NFW Collision #110! 10/26/2021!

Nick Hanson: Hello, good afternoon and welcome to NFW Collision, ladies and gentlemen! A super early good morning back in the states, folks! We are live in Sapporo, Japan at Hokkaido! The road to Wrestlewar continues!

Jim Reynolds: This tour got off to a great start, Nicky, and it’s only gonna get wilder!

Nick Hanson: Right, you are, Jim! We’ve got a stacked card and we’ll be finding out who the next challenger for the World Heavyweight Championship is!! Collision! Starts! Now!

Jim Reynolds: Let’s fucking go!!

Pretty Vacant vs. Second City Riot Squad

Pretty Vacant looks to make an impact by attacking the former tag and trios champions as soon as the bell rings. Vacant hits Layla with a clothesline as Many More hits Leah with a European uppercut and a quick snap suplex before El Aguacil sends Many More back to their corner. Vacant pulls Layla up and whips her into the Pretty Vacant corner. Many More is tagged in and they bring Layla up for a big double suplex. Pretty Vacant taunts the crowd a bit and Layla counters and delivers a quick double neckbreaker. Layla rolls over and tags Leah in. Leah quickly springboards up and takes out Pretty Vacant with a big shotgun dropkick. Vacant is up first and right back after a big roundhouse kick. Layla is back up and wants the tag which Leah gladly gives her. Layla comes in with a big diving crossbody that takes Many More down, then she connects with a big enziguri and a step-up hurricanrana that sends Vacant into the corner. Layla grabs Many More and hits the big CT-Knee and makes the cover


Leah is quickly in with a big boot that sends Vacant up and over the top rope. Layla makes the tag to Leah and they hit a quick double suplex before Layla flies to the outside with a lope suicida that wipes Vacant out. Layla hops back onto the apron and tags as Leah sets Many More up in the electric chair, Leah springboards up and hits the southside cutta. Layla covers as Leah makes sure Vacant stays down


Yuusuke Takeda: Pinfōru no kekka to shite no anata no shōsha, ria aguero to Reira Diasu... Sekandoshiti bōdō-tai.

Jim Reynolds: Second City Riot Squad with a great performance tonight and a nice win.

Nick Hanson: Pretty Vacant were looking to make their official debut a big one and score an upset, but they took their eyes off the ball for one second and paid the price.

Jim Reynolds: You have to bring your A-Game against the Second City Riot Squad. Whether it is in tag or trios competition, they are a tough team.


The Second City Riot Squad celebrating their win against Pretty Vacant don’t seem to be done just yet. The War Queen Leah Aguero grabs ahold of the house mic.

Leah Aguero: Hold up. Turn off that music. We ain’t done here yet.

“Killing In the Name” cuts off at Leah’s request.

Leah Aguero: I’m going to keep this short and sweet because the Second City Riot Squad isn’t out here to talk all of you to death. We’re out here to kick ass and take what’s ours. Last week, however, Last of the Valkyries felt the need to address us and lay down a challenge. You see, something’s been eating at them ever since they won their NFW Tag Team Titles almost a year ago. They feel that they have run through every tag team in NFW but the only team they haven’t been able to beat clean in the center of that ring is the greatest tag team NFW has ever bore witness to; The Second City Riot Squad.

Diaz, also still pumped from the match, leans over to the microphone as well.

Layla Diaz: We neva got our rematch foe dem belts neitha. Not da way we want dem.

Leah puts an arm out in front of Layla Diaz and guides her back.

Leah Aguero: You want to see who the best tag team NFW has to offer? You want to call us out and want to have a best of seven series? That’s cool. Put them NFW Tag straps on the line and the Second City Riot Squad will be happy to take them back off your hands. We’ve been feeling a little light ever since we dropped those Trios Titles. Perhaps it’s time the Tag Team Titles come back home where they belong; around the waists of the SCRS.

Leah is ready to throw the microphone away when Diaz reaches over and grabs it.

Layla Diaz: Jus rememba, it be yous alls funerals. Yous alls finna regret layin down dat challenge. Is bout time we take back ours.

Diaz is now the one to throw the microphone down to the mat as The Second City Riot Squad exit the ring.
Boxer Jones stood in his black and white official flannel in front of three entire tables stacked with various and sundry Japanese foods, mostly sweets and treats. The camera pans over all the delicious foods, and as it transitions across to another table there’s a bright sparkly anime lens flare that catches the camera. This reveals Super Nova Risa Jackson seated next to The Kingdom’s Lilith Meadows, in front of them are plates, some silverware and several glasses of water on each woman’s side.

Boxer Jones: I’ll be honest, don’t really know what I’m doin here folks. This is an eating contest, Between Lilith Meadows and Risa Jackson. Scheduled to go on for three rounds. Rules are simple, no puke bucket, two glasses of water each and you eat until one of you says uncle!

Wait. Why can we understand Boxcar?! Wait a sec… Oh hell yeah, NFW’s really springing the very intentional Power Ranger’s dubbing here. Rita Repulsa couldn’t have it better. Looks like this is gonna be the contest episode, alright folks strap in.

Supernova: No one in this entire company eats more than I do!

Another anime lens flare, which is caused by Super Nova holding two fingers up to her left eye and winking.

Lilith Meadows just leaned back in her chair with her feet kicked up and did her very best impression of that baby mouse from Tom and Jerry, craning her neck back pointing with one slender finger of her right hand down at a mouth that isn’t not stretched out in just a slightly eldritch fashion.

That’s how we kick off folks! Lilith is given a moment to right her posture, to everyone’s relief and once she’s properly upright both contestants dig in! Meadow’s tucking in to a bowl of Ramen at a speed would make a road runner jealous. Super Nova picked up an entire handful of Yakitori skewers and somehow not only slide every piece perfectly off every stick but land all of it into her own not-un-slight elridtch mouth in one go.

Boxer Jones: UwU...Ew. No. Never doing that again. I think Mrs Meadows’ has polished off two bowl of Ramen, and wait now she’s picking up two at once, and Super Nova is on her second handful of Skewers.

By the time the camera pans back, there’s a stack of dishes that cries out for removing, swaying with each motion the contents make. Lilith has ploughed through an entire day’s supply of Ramen bowls making the dish piles cries all the louder. Now she’s moved on to Onigiri. It look’s like Risa’s managed to get one of the skewers stuck in her hand and is angrily attempting to rip it out while shouting.

Supernova: SON OF A BI-

We censor camera swing right back to Old Boxer, who half looks like *he* really wants to sit down and start eating. Just in time for him to yell for a halt and declare Lilith the winner of round one! He had mistook Risa’s waving hand for her throwing in the towel!

El Piso Mojado vs. Katelin Descarrilado

The bell rang and El Piso Mojado immediately startled playing to the crowd, throwing up his hands to get the Hokkaido crowd going. He does this to opposite sides of the ring, garnering a mixed reaction from the audience. Piso looks confused as to why he’s not getting all the love and adoration he’s used to getting. He starts to wave the crowd off and turns back to Katelin where she suddenly catches Piso in the jaw with a forearm. The fans pop a bit for Katelin, as a change of pace, as the Devil In The Details starts going in on Piso with forearm strikes until she gets him against the ropes. Katelin goes to Irish Whip him across the ring where Piso reverses it and sends her off the ropes, instead. Katelin comes back and tries to counter with a clothesline but Piso ducks under and runs to the ropes. He hops up and springs back off the middle rope where he crashes down onto Katelin with a crossbody, right into a cover with one leg hooked!


Katelin kicks out and Piso picks her up to her feet. Piso nails her with a European Uppercut then runs to the ropes. Katelin, however, runs in two steps behind him, hits the ropes a split second after and drives Piso’s head into the mat with a Running Bulldog. Piso stays down on the mat as Katelin gets to her feet and just proceeds to stomp on his head, proceeding to perform the Garvin Stomp in a full lap before jumping up and coming down with a Knee Drop onto Piso’s head again. Piso grabs at his head but Katelin pulls one of his arms out and kicks her feet up off of the mat, coming down with a Double Knee Armbreaker. Piso thrashes on the mat then as Katelin rolls him over to lock on the Rail Tie where Piso quickly starts slapping the mat.


Yuusuke Takeda: Kore ga anata no shōshadesu, teishutsu ni yotte... Fukuhara Haruka!!

Nick Hanson: And Katelin Descarrilado, or excuse me, Haruka Fukuhara picks up a win here in Sapporo!!

Jim Reynolds: Well earned too, Nicky!! Let’s hear it for her!!

Katelin stands in the center of the ring, looking down at El Piso Mojado for a moment before bowing to the crowd and rolling out of the ring where she heads to the back.

It’s somewhat of a new arrangement.

The Guardians (of the Galaxy) graphic tee. The Daryl Dixon angel-winged sleeveless denim jacket. The Squall Leonhart Griever necklace. The Son Goku blue wristbands. The Star Trek galaxy stretch pants. The Green Lantern glow-in-the-dark Converse.

Lying face up on the coffee table is the Avengers: Endgame Captain America Shield. Dressed in her updated ring attire, Jessica Matthews is warming up with push-ups on the floor beside the shield. Her motherly curves are perfect for the wonderful shape she’s in. It’s a wonder why she chose to conceal them until the end of the Vlad Blackheart Memorial Tournament.

“Um, Mademoiselle Jessica…?”

Jessica looks up from her position, while the camera pans over to reveal Ami Fitzsimmons standing at the open doorway. She’s dressed for her interviewing services tonight, a lovely yellow dress with matching high heels. Her hair is styled into a nice pair of braids.

Jessica Matthews: Come on in, Ami. The door’s already open.

It almost seems dangerous. Leaving her door open invites anyone to enter -- whether the Paladin wanted them to or not. The Dancing Violinist nods and makes her way inside. In the privacy of one’s locker room, she doesn’t need a microphone.

Ami Fitzsimmons: I’d like to get your thoughts on a few things. Is that okay?

Matthews finishes her push-ups before she rises to her feet. She regards her friend with a smile and nods.

