[scene opens to Abbadon walking menacingly through the hallways back stage. He has just left the ring area after attacking his tag partner, Mastema, from behind in the Tag Team Championship match. He walks with purpose and any staff or crew in the hallway cower down or paste themselves to the wall, lest they feel his wrath.]
Jim “The Amp” Johnson: I’m still in shock of what happened during that match.
WarHead: Me too. But where is he going?
[Abbadon reaches a set of wooden, windowless double-doors marked “Storage.” He rips open the door]
JJ: What the--?!?!?
[Sitting, hunched over, presumably unconscious, tied to chair with chains and rope, covered in bruises and welts, is…..Abbadon?]
WH: Two of them!??!
[The standing, unbound Abbadon reaches of and rips the sack of his head, revealing another masked face]
WH: NO WAY!!
JJ: APOLLYON!!! OH MY GOD!!!
[Apollyon wheels over a TV stand. He turns on the TV and slaps Abbadon in the head. Abbadon slowly lifts his head. He looks up at Apollyon, still groggy. Apollyon points over at the TV. Abbadon turns to the TV to see it tuned into the live NRWL show. The screen displays Tommy V. and Marcus celebrating in the ring with their newly won tag team championship belts.]
WH: Well, you know what they say, revenge is a dish best ser—
[While Abbadon is still watching the goings-on on the TV, in quick, deft move, Apollyon delivers a massive boot to Abbadon’s head. Abbadon and the chair spill backwards with a crash.]
JJ: OH MAN!!! A big boot to the side of the face!!
WH: How can you tell it’s the side of his face?
[Abbadon lays motionless. Apollyon picks up the TV and stands over Abbadon. A commotion is heard from behind, and Apollyon turns with the reflexes of a cat, swinging the TV at the sound behind him, which happened to be Mastema! Mastema falls to the ground, holding his head. Apollyon kicks him solidly in the ribs, which makes Mastema instinctively curl up, gasping for air]
WH: Oh, that never feels good.
JJ: Apollyon is wreaking havoc!
[Apollyon looks up, and sees a few paces down the hall, Nick Belhor standing and staring in horror. Nick comes to and takes off running. Apollyon gives chase and quickly catches up and grabs Nick by the collar. He spins Nick around and knees him in the gut, collapsing Nick.]
WH: This does not look good for Nick.
JJ: Apollyon is delivering some payback!
[Apollyon lifts Nick overhead, and gives him the Darkeness Falls through a pile of pallets! Nick lays there motionless in a pile of broken and splintered wood. Apollyon walks back down the hallway towards the exit. As he approaches Mastema, who is on his hands and knees, he picks up metal hand truck, walks up to Mastema, and bashes it over Mastema’s back! Mastema arches his back and contorts his body in pain. Apollyon exits the arena.]
JJ: The Sons of Darkness just got collectively destroyed Apollyon!
WH: Maybe Nick kept the wrong one…
JJ: Either way, the Sons of Darkness got a taste of their own medicine!
[scene fades out]
Wednesday, September 25, 2013
Tuesday, September 24, 2013
Event Results - NRWL Tag Team Championship Tournament
It's been nearly ten years since the NRWL had tag team champions. With so many teams and alliances forming during Season Five, it was obvious that it was time to revive the title belts. Eight teams stepped into the ring for a chance to become champions.
Slamnation - Slam Jackson and Ash
NRWL Champion Bruno Kowalski and Marty Anderson
John Austin Baker and Crawford
Johnny Young and Jacob Washington
The 4 Elements - Tommy Violence and Marcus
Sons of Darkness - Abbadon and Mastema
Storm Harrison and Caleb
SCSF - "Hardcore" Adam and Tornado
The tournament bracket was determined by random selection.
First Round
Johnny Young and Jacob Washington vs. Storm Harrison and Caleb
In an odd twist of fate, Johnny Young found himself in the ring against his two current rivals, Storm Harrison and his bodyguard Caleb. Right from the get go, Johnny Young unleashed an all out assault on his opponents. He was having his way with Storm Harrison until the tag was made to Caleb, who slowed Young's momentum before tagging Harrison back in to pick the bones. Young was late to make a tag to Jacob Washington, creating concern that he may not be a team player in this match.
Washington used his speed advantage to keep the monster Caleb under control. Caleb manages to deliver a vicious powerbomb but Washington's energy keeps him from staying down long. Caleb tagged in Harrison. Harrison and Washington put on an amazing show of skills that proved that Harrison is ready to compete at a high level and Washington is deserving of the praise he receives each and every event.
Although it appeared that Johnny Young was not able to put his personal issues aside earlier in the match, he and Washington began to work really well as a team against the equally well oiled Harrison and Caleb. Caleb has Washington trapped in the ring corner but Washington fights his way out and tags in Young. Johnny Young finds himself in the ring with Storm Harrison and drops his rival with the Slam of the Night and a pin to win the match.
Winners: Johnny Young and Jacob Washington
Slamnation vs. SCSF
It was the new generation versus the legacy as Slam Jackson and Ash stepped into the ring against "Hardcore" Adam (and SCSF legend) and Tornado (son of legendary SCSF wrestler Cyclone). Tornado makes an immediate statement in the match by delivering a big boot to Ash who is standing on the ring apron. Tornado attacks Slam Jackson and completely dominates the early going of the match. "Hardcore" Adam and Tornado show off impressive teamwork, including a combination clothesline/spear on Jackson. Ash is tagged in but "Hardcore" Adam keeps the momentum going for his team.
Tornado shows off an impressive elbow smash on Ash and nearly gets a pinfall. Adam and Tornado keep Ash away from his own corner, preventing a tag. Tornado tries to get Ash to submit to a painful backbreaker submission but Jackson gets in the ring to break it up. Ash manages to tag in Jackson but "Hardcore" Adam delivers two hardcore chokeslams in a row and pins him for the victory.
After the match, there is concern for Slam Jackson's health, but he is able to stand, shake off the cobwebs, and leave the ring under his own power.
Winners: SCSF
John Austin Baker and Crawford vs. Sons of Darkness
The Sons of Darkness intended to inflict harm on anyone who stepped in their way to become tag team champions. Their first roadblock came from the unusual pairing of cousins, clean cut Texan wrestler John Austin Baker and hillbilly Crawford.
