Jay Randall defeats Trent King with The Eyes of the South.

PIC versus Mickey LeBlanc is ruled no contest when the debuting Lucius Pendragon interfered, hitting his Aptitude Surge brainbuster on both men.

A White and Red Hummer pulls up outside. The door flies open and out steps Marvelous Mario Maurako. He stands there with a giant smile on his face.

Triple M: It feels so good to be home. Ready or not Minneapolis here I come!

A skinny guy with long blonde hair walks by in a nice pin-stripped suit. He pushes his way past Mario Maurako and keeps walking.

Triple M: Hey you little punk. I’ve eaten bigger steaks for breakfast then you.

The skinny guy turns around and faces Mario, revealing himself to be Johnny Elite.

Triple M: What the hell are you doing here?

Johnny goes to speak but Mario immediately cuts him off.

Triple M: I fired your ass last week. You have no business being here. So turn your ass around and march right back to your bicycle that you probably rode here.

Johnny Elite: For your information Mario I have a job interview. So if you will excuse me, I have more important places to be.

Johnny Elite walks ignoring Mario.

Triple M: Pfft… an interview. Probably to set up the ring or something. Nah that would be too much of a risk. NLW would get their pants sued off by everyone when it collapses. Ah I know… he’s got to be the new Popcorn vendor.
Triple M laughs and walks away from the Hummer as the scene fades.

“Game On” by Discipline begins to play as the words “NLW” flash across the screen, followed by images of the last Uprising, where Kevin Heat, TJ Arrington, Brad Dalton and “Venom” Xavier Lux all advanced in the Path of Destiny tournament. The, clips from the main event show, with Triple M emerging victorious as the new Anarchy X champion thanks to the interference of the last Anarchy X champion The Ice Man. The scene then cuts to ringside, with Caelan Tyler and “The Real Deal” Jake Steel.

Caelan Tyler: Hello and welcome to tonight’s edition of Uprising, and man do we have a show for you today!

Jake Steel: Damn right, we got Ice Man taking on Annie Alvarez, Triple M taking on Pete Parker and Kylo and The Phoenix taking on Charles Minister.

Caelan Tyler: Let’s not forget the two Path of Destiny matches, where Brad Dalton will be taking on “Venom” Xavier Lux and in our main event Kevin Heat will be defending his Legacy championship against TJ Arrington!

The cameras switch to the parking lot as a black BMW pulls up and slows to a stop. For a moment, nothing happens. Then, out of the driver’s side door steps a disheveled man in a dirty button-down shirt, not tucked, and khakis. Looking slightly out of place, he looks like a dirty Mexican – and, no, that is not a racial slur. He actually is a Mexican man with considerable stubble who looks as though he hasn’t showered, combed his hair or washed his face in a few days (even if it probably isn’t true). The unfamiliar man trudges over to the back-passenger door and opens it, blocking the passenger from view. As he steps away, Kevin Heat is revealed wearing an orange-and-red, pin-striped button-down, tucked, with blue jeans. Probably not as formal as he thinks it is, but it works.

Driver: Shiz, main. What you got me drivin’ the car and wearin’ this shiz for?

Kevin Heat: Gotta look impressive, Pablo! Tonight’s a special night and everything better go according to plan… Everything’s ready, right?

Pablo: Yeah, yeah. All your shiz is ready, main, except the –

Kevin Heat: SHH!!

Kevin covers the other man’s mouth dramatically, but it is shoved off immediately.

Kevin Heat: Do you have any IDEA what would happen if someone HAPPENED to be listening in and found out about what I’ve got planned?! It’s a secret, Pablo! You can keep secrets, can’t you?

Pablo: Whateva, main, but when you gonna –

Kevin Heat: SSSHHHH!! When I said I would, Pablo! You gotta be more patient.

Pablo: You gotta do what you said you was gonna do, main.

Kevin Heat: You hold up your end of the bargain and I’ll hold up mine…

Kevin leads the way towards the entrance doors with Pablo in tow, wiping a hand down his face and repetitively looking over each shoulder.

Pablo: This is crazy, main. You’re f*ckin’ crazy…

Kevin Heat: I’m the Legacy Champion, Pablo. I’m allowed to act a little crazy! What’s your excuse?

Pablo glares at him and stops in place.

Pablo: If you didn’t know… what you knew, main, I’d punch you in the f*cking face.

Kevin stops as well, turning to smile at Pablo. He walks over to him and brushes unseen dirt from Pablo’s shoulder.

Kevin Heat: But I do. And unless you want security of the police on your ass like spots on a leper, you’ll keep to the plan, got it?

Pablo: Leopard.

Kevin Heat: What?

Pablo: It’s spots on a leopard, main. Shiz…

Kevin Heat: …What is?

Pablo stares at him in disbelief. Kevin stares back, dumbfounded. Pablo finally looks toward the sky, shakes his head disapprovingly, and continues the walk from moments before.