Jessica Matthews: Of course. Fire away.

Ami Fitzsimmons: Well, now that the fourth annual Vlad Blackheart Memorial Tournament has reached its conclusion, how are you feeling about your performance?

Jessica Matthews: Honestly, Ami? It wasn’t bad, but I could’ve done so much better. Out of eighteen possible points, I only scored eight. I don’t want to make any excuses. Even though I was “retired”, I never once stopped working out and keeping myself in shape. It took some time, but I’ve finally embraced my figure, curves and all. The tournament was just the beginning of my new game plus. I’m ready for the next battle -- and that’s here in Sapporo against Kusanagi Yukiko-san.

A smile crosses her face. She reaches over, grabs a bottle of strawberry banana BodyArmor, and takes a couple of sips. Matthews nods and Fitzsimmons continues.

Ami Fitzsimmons: Before we focus on Mademoiselle Kusanagi, I’d like to ask you about Monsieur Shields. I know you two have a deep history, a fierce rivalry that branches from a former company called New Generation Wrestling. You seemed to have wounded his ego a little when you rejected his “title” of “Best Wrestler in the World”. So much so that he took a different approach against Johnny Towers last week in a no disqualification match. What are your thoughts on the situation?

Matthews shakes her head softly, twists the cap back on her drink, and sets it back on the coffee table next to her shield. She then places her right hand on her hip and sighs.

Jessica Matthews: I don’t buy it. Matthew Shields isn’t the kind of person who can change for the better. He’s far beyond redemption. Lest the people forget that over three years ago, that psychopath nearly ended my career. I was lucky he didn’t break my neck and kill me! He had the audacity to choke my older sister Everalda and threaten her. He made my brother-in-law Adrien’s life a living hell. It took the Guardians defeating the Destroyers to put an end to that war. Yet after all this time, he still hasn’t learned a thing. The only reason why he was “different” on the last Collision was because of his son and Hikaru. It’s just a cover, an act to deceive everyone--

Matthews stops mid-sentence, her soft blue eyes looking past Fitzsimmons. The NFW Interviewer turns around and her eyes widen. Standing at the doorway is none other than the Blood Angel, herself. The Sapporo crowd watching from out in the arena gives a little pop as Yukiko Kusanagi calmly steps into the locker room. She’s garbed out in her full ring gear, complete with a sleeveless “Blood Angel” t-shirt and her half mask over her mouth and nose. The camera slowly follows Yukiko as she steps in and comes to stand by Jessica and Ami; pale eyes shifting between the two. She says nothing, just yet. Rather, she turns her focus fully onto Jessica and looks her over before tilting her head; curious as to her wardrobe. Well aware of the attention she’s receiving, Jessica raises an eyebrow and turns towards Yukiko.

Jessica Matthews: Dō nasaimashita?

"May I help you?"

Yukiko gives Jessica a look with her eyes, clearly somewhat surprised to hear the fluent Japanese come from her. Kusanagi gives a small nod before side glancing to Ami, then back to Jessica.

Yukiko Kusanagi: Chūdan o o...yurushi kudasai. Ringu de kanojo ni au mae ni, paradin o madjika de mitakatta.

“Please forgive me for the interruption. I wanted to see the paladin up close before meeting her in her ring.”

Poor Ami. She looks back and forth between the two with the most clueless expression on her features. She has no idea what they’re saying. It’s no wonder why she was lost in Hokkaido for a time. Jessica offers Yukiko a smile before she raises her arms out to her sides.

Jessica Matthews: Sate, koko ni imasu. Dōomoimasuka?

"Well, here I am. What do you think?"

Yukiko gives Jessica another once over, tilting her head to the other side before lifting her eyes to the Guardian once again.

Yukiko Kusanagi: Inshō-teki.

“Impressive.”

She shifts her posture, slowly walking from one side of Jessica to the other, perhaps to give poor Ami more personal space so she doesn’t feel as if she’s so close to an animal in human form. Not once, ever, does Yukiko take her eyes off of Jessica. She stops on the other side of her then.

Yukiko Kusanagi: Mashūzu fujin, anata o mitekimashita. Anata ga watashi no kuni de sonkei sa rete iru riyū wa kantan ni wakarimasu. Ichibu no hitobito ga sono rokudenashi, Matto Shīrudo o gūzō-ka suru riyū yori mo miyasuidesu. Watashi wa sore o rikai suru koto wa kesshite arimasen.

“Mrs. Matthews, I have seen you. It's easy to see why you are respected in my country. It's easier to see than why some people idolize that bastard Matt Shields. I will never understand it.”

Yukiko pauses and finally looks directly at Ami. It’s as if this is the first time she’s noticing the little interviewer’s discomfort. Yukiko’s eyes squint above her mask as she slowly steps towards her.

Yukiko Kusanagi: Chīsai ko, watashi wa anata o kowagara semasu ka? Osoreru koto wa arimasen. Watashi wa kamimasen....

“Do I frighten you, little one? Do not be afraid. I do not bite....”

She falls silent, but there’s a gleam in her eye as she watches Ami. The English-Frenchwoman isn’t sure what to make of this situation. On one hand, she can’t understand a word Yukiko is saying. On the other hand, she’s nervous about the direct eye contact and the slow approach. She even takes a step back and squeaks.

Ami Fitzsimmons: Ummm… I-I’m sorry, I don’t-- um… understand Japanese at all? Like I can’t speak, read, or write it. I-I actually got lost trying to find the hotel! Eheh...

A frown crosses Jessica’s face. She takes a step forward and moves herself to stand between Ami and Yukiko. Her right hand is no longer on her hip; her hands are on the straight and narrow at her sides. It’s a strong, ready stance.

Jessica Matthews: Shinaide kudasai. Shīrudo ga sūkagetsumae ni kanojo ni shita koto o omoidashite mite kudasai. Anata wa kare yori jōzudesu yo ne, Yukiko-san?

"Don't. Try to remember what Shields did to her a few months ago. You're better than him, right Yukiko-san?"

Her eyes soften but not her body language. Worst case scenario, Jessica’s ready to throw down with Yukiko if she has to defend Ami.

Jessica Matthews: Come on...

Yukiko halts in her movements and switches her attention up to Jessica. The Blood Angel’s stance remains relaxed and she steps back just a tad; hands coming up halfway in semi-surrender.

Yukiko Kusanagi: Mochiron! Watashi ga itta yō ni, watashi wa kanojo ni gai ga nai koto o imi shimasu.

“Of course! As I said, I mean her no harm.”

Her shoulders shake from a little chuckle and Yukiko bends her neck to both sides, one after the other, with soft, audible cracks before looking at Jessica again.

Yukiko Kusanagi: Watashi wa kare yori mo sugurete imasu. Anata mo sōdesu.

“I am better than him. As are you.”

Yukiko brings up a finger as she speaks, pointing to herself and then to Jessica.

Yukiko Kusanagi: Shīrudo wa, rūru no nai tatakai de kōryo sa rerubeki bōryoku-tekina chikaradesu. Sore igai wa, kare wa mōsō-tekide hiretsuna yarōdesu. Sore ni kanshite wa, anata ga kare o hakai suru no o miru no o tanoshiminishiteimasu. Shikashi, kon'ya wa……

“Shields is a violent force to be reckoned with in a fight without rules. Other than that, he is a delusional, despicable bastard. I look forward to watching you destroy him if it comes to that. However, tonight....”

Yukiko takes another, ever so small step towards Jessica again.

Yukiko Kusanagi: Sono ringu de anata no mukai ni tatte iru no wa watashidesu. Karede wa arimasen. Junbi wa īdesu ka, Paradin?

“It will be me standing across from you in that ring. Not him. Are you ready, Paladin?”

Even then, Jessica doesn’t move. She doesn’t back down from Yukiko. Looking the other woman in the eye, a smile crosses the Paladin’s face.

Jessica Matthews: Watashi wa junbi ga dekite imasu, Enjeru.

"I'm ready, Angel."

Ami looks between the two of them. They look like fierce warriors prepared for battle. She stays behind Jessica -- in case anything else happens. She really hopes this isn’t going to turn bloody and violent. Yukiko’s eyes narrow as she and Jessica stare each other down. Slowly, even barely - ever slightly noticeable - she nods.

Yukiko Kusanagi: Yoi. Sochira de o ai shimashou….

“Good. I will see you out there....”

Yukiko starts to slowly step around Jessica, headed towards the door. Before she gets out of her immediate vicinity, she sizes the Paladin up, once more. However, this time, Kusanagi pauses and slowly reaches up to pull her face mask down. This reveals...a grin on her lips, spreading out to where her teeth are bared. She looks back up at Jessica again with that smile and while viewers may miss it, Jessica and Ami are close enough to catch a glimpse of Yukiko’s tongue running over her teeth. Finally, she raises her mask back up and turns, leaving the locker room. The sight clearly petrifies Ami. The poor woman doesn’t want to move, staying behind the Guardian for safety. A chill crawls down Jessica’s back and she narrows her eyes. Without a word, she walks over to the coffee table, retrieves her shield, and braces it on her right arm. She heads out the door, leaving Ami and the camera to simply stare.

Yukiko Kusanagi vs. Jessica Matthews

Inside of the ring, the wrestling fans of Toyohira-ku, Sapporo, Japan are treated to this rare, one-of-a-kind spectacle. Even referee Hiroki Tanaka is in awe.

Yukiko Kusanagi and Jessica Matthews standing across the ring from one another.

They’ve been nothing but respectful on Twitter. Everyone was intrigued by their first-time interaction backstage of the Hokkai Kitayell. To see them in the ring? It’s a sight the fans are in awe of. To the surprise of many, Jessica extends her right hand out towards Yukiko. The fans quietly look on, wondering what Yukiko will do. To the surprise of everyone? Yukiko actually takes Jessica’s hand and gives it a firm shake. A smile crosses Jessica’s face. It’s only for a brief moment, but they’re ready to begin.

