Friday Night Inferno

GCWA Friday Night Inferno

*What a week! Shortened by a Memorial Day weekend, shortened further by computer & internet problems that saw lots of time wasted. All while we continue to try and recover from the pandemic and watch the city burn in Minneapolis. It's a crazy, crazy time to be alive. It's also during the time of the GCWA, so we'll leave the real world once again and delve into the world of the Global Championship Wrestling Association! Welcome to Friday Night Inferno! It should be a blast!*

*A few seconds after the GCWA logo fades away, we begin to see some footage of some of the shows that have taken place recently..*

Jonathan Barrows: In wrestling, there is always a span of emotions. Sometimes, these emotions... just tend to get out of control...

*We see shots of the brawl between The Big Bifford and Crash Rodriguez, keeping them from having their second official match in their series. The brawl ends with the fall off the stage.*

Jonathan Barrows: Sometimes... they just can't be contained...

*The clips jump to Future Shock attacking Tony The Spider, followed by Tony costing Future Shock their tag-team match in the main event, reclaiming his Television Title.*

Jonathan Barrows: Sometimes... things will just get too intense...

*The ambush of Peter "The Janitor" Vaughn by The A-List is shown, followed by Mike Zybala's attempt at the save. The Uber Man's reappearance helps to even the odds, rescuing the two bloody wrestlers.*

Jonathan Barrows: And sometimes, the emotions stay under the surface... getting ready to release when no one expects it...

*Chad Vargas is seen claiming his spot as the #1 Contender to the GCWA World Heavyweight Title, setting up a classic match between Vargas and the champion, Mack O'Connor.*

Jonathan Barrows: You might say... things are coming to a Crescendo... a Crescendo of The New Era...

*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. The Stroke. 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! Another packed audience is in attendance, showing that the fans aren't bothered by the increase in COVID-19 cases in and around Texas as of late. They're just here for wrestling! We zoom past the screaming audience to join Adrian Rockwell & Hood at ringside.*

Rockwell: We're back once again! Welcome to Friday Night Inferno!

Hood: You know we've had over thirty Infernos since the GCWA returned? A nice streak, I gotta say...

Rockwell: Yes, and the journey continues along! Hopefully, we'll make it to 100 shows in a row!

Hood: Let's not get ahead of ourselves. First off, let's enjoy Inferno #31!

Rockwell: Hell yes! Tonight, we've got a full card of action for you, including many of our champions in action, including Mike Zybala and Mack O'Connor!

Hood: Don't forget the tag champs, Enforcer and Justice Orton-Cross!

Rockwell: Yes, both will be in singles competition as well, in what's going to be a star-studded night!

Singles Match
Gus DuBray (0-3) vs. Justice Orton-Cross (1-0)

Minos: Our first contest is scheduled for one fall... introducing first...standing 6'0" and weighing 205 lbs... from Seattle, Washington... here is Gus "The Departed" DuBray!!

You won't bury me. You won't bury me.
I am free, I will be, I vow.
I'm not dead and gone, I will carry on,
With no fear, I am here, I am now.
I'm not going down, six feet underground

*'Six Feet Under' from Like A Storm brings out Gus DuBray into the arena with smoke behind him. He gets on his knees and he gets up and throws his hood back to the crowd. He goes to the ring and he goes up on the turnbuckle to look at the crowd that hates him.*

Rockwell: DuBray took a quick loss to Aaron Warthog last week, and it almost seemed like that's what he wanted.

Hood: Yeah, well, he does that tonight, I say we don't book him anymore. Who wants to see a guy job for fun?

Rockwell: We don't agree on much, Hood, but we both would rather not waste our time.

Minos: His opponent... standing 5'3" and weighing 126 lbs... from St. Louis, Missouri... here is one-half of the GCWA World Tag-Team Champions... Justice Orton-Cross!!

*Light a Fire begins to play over the pa system and then Justice walks out onto the ramp with her arms in the air. Her thumb, index finger, and pinky would also be point upwards on both hands as well. When the sentence "Let me light a fire in you tonight" plays she bends down a bit then straightens herself back out as pyro goes off. Justice continues to the ring with a smirk on her face before climbing onto the stairs. When she would get half way onto the apron she turned her back to the ropes then did a back flip over them. With both feet on the ground she would go over to each side of the ring smirking as the fans had mixed reactions towards her.*

Rockwell: Justice has been riding high, since winning her first match in the GCWA brought her and Enforcer the GCWA World Tag-Team Titles.

Hood: Hell of a start for a beautiful lady!

Rockwell: At the moment, it's hard to see anyone taking the belts away from them anytime soon, although Duce Jones appears to be interested in challenging them at Crescendo IV.

*The Bell Rings.*

Rockwell: So will we get a five-star classic or a quick squash?

Hood: The way Gus DuBray is standing, I'm thinking the latter.

*DuBray has moved to the center of the ring, turning his back on Justice Orton-Cross. He has his arms outstretched towards the crowd, as if just waiting for the punishment. Justice looks like she feels disrespected by the maneuver, walking up and spinning DuBray around. She slaps him hard across the face, almost as if trying to motivate him. DuBray just stands there, refusing to swing back, looking like he doesn't care about anything. Seeing this angers Justice, as she gives DuBray a boot to the stomach, then grabs his head and drops with a sitout facebuster! DuBray staggers back up, holding his head, as Justice gets back to her feet. She grabs DuBray by the head and runs to the ropes, getting a springboard bulldog!! DuBray is taking a beating, as he once again tries to get back up, only to fall to a drop toe hold from Justice, who's keeping the offense on high speed.*

Hood: Fuck, DuBray's going to get himself killed if he doesn't start fighting back!

Rockwell: I think Justice sees his disinterest as the ultimate insult. She's going to punish him for it.

Hood: And I, for one, approve. Take this guy out!

*Justice has put DuBray into a camel clutch submission at this point, stretching his spine backwards as she works him over. She rubs at his face while doing so, wiping off some of the make-up he has applied. DuBray is taking the pain, but is still refusing to submit. It's hard to tell how much he's enjoying it. Justice shoves him back down, releasing the hold, and gets up, shaking her head. She waits for DuBray to try to rise, which takes more than a few seconds. When DuBray finally struggles up, Justice runs at him, clotheslining him out over the ropes and onto the apron! DuBray almost falls, but Justice grabs his arm, saving him... only to pull him through the ropes by the head, setting him up for an impressive rope-hunt DDT!! DuBray's about out, with Justice not wasting any more of the fans' time. She pulls DuBray up, leaving him standing for a moment before grabbing him and landing Lights Out (RKO)!! She then makes the cover, with the ref set to end it... 1... 2... 3!!!!*

Minos: Here is your winner... Justice Orton-Cross!!

Rockwell: Justice Orton-Cross dominates, staying undefeated in the GCWA!

Hood: Man, I don't want to see DuBray back in a GCWA ring unless he finds his motivation again.

Rockwell: Me neither. He needs to decide if he actually wants a wrestling career or not. It's clear he and Justice are going completely different directions.

*Justice, celebrating, leaves the ring, ignoring what's left of Gus DuBray. She heads up the aisle, smirking at the fans. She gets near the ramp, where she's greeted by Enforcer, who gives her a massive hug. He raises her arm, smiling, as the tag-team champs stand together.*

*A split-screen video plays, showing Rogue Daniels & Ryot of Future Shock arriving in their rental car on one side, while Anderson Haze is shown entering the arena with his ring gear. There's no sign of Tony The Spider, although his laughter can be heard in the background... from somewhere... we fade out.*

*We return backstage to the office of Jonathan Barrows. He is doing whatever he does that keeps this great company up and running. He hears a knock on the door and calls for the person to enter. The door opens and in walks the GCWA X-Division champion Mike Zybala! He is proudly wearing the belt around his waist. He walks up to the desk and gives Barrows a firm handshake.*

Jonathan Barrows: What can I do for you, Mike?

Zybala: Well, Mr. B. As you know, I'm going to be defending my title against Thomas at the next PPV. You may have noticed the horrendous attack The A-List perpetrated on Vaughn last week.

Jonathan Barrows: I am aware.

Zybala: I'm sure you saw that he also busted me open. He officially made this a blood feud and it can only end in one way!

Jonathan Barrows: Let me guess. You want a First Blood Match with Dylan?

*Zybala smiles savagely.*

Zybala: Not at all. I want a Blood Feud Match with Dylan. The rules are simple. No disqualifications or count out. The ref can't stop the match for any reason. You can only win by pinfall or submission AFTER you make your opponent bleed. I'm not talking about a little pin prick either. I'm talking about blood leaking out like a faucet. Once you do that, you can go for a pin or tap out, or the ref can call for the bell. What do you think?

*Barrows considers the fight for a moment, understanding that it could be the very last time these rivals face off.*

Jonathan Barrows: You know what, Mike? It sounds good to me. I think our lawyers will sign off on it as well... with a little persuasion. You're sure about this?

*Zybala nods, clearly excited about the idea.*

Jonathan Barrows: Then we'll make it happen. I wish you the best of luck, Mike. Against The A-List, you'll probably need it...

*Barrows mumbles this last part, but Zybala is likely to have heard it as he goes out the door. Zybala doesn't stop, though, disappearing from sight as Barrows settles in to get more work done.*

Rockwell: A Blood Feud match! I've never heard of it before!

Hood: How could Mr. Barrows accept that without consulting with Dylan Thomas first??

Rockwell: I mean, the champion usually gets to set the stipulations, Hood...

Hood: Not if it means Dylan might be disfigured because of it! Poor Lissie!

Rockwell: If Dylan Thomas wants the X Division Title back around his waist, this is the only way he can do it, Hood.

