.*

Hood: Who the hell is that??

Rockwell: Never seen him before...

Minos: Standing 5'6" and weighing 150 lbs... the apparent brother of Xtreme... Barry!!!

*The fans don't know what to make of this guy as Barry approaches the ring, looking like he's in awe of the crowd in the GCWA Arena. He enters the ring carefully, but is able to step through without injury. He smiles and climbs the turnbuckle, only getting up one rung before deciding that's enough and raising a shaking hand in the air.*

Hood: THIS is the brother of Xtreme??

Rockwell: Maybe he's adopted...

Hood: I guess so, but considering how bad a job Xtreme's mom did on him, surely this guy would look a lot worse!

*The Bell Rings.*

Rockwell: Well, I guess we've got ourselves a match!

Hood: I'd like to say Zybala's in danger here, since he doesn't know this guy's moves... but look at the guy!

Rockwell: He's not exactly the most muscular foe I've ever seen...

*Barry comes forward towards Zybala, who seems rather pleased by seeing him. They start talking, with Barry telling Zybala about how he admires him for doing Outsiders. Zybala nods back, asking about his wrestling experience, and Barry starts talking about the few matches he's had in his career. The two men talk on, ignoring the growing impatience in the crowd as they're watching this discussion. It's not exactly what the fans came here to see. The referee watches on, wondering if anything's going to happen, as Barry and Zybala laugh about something said only between them.*

Rockwell: Well, this is unusual.

Hood: C'mon, someone stomp the other's brain in!

Rockwell: I'm sure they'll get to it soon, Hood...

Hood: This feels like debate club. I HATE debate club!

*Sensing the anger growing in the crowd around the ring, Zybala raises a hand to Barry and says that they ought to get going. Barry nods, thanking Zybala for being so generous, before setting himself in a sloppy defensive stance. Zybala nods and comes in, locking up with him. Zybala easily pushes Barry back towards the ropes, getting him into the corner. The referee starts his count, and Zybala breaks the hold, stepping back with a smile. Barry nods to him and comes out of the corner, going for the lock-up again. This time, Zybala gets backed up, although it seems like Zybala's mostly allowing it to happen. They get back to the ropes, with Barry whipping Zybala over to the other side. Zybala rebounds and comes back, with Barry catching him with a hip toss! Zybala goes down, laying there, as Barry gets energized, pumping his fist towards the crowd! Behind him, you can see Zybala sit up, still smiling as he starts to get to his feet.*

Rockwell: Barry hit his first offensive move in the GCWA!

Hood: ...

Rockwell: Okay, so Zybala's just letting him get some moves in, what's wrong with that?

Hood: ...

Rockwell: You hate anything that makes Zybala look good, don't you?

Hood: ... Yep.

*Barry, seeing Zybala upright, heads over to him, trying to lock up again. This time, though, Zybala steps into him, spinning Barry around and delivering a Russian leg sweep!! Barry kicks his legs on the mat, holding his head, as Zybala confidently gets back to his feet. He looks down at Barry, waiting for the young wrestler to pull himself together. Eventually, Barry gets himself up, trying to shake it off. Zybala nods to him and waves him on, wanting to see what he's got. Barry, firing up, starts throwing lefts and rights at Zybala! Of course, Zybala is easily blocking each shot with his forearms, but it's still some impressive fire from the wrestler. Unfortunately, that fire may not be enough, as Zybala sneaks a right hand through Barry's defenses, sending him staggering back into the ropes. As Barry returns, Zybala steps forward... SUPERKICK!! Barry crashes onto his back, not moving, as Zybala straightens back up.*

Rockwell: Pretty much a foregone conclusion...

Hood: Can we book Zybala against The Empty next? Or Dr. Baad? Maybe Enforcer? I want to see him take at least a LITTLE offense!

*Zybala moves over to the downed Barry, checking him, but he's not moving. Zybala goes for the pin to end it. That's when Watch Me Shine by Fozzy hits the speakers and through the curtain emerges Dylan Thomas with 'The A-List Fixer' Dave Branson as ever, in tow. Dylan stands on the stage soaking in the boos directed his way and loving every single second of it. He reaches round and Dave passes him a microphone. Dylan smiles as the boos get louder because the GCWA fans realise that Dylan is here to talk.*

Dylan: Hey! Mikey!

*Dylan gets the attention of Mike Zybala who begins to make his way through the ring ropes causing Dylan to back up just slightly - even though Zybala is in the ring and Dylan is all the way up on the stage.*

Dylan: Hey woah! Woah! Easy big man...

*Dylan chuckles and looks at Dave Branson.*

Dylan: Big guy, you believe this guy? I only came out to talk and already he wants to rip my balls off.

Rockwell: Charming!

Hood: Sssh!

*Dylan turns his attention back to Zybala stepping forward to his original place on stage.*

Dylan: Mikey...Mikey...Mikey... I heard what you said on last week's Inferno and I've gotta be honest: That was very big of you to say all of those things when I wasn't even here last week!

Hood: You know that's a very good point. Typical Zybala to wait until Dylan has some time off to run his mouth!

Rockwell: Oh please!

Hood: Sssh!

*Zybala smirks beckoning Dylan to come down to the ring.*

Dylan: What? And get your disgusting sweat all over my lovely new suit? Nah, if it's all good with you bro, I'm good. Right here.

Rockwell: ....And typical Dylan to run away from a fight.

Hood: Well, why should he get his new suit dirty? I happen to know that's custom made of course.

Dylan: You asked last week why I want to face you one more time for that X-Division title. I'll answer your question like I did just a few weeks ago! That... X-Division Championship for all intents and purposes still belongs to me.

Rockwell: WHAT?!

Dylan: I should never have lost that X-Division title to Crazy Chris. He only won thanks to a fluke pinfall!

Rockwell: Well, it looked pretty decisive to me...

Dylan: When I win the X-Division title back - and I will - it will be so decisive that even you won't be able to dispute it Zybala. Just like all those times over the past few weeks that I laid you out with the Perfect Finisher. Remember that?

*The crowd boos.*

Hood: Yeah! That was fantastic!

Rockwell: I seem to re-call most of those times that did happen, it was a sneak attack after matches!

Hood: Well the ends justify the means Adrian.

Dylan: ....And just so we're clear: why don't you also ask how your buddy Peter Vaughn is feeling after I laid his ass out too, and ALSO when Dave FIXED him completely?!

*Zybala looks furious, hating to remember how The A-List has punished Vaughn because of him. He finally starts to step through the ropes... and Barry pulls him down from behind, yanking him into a roll-up!! Barry hangs on desperately as the ref counts... 1... 2... 3!!!!!!!*

Rockwell: Wait!!!

Hood: Oh my god!! I love this new guy!!

Rockwell: It can't be!!

Minos: Here is your winner... Barry!!

*The fans are booing heavily, even as Barry rolls out of the ring and falls to the floor. Zybala jumps up, in complete shock. He looks around, then glares back at The A-List members, who are laughing.*

Rockwell: The A-List distracted Zybala, and he lost to... Barry?!?!?

Hood: Give that man the X Division Title!

Rockwell: The belt wasn't on the line, Hood!

Hood: It should have been, if Zybala hadn't been too much of a coward to put it up! At least give him a shot!

*Zybala is still complaining to the referee, with no success. Dylan continues to laugh as his music begins to play once more.*

?????: Cut the fucking music!

Rockwell: Who's that?

*Real Good Looking Boy by the Who begins to play as from out of the curtain emerges Lord Allton with his two bodyguards Tank and Vincenzo Larossia in tow. Lord Allton parks his wheelchair right next to Dylan Thomas who smiles broadly.*

Rockwell: It's Outsiders X-Factor Champion Lord Allton!

Hood: And more importantly, good friend and former employer of Dylan and Lissie!

Allton: Do forgive my intrusion Mr. Zybala.... Dylan.... But I have something to get off my chest. Mr. Zybala since our meal, I've come to realise that you are not such a bad guy and yes I did wonder if you were trying to kill me that night and I admit I was wrong. However! Since I have joined your 'federation' I feel you still don't take me as seriously as you really should. Oh do you really think a few disabled bars in a bathroom are going to cut it? No! When I finally get to have my match with Uber-Man rest assured that I will be your new Outsiders Champion. Until that time comes? Well...

*Lord Allton turns his attention to Dylan Thomas.*

Allton: As they say... Old habits die hard. Heh... Really Mr. Zybala, it's nothing personal... But Dylan has always been best for business and it's a shame that you really fail to comprehend that. That's why I'm throwing my entire endorsement behind you Dylan. Whatever you need, whatever you want... whatever you require of me, or my boys...? Consider it done.

*Dylan smiles again.*

Dylan: Well thank-you Rob...er Lord Allton. May I say also that if you require myself or Dave Branson for any reason.... Consider it done. Because Lord Allton... I hereby make you, Tank and Vinnie HONOURARY members of the A-List!

*Both Dylan and Lord Allton look at Zybala and smile as Zybala looks on with eyes of stone.*

Rockwell: Dylan and Lord Allton are in partnership and it looks as if they have one goal! Destroy Mike Zybala!

Hood: This is awesome! What an incredible night so far! I can't wait!

Rockwell: What does this mean for Zybala and GCWA as a whole?

Hood: It means Zybala is fucked!

*The camera focuses once more on the expanded A-List. Security has moved in to try and keep Zybala from rushing them, although the frustration on his face is obvious. We fade out.*

*We come back from the break to see the intrepid reporter, Jones, standing in the back. He's still got a large bruise on the side of his head due to the car wreck with Aaron Warthog earlier in the week, but he's still here to do his job, if only to spite Hood. He's waiting in front of a locker room door.*

Jones: Hello, everyone, and welcome back to Friday Night Inferno! We're waiting here for...

*The door slams open suddenly, startling Jones, as Barry comes running out. He's carrying his bag with him, having changed into his normal clothes. He never bothered showering. He turns to run down the hall, before finally noticing Jones waiting for him.*

Jones: Barry! Just the man we were looking for...

Barry: Who? Me?

*Barry looks left and right for a second before deciding not to run away.*

Jones: That's right, Barry. You just had one of the biggest upset wins in GCWA history! How are you feeling?

Barry: I feel sensational! It was amazing to get the victory over a champion in my first match!

Jones: Do you see this victory boosting your career in the GCWA as you move forward, wrestling for your injured brother?

*Barry is looking more and more nervous as he keeps looking around before talking.*

Barry: Well, you see... I'm undefeated now, and I'm going to officially announce my retirement and stay undefeated. I want to remain a role model for the youth of today.

Jones: Retirement?? But, Barry... you were going to take Xtreme's place...

Barry: He'll be fine. I'm sure. It's been great to be a part of this family, but a wrestler knows when it's time. I have to go now. Good bye...

*Barry turns and hurries down the hallway. He still seems to be expecting something bad to happen to him wherever he goes. Jones watches him leave, before turning back to the camera.*

Jones: And there you have it. Barry, an unknown wrestler before tonight, retiring undefeated. Back to you guys.

*We go back to the announce table, where Hood is laughing uncontrollably.*

Rockwell: Really enjoyed that, did you, Hood?

Hood: It's amazing! Hah hah hah!! Zybala's NEVER going to get even a rematch!

Rockwell: Well, we've already had one shocking upset. Let's see what the rest of the night has to offer...

Singles Match
John E Depth (1-5) vs. Ed Houston (12-4-1)

Minos: The next match is scheduled for one fall... coming down the aisle... standing 6'2" and weighing 230 lbs... from Hollywood, Florida... here is John E Depth!!

*"Bad Touch" by Bloodhound Gang hits! Depth emerges from behind the curtain looking as sleazy as ever. With a lollipop hanging from his mouth, he struts down the ramp. He's sporting a floral speedo and an unbuttoned floral shirt. His hairy chest is all oiled up. He pauses, noticing a few women at ringside. They aren't particularly attractive. They just have tits. He lowers the aviator shades covering his eyes and removes a few business cards from his speedo. He hands them over and says, "Call me." Depth turns and hustles toward the ring, rolling in under the bottom rope. He pops to his feet and mimes a 'reeling' motion, as though he's filming the fans.*

Rockwell: Depth released a promo this week that was... unique.