When Hiroki makes the signal and the bell rings? The ladies size each other up. Jessica raises her hands up to gesture for a collar-and-elbow tie-up. Yukiko complies, the two of them locking up in the center of the ring. Thus begins a display of agility, razor-sharp focus, and discipline. Yukiko pulls Jessica into a side headlock, but Jessica breaks away and goes for a spinning elbow -- which Yukiko ducks under. Yukiko aims high with a spinning heel kick, but Jessica dodges and tries to bring Yukiko down with a double-leg takedown. Yukiko’s able to maneuver out of the attempt and counter with stiff martial arts strikes. Jessica’s quick to change her stance, evading where she can and defending when she can’t. Her arms take the brunt of the strikes in her decision to block them. In retaliation, Jessica fights back with Solid Snake’s traditional Punch-Punch-Kick combo, and while Yukiko’s struck by the punches, she moves out of the way of the kick and sweeps Jessica off her feet. She immediately goes for a double footstomp, but Jessica rolls out of the way. Yukiko attempts to halt her retreat with a running soccer kick and yet Jessica barely gets out of the ring before Yukiko can connect.

Glaring, Kusanagi grabs ahold of the top rope and sends herself towards Matthews with a springboard forearm smash. Matthews is able to get out of the way and yet Kusanagi lands perfectly on her feet. The two of them duke it out with a flurry of blows, ignoring the start of Tanaka’s official count. The fans count along while they keep their eyes on the action. Kusanagi catches Matthews off guard with open-hand palm strikes and looks for a rolling neck snap, yet Matthews reverses and sends Kusanagi away with a rolling release suplex. To her surprise, however, Kusanagi’s recovery is a fast one. When Matthews jumps onto the ring apron, Kusanagi’s quick to do the same. Their strikes continue, though when they hear Tanaka’s count reach “eight!”, both of them move between the ropes and back into the ring. Matthews is swift, leveling Kusanagi with a double-knee armbreaker. But before she can force Kusanagi into the “Guardian of the Enterprise” (Cross Armbreaker Hold), Kusanagi breaks away. It’s the strangest thing, but both women go for a standing dropkick on the other at the same time. The attacks connect and they fall onto the mat, but they’re quick to get back to their feet. The fans are highly impressed and they applaud the fierce warriors.

Jessica rubs her left cheek where Yukiko blasted her with the dropkick. Yukiko grins, delighted by this contest of their strengths. This time, she’s the one who raises her arms to suggest another collar-and-elbow tie-up. Jessica sees this and accepts, locking up with Yukiko in the center once again. Being the smaller woman between the two, Yukiko is well aware of Jessica’s ability to overpower her. When this happens, Yukiko clocks Jessica in the temple once, twice -- breaking away after the second shot, and she blasts her with a spinning back elbow. Jessica staggers back, especially since it connects to the same spot, and Yukiko seizes her. She brings the stunned Jessica over and drapes her over the middle rope. Stepping through the ropes and onto the ring apron, Yukiko runs forward and kicks Jessica right in the head! “U~ōhanmā” (Draping Big Boot) connects and Jessica falls back onto the mat with a THUD. Getting back in the ring, Yukiko goes for the cover and hooks the leg, but Jessica kicks out at two.

Kusanagi takes advantage of the match, dealing out stiff strikes and Jujutsu-styled takedowns. After the second takedown, Kusanagi forces Matthews into a Fujiwara armbar. She’s attempting to exploit a weakness in the Eternal Paladin. While Matthews is hissing, she uses her power to bring them close enough to the ropes to put her right foot over the bottom one. Takana counts against Kusanagi who holds onto Matthews’s right arm, only letting go at four. Matthews tries to roll away, holding her arm, but Kusanagi’s right on top of her -- literally! Weighing down on her abdomen, Kusanagi attacks with mounted strikes. Matthews is able to block some of the shots, but only with her left arm. She then kicks Kusanagi off of her and gets to her feet, but Kusanagi snatches Matthews’s right hand and Irish whips her into one of the corners. Before Matthews can react, Kusanagi nails her with a hesitating dropkick to slam her against the turnbuckles. While Matthews slumps a little, Kusanagi seizes her right arm and looks to Irish whip her to the other side. Matthews goes in that direction, but she stops herself before she hits the corner. As Kusanagi charges after her, Matthews evades towards the ropes, watching the Demolition Angel hit the turnbuckles. Kusanagi staggers back, allowing Matthews to perform “The [Improved] Dixon Arrow” (Springboard Back-Flip Inverted DDT)! Matthews drops and covers Kusanagi, hooking the leg, but Kusanagi kicks out at two.

The fans are amazed by their contest; some of them hope it never ends. Jessica’s advantage kicks in and she keeps on the high offense. Seizing Yukiko, Jessica pulls her right into “The Rally Killer” (Arm-Trap Cross-Legged STF)! A part of Yukiko is writhing in pain but at the same time? She’s also laughing! The Protégé of Ricky Valero wrenches the hold in the middle of the ring. While Yukiko slams her right fist on the mat, this isn’t considered a tapout, simply a strangely delighted reaction. The Osaka-born Japanese wrestler pulls forward and drags them both towards the ropes despite the Queens native’s power. After nearly a grueling minute, Yukiko manages to grab the bottom rope! Jessica releases the hold without Hiroki having to start a count. Yukiko slightly kicks at the mat, a weak yet eerie cackle escaping her. Jessica lightly massages her right arm and gets to her feet. She shakes it off before reaching over to grab Yukiko. However, Yukiko suddenly snatches her right arm and delivers a double-knee armbreaker, one of the moves Jessica used on her earlier in the match. Jessica cries out in pain and yet Yukiko’s still holding her arm. Unable to pull away, Jessica’s struck by “The Steel Feather” (Black Mass Kick) at close range! There’s an audible gasp from the fans as Yukiko covers the fallen Paladin of the Guardians. Yet somehow, Jessica gets her shoulder up right before the three! Yukiko can’t believe it. Hiroki is just as surprised, but he confirms the two. The fans applaud Jessica’s tenacity.

The Angel of Deathmatches narrows her eyes before she cackles. Kusanagi pulls Matthews up -- by her right arm -- and continues to target the exploited weakness. Matthews grimaces from every strike, though she tries to fight her way out of this predicament. Kusanagi, however, retaliates with a spiking poisonrana and yet she doesn’t attempt to go for the pin. Instead, she hovers over Matthews with a devious grin and pulls her up. Placing Matthews in a familiar, deadly position, Kusanagi looks to end the match once and for all with her “Boseki Driver” (Hammerlock Tombstone Piledriver). However, Matthews just barely escapes and lands on her feet behind Kusanagi. Kusanagi turns around and throws a closed-fist punch towards Matthews, but Matthews ducks out of the way. The moment Kusanagi tries to move, Matthews connects with her husband’s “Snake Bitten” (Midair Back Snap Kick)! Kusanagi falls onto the mat with a resounding THUD. Matthews clutches her right arm and hisses through her teeth, but she makes her way to one of the corners of the ring. She climbs the turnbuckles, balances on the top ropes, and takes flight. “Silver Moon Shockwave” (630 Cannonball Senton) connects! Matthews covers Kusanagi, hooks the leg, and finally scores the three!


Yuusuke Takeda: Shiai no shōsha de aru go resseki no minasama... “Eien no Paradin” JESSICAAAAAAAAAA MATTHEWS!

Nick Hanson: Wow! What a match! Yukiko was close, but Jessica barely edged her out.

Jim Reynolds: Bah! Disgraceful! Oh, why have the mighty fallen?!

Nick Hanson: Right. Jessica’s a Guardian. You’re a fanboy of the Kingdom.

Jim Reynolds: AN HONORARY KINGDOM MEMBER, NICKY! Get it right!

We cut to the backstage area of the Hokkai Kitayell. Our image lands on that of the burning rose Crystal Zdunich. She is dressed in a kimono. She isn’t alone as she looks to her side and is able to spot her close friend and manager Zoey Madigan-Star. Crystal tries her best to force out a smile as she looks right into the lens of the camera.

Crystal Zdunich: Good evening Japan or should I say KONICHIWA!!! Can I just say that it feels absolutely amazing to be in Japan tonight?!

Zoey can tell that her friend is feeling stressed. She puts a hand on Crystal’s shoulder reassuringly.

Zoey Madigan-Star: Focus, dear. Say what needs to be said.

Crystal nods her head as she looks at her friend trying her best to keep her composure before her eyes slowly meet with that of the cameras.

Crystal Zdunich: To be honest the real reason why I wanted this time in front of a camera is to let all of you know what has been going on with me. I know I haven’t really been around these last few weeks. The truth is…

Tears begin to flow down her cheek as she has a hard time explaining herself.

Crystal Zdunich: The truth is I really haven’t been myself and am not in the right state of mind. I want to thank Zoey for offering her Las Vegas apartment to me. For those who may not realize it I had to make the hardest decision of my life. I had to walk away from both Seleana and Alexandra. I did so because I heard the pleas of everybody saying “Free Seleana” over and over again. I took a long glance in the mirror and that is when I…

More tears flow from her face to the ground. Zoey is unable to hold her peace, though, and steps forward.

Zoey Madigan-Star: Yes. Free Seleana. But did any of them care to ask Seleana, or Alexandra for that matter, what they thought? No. They passed judgment on Crystal instead. They chose what they thought was the easy target. And some of these people, a term I use loosely, who tried to call Crystal out? They have done far worse. They have no right to judge as far as I’m concerned. And in case any of them are watching and would like to try and call me onto the carpet?

By all means. Try. But if you expect me to just stand by while a friend of mine hurts? It isn’t happening. Never has, never will.

She turns to Crystal and nods again.

Crystal Zdunich: But don’t get me wrong. I thought about everything. I love both of the women in my life. I chose to free the two of them. I didn’t do so to appease them though. I did so to fix some issues in my life. Once I work on myself and fix them I know I can be a better wife, a better woman, and a better mother. It was to better myself. I will admit that sometimes my children say things or do things that hurt Seleana. They are an extension of me and after really looking over everything. My biggest issue is sometimes my self-absorbed attitude and arrogance can lead me to being a creator of abuse…

And I definitely don’t want to be that abuser. That is why during this time away I will be getting help. I will go to sessions so I am not that proponent of domestic abuse anymore.