Handicap Match
The Wrath of the Storm (0-4) vs. The Empty (5-2)

Minos: The next contest is a Handicap match scheduled for one fall... introducing first... weighing a combined 420 lbs... here 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. Lightning comes walking out behind him, scooting his feet to generate more energy. He moves his fingers to show a spark (nothing is seen). The two men strike a pose together before heading to the ring.*

Rockwell: Thunder & Lightning seemed very confident at their chances tonight in a Handicap match against The Empty.

Hood: No one should be confident against The Empty. I don't care if it's 10-on-1, I'm not betting against him.

Rockwell: We'll have to see if hit-and-run attacks work against him here tonight.

Minos: Their opponent... standing 7'0" and weighing 358 lbs... from Parts Best Left Unknown... with The Reason... here is The Empty!!

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

*This is the first line of "Jekyll & Hyde" by Five Finger Death Punch to break the silence before The Reason pushes the curtain out of the way. Strobe lights move and flicker to the beat and guitar riffs of the song. The Reason leads The Empty out from behind the curtain, the former stoic yet buzzing with sadistic glee. The Empty, once seeing the squared circle in front of him, stretches its arms out with a great roaring cry, breathing heavily and menacingly.*

Rockwell: From what we've seen as of late, I can't help but feel sorry for The Empty.

Hood: Sorry for The Empty? Don't you mean sorry for his opponents?

Rockwell: The man being controlled by The Reason is clearly suffering, Hood!

Hood: All I see is the suffering of anyone in the ring with him...

*The Bell Rings.*

Rockwell: Two vs. one, who will walk out?

Hood: Better get some body bags ready...

*The Empty stands in his corner, seething as he looks across the ring. Thunder nods to Lightning and slides out of the ring, leaving Lightning to start charging himself up. He walks towards The Empty, trying to appear brave, although his shaking hand gives him away. The Empty watches as Lightning reaches out, giving The Empty a taste of The Shock (Static Electricity)! There may or may not have been a spark, it's hard to tell, but it obviously had no effect. The Empty responds by grabbing Lightning by the throat, tightening his grip to choke the life out of the man!! From behind, though, Thunder comes back into the ring, rushing at The Empty and hitting him hard in the back of the head! The Empty doesn't even release Lightning, though, instead slowly turning to look back at the stunned Thunder, who goes off the ropes and comes back in, only to be met by a big boot that puts him on the canvas! The Empty then lifts Lightning up, chokeslamming him on top of Thunder!!*

Rockwell: So much for the tactics of Wrath of the Storm...

Hood: It would take ten of them to even make a dent in a guy like The Empty!

*As The Wrath of the Storm try to recover, The Empty drags Lightning up off the pile, immediately applying a Nerve Claw submission! Lightning writhes in pain, even as Thunder pulls himself up. He turns to try and help his brother, letting loose with the Thunder Roar! But the roar, just like the Shock, has little to no effect. The Empty throws Lightning aside, standing up fully to confront the annoying wrestler. Thunder backs off, his arms outstretched for mercy. The Empty has none to give. He throws Thunder into the ropes, then catches him on the way back, delivering a massive Black Hole Slam!! Thunder is down, as The Empty looks over at The Reason, who shakes his head. It's not time to pin the man just yet. The Empty rises back up, turning back towards Lightning... as "Whatever It Takes" by Imagine Dragons begins to play!! The fans turn, surprised, as the North American Champion, PerZag, walks out onto the stage!*

Hood: It's the Sexiest North American Champion on Earth!

Rockwell: What's PerZag doing here? Checking out the competition?

Hood: The Reason has made it obvious that The Empty will be targeting PerZag's title. I guess he's here to watch The Empty in action!

Rockwell: Or he's trying to distract the monster!

*The Empty is now facing PerZag, looking ready to go out after him. But The Reason jumps onto the apron, getting The Empty to focus back on the action. The Empty turns, as Thunder and Lightning both come at him, throwing punches!! They try to drive The Empty back, using the opportunity they've been given. The two brothers run back and hit the ropes, coming forward for a double clothesline... but they can't get The Empty off his feet! The tag-team decides to go for it again, wanting to knock The Empty out of the ring. But as they come back for a second clothesline, The Empty roars and bursts through their attempt, knocking both men down!! The Empty immediately grabs Lighting by the legs, beginning to spin him around with a giant swing! Thunder, seeing this, jumps up and gets on The Empty's back, trying to stop him, but The Empty throws Thunder off, then delivers The Vortex of Doom (giant swing into an Alabama slam) to Lightning!!!*

Rockwell: Ouch, what a landing for Lightning!

Hood: Forget body bags, we need a roadkill scrapper to get him off the canvas. That was nasty!

*With Lightning out of commission, The Empty turns back to a recovering Thunder. To his credit, Thunder doesn't run away, but it's possible that he's just too terrified to move. The Empty grabs him either way, bodily lifting Thunder and driving him back into the nearby corner!! With Thunder trapped, The Empty starts dishing out haymakers, punishing the wrestler in the corner with shot after shot. We're shown PerZag standing on the stage, watching the action with an intense look on his face. Back in the ring, The Empty is carrying the barely conscious Thunder up onto the turnbuckle. He does some more damage up top, choking Thunder out until the referee threatens the disqualification. The Empty only listens to The Reason, though, who tells him to end it. The Empty then lifts Thunder up on top and comes off with the Descent Into Madness (Avalanche Death Valley Driver)!!! Thunder is only slightly twitching on the mat, as The Empty makes the cover... 1... 2... 3!!!!*

Minos: Here is your winner... The Empty!!

Rockwell: Even between the two of them, Thunder & Lightning couldn't stand against the darkness...

Hood: I don't think anyone expected them to. What a force this beast is!

Rockwell: I don't envy PerZag, The Lost Soul, or anyone else who gets in this man's way.

*As the referee checks on Thunder, The Empty moves to the corner, refocusing on PerZag. The Reaons gets up on the apron, smiling- in PerZag's direction. He raises up the Golden Opportunity contract, nodding to PerZag before turning to The Empty and laughing. We cut away.*

*The video cuts to the back, showing The Lost Soul. He's considering what he's just seen, staring at the TV screen where PerZag and The Empty are still being pictured. He looks down at his Golden Opportunity contract, still clutched in his hand. We fade out.*

*Static fills the screen before an ominous voice can be heard speaking over it.*

Voice: The following views expressed are in no way affiliated with the Global Championship Wrestling Association.

*The static blacks out before switching to a black & white shot of Byson Kaliban who smiles sinisterly into the lens.*

Byson Kaliban: Do you feel that?

*The shot flickers a bit but quickly straightens back up.*

Byson Kaliban: The signs are there!

*We switch to a still shot of the officer in Minnesota kneeling on George Floyd's neck, casually with his hands in his pockets.*

Byson Kaliban: Abuse of one's authority in its purest form. I guess he felt that his actions were in compliance with a rule, law or obligation... You know, America's Enforcer... Hmph...

*We are then shown still shots of other victims of police brutality.*

Byson Kaliban: The side of this corporation that it's citizens turn a blind eye to.. It's kinda funny because just a few years ago my very own brother could've been one of those statistics. Merely trying to drive to his next destination to perform in front of fans who are truly oblivious to what's really happening. Genocide..

Byson chuckles again.

Byson Kaliban: I know.. funny right? The usual reaction that's received when the opinion is given. But the real question that people are afraid to ask is what "race" is about to be taken out......?

*Byson takes a moment to stare maniacally into the camera.*

Byson Kaliban: What is the human race for 1200, Alex? Distraction everywhere while the powers that be pull a David Copperfield over the masses.. It's fine though, the world will continue on with the essential as the non-essential suffer.

*The screen flickers.*

Byson Kaliban: Can you feel it?

*We get scenes of unidentified flying objects flying through the skies.*

Byson Kaliban: Your officials practically told you all that "aliens" exist and no one even blinked an eye. But when we define alien, what do we get? Belonging to a foreign country or nation; or how about this one? A foreigner, especially one who is not a neutralized citizen of the country where they are living. Now I'm pretty sure a lot of you fine folks are wondering, what exactly does this have to do with anything.

*Byson goes silent before speaking again.*

Byson Kaliban: Everything! The future is going to be brim and a lot of the masses will be in shock and turmoil. Questions will be on almost every person's tongue as some will understand, while others will be dumbfounded. What currently happens within this corporation, because it is not a country is all a necessary means to an end. Enforcer... Orton-Cross... The two of you should enjoy the luxuries that are afforded to you while they last because in due time that frigid reality that you two have created will shatter...

*The screen explodes in shattered glass as we cut back to ringside*

Rockwell: It looks like we're getting official between these two teams as we head to Crescendo!

Hood: I still say Byson & Duce should have to face some other team first to earn an opportunity...

Rockwell: Duce Jones has more than earned another title shot, Hood, throughout the last year here in the GCWA.

Hood: What has he done for me lately?

Rockwell: What did he ever do for you?

Hood: True. I just don't like the guy.

Rockwell: I noticed. Let's get back to the wrestling!

Non-Title Singles Match
Mack O'Connor (4-0) vs. Peter Vaughn (8-27-1)

Minos: The next match is a Non-Title match scheduled for one fall... introducing first... standing 5'6" and weighing 175 lbs... from Dallas, Texas... here is Peter "The Janitor" Vaughn!!

*The fans start cheering, always loving the underdog, as "Eye of the Tiger" by Survivor begins to play. Peter Vaughn limps out on the stage, carrying his trusty mop. He uses it almost like a crutch to help himself get down the aisle.*

Rockwell: Last week, Vaughn took a tremendous beating from The A-List that needed Zybala & The Uber Man to make the save. It doesn't look like he's fully recovered, Hood.

Hood: Nope, which makes this an absolutely horrible time to be facing the champ! And I'm going to love watching it!