Baker started the match for his team but was overpowered by Abbadon. After Mastema tags in, Baker manages to fight back and keep his opponent at bay. After Crawford is tagged in, Mastema regains momentum for his team. Crawford is double teamed by the Sons of Darkness but gets to Baker in time for a tag. Baker is dropped with Darkness Falls by Abbadon but kicks out of a pin after only a one count. Baker tags in Crawford who squares off with Abbadon. Abbadon takes a moment to shove Baker off the ring apron and through the steel steps below.
As the match progressed, John Austin Baker attempted to suplex Mastema but is jabbed in the eye and drops his much larger opponent. Baker responds with a quick neckbreaker followed by an impressive fallaway slam. Baker is stopped when Mastema catches him in Darkness Falls.
Baker is pinned while Abbadon obliterates Crawford outside the ring.
Winners: Sons of Darkness
Bruno Kowalski and Marty Anderson vs. The 4 Elements
Bruno Kowalski wants to add another belt as a companion to his NRWL Championship and picked Marty Anderson as his partner. In their first match, they faced Marcus and Tommy V. of The 4 Elements. Like the first match of the evening, this one had some personal issues fueling the fire. Bruno Kowalski and 4E member Max Destruction have a strained relationship and Marty Anderson injured the other 4E member, Mikey Armstrong.
Bruno and Marcus start the match at an even pace. Marcus sends Bruno outside with a clothesline but Bruno comes back in and does the same to Marcus on the other side of the ring. Anderson and Tommy V. are tagged in. Tommy throws Anderson out of the ring where he is attacked by Marcus. In the ring, Tommy brawls with Bruno. Anderson re-enters the ring but is quickly caught in Tommy's Vortex of Pain. Marty barely manages a kick out.
Marty tags in Bruno but is grabbed by Marcus on the outside of the ring. Tommy uses the opportunity to choke the champion. Bruno returns the favor shortly after by superplexing Tommy. Tommy responds with a Vortex of Pain. Bruno recovers quickly before Tommy can capitalize. Bruno reaches Marty Anderson in time for a tag but Marty is quickly double teamed as Marcus is tagged in. A fresh Marcus suplexes Marty and goes for a pin attempt that is broken by Bruno. Marty surprises Marcus with a spinebuster and a pin that is broken by Tommy. The referee loses all control of the match as all four men brawl in the ring.
Both teams show off impressive team skills. Bruno has the upper hand on Tommy but is quickly stopped when Tommy pulls off another Vortex of Pain. Bruno barely kicks out of a pin attempt.
Tommy is slammed to the mat with a facebuster. Bruno attempts a pin but Tommy kicks out. Tommy hits yet another Vortex of Pain while Marcus knocks Marty off the apron. Tommy pins Bruno without interruption and snags a victory for his team.
Winners: The 4 Elements
Second Round
In a twist, the second round matches are also determined by random selection.
SCSF vs. Sons of Darkness
The Sons of Darkness dominate the early stages of the match. "Hardcore" Adam manages to take down Abbadon with a series of neckbreakers and an impressive powerbomb. Mastema is tagged in and Adam is double teamed, ultimately being tossed out of the ring. Sons of Darkness manager, Nick Belhor, attacks Adam on the outside while the ref is distracted. Adam climbss back in the ring but is slammed with Darkness Falls by Mastema while Abbadon attacks Tornado on the outside of the ring. Mastema goes for a pin but at the last second Tornado rushes into the ring to break up the count!
Adam finally manages to tag in Tornado. Mastema slows Tornado down using power moves. Tornado's head is volleyed back and forth by punches by both Sons of Darkness as Abbadon is tagged in. Tornado surprises Abbadon with an elbow smash and goes for a pin but Abbadon kicks out. Abbadon tries to tag in Mastema but is punched in the temple by Tornado and it drops him right to the mat.
Nick Belhor sneaks over to "Hardcore" Adam on the ring apron and attacks him. Adam manages to get back to the apron in time to tag in. Adam begins to mount an offense against Mastema, including a throatbreaker off the top turnbuckle. Abbadon is tagged in. Although Adam continues his attack on his larger opponents, he is caught in Darkness Falls and is pinned.
Winners: Sons of Darkness
The 4 Elements vs. Johnny Young and Jacob Washington
Marcus and Tommy maintain control of the match early on. Marcus tries to deliver a splash to Jacob in the corner but it is blocked with a chokebomb. Johnny is tagged in and battles Tommy but Tommy keeps Johnny down. Johnny comes back with a unique fisherman's suplex slam and a double arm suplex. Tommy surprises Johnny with a Vortex of Pain and a pin attempt that Johnny kicks out of.
Johnny tags in Jacob who goes at the freshly tagged Marcus with a flurry of punches. Jacob bounces Marcus' head against the mat several times. Marcus clotheslines Jacob out of the ring as he tags in Johnny. Marcus doesn't realize the tag is made and is blindsided by Johnny. Jacob and Johnny use teamwork to keep Marcus in their corner. Johnny goes for a pin but it is broken by Tommy. Marcus slams Johnny with the Marc of Perfection but the following pin attempt is broken up.
Marcus drops Johnny to the mat with a powerslam and pins him before Jacob can get in the ring to break the count.
Winners: The 4 Elements
Final Round
Sons of Darkness vs. The 4 Elements
Tommy tries to quickly control the match but is overpowered by the Sons of Darkness. Marcus is tagged in and manages to keep Mastema at bay. Marcus and Tommy begin using double team moves to shift momentum in their favor. Mastema tags in Abbadon at the same time Tommy tags in Marcus. Marcus and Abbadon brawl in the ring. Marcus is chokeslammed and dropped with Darkness Falls. Marcus kicks out but cannot recover quickly and is tossed around by Abbadon. Tommy is tagged in and enters the ring by hitting a body splash off the top rope. Tommy uses the Vortex of Pain on Abbadon but he kicks out of a pin attempt.
Close to the Sons of Darkness corner, Tommy is attacked by Abbadon, Mastema, and Nick Belhor! Somehow, Tommy escapes and tags in Marcus. Marcus attacks Abbadon with a series of suplexes, neckbreakers, and strikes. Marcus tags in Tommy. Tommy is slammed with Darkness Falls and pinned but manages to kick out on his own before Marcus can get to him.