Crystal wipes the tears out of her eyes as her expression becomes more serious.

Crystal Zdunich: This is what I am doing for the sake of my marriage and everybody can keep their nose out of it. My wife is a strong woman, Alexandra is definitely strong. Neither of them suffer from Stockholm syndrome and if they did I am sure they would have left a long time ago. Too many people wish to judge what they see on their surface but they aren’t in my home where the cameras aren’t rolling. They don’t know what gets said or what we do. I am sick and tired of people wishing to push too far. Trying to uncover something that isn’t there or finding a story. I know Cass Baumer tried to do that a while ago but it’s whatever I am over it. I know Alexandra and her put that to rest.

So with that out of the way it’s time to get back to the task at hand. It’s time to fight and prove that I belong in this company. I came up short against Marilyn and I have no problem in losing to perhaps the best woman to have stepped foot in this company. It’s time to showcase why I am an angel, and why I will gain my wings. Let’s take flight and soar above the rest. So everybody better watch out because in the meantime my focus is on wrestling and being the best athlete I possibly can be.

Zoey smiles and nods. There really is nothing more to be said.
The shot comes up on the Collision Center studios back in the States. Rayola Davine stands cross-armed and unamused at the camera.

Rayola Davine: So this comes a week later, I get it. You don't have to mention it. But better late than never as the saying goes. Yes I couldn't win against Tommy and Moe as a team. "Because Kingdom." If you believe that loud-mouthed self-important disrespectful ingrate. Yea, not exactly a colorful metaphor of a word, but an accurate one. Don't believe me?

A smirk crosses Rayola's lips.

Rayola Davine: If the Kingdom's so great, as advertised, when was the last time they respected this business? Everything the Kingdom does, they end up making it feel less important. Mary herself has the longest runs for the World title. Yes runs, plural. And what did she do to make it worth going after? Nothing, because she's part of the Kingdom, so she doesn't have to do anything because she gets propped up by the sycophants that make up the whole Kingdom.

Rayola shifts in place.

Rayola Davine: I get it, I shouldn't have room to talk as part of TRIOCS. But I went several months, just pulling on my own, no support system, no one to hold me up except the fans that I perform for. That's something Mary's forgotten, it isn't about bringing the pride to the group alone and letting the group determine your success, but holding onto and building the rapport with the fans. It's making your own legacy not attached to anything in the group. I am building that on my own. Can you say the same Mary?

Rayola winks at the camera.

Rayola Davine: Trick question. You can't do anything without your lovers in the Kingdom and the Collective saying you can. You don't have your own motivation, your own desires. You're a damn automaton. A marionette playing to be real. And it's time to cut your strings.

Rayola snips her fingers in front of her face in a scissor motion.

Rayola Davine: I watch you fall into a pile while you watch me fly.
As we come back, it seems Risa has decided against throttling Boxer for his mistake, and you can’t blame him the man is horribly distracted. It’s by far the weirdest and probably best day of his career. Instead it seems the Super Nova has opted to go back to shoveling a less violent food as fast as she can into herself. For this task, she’s demolishing a mountain of Okonomiyaki so big some darves are starting to a mine with a seriousness usually reserved for studying.

So focused is Lillith on the piles and piles of things to eat in her immediate vicinity that she seems to have missed winning the first round. Or this was an excuse to get paid to eat massive piles of food, or it’s for pride and food. Either way, she’s a contrast to the former hometown hero as she’s just maniacally popping Sushi & Sashimi into the air and eating them like they're being fired from a pitching machine and Lilith is an exuberant border collie.

At this point it’s the typical anime stalemate, both contestants putting away plate after plate after plate. Risa is in the middle of some spicy shrimp dish, when the camera pulls back to reveal Lillith pouring most of a bottle of Mad Fairy (dog) 357 hot sauce into the next bowl lined up for the Super Nova. Lilith winks at the camera and holds her finger up to her lips mouthings “shhhh.” The editing takes advantage of the lens flare traditionally caused by the wink then focuses in on Meadows making up for the momentum her prank has lost her by holding her arm out and raking a hoard of Anpan buns into the bottomless pit that surely is her stomach. The camera takes it’s eyes off that horror show for long to pull back and reveal Risa Jackson looking like got into a fight with a can of tanning spray. She’s holding onto t the bowl that Lilith spiked and glaring dagger at her opponent.

Lilith smirk as Risa chugs both glasses of water while making a sound like a fire engine.

Lilith Meadows: Bahahahahahahaha..

The camera cuts away as Super Nova glares and just stuffs an unrelenting amount of Anpan buns her mouth probably to keep it from spontaneously combusting. It hurts, but Risa is well used to spice and isn’t going to give Lillith the goddamn satisfaction.

Boxer Jones: Round goes to Super Nova!

Malaya Diyosa vs. Cass Baumer

Malaya and Cass circle, they don’t shake hands, but there’s a quick bow before they lock up. Cass has the size advantage and uses that to push Malaya back. Cass steps in grabs the arm and wrenches. Cass has the wrist controlled and transitions into a hammerlock, but Malaya drops down to her knees, rolls through, and counters the arm wrench into a quick enziguri. Malaya hits a quick jumping calf kick and follows with a swinging neckbreaker. Malaya is quick to head to the top rope and delivers a big diving crossbody for a close two count. Malaya looks for the buzzsaw kick, but Cass ducks it and hits a big German Suplex. Cass bridges into the pin, but Malaya kicks out at 2. 5. Malaya rolls back into the corner and slowly pulls herself up, but Cass is running in with a European uppercut. Malaya drops down at the last second and hits a dropkick to the knee of Cass. Malaya pops up and connects with the buzzsaw kick this time. Malaya quickly makes the cover


Malaya looks up at Priscila Mayer a bit surprised but shrugs it off, brings Cass up, and delivers a few stiff chops. Malaya hits a big Northern Lights suplex, bridges into the pin and gets a close 2 count. Malaya brings Cass up to her feet, whips her into the ropes, and runs in for a big splash, but Cass ducks under, and Malaya crashes into the corner. Cass hits a big Japanese arm drag, pops up, and connects with a big enziguri that rocks Malaya a bit. Cass takes the opportunity to recover and quickly hits a dropkick to keep Malaya woozy before she pops up, steps back and charges in, connecting with Miramira. Cass quickly makes the cover


It’s now Cass’ turn to look up at Priscilla Mayer in shock as Malaya manages to kick out. Cass decides to slow things down and grabs the leg of Malaya, she delivers a few swift kicks to the right leg of Malaya before she hits a quick jumping kneebreaker. Cass looks to take control with the Tangled web, but Malaya manages to roll through, pops up and hits a basement shotgun dropkick to Cass, dropping her down. Malaya rolls back to the ropes and pulls herself up, taking a few seconds to breathe and relax. Cass is slow to her feet and can’t counter the jumping calf kick. Cass is left stunned and Malaya quickly takes advantage with the Maximum Overdrive. Malaya covers


Malaya doesn’t bother looking up at Priscilla at all, she just brings Cass up, hits a backstabber, then a big springboard stunner to bring Cass down. Malaya looks to the corner and charges as The Socialites run down to the ring, Bianca and Vanessa jump up on the apron to distract Priscilla as Malaya jumps to the middle rope, then up to the top looking for the Butterfly Effect, but instead, she catches Danielle’s diamond scepter and falls down to the mat. Danielle drops down, and Bianca and Vanessa step back. Priscilla turns around to see both competitors down, and starts the count, but both are up around five. Malaya clutches her ribs and Cass takes that quick opening to connect with the Fact Check. Cass floats right into the pin, hooking both legs


Yuusuke Takeda: Pinfōru no kekka to shite no anata no shōsha... Kyasubaumā!

Jim Reynolds: Cass Baumer scores the win over a very game Malaya Diyosa, but you have to give the assist to The Socialites. Cass probably paid them to help her out.

Nick Hanson: Or they have some kind of grudge against Malaya Diyosa and did it completely on their own. I know Cass Baumber is not everyone’s favorite person, but she would never work with The Socialites.

Jim Reynolds: More like they would never work with her, but she still benefitted from what they did and you know that will not sit well with Malaya Diyosa.

Cass is a bit surprised, but she gives a little fist pump as Priscilla Mayer raises her hand in victory. Cass. Rolls out and gives a few fist bumps, not really caring as The Socialites slipped into the ring. The sisters stand over Malaya and Danielle points down at her with the diamond scepter. Bianca and Vanessa bring Malaya up and show that The Socialites are the true
Mean Girls as they drive Malaya down into the mat after already interfering in her match. The Socialites Stand tall as they use the numbers advantage to take down their rival once more.

We cut back to the ring and before anything can be said, a loud voice starts over the sound system.


“Chaos Is My Life” By The Exploited starts to blast out of the speakers and not long after, Johnny Towers is seen walking through the crowd towards the ring.

Nick Hanson: Oh God this guy? I have not missed him.

Jim Reynolds: Just because he made you scream like a little bitch on his first night.

Before he can reply, Towers has grabbed a microphone and rolled into the ring calling for his music to be cut off and it is.

Johnny Towers: Fucking finally! You know what?! I have been clawing at the chance to get back out here and now no one can stop me! Ya see, there has been a lot of bullshit being spread around about me during the time of the tournament by your so-called fighting champion, Damon Cross! The man who can't talk shit to someone's face even when they are behind a keyboard!

Nick Hanson: Oh please, Cross is a great champion, he has given plenty of people opportunities and this loud mouth never-- AHHHH!

His scream was due to Towers throwing a glass of water at him which he grabbed from a person in the crowd.