Rockwell: It's not looking like Vaughn's day, but you can never count him out. He has upsets over some of the biggest names in wrestling.

Minos: His opponent... standing 6'3" and weighing 220 lbs... from Brooklyn, New York... here is the reigning, undefeated, Heavyweight Champion of the World... Mack O'Connor!!!

*"Vagabond" by the Greenskeepers hits. Mack O'Connor walks out on the stage and walks directly to the ring, dressed in jeans and a black tank top. The World Title is wrapped around his waist. O'Connor occasionally raises an arm to acknowledge and get a rise out of the fans. He slides into the ring and starts pacing in his corner. He doesn’t talk trash to his opponent but he makes sure to stare them down, letting them know he means business.*

Rockwell: O'Connor didn't seem too thrilled he had a match this week, until he learned that the bars have reopened here in Dallas.

Hood: Texas is moving forward! We're getting back to normal!

Rockwell: Somehow I don't think it'll ever be 'normal' again...

*The Bell Rings.*

Rockwell: Are we ready for some Masculine Man Action?

Hood: Don't ever say that again...

Rockwell: Yeah, I hated it immediately. I blame that bartender O'Connor was talking to.

Hood: I'm just going to pretend I never heard it and move on... back to normal!

*O'Connor has stepped forward, sizing up his competition. Vaughn is leaning on the turnbuckle, clearly still in pain from his various injuries he accrued last week. But the man is still a fighter no matter what else you say about him. The Janitor pulls himself up and starts forward, refusing to back down from the World Champion. O'Connor doesn't seem so sure, asking Vaughn if he's good to actually wrestle here. He seems more than willing for Vaughn to just lay down and let O'Connor pin him. But Vaughn would never do that. He fires himself up, jumping up to lock up with O'Connor... who easily throws him backwards, causing Vaughn to do a roll back into the corner! Vaughn pulls himself up with the ropes, as O'Connor shrugs his direction. Vaughn takes a deep breath and charges forward again, locking up with O'Connor... who turns on the charge and shoves Vaughn, sending him flying into the opposite corner!! As Vaughn stumbles back out, off-balance, O'Connor catches him with a spinning powerslam, driving him into the canvas!*

Hood: At least O'Connor gave him a chance. That's more than Vaughn deserved.

Rockwell: Nobody wants to just lay down and get pinned, Hood.

Hood: I would do it all the time, if it meant I could get all that sweet wrestling money without getting injured!

Rockwell: Okay, no actual WRESTLER would just lay down and get pinned...

*Vaughn is trying to get up, but he's clearly had some damage done to his already hurting ribs. O'Connor doesn't bother to wait on him this time, instead coming in and punching away at The Janitor. He backs him into the corner, landing some more shots, before shooting Vaughn in the opposite direction. Once again, Vaughn hits the corner hard enough to send him bouncing back out, where O'Connor meets him with a running spear!! The Janitor is down again, taking a beating from the World Champion. O'Connor gets up, dusting himself off. He looks ready to get back to the bar and enjoy a nice, cold beer. Vaughn struggles to get to his feet, gasping, as O'Connor moves in. The Janitor can't get away, as O'Connor locks him up with both arms and takes him in the air for the Claymore (Rock Bottom)!!! The impact is huge, with the fans cheering in spite of their love of the underdog. It's not every day you get to see O'Connor take someone down. O'Connor makes the cover, with the referee moving in... 1... 2... 3!!!!*

Minos: Here is your winner... Mack O'Connor!!!

Hood: Short and sweet! Too short, really. He could have beaten up Vaughn a little more.

Rockwell: I'm sure Mack has better things to do, including beginning to prepare for the challenge of Chad Vargas at Crescendo!

Hood: As for Vaughn, maybe he ought to take a week off... or a month... or...

Rockwell: I'll agree he needs to heal, but that's it, Hood.

*O'Connor barely looks like he broke a sweat. He gets his World Title back from the timekeeper and immediately starts to make his way out, leaving the damaged Peter Vaughn behind to try and pull himself back together in the ring.*

*We return to Jonathan Barrows' office suite, where he's still apparently hard at work. He keeps looking over at the monitor nearby, though, knowing that the Outsiders match is coming up next. As Jonathan glances away, the door opens, and The Lost Soul walks in. His Golden Opportunity contract is clearly in hand, catching Jonathan's attention.*

Jonathan Barrows: Good evening, TLS. Thank you for stopping by.

*The Lost Soul doesn't say anything, simply staring at Barrows.*

Jonathan Barrows: Nice of you to bring the Golden Opportunity. I wanted to ask you about that. As you may have noticed, The Empty is cashing in his opportunity to face PerZag for the North American Title at Crescendo. You, however, have yet to give me your decision. You have plenty of choices right now, you know, and they don't have to be at the PPV.

*Jonathan smiles, gesturing for The Lost Soul to take a seat. He doesn't, staying standing, which seems to annoy Barrows.*

Jonathan Barrows: Look, there's your 'friend', PerZag. We can set you up against him as well. Or you could take on Mike Zybala, or get a partner and go after Enforcer & Justice. You could even have a battle with Tony The Spider. What a match that would be, huh? Tony The Spider vs. The Lost Soul?

*The Lost Soul stays silent, which is starting to unnerve Jonathan Barrows a little bit.*

Jonathan Barrows: I'm really going to need a decision from you, TLS. What would you like to do?

The Lost Soul: .... I don't know.

Jonathan Barrows: You... don't know? I mean... okay. You don't know. I don't want to pressure you, I know that contract has some more life to it. But I figured, the way you've been hanging out with PerZag...

The Lost Soul: The match between PerZag and The Empty... I want to be the special referee.

*This announcement surprises Barrows, who sits back at his desk. He studies TLS' masked face for several moments before responding.*

Jonathan Barrows: But would you help PerZag? Or The Empty?

*There is no response from The Lost Soul, which seems to intrigue the co-owner. He thinks it over.*

Jonathan Barrows: Tell you what, TLS. I'll make this a little sporting. You saw The Empty win a Handicap match earlier tonight. Well, why don't we book that match for you next week? The Lost Soul vs. The Wrath of the Storm? If you win, which I'm sure you can do, you get to be special referee. If you lose, you have to give me an immediate decision on the Golden Opportunity. Deal?

*Barrows extends his hand, leaving it hanging there as The Lost Soul considers it. TLS doesn't shake the hand, instead turning towards the door. Barrows slowly lowers it, looking disappointed. The Lost Soul then turns before leaving the room.*

The Lost Soul: Deal.

*The Lost Soul departs, slamming the door behind him. Barrows sits back, thinking it over, as he turns his attention back to the monitor in his office and we go back to ringside.*

Rockwell: Another handicap match next week?

Hood: The only reason TLS would want to be a ref is to screw over PerZag! He's got it in for the guy!

Rockwell: Didn't The Empty viciously attack The Lost Soul last week, though?

Hood: True. He'll probably want to make it hell for both of them!

Rockwell: It's a surprising announcement, but we'll see what comes of it next week!

Handicap Match
Guy Cashe (0-0) & Chad Vargas (8-6) vs. Corey Brown (0-0)

*Belvedere and Mitch make their way to the ring and the fans know what time it is! Outsiders Time, baby! Hood, knowing that there will be no A-List involvement, gets up and leaves the announce table. Zybala runs out from the back and once again joins Rockwell. *

Zybala: Welcome ladies and gentlemen to another Outsiders special attraction match. I'm Mike Zybala, and to my right is Adrian Rockwell.

Rockwell: Pleasure to be here, Mike. It's always nice to get a break from Hood. Plus I enjoy the eccentric style that Outsiders brings.

Zybala: This match will have that style in spades. My resources tell me that "The Confederate Icon" Chad Vargas specially requested this match to be an Outsiders event. Let's go to Belvedere to get things started.

Belvedere: The following match is a Outsiders special attraction handicapped match, and is scheduled for one fall!

Front Row Yardies: ONE FALL!!

Belvedere: Coming to the ring first, with no specific info, Corey Brown!

*"Gin and Juice" by Snoop Dogg plays and your stereotypical gangsta white trash looking dude walks out. He has a cocky look of confidence on his face like he's better than everyone. Attached to his arm is the most fugly looking skinny white chick you've ever seen. Do you know those white girls that swear they're Hispanic, although her entire past and present bloodline is white as rice? That's this ratchet bitch. But Corey finds it hot. The fans boo the pair as they make their way to the ring. They share a kiss before Brown enters the ring and smack talks the fans. The music stops and Belvedere continues.*

Belvedere: And his opponents, introducing first. He comes from Lewiston, Maine, weighing 115 pounds, this is "Welfare Hustle" Guy Cashe!!

*"Niggaz Jump Up" gets played over the speakers and out comes the most ghetto, thug-tastic looking sadness you will ever see in your life. Almost identical to Brown, but Guy Cashe has some modicum of street cred. The smallest amount, but it's there. His win over John E. Depth gave him that small cred. The fans cheer for Cashe, much to everyone's surprise. Compared to Brown, "Welfare Hustle" isn't too bad. Guy waits on the stage and his music stops.*

Belvedere: Introducing Mr. Cashe's partner... making his first Outsiders appearance... standing 6'4" and weighing 240 lbs... from Knoxville, Tennessee... he is "The Confederate Icon" Chad Vargas!!

*The lights dim and the opening chords of Rush's "Working Man" controls the sound system. Vargas walks out and looks at Cashe. Vargas is barely able to contain his laughter but shakes his head and composes himself. The two make their way to the ring. *

Rockwell: This is going to be a mugging. What did this Corey Brown do to Cashe and "The Confederate Icon"?