Hood: I'll never think about turntables the same way again.

Rockwell: It was a run of free thought rarely seen in the GCWA, that's for sure. But will it help Depth win tonight?

Hood: Might as well try something new...

Minos: His opponent... standing 5'9" and weighing 175 lbs... from Miami, Florida... he is a former GCWA World Heavyweight Champion... 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: Houston lost his basketball this week, but managed to track it down, only to then autograph it and give it to a fan!

Hood: This is why Houston doesn't deserve championships. No one should give away anything! Hang onto it! You paid the price for it, it's yours!

Rockwell: Some would say Houston's spirit and sense of fair play are some of his best qualities.

Hood: Some would also say that COVID-19 was sent from the aliens from planet Zygmoffa-4 to purge the world...

Rockwell: That's utterly ridiculous.

Hood: Can't prove it's not true, though, can you?

*The Bell Rings.*

Rockwell: Can Depth keep up with one of the best wrestlers in the GCWA?

Hood: Can Houston withstand touching a guy who's directed a bunch of porn star movies?

Rockwell: ...

Hood: With each move, Houston's reputation gets more tarnished! I love it!

*Houston nods to the referee as he walks forward, staring at Depth. The two know each other from their OCW days, but it's doubtful they considered each other friends. Depth seems a little off-track, muttering to himself. He turns away from Houston, while apparently working out an unknown problem in his head. Houston looks a little concerned, glancing at the referee for advice. The ref has none to offer, but that's not too surprising. Houston walks over to Depth, turning him around to talk to him... and Depth grabs Houston's head, dragging him down into a small package!!! The ref dives in... 1... 2... No! Houstin manages to kick out! Both wrestlers jump up, with Depth grabbing at Houston again to try and swing him around for another roll-up, but Houston reverses into a cradle suplex, hanging on... 1... 2... and Depth kicks out! Both wrestlers are on their feet again, with Depth launching himself at Houston, only to have Houston back body drop him over the top rope!! Depth catches himself on the apron, but Houston then leaps off the ropes with a springboard kick, sending Depth flying!*

Rockwell: Quick pace for the start of this one! Depth nearly stole it with that surprise small package.

Hood: If anyone's going to know about small packages, it's John E Depth!

*Depth pulls himself up on the outside, having landed awkwardly on one shoulder. His sneak-attack certainly didn't go the way he planned it. Depth gets his balance, checking on one knee, before he turns back to the ring. Be he didn't realize that Houston is already on the run, diving through the ropes head-first to crash into him!! Both men land hard, but Houston avoids the worst of it, springing back to his feet. He gets himself up onto the apron and waits for Depth to rise up once more, then charges, leaping off with a corkscrew splash into him!! The fans are loving it, as Houston gets back up, dusting himself off. He pulls Depth to his feet and drags him over to the apron, rolling him back into the ring. Houston then goes up on the apron and springs over the ropes, doing a reverse flip onto Depth for a pin! The ref is there... 1... 2... but Depth reaches out and grabs the ropes, saving himself, and keeping this one going. Houston looks a little upset at himself for not pulling Depth away from the ropes, but he's a pro, so he goes right back to work.*

Rockwell: There's no doubt that Ed Houston puts on the most thrilling high-flying matches in the GCWA!

Hood: I think Dylan might argue with that one...

Rockwell: Let's not get into that feud again, Houston's got enough on his plate with Savage, PerZag, O'Connor...

Hood: Good point. Plus Dylan needs to stay focused on getting back his X Division Title, so he can ignore Houston for now.

*The referee moves back out of the way as Houston pulls Depth up, taking him towards the corner. He lifts Depth up, then goes up with him, apparently wanting a frankensteiner! But as Houston goes to jump, Depth pushes his legs away, sending Houston falling flat to the mat below!! Houston rolls, hurting, as Depth takes a moment to pull himself together. He climbs up on the turnbuckle, staring down at Houston, preparing for something big! The fans wait anxiously... and then Depth slowly comes back down the turnbuckle, making his way carefully back to the canvas. The fans boo, having wanted to see something dangerous, but Depth shakes his head at them, saying there was no reason to take a stupid risk. As Houston works to get up, Depth is there, pulling him close and landing a short-arm clothesline! He then goes off the ropes and comes back with a knee drop, trying to do a little more damage before he makes the cover... 1... 2... but Houston kicks out easily, showing he's got a lot left in the tank.*

Rockwell: The fans are really turning against Depth here.

Hood: Why should he risk breaking his neck to please these fickle fans? They'd boo him no matter what, he might as well stay safe!

Rockwell: They want to see someone willing to risk everything to win, Hood!

Hood: Then they can cheer for Houston all they want, and maybe when he gets injured, they'll realize that it's all their fault!

*Depth stays in control, pulling Houston to his feet. He sets Houston up for an atomic drop, lifting him overhead. But Houston readjusts on the way up, managing to fall behind Depth! Depth spins around, with Houston lashing out with some fierce chops to the chest! He drives Depth into the ropes, then whips him back across the ring. As Depth returns, Houston leapfrogs over him, then positions himself for Depth's return. He leaps for a dropkick, but Depth hangs onto the ropes, saving himself! Houston hits the mat, stunned, but struggles to get back up. Depth moves in, grabbing him by the head. He says something to Houston, then reaches out, jabbing him in the eye!! Houston stumbles away, blinded, as Depth continues to talk, letting loose a stream of consciousness. Unfortunately, this makes him a target, as the blinded Houston still lashes out with Houston, We've Got A Problem (Superkick)!!!! Depth's down, as Houston falls against the ropes, clearing his vision.*

Rockwell: A blind superkick!

Hood: That should be illegal!

Rockwell: Wha, no, the eye poke was the illegal part!

Hood: For all Houston knows, he just superkicked the referee!

*Houston has cleared his vision now, at least mostly, as he looks through a painful eye towards the downed Depth. He drags Depth closer to the corner, prepared to end this. Houston goes up, showing the sureness of feet that have marked his entire career. He gets to the top, taking an extra second to wipe across his eyes once more. He turns, ready to leap, but Depth is back on his feet now, coming over to him. He climbs up, punching away at Houston, with Houston returning the shots. The two struggle on the ropes for a few moments... and then Houston takes Depth to the canvas with a meteora!! Depth's flat again, as Houston spins and runs back to the turnbuckle, this time leaping upwards to get there as fast as possible. He sets, then lets fly with Blastoff (Shooting Star Press)!!! Depth can't move in time, with Houston landing squarely on top of him!!! The referee comes running in to make the count... 1... 2... 3!!!!!*

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

Rockwell: Another strong victory for Ed Houston!

Hood: If you ignore his blatant blind kicking...

Rockwell: Houston's showing that he's still part of the top tier of the GCWA, which means that anyone can fall to Blastoff!

*Houston is back on his feet, looking tired but happy. He lets the referee raise his arm, sparing a moment to glance over at the fallen Depth before going to the turnbuckle to celebrate. We cut away.*

*We go to an outside shot of the GCWA Arena. We can see that there is a much larger force than normal of security guards patrolling the grounds. One man goes by with trained guard dogs, who have probably been given the scent of Tony Savage. The camera moves around to show the various vehicles in the parking lot when a large man steps up in front of it.*

Security Commander: You don't need to be recording this.

*The man puts his hand up on the lens, blocking the view. We then fade to commercial.*

*Tony the Spider is sitting backstage on a crate away from everyone. He is happily holding his newly won Television Title. He gives it a little hug when out of nowhere Ryot and Rogue Daniels jump him from behind! They are wearing shirts that say "FUTURE SHOCK" on it.*

Ryot: You enjoying that belt, huh Tony?

*Ryot stomps on his back and kicks the belt away from Tony's hands. Rogue Daniels grabs a chair from the side of the crate. He takes a swing and it crashes down on Tony's back, as he lets out the loudest groan.*

Ryot: Let's make one thing clear here.

*Ryot kneels down on one knee and pulls Tony by his hair. He puts the title close to Tony's head.*

Ryot: You don't deserve this, alright? Your win was a fluke last week, everyone saw it! I promise you that we will make sure your life an absolute living hell!

*Rogue Daniels gets on the ground with Tony and latches on the Anaconda Vise. Tony is struggling to get out of it until he can't anymore and passes out. Rogue finally lets go.*

*Ryot stands up and looks at the TV Title and laughs at Tony. He drops the belt onto his stomach and leaves.*

*Rogue Daniels stops, looks down at Tony and spits on him.*

Rogue Daniels: Bitch.

*Rogue follows Ryot out of the room. Tony is left beaten and unconscious backstage. The camera pulls in close to his face where his eyes are closed shut. We then return to Hood & Rockwell.*

Rockwell: Tony The Spider has been taken out!

Hood: Guess he should have kept Mustard Factory people around him for protection, huh?

Rockwell: The man shouldn't have to be guarded at all times, Hood, just because he defeated Ryot for the titel!

Hood: You mean because he CHEATED! Everyone saw it! I hope Future Shock gets the rematch they deserve!

Tag-Team Match
PerZag & The Lost Soul (0-0) vs. Wrath of the Storm (0-2)

Minos: The next match is scheduled for one fall... now entering the arena... weighing a combined 420 lbs... from El Paso, Texas... they are Thunder & Lightning... Wrath of the Storm!!

*"Riding The Storm Out" by REO Speedwagon begins to play. Thunder appears on the entryway first, letting out a loud yell that echoes throughout the arena. He's followed by Lighting, who is scooting his feet to generate more energy. He moves his fingers to show a spark (nothing is seen). The two men strike a pose next to each other, calling out their names, before heading to the ring.*

Rockwell: Thunder and Lightning surprisingly attacked PerZag last week, trying to take down the North American Champion.

Hood: I'm the first to admit I haven't been a fan of these two goofballs, but it's a sound wrestling strategy to attack a champion to gain attention.

Rockwell: Well, it worked, in a way, as they're fighting PerZag & The Lost Soul tonight in the mid-card. But I think they were hoping to go for the title itself.

Hood: If they win here tonight, I don't see how PerZag could deny them. But they won't win.

Minos: Their opponents... first, standing 6'3" and weighing 235 lbs... from Parts Unknown... a holder of a Golden Opportunity... here is The Lost Soul!!

*The theme to Halloween plays as the lights dim. A spotlight shines on the entrance way as TLS appears. The crowd brings out their phones and turns on their flashlight apps as he makes his way methodically to the ring.*

Hood: It will take a while to get over seeing The Lost Soul dressed in drag...

Rockwell: It wasn't a pretty sight, but it worked to get him back into San Francisco.

Hood: Yeah, but after all that effort, he then had to leave to rejoin us here in Dallas!

Rockwell: You sure that's not a clone out there?

Hood: I... oh crap...

Minos: And now, The Lost Soul's partner... standing 6'5" and weighing 216 lbs... from Australia... with Rhiannon Clarkson... here is the GCWA North American Champion... "The Sexiest Man On Earth" PerZag!!

*'Whatever It Takes' by Imagine Dragons plays to the crowd as the women in the audience lose their shit. The men roll their eyes, stick fingers up and boo as the 'Sexiest Man On The Earth' PerZag, walks out from the back. He wears a long blue gown as his manager and unwanted girlfriend, Rhiannon Clarkson follows in tow. He winks at all the ladies as he walks past, making them all go crazy as Rhiannon Clarkson walks on, a pissed off look on her face. PerZag reaches the ringside, and quickly slides into the ring. He stands up, walks to the centre of the ring, and stops. The lights suddenly turn off, except for one spotlight that shines on the centre of the ring, directly on PerZag. PerZag grabs at his gown, pulling it off, showcasing his fantastic bod for all the people in the arena. He drops the gown to the ground as all the lights turn back on, and he walks over to one of the corners of the ring to await the match to start.*

Rockwell: News broke this week that PerZag had bought a bar. Interesting time to do it, during a pandemic.

Hood: He probably got it for a steal!

Rockwell: Probably so. Of course, the main reason he got it was so he could post the rule: No Mack O'Connors Allowed.

Hood: How many Mack O'Connors are out there?

Rockwell: Presumably more than one.

Hood: Bummer for the non-wrestler.