Johnny Towers: You know I can fucking hear ya, you muppet? Don't talk about shit you don’t know alright, cock mansion?! Now then, let me tell you all something of an inconvenient fucking truth for all you mugs! The exact fucking reason I aint been here and didnt get a chance to answer that tarts open challenge. Now you all remember before the fucking tournament, I got into a scrap with your precious world champ but we got pulled apart and I got arrested, never saw him in the cell next to me I’ll tell ya that, but I fucking digress, ever since that night till last week--

Suddenly “Committed” by One Eyed Doll blasts into full swing and Sylvia Lopez bursts out onto the stage, a look of pure anger and hatred on her face as she’s seething. She wastes little time in marching down to the ring with a purpose, all the while Towers seems to have a smug look on his face.

Nick Hanson: Well here comes the Bellevue Banshee of the Crusade, and she doesn’t look very happy, Jim!

Jim Reynolds: Since when is that cra--

The commentator is cut off as Lopez slaps her hands on the table before grabbing a microphone and rolling into the ring, coming face to face with Towers as “Committed” fades out.

Sylvia Lopez: Sylvia has heard enough!

She paces a little in front of Towers as she starts pulling at her hair.

Sylvia Lopez: You have attacked Sylvia’s family! Now Sylvia...

A sick and twisted grin grows on the face of the Bellevue Banshee.

Sylvia Lopez: Now Sylvia attacks you!

Lopez drops the microphone and suddenly throws a headbutt right between Towers’ eyes before jumping on him with a Thesz press and begins to wail down on him with a flurry of rights and lefts, even biting the man whenever she gets the opportunity.

Nick Hanson: Well this was inevitable, Jim! Sylvia never appreciates people messing with her family!

Jim Reynolds: This is an unprovoked attack from this witch, Nicky!

Towers throws Lopez off of him and gets back up to his feet.

Johnny Towers: NOW THIS IS MORE FUCKING LIKE IT!

The Bellevue Banshee gets back to her feet and charges at Towers again, but this time he is ready for her and punches her in the face, sending her crashing to the mat in pain.

Nick Hanson: What the Hell?! Oh damn it! He has those damn brass knuckles on!

Laughing, Towers rolls out the ring and grabs a couple of steel chairs, sliding them into the ring before rolling back into the ring himself. Setting up the chairs facing each other, he grabs Lopez by the hair and forces her to sit on one of them as he sits down opposite her, pointing at his chin.

Jim Reynolds: Oh what a gentleman, he's giving her a free shot.

Fuming with anger, she punches Towers in the face to which he laughs at, shouting at her to hit him harder which she does, making him laugh in her face again. She starts to get back up to attack him but suddenly there is a smashing sound as Towers pulls a small light tube out of his sleeve and smashes it across her face, making her fall again to the canvas. Towers then grabs her by the arm and lifts her back to her feet before hitting FUBAR! onto the set up chair behind him.

Nick Hanson: What the Hell?! Where did he get that weapon from?

Towers walks over and picks up a microphone before grabbing the Bellevue Banshee by the hair again and then looks up the ramp where Damon Cross and Ronnie Lester have just come out from the back.

Johnny Towers: YOU TWO FUCKING TOSS POTS STAY RIGHT THERE!

He then places his boot on the neck of Lopez.

Johnny Towers: Or I will crush this slag’s fucking throat!

They hesitate a moment and then stop at the top of the ramp.

Johnny Towers: Now then as I was saying before this dozy cow came charging in, I got something to say to you Cross! The main reason I had been away, you better ask your boy toys in charge because they can back this up, during the time you where putting out your del boy grade open fucking challenges, I was barred from the fucking building ya mug!

Nick Hanson: Oh come on, that can't be true.

Jim Reynolds: Well I can see them pulling that sorta thing.

Johnny Towers: Yeah, so why dont you go talk to them and ask why they would do that outside of them apparently wanting to protect the tournament, like I would fucking interrupt in that crap, considering some fuckwits from somehere else did enough of that! For now I'll leave you with this, I am going to be coming after you even more now, and this act right here is just the start!

He raises his boot and brings it down onto Lopez’s neck, laughing as he swiftly exits the ring and into the crowd as Cross and Lester rush to the ring.

Johnny Towers: Don’t forget this is just the fucking start, ya arse licker!

Towers then disappears as Cross calls for some help as Lopez is clutching her neck and coughing up blood.

Nick Hanson: My God! Sylvia may have suffered severe internal injuries there!

Jim Reynolds: Even I feel like Towers went too far there.

EMT’s then begin to make their way down the ramp and as soon as Lopez sees the stretcher, she begins to freak out, potentially exacerbating her neck injury as a result.

Nick Hanson: Sylvia hasn’t had very positive experiences when it comes to this sort of thing, Ronnie and Damon need to calm her down before she does more damage to herself.

Jim Reynolds: This is tough to watch.

Both Cross and Lester reassure Lopez that everything is going to be okay which thankfully calms her down and allows the medical team to place a neck brace on her before putting her onto a backboard as we cut elsewhere.
The scene comes up backstage with Abigail Lindsey and Sela-Rica Lark just now riding in on their motorcycles. They drive up and remove their helmets in tandem. Sela is the first to shake her hair free.

Sela Rica-Lark: We have to make this quick. Abigail and myself have other plans tonight and we don't need distractions like the Queen's Guard getting in our way yet again. You see, a couple months ago, the Queen's Guard ran rampant through a gauntlet. Needless to say, it didn't sit too well with Abigail, nor myself. So last week, last week was an opportunity. To remind the Queen's Guard that what they have is fleeting. Their power and dominion, shadows and spectres of real greatness. We, on the other hand, have yet to reach that mark.

Abigail Lindsey: “Sad but true. The breakdown you saw from me after I lost to Anton during the memorial might have surprised some. You’re used to the cheerful, peppy, smile on her face Abigail. The root of those dark feelings date all the way back to contenders gauntlet you, Queen’s Guard, somehow won. I repressed my rage for far too long. Thought the Memorial would help take the edge off? Spoiler alert, it didn’t. Made me realize the only way to get rid of this rage is by taking down the root cause.”

“Queen’s Guard, you’re stuck with us for a while. By the time this is all over, the noise about beholding The Kingdom will become a whisper. You people have run roughshod over NFW long enough, it’s our time now. Milisandre ripping the Silver Mountain, now rebranded Mariana Trench Championship, from Morgan was only the start. An Unnatural Force is about to consume NFW is an unforgiving storm of chaos. Playtime will be sweet. Trust us. ”

Abigail blows a kiss into the camera. Sela then takes the camera in hand, cackles maniacally before throwing it to the ground. The camera is just able to see the boots of the women walk off before the scene cuts out.

Lluvia Cane w/ Jamie Austin vs. Sela Rica-Lark w/Abigail Lindsey

The bell sounds and Lluvia meets Sela in the middle of the ring, Jamie Austin and Abigail Lindsey in the respective corners. Lluva and Selea lock-up and then Sela slips away, smirking while Lluvia glares at her. Sela turns and slaps Lluvia. Lluvia goes to punch Sela and gets caught for a Fujiwara armbar takedown. Lluvia grabs the bottom rope and the referee calls for the break. Sela releases her grip and stomps on Lluvia’s arm as she stands up. The referee admonishes her for it but Sela simply laughs. Lluvia goes to tackle Sela and Sela grabs her in a front guillotine. As they crash to the mat, Lluvia grabs the bottom rope again. The referee calls for the break and Sela shrugs, laughing again. Sela goes to release her grip and Lluvia jumps into a jackknife pin.

Sela kicks out.

Lluvia goes to hook her for another cradle but Sela hooks Lluvia’s leg for a heel hook. Lluvia grabs the bottom rope again and the referee moves in. He starts to count for the break and Sela gives it at four. Lluvia starts to come at her and Sela rolls into a cradle.

Lluvia kicks out.

Sela takes a cross armbreaker and Lluvia reaches for the bottom rope. Sela kicks her repeatedly and then rolls over into a cradle.

Lluvia kicks out.

Lluvia reverses the cradle.

Sela kicks out.

Lluvia gets up and kicks Sela in the face roundhouse-style. Sela goes down and Lluvia follows with an elbow drop and cover.

Sela kicks out.

Lluvia gets Sela up and goes for an O'Connor roll only for Sela to drop down and allow Lluvia to clothesline herself on the ropes. Lluvia staggers back and Sela jumps into a tornado ddt. Sela covers.

Lluvia gets a shoulder up.

Sela gets up and tries to stomp Lluvia but Lluvia moves so Sela hits only canvas with her foot. Lluvia hits a rising clothesline and covers.

Sela gets a shoulder up.

Sela reverses position into a roll-up that makes sure her ass is somewhat blocking the referee’ view of Lluvia’s hands. Abigail grabs Lluvia’s arms and holds them down, away from the ropes as the referee counts


Yuusuke Takeda: Kore ga anata no shōshadesu, pinfōru de, Sera...Rika...Rāku!

Nick Hanson: Now that was just dirty! Is that the only way they can win?

Jim Reynolds: You know what, Nicky? Rarely ever do we see eye to eye on anything but I have to agree. But at least Sela looked great tonight!

Jansen Myrrh: Aren’t you supposed to be in Japan?

Jansen is riding the conveyor at the airport shortly after she got off of the plane, when she notices the NFW cameraman. Behind her, on the phone, is Seo-Hyung Kwon. She holds her hand over the phone and says to Jansen.

Seo-Hyung Kwon: It’s for the show Tuesday. Just give them a few soundbites. I’m making sure we still have our rooms here. New Orleans is famous for forgetting you had a room booked. *going back to her phone conversation*. No. Not one room. Two rooms. I made a reservation for two rooms. The number two. T-W.. oh? You can spell. Please confirm.

As Kwon continues to work on making sure they have their reservations, Jansen doesn’t seem to happy to be there. Giving up the urge to punch this cameraman in the mouth, Jansen decides to go ahead and give a statement.

Jansen Myrrh: So, I got to punch that human blow-up doll, Jersyana Marconey or whatever the fuck her name is. It’s not even that fucking important to remember. She’ll be out of the fucking business in a year, probably doing porn. I beat her ass. Then I had to get on a goddamned plane and fly back to the United States for a match in Louisiana of all fucking places for a match with that backyard loser, El Diablo Barfo. But that doesn’t concern anyone in NFW, right? So let’s move on with our lives because after this match? I certainly fucking will. If I wasn’t getting paid a mint, I’d never have come back here in the first goddamned place.