Pablo: Puta! ¿Es este mi castigo? Ay, dios mio…

Kevin Heat: …What?! What did you say? You come back here and translate or I’ll… Damn it!

Kevin trails after him, yelling while doing so.

Caelan Tyler: Well that was, um, interesting…

Jake Steel: Wonder what the hell that’s all about…

The camera switches to Jack Sullivan's office. The office of the Sinister Superman is filled with photos of his past glories, a framed version of his Bills jersey and a mounted on the wall is the official judgment saying that the NLW is all his. The shadows of the room are more distinguished than usual, the overhead light while shining bright can't seem to penetrate the darkness that hangs in the office. Jack's voice is heard as he screams at one of is many underlings.

Jack Sullivan: What the hell do you mean 'Paco isn’t here tonight”?! I need to talk to him about doing that “Books of Tape” series! “The Drinkin’ Timebomb reads “Tuesdays with Morrie”” is gonna fly off the damn shelves! Find him damnit!

He seems to mutter to himself.

Jack Sullivan: So hard to get good help these days...

He turns to the corner of the room where the darkness clings.

Jack Sullivan: So what to do you think?

A contract flies out from the darkness and lands on Sullivan's desk. Sullivan picks it up and smiles.

Jack Sullivan: Excellent... I think...

Jack turns back to the corner to find that light once again reaches the corners of the room and his companion is gone.

Jack Sullivan: I really hate how you do that.

Jack throws the contract back on the desk and walks out as the camera zooms in on the signature on the contract. There are two signatures in distinctively different styles:

The Black Phoenix Chase Roberts

Jake Steel: Well that was freakin’ creepy.

Caelan Tyler: Did you hear that though Jake, Paco’s not here!

Jake Steel: So? Don’t care!

“God save the Queen. The fascist regime,” snarls Johnny Rotten. The Sex Pistols explode through the speakers as Charles Minister marches down the ramp, his arm raised in a Nazi salute. The crowd boos unanimously as he makes his way to the ring. With his customary stiff-upper lip Minister marches into the ring.

Zach King:The following match is scheduled for one fall! Making his way to the ring, from London, England, weighing in at 170 pounds… CHARLES MINISTER!

Caelan Tyler: Minister looks ready to prove himself here after losing his Path of Destiny match last Uprising to Kevin Heat.

Jake Steel: Crickey.

Caelan Tyler: …Um, Minister is British, not Australian.

Jake Steel: …You mean there’s a difference?

Caelan Tyler: Yes Jake, there is…

The echoes of wind blowing fill the arena, followed by the whine of an electric guitar as Bon Jovi's 'Blaze of Glory' hits. A few moments later, the instrumental ends as Jon Bon Jovi sings, a capella:

Wake up in the morning and I raise my weary head,
Got an old coat for a pillow, and the earth was last night's bed.
I don't know where I'm going, only God knows where I've been,
I'm a devil on the run, a six-gun lover, a candle in the wind....

Then, as the instruments flare up again, a plume of fire erupts at the top of the aisle, and as it dies one can see the figure of a rather large man walking deliberately to the ring. It is at this point that the introduction is made.

Zach King: And his opponent, from The End of Nowhere, weighing 365 pounds... THE PHOENIX!

Phoenix's face is simply a mask of concentration as he adjusts the straps on his red fingerless gloves. As he reaches one of the stairs to ascend to the apron, he stops, takes a deep breath, and lets out a primal scream to the heavens before climbing the stairs. He then enters the ring, bouncing off of the ropes on each side to stretch out a bit before the match starts.

Caelan Tyler: There’s The Phoenix, who no doubt feels he should be the Anarchy X champion if not for the actions of The Ice Man.

Jake Steel: Yeah right, Triple M never would’ve tapped.

Caelan Tyler: You never know.

The bell rings as both men move out of their corners warily, The Phoenix stretches his arms while Minster looks at his opponent with disgust. Charles wipes his feet on the mat and points at Phoenix while giving the referee a look like “you expect me to wrestle against this?”, the referee just yells at him to fight while The Phoenix glares at him and hold out his hand to lock it up, while the crowd begins to boo at the Englishman. Charles goes to lock up but then suddenly backs up, shaking his arm as if he suddenly has a cramp as the crowd begins to boo even louder. He turns to scream at the crowd to “shut up”.

Caelan Tyler: Charles is taunting the crowd here, although it would probably do him more good to pay attention to his opponent than the crowd.

Jake Steel: Charlie is a professional, he can handle it.

The Phoenix shakes his head and charges, clearly having enough of Minster’s delay tactics. But the Englishman hears the big man coming and swiftly ducks out of the way, but his attempt to catch the big man off guard with a spinning back fist is unsuccessful as The Phoenix catches the errant arm in his big paws.