*The Bell Rings.*

Rockwell: So can PerZag work together with the man with the Golden Opportunity, The Lost Soul?

Hood: PerZag can work with anyone, because he has that much confidence in himself that partners don't matter.

Rockwell: I'm sure PerZag thinks something similar, Hood. But to beat another tag-team, even one with the record of The Wrath of the Storm, you have to have teamwork.

*PerZag comes out of the corner, ready to start wrestling right away, only to have The Lost Soul step in front of him. The two appear to be arguing over who gets to start the contest. Behind them, The Wrath of the Storm have apparently already talked things out. They both pull from their trunks eye-masks, which they wrap around their heads! They smile at each other, then both turn towards their foes, who are still arguing. Seeing this, Thunder and Lightning both run forward, hitting The Lost Soul from behind and sending him into PerZag!! PerZag stumbles into the corner, while The Lost Soul is pulled backwards by Thunder into a roll-up... 1.. and TLS is kicking out almost before the ref can start counting. He pushes himself up, only to get attacked on both sides by The Wrath of the Storm!! The two wrestlers kick away at him, apparently pretending to use martial arts with some of the kicks, as The Lost Soul covers up to avoid the majority of the strikes.*

Hood: Do they really think those masks give them ninja skills?

Rockwell: I think it's more likely it's giving them some confidence...

Hood: That ain't going to last long...

*PerZag's back now, angrily attacking Lightning and driving him backwards with a series of punches. Thunder starts to head that way, but is grabbed from behind by The Lost Soul, who drops him with a Scorpion Death Drop!! The Lost Soul makes the cover, but the referee is busy trying to break up PerZag and Lightning, and thus doesn't come over for the count. The Lost Soul doesn't let it bother him, rolling over and staying on Thunder's chest, punching away at him. On the other side, PerZag sends Lightning over the top rope and falling to the outside, slapping his hands together as if having just disposed of the trash. He finally listens to the referee and goes to his side of the ring, immediately sticking his hand out for the tag. The Lost Soul doesn't look his direction yet, though, instead driving a knee into Thunder's back and applying a camel clutch variation on the 'masked' wrestler. He pulls Thunder back, as if trying to take his head off, with Thunder fighting against the pain.*

Rockwell: The Lost Soul's veteran instincts have quickly gotten his team back in control of this one.

Hood: I think it was PerZag throwing Lightning out, myself.

Rockwell: But The Lost Soul's the legal man, and the one keeping Thunder down.

Hood: He should still tag in PerZag, so this one's over quickly...

*The Lost Soul has Thunder up now, jumping up to dropkick him backwards into their corner. He walks up, with PerZag still annoyingly putting his hand out. TLS slaps it, making the tag, and PerZag comes in to join The Lost Soul in stomping Thunder into the corner. TLS then goes to the apron even as PerZag pulls Thunder up and gives him a belly-to-belly suplex, tossing him easily. Thunder rolls onto his stomach, mostly on instinct, as PerZag gets to his feet and smiles, showing his "Perfect Ass" to the audience for a moment before strutting forward. He gets Thunder up again, this time whipping him back to a neutral corner. With Thunder laying there, PerZag gets some momentum and leaps, landing a Stinger Splash! He mocks Thunder's 'pose', strutting slightly as he drags Thunder out of the corner. He leaves Thunder in a dazed state, going off the ropes and coming back, no, Lightning grabs him by the hair from outside the ring, causing PerZag to topple backwards and hit hard!! The fans look shocked as the ref goes to admonish Lightning for his actions.*

Hood: That was blatant! PerZag's hair is insured!

Rockwell: Really?

Hood: Actually, I have no idea. But it should be insured!! Everything should be!!

*Lightning tags himself in, as Thunder goes to recover for a moment. PerZag is already trying to get up, but Lightning is there, landing a few punches. He smiles as he shifts his feet back and forth, working to give PerZag the shock! PerZag, though, no-sells the Shock, which has never really done anything to anyone. He punches back at Lightning, knocking him backwards. PerZag hits a running knee that knocks Lightning into the corner, with Thunder immediately slapping Lightning's shoulder to bring himself back in. Seeing this, PerZag steps backwards, reaching out his hand behind him to let The Lost Soul tag in. TLS looks at the hand, then reaches over the ropes, swinging downwards... and missing the tag! PerZag looks back, confused, which gives Thunder a chance to charge in, headbutting PerZag!! Both men stagger for a second, and then both fall forward to the mat, landing beside each other as The Lost Soul leans over the ropes, looking at them.*

Hood: What the hell?? The Lost Soul missed that tag on purpose!

Rockwell: I don't know, Hood, he did a pretty wild swing...

Hood: C'mon, Adrian, there wasn't that much distance between them!

Rockwell: Maybe PerZag should have been paying more attention to where TLS' hands were, then...

*Thunder has managed to get back up, grabbing at PerZag's leg to drag him back to his corner. But PerZag starts kicking away, managing to break free, and does a quick roll to get back on his feet. Thunder, seeing this, charges forward, but PerZag gives him a kick, followed by a Fameasser!! Thunder's down, stunned, as PerZag pulls himself to his feet. He grabs hold of Thunder, whipping him back towards the corner. PerZag follows, splashing into Thunder once more! The Lost Soul, seeing them so close, reaches out and tags PerZag, this time bringing himself back in. PerZag looks a little annoyed, perhaps questioning the earlier miss, but shrugs and backs away as The Lost Soul gets Thunder by the arm, pulling him out of the corner and whipping him towards PerZag, no, Thunder reverses, and The Lost Soul gets clotheslined by PerZag!!! PerZag's eyes go wide, as he didn't see that coming, even as the referee orders him back to his corner.*

Rockwell: PerZag took out The Lost Soul!

Hood: It was an accident!! Who could have expected Thunder to actually reverse something??

Rockwell: Either way, that just cost PerZag's team the momentum!

*A hurting Thunder manages to tag in Lightning, who's still relatively fresh. He doesn't bother charging himself up for The Shock, instead running forward and dropping an elbow onto The Lost Soul's back! He does it again, trying to drive the air out of TLS. Lightning smiles, striking a pose for a moment over The Lost Soul, but Thunder's already yelling to bring him over, so Lightning does so, trying to remain focused. He gets TLS into the corner, punching him a few more times before tagging Thunder back in. Thunder drops some knees on TLS, then tags Lightning back in. The two men keep switching in and out, each getting in a few hits before leaving again. They're really working over The Lost Soul, showing a lot more coordination than most would expect from them. Lightning, as the last man tagged in, finally pulls The Lost Soul up. He brings Thunder back in, with Lightning holding TLS in the air while Thunder runs off the ropes and comes back with a leaping clothesline, taking him down! Thunder makes the pin... 1... 2... and TLS kicks out!*

Hood: Damn, where are Wrath of the Storm getting this from?

Rockwell: They're rarely been gifted an advantage in a match, and they're trying to make the most of it!

Hood: But how are they working so well together?

Rockwell: They're brothers!

Hood: In my experience, that usually hampers the ability to work together...

*Thunder has TLS back up, tagging back in Lightning. PerZag is seething on the opposite side, pacing back and forth on the apron. Rhiannon Clarkson is trying to keep him calm, telling him he'll be back in the match soon. Lightning doesn't want that to happen, though. He takes The Lost Soul over with a hip toss, then gets behind him, trying to keep The Lost Soul down. But TLS is already fighting to his feet, with Lightning barely able to hang on. He pulls them backwards, allowing Thunder to tag himself back in. Lightning then holds onto Thunder, trying to let his brother take him out. But TLS ducks a discus punch, allowing it to hit Lightning instead!! Lightning falls backwards, as Thunder looks horrified at what he's done. He blames TLS, turning back to him and attacking, only to have kick him in the gut and take him out with a jawbreaker, sending Thunder backwards to the mat! The fans cheer even as TLS pulls himself up and stumbles to the ring, making it over to PerZag... and tagging him in!!*

Hood: Hah! You're screwed now!

Rockwell: The North American Champion gets his chance to take it to The Wrath of the Storm!

Hood: Just watch, this is going to be epic!

*PerZag storms through the ropes, ignoring a quick plea from Thunder before taking him down with a spear! Lightning tries to get back into it, but PerZag's ready for him, too, twisting him into an inverted DDT! The two brothers struggle to get up next to each other, as PerZag runs to the ropes and comes back... getting a flying crossbody into both of them!! They all go down, with PerZag making sure that Thunder can't leave the ring. Lightning, though, he kicks at, sending him rolling out. PerZag sets Thunder and lifts, getting him into a powerbomb position. He then runs forward, giving him a Bucklebomb instead!! Thunder's almost out on the corner, as PerZag pulls him back out, setting him for the Worthiest Move Of All (Powerbomb into double knee backbreaker)!! He lifts, landing the move perfectly!! PerZag then gets up, instead of making the pin, knowing that The Lost Soul tagged him while in the corner! TLS is already up in the air, leaping off with Souled Out (Somersault Leg Drop)!! He lands on Thunder, crushing him! As The Lost Soul makes the pin, Lightning tries to rush back in, only to get picked up by PerZag into the Sexy Neutralizer (Torture Rack submission)!!! As Lightning screams in agony, the ref makes the count on Thunder... 1... 2... 3!!!!*

Minos: Here are your winners... PerZag and The Lost Soul!!

Hood: Wooo, PerZag make him tap!!

Rockwell: I wouldn't be surprised if Lightning tapped out, but he wasn't the legal man, Hood. The Lost Soul got the pin.

Hood: But only because of The Worthiest Move of All setting him up! This was clearly PerZag's win!

Rockwell: They both won, which means The Wrath of the Storm have to go back to the drawing board...

*Both Thunder and Lightning are unceremoniously sent from the ring to the floor below. Rhiannon is celebrating with PerZag, even as The Lost Soul stands nearby, studying them. He is probably remembering the clothesline he took.*

*We see a shot of Enforcer in the back with Justice Orton-Cross, both preparing for their match in their own ways.*

Rockwell: The Tag Titles are on the line! Can Enforcer & Justice take the straps away from Savage & Vega?

*Enforcer finishes a set and turns to Justice, smiling at her. We fade out.*

*We're back at the co-owners' suite, where Jonathan Barrows is finishing a check-in with his security chief.*

Jonathan Barrows: Look, just keep your guard up. I know he didn't show last week, but it's part of Savage's plan. He'll be here tonight, mark my words.

*Barrows hangs up the phone, even when there's a knock at his door. Jonathan's eyes raise up, with him reaching to the side to grab the taser gun he got for just this circumstance. He presses a button to unlock the door, aiming... as Ed Houston walks in. Houston immediately raises his arms, with Jonathan lowering the taser with a sigh.*

Jonathan Barrows: Sorry, thought you were somebody else.

Ed Houston: It's okay. I know all about being prepared.

*Jonathan stares at Houston for a moment, wondering if he's being sarcastic, then shrugs.*

Jonathan Barrows: Look, Ed, if I can call you "Ed"... you and I haven't always had the best relationship, have we?

*Houston stares at Jonathan for a few moments, probably thinking about how Barrows backed The A-List multiple times to go after him.*

Ed Houston: I would say that's a fair statement.

Jonathan Barrows: There's a quote out there, though, that works for this situation: "The Enemy of My Enemy Is My Friend". You know Savage is targeting you as well. He's the man who cost you your chance to be World Champion.

Ed Houston: I haven't forgotten.

Jonathan Barrows: I know, and I am still upset at what he did at Blood on the Battlefield. Truth be told, you deserve another rematch. You do. And I think, if we work together, we can get rid of Mr. Savage and get you the rematch you truly deserve...

*Jonathan stands up, swallowing his pride and putting out his hand for Houston to shake. Houston hesitates, staring at the hand.*

Ed Houston: Mr. Barrows, I've told you and Hunter before. I want to earn everything I'm given. I will get my rematch with Mack, and I will defeat him to become World Champion again. I will happily fight Tony Savage whenever he wants to face me. But I'll do it on my own terms.