Abbadon attempts a powerbomb on Tommy but it is reversed into a facebuster. Mastema is tagged in. As Mastema assaults Tommy, the end looks to be near for the 4 Elements. Suddenly, Abbadon steps into the ring, attacks Mastema, and walks out of the arena! Int he commotion, Tommy and Marcus finish off Mastema with a combination forearm strike into a backbreaker followed by an elbow drop. Tommy pins Mastema as Nick Belhor is thrown from ringside by the referee. Tommy gets the pinfall victory. The 4 Elements become the NRWL Tag Team Champions.
What will The 4 Elements have to say about their victory? What happened to the Sons of Darkness? Stay tuned.
Friday, September 13, 2013
Standoff
[Jay Phillips is in the backstage interview area]
Jay: Ladies and gentlemen, I’m here with the latest tag team to announce their participation in the upcoming tournament, “Hardcore” Adam and Tornado!
[Adam and Tornado step into view.]
JP: Adam, this will be your second shot at tag team gold. Give us your thoughts?
HCA: Well Jay, last time I was tag team champion, it was with a Hall of Famer. This time, it will be with the son of another Hall of Famer. We will win this tournament and quite frankly, I feel one of the belts is still mine. After all, I was never beaten for it. I was stripped of it when Mike Blood retired. So, we’re going to right the wrong, and bring that tag belt back around my waist.
JP: Adam, you mentioned Hall of Famer, Cyclone. Tornado, your father is legendary and was in just-as-legendary tag teams, winning the SCSF tag team titles with the iconic Crunchy, and then with the devastating Alien.
T: Jay, I watched my father from the crowd as a little kid. I saw him hold those belts and then some. I don’t need to be reminded of what he did. Adam and I are going to win these belts and I’m going to start my legacy. I was just on the phone with my father last night and he thinks people need to stop bringing him up every time they talk to me or they’re going to overlook something special right in front of them. I understand that I have big shoes to fi---
Off-Camera Voice: Whatever! Nobody cares about your daddy issues!
[Jay, Adam, and Tornado look off to the direction of the voice. The camera pans over The 4 Elements--Tommy Violence, Marcus, Max Destruction are standing next to Jay. Next to them is Mikey Armstrong in a wheelchair.]
Tommy Violence: Seriously. Give it a rest. Nobody wants to hear it. If all you are bringing to the table is a “stepping out of my father’s shadow” sob story, well, then take a spot behind Mark Blood. He already paved his way to failure with that tired, boring drama.
Marcus: See, this is how it works around here *does scare quotes with fingers* “Hardcore” Adam and Tornado. The people who pay money for tickets deserve better than you two. They need real heroes. And that’s why we’re also entering the tag team tournament. Tommy V and I will take of the tag team brackets…
Max Destruction: And when they’re done with that, I’ll be winning the #1 contender ladder match! And right after that, I’m going and I’m laying a beat down on Bruno Kowalski and taking the NRWL Championship belt for myself! All the gold will be locked up here, with The 4 Elements. Bruno, you made yourself a big mistake distancing yourself from me. You made a bigger mistake not making me your tag team partner. And you made the biggest mistake putting me in the #1 contender match. Enjoy your last few days with the NRWL Championship.
[Mikey Armstrong wheels closer to Jay. He pulls a crutch out from the back of the wheelchair. Slowly and almost exaggerated shakes, and stands up out of the wheelchair and leans on the crutch.]
Mikey Amrstrong: Look at that, Jay. I got up on my own two feet and am standing….all by myself!
JP: Well...you needed the crutch--
MA: I’m recovering from a career-ending, paralyzing injury.
JP: You just hurt your leg. That’s hardly paralyz--
MA: The outpouring of support and get-well soon from all the men, women, and children has been overwhelming! They really want to see me back in action! And I want to say to them, I’ll be back in the ring, dazzling audiences before you know it! You won’t have to put up with hacks like these two for much longer!
[At that line Tornado rushes towards Mikey, who quickly runs behind the other 3 members while holding his crutch up like a baseball bat. Tommy V, Marcus and Max form a wall, and Tornado and Adam stand face-to-face with them]
Tommy V: Easy there, junior. Do you really want to try something? Mikey in his injured state could take you both by himself, let alone having to deal with the rest of us.
[Tornado turns away]
Tommy V: Maybe if you were your dad, I’d be a little nervous…
[Tornado spins and slaps Tommy across the mouth. Marcus and Max are about to rush Tornado but Tommy holds them back. He steps up to Tornado.]
Tommy V: That was your freebie. You try anything else, and you can forget the tag team belts, because you’ll be in a body cast.
[“Hardcore” Adam pulls Tornado away from the confrontation and out of the camera view. Tornado and Tommy never stop staring into each others eyes. The scene fades out.]
Jay: Ladies and gentlemen, I’m here with the latest tag team to announce their participation in the upcoming tournament, “Hardcore” Adam and Tornado!
[Adam and Tornado step into view.]
JP: Adam, this will be your second shot at tag team gold. Give us your thoughts?
HCA: Well Jay, last time I was tag team champion, it was with a Hall of Famer. This time, it will be with the son of another Hall of Famer. We will win this tournament and quite frankly, I feel one of the belts is still mine. After all, I was never beaten for it. I was stripped of it when Mike Blood retired. So, we’re going to right the wrong, and bring that tag belt back around my waist.
JP: Adam, you mentioned Hall of Famer, Cyclone. Tornado, your father is legendary and was in just-as-legendary tag teams, winning the SCSF tag team titles with the iconic Crunchy, and then with the devastating Alien.
T: Jay, I watched my father from the crowd as a little kid. I saw him hold those belts and then some. I don’t need to be reminded of what he did. Adam and I are going to win these belts and I’m going to start my legacy. I was just on the phone with my father last night and he thinks people need to stop bringing him up every time they talk to me or they’re going to overlook something special right in front of them. I understand that I have big shoes to fi---
Off-Camera Voice: Whatever! Nobody cares about your daddy issues!
[Jay, Adam, and Tornado look off to the direction of the voice. The camera pans over The 4 Elements--Tommy Violence, Marcus, Max Destruction are standing next to Jay. Next to them is Mikey Armstrong in a wheelchair.]