Caelan Tyler: The Phoenix has gotten control of the match here, it seems foolish for Charles to try to stand toe to toe with someone who’s got such a size advantage on him.

Jake Steel: Well, your mom is foolish to try to stand toe to toe with someone.

Caelan Tyler: Oh God please don’t start that again.

The Phoenix quickly twists Minster’s arm into a wristlock, cranking on his arm with all his might. Minister grimaces in pain, before trying to roll through the wristlock, he rolls then kips up, an impressed grin on his face as he finds his way out of the wrist lock. Unfortunately that smile is wiped off by a vicious clothesline by The Phoenix.

Caelan Tyler: Nice clothesline there by Phoenix, really caught Charles off guard.

Minster bounces back to his feet and sneers at the big man as he checks his lips’ blood and then brushes off some imaginary dust from his shoulder. His eyes take on a different shade and he suddenly seems to take his opponent more seriously. The two men lock up and battle for the upper hand.

Caelan Tyler: Test of strength here, although it doesn’t seem like this is a very bright idea on Charles’ part.

Jake Steel: No kidding, I think that new finisher that Heat hit him with last Uprising knocked a few things loose. Come on Chuck, you’re smarter than that!

After a moment of struggling The Phoenix uses his larger girth to his advantage and over powers Minister, as his opponent swears in frustration as he is forced down on one knee. The Phoenix quickly changes his grip and slams Minister down with a quick body slam. As Charles arches his back in pain, The Phoenix takes one second to enjoy the cheers of the fans before laying the boots to his opponents’ right leg.

Caelan Tyler: The fans seem behind Phoenix here, which is pretty unusual.

Jake Steel: Bah, the fans just have bad taste is all. I mean, they cheer Venom, what the hell do they know?

Caelan Tyler: More that you it seems.

Jake Steel: Not likely!

Minister tries to sit up but is met with a vicious kick to the face that sends him back down again. The Phoenix runs to the ropes, and then leaps in the air, attacking the right knee with a double stomp! Charles grabs at his knee in pain, and struggles to the corner to escape the game plan of the big man.

Caelan Tyler: Looks like Minister has had enough of this.

Jake Steel: So have I, this “technical wrestling” crap is a snoozefest. Wake me up when it’s over.

The big man reaches down for his prey, but receives a poke in the eye for his trouble. The referee warns Charles but he just moves further away from the blinded Phoenix as he tries to get his leg working again.

Caelan Tyler: Minister is still trying to get back into this, and he doesn’t seem to care how he does it either.

The Phoenix blinks as he tries to clear his vision. Charles moves to attack, clubbing him on the head with a forearm smash, and then following it up with a European uppercut that sends The Phoenix stumbling back to the ropes. The Phoenix bounces offer the ropes still trying to see his opponent and receives a kick to the stomach and is hoisted in the air and slammed down onto the mat with Leg Hook Belly-to-belly Suplex.

Caelan Tyler: Minister going for a suplex here, but will he be able to get a man of Phoenix’s size up with what’s been done to his leg here?

Jake Steel: Zzzz…

Caelan Tyler: Oh you have got to be kidding me.

But the strain on Charles’ leg of The Phoenix’s weight is apparent as both men lay on the mat. Charles struggles to get to his feet again, stretching his leg and slapping it trying to get the blood flow back to the effected area.

Caelan Tyler: Wake up Jake!

Jake Steel: Is the match over…?

Caelan Tyler: No, but you’re paid to call it and you need to be calling it.

Jake Steel: Says you.

Caelan Tyler: No, says your contract.

Minster returns to his prone opponent, reaching down to pick him up, but The Phoenix’s suddenly moves. He spins his body around and attacks Charles vulnerable leg with a dragon screw leg whip. Charles cries out in pain as The Phoenix bounces to his feet and drags up the limping Minster to his feet. He grabs the Englishman’s right leg and lifts him up in the air, slamming Charles’ knee across his leg. Minster falls to the ground clutching at his leg again as The Phoenix seems to circle around for the kill.

Caelan Tyler: Looks like Phoenix is getting ready to finish this thing.

The crowd roars with approval as The Phoenix motions for his finisher, as his opponent crawls for the ropes. The Phoenix grabs hold of Minister’s injured leg, but the Englishman shakes him off and continues to crawl. The big man goes for the leg again, but Minister has now reached the ropes holding on to the ropes for dear life while the referee tells The Phoenix to back off.

Caelan Tyler: Minister is able to get to the ropes, but it doesn’t look like he’s in any position to fight back.

Jake Steel: Yes, I’d like a large hand tossed pineapple pizza, with a 2 liter of…

Caelan Tyler: What the hell are you doing Jake?!

Jake Steel: Ordering Little Caesar’s, want some crazy bread?

Caelan Tyler: …Actually yes I would.