*Jonathan slowly lowers his hand, not believing what Houston just said. Houston, for his part, just turns and starts to leave the room. Jonathan watches him go, his anger starting to build. We go back to ringside.*

Singles Match
Lucas Thames (5-1) vs. Chad Vargas (7-6)

Minos: The next match is scheduled for one fall... introducing first... standing 6'4" and weighing 245 lbs... from Detroit, Michigan... here is Lucas "The Icon" Thames!!

*The opening bars of Not Gonna Die by Skillet begin to play and people begin to rise, cheering. Out of the curtain steps Lucas raising his arms in thanks. After a few moments Lucas walks down to the ring slapping the odd hand of fans but mostly staying focused on the job at hand. He walks up the ring steps, taking care to wipe his feet on the apron and climbs through. He raises his hands again acknowledging the cheers with a slight nod.*

Rockwell: Thames has been racking up quite a nice record for himself here in the GCWA. He also proved himself to be a hero, rushing to save an old woman getting mugged.

Hood: I would have just called the police. Or just kept walking. Depends on what kind of day I was having.

Rockwell: Well, Thames couldn't overlook someone in trouble.

Hood: He's facing a legend tonight. Guy should start looking out for himself, because HE'S the one in trouble...

Minos: His opponent... having his first match in the GCWA since February... standing 6'4" and weighing 240 lbs... from Knoxville, Tennessee... here is "The Confederate Icon" Chad Vargas!!

*the lights dim and the opening chords of Rush's "Working Man" controls the sound system.*

Well, I get up at seven, yeah
And I go to work at nine
I got no time for livin'
Yes, I'm workin' all the time

It seems to me
I could live my life
A lot better than I think I am
I guess that's why they call me
They call me the workin' man

They call me the workin' man
I guess that's what I am

'Cause I get home at five o'clock
And I take myself out an ice cold beer
Always seem to be wonderin'
Why there's nothin' goin' down here

*A figure appears at the top of the ramp, head down, with the American flag draped over their shoulders, covering their head. The man makes a slow jaunt towards the ring as Rush jams on. As the figure stands at ring side, he slowly stands up, dropping old glory onto the ground. It's Chad Vargas. He shoots the crowd a dirty look as he hops into the ring.*

Rockwell: There were some concerns that Vargas wouldn't make it here tonight after he was charged with assault at the Nashville International Airport.

Hood: No way the GCWA was going to let the Confederate Icon get railroaded! WEAK ASS CHARGES!

Rockwell: I'm a little concerned that there might be video of the incident. It WAS at an aiport. Plus, a lot of people always are carrying their cell phones and are quick to record...

Hood: That won't change the fact that Vargas was just defending himself. He's back, and no one's taking him away from us!

*The Bell Rings.*

Rockwell: So this is a true test for Chad Vargas. Is The Confederate Icon back, or will Thames put him at the back of the line?

Hood: No way Thames hangs with someone like Vargas. Not in my lifetime.

*Thames and Vargas come together at the center of the ring, with Vargas looking like he has no respect for his competition tonight. He shouts some insults at him, with Thames just responding back with cool emotion, not letting the veteran get to him. Vargas looks more annoyed by this. He throws a slap that smacks Thames across the side of the head! Thames turns away, then faces Vargas again, with Vargas telling him all about how this is HIS ring, and that Thames should fucking know better. Thames responds with a right that knocks Vargas back a few steps! Vargas, pissed, comes firing back, and soon these two big men are swinging it out to the cheers of the crowd in attendance! They end up in one of the corners, still swinging at each other, with the referee trying to get between the two men. Vargas uses the opportunity to get in a cheap shot that rocks Thames, right over the referee's head! Vargas then pushes the ref aside and grabs hold of Thames, coming out of the corner with a Lethal Strike (Swinging neck breaker)!! He makes a cover... 1... 2.. and Thames pushes him off, still plenty of fight left.*

Rockwell: That's vintage Vargas, always willing to take advantage if the option is there...

Hood: Thames should have ducked. It's not Vargas' fault that the ref got in the way.

Rockwell: "Thames should have ducked". I'm glad we pay for such insightful commentary, Hood...

*Vargas has Thames up now, applying a headlock to really wrench at Thames' neck. He is grinning as he does so, believing he's fully in control. But Thames manages to push Vargas off of him, sending him into the ropes. As Vargas comes back, Thames drops a shoulder, knocking Vargas to the mat!! Vargas stares up from the canvas, shocked at what just happened. Thames stands over him, ready to go. Vargas hops up, pissed that anyone would do that to the Confederate Icon. He points to Thames, telling him it's coming again, and he runs to the ropes. He comes back, but not for a shoulder block. Instead, Vargas goes for a clothesline, but Thames ducks under it, having sensed that Vargas wasn't repeating himself. As Vargas returns, Thames catches him, spinning into a powerslam!! He covers the veteran as the ref gets on the mat... 1... 2.. and Vargas kicks out! Thames immediately is on the attack, twisting Vargas over and applying a tight kneeling armbar! Vargas curses loudly as the ref checks on him.*

Rockwell: That's the same move Thames used to pop that mugger's shoulder out of its socket!

Hood: Shit! He's going to put Vargas back on the shelf before his first beer is even finished!

*Vargas fights towards the ropes, using every inch of his long reach to stretch towards it with his free arm. Thames does his best to keep the hold locked in, but Vargas finally makes it out, grabbing the lowest rope to save himself! The ref calls for the break, with Thames quickly doing so. He pulls Vargas up, getting behind him and taking him over with a snap Dragon Suplex!! Vargas tries to bounce back up, but Thames immediately takes him over with a second snap Dragon Suplex! He then makes the cover... 1... 2... Vargas kicks free! Thames gets up again, bringing Vargas with him. He wants a German suplex, but Vargas claws at his fingers, managing to pry them apart. This allows Vargas to slip around Thames and deliver his own German suplex, tossing Thames away! Both wrestlers stay down for a moment, as the referee looks closely at both men. He watches as Vargas struggles upwards, hurrying over to Thames and catching him on the way up with the Snakeskin DDT!! Vargas covers... 1... 2... but Thames shoots a shoulder up!*

Rockwell: Vargas is working to show us that he hasn't lost a step!

Hood: This guy demolished Sarah Twilight in the first round of the Manifest Destiny 2 Tournament, and he's taking out The Incredible One next Monday!

Rockwell: TIO's going to be tough. Will Vargas be in good enough shape after facing an opponent like this?

Hood: He's Chad Vargas!

Rockwell: That's not an answer...

Hood: It fucking damn well is! CHAD! VARGAS!

*Looking a little upset with the referee that he didn't just count three as expected, Vargas decides to take it out on Thames. He grabs his legs, twisting them around and applying the Figure Four Leglock!! Vargas drops back, stretching Thames' legs out as he works to get the younger wrestler to submit! Thames is fighting it, trying to find a way to drag himself towards the ropes, but Vargas has positioned himself so that he can have the ropes behind him, basically meaning Thames has to go a long way to escape that way. The referee checks on Thames, asking him if he wants to submit, but Thames, in agony, refuses. As the ref is distracted, Vargas reaches back, grabbing at the ropes to get some extra leverage! Thames clearly feels it, yelling out, as Vargas continues using it until the ref turns back, dropping like he wasn't involved in anything shady. The ref is suspicious, but turns back to Thames, so Vargas does it again! But as Thames starts yelling louder again, the ref immediately turns, and this time he catches Vargas! He comes over, threatening the disqualification unless Vargas releases the hold. Angry, Vargas does so, still claiming that he didn't do anything wrong.*

Rockwell: Vargas had Thames in a bad way, but he couldn't resist the ropes nearby!

Hood: He should be able to use them. Being a long-time veteran should have some perks, damn it!

*Vargas is up now, still throwing a few curses at the referee for not recognizing who he is. The ref does, of course, and is making sure to stay out of range just in case. Vargas goes back over to Thames, kicking at him a few times, releasing his anger towards his opponent. He gets over Thames' back as he's on all fours, starting to slap the back of his head! He does it a couple more times in the ultimate display of disrespect... and Thames suddenly pushes upwards, standing up with Vargas sitting on his shoulders in an electric chair!! Vargas, his hands outstretched, tries to ask for a time out, and Thames seems to agree, throwing Vargas off his shoulders and sending him forward! Vargas lands on his feet, off-balance, and manages to turn around... right as Thames leaps forward and nails him with LIGHTS OUT (Standing Roundhouse Kick To Head)!!! Vargas collapses to the canvas, his legs bent, as Thames drops onto him for the cover... 1... 2... No! Vargas kicks out!*

Rockwell: Thames may not be as much of a veteran as Vargas, but he's beaten some major foes here in the GCWA!

Hood: That was a sweet move, I'll give you that. But it still wasn't enough to put down Chad Vargas!

Rockwell: Yet, Hood. Yet.

*As Vargas works to get back to his feet, having had his bell rung, Thames moves off to the side, waiting. He comes in as Vargas turns away from him, going for the rolling knee bar into an Anklelock that is known for its results: You Either Tap Or You Break!). But Vargas pulls out of it along the roll-up, managing to get free before he's in a compromised situation. Both jump up, with Vargas getting the upper hand by stepping in and getting a sambo suplex! As Thames tries to get up, hurting, Vargas steps in once more, this time getting a t-bone suplex! Vargas then rolls over, making the cover... 1... 2... and Thames still manages to kick out. Vargas pushes off the mat, shaking his head at having to continue to beat up Thames. He drags Thames up by the head, giving him a smack across the face, before setting him up for The Stroke!! But Thames reverses out of it, twisting Vargas around and hitting the Iconizer (Leg-assisted neckbreaker)!!! Thames can't make the cover, though, as both men are down.*

Rockwell: Tremendous reversal from Thames there!

Hood: Why doesn't he just let Vargas beat him?

Rockwell: A victory here would catapult Vargas in the upper tier, Hood! He wants that badly!

*The two wrestlers drag themselves up. Vargas tries to strike first with a discus punch, but Thames ducks under it. He grabs Vargas from behind, trying to take him down into All It Takes IS Five Seconds (Anaconda Vice)!! But Vargas fights him off with a couple of elbows and spins around, kicking him in the gut. He steps up, grabbing Thames on the side, and goes for The Stroke again! No, Thames grabs the ropes to keep from falling, and Vargas hits the ground instead! Thames recovers, turning towards the rising Vargas and leaps, going for LIGHTS OUT once again! But Vargas blocks it with a shoulder, sacrificing his arm to take the brunt of the blow! He snaps out a shot to Thames' thigh, getting awfully close to a low blow, and Thames falls back against the ropes, groaning. Seeing this, Vargas steps up again and pulls Thames away, and this time he manages to drop him with The Stroke!!! Vargas covers... 1... 2... 3!!!!*

Minos: Here's your winner... "The Confederate Icon" Chad Vargas!!

Hood: There's the ending I expected!

Rockwell: I thought Thames was damn close to the upset, Hood. But Vargas' experience really helped him out in the end there.

Hood: The only credit I'll give is that this match went far longer than I expected.

Rockwell: Now the only issue for Vargas is if he's going to jail...

*Vargas has gotten back up, winded but triumphant. He acts as if this was all he expected, making his way out of the ring. Thames is sitting up there, disappointed but nodding to the referee that he's okay. The camera focuses once more on Vargas before cutting out and taking us to commercial..*

*"Body Count Is In The House" by Body Count starts to rattle out over the arena. The black curtain snaps open suddenly as the massive, in terms of weight not height, Dr. Baad steps through the curtain wearing a black t-shirt which has the arms and sides removed, his black wrestling trunks and of course an afro pick in his hair. To his right is none other than the 'Manager of Wrestlers' Christopher J. Wrigley, who is wearing his normal suit and tie, is clutching his briefcase with both arms in an attempt to avoid having any of the fans try to reach out and touch him. The duo make their way towards the ring, Wrigley threatening to sue anyone who touches him and Dr. Baad just glaring towards the ring.*

Rockwell: We weren't expecting this, but apparently Dr. Baad and Christopher J Wrigley have something to say tonight...

Hood: The way Dr. Baad's been destroying people left and right, I have no problems with them saying whatever they want!

*Wrigley gets a mic, turning and opening his briefcase to pull out a single object: The Golden Opportunity contract that Dr. Baad won at Blood on the Battlefield V.*

WRIGLEY: "I have here the contract that everyone wants, and that my client has. The Golden Opportunity. Three men opposed us at the pay-per-view, and three were left beaten. None have been able to stand up to my masterpiece!"