Tommy Violence: Seriously. Give it a rest. Nobody wants to hear it. If all you are bringing to the table is a “stepping out of my father’s shadow” sob story, well, then take a spot behind Mark Blood. He already paved his way to failure with that tired, boring drama.
Marcus: See, this is how it works around here *does scare quotes with fingers* “Hardcore” Adam and Tornado. The people who pay money for tickets deserve better than you two. They need real heroes. And that’s why we’re also entering the tag team tournament. Tommy V and I will take of the tag team brackets…
Max Destruction: And when they’re done with that, I’ll be winning the #1 contender ladder match! And right after that, I’m going and I’m laying a beat down on Bruno Kowalski and taking the NRWL Championship belt for myself! All the gold will be locked up here, with The 4 Elements. Bruno, you made yourself a big mistake distancing yourself from me. You made a bigger mistake not making me your tag team partner. And you made the biggest mistake putting me in the #1 contender match. Enjoy your last few days with the NRWL Championship.
[Mikey Armstrong wheels closer to Jay. He pulls a crutch out from the back of the wheelchair. Slowly and almost exaggerated shakes, and stands up out of the wheelchair and leans on the crutch.]
Mikey Amrstrong: Look at that, Jay. I got up on my own two feet and am standing….all by myself!
JP: Well...you needed the crutch--
MA: I’m recovering from a career-ending, paralyzing injury.
JP: You just hurt your leg. That’s hardly paralyz--
MA: The outpouring of support and get-well soon from all the men, women, and children has been overwhelming! They really want to see me back in action! And I want to say to them, I’ll be back in the ring, dazzling audiences before you know it! You won’t have to put up with hacks like these two for much longer!
[At that line Tornado rushes towards Mikey, who quickly runs behind the other 3 members while holding his crutch up like a baseball bat. Tommy V, Marcus and Max form a wall, and Tornado and Adam stand face-to-face with them]
Tommy V: Easy there, junior. Do you really want to try something? Mikey in his injured state could take you both by himself, let alone having to deal with the rest of us.
[Tornado turns away]
Tommy V: Maybe if you were your dad, I’d be a little nervous…
[Tornado spins and slaps Tommy across the mouth. Marcus and Max are about to rush Tornado but Tommy holds them back. He steps up to Tornado.]
Tommy V: That was your freebie. You try anything else, and you can forget the tag team belts, because you’ll be in a body cast.
[“Hardcore” Adam pulls Tornado away from the confrontation and out of the camera view. Tornado and Tommy never stop staring into each others eyes. The scene fades out.]
Thursday, September 5, 2013
Parallels
[Jim "The Amp" Johnson and WarHead are sitting at the ringside announce table. Jay Phillips is standing in the middle of the ring.]
Jim "The Amp" Johnson: Alright fans, we've got Jay Phillips in the ring and he's going to be speaking with a very promising young wrestler tonight in Jacob Washington.
WarHead: That's my line, Jim, and you didn't even do it right. It goes AAAALLLLLLLLLLL RRRIIGGHHHTTT!!!! See? You have to put the emotion into it.
Jay Phillips: Fans, my guest at this time... Jacob Washington!
["Breathe Into Me" by The Red begins to play through the arena and he casually walks down to the ring to a mixed, though mostly negative, reaction from the crowd. He steps through the ropes and stands next to Jay.]
JP: Jacob, when Season Five began many called you the future face of this company. We've got a big six man Tables Ladders and Chairs match coming up after the tag team tournament to determine the number one contender for Bruno's title. You, Jacob Washington, are one of the participants in that match. What is your mindset going into the match?
Jacob Washington: Jay, plain and simple, I --
["Stain" by Full Devil Jacket begins to play, cutting off Jacob. Jacob smirks and shakes his head while he watches Johnny Young step out onto the stage. The crowd begins to cheer loudly. Johnny has a microphone in his hand and takes his time walking down to the ring.]
WarHead: Jacob Washington barely opened his mouth. I envision this not ending well at all.
Jim "The Amp" Johnson: I'd have to agree with you, WarHead. I don't know what Johnny's game plan is here but I hope he came ready to fight.
[Johnny steps into the ring. The music dies down.]
Johnny Young: Jacob, you and I haven't really gotten along since you came here. That's no secret. Hell, we've already brawled in this ring in a number one contenders match before. You know.... I kind of hate you. BUT, I also kind of like you an awful lot. I've been trying to figure out why.
JW: Well, it's probably jealousy. I walk in here, make a name for myself, live up to the hype, and am poised to run guys like you into obsolescence. That's why you hate me. You like me because I'm just so good you can't help but be impressed.
[Johnny nods and ponders Jacob's statement.]
JY: A good theory. Definitely a possibility. Now try mine out. A gifted wrestler with a lot of hype around him comes to the NRWL. In a roster where there's some old favorites and a lot of new faces, he manages to live up to that hype, exceed it even. In time, he gets his well deserved title shot and wins the big one. From there, he takes off and builds a great career. Becomes the face of the NRWL.
JW: So you're painting a picture of my future. Amazing. Did you get that from some magic 8 ball? None needed. You only need to watch me to see that the future you described is inevitable.
JY: Well, maybe. I don't know. The truth is, I could actually see that happening for you. Only thing is, I wasn't talking about you. I was talking about the story of a "Star Player". I'm talking about me. Awww yeeaahhh!
[The crowd bursts into cheers. Fans are chanting "Johnny! Johnny!"]
WarHead: I never thought about it, but he's right. I was there! People thought Johnny was going to be this huge deal. Ten years later, the proof is standing right in front of us.
Jim "The Amp" Johnson: The parallel is there, for sure.
JY: So, let me get this out of the way first. In that number one contenders match, it's every man for himself and if I were a betting man in Vegas, I'd be wise to put my money on The Star Player. But I am getting ahead of myself. Before we get to that match, we've got a tag team tournament coming up. I want in that tournament. More importantly, I want to win that tournament. I looked around and decided that the best fit for a tag team partner....... is you.
JW: Are you serious? So you come out here, interrupt me, tell me that you will win a number one contenders match that we are both in - you're wrong, by the way - and then tell me that you want me as your tag team partner? No way I'm carrying you to the finish line just to share some gold.