Zybala: Have you ever met someone who was a complete dumpster fire in life? Like it seemed that they purposely made the wrong decision for every choice in their life, but still acted like they were the greatest thing on God's green earth? Like they could shit their pants in public, and proceed to strut around like the stench will sexually attract anyone and everyone?

Rockwell: I've met some people like that.

Zybala: That's Brown in a nutshell.

Rockwell:........ I hope Confederate Hustle brutalizes him.

*The duo has made their way into the ring as soon as Mitch gets done patting down Brown. Mitch checks Guy and Chad, all clean, and is about to call for the bell when Guy stops him. He walks to the ropes, calling for a microphone, and he gets one. Cashe then turns towards a bemused looking Brown. *

Cashe: Yo, check it nigga. Before we lay the stomps on ya, I just gots to say....(points outside the ring to Brown's lady) That is da ugliest Thot I've ever peeped in my life! I wouldn't fuck her wit Chad's dick, Billy Thomas pushing my hips, and Depth paying me to let him film!

*Cashe tosses the mic out of the ring as the fans react appropriately (OOOOOOOOOOOOH!!!!!!!)! Cashe is looking smug as Brown's face is contorted in anger. He stomps up to Cashe and bumps him with his chest, trying to be intimidating. Cashe backs up a step from the contact and then responds by shoving Brown. Brown stumbles a bit before recovering, then slaps Cashe right in the face as hard as he can (not very hard)!! Cashe staggers back however. This dude isn't that tough. Fighting back tears, Cashe walks up to Brown and slaps him in return! Brown falls to the mat!! Not due to Cashe's strength, but because he's soft as hell. Brown gets back up with hate in his eyes. He slaps Cashe again! Cashe returns with another slap of his own and it is now ON!! The two ghetto-tastic wannabes are slapping and chopping at each other with everything they got, which isn't much! The fans, however, are acting as if these were haymaker shots! *

Zybala: Somewhere, Orange Cassidy is beaming with pride.

Rockwell: They're trying the best they can. That's all we ask.

Zybala: True, but how long can they keep it up? Neither of them look like they do much cardio. Who will tire first?

Rockwell: It better not be Brown for his sake. If Cashe gets tired, he at least has Vargas to tag in. Brown has no one.

* Cashe goes for a wild swing and Brown ducks it! Mostly because he's out of breath and bent over to put his hands on his knees and try to catch his breath. He looks up and sees that Cashe has lost his footing! In a burst of energy, Brown straightens up and clubs Cashe in the back with a forearm! Brown runs out of breath again, doubling over, and not noticing where his shot to Cashe propelled him to. The blow causes Cashe to stumble forward.... right into his corner where Vargas is busting a guy from laughter. This is some funny shit to him. When Guy hits the turnbuckle, Vargas mocks surprise and asks loudly "IS IT MY TURN?" Vargas makes a big show out of it. He pushes Cashe on the mat, then leans over shouting for the hot tag! Vargas is stomping his foot to get the fans to rally behind Cashe! He's stretching his arm out as far as he can while shouting words of encouragement. Vargas is hamming this shit up. Brown, finally catching his breath, looks up and sees Cashe crawling towards Vargas! Brown's eyes widen in fear and dives after Cashe to stop him, but it's too late! With a burst of energy, Cashe pushes himself forward and tags in Vargas! Chad jumps in the ring and is pumped! Brown gets to his feet and tries to get the jump on Vargas, who let's it happen. Brown is hitting Vargas with WEAKASS punches and forearms, and Chad is selling everything! He allows Brown to "beat" him to the mat and Corey is looking cocky as shit! He panders to the booing crowd and walks to the apron to get a kiss from his girl"?", though we don't why he would want to. Brown walks back to Vargas and starts stomping away. *

Rockwell: (playing along) Is this really happening?!? Did Brown somehow get one over on The Confederate Icon?!

Zybala: I wouldn't have believed it if I hadn't seen it with my own eyes, Adrian! We all expected this match to be one sided, but not like this!

* We can hear Zybala snickering a little over the microphone. Brown is still kicking at Vargas, enjoying the boos he receives. The boos turn to cheer though, when Chad starts pushing himself to his hands and knees. Brown panics and starts clubbing Vargas with forearms, but Vargas starts trembling and shaking his arms and fists as he slowly stands up! Brown catches a good right hand to the side of Vargas's jaw, but Chad just shakes it off! Vargas then points at Brown and shouts with the audience "YOU!" Vargas starts rocking Brown with lefts and rights to the amusement and joy of....lets face it, EVERYONE! Brown is staggering as his girl"?" is screeching from ringside. Vargas whips Brown into the ropes and drops him with a big boot on the return! Brown is out as Vargas is posing to the crowd in a way that is reminiscent of a wrestler that will sue if we use his yellow and red name here. But we all know who it is. Vargas then leans against the ropes and comes running at Brown. The crowd cheers, expecting the Leg Drop! Chad leaps in the air.......... and lands on his feet! The crowd boos at the denial of the pay off. Chad bends over and flips off Brown. Vargas then shows Brown what real stomps look like as he lays into the loser with a vicious ferocity! Chad notices that Cashe has finally recovered and gets an idea. He goes over and tags in "Welfare Hustle." They both go over to Brown as Chad tells Cashe to just stand still. Vargas then lifts up Brown and quickly drops him with The Stroke! The crowd pops, but Vargas isn't done. He lifts up Brown and shoves his head between Cashe's legs. Cashe looks around startled as the crowd cheers. He wraps his arms around Brown's waist, lifts him up and drops him with "Anyone Got A Dollar!!" Cashe loses his balance as he drops Brown and stumbles into the ropes. Mitch looks on expectantly as Cashe bounces off the ropes, but he only falls on top of Brown. Vargas then puts a foot on Cashe's back. Mitch makes the count!*

Mitch: One....Two....THREE!!

* The bell is rung as Vargas yanks Cashe to his feet and Mitch raises both of their arms. *

Belvedere: Here are your winners, Got Cashe and Chad Vargas!!

Rockwell: And Vargas logs in his first Outsiders victory in dominant fashion.

Zybala: After the duo hit "Stroking For Dollars" it was a foregone conclusion.

Rockwell: "Stroking For Dollars"?

Zybala: You got a combo name that's better?

Rockwell:..... It looks like the action isn't over yet, Mike!

Zybala: What the hell is Mitch doing?!?

* After letting go of Cashe and Vargas, Mitch has helped Brown to his feet. Instead of helping him out of the ring though, Mitch whips Brown into the ropes and hits a big boot of his own! Like Vargas did, Mitch does a variety of muscle poses before bouncing into the ropes. Mitch runs at Brown and leaps as high as his scrawny, stoned legs will let him. Mitch crashes down on Brown with an Atomic Leg Drop, which gets a huge ovation from the fans! Chad Vargas is besides himself with laughter. Mitch then covers Brown and hooks the leg. Cashe and Vargas look shocked but quickly drop to their knees and make the count, with the fans counting along! *

Vargas/Cashe/Fans: ONE......TWO......THREE!!!

* The bell rings again and this time, Vargas and Cashe raise Mitch's arms. "Real American" starts to play as the fans are loving it. We cut backstage to the office of Johnathan Barrows. He's watching the show on a TV in the corner of the office and looking in disbelief. He picks up his phone and dials a number. *

Jonathan Barrows: Hello. Janice...... Can you please patch me through to legal? I feel we're going to need it.... Thank you....

* Barrows waits on hold while we go to a commercial. *

Tag-Team Match
Tony The Spider & Anderson Haze (0-0) vs. Future Shock (0-1)

Minos: The next match is a tag-team contest scheduled for one fall... introducing first... weighing a combined 356 lbs... here are "The Killswitch" Rogue Daniels and "The Natural" Ryot... Future Shock!!

*I Miss The Misery by Halestorm begins to play, as the lights cut out for the first few seconds. When the song's loud drums kick in, the lights come back on and flash read and white. Ryot slowly walks out onto the stage, looking around and pointing a finger gun towards the ring. In his other hand, he raises up a fanny pack with a smile. After a second, the tune switches to "Kill Your Masters" by Run The Jewels and Rogue Daniels comes out with a serious look on his face. They head for the ring together, entering at the same time and going up on the turnbuckles. Daniels slides a thumb by his throat, while Ryot raises his arms out to both sides for the crowd.*

Rockwell: The war between Future Shock and Tony The Spider has been growing as of late, leading to tonight's contest.

Hood: Yeah, I'm glad Rogue & Ryot got to relax this week with some performance art and gamesmanship.

Rockwell: You mean strip clubs and gambling?

Hood: It's all in how you look at it. I just hope Ryot was able to get his money and car back afterwards.

Minos: Their opponents... first, standing 5'9" and weighing 220 lbs... from Boston, Massachusetts... the Outsiders United X-Division Champion... here is Anderson Haze!!

*The lights go out for the first part of the song. 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 tag-team partner.*

Rockwell: Haze has really been looking forward to his first tag-team match in the GCWA.

Hood: I have to say, I do see potential in Haze. But he shouldn't be excited about teaming with Tony The Spider.

Rockwell: He IS the Television Champion, Hood.

Hood: He's also a dirty, fanny-pack wearing cheat!

Minos: And his tag-team partner... standing 5'6" and weighing 190 lbs... from Smalltown, USA... here is the GCWA Television Champion... Tony The Spider!!

*"The Itsy Bitsy Spider" by The Boogers plays and Tony the Spider makes his way to the ring to a chorus of cheers. He's got the Television Title held in both hands, laughing as he hands it to the timekeeper.*

Rockwell: Tony the Spider was... brief this week in his promo against Future Shock.

Hood: The guy already had brain damage. Being attacked multiple weeks in a row from Future Shock probably just made it worse.