*The fans, not usually fans of managers talking, give some boos to voice their displeasure. Wrigley doesn't care, continuing his speech.*

WRIGLEY: "I said my client is coming after the North American championship, and I told you that he would be calling his shot once he's 100 percent. Well, that time is coming sooner than you would ever think. This is the baddest man on the planet, a man who can defeat anyone on any given night, and soon, PerZag, you will be face to face with your nightma..."

"I wanna be Jekyll but I'm always fucking Hyde!"

*Wrigley is suddenly interrupted when "Jekyll & Hyde" by Five Finger Death Punch begins to play. The fans turn to the entryway, where strobe lights flash. The Reason leads The Empty out from behind the cortain, the former stoic yet buzzing with sadistic glee.*

Hood: First Dr. Baad, then The Empty? What's going on tonight??

Rockwell: These were two of the fiercest fighters in that Steel Cage match at Blood on the Battlefield! It could have been The Empty standing there with that contract if it wasn't for Brady Vega!

*The Reason has his own mic, smiling towards the ring.*

The Reason: You speak of defeating anyone, but you never defeated The Empty. You never beat him. You cowered from him, as well you should, because everything becomes broken when they try to stand up to The Empty. Where is your courage now? You say you can stop him? You just need to put your Golden Opportunity on the line, and The Empty will see you now.

Rockwell: The Reason is laying down a challenge!

Hood: Wrigley needs to quickly nip this in the bud and shut it down...

*Wrigley has already turned to Dr. Baad, trying to calm him down. But Dr. Baad pushes him aside and waves The Empty on, apparently agreeing to the terms! The Reason turns to The Empty and nods, with The Empty immediately heading for the ring as if released from a prison. He steps up and through the ropes, where he is immediately met by Dr. Baad, with the two men slugging it out!!*

Rockwell: Two of the strongest men in the GCWA are going at it!!

Hood: This can't be official, can it??

*A referee is seen running down the aisle. Wrigley tries to stop him, telling him to hold on, but the referee pushes past him and slides into the ring. He gets up, seeing the fight still ongoing, and signals for the bell!!!*

Golden Opportunity Match
Dr. Baad (3-0) vs. The Empty (4-2)

Rockwell: Does that answer your question, Hood?

Hood: Holy shit!

*Dr. Baad and The Empty are still brawling, with The Empty landing a few punches to Dr. Baad's side, targeting the still-healing wounds he gained from Blood on the Battlefield V. That allows The Empty to take over, shooting Dr. Baad into the ropes, then catching him on the return with a Black Hole Slam!! He goes for the pin, but Dr. Baad kicks out at 1, refusing to stay down. The Empty rises back up, dragging Dr. Baad with him, and takes him into the corner, savagely beating away on him. The referee, still out of breath from his sprint, just watches, not wanting to get between these two. Dr. Baad suddenly manages a reversal, getting The Empty in the corner instead, and fires away at his ribs, doing his best to shatter them! The fans are loving it, even as Dr. Baad pulls The Empty out of the corner and locks onto him, giving the monster a release belly-to-belly suplex!! The Empty crashes on the mat, but is immediately starting to rise, even as Dr. Baad gets up to go after him once again.*

Rockwell: Nobody's been able to stop Dr. Baad yet, but at the same time, I don't think anyone's ever put down The Empty!

Hood: Dr. Baad's best chance is to go for a countout or disqualification, right? So he keeps the Golden Opportunity?

Rockwell: I don't know that the same rules for titles applies to a contract, Hood. It might be winner takes all.

Hood: This is why Wrigley should have been allowed to put together the rules to follow in this one!

*Wrigley is watching from one side of the ring, looking nervous for his client. On the other side, The Reason just seems to be enjoying the mayhem. He even seems to enjoy seeing Dr. Baad slugging away on The Empty, putting him into the ropes. Dr. Baad steps back, getting some room before running forward and clotheslining The Empty over the top!! The Empty lands on his feet, however, and reaches under the bottom rope, grabbing Dr. Baad's feet and dragging him out of the ring!! He grabs Dr. Baad by the throat, choking away at him as Dr. Baad tries to pry the fingers away. The referee is already counting, but he's taking his time, again not wanting to anger either man. Dr. Baad finally gets free with a knee to the gut, gasping for air for a moment as he steps away. The Empty rises back up, coming back at him, but Dr. Baad trips The Empty up, sending him falling into the guardrail!! The fans nearby scramble to get back, not wanting any part of this, as Dr. Baad puts his leg on the back of The Empty's head, trying to force him into the railing. The Empty, though, pushes back up, slowly rising in spite of Dr. Baad's weight on his neck!*

Hood: I think Mr. Barrows needs to make an executive decision here! These guys might kill each other!

Rockwell: Didn't he already make the call by starting the match?

Hood: Well, for God's sake, Jonathan, rethink it!!

*The Empty is back on his feet now, with Dr. Baad trying to force him back into the railing, leaning him backwards. But The Empty reaches up and goes to the neck of Dr. Baad, applying a nerve hold!!! Dr. Baad shouts out, immediately dropping to his knees as The Empty stands over him, getting a better grip to really dig into the nerves in Dr. Baad's shoulder! He holds the big man down, his eyes showing the severe strain of whatever's going on in his head. The Reason comes from nearby, telling The Empty not to forget the referee. The Empty looks up at the ref, who gulps, having just flashed eight fingers. The Empty releases his hold, pulling Dr. Baad up and immediately taking him to the ropes, rolling him back into the ring. The Empty then climbs up and follows, stepping through the ropes... only to have Dr. Baad back on his feet, slamming his head into The Empty's skull!! He dishes it out again and again, landing several standing headbutts, with it hard to tell who was taking the most damage!*

Rockwell: The immovable object meets the unstoppable force!

Hood: Neither man is backing off! How is either of them still standing??

Rockwell: Not a clue, Hood!

*Dr. Baad finally seems to have control, although it took a lot of headbutts to land. He manages to get The Empty into the corner, pounding away to get him to fall. Finally, The Empty is in a seated position, as Dr. Baad walks away, clearing some sweat from his eyes. He turns back, letting out a small yell before charging and landing a running cannonball in the corner!! The Empty takes it full-on, with the corner almost buckling from so much weight crashing in at once! Dr. Baad comes back up, holding his neck painfully. He grabs at The Empty's foot and drags him out of the corner so that he can make a cover, turning and going off the ropes before hitting a splash! The ref is there... 1... 2.. and The Empty throws Dr. Baad off of him!! Dr. Baad sits back, his eyes wider for a moment as he considers what just happened. He watches as The Empty starts to get up again, then pushes himself up, determined to keep bringing the fight to him.*

Hood: He may have gotten The Empty on his back, but he couldn't keep him there...

Rockwell: We've seen him disqualified and distracted, but no one's been able to keep The Empty's shoulders down for a 3 count yet!

Hood: It might be time to use that pick of yours, Dr. Baad!

*Almost like he heard Hood, Dr. Baad has gotten his afro pick, which was shown to be extremely sharp when it was used during the Steel Cage match. The referee warns Dr. Baad about it, but then backs off when Dr. Baad waves it his way. Dr. Baad then turns and tries to drive it towards The Empty's eyes!!! But The Empty catches the wrist, glaring at Dr. Baad as he straightens up! Dr. Baad tries to fight free with his other hand, but The Empty grabs him around the throat once more, this time lifting and throwing Dr. Baad down with a chokeslam!! The afro pick bounces away, unused, and the referee scrambles to remove it from view. In the meantime, The Empty hauls Dr. Baad back up and shows off his amazing strength, lifting Dr. Baad onto his shoulders! He takes a few steps before spinning into a Death Valley Bomb!!! Upon landing, The Empty hangs on, keeping Dr. Baad in a pinning predicament as the referee drops to count... 1... 2... No! Dr. Baad kicks out in time!*

Hood: I thought that was it! Goodbye Golden Opportunity!

Rockwell: It's easy to talk about how powerful The Empty is, but remember, no one's pinned Dr. Baad either in his time here in the GCWA!

*The Empty has now transitioned to an STO hold with an Iron Claw variation, holding Dr. Baad down as he tries to get the heavyweight to submit. Dr. Baad is fighting it, though, refusing to even listen to the referee as he tries to talk to him. Dr. Baad starts struggling towards the ropes, but the Iron Claw is starting to take its toll! Dr. Baad's eyes slowly close as he struggles against the strain, eventually falling forward towrds the mat. The ref moves in, checking on Dr. Baad's arm once, twice, it stays up! Dr. Baad isn't done, as he again works his way forward, the strain obvious to everyone in the arena. Wrigley is cheering him on, trying to motivate him to keep coming closer, and finally Dr. Baad reaches out and grabs the bottom rope, causing the break! The Empty doesn't appear to hear the referee at first, as he's too intent on the damage he's still inflicting. But he finally lets go of the hold, bringing himself up to consider his next move.*

Rockwell: For a moment, it seemed like the referee was going to decide this one...

Hood: Someone the size of The Empty crushing you with that Iron Claw? I would have tapped out in seconds...

Rockwell: Plus we'd probably need to get you a clean pair of underwear...

*As The Reason is shown again on the outside, enjoying himself immensely, The Empty gets back to his feet. He grabs hold of Dr. Baad, lifting him up and delivering a Hellevator (Vertical suplex side slam)!!! Dr. Baad's in rough shape as The Empty makes another cover... 1... 2... 3, NO! Dr. Baad gets an arm up at the last second! The Empty pulls Dr. Baad back up, relentless in his destruction. He throws Dr. Baad hard over to the corner, sending him crashing into the pads. The Empty then charges, going for a spear! But Dr. Baad performs almost an "Ole" maneuver, twisting around The Empty, who flies past him to go shoulder-first into the ringpost!! The Empty hangs there, not moving, as Dr. Baad takes a knee to try and recover. Wrigley is jumping up and down, warning Dr. Baad by pointing behind him. Dr. Baad turns to see The Empty pulling himself up in the corner. But Dr. Baad immediately gets up and charges forward, nailing The Empty with a Bionic Elbow Smash!! The Empty falls forward, with Dr. Baad getting right next to him and jumping with One Baad Elbow Drop!!! The pin is made... 1... 2... and The Empty again throws Dr. Baad off of him!!*

Rockwell: The Empty just fought off some of Dr. Baad's biggest moves!!

Hood: I swear to you, he was built in some lab somewhere! He's not human!

Rockwell: I don't think it has anything to do with science, Hood...

*Dr. Baad gets back to his feet, worn out but still with some fight left. He waits for The Empty to rise again, then comes in, hitting another Bionic Elbow Smash!! The Empty falls back against the ropes, keeping him from dropping to his back. Dr. Baad then moves in, grabbing The Empty's arm and shooting him to the ropes, preparing for One Baad Landing (Pop-Up Flatliner)!!! He grabs The Empty... and The Empty blocks it, instead catching Dr. Baad with a haymaker that knocks him backwards!! Dr. Baad tries to clear his head, coming forward, but The Empty is there, picking him up and bodily throwing him back into the corner with all his might!! Dr. Baad hits hard, slumping, then tries to recover, but this time The Empty's spear lands!!! Dr. Baad's crunched up in the corner, hurting, with The Empty pulling himself upright once more. The Reason is calling for The Empty to bring this to an end. The Empty steps up, lifting Dr. Baad up onto his shoulders on the turnbuckle. Wrigley looks on, horrified, as The Empty comes off the turnbuckle with Descent Into Madness (Avalanche Death Valley Driver)!!! He makes the pin, holding Dr. Baad's arms down... 1... 2... 3!!!!!*

Minos: Here is your winner... and the NEW holder of the Golden Opportunity Contract... The Empty!!!!

Hood: I don't believe it!

Rockwell: Just like that, the contract changes hands! Nobody saw this coming!

Hood: Man!! If I'm a champ right now, I'm freaking out! Dr. Baad was scary enough, but The Empty coming for you with an open contract??