JY: Your cocky attitude reminds me of me. Your ability to work under the pressure of the hype machine reminds me of me. You've got the look of a champion, yeah, like me. Don't get me wrong, Jacob. I really do see you as a top guy in this company someday. Championship gold around your waist is a no brainer. It will happen. I'm just saying... it'll happen a lot sooner if you team up with me. Think about it. Put your attitude in check for just one moment and consider what I've done. I'm not asking you to like me. I'm asking you to listen to that growling inside. That hunger for some gold. Jacob, you and I can take this tournament.
[Jacob grinds his teeth, looks to the ring mat, and shakes his head. He smiles and looks up at Johnny. Then he walks right up to Johnny until they are nose-to-nose.]
JW: Ok. I'll bite. Let's do this. I don't feel too good about having a has been like you weighing me down but taking the tag titles and then going on to win the NRWL Championship from Bruno would be nice. I am hungry for gold. If I can get a double helping, why not?
JY: Well then. That's that. See you at the tournament. Partner. Aw. Yeah.
[Both men stare each other down. Finally, Johnny steps back, eyes up his partner, and then steps through the ropes and out of the ring. Jacob's music begins to play as he stands in the ring and watches Johnny walk back through the stage curtain.]
Jim "The Amp" Johnson: This could be quite a force in the tag team tournament. That's all dependent on if they can even function as a team.
WarHead: Fraust and I weren't always on the same page but we had a pretty good run with Nuclear Winter. With Johnny and Jacob, neither one of these guys is fond of the other but they have the same goal in mind. If they can somehow keep their focus, they really might win this whole thing. It's a big might, though.
Jim "The Amp" Johnson: No matter what happens, we won't know until the tournament!
Jim "The Amp" Johnson: Alright fans, we've got Jay Phillips in the ring and he's going to be speaking with a very promising young wrestler tonight in Jacob Washington.
WarHead: That's my line, Jim, and you didn't even do it right. It goes AAAALLLLLLLLLLL RRRIIGGHHHTTT!!!! See? You have to put the emotion into it.
Jay Phillips: Fans, my guest at this time... Jacob Washington!
["Breathe Into Me" by The Red begins to play through the arena and he casually walks down to the ring to a mixed, though mostly negative, reaction from the crowd. He steps through the ropes and stands next to Jay.]
JP: Jacob, when Season Five began many called you the future face of this company. We've got a big six man Tables Ladders and Chairs match coming up after the tag team tournament to determine the number one contender for Bruno's title. You, Jacob Washington, are one of the participants in that match. What is your mindset going into the match?
Jacob Washington: Jay, plain and simple, I --
["Stain" by Full Devil Jacket begins to play, cutting off Jacob. Jacob smirks and shakes his head while he watches Johnny Young step out onto the stage. The crowd begins to cheer loudly. Johnny has a microphone in his hand and takes his time walking down to the ring.]
WarHead: Jacob Washington barely opened his mouth. I envision this not ending well at all.
Jim "The Amp" Johnson: I'd have to agree with you, WarHead. I don't know what Johnny's game plan is here but I hope he came ready to fight.
[Johnny steps into the ring. The music dies down.]
Johnny Young: Jacob, you and I haven't really gotten along since you came here. That's no secret. Hell, we've already brawled in this ring in a number one contenders match before. You know.... I kind of hate you. BUT, I also kind of like you an awful lot. I've been trying to figure out why.
JW: Well, it's probably jealousy. I walk in here, make a name for myself, live up to the hype, and am poised to run guys like you into obsolescence. That's why you hate me. You like me because I'm just so good you can't help but be impressed.
[Johnny nods and ponders Jacob's statement.]
JY: A good theory. Definitely a possibility. Now try mine out. A gifted wrestler with a lot of hype around him comes to the NRWL. In a roster where there's some old favorites and a lot of new faces, he manages to live up to that hype, exceed it even. In time, he gets his well deserved title shot and wins the big one. From there, he takes off and builds a great career. Becomes the face of the NRWL.
JW: So you're painting a picture of my future. Amazing. Did you get that from some magic 8 ball? None needed. You only need to watch me to see that the future you described is inevitable.
JY: Well, maybe. I don't know. The truth is, I could actually see that happening for you. Only thing is, I wasn't talking about you. I was talking about the story of a "Star Player". I'm talking about me. Awww yeeaahhh!
[The crowd bursts into cheers. Fans are chanting "Johnny! Johnny!"]
WarHead: I never thought about it, but he's right. I was there! People thought Johnny was going to be this huge deal. Ten years later, the proof is standing right in front of us.
Jim "The Amp" Johnson: The parallel is there, for sure.
JY: So, let me get this out of the way first. In that number one contenders match, it's every man for himself and if I were a betting man in Vegas, I'd be wise to put my money on The Star Player. But I am getting ahead of myself. Before we get to that match, we've got a tag team tournament coming up. I want in that tournament. More importantly, I want to win that tournament. I looked around and decided that the best fit for a tag team partner....... is you.
JW: Are you serious? So you come out here, interrupt me, tell me that you will win a number one contenders match that we are both in - you're wrong, by the way - and then tell me that you want me as your tag team partner? No way I'm carrying you to the finish line just to share some gold.
JY: Your cocky attitude reminds me of me. Your ability to work under the pressure of the hype machine reminds me of me. You've got the look of a champion, yeah, like me. Don't get me wrong, Jacob. I really do see you as a top guy in this company someday. Championship gold around your waist is a no brainer. It will happen. I'm just saying... it'll happen a lot sooner if you team up with me. Think about it. Put your attitude in check for just one moment and consider what I've done. I'm not asking you to like me. I'm asking you to listen to that growling inside. That hunger for some gold. Jacob, you and I can take this tournament.
[Jacob grinds his teeth, looks to the ring mat, and shakes his head. He smiles and looks up at Johnny. Then he walks right up to Johnny until they are nose-to-nose.]
JW: Ok. I'll bite. Let's do this. I don't feel too good about having a has been like you weighing me down but taking the tag titles and then going on to win the NRWL Championship from Bruno would be nice. I am hungry for gold. If I can get a double helping, why not?
JY: Well then. That's that. See you at the tournament. Partner. Aw. Yeah.
[Both men stare each other down. Finally, Johnny steps back, eyes up his partner, and then steps through the ropes and out of the ring. Jacob's music begins to play as he stands in the ring and watches Johnny walk back through the stage curtain.]
Jim "The Amp" Johnson: This could be quite a force in the tag team tournament. That's all dependent on if they can even function as a team.