Rockwell: People are still wondering why exactly Tony chose Anderson Haze as his partner tonight, rather than selecting Alice Knight, curt Canon, Jack Puffer, or another member of the Mustard Factory.

Hood: I bet those guys want nothing more to do with him. Tony's probably running out of friends, since no one wants to mess with Rogue & Ryot.

*The Bell Rings.*

Rockwell: So if Future Shock wins tonight, they earn a future title shot against Tony The Spider, but if Tony's team wins, he doesn't have to worry about Rogue & Ryot anymore.

Hood: So who would get the shot? The person who gets the pin?

Rockwell: Maybe so, Hood. That would make sense.

Hood: So what if Anderson Haze gets the pin? Would he deserve the title shot then?

Rockwell: I'd say it'd be good for Tony to give a shot to Haze for his help tonight...

Hood: Tony just wants to hold onto that belt, and the best way to do that is to not defend it against anyone.

*Rogue Daniels has stepped forward for his team, ready to go against whoever comes to meet him. Haze turns to talk to Tony The Spider about their strategy, but Tony has already stepped off the apron and is down on floor level, laughing at something one of the fans has said. Haze shrugs and turns to Daniels, going to meet him. The two wrestlers shift around each other, considering things before locking up. Daniels transfers quickly into a headlock, but Haze immediately lifts Daniels up, trying for an atomic drop! Daniels reverses and lands behind Haze pushing behind him to send them into the ropes, working to come back off with a roll-up. But Haze hangs onto the ropes, as Daniels rolls on his own instead. He jumps up, but Haze has already spun around and comes in with a jumping knee, catching Daniels in the chest! Daniels reels backwards, trying to regain his balance. He comes back, trying for a clothesline, but Haze deflects it into a hip toss, putting Daniels back on the mat!*

Rockwell: Many have Anderson Haze catagorized as a future champion in the GCWA, and he's showing that here tonight!

Hood: What he really needs is a good manager or agent to help him on his journey, someone like Treat Cassidy or The Reason. Well, maybe not the Reason...

Rockwell: Yeah, that would put Haze on a very different career path...

*Haze has Daniels back up now, taking him into a neutral corner and landing several punches to the gut, doubling Daniels over. He then brings Daniels out, dragging him towards his own corner. But as Haze turns, he notices that Tony The Spider has turned away, leaning on the post like he's seeing something in the distance that has to be studied at that very moment. Confused, Haze tries to get closer to him for the tag, but Tony leans further away. Haze pushes Daniels down, turning back to Tony to try and find out what's going on. But Daniels grabs him from behind, yanking him backwards by the trunks into a roll-up! The ref slides in... 1... 2.. and Haze kicks out, avoiding the near-fall! He gets up, but Daniels catches him with a punch to the Adam's apple, taking Haze's wind away from him! He grabs Haze and takes him over to Ryot, tagging in his partner.*

Hood: Did you see that? Tony The Spider just screwed over his partner!

Rockwell: He definitely seemed distracted, but I don't know from what...

Hood: Bullshit! Tony deliberately avoided the tag!

*Tony The Spider is now shown leaning over the ropes, looking over at where Ryot is currently working over Haze in their corner. Ryot tags back in Daniels, with the two men pulling Haze out of the corner, only to then snap him hard backwards into it, smashing his spine against the pads. Daniels then grabs hold of Haze, taking him to the mat with the Anaconda Vice submission!! The referee moves in to check on Haze, making sure he's not ready to give in to the pain. Haze fights against the hold, trying to move his feet closer to the ropes. He manages to get one foot up on them, but Ryot quickly kicks it back off before the referee can see it! On the other side, Tony The Spider can be seen reaching into his fanny pack, searching around for something. Ryot, seeing this, focuses on him, looking angry. But Tony just pulls out a flaming Cheeto and starts eating it. Ryot shakes his head, then looks back as the referee calls for the break. Haze managed to get his foot back up, and this time the referee saw it.*

Hood: That damn fanny pack should be banned!

Rockwell: Didn't Ryot bring one to the ring as well, Hood?

Hood: I'm sure Ryot would be glad to get rid of his if The Barrows would institute a ban, Adrian. They're ugly looking, anyway...

*Daniels tags Ryot back in, with "The Natural" going to work again on Haze. He lands a series of kicks, ending with a leg sweep that puts Haze on the canvas. Ryot then moves to the side, waiting, as Haze starts struggling to get back up. Ryot waits before coming forward, leaping into a V Trigger!! But Haze drops to his back, avoiding the strike, with Ryot stumbling upon the miss. Haze jumps up, grabbing Ryot's head and getting a desperation neckbreaker, putting Ryot down!! The fans cheer as Haze works to clear his head, pulling himself back together. He starts rolling, heading for his corner, where Tony appears to be waiting on him. Ryot struggles up as well, making his way back to Daniels. He tags in Daniels, even as Haze dives for the tag... and Tony pulls his hand back, causing Haze to miss!! Haze tries to get up again, looking angrily at Tony, who is staring at his own hand in apparent confusion. But Daniels is there now, grabbing Haze and taking him over with a German suplex!! He holds on, going for the pin... 1... 2... and Haze gets out of it!*

Hood: You can't deny it that time, Adrian! Tony avoided the tag AGAIN!

Rockwell: You're right, Hood. Tony seems like he doesn't want in this match!

Hood: Did Future Shock get to him that badly that the champ doesn't want to face them?

Rockwell: Who knows what Tony's thinking. Maybe his wife told him not to get hurt, and he's taking it to the extreme...

*Daniels has Haze back in a submission, working him over with a Triangle Choke. On the apron, Tony the Spider doesn't seem too concerned. He is laughing to himself as he goes for another Cheeto. Haze is still refusing to tap out, struggling towards the ropes. The referee watches closely as he makes progress, fighting against the powerful hold. For a moment, it looks like Haze isn't going to make it, as he starts to fade. But he gets one more burst of adrenaline and reaches out, grabbing the ropes! Daniels is forced to break the hold, looking disappointed. He pulls Haze by the leg over to their corner, tagging in Ryot, who immediately springs over the ropes and stomps on Haze's back! He turns and goes to the turnbuckle, going part of the way up before coming off with a moonsault! He lands right on Haze's back, with Ryot having to turn Haze over before the pinfall attempt counts... 1... 2... but Haze kicks out again!*

Hood: I swear, this is turning into our third handicap match of the night!

Rockwell: Haze is trying to survive, but if Tony The Spider doesn't help out, Tony's going to have to fight Future Shock again with his belt on the line!

Hood: You'd think that'd be motivation for the champ!

*Ryot tags back in Daniels, holding up Haze for him. He keeps Haze's arms held, putting him in the perfect position for Daniels' Lights Out (Spinning Headkick)!!! But as Daniels spins, Haze ducks, and Daniels hits Ryot instead!! Ryot falls backwards, as Daniels looks concerned for his partner, checking on him. Haze takes a few moments to recover, struggling to get back up. Daniels, seeing this, comes at Haze with a superkick, but Haze answers with one of his own, with both landing the kicks!!! All three wrestlers are down, as Tony The Spider watches from the side, licking his fingers clean of Cheeto dust. Haze is the first to move, delving deep into his well of energy to start pulling himself towards the corner. He gets closer to Tony, who turns, looking behind him as if having heard his name called. Tony turns back... and Haze lands a superkick on him!!!! Tony falls to the apron, stunned, as Haze angrily reaches through the ropes, officially tagging the champ in!*

Rockwell: Haze just superkicked his own partner!!

Hood: And can you blame him? Tony was going to screw him over one more time!

Rockwell: We'll never know, as that superkick stopped whatever Tony was planning to do!

*Haze drags Tony The Spider back into the ring, still furious about Tony not being willing to come into the match. Rogue Daniels is up now, starting their direction, but Ryot puts out a hand to stop him, wanting to see what happens. Tony turns to Haze, laughing at him, before throwing some Spider Bite punches against him!! But Haze shrugs off the punches, then picks Tony up, spinning him around and dropping him with the Haze Effect (Attitude Adjustment)!!! Tony's out, as Haze rolls out of the ring, fed up. Ryot, smiling, now moves forward with Daniels. He pulls the dazed Tony up, talking trash to him. He turns him towards Daniels, who nails him with Lights Out!!! Tony drops to his knees, with Ryot going off the ropes and charging back into him with RYOT Time (Shining Wizard)!! Tony's out, having taken three finishing maneuvers in succession. Nobody can stand up to hits like that. Ryot turns and watches Haze, who shows no interest in making the save. Daniels, as the legal man, makes the cover... 1... 2... 3!!!!*

Minos: Here are your winners... "The Killswitch" Rogue Daniels and "The Natural" Ryot... Future Shock!!

Hood: Yes! They pinned the champion!

Rockwell: Daniels got the actual cover, does that mean he's the #1 contender now? Or Ryot?

Hood: I say make Tony face them both, either back-to-back or all at once! He deserves it for what he tried to pull tonight!

Rockwell: Anderson Haze tried his best to make his team a winner, but Tony The Spider let him down. A great win for Future Shock, though, setting them up for a championship opportunity!

*As Rogue Daniels & Ryot celebrate in the ring, Anderson Haze can be seen walking up the aisle, still looking frustrated at his tag-team partner ruining his first tag match in the GCWA. Suddenly, though, he stops, as he spots the man walking out of the entryway. It's Hunter Barrows! The fans react, mostly negatively, to seeing the brother of Jonathan Barrows back in the GCWA Arena.*

Rockwell: It's been a while since we've seen Hunter this close to ringside!

Hood: He must be more convinced that Tony Savage isn't going to come back and attack him again...

*Barrows has a mic, raising it up as he looks towards the wrestlers.*

Hunter Barrows: A very nice match, guys! I think the fans enjoyed it, even if Tony... didn't live up to his championship expectations...