*The Empty is back on his feet, with The Reason right behind him. He doesn't seem to want to take his eyes off of Dr. Baad, glaring at him as if wanting even more. Wrigley is staying outside, looking utterly disappointed.*

*We come back to a split-screen shot. On one side, in a dark place somewhere in the arena, we see Crash Rodriguez looking off into the distance, imagining the carnage to come. On the other side, we see The Big Bifford taking a big bite out of a sandwich. It's impossible to see from this angle if it's "chicken" or not. Crash turns towards the camera, smacking it to the side. It focuses on the wall, showing the message carved in the wall there:*

"I Am Here"

*Bifford, meanwhile, continues to eat, as the camera pans out slightly, showing Earl The Popcorn Salesman, Kenny, and Boris all staring at each other with murderous intent. Bifford is the only one who seems to be unaware, as he is going through his warm-up meal for the match later. We go back to Hood & Rockwell*

Rockwell: Coming up soon, we get the first bout between Crash and Bifford!

Hood: That one's going to be a battle, you can guarantee it!

Rockwell: But first, it's time for the Outsiders special attraction match!

Hood: Oh, fuck me...

Outsiders United X-Division Title Match
Aaron Warthog(c)(3-13) vs. Anderson Haze (4-4)

*The fans are restless. They want the next match to start. The first few front rows look particularly antsy. Almost to the point of starting a riot. Hood and Rockwell have taken notice.*

Rockwell: Security may have to keep their eyes on that group.

Hood: If they decided to jump the barricade and attack Zybala, I'm all for it.

Rockwell: Why?

Hood: Why not?

*Before Rockwell can retort, the fans break into cheers (especially the front row), as a well dressed, distinguished looking gentleman walks out from behind the curtain. It's Belvedere! He walks towards the ring with microphone in hand, stops to shake the hand of Minos, and enters the ring. A small "Bel-ve-dere" chant breaks out.*

Hood: The voice of OCW is in the house!!!

Rockwell: Why is he here though? Is he trying to usurp Minos?

*Belvedere is about to answer Adrian's question. He raises the microphone and the masses quiet down.*

Belvedere: Ladies and gentlemen! The following match is a special attraction OUTSIDERS match for The United X-Division Championship, and it is scheduled for one fall!!

Front Row Fans: ONE FALL!!

Hood: Oh fuck no...

Belvedere: Introducing first, standing 5'9" and weighing 220 lbs... from Boston, Massachusetts... here is Anderson Haze!!!

*The lights go out for the first part of "Ventus" by Garik Wheeler. Then the electric guitar starts, a bright flash of white light happens then goes to red. Haze walks out with a black t-shirt that says, "Get Hazed!" on his chest. He stands around and looks at the crowd with a grin on his face and charges to the ring. He slides in and runs to the corner and climbs the turnbuckle and puts up the peace sign to the crowd. He makes eye contact with the crowd and talks to a few people then throws his shirt to a fan. Jumps down from the turnbuckle and turns around and walks back and forth waiting for his opponent.*

Rockwell: Anderson Haze looks pumped up tonight. He wants that United X-Division title.

Hood: Why did Mr. Barrows allow this? Can we please keep Zybala's bullshit to his fucking backyard?

Rockwell: Well, this isn't technically a GCWA match. You don't have to be here.

*Without a word, Hood gets up and leaves up the ramp. Rockwell is flabbergasted at this act of unprofessionalism. The fans cheer as Mike Zybala comes running out towards the commentary table. He sits down next to Rockwell and puts on a headset.*

Zybala: I am, of course, the voice of Outsiders, Mike Zybala! I'm joined by, for the first time ever, Adrian Rockwell. Adrian, thank you for joining me at the booth.

Rockwell: (going along with it) Pleasure to be here Mike. Very excited to announce my first Outsiders match.

Zybala: We already have one guy in the ring. Let's go to Belvedere so he can introduce the champion.

Belvedere: And his opponent.... standing 6'1" and weighing 330 lbs... from Charleston, South Carolina... here is your Outsiders United X-Division champion, Aaron Warthog!!

"Everyone knows I'm Hog Wild!"

*Hank Williams Jr starts the intro as the fans all turn to look at the entrance. Aaron Warthog comes out, jutting out his chin on the stage and facing the audience. He holds up his cheap, plastic title high above his head before draping it across his shoulder. Warthog starts down to the ring, strutting down the ramp and high fiving the fans along the way..*

Rockwell: Warthog seems to have some new found swagger about him tonight.

Zybala: That's the swagger of a champion. Adrian. He's tasted gold and he plans on keeping it for a long time.

Rockwell: Or in this case, plastic.

Zybala: In Outsiders, we don't splurge on titles. We use what we can and pass the savings onto the fans. You see those Yardies in the front row? They only paid five bucks a seat!!

*We can hear a loud "OH, COME ON!" from the back, even over the music. Warthog steps in the ring and tries to stare down Haze, patting the plastic championship over his shoulder. Haze looks focused and not intimidated in the least. Belvedere exits the ring, his job done, and Warthog hands him the title. Haze and Warthog look at each other, both daring the other to blink. The fans murmur, because there is no ref in the ring. That doesn't stop the two brawlers from charging at each other and slugging away!*

Rockwell: These two aren't waiting for a ref to get it on!

Zybala: I've actually just been told over my headset that I have to find a ref because Mr. B says this isn't a GCWA match. (grabs a nearby mic) MITCH! QUIT WATCHING AND GET IN THERE!

*A skinny stoner hanging with The Yardies looks around startled. He points to himself and the fans around him cheer. Mitch then hops over the barricade and slides in the ring. He calls for the bell, making the match official! Haze and Warthog are still trading blows, but Warthog's size is giving him a little bit of an advantage. Haze staggers back and Warthog grabs him in a quick side headlock. Mitch gets in close to check if it's a choke hold, and gives the thumbs up. Warthog cranks in the hold, looking quite confident. Haze sets his feet firmly, wraps his arms the best he can around Warthog, and picks him up and drops him with a side suplex! Both men get to their feet quickly. Warthog charges with a clothesline, but Haze ducks and hits Warthog with an Atomic Drop! Warthog stumbles forward, but quickly turns and charges with another clothesline, and is met with the same results. Haze leaps up and drives the champ down with a Bulldog. Warthog is down! Haze rolls him over and makes the pin!

Mitch: One......

Two........ Kickout!!

*Anderson kicks out and shoves Haze off of him. He tries to get to his feet, but Haze starts raining blow after blow onto the back of Warthog.*

Rockwell: Haze isn't letting up for an instant. He really wants that championship!

Zybala: It's like I've always said, "it's not the quality of the title, but the quality of the champion." But don't count out Warthog just yet.

*Haze is still clubbing away on Warthog's back, who is slowly rising. Warthog stands up and pushes Haze away. Haze lunges forward with a punch to the stomach of Warthog, who seems unfazed. Haze delivers a series of midsection kicks to the champ, but Warthog smiles before hitting his own stomach. Trying a different tactic, Haze grabs Warthog's arm and tries to whip him into the ropes, but the bigger man holds firm. Haze tries again but the results are the same. He tries a third time and Warthog reverses it, sending Haze into the ropes. Haze bounces off the ropes and tries for a clothesline, but Warthog ducks. Haze keeps going and bounces off the other ropes. When Haze comes back, Warthog does his best Ricky Steamboat impression and let's a massive chop fly! However, Haze sidesteps and bounces off the ropes again, lunging forward with a superkick! The fan reaction is mixed as Haze catches Warthog right under the chin, making him fall back into the ropes!! Warthog bounces off the ropes and Stampedes (spears) to the mat!! Both wrestlers are down!!!! The fans are trying to rally the men to their feet as they crawl around.*

Zybala: Both guys are giving it their all!!

Rockwell: Who ever gets to his feet first will definitely have the advantage.

Zybala: But would they be able to keep it for long?

Rockwell: Hmmmm...

Zybala: What?

Rockwell: Hood usually has some quip by now.

Zybala: I'd rather call the action then be a douche.

* Warthog is first to his feet and delivers a few hard stomps to Haze. Warthog has a look of Ponder on his face. He looks at Haze, then at the corner, then at Haze again. A smile spreads across the champ's face. He drags Haze in front of the corner and begins to climb the ropes, slowly. He's not used to taking to the sky. When he gets to the top "Real Good Looking Boy" by The Who hits the speakers as Lord Allton rolls out from behind the curtain onto the ramp!! The fans boo as "The Lord of Dashing" holds up his X-Factor title, staring right at Warthog. Warthog stares back and doesn't notice Haze getting to his feet. Haze hits Warthog's legs, causing the champ to slip and crotch himself on the top rope! Haze grabs the champion onto his shoulders and drops Warthog with a Haze Effect! He goes for the cover and Mitch dives in position!*

Mitch: One......

Two......

THREE!!

Belvedere: Your winner, and new Outsiders United X Division Champion, ANDERSON HAZE!!

*There is a mixture of boos and cheers as Mitch gets the plastic belt from Belvedere and hands it to Haze, who holds it high above his head. Zybala takes off the headset without a word and shakes Rockwell's hand. Zybala then walks up the ramp and past a smug looking Alton.*

Rockwell: Haze has earned his first championship! But why did Lord Allton make an appearance? To screw with Zybala once more tonight? .... Oh, right, I'm alone now... someone tell Hood to come back after the break...

*Haze is shown once more holding up his belt, as we head to commercial.*

*We return from commercial to a shot in the backstage area. Chad Vargas, having cleaned himself up, is dressed and heading out the door. He grumbles at a couple of guys that get in his way, snapping at them. Behind him, Treat Cassidy is following behind, apologizing quickly for Vargas. They turn the corner towards the parking lot. That's where he sees Deana Barrows waiting for him. Vargas checks her out, approving as he walks up to her.*

Deana Barrows: Hello, Mr. Vargas. I don't know if we've ever met formally. Deana Barrows, one of the co-owners of the GCWA. Mr. Cassidy, nice to see you again.

*Cassidy nods to her, wondering what's going on. Vargas waits, sensing something is up.*

Deana Barrows: I was wondering if you might have time to discuss potential... future arrangements here in the GCWA?

*Deana smiles her coy smile, pointing over to a nearby conference room. Vargas looks back at Cassidy, who nods quickly, wanting him to go. Vargas, though, looks closer at Cassidy.*

Chad Vargas: Take care of it, Treat.

*Vargas smiles at Deana before turning and leaving. Deana, not thrown off at the least, turns to Cassidy.*

Deana Barrows: After you...

*The two head into the conference room, as we return to ringside.*

Rockwell: What is Deana up to?

Hood: She shouldn't be discussing anything with Cassidy without Jonathan or Hunter present.

Rockwell: Well, she DOES have other duties as one of the co-owners, Hood. She has every right to do things on her own.

Hood: I suppose, but Jonathan still should be informed. Should I call him?

Rockwell: Not now, we have another match coming up! Glad you could rejoin us, by the way...

Hood: I had to bring another chair. No way I was sitting in Zybala's ghost sweat...

Singles Match
The Big Bifford (38-15-2) vs. Crash Rodriguez (2-3-1)

Minos: The next match is scheduled for one fall... coming down the aisle... standing 5'11" and weighing 204 lbs... from Kansas City, Missouri... 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 shaked, 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 made a shocking return at Blood on the Battlefield, basically costing The Big Bifford his chance at regaining the World Championship.

Hood: Yeah, most people don't think of it as a very sane decision to get in Bifford's way.

Rockwell: According to Crash, he's not the "basket case" or "raving psychopath" he once was. He's here to end Bifford's career.

Hood: Many have tried, none have succeeded... other than Ace or Dean closing their feds, that usually worked for a while...

Minos: His opponent... standing 6'4" and weighing 411 lbs... from Phoenix, Arizona... he's a GCWA Hall of Famer and a former 2-time GCWA World Champion... here is The Big Bifford!!

*"Gangsta's Paraidse" by Coolio leads out The Big Bifford, who smiles at the ring, anxious to get started. He's wearing his MAGICAL FLEECE as he marches down the aisle, his bulk not an issue as he goes into the ring.*

Rockwell: I don't know what's going on with Bifford's squad.

Hood: Did you get a Christmas picture from him?

Rockwell: No, I didn't...