Seo is still yammering away behind her as Jansen glances back at her, annoyed. Turning back to the camera, she steps off the conveyor when it comes to the end of the line and starts walking as she drags her luggage behind her.

Jansen Myrrh: So, after I beat Mercedes or whatever shitty car name she has now, fuck if I care. Her giant dildo of a boyfriend or whatever the fuck he is to her decides to put his big fat nose in my business? Listen here, Lurch. I can give two fucks about you, who you sleep with or who you disappoint on a nightly basis with your substandard bedroom moves. What I care about is fighting, so next Tuesday, when I’m back in goddamned Japan, I’m going to find you. If fucking Callaway doesn’t put us in the ring, I’m going to find you. I’m going to find you and hit you so hard, your tiny dick will get even smaller. You know what they say, the bigger the nose, the smaller the dick.

Seo-Hyung Kwon: *covering the phone again* Jansen!

Jansen Myrrh: Yeah, yeah. She hates it when I talk like that. But, Herman, facts are facts. Match or no match, you and I are going to fight. We are going to fight and then you and after I whip your ass, you can take Cousin It over there down to the barber to shave her ugly ass body hair from her portly little body. Don’t like what I’m saying? Do something about it, motherfucker. Now, if you’ll excuse me, I have a fat man to beat up.

Jansen pushes the cameraman aside and continues to walk out of the airport as Kwon hurries after her, still on the phone.

Seo-Hyung Kwon: ...two rooms on the same floor…
The scene cuts in on Casey Holliday who is looking intensely focused. She definitely has a lot of thoughts about the Ringmaster on her mind, but at the same time, she knows that her match is coming up. Her eyes indicate a level of intensity unlike no other as she tries to focus on the task at hand. She is in a bit of a reflection mode as she talks to herself a little bit.

Casey Holliday: The last time I was in the ring with the Ringmaster… I was in a bad place. The interference in and of itself… that was pretty rough on me. Losing to someone who I know in my heart I am better than more often than not was something that bruised me for some time. I hate to say that he has become a personification of some demons that still haven’t gone away but...

Casey finds herself quite surprised by the sudden appearance of someone out of the shot for the moment.

Casey Holliday: Oh. Hey. Just… I don’t know… reflecting?

Ryleigh Ruin: About the clown guy again… I’ve got to say if that’s the type of reflection you’re into, good luck and have fun with that!!

Ry giggles as she readies herself for Casey’s upcoming match. Behind her Xander Fillmore is seen off to the side failing at trying to blend into the background.

Casey Holliday: UGH! Sorry. It’s just… as a competitor, it is tough enough to move past something and then when you’re as stubborn and as hard headed as I am… a lot… it’s even harder. Prior to the tournament, losing to the Ringmaster hit me pretty hard. I lost quite a bit of confidence in the tournament because of that and that’s part of why I got off to a rough start. The worst part about that is that I was still trying to find my way in NFW and everything and… I was pretty much alone...

Xander Fillmore: That’s all and good Casey Vacation, but you’re not now and WE in TRIOCS can’t look behind ourselves any more...

Ryleigh Ruin: Relax Xan… We know Case is a bit quick to emotion much like yourself… Did you even reach out to her about her expectations for class? All of this matters because we’re all family now!

She looks up to first Xander then quickly Casey. Casey still looks slightly out of her comfort zone as she still doesn’t quite know her TRIOCS teammates just yet.

Xander Fillmore: Sorry Ry-Ry, I’m just not the one one that’s going though some dhit and I forget about that sometimes…

He gets up and walks over to Casey.

Xander Fillmore: You want me to walk out with you two?

Casey Holliday: Well normally, I am someone that goes at things alone… but at the same time, what Ryleigh said a little bit ago about family was right. I’m not going to lie to you both. The other week? When I saw the nonsense that happened with Xander during his match in the tournament final supershow? I was SO PISSED and a part of me felt bad because I felt like maybe I could’ve done something about it. I guess the point I am trying to make is, I felt some sort of… connection… with both of you before the idea of me joining TRIOCS ever came about. I may be coming off as a bit awkward to you guys right now because I typically close myself off to others, but it really is nice to know that I’m not alone in this anymore… both with my match tonight and with that whole Ringmaster situation...

Xander Fillmore: So that just sounds like a lot of words for yes?

Casey just chuckles a bit at this.

Casey Holliday: Yeah… I guess you can say that. SORRY! Just… I’m so used to riding alone and dealing with things on my own for the most part that I’m a bit more socially awkward than intended sometimes, ya know?

Ryleigh Ruin: Not at all, sis… I’ve always thrived in a team environment. You’ll see that we’ll do great things as a unit. This pack is led by a Little Monster and we now have a lone member that needs a little extra love. We’re here for ya, babe!

Casey Holliday: Thank you! That means a lot more to me than I can put in words. At least I know that if the Ringmaster tries to pull anything tonight, you both have my back. I feel like I am way more focused on this match now and that I don’t have to stress him too much. I never thought I’d say this about anyone, but I feel like with you two, I really have someone that cares about me. It’s an amazing feeling knowing that I’ll never be alone here again!

Casey is showing a little bit more of a brightened demeanor at this point, exuding some of the confidence she had accumulated during her tournament turnaround.

Xander Fillmore: Yeah, and you got a very game competitor tonight, in Asmodeus! What’s your usual prep look like? You throw hands or rather roll...

Casey Holliday: Throw hands for the most part. Look, I know what I am up against. But you’re talking to the same woman that beat Jasmine Matthews in the tournament and I know that if I can beat her, I can beat just about anyone! I’ll be good! I’m confident in that, especially with you two around!

Ryleigh Ruin: Perfect...

Casey Holliday: Alright… well… time to take care of business the way I know how to do it. It’s time to show the Ringmaster a little taste of what’s coming to him!

Casey walks out feeling a little bit more lighthearted and confident going into her match. Ryleigh and Xander are not too far behind, exiting with her as the scene fades out.
When the camera cuts back to the action there isn’t much of any. Not currently, Lilith’s empire of dishes is half on the floor and slowly being carted away by waiting staff who are happy that Brody Stevens pays folks fairly. Because they have a ton of work to do tonight. Boxer Jones looks perplexed as Lillith Meadow’s is slumped in her chair groaning. Four feet to her left, Miss Jackson is actually laying face on the table. Her own rubble of dishes being dealt with. The ladies are battered and holding stomachs that will pay for this tomorrow. Yet there’s not a scrap of food to be found, everything across three tables has met its unholy end in the jaws of these young ladies.

In the still aftermath, Lilith Meadows begins a dizzy slow giggle. The kind of mischievous, contented noise only made those who have stared into the food void so long it has looked back. And it tasted like ice-cream.

Lilith Meadows: Hehehehehehehehe.

Risa stretched out her right foot with a tired but happy groan reserved for those extremely pleased with themselves and kicked Lillith off of her chair in one straight poking motion. Like a kicking ninja.

Lilith slumped off her chair and Risa yeeted herself off of the opposite of the table with a thump and a groan. Boxer walked over, checked on both of them in turn and stood up. He shrugged, thinking for a moment as he stroked his beards.

Boxer Jones: Ladies and gentlemen this contest is a draw!

Casey Holiday vs. Asmodeus

The bell sounds and Asmodeus glares hastily at Casey. The painted demoness smiles and starts to nod as she reaches out. Casey jumps into an armbar and Asmodeus rolls into a cradle.

Casey kicks out.

Casey gets up and tries to kick Asmodeus and hits her with a flurry. Asmdoeus staggers back and Casey gives her a running forearm before taking her down and goes for mat grappling. Asmodeus rolls her over into a crucifix.

Casey kicks out.

Casey takes Asmdoeus into a headlock cradle.

Asmdoeus kicks out.

As they start up, Casey gets a waistlock and executes a bridging german suplex.

Asmodeus kicks out.

The two roll around on the mat, Casey trying to get a hold and Asmdoeus countering at every turn. Casey finally changes to a standing up position and Asmdoeus follows her. Casey jumps into a victory roll.

Asmodeus kicks out.

Casey goes for an O’Connor roll. Asmodeus reverses it.

Casey kicks out.

Asmodeus is propelled into the ropes and bounces off. Casey rolls her up.

Asmodeus kicks out.

Casey gets up and looks to catch something big on Asmodeus when suddenly, Mister Gigglesworth of the Chaos Circus stands up from next to the ring as if he’d been there the whole time and just no one saw him. Casey stares at him in shock and starts to motion at him. Mister Gigglesworth acts as if he sees nothing and Asmodeus grabs Casey. The painted demoness turns and hits the Crown of Thorns. Casey goes down hard and Asmodeus covers, as Mr. Gigglesworth makes a quick escape through the crowd before Ryleigh Ruin and Xander Fillmore can get to him.


Yuusuke Takeda: Kore ga anata no shōshadesu, pinfōru de, Asumodeusu!

Nick Hanson: That’s a win for Asmodeus but I think the Chaos Circus and Casey Holliday are just getting started!

Jim Reynolds: Oh, you better believe it!

Nick Hanson: What’s this now?

Back inside the ring, as Casey Holliday was leaving, Asmodeus stood in the center, head lowered, staring at the mat at her feet. A moment passes while Daniel Murphy’s “The Devil Inside” fades back out until only the murmur of the crowd is heard. Asmodeus stands there, not moving an inch….

Nick Hanson: What the hell’s going on, Jim?

Jim Reynolds: I don’t know, Nicky. This bitch is freaking me out.

Slowly, ever so slowly, Asmodeus starts to lift her head, directing her gaze right at the camera. The screen starts to flicker, as do the lights as an evil smile slowly starts spreading across her face.

Nick Hanson: What in the…?

Jim Reynolds: What the fuck is going on?!