*The fans boo, although some are clearly in agreement with Hunter. It's just easier to boo a Barrows than agree with him.*

Hunter Barrows: As you all knew, there was a stipulation that a Television Title shot was on the line in this contest. That means that, with the Future Shock win, we need to have a special announcement. At Crescendo IV, we ARE going to have a Television Title match. It will be Tony The Spider... versus Ryot!

*Ryot raises an arm, looking very pleased.*

Hunter Barrows: ... Versus Rogue Daniels!

*The fans start to react, as Ryot turns to a grinning Daniels. The two men look down on Tony The Spider, liking their chances. But Hunter is not done, turning towards where Anderson Haze is standing.*

Hunter Barrows: ... Versus Anderson Haze!

*The crowd cheers, with Haze looking surprised, followed by excitement. Daniels & Ryot look a little less pleased with the announcement.*

Hunter Barrows: It's going to be a Four-Way match for the GCWA Television Title... and to make it even more 'fair'... let's make it an Elimination match!

*The crowd pops again, as every wrestler reacts except for Tony The Spider, who's still down.*

Rockwell: Wow! A Four-Way Elimination match for the GCWA Television Title!

Hood: Clearly Future Shock has the advantage! They can work together to get rid of Haze and Tony, and then decide between them who gets the belt!

Rockwell: But will the lure of the title cause friction between them?

*Barrows smiles and turns, leaving, his job done. Haze looks more confident now, ready to take on the task of getting another championship. In the ring, Ryot turns and goes back to his corner, retrieving the fanny pack he brought with him. He hefts it in one hand, showing that it's got some weight to it. As Tony The Spider gets up on his hands and knees, trying to figure out what happened, Ryot turns and brings the fanny back down on his back, flooring him once more!! Tony lays there, the fanny pack laying on top of him, as Ryot and Daniels turn and leave the champion laid out. We fade to commercial.*

*The video comes back in the backstage area, where Justice Orton-Cross can be seen taking a seat in the lounge. She looks perfectly content after her easy victory earlier in the night. She gets herself settled in for the next contest, expecting only the best.*

Rockwell: Looks like Justice will be watching her man in battle!

Hood: She made it look easy earlier. We'll see if Enforcer can say the same after a tough challenge in Lucas Thames!

Singles Match
Lucas Thames (5-2) vs. Enforcer (2-1)

Minos: The next match is scheduled for one fall... coming to the ring... 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 spending time with his girlfriend in the shops as of late, as well as working on her father's gym to get it ready for a future reopening.

Hood: What a kiss-up. Just because she got scared because he fought with a mugger.

Rockwell: At least she cares, Hood.

Hood: Caring is overrated. Thames needs to just refocus on his wrestling career. He doesn't need a girl to impress, he's got the GCWA fanbase!

Minos: His opponent... standing 6'4" and weighing 275 lbs... from Brooklyn, New York... he is one-half of the GCWA World Tag-Team Champions... here is 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. Enforcer than walks down to the ring. He walks up the stairs on to the ring apron, looks out at the crowd and lifts his arms out to the side. Enforcer steps through the top and middle ropes. Enforcer walks over to the the opposite ring ropes and lifts his arms out to his side*

Rockwell: Enforcer is surely feeling good after winning the Tag Titles, as well as watching Justice Orton-Cross win earlier tonight.

Hood: I just hope he didn't stay up all night playing online poker. That can be addicting.

Rockwell: You sound like you're speaking from experience.

Hood: I've been through a few 24-hour tournaments before. It's hard to walk away when you're still locked in. Winning or losing, though, the end still feels like a relief.

*The Bell Rings.*

Rockwell: Here we go, two men who could conceivably be on the cusp of a major push in the GCWA!

Hood: Both of these guys deserve singles title shots, you can't deny that. The question is, who will get the chance?

*Thames and Enforcer meet in the center of the ring, neither showing any fear of their opponent. They lock up, jockeying for position, with Enforcer managing to push Thames back into the corner. The ref calls for the break, and Enforcer does it, backing off. He pats his arms, showing off the muscle that's stretching through his skin. Thames nods and comes right back, with the two locking up again. This time, Enforcer pushes Thames back into the ropes, then shoots him off to the other side. As Thames returns, he jumps with a shoulder block, but Enforcer takes the hit, with neither man giving way! Enforcer smiles and wants it again, so Thames hits the ropes and returns with a second shoulder block. Again, no movement, showing the force between the two men is almost equal. Enforcer pounds on his chest and turns, going to the ropes himself for his own shoulder block. But Thames flattens out to let Enforcer jump over him. As Enforcer comes back, Thames readjusts and catches him with a dragon leg whip, putting the big man down! Thames then jumps on top, looking to apply a submission hold, but Enforcer shoves him off and quickly rolls outside to get some breathing room.*

Rockwell: The danger with Lucas Thames is that he can get a move locked on you almost anywhere, and that could be the end of the match.

Hood: I'd rather a guy his size just throw people around, but then, he doesn't quite match Enforcer's strength, does he?

Rockwell: Enforcer did the right thing, getting out of the ring. Now he can regroup, as Thames isn't the type to try a suicide dive.

*The referee has been doing a slow count as Enforcer takes his time getting back into the ring. He looks more annoyed at himself than anything. Thames is waiting patiently as Enforcer steps through the ropes, ready to go. The two larger wrestlers circle each other before locking up again. This time, Enforcer turns it around into a belly-to-back position, but he can't lift Thames, as Thames is already breaking his grip. He twists around, grabbing at Enforcer's arm, trying to take him down with an arm wrench submission! But Enforcer is ready for the attempt to dislocate his shoulder, reaching over quickly and picking Thames bodily up and throwing him with a fallaway slam!! Thames, shook up, starts to rise, but Enforcer is coming back in quickly, kicking Thames in the gut and lifting him in the air again, this time landing a sitout powerbomb!! He makes the cover, hanging onto the legs, as the referee slides in... 1... 2... and Thames kicks out with force, avoiding the loss.*

Rockwell: The power of Enforcer is always impressive! He's making Thames look like a lightweight!

Hood: I bet he easily carries Justice around their house... mmm.... Justice...

Rockwell: Snap out of it, Hood, we've still got a match to complete...

Hood: Did I mention how great it was to see her in action earlier?

*Enforcer has Thames back up now, hammering him with a few forearms across the nose that stun The Icon. He then gets under Thames, easily lifting him onto his shoulders and dropping to his knees to perform a backbreaker! Thames falls off of Enforcer's shoulders, hurting from the impact. Enforcer turns, making another cover... 1... 2... but Thames gets the arm up. Enforcer doesn't waste any words on the referee, instead getting right up with Thames in tow. He lands a couple more blows to the side to soften Thames up before bending him over, setting him for a piledriver! Enforcer gets him up, trying to hold him in place for a few seconds to let the blood rush to his brain. But he waits too long, as Thames shifts his body weight and manages to cause a reversal, flipping the piledriver around so that he's holding up Enforcer instead!! The weight's too much, though, as Thames tilts backwards, with Enforcer getting the counter-reversal to end up on top, scoring the piledriver!! He makes the pin... 1... 2... but somehow Thames kicks out!*

Rockwell: Thames almost got a major reversal there, but he just couldn't hold it!

Hood: You don't see too many powerhouses able to do what those two just did!

Rockwell: Not without breaking a leg or two, that's for sure...

*Thames is hurting, trying to find a way to pull himself back together as Enforcer gets back to his feet. He moves over to the side, watching as Thames starts to get up. As soon as Thames is high enough, Enforcer charges with a spear attempt, but Thames counters with a knee strike that drives Enforcer away. Enforcer shakes it off, turning back and coming at Thames again, but this time Thames catches him and twists into the Iconizer (Leg-Assisted Neckbreaker)!!! Both wrestelrs are down, as Thames gets a moment or two to really recover. They both start getting up at the same time, with Thames turning and seeing Enforcer getting up. He goes towards him, with Enforcer trying a swing but missing, allowing Thames to lift him up with a snap German bridge suplex!! He hangs on, keeping Enforcer's shoulders down... 1... 2... but Enforcer kicks free in time! They both work to get up, with Thames again catching Enforcer, this time with a snap tiger suplex! Another pin... 1... 2... No, Enforcer stays in it!*

Rockwell: Thames is giving right back with the suplexes!

Hood: Can he keep Enforcer down, though? That brute keeps rising back up!

Rockwell: All he's got to do is score three seconds...

*With the referee watching closely, Thames is back up, lining up a shot at Enforcer. He comes in, going for the Lights Out Standing Roundhouse Kick! But Enforcer ducks under it, then steps into Thames, locking him up quickly and delivering a sidewalk slam!! Thames rolls away, hurting, allowing Enforcer to get things back under control. He slowly gets up, flexing his right arm as if trying to work out a painful ache. He quickly grabs hold of Thames, yanking him in close to take him down with a reverse neckbreaker! The fans are loving this one, even as Enforcer gets back to his feet. He looks around, making a decision. He starts to head to the turnbuckle, climbing up to the top! As Enforcer gets there, though, Thames comes staggering after him, shoving him from behind to unbalance him. Thames then goes up with him, throwing a couple of haymakers before locking Enforcer up. The two men struggle for a moment, as Thames wants a superplex. But Enforcer fights him off, landing a headbutt that knocks Thames back to the mat! As Thames gets up, Enforcer leaps, scoring a flying clothesline!! He makes the cover... 1... 2... NO! Thames kicks out at the last moment!*

Rockwell: We're getting a dream contest here tonight!

Hood: Seeing Enforcer can fly is one of the most terrifying things a wrestler can view coming at them, I'd think...

Rockwell: Better that than The Big Bifford.