Hood: Sad, guess you're not on his list.

Rockwell: So you're saying you got one?

Hood: ...

Rockwell: Okay then, fine, don't respond...

*The Bell Rings.*

Rockwell: Will Bifford get his revenge tonight?

Hood: And will this only be the first of many?

*The Big Bifford doesn't waste any time, as he's clearly still furious at Crash for costing him the World Title. He goes after him in the corner, grabbing at him, but Crash slips away to the side. Bifford turns and grabs at him again, getting hold of Crash's shirt for a second, but he pulls away, throwing strikes at Biffford's head! Bifford shakes them off, though, and swings with a meaty arm, only for Crash to duck underneath and come in, snapping away at Bifford's midsection with more strikes. Bifford angrily grabs his wrist, but Crash answers with his other hand, gouging into Bifford's left eye!! Bifford yells out as Crash digs in, with the referee immediately ordering the break. Crash steps back, smiling as Bifford staggers away, holding a hand over his eye and swiping back and forth, almost hitting the referee with one of the swings! The ref announces himself and moves in, checking on Bifford's eye to see if he can continue. Crash stands to the side, as if considering his options.*

Rockwell: Crash went straight for Bifford's sight!

Hood: Hey, if Bifford can't see you, it's going to be awfully hard to land the Biff End, so I can grant that as a viable strategy...

Rockwell: Viable strategy to try and blind someone?? He might have done real damage!

Hood: Something tells me Crash isn't going to be crying about it.

*Bifford is already pushing the referee away, saying he's fine. He does seem to be favoring his eye still, though, even as he heads towards Crash once again. Crash quickly targets Bifford's left side, swinging away with a few shots that get through his guard, including one that hits him awfully close to that injured eye. Bifford staggers away, and Crash jumps at him from behind, taking Bifford down to the mat with a bulldog variation! He stays on Bifford's head, locking onto it as he hammers away at the larger wrestler, working to keep him down. It's not working, though, as Bifford slowly starts rising anyway, hanging onto Crash as he turns towards the ropes and lifts, throwing Crash over! But Crash lands on the ropes, and as Bifford turns his way, Crash gets a hopping kick from the apron, sending Bifford staggering away. Crash then comes back into the ring and grabs at Bifford, kneeing him repeatedly to continue to try and work him down.*

Rockwell: Crash Rodriguez has really come into this one with a gameplan!

Hood: Blind him, then beat him up. Not exactly rocket science, but usually effective.

Rockwell: But it's not just about that for Crash. He seriously wants to end Bifford's time in the GCWA!

*Bifford swings again at Crash, but he manages to avoid it once again, coming in on the left side and again jabbing his thumb into Bifford's eye!! Bifford stumbles back, grimacing at the pain. Crash appears to be enjoying himself, feeling like he's in full control. He goes off the ropes and comes back, hitting a running knee that knocks Bifford into the ropes. Crash opts to do it again, rebounding and coming back, but this time Bifford suddenly lunges forward, getting a shoulder block that knocks Crash down!! Bifford then jumps, dropping his weight, but Crash quickly rolls out of the way, avoiding disaster. He hops up, rushing at Bifford with an elbow shot, but Bifford lets it glance off of an arm before locking onto Crash, not letting him get away! He lifts the lighter Crash up before he can get away, hitting a sidewalk slam!! Bifford puts an arm on Crash, while using his other arm to continue trying to clear his vision. The ref's there... 1... 2.. and Crash shoves Bifford's arm off of him.*

Rockwell: If Bifford can hang onto Crash, this one might not last very long!

Hood: Yeah, it looks like the heavyweight's getting his sight back. I just hope he doesn't see Crash becoming chicken now...

*Crash is working to get up, rubbing his sore back. But he's still in range, as Bifford gets him with an uppercut to the gut that bends him over. Bifford then locks onto Crash, lifting him up and delivering a double arm DDT! Crash is down again, with Bifford getting back up to his feet. He wipes across his eye, which is still tearing up a little, before going off the ropes and coming back with an elbow drop onto Crash!! He makes the cover... 1... 2... but Crash kicks out! Bifford looks more annoyed, mouthing off to Crash about trying to blind him. He then reaches over, grabbing at Crash's head to try and gouge out Crash's right eye!!! But Crash blocks it with his hands, hanging on, as the referee shouts for both men to stop doing illegal moves, threatening to throw this one out. Bifford glares at the ref, then looks back at Crash, who suddenly snaps a kick up to hit Bifford in the head! Bifford sits back, a little stunned, as Crash yanks himself up. As Bifford tries to rise, Crash grabs his head and snaps down with a DDT, then makes his own cover! 1... 2... but Bifford throws Crash off and rolls to his side.*

Rockwell: Looks like Bifford wouldn't mind leaving Crash Rodriguez blind as well...

Hood: This isn't a hardcore match, but it's already been pretty brutal, hasn't it?

Rockwell: I wonder if The Barrows have a sponsorship with Stantons Eyeglass Frames? We might have some vision issues after this one...

*Both wrestlers are starting to get up now, with Crash running at The Big Bifford and hitting a Slingblade variation! With Bifford down, Crash turns and looks to the corner. The fans seem to love the idea, always interested in wrestlers risking their careers. Crash heads that way, heading up the turnbuckle one step after the other. He gets to the top, looking down at Bifford with disdain. He takes flight, going for a diving headbutt! But Biford rolls to the side in time, with Crash hitting the canvas instead!! Crash rolls away, eventually falling out of the ring, as he holds his head due to the impact. Bifford gets up on his knees and slowly rises, trying to figure out where his opponent went. He finally sees Crash and heads after him, stepping out onto the apron. Bifford then surprisingly jumps off, catching Crash with a double axehandle off the apron!!! Crash goes down hard, but Bifford limps a bit too, the impact having jarred his knees.*

Hood: That's the highest I've seen Bifford jump in quite a while!

Rockwell: You can tell he's wanting to hurt Crash Rodriguez here tonight!

Hood: And obviously the feeling is mutual!

*Bifford shakes out his leg and starts over to where Crash is laying, dragging him up. Crash fights back, though, catching Bifford under the chin with a sharp shot that staggers him. Crash then latches onto Bifford's neck and snaps him down with a twisting neckbreaker, bouncing Bifford's head on the outside mats!! Bifford's down, as Crash slowly gets himself up. He looks to the referee, who's counting away, then turns his view back to Bifford. He turns and walks away, starting to look under the ring curtain! It takes a few searches, but Crash finally finds what he's wanting, pulling a barbed-wire baseball bat out!!! The fans react, with the more hardcore viewers clearly more excited than the old-school ones. Crash turns back to Bifford, but the referee has slid out of the ring, ordering Crash to drop the weapon. Crash doesn't care, pushing him aside, and raises up the bat, but Bifford is able to punch Crash in the gut to stop him, then grabs him and heaves him into the guardrail!! Crash hangs there, even as Bifford looks to clear his head.*

Rockwell: Crash was willing to be disqualified to help take Bifford out!

Hood: I mean, he'd lose, but with the way he's been going to the eyes, Bifford should be glad the referee intervened!

Rockwell: I don't think that Bifford is worried about the referee either, Hood...

*The referee is looking frustrated at not getting either wrestler back into the ring, restarting his count after having it interrupted to stop Crash. Bifford has gone under the ring curtain himself, only partially out of sight since he likely wouldn't fit under there. After a few seconds, Bifford comes back out... carrying a steel chair!!! The referee yells at Bifford to stop, but Bifford isn't listening. He smacks the chair on the ground with a metallic bang, then decides just to leave it laying there. He reaches over and grabs Crash, pulling him in close... preparing to give him The Biff End (Jumping Piledriver) onto the chair on the outside!!! The fans gasp as Bifford goes to lift Crash upside-down, but Crash suddenly breaks free, staggering away, as Bifford drops to his knees! Crash then gets a running kick to Bifford's chest, knocking him down! Crash falls against the apron, breathing heavily, even as the referee is starting to get higher up in the count.*

Rockwell: Thank goodness! Bifford might have killed Crash there!

Hood: And Crash might have sliced Bifford up with the barbed wire! Neither man is a saint here, Adrian!

Rockwell: If we want a conclusion here that doesn't end with a DQ or a countout, these guys need to get away from the weapons!

*Crash manages to get into the ring in time, then goes right back out, restarting the count. He goes over to Bifford, once again considering his barbed wire baseball bat. But before Crash can do anything, Bifford rams Crash forward, into the apron!! Crash folds over, as Bifford steadies himself before grabbing hold of his foe. He rolls Crash back into the ring and follows, working to get up on his hands and knees. Crash once again kicks out from the ground, though, this time catching Bifford in the wrist, causing him to fall to his side! Crash gets back up, not wanting Bifford to regain his balance. He comes forward, dropping a knee onto Bifford to stun him. Crash then turns and heads over to the corner, as if to climb up the turnbuckle. However, he's not going up; instead, he's pulled the pad off, revealing the metal attachment underneath!! The referee sees it, arguing with Crash, wanting him to cover it back up, but Crash is adamant as he goes and grabs Bifford... who runs forward, knocking down the referee and sending both men smashing into the corner!!!*

Rockwell: Ouch! That pad wasn't back in place yet!!

Hood: Who got the worst of it? Crash?

Rockwell: It was hard to tell from impact...

*Both wrestlers have slumped down to the mat, as the referee pulls himself up. He studies both, wondering if he should end this, but decides that the Barrows probably wouldn't be happy with that decision. Instead, he watches as one wrestler starts to pull himself up, using the ropes for leverage. It's The Big Bifford. He stumbles over towards Crash, who looks to be out cold! Bifford drags him away from the ropes, then drops his weight onto the man!! Bifford stays on top as the referee counts... 1... 2... 3!!!!!*

Minos: Here is your winner... The Big Bifford!!!

Hood: Bifford wins!

Rockwell: I think Crash took the full hit into that metal turnbuckle!

Hood: Well, that would do it, for sure...

Rockwell: A surprising ending for this one, but I don't think these two are done, as their series will likely continue next week!

Hood: Bifford's up 1-0!

*Bifford has gotten back to his feet, once again pressing a hand against his eye. Earl The Popcorn Salesman has appeared now, checking on his boss. Bifford nods to him and grabs his towel, putting it against his eye before Earl can stop him. He then winces and tosses the towel away, which apparently might have had some salt or seasoning on it from the popcorn. Earl apologizes, asking a ring attendant to give him a fresh towel, which Bifford uses. In the ring, Crash has surprisingly sat up, clearing his head. He turns and looks back, realizing what must have happened. He then slides out of the ring as Earl continues to assist Bifford.*

Rockwell: This was definitely a setback for Crash, but he put up a good fight against Bifford. We'll have to see what he's got next...

Hood: He's got the bat!!

*Crash has indeed retrieved his barbed wire baseball bat. He comes up on the apron where Bifford is, smiling as he takes a swing... and nails Earl The Popcorn Salesman in the back!!! Earl collapses, yelling out, as Bifford looks up in shock. He glares back at Crash as he jumps back down, now smiling again. Bifford yells at him, telling him he'd better not have damaged Earl's ability to make popcorn. Earl writhes on the mat, with the referee checking on him.*

Rockwell: Earl's been hurt!

Hood: Don't let Boris know!

Rockwell: He's not a wrestler, he should have never been targeted!

*Bifford leans over Earl, still holding the towel to his eye, even as Crash slowly makes his way up the aisle, swinging his barbed wire baseball bat back and forth in front of him. We head to commercial with this sight.*

*A large group of security has arrived at ringside, lined up and waiting after the break.*

Hood: Looks like Tony Savage has a welcoming committee.

Rockwell: This is ridiculous! How could Savage even defend his titles with Vega when he's going to be attacked as soon as he appears?

Hood: Maybe next time, don't lay your hands on one of the co-owners!

GCWA World Tag-Team Titles Match
Tony Savage & Brady Vega(c)(2-0) vs. Enforcer & Justice Orton-Cross(0-0)

Minos: It is now time for our main event... of the evening... this match is scheduled for one fall... and will be for the GCWA Tag-Team Championships of the World!!