WarHead: Fraust and I weren't always on the same page but we had a pretty good run with Nuclear Winter. With Johnny and Jacob, neither one of these guys is fond of the other but they have the same goal in mind. If they can somehow keep their focus, they really might win this whole thing. It's a big might, though.
Jim "The Amp" Johnson: No matter what happens, we won't know until the tournament!
The Champ - Setting the Stage
Jim “The Amp” Johnson: Welcome everyone and thank you for joining us!! I’m Jim “The Amp” Johnson, and calling commentary with me here is The Hottest Item in the NRWL, WarHead!!!
WarHead: AAAALLL RRIIIIIGGGGHHHTT!!!! Jim, I gotta tell you, the last show was nothing short of amazing.
JJ: You got that right, WarHead. People are still talking about it. We’ve already heard from Mark Blood, Tornado, and Katsuto--
[“Cryin’ Like a Bitch’” by Godsmack blasts out the speakers. The crowd erupts in cheers!]
WH: Sounds like we’re going to hear from the reigning NRWL champ now!
[Bruno Kowalski ermerges from backstage area to a loud pop. He has the NRWL belt draped over his shoulder. He stands at the top of the ramp with a small smile on his face. Slowly and deliberately, he raises the NRWL belt overhead with one hand, and the crowd erupts with even louder cheers. He walks down to the ring, climbs in and grabs a mic.]
Bruno: Everyone knows that I’m a man of few words. I like to let my actions do the talking for me. But….I’ve got something to say. *pauses* How about that last show?
[Crowd cheers with approval.]
Bruno: I like to consider myself a stand-up guy who gives credit where credit is due. And with that in mind, I have to salute all my fellow wrestlers back in the locker room for the incredible show that we all put on. From the first match to the brutal last, it was some of the best I’ve seen since I got here. How about one more cheer for all the guys in the back that brought it and left it all in the ring?
[Crowd cheers even louder in appreciation]
JJ: This man is a class act.
WH: *clapping* Kudos to all you guys back in the locker room.
Bruno: The bad news about last card being so good is it makes my next task veeerrryy difficult - deciding who gets the next title shot.
JJ: He’s got a point, WarHead. Who do you give the next shot to?
WH: Based off last show, everyone.
BK: After givng it some thought, and talking with some of the guys backstage, I’ve decided to hold a #1 contender match. The match will be a 6-Man TLC match, with the winner getting a match for this belt here at the following show!
[crowd cheers.]
JJ: Oh man!!! That’s something not to be missed!
WH: But the real question is, who will be participating?!
JJ: Good question, WarHead
BK: It was tough decided who to pick for the match, but here’s who I came up with. First up, a rookie who’s turned a lot of heads, Jacob Washington!
[crowd boo’s]
JJ: Nothing surprising there
WH: He underestimatedt Paul Priest, but other than that stumbling block, he’s been on fire.
BK: The controversial, yet successful, Katsutoshi!
[crowd boo’s]
JJ: He’s won pretty much every match he’s been in, but won them questionably.
WH: W’s are W’s. Questionable wins get in you title match contentions like this. Losses don’t.
BK: The fans’ favorite wrestler, Ash!
[crowd cheers!]
JJ: Former champion and widely popular!
WH: He’s gotta earn his re-match.
BK: The star player, Johnny Young!!
[crowd cheers!]
JJ: Another past champion!
WH: Aaaww yeeaahh! Let’s see if Johnny can strike gold a 3rd time!
BK: My “friend” who said he’d be coming after my belt, Max Destruction.
[crowd gives a mix of boos and cheers.]
JJ: Hoooo boy!
WH: Well, if Max is serious about coming after Bruno’s belt, now’s his chance to prove it.
BK: And finally, the ice man, John Fraust!!!
[another mix reaction from the crowd]
JJ: Wow! John Fraust! This got even more interesting!
WH: Fraust excels in these kinds of matches. Ask Mark Blood. I just wonder if Fraust’s bumps and bruises will all be healed by the time the match happens.
BK: And there you go guys. You all know what you have to do Good luck, and may the best man win. Now, on to the next order of business: the tag team tournament!
JJ: So Bruno IS going to participate!
WH: Why wouldn’t he?! I would!
BK: I’m entering into the tournament. So, the question is, who’s my tag team partner going to be? Well, I’ve made my choice. It may not be the most popular choice. We don’t always see eye to eye and we’ve had our share of differences. But I’m here to win, and this man I think gives me the best shot at hoisting 2 belts. His first name begins with “M-A…”
WH: You gotta be kidding me….
BK: His last name ends with “O-N…”
JJ: He’s IS! He’s tagging with Max Destruction!
BK: Ladies and genglemen, my tag team partner…..love him or hate him….you gotta respect him. MARTY ANDERSON!!!!
[The crowd erupts in cheers as “On March the Saints” by Down blasts over the system, Marty Anderson steps out from backstage to a loud pop.]
JJ: What a shocker!!! Marty Anderson!!!
WH: It’s a smart move! Marty Anderson is a force!
[Marty walks down to the ring. He takes a mic and walks over to Bruno and shakes his hand. The music dies down.]
Marty Anderson: Bruno and I share a few things in common: Mat skills. No-nonsense attitude. And the desire to win. Those things have put the belt around his waist. And this season he has proven that in tag team competition, he is clutch. He’s won every tag match he’s been in this season, and with different tag team partners.
JJ: I think Marty is the only guy that’s beat Bruno this season.
MA: That tells me he knows how to hold his own and not fold when it’s all on the line. I don’t know if that can be said about anyone else on the roster. Bruno has proven he has what it takes to succeed in tag team wrestling. So tagging with Bruno...it’s a no-brainer.
BK: And Marty has also proven that he also has what it takes to succeed in tag team wrestling, for those of you who remember when he tagged with Malone. We expect nothing less than winning the tag team tournament.
MA: We don’t care who you put in front of us. Sons of Darkness. The 4 Elements. It doesn’t matter. We’re walking away with the belts. And that’s all there is to it!!
[“On March the Saints” blasts again as the crowd cheers Marty’s bold statement. Marty and Bruno stand up on the turnbuckles rallying the crowd. Bruno holds up the NRWL championship, and Marty does the belt-around-the-waist gesture.]