Hood: Oh, yeah, Bifford would be way scarier...

*Enforcer pulls himself back up, as both wrestlers are starting to experience the exhaustion of a hard-hitting contest. He slowly brings Thames up, wanting to put him away for good. He shoots Thames into the ropes, then catches him on the way back with a spinning spinebuster!! Enforcer makes the cover again, counting along with the ref... 1... 2... again, Thames manages to kick out! Enforcer shows a little emotion with that one, but goes right back to work in bringing Thames up once more. He locks onto Thames' head, teasing the Death Penalty DDT!! But Thames, expecting it, reverses by suplexing Enforcer overhead! Both wrestlers struggle up, with Enforcer trying to get back onto Thames for another move, but Thames twists into it, catching Enforcer and dragging him down with the You Either Tap Or You Break submission (Rolling knee bar/anklelock combination)!!! Enforcer's immediately in trouble, trying to fight through the pain as Thames works over the ankle!*

Rockwell: Thames is going to make Enforcer tap out!!

Hood: Oh, man, that would be a shocker! I can't see Enforcer quit!

Rockwell: It's like the name says, though, he's only got a couple of options available!

*Thames tightens his grip, hanging on as if he wants to take Enforcer's ankle home as a souvenir. The referee stays close to Enforcer's front, checking on him repeatedly to see if he can continue. Enforcer is in horrendous pain, but he shakes his head rapidly at the referee, refusing to give up. Despite the agony, he starts using his powerful arms to pull him towards the ropes, trying to get there to save himself. Thames doesn't lose his cool, keeping the submission as tight as possible to do the most damage. Enforcer sags on the mat at one point, barely able to think through the torture he's under. But he doesn't stop, pulling himself a few inches at a time, until finally, he reaches out with his long arm and manages to touch the ropes, forcing the break!! The fans applaud the effort, even as Thames quickly releases the hold. He sits there, looking at Enforcer with a mixture of respect and frustration at the fact that he wouldn't submit.*

Hood: Enforcer survived!

Rockwell: Maybe, but his ankle can't be in very good shape after that hold.

Hood: No, he'll be walking like a zombie for a little while, most likely...

*The wrestlers both look worn out at this point, but Thames gets up first, looking for a finish. He waits behind Enforcer, possibly setting him up for All It Takes Is Five Seconds (Anaconda Vice)! But as Thames comes in, Enforcer instinctively throws an elbow, knocking him back. Enforcer turns, limping, as he sees Thames falling back into the ropes. As Thames returns, Enforcer catches him, shoving him into the air and landing a pop-up powerbomb!! Enforcer's too hurt to go for the pin afterwards, though, as he reaches down, seeming to loosen the laces on his boots to try and relieve some pressure from the swelling of his ankle. He slowly gets up, still shaking out the leg. As Thames gets up as well, Enforcer gets over to him, trying to double-underhook his arms, but Thames turns it into a back-drop, throwing Enforcer overhead! Enforcer hits and rolls, managing to get right back up after the fall. Thames, not realizing it, takes too long to turn around, with Enforcer jumping onto him and yanking him back into the Omerta Katahajime submission!!! He works to put Thames out, not realizing for a moment that the ref is already calling for the break, since they fell back into the ropes!*

Rockwell: Enforcer almost had it, but they were too close to the side of the ring!

Hood: Damn, that's got to suck! He's only, like, a half-inch under the ropes! A little over a centimeter!

Rockwell: It still counts, no matter how you measure it.

*The hold is broken, with Enforcer pushing Thames off to the side. He grabs at the ropes, slowly pulling himself up and staring at Thames with a mixture of emotions. He looks to the turnbuckle again, limping over there to start on his way up. But the ankle is too sore, keeping Enforcer from going for whatever maneuver he was thinking of. He limps back towards Thames, apparently deciding on a new direction. He grabs at Thames' legs instead, lifting him up into a wheelbarrow positon. He looks for a wheelbarrow facebuster, but Thames counters, flipping them forward into a wheelbarrow victory roll!! The referee dives in... 1... 2... No! Enforcer escapes! Both men leap up, with Enforcer quickly opting for the same tactic by slipping Thames down into a schoolboy pin! 1... 2... Thames kicks free! They leap up, with Enforcer grabbing Thames' head again, wanting the Death Penality DDT! But Thames counters out of it and spins into the Lights Out kick!! Enforcer falls against the ropes and falls to his knees, with Thames quickly jumping over him with an Oklahoma roll!! He's got a tight grip as Enforcer tries to reach for the ropes... 1... 2... 3!!!!*

Minos: Here is your winner... Lucas "The Icon" Thames!!

Rockwell: Thames gets the victory!

Hood: I thought Enforcer got to the ropes!

Rockwell: Not from the angle I saw, Hood. It was a hell of a match, but in the end, Thames was just quick enough to score the victory!

*Thames has already left the ring, putting his hands onto his knees to take a few moments to breathe in some fresh air (at least as fresh as it gets in the GCWA Arena). Enforcer is up, now, commplaining to the referee, having thought he got out of the pin in time. He looks frustrated as he watches Thames depart, having gotten one of his biggest victories in the GCWA so far.*

Singles Match
Ed Houston (13-4-1) vs. Mike Zybala (6-6)

Minos: It is now time for our main event of the evening... this will be a Non-Title match scheduled for one fall... now making his way into the arena... 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, but he doesn't seem willing to do high fives. Instead, he does a few "air fives" in their direction. 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 may have made a significant connection during the Coronavirus epidemic.

Hood: I can't believe he found another person unwilling to be out in the world without protection...

Rockwell: I thought it was rather romantic, to be honest, even if the two of them are 'just friends' at this point.

Hood: Let me ask you this: Houston doesn't want to risk being out in the public without his suit. So why isn't he wrestling in it?

Rockwell: Well, one, it would give him a bit of an unfair advantage, using his suit almost like armor. Two, it would be extremely difficult to pull off exciting moves inside the suit. And three, well, it's not something anyone wants to see.

Hood: All good points. Plus, I bet coming up with a match like that would be tedious.

Rockwell: Indeed.

Minos: His opponent... standing 5'6" and weighing 175 lbs... from Buffalo, New York... he is the GCWA Unified X Division Champion... here is 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 spent time with his wife watching a movie this week. But not just any movie: Ed Houston's movie.

Hood: Yeah, I agree with Zybala's wife. That movie sucked.

Rockwell: A lot of people agreed with you, Hood. But the movie still has a cult following, with many wanting to know if Ed Houston's character actually survived at the end.

Hood: Careful, Adrian, you're venturing into spoiler territory... then again, can you spoil an already bad movie?

*The Bell Rings.*

Rockwell: These two legends have been linked throughout several organizations together. Now they face off once again for our entertainment!

Hood: C'mon... Ed... you... you can do it...

Rockwell: Does that hurt, rooting for Ed Houston?

Hood: Anyone... over... Zybala...

*Houston has already come forward, nodding to the referee as he gives his instructions. Zybala, though, seems to have something on his mind. He starts talking to Houston, apparently having come prepared with an argument as to why there should be a Meteor 3. Houston is immediately shaking his head, giving his answer about how the ending works the way it currently is, and that a sequel could ruin it. Zybala glares at Houston for a moment... and then the lights go out!! Everyone cheers, other than Hood, as we're in pitch black darkness for a few moments. Finally, the lights return, with Houston waiting with his arms raised. But all that's changed is that there's now a poster board set up on an easel inside the ring, with Zybala standing in front of it. On the board, apparently either drawn in or added via glue, are several points to Zybala's argument about why Meteor 3 would be an incredible hit.*

Hood: What is this, a debate? I HATE wrestling debates!

Rockwell: Zybala came prepared to really argue his point tonight, didn't he?

Hood: What's #3? That Zybala can have a part in the movie? Ridiculous!

*The fans are growing a little restless as Houston is still shaking his head. He tells Zybala that the time has passed, wanting to get to wrestling. Zybala, annoyed, points back at his board, but Houston pushes him from behind, causing Zybala to knock the easel over. It falls to the side, with Zybala staring at it. He then springs off the ropes and comes back at Houston with Disrespect (360 spin backhand slap to the face)!!! Houston staggers back, raising one hand up to his face as if debating if that actually just happened. Zybala gets back in his face, pointing a finger, but Houston answers by grabbing the hand and dropping backwards, giving Zybala a monkey flip!! Zybala does a twist in mid-air, though, managing to land on his feet! He spins, setting himself for a superkick, only to find Houston prepared in the same position. The two men stare each other down, as the crowd cheers and the ref gets rid of the easel.*

Hood: Can we finally get to the wrestling now?

Rockwell: Looks like the debate is over, and we're ready to go!

Hood: About damn time!

*The two wrestlers straighten up, neither willing to try a superkick when the other is prepared. They step in at each other instead, locking up, with Houston managing to whip Zybala towards the ropes. He then leapfrogs over Zybala, turning and waiting for him on the return for a hip toss. Zybala again lands on his feet, though, and turns, grabbing Houston and spinning him around. He lifts Houston from behind, tossing him overhead, but Houston readjusts and lands on the heels of his feet, grabbing Zybala and pushing him into the ropes. Zybala rolls back with him, but the pin doesn't work, with Zybala breaking free and getting to his feet first. He goes for a dropkick, with Houston basically going matrix-style to avoid it. Both wrestlers jump up, with Houston charging at Zybala to try and knock him out of the ring. Zybala reverses, no, Houston reverses, and BOTH men topple over the ropes at the same time, landing on the apron! They look around, both a little surprised at what happened, but Houston answers first with a kick to Zybala's gut, followed by a facebuster off the apron to the floor!!!*

Rockwell: What a move from Houston!

Hood: Guess Zybala should have turned the lights out before that happened, huh? Hah!