*The fans pop, excited at the possibilities tonight. Many are still staring apprehensively at the security reception, however.*

Minos: I have also been informed that this match... will be No Disqualification and No Countout!!

*Another pop, but there are some boos filtered in as well. The more knowledgeable fans know what this means.*

Hood: No rules! That means we're getting a pin or submission tonight!

Rockwell: Damn it! As if the odds weren't already stacked against Savage & Vega!

Minos: Introducing first, the challengers... weighing a combined 401 pounds... here are Justice Orton-Cross and Enforcer!!

*Natural Born Killaz By Ice Cube and Dr. Dre starts playing throughout the arena. Smoke comes from the entrance way. As the smoke is clearing The Enforcer walks through the smoke and looks out at the crowd. The song suddenly switched to Light a Fire, with Justice walking out behind Enforcer with her arms in the air. Her thumb, index finger, and pinky are pointing upwards on both hands. She bends down and straightens up as the pyro goes off. Enforcer walks with her down the aisle, and then get onto the ring apron. Enforcer lifts his arms out to the side, while Justice raises her own, before they enter the ring.*

Hood: Here they are, the Greatest of All Time and The Best in the World!

Rockwell: No doubt, Enforcer & Justice have pretty high opinions of themselves. But so far, Enforcer's backed it up. We'll get to see what Justice brings to the table here tonight.

Hood: Maybe, maybe not. Security might beat down Savage so badly that they just have to pin him...

Minos:Their opponents... weighing a combined 409 lbs... they are the current, reigning, GCWA Tag-Team Champions of the World... Tony Savage and Brady Vega!!!

*"Surf Club" by St. Jhn starts up, as Brady Vega and Britney Anders step out of the back. Vega's wearing one of the GCWA World Tag-Team Titles, while Anders is carrying the other. Vega is super-animated as he approaches the security wave in front of them. They slowly part, letting Vega & Anders through.*

Rockwell: There's Vega, apparently at least partially recovered after his battles with The Empty as of late. But where's Savage?

Hood: Check all of the security guards! He could be any of them! Or maybe... a cameraman...

*Hood turns and looks suspiciously at the cameraman near them, but the balding man turns towards them and smiles, showing a couple of missing teeth. Hood breathes a little easier. We cut backstage once more, showing Jonathan Barrows watching on a monitor.*

Jonathan Barrows: He'll be there any second, troops. Be ready. Remember, just subdue him, we don't need to give him any legal grounds for suing the company...

Tony Savage: Not something I'd ever worry about.

*Jonathan straightens up, his eyes wide as he turns around, seeing Tony Savage standing inside the co-owners' suite!!!*

Rockwell: Savage has infiltrated the suite!!

Hood: Holy shit!! Security, we need security!!!

*Savage grabs Jonathan by the front of his suit, pulling him close as he grins at him. He's dressed similarly to what he wore at Barrows Island, which probably helped him get into the building undetected.*

Tony Savage: Your rental cops are worthless. Nothing stops me when I have a goal, Barrows. Nothing.

Jonathan Barrows: But... I never... I never thought... they'd stop you...

*Jonathan raises up his right hand, showing that he's got a remote of some sort in it. The button on it is now blinking. Savage, seeing it, puts it together quickly. He spins, as the door slams open, with the first apparent mercenary charging into the room!! Savage, though, greets him with One Shot, One Kill (Heart Punch)!!! The mercenary falls to the side, gasping, as the second and third men grab for him. Savage sends one flying into the side of the wall, while the third is given a Superman punch!! More men are coming in, with Savage setting to meet them... and then he shudders and falls to a knee, with Jonathan Barrows standing behind him with the taser gun!!!*

Rockwell: He got tased!!

Hood: Way to go, Mr. Barrows!!

*Savage is trying to stand, but his muscles aren't quite working correctly. The mercenaries still standing get around him, securing his arms. Jonathan sets the gun aside, now smirking.*

Jonathan Barrows: Take him away... and make sure he gets locked away for a while. He's got charges at Barrows Island to answer for, as well as for what he tried to do here. If I know Savage, we're going to find more than a few unconscious security to take care of.

*The mercs drag Savage up, glaring at him. Jonathan steps in, staring deeply at Savage for a moment.*

Jonathan Barrows: Sorry it came to this, Mr. Savage. But I always win in the end.

*They drag Savage out, even as Jonathan goes back to his desk, looking more relaxed than he has in weeks. We return to ringside.*

Rockwell: Wait, what does this mean?? We have a main event waiting!!

Hood: Not with Savage's involvement! The boss is awesome!

Rockwell: But this can't...

*The Bell Rings.*

Rockwell: What? We're actually going through with this??

Hood: Too bad for Vega that his partner lost his mind!

*Brady Vega looks over at the security wave that let him in. They've now closed around the ring, almost forming a "Lumberjack" formation. Anders is angrily shoving at one of them, but they quickly swarm her, making sure she's not a factor in this match. Vega starts in that direction, possibly to leap out and aid her, but Enforcer steps in front of him!! He shakes his head, pointing back at the referee, then says that it's their time now. Vega curses him, pissed that Enforcer's going along with this, but Enforcer just shrugs, as it's all about the victory tonight. He tells Vega he might as well just lay down. Vega answers with a punch to the head, and soon Vega and Enforcer are going at it full-tilt!! Enforcer gets control, pushing Vega into the ropes. He whips Vega across the ring, but Vega uses the ropes and springs backwards, managing to flip over the charging Enforcer! He then grabs Enforcer from behind and gets a backstabber, sending Enforcer away from him!! The fans give a small pop, glad they're getting a match.*

Rockwell: Vega's still fighting!

Hood: He should be running, but I guess Mr. Barrows thought of that, too. There's no escape!

*Vega gets up, looking around at the crowd once more. He's figured out that the odds are stacked against him, but he's never one to care that much about the odds. He smiles down at Enforcer, watching him getting up. Vega then goes over to Enforcer, trying to salvage the contest by locking him into The Gate Keeper's Remorse (Dragon Sleeper into a Grapevine)!!! But Enforcer is nowhere near worn down enough for such a move, and he quickly breaks the hold. Before Vega can readjust, Enforcer turns and picks up the smaller wrestler, tossing him with a Fallaway Slam!! Vega tries to pop back up, but Enforcer gives him a shot to the gut, followed by a belly to belly suplex!! Vega's down, but not for long, as Enforcer comes over and drags him to his corner. He tags in Justice, who waits on the apron as Enforcer lands an atomic drop. Justice then jumps into a springboard bulldog, putting Vega on the mat! She makes a cover, holding on... 1... 2... but Vega kicks out!*

Hood: Vega had one chance, but he blew it!

Rockwell: I will say, the numbers are definitely against him here...

Hood: No, I mean, he should have pleaded right then and there for mercy from The Barrows!

Rockwell: I have trouble seeing any wrestler doing that...

Hood: If they were smart, they would...

*Justice has a crossface submission on Vega now, containing him near the ropes. She works over the co-champion, keeping him straining against the hold. The referee circles them, but Vega isn't about to quit and give up on the gold. He starts to fight up, struggling to bring Justice with him. As he gets close, though, Vega's suddenly swept off his feet from a leg from Justice, who turns and tags in Enforcer. The larger man grabs hold of Vega, easily shooting him into the ropes. Upon Vega's return, Enforcer throws him into the air, landing a pop-up powerbomb!! Vega's laying flat as Enforcer hangs on for the cover... 1... 2... but Vega's still done out of this one yet. Enforcer doesn't seem to mind, as he's enjoying the partnership with Justice. He drags Vega over, tagging her back in, and holds Vega up, even as Justice starts going up the turnbuckle! Justice positions herself confidently, leaping off with a missile dropkick!! She lands it perfectly, sending Vega flying away from them!*

Rockwell: Brady Vega is really taking a ton of punishment!

Hood: The only way this could be worse for him is if The Empty shows up.

Rockwell: I think The Empty is probably still celebrating his Golden Opportunity victory.

*Vega is in bad shape now, crawling over near the ropes. Justice comes over to him, intent on doing all the damage needed to put him away and earn the tag-team straps. She reaches down, grabbing at Vega... who reaches up and latches onto Justice's arm, yanking on it enough to send Justice toppling through the ropes!! Justice catches on the apron before falling to the outside, holding her arm in pain. Vega, meanwhile, struggles back to his feet. Enforcer, seeing it, starts to come into the ring, but Vega runs and lands a knee, knocking him back out of the ring. Vega then turns, looking to leap outside onto Justice! He goes to the ropes for momentum... and crashes down, thanks to one of the security guards grabbing his leg!! Vega gets back up, angrily looking out at who it was, but he doesn't know who in the crowd did it. In the meantime, Justice is back up, sliding into the ring and coming at Vega, taking him down with a sitout facebuster!!*

Rockwell: Even the guards are in on this!

Hood: If only Vega had a partner that could back him up...

Rockwell: Damn it, Hood, you can tell this isn't fair!

*Justice has Vega hanging on the ropes now, pulling him just enough to drop him with a rope-hung DDT! Vega's barely able to roll to his side at this point, taking a lot of punishment. Justice turns and looks at the returning Enforcer, smiling at him. She goes over and tags him before coming back to Vega, pulling him up and giving him Lights Out (RKO)!!! Vega's flat and not moving, but that doesn't appear to be enough for Enforcer. He picks Vega up, looking him in his barely open eyes before locking him up and dropping with the Death Penalty DDT!! Enforcer makes the cover, hanging onto the legs... 1... 2... 3!!!!!*

Minos: Here are your winners, and the NEW GCWA Tag-Team Champions of the World... Justice Orton-Cross and Enforcer!!

Hood: New Champs!

Rockwell: A completely one-sided affair, helped greatly by the ownership of the GCWA!

Hood: I love it! It's good to finally see those belts around different waists!

Rockwell: What a night, folks! We're going to need some time to decompress after this one! We'll see you next time!

*Justice and Enforcer each get handed a Tag-Team Title, raising them up while also raising each other's arms. The fans seem split on the victory, with many starting a "Savage" chant to rebel a little against the attitude. The camera cuts to a shot in the backstage area. We see Duce Jones standing there with his twin brother, Byson Kaliban! The two are discussing what just happened, with Duce laughing at something Byson said. We fade away.*

*The camera shot changes to the co-owners' suite, where we see Jonathan Barrows applauding the title change. He looks very pleased with current events. His phone rings, and he turns, grabbing it off the desk and pressing the answer button.*

Jonathan Barrows: Hello, Joe. Wasn't that marvelous? You can go ahead and tell your staff that they can...

*The voice on the other end gets a little loud for a second, cutting Jonathan off. He leans on the desk.*

Jonathan Barrows: Calm down, I can't understand you... take a deep breath...

*The voice is a little quieter, but still with a lot of anxious energy behind it. Jonathan sits up, listening more intently now.*

Jonathan Barrows: What?? WHAT??

*Jonathan starts pacing, running his free hand through his hair.*

Jonathan Barrows: WHAT DO YOU MEAN HE ESCAPED???

*Barrows suddenly turns, angrily lashing out at the nearby map diagram he had been using earlier. It goes flying away, as Barrows fumes over it. We slowly fade out.*

OOC: And that completes another Friday Night Inferno! Lot of matches this week. Thanks to Mike Zybala, who wrote the Outsiders Title match. Congrats to all the winners! We're going to keep things moving next week, as we're motoring through May!

GCWA Presents - Friday Night Inferno!

LIVE! Sunday, May 22nd, 2020

From the GCWA Arena, Dallas, Texas

Opener

TBD

Mid-Card

Gus DuBray vs. Aaron Warthog

Lord Allton(c) vs. Peter Vaughn, Outsiders X-Factor Title match

Brady Vega vs. PerZag, Non-Title match

The A-List (Dave Branson & Dylan Thomas) vs. Future Shock (Rogue Daniels & Ryot)

The Big Bifford vs. Crash Rodriguez

Tony The Spider(c) vs. Violent, GCWA World Television Title match

Main Event

TBD

Roleplaying will be from Friday, May 15th to Wednesday, May 20th, giving you 6 days to post one roleplay. Remember, each must be in before 12:00am CST to count. You may only post one roleplay per day for the title matches.

Good luck to all!