JJ: We don’t even know half teams in this tournament, and already Bruno and Marty might be favored to win.
WH: Is it too early to pick them as the winners? I’ll bet you $100, Jim.
JJ: Ha ha, I’m not a betting man, WarHead, and I certainly wouldn’t bet against those two. I can’t wait to see how this tournament shakes out! Stay tuned!
[scene fades]
WarHead: AAAALLL RRIIIIIGGGGHHHTT!!!! Jim, I gotta tell you, the last show was nothing short of amazing.
JJ: You got that right, WarHead. People are still talking about it. We’ve already heard from Mark Blood, Tornado, and Katsuto--
[“Cryin’ Like a Bitch’” by Godsmack blasts out the speakers. The crowd erupts in cheers!]
WH: Sounds like we’re going to hear from the reigning NRWL champ now!
[Bruno Kowalski ermerges from backstage area to a loud pop. He has the NRWL belt draped over his shoulder. He stands at the top of the ramp with a small smile on his face. Slowly and deliberately, he raises the NRWL belt overhead with one hand, and the crowd erupts with even louder cheers. He walks down to the ring, climbs in and grabs a mic.]
Bruno: Everyone knows that I’m a man of few words. I like to let my actions do the talking for me. But….I’ve got something to say. *pauses* How about that last show?
[Crowd cheers with approval.]
Bruno: I like to consider myself a stand-up guy who gives credit where credit is due. And with that in mind, I have to salute all my fellow wrestlers back in the locker room for the incredible show that we all put on. From the first match to the brutal last, it was some of the best I’ve seen since I got here. How about one more cheer for all the guys in the back that brought it and left it all in the ring?
[Crowd cheers even louder in appreciation]
JJ: This man is a class act.
WH: *clapping* Kudos to all you guys back in the locker room.
Bruno: The bad news about last card being so good is it makes my next task veeerrryy difficult - deciding who gets the next title shot.
JJ: He’s got a point, WarHead. Who do you give the next shot to?
WH: Based off last show, everyone.
BK: After givng it some thought, and talking with some of the guys backstage, I’ve decided to hold a #1 contender match. The match will be a 6-Man TLC match, with the winner getting a match for this belt here at the following show!
[crowd cheers.]
JJ: Oh man!!! That’s something not to be missed!
WH: But the real question is, who will be participating?!
JJ: Good question, WarHead
BK: It was tough decided who to pick for the match, but here’s who I came up with. First up, a rookie who’s turned a lot of heads, Jacob Washington!
[crowd boo’s]
JJ: Nothing surprising there
WH: He underestimatedt Paul Priest, but other than that stumbling block, he’s been on fire.
BK: The controversial, yet successful, Katsutoshi!
[crowd boo’s]
JJ: He’s won pretty much every match he’s been in, but won them questionably.
WH: W’s are W’s. Questionable wins get in you title match contentions like this. Losses don’t.
BK: The fans’ favorite wrestler, Ash!
[crowd cheers!]
JJ: Former champion and widely popular!
WH: He’s gotta earn his re-match.
BK: The star player, Johnny Young!!
[crowd cheers!]
JJ: Another past champion!
WH: Aaaww yeeaahh! Let’s see if Johnny can strike gold a 3rd time!
BK: My “friend” who said he’d be coming after my belt, Max Destruction.
[crowd gives a mix of boos and cheers.]
JJ: Hoooo boy!
WH: Well, if Max is serious about coming after Bruno’s belt, now’s his chance to prove it.
BK: And finally, the ice man, John Fraust!!!
[another mix reaction from the crowd]
JJ: Wow! John Fraust! This got even more interesting!
WH: Fraust excels in these kinds of matches. Ask Mark Blood. I just wonder if Fraust’s bumps and bruises will all be healed by the time the match happens.
BK: And there you go guys. You all know what you have to do Good luck, and may the best man win. Now, on to the next order of business: the tag team tournament!
JJ: So Bruno IS going to participate!
WH: Why wouldn’t he?! I would!
BK: I’m entering into the tournament. So, the question is, who’s my tag team partner going to be? Well, I’ve made my choice. It may not be the most popular choice. We don’t always see eye to eye and we’ve had our share of differences. But I’m here to win, and this man I think gives me the best shot at hoisting 2 belts. His first name begins with “M-A…”
WH: You gotta be kidding me….
BK: His last name ends with “O-N…”
JJ: He’s IS! He’s tagging with Max Destruction!
BK: Ladies and genglemen, my tag team partner…..love him or hate him….you gotta respect him. MARTY ANDERSON!!!!
[The crowd erupts in cheers as “On March the Saints” by Down blasts over the system, Marty Anderson steps out from backstage to a loud pop.]
JJ: What a shocker!!! Marty Anderson!!!
WH: It’s a smart move! Marty Anderson is a force!
[Marty walks down to the ring. He takes a mic and walks over to Bruno and shakes his hand. The music dies down.]
Marty Anderson: Bruno and I share a few things in common: Mat skills. No-nonsense attitude. And the desire to win. Those things have put the belt around his waist. And this season he has proven that in tag team competition, he is clutch. He’s won every tag match he’s been in this season, and with different tag team partners.
JJ: I think Marty is the only guy that’s beat Bruno this season.
MA: That tells me he knows how to hold his own and not fold when it’s all on the line. I don’t know if that can be said about anyone else on the roster. Bruno has proven he has what it takes to succeed in tag team wrestling. So tagging with Bruno...it’s a no-brainer.
BK: And Marty has also proven that he also has what it takes to succeed in tag team wrestling, for those of you who remember when he tagged with Malone. We expect nothing less than winning the tag team tournament.
MA: We don’t care who you put in front of us. Sons of Darkness. The 4 Elements. It doesn’t matter. We’re walking away with the belts. And that’s all there is to it!!
[“On March the Saints” blasts again as the crowd cheers Marty’s bold statement. Marty and Bruno stand up on the turnbuckles rallying the crowd. Bruno holds up the NRWL championship, and Marty does the belt-around-the-waist gesture.]
JJ: We don’t even know half teams in this tournament, and already Bruno and Marty might be favored to win.
WH: Is it too early to pick them as the winners? I’ll bet you $100, Jim.
JJ: Ha ha, I’m not a betting man, WarHead, and I certainly wouldn’t bet against those two. I can’t wait to see how this tournament shakes out! Stay tuned!