Rockwell: All that would have done was make you scream like a girl again, Hood...

*Houston has Zybala up outside now, dragging him back towards the ring. He slides Zybala in, then gets up on the apron. As Zybala works to stand up, Houston starts to spring-board upwards. But Zybala steps forward, catching Houston with a shot to the legs that throws him off-balance, causing him to straddle the ropes! Zybala takes a second to clear his head, then turns to Houston, climbing onto the ropes with him. The fans cheer, wondering what's going to happen, as ZYbala and Houston surprisingly balance on the ropes together, before Zybala comes off with a springing Russian leg sweep to the mat below!!! There's a rush from the fans as Zybala makes the first cover of the match, trying to keep Houston down... 1... 2... but Houston manages to kick himself free in time. As Houston flips onto his stomach, though, Zybala immediately transitions into a Crossface submission, pulling Houston's head back as he works to secure the arm!*

Rockwell: Zybala's breaking out the technical wrestling, something you don't always see from the high-flyer.

Hood: He's taunting Houston, too, isn't he? He's sure talking a lot...

Rockwell: I don't think that's taunting... sounds more like bargaining...

*The camera zooms in to try and pick up what Zybala is saying as he continues to crank the submission. He's not asking for Houston to tap out. Instead, he wants him to agree to be in Meteor 3. If he does so, Zybala will release the hold. Houston, though, shouts out "Never!" and starts to fight for the ropes, putting his artistic integrity in front of his own personal well-being. Zybala keeps it locked on, trying to keep the two men in place, but he can't stop Houston as he pushes them both towards the ropes, eventually reaching out and grabbing hold! The referee starts a five count, with a reluctant Zybala finally letting go at the last second. He looks at Houston with almost hopelessness, just not understanding why the Rocketman is being so stubborn about this. Slowly, Zybala gets up, dragging Houston with him. He snaps Houston over with a German suplex, leaving him on the mat as Zybala faces the nearby turnbuckle.*

Rockwell: Zybala is really dead-set on getting that movie made.

Hood: Houston's doing the right thing refusing. The last thing he needs is people being reminded of his film career.

Rockwell: I thought Meteor 2 was a great flick. Who knows? Maybe another movie could propel Houston back to the top of the GCWA?

Hood: So could working with Jonathan Barrows, but you know Houston's too stubborn for that.

*Zybala has gotten to the top of the turnbuckle now, setting himself as he faces the downed Houston. He leaps up in the air, going for a Swanton Bomb! But Houston gets his knees up, jarring Zybala upon landing!! Zybala rolls away, holding the back of his head, as Houston pulls himself upright. He sees Zybala in the right position and charges, catching him with a shining wizard kick! Zybala goes down, with Houston rolling on top of him... 1... 2... but Zybala is able to kick out. Houston immediately gets to his feet, turning and heading over to the turnbuckle. This time Houston goes up, moving quickly. He positions himself and looks out at the rising Zybala, timing things out perfectly. He flies, leaping into a Meteora that takes Zybala back to the canvas in rapid fashion!! The fans cheer, as Houston stays on top for the cover... 1... 2... but Zybala gets his legs up, catching Houston from behind and pulling him backwards into another pinning combination! 1... 2... Houston springs out of it, rolling before grabbing Zybala's legs and flipping over for another cover... 1... 2... Zybala escapes!*

Rockwell: This is what you get when two great veterans get to go at it!

Hood: Hey, you can get enjoyment out of any kind of match. I'm still celebrating the victory of Barry.

Rockwell: Ahhh, Barry. The legend lives on.

Hood: Yes he does!

*The two wrestlers are now back up, exchanging shots as the fans cheer for the fast-paced action. Zybala gets control, taking Houston over with a side slam to the mat. Zybala then contemplates reapplying his submission, only to have Houston shove Zybala off of him, getting quickly to his feet. Houston then comes right at Zybala, going for Houston, We've Got A Problem (Superkick)! But Zybala blocks it, holding onto Houston's leg!! As Houston bounces, trying to keep his balance, Zybala wags a finger at him, as if saying that won't work on him. Zybala then throws the leg aside, spinning Houston around. Zybala then steps in, going for his own Superkick!! But Houston's the one to catch the leg this time, and he immediately drags Zybala down to the mat, turning it into Countdown (Ankle Lock submission)!!!! All of the sudden, Zybala is scrambling against the canvas, trying to pull away as Houston applies his signature submission finisher!!*

Rockwell: This could be it!

Hood: Make him tap out like a ghostly bitch, Houston!

Rockwell: Zybala's almost in the dead center of the ring, so escape is a long way off!

*Zybala is groaning as he hits at the mat with his fist. The referee is there, checking on him, seeing if Zybala's going to tap out. Zybala's only answer is to point up into the air... and the lights go out!! The darkness hits again, and after a few seconds, the lights come back on... and Zybala has moved off to the side, but is still in the Countdown!! Houston somehow transferred with him!! Zybala, shouting, falls back to the mat, as the lights go out again!! We come back to Zybala and Houston now on the outside of the ring, near the crowd... with Zybala STILL in the Countdown!! The referee stares out at them from inside the ring, wondering how they're doing it. Zybala claws at the pads, trying to find purchase, but Houston really has the hold locked in, and he's refusing to let go! The lights go out a third time, with Hood heard openly cursing (and being bleeped out). When they come back, Zybala's now clinging to the ropes up on the turnbuckle, with Houston hanging on from below. The referee, shrugging his shoulders, calls for the break, ending the submission.*

Rockwell: That was bizarre!

Hood: That was Zybala! I don't think I've ever seen him carry someone with him like that before, though!

Rockwell: Houston's known him long enough. Maybe he knows part of the secret of Zybala's mysterious abilities!

*Houston has climbed up on the turnbuckle with Zybala now, punching away at him. He gets Zybala in position and comes off the top with a Spanish Fly, sending both crashing to the mat!! After a few seconds, Houston rolls over, making the cover on Zybala... 1... 2... and somehow Zybala's still in it! Houston sits up in shock, apparently thinking that it was going to be enough. He has the heart of a champion, though, as he drags Zybala closer to the turnbuckle. He goes up top, setting himself for Blastoff (Shooting Star Press)!! Zybala's still down, in perfect position, as Houston pushes off from the top of the turnbuckle. But as Houston comes flying down, Zybala kips up, then launches his Superkick, catching Houston right on the way down!!!! The fans gasp from the impact, as Houston goes crashing to the mat, then slides, falling under the ropes and to the outside! Zybala dives after him, but can't stop his fall, looking extremely frustrated at where Houston ended up.*

Rockwell: If Zybala could have made the pin there, this one would have been over!

Hood: Damn lucky for Houston that the kick was so severe.

Rockwell: Not something you hear every day...

*Zybala slowly rolls out of the ring, going to where Houston fell. He drags Houston up, trying to shift his dead weight around so that he's resting on the apron. As Houston lays there, barely able to stand, Zybala works to get him up into the ring. He rolls Houston in, then starts to follow, climbing onto the apron. He sets himself, springing up and coming down on Houston with a spinning leg drop!! He makes the cover... 1... 2... and Houston manages to kick out! Zybala looks at the referee for confirmation before getting up, dragging Houston with him. He lifts Houston onto his shoulders, wanting the Sound of Silence (Reverse Go To Sleep)!!! But as Zybala starts to throw Houston over for the knee to the head, Houston reverses himself, landing on his feet! He immediately snaps into Houston, We've Got A Problem, scoring a perfect kick!!! Zybala falls, with Houston immediately turning to the ropes and climbing up. He is running on one last burst of adrenaline as he takes flight, coming down with Blastoff right onto his opponent!!! The fans count along as the cover is made... 1... 2... 3!!!!!*

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

Hood: Nice one!

Rockwell: Houston now has a victory over the X Division Champion! What a great contest!

Hood: I just want to see that replay again and again... spliced with Barry pinning Zybala, of course!

Rockwell: What an amazing night of wrestling!

*Houston is helped up by the referee, who raises his arm. He looks down at Zybala, the respect showing in his gaze as he turns to the ropes to start on his way out.*

*We go backstage once more, where Mack O'Connor can be seen, putting all of his stuff together. Treat Cassidy is there as well, waiting on him. They turn to leave, heading for the garage.*

Treat Cassidy: You looked great out there, champ. Now we've just got a couple of sponsorship events to talk about, and then you can hit the bars...

*Treat stops mid-word, as he's got another of his clients in front of him: Chad Vargas. Vargas smirks at O'Connor, taking a moment to eyeball the World Title on his shoulder. Mack shifts it to the other side, grinning back at Vargas.*

Chad Vargas: Mack.

Mack O'Connor: Chad.

*The two stand there, considering the other, as Treat moves to get in-between them.*

Treat Cassidy: Okay, guys, we can talk about this next week, right?

*Vargas laughs under his breath, taking one more look at the GCWA World Title before turning and walking away. O'Connor watches him go, as the intensity between the two is definitely there. We slowly fade out.*

OOC: This one was a rough one, I have to admit. But the show is up, it's still Friday night, and we're good! Thank you to Duce and Zybala for each sending in segments, at least making it a tiny bit easier on me. Also thanks to Zybala for writing the Outsiders match again. One week to go until Crescendo IV! Here's hoping we all make it there alive...

GCWA Presents - Friday Night Inferno!

LIVE! Friday, June 5th, 2020

From the GCWA Arena, Dallas, Texas

Opener

TBD

Mid-Card

The Lost Soul vs. The Wrath of the Storm, Handicap Match

Chad Vargas vs. Aaron Warthog

Duce Jones vs. Gus DuBray

Outsiders Match (?)

Main Event

TBD

Roleplaying will be from Friday, May 29th to Wednesday, June 3rd, 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!