Finally, the screen fills completely with static as a message appears.


When the screen clears up, the lights have gone completely out. A moment later, they come back on...and Asmodeus is nowhere to be seen….

Nick Hanson: It’s time…?

Jim Reynolds: Time for fucking what?!

The scene opens up backstage, Genesis Champion Katie Anderson is sitting in the locker room, she has on an Atlanta Braves T-shirt on over her ring attire, she is sitting in a chair with her eyes closed, she has earbuds in as she listens to music, a slight smile on her face. She finally opens her eyes and notices the camera,she smiles and removes her earbuds. She leans forward slightly.

Katie Anderson: Sorry, you caught me off guard. I'm just getting myself prepared.

She stands and stretches, she pulls the Genesis Championship from her bag and holds it in her hands, she looks down at it, she smiles softly as she runs her hand over the front before placing it on the chair she was sitting in.

Katie Anderson: This is my first time in Japan, my first time defending my title. I would be lying if I said I wasn't nervous, as a matter of fact the butterflies are working overtime right about now.

She chuckles as she continues stretching.

Katie Anderson: That doesn't mean I'm not ready for this match. Jesizka mentioned that this is her first title opportunity in two years, I know that feeling. Until I got my first shot at this title, it had been two years for me as well.

She looks into the camera.

Katie Anderson: I have overcome a lot in my career, my personal life, divorce, cocaine addiction, and various other bad decisions. I'm not complaining, I'm not telling a sob story. All of this has shaped who I am today.

Katie pulls her t-shirt off.

Katie Anderson: Jeszica will have to keep waiting for another opportunity, because.this one is about to run out. She will be coming up short, she just doesn't know it yet.

Zoey Madigan-Star: Don’t take that as a slight, Jeszika. I know full well how good you are, and not just from listening to old friends talk about the good ol’ days.

Zoey comes into view with a smile, tucking her hair behind her ear and setting a hand on Katie’s shoulder, reassuring the young woman.

Zoey Madigan-Star: You know what it’s like to come back from so much, only to struggle at first before finding new success. But so few have come back from what Katie has. Precious few take so long away from the ring, only to return and pick up right where they left off. Katie and I BOTH know what that’s about.

Zoey produces her PWE Impulse Championship and Katie her Genesis Title. The two women grin at one another and clink the belts together before Anderson stands up next to her manager and friend, Zoey draping an arm around her shoulders before draping her own title over her other arm. Katie smiles as she looks into the camera again.

Katie Anderson: Tonight is a big night for me, it's a night of firsts; my first time in Japan, my first defense… and a successful one at that. No offense, but you don't have what it takes Jaezica, not tonight anyway.

She gives Zoey's shoulder a gentle squeeze.

Zoey Madigan-Star: Pardon the pun, but this title? This IS Katie Anderson’s Genesis. This is her fresh start. And she will make the most of it. As for me? Well… I get a front row seat to a great match and a beautiful perseverance.

The two women smile and nod at each other before heading out.
The lights in the arena went black and stayed out for a good ten seconds until "Faith" by Ghost began playing. The gold lights started flashing to the beat of the song as smoke began rising up from the ramp. As the first verse began, Matt Shields stepped out and looked at the crowd. Shields was not dressed to compete, instead, he stood there in some simple black pants, a black Sapporo brewery shirt with his Haori over it, and the Gaijin Nightmare mask covering his face. Shields pointed the kendo stick down at the ring as several large bursts of fire shot up on either side of him. He stalked down to the ring, carrying his kendo stick in his right hand, dragging it along the ramp behind him, while he had a balloon in his left hand. As he reached the bottom of the ramp, he let the balloon go, flying off into the rafters. Shields moved to steps and made his way into the ring, brushing his shoes off before entering. The spotlight shines down on Shields as he raises the mask off his face. He smacks the kendo stick down on the mat and the lights go out for a bit. As the lights come back up, Matt Shields is sitting in the middle of the ring, cross-legged, kendo stick and mask laid out like a sword and helmet as he raises the mask.

Matt Shields: Kon'nichiwa Sapporo. Modotte kite yokattadesu. Anata wa ikutsu ka no subarashī kusobīru o te ni iremashita.

The Sapporo crowd gives Shields a surprisingly warm welcome and he seems to be enjoying the favorable reaction.

Matt Shields: Now for all the fucko’s watching at home who didn’t understand what I said or why these wonderful people in Sapporo or the fans in Kyoto reacted with cheers instead of boos while throwing shit at me, well that’s simple. I’m fucking huge in Japan. These people appreciate the things I can do in this ring whether it’s with a wrist lock or a kendo stick. It doesn’t matter if I’m hitting a beautiful neckbreaker or hitting someone with a chair. These fine folks here in Japan know that when I say I am the best god damn wrestler on this planet, I ain’t blowing smoke. Last week I walked into a match right up my alley, no DQ. Any weapons I wanted, any tactics I wanted, and what did I do? I OUT WRESTLEd Johnny Towers. I won’t lie, part of it was because my son asked me to. Part of it was because of a certain blonde do-gooder, and part of it was being back here. Watashi wa kono basho o nogashimashita. Nihon wa nan-nen mo no ma Watashi no daini no furusatodeshita.

The crowd respectfully claps for him as he looks down at his mask. He picks it up and raises it into the air with his left hand.

Matt Shields: This is where the Gaijin Nightmare was not only born, but where he flourished. I won titles, tournaments, trophies, and then I sought out new lands to conquer. Again I won titles, tournaments, and trophies, then I drifted around, and then something horrible happened. The titles, the tournaments, the trophies, they no longer mattered, there was nothing more than hurting people, and as you all know I am very good at that. Returning here though, I have found a new purpose. It’s time I remind everyone that the Gaijin Nightmare does not need kendo sticks, barbed wire, chairs, tables, or anything more than his talent and wrestling knowledge to completely destroy anyone placed against him. So for the rest of this tournament, no weapons, no cheap tricks, just me proving that...

Shields raises the mic up in the air and the crowd loudly yells “SHIRUDO WA ICHIBAN!? With that, The Gaijin Nightmare drops the mic and takes his mask and kendo stick before rolling out of the ring. He starts to leave, but stops and grabs the camera

Matt Shields: Give me wrestlers Callaway. I’ll show Japan, my son, and the lonely Guardian what I am really capable of.

Shields pushed the camera back a bit and made his exit with the crowd cheering him on.

Jeszika Gautier vs. Katie Anderson ©

The bell rang and the match started with Katie Anderson extending her hand for a handshake. Jeszika Gautier answered it with a little side slap. A sort of high five, her own way of showing respect before the two locked up and started joching. Jeszika got Katie into a corner, tossing her out with just her brute power while the ref started counting. She ran in for a Yakuza Kick to the kneeling champion. Katelin caught the leg and hit a Dragonscrew Legwhip, holding onto the leg and began looking for a Figure Four early on but Gautier pushed her off with her other foot. Katie stumbled just a bit and spun around. Jeszika made it to her feet and came in for a lariat but Katie nailed a huge Gamengiri to catch Jeszika in a rollup.


Katie got right up and pulled Jeszika into a suplex hold but Gautier fought out of it only to be pulled back into a DDT clutch but before Katie could follow through, Jeszika grabbed Katie around the waist to hit a big Northern Lights Suplex, bridging for a cover.


Yuusuke Takeda: Nokori 10-bu!


The two women got up to their feet, getting heated at each other in the moment of battle and got into a little shove match that escalated into a strike off. The two women laid into each other, rocking one another back and forth. Jeszika feigned another forearm but hit Katie in the ribs with a kick, then hit the ropes to come in for a lariat but Katie reversed into a Popup Powerbomb, flattening Jeszika onto the mat. Katie immediately followed with a Standing Moonsault and hooked the leg.



Yuusuke Takeda: Nokori 5-bu!

Katie picked Jeszika up again and whipped her into the ropes to go for a Tilt-A-Whirl Slam but Jeszika dropped low into a Bodyscissors takedown, getting a cover that Katie immediately got her hand on the ropes for. Jeszika popped up, waiting for Katie to come up onto a knee where she nailed her with a Superkick. Gautier then hit the ropes and came back in at the kneeling champ for a running, low, jumping Double Footstomp that flattened Katie back onto the mat. Jeszika picked Katie up and set her up for the Fatale-ity (Code Red) but Katie was able to think fast and hit a Back Body Drop which Jeszika somehow landed on her feet, safely and stumbled into the ropes. As Katie turned, Jeszika charged in for another attack but Katie popped her up off the mat into a Spinning Spinebuster!! This left Jeszika rocked as she rolled over onto all fours with Katie ready and waiting before The Beautiful One came in for the Bad Street Blues (Curbstomp) and dropped down into a cover!


Yuusuke Takeda: Kore ga pinfōru ni yoru anata no shōshadeari, soredemo NFW Jeneshisu Chanpiondesu... Utsukushī hito, Keiti...Andāson!

Nick Hanson: What a main event, folks! Congratulations to Katie Anderson on her first official title defense!

Jim Reynolds: I’ll give it up for both hotties, Nicky!

Nick Hanson: Of course you will, Jim. Folks, we’re gonna take a short break - our last one in fact - then we’ll be back for a big - excuse me - THE big announcement, from General Manager Luthor Callaway!

Jim Reynolds: Ohhhhh, I’m curious, Nicky!

As the show returns from its final commercial break, General Manager Luthor Callaway stands in the ring with a microphone. The Sapporo crowd are wrapping up their applause for what was a great show. Yuusuke Takeda stands by with his own microphone, where he serves as a translator to the audience.

Luthor Callaway: Thank you, thank you! Hell of a crowd, y’all are. We appreciate it!

Yuusuke translates and the crowd returns the kindness with cheers and applause before Luthor continues.

Luthor Callaway: Now, without further adieu, y’all know I like to get right down to business. So...allow me to welcome to the ring...the New Frontier Wrestling, World Heavyweight Champion…”The Redeemer”...Damon Cross!