[scene fades]
Tuesday, September 3, 2013
Isolation
[Jay Phillips is standing in the ring]
Jay Phillips: Ladies and gentlemen, please welcome my guest at this time, Tornado.
[“Bullets” by Creed cranks over the speakers. Tornado walks out with an irked face on. He no-so-boisterously walks down to the ring and climbs in and stands next to Jay as the music dies down.]
JP: Tornado, as a second generation wrestler and son of SCSF legend, Cyclone, there must have been tremendous pressure to deliver at the last show. And thanks to Katsutoshi--or, probably more accurately, Leiko--those expectations fell, shall we say, a little short?
Tornado: Look Jay, you and everybody watching, saw exactly what a disgrace of a match that was last night. I understand that referees are human and they make mistakes. I’m not blaming the officiating for my loss, but I really think it played a big hand in the outcome of the match.
JP: The questionable officiating being the DQ call?
T: Well---see that’s why it’s questionable. Normally, a disqualification for putting your hands on out outside manager--which is what I did--is the correct call. But...c’mon!! I don’t know how the ref missed her parading back and forth on the ring apron the ENTIRE match, suplexing me out of the ring, punching me while I was outside the ring, and then...proceeding to pin my arms up while Katsutoshi got in a shot I couldn’t defend against!! And somehow **I** get disqualified? Just for taking care of business?? Call me crazy, but I think the people who pay their hard-earned money deserve better than that.
Voice over PA: Weeeeeeee ooooooooo weeeeeeee ooooooooooo weeeeeeeee ooooooooooo!
[Tornado and Jay look up the ramp as Katsutoshi and and Leiko emerge from backstage. It’s Katsutoshi making the siren sound into the microphone.]
Katsutoshi: Hear that Tornado? It’s the WAAAAAAmbulance on their way here to administer an emergency diaper change. Why don’t you man up and admit that you’re a hot-head rookie who lost his cool and put his hands on a lady? Wait, I just answered my own question. You CAN’T man up because real men don’t put their hands on ladies! Typically, I would walk right down there and kick the snot of anyone who strikes a woman, but you’ve already dishonored yourself AND your father with your cowardly act. Plus, I already beat you! Ha! So I have nothing more to prove. I’m the better man, and truly, the better man won!
[Katsutoshi folds his arms and smiles impishly. Tornado grinds his teeth and scowls. After a few seconds, he snatches the microphone from Jay Phillips hand, startling Jay. Tornado walks over the ropes and leans over them, addressing and pointing up at Katustoshi.]
T: If you think this is over, you’re WRONG! If you think we’re done, you’re WRONG! And if you think that I’m not going to get back at you…..YOU’RE WRONG! After this tag-team tournament, you and I are going at it again! But this time, we’ll be inside a cage so your harlot can’t interfere on your behalf like she always does! Then we’ll see who the real man is and if you can take care of business YOURSELF!
[“Bullets” begins playing again. A visibly outraged Katsutoshi begins yelling and pacing and waving his hands in anger. He points up at Tornado and Tornado points right back at him, then Tornado punches his fist into his open palm. Katsutoshi continues yelling up at Tornado as Leiko tries calming Katsutoshi down as the scene fades out.]
Jay Phillips: Ladies and gentlemen, please welcome my guest at this time, Tornado.
[“Bullets” by Creed cranks over the speakers. Tornado walks out with an irked face on. He no-so-boisterously walks down to the ring and climbs in and stands next to Jay as the music dies down.]
JP: Tornado, as a second generation wrestler and son of SCSF legend, Cyclone, there must have been tremendous pressure to deliver at the last show. And thanks to Katsutoshi--or, probably more accurately, Leiko--those expectations fell, shall we say, a little short?
Tornado: Look Jay, you and everybody watching, saw exactly what a disgrace of a match that was last night. I understand that referees are human and they make mistakes. I’m not blaming the officiating for my loss, but I really think it played a big hand in the outcome of the match.
JP: The questionable officiating being the DQ call?
T: Well---see that’s why it’s questionable. Normally, a disqualification for putting your hands on out outside manager--which is what I did--is the correct call. But...c’mon!! I don’t know how the ref missed her parading back and forth on the ring apron the ENTIRE match, suplexing me out of the ring, punching me while I was outside the ring, and then...proceeding to pin my arms up while Katsutoshi got in a shot I couldn’t defend against!! And somehow **I** get disqualified? Just for taking care of business?? Call me crazy, but I think the people who pay their hard-earned money deserve better than that.
Voice over PA: Weeeeeeee ooooooooo weeeeeeee ooooooooooo weeeeeeeee ooooooooooo!
[Tornado and Jay look up the ramp as Katsutoshi and and Leiko emerge from backstage. It’s Katsutoshi making the siren sound into the microphone.]
Katsutoshi: Hear that Tornado? It’s the WAAAAAAmbulance on their way here to administer an emergency diaper change. Why don’t you man up and admit that you’re a hot-head rookie who lost his cool and put his hands on a lady? Wait, I just answered my own question. You CAN’T man up because real men don’t put their hands on ladies! Typically, I would walk right down there and kick the snot of anyone who strikes a woman, but you’ve already dishonored yourself AND your father with your cowardly act. Plus, I already beat you! Ha! So I have nothing more to prove. I’m the better man, and truly, the better man won!
[Katsutoshi folds his arms and smiles impishly. Tornado grinds his teeth and scowls. After a few seconds, he snatches the microphone from Jay Phillips hand, startling Jay. Tornado walks over the ropes and leans over them, addressing and pointing up at Katustoshi.]
T: If you think this is over, you’re WRONG! If you think we’re done, you’re WRONG! And if you think that I’m not going to get back at you…..YOU’RE WRONG! After this tag-team tournament, you and I are going at it again! But this time, we’ll be inside a cage so your harlot can’t interfere on your behalf like she always does! Then we’ll see who the real man is and if you can take care of business YOURSELF!
[“Bullets” begins playing again. A visibly outraged Katsutoshi begins yelling and pacing and waving his hands in anger. He points up at Tornado and Tornado points right back at him, then Tornado punches his fist into his open palm. Katsutoshi continues yelling up at Tornado as Leiko tries calming Katsutoshi down as the scene fades out.]
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