It starts with the chorus of State of Mine’s “Rise”, but quickly lapses into the hard-hitting “Knights of the Cross” by Grave Digger! Damon Cross comes out onto the stage in a rather flashy gold suit, World Heavyweight Championship draped over his shoulder and his wife Danielle Debaillion on his arm! Flanked by Ronnie Lester and Leina Rael-Debaillion, the foursome stops at the top of the ramp as Damon holds the belt up high, the other members of the Crusade getting a warm welcome as well, same as the champion! Sylvia Lopez is conspicuous by her absence, owing to the assault on her earlier in the evening by Johnny Towers.


They make their way to the ring, meeting the hands of the respectful-yet-boisterous Japanese fans on their way. Damon is up on the apron first, followed by Ronnie, both of them holding the ropes for Danni and Leina. There’s a certain pall over them due to the earlier assault, but the Crusade are nonetheless determined to see the moment through. Once inside, they stand together, the belt held up once again before Damon again drapes it over his shoulder and the music dies down. Once the music fades out and all pleasantries - handshakes and the like - have been exchanged, Luthor raises his microphone again.

Luthor Callaway: Damon… Damon, Damon, Damon.

Luthor smiles and shakes his head.

Luthor Callaway: You’re a bad man, son. You’re a bad man, for sure. I’ve watched you prove it ever since the first time you stepped into an NFW ring. Even before then, when we were scouting for talent and I saw you doing your thing on tapes over in HYBRID, I looked at Steve and I said…”him.”

Luthor animates his point, pointing to Damon. Damon, gesturing to himself a bit comically with a wink and a grin, gets another reaction from the Sapporo crowd.

Luthor Callaway: We want him. We need him. We need The Black Ronin. Of course, we didn’t get the Black Ronin for long. He soon became The Redeemer. You came here as a new man and you rose above already high expectations. People have been, as you call for them to do, saying your name from the very beginning. You walked into this company, you walked into Collision, you started kicking ass and now for almost seven months, as it stands, you’ve been at the top of the brand, taking on any and all comers. Through trial and tribulation, Damon, you have proven yourself to be the real… fu--

He pauses and looks at little Leina, cracking a smirk before looking back to Damon again. Ronnie and Damon both chuckle.

Luthor Callaway: You’re the real deal, kid. Sincerely. Let’s hear it for him again!

Luthor leads the audience in a round of thunderous applause for the World Heavyweight Champion before motioning to Damon that the floor is his to speak.

Damon Cross: Sapporo! Attakai hakushu arigatōgozaimasu! Soshite, shōtotsu e yōkoso!

Now they just get louder, being greeted by the champion in their own language. Seems that Damon didn’t forget the conversational Japanese he learned back in the day training with the Thunder Demon!

Damon Cross: I think it’s safe to say things started a bit… acrimoniously with us, Luthor. I came off like a spoiled punk more than once. I let adversity get the better of me, too. But mistakes are to be learned from. And considering that I’m a two-time World Heavyweight Champion, having successfully defended this belt for the better part of six months? It’s safe to say that I have learned… and learned well!

The Crusade applauds at this, Luthor nodding as if to say that that’s exactly the truth.

Damon Cross: I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again. Right now, this very moment? NFW is where it’s at. We have some of, if not THE, best wrestlers on the planet doing what they do best twice a week. Doesn’t matter if you’re talking about Collision or Trauma. And lately, a lot of folks want to challenge that attitude. We won’t name names, though...

Lots of boos from the normally-respectful Japanese fans, with Ronnie making expressions of distaste. Even Danni wrinkles her nose up at the thought. Leina, though, is itching for a scrap, cracking her knuckles as she stands next to Damon.

Damon Cross: We WILL say this, though: if you doubt that we’re the best, like we say we are? You just go knock on that back door and ask to see the toughest wrestlers in the business. Myself and the Crusade? We’ll hold the door for you… and close the ambulance after they wheel you inside of it once the realization comes that every word I’ve spoken is God’s own truth! But don’t think that doesn’t go for people who are already a part of the roster. There’s more than enough room under the learning tree to go around… even if we have to tear off a branch and beat the lesson into you!

Without question he’s alluding to Johnny Towers! The glower on Damon’s face is a far-removed sight compared with the smile he had on just a moment ago! While Ronnie and Danni’s expressions are soured by disdain, Leina walks up to Luthor and tugs on his black leather jacket. So as to not temporarily extinguish Damon’s fire, she reaches a hand up for the Collision General Manager’s microphone instead. Pausing, Luthor, almost half humored, hands his mic down to Leina. The fans are quite fascinated by this and they grow quiet. With her free hand, she lifts up her golden mask and then she brings the mic to her mouth.

Leina Rael-Debaillion: Sup, Sapporo?

There’s an immediate pop for the representation. A smile briefly rises on her face before turning back into an angry scowl.

Leina Rael-Debaillion: Yo. I don’t like bullies. Don’t matter who they are or where they’re from. You f*ck with family? Johnny-boy, you done f*cked up. You tryna make yourself big and tough by talkin’ mad sh*t and pickin’ fights. You came after Pops in the middle of Cruel Summer. Even when you got your a** handed to you, you STILL talkin’ mad f*cking sh*t? Now you go and hurt my Aunt Syl? You’re a dead man walkin’ and the Crusade is gunnin’ for your whack a**.

It’s… cute. Cute, humorous, and yet somehow intimidating! The fans are eating it up. Leina looks up and notices her mother’s eyes on her. Danni holds her hand out for the mic. Leina pouts and hands it over. To her surprise, she’s given a fresh anpan bun -- to which she’s quick to unwrap and nibble on. Tummy ache be damned! Danni shakes her head with a giggle before she raises the microphone. Before she can say a word, however, the fans are going absolutely INSANE with cheers. She smiles brightly at them before speaking up.

Danni Deballion: It’s so nice to be back.

They offer her applause. She flashes a grin.

Danni Deballion: In Japan, wrestling is treated with the utmost respect. It is a sport of great honor. For Johnny Towers to do what he did to Sylvia… he’s not going to get away with it. I won’t-- we won’t let him. Sylvia is my family. She’s our family. I’ve known her for a while and I know how strong she is. When she’s back up, she’s gonna kick his butt! It’s just a matter of time.

She gauges the fans and they’re completely behind her. Even in her current position, she’s still the Pink Sugarplum Fairy. They seem to be waiting in anticipation for something -- from her. Danni glances down at her daughter, who swallows the bite of anpan bun in her mouth, and the two of them shout into the mic.

Danni Deballion & Leina Rael-Debaillion: OOH RAH!

The fans echo this with the highest enthusiasm! Ever so amused, Luthor calmly takes the mic back from Danni when she hands it back to him. He brings the microphone up to speak again.

Luthor Callaway: Well, now! Strong words with plenty of backbone behind them to go all around! Love that passion, y’all. So, without further adieu, how about we--
Luthor doesn’t get a chance to finish his words before the PA system comes to life with radio static. Akin to someone trying to adjust the frequency on an old 1950s HAM radio. Rather than seem upset, Luthor’s eyebrows raise and he turns towards the stage while an old man’s voice can be heard, singing rather lively through the speakers.


Jim Reynolds: Nicky? What in the blue, backwoods, country fuck is this?

Nick Hanson: I, uhh….I have no idea...

Once the static wrought, bluegrass intro fades out, those in the ring stand by as a clearer, electric guitar riff kicks in and the all too familiar “Behold The Kingdom” banner fills the tron screen. There’s a mixed reaction from the Sapporo crowd - between amusement, boos, and confusion.

Nick Hanson: Wait, what? The Kingdom?

Jim Reynolds: Who in the...HOLY SHIT!!!

Jim Reynolds screams into his headset just as Jesse James Dupree of Jackyl’s voice starts on the first verse of “Heaven Don’t Want Me (And Hell’s Afraid I’ll Take Over).” There’s an uproar of shocked reactions as “The Man Who Feels No Pain” Tren Descarrilado comes walking out onto the stage in his telltale all black attire: jeans, merchline t-shirt, biker boots and leather jacket. Ronnie Lester physically takes a step back, rubbing his eyes, while Leina is equal parts excited and concerned, a dual reaction that Danni matches. Damon, on the other hand, hitches up the title a little more and cracks a smile.

Nick Hanson: Are you kidding me?!

Jim Reynolds: No fucking way!!!!!!

Nick Hanson: There is a Train Wreck in the Hokkaido Arena, ladies and gentlemen!

Jim Reynolds: Hooooly shit, Nicky! He’s back!! He’s fucking back!! I didn’t think we were ever gonna see him again!!

As Jackyl continues to blast through the speakers, Tren reaches the end of the walkway and pauses for a moment where he and Damon just stare right back at each other. Instinctively, the World Heavyweight Champion has shifted his position to put Danni and Leina directly behind him shortly before Luthor steps back and motions them over to him, just in case. Despite Leina’s protests, Danni brings them both over to Luthor. It’s been a long time; she’s not taking any chances. Tren takes a brief, sudden rush forward, just enough to jump up onto the apron where he pauses again. He reaches up and slowly removes his sunglasses, tucking them into his jacket before stepping into the ring.

Nick Hanson: Ohhhhhh man...what are we gonna see here? I hope nothing pops off!

Jim Reynolds: I’m still in shock that I’m seeing this! Look at him! Last we saw that man, he could barely walk out of the back parking lot in Chicago!

Nick Hanson: Damon Cross is watching Tren Descarrilado like a wolf ready to defend his territory!

Jim Reynolds: And Tren’s watching him like a bigger wolf looking to take over! HAHA!!!

Once in the ring, Tren crosses the distance and steps right up to Damon, putting the two practically nose to nose. There’s a tense moment as Tren stares right into Damon’s eyes and Damon stares right back. Everyone watches the two as they stand like statues at first. Then, as the credits to the show begin to fade in at the bottom of the screen, both men slowly start to form anticipating smirks on the battle looming in their future. Sapporo continues to go wild as Tren and Damon grin like a couple of battle hungry warriors with unfinished business...and we fade out….