The Phoenix pushes past him and grabs for the leg again. He holds on and tries to shake Minister of the ropes but is unable to pry him loose. Minster swivels and lands a well timed boot to The Phoenix’s face. His opponent stagers back while Charles gets back to his feet, he presses his advantage and lands to vicious elbows to the big man. He hooks in his arms and throws himself back in desperation to end the fight before he receives anymore damage to his leg. He spikes The Phoenix’s head into the mat and rolls him over quickly going for the pin.

1…

2…

Kickout!

Caelan Tyler: Nice kickout there by Phoenix, who doesn’t look nearly worn out enough to be pinnable.

Jake Steel: They said 30 minutes on the food.

Minster slaps the ground in frustration and mounts the big man, trying to keep the fight on the ground. He lands several hard fists to the face, as the referee yells at him for using closed fists as The Phoenix rolls over to defend himself. He stands with Minster still attached to him back. The Englishman attempts to clinch in a choke but is flattened as the big man simply falls backwards!

Caelan Tyler: Nice counter by Phoenix!

The Phoenix hooks the injured leg and goes for the pin, seizing on the moment as the referee counts.

1…

2…

Barely kicks out!

Caelan Tyler: Minister is just barely able to get the shoulder up there.

Jake Steel: It’s gonna take more than laying on Minister to take him out of the match.

Minister is lying on his back gasping for breath as The Phoenix shakes the cobwebs from his head. Minister seems to suddenly get a last burst of energy as he reaches under the kneeling Phoenix and rolls him up!

Caelan Tyler: Quick roll-up by Minister, he could steal it!

The referee slides into place!

1…

2…

Kickout!

Jake Steel: Damnit they need to finish this already!

The Phoenix gets up angry and frustrated and charges at Minister, the Englishman ducks and pushes the big man into the corner. The Phoenix’s head bounces off and he staggers back into another roll up by Minister, this time with his feet on the ropes!

1…

2…

The referee sees Charles’ cheating and kicks his legs off the ropes. The Englishman fights with the referee for a moment, before turning and charging at The Phoenix. He receives a slap echoes around the arena for his troubles. He snarls and charges again this time he is rocked by another nasty slap.

Caelan Tyler: Ouch!

Jake Steel: Now that’s just disrespectful.

Minister’s anger grows as he screams bloody murder before charging one last time. But this is one time too many as The Phoenix catches Charles’ swinging arm, pulling him down with a swift armbar takedown. In the blink of an eye, The Phoenix moves to Charles’ weakened leg, he grapevines his legs around and clinches in the Blaze of Glory!

Caelan Tyler: It’s Phoenix’s finisher, this could be it!

Minister taps almost immediately not wanting to damage his leg further by resisting and calling out in pain. The Phoenix stands with satisfied smile on his face and the referee raises his hand in victory.

Caelan Tyler: Phoenix with an impressive victory here, making Minister tap out.

Jake Steel: Whatever happened to the Chuck I remembered? The guy who won…

Zach King: And your winner… THE PHOENIX!

Tonight had been a good night for Jay Randall; the New Legends of Wrestling rookie had won his first match against Trent King, and not only that but he’d won it convincingly as well. In truth he had expected things to be a little tougher, given that it was his first match in NLW and all, but he wasn’t going to complain. We find “The Vagabond” backstage new, enjoying a little R&R in the NLW Arcade.

Caelan Tyler: There’s Jay Randall! An impressive win for him over Trent King tonight…

Jake Steel: Who on Earth is Jay Randall and why haven’t I heard of him before?

Caelan Tyler: Eh!?! Weren’t you watching his match earlier? If you were then you’d know!

Jake Steel: Sorry, I tend not to pay much attention when the newbies are on…

Jay Randall: Goddamn! This game is bull-SHIT! Who the hell is this Josh Allen bitch, and how did he score 144?!

In frustration Jay – who has slipped out of his ring attire and into a black Lynyrd Skynyrd t-shirt and loose-fitting blue jeans - slams his fist against the “Funkypong” machine he was standing at as the number “12” flashes up on the screen. Across the room Murrr – NLW janitor supreme – sniggers at the misfortune of the NLW rookie. Hearing the mocking laughter of the janitor, Jay flashes an unimpressed glance at him, prompting Murrr to scurry off into a corner of the room to pretend to do some work.

Jay Randall: That’s right bitch, you CLEAN that floor!

Murrr – who it would seem is fast becoming a fixture of the NLW Arcade room – sneers at “The Vagabond” who strolls out of the room and into the connecting corridor.

Jake Steel: Do you see what I mean, Caelan? Even the janitor doesn’t like this dude!

Caelan Tyler: What!? Have you even met that “Murrr” guy? He stinks of haggis and speaks like a cheap imitation of Rowdy Roddy Piper! Trust me, if you came into close contact with the guy, you’d want to put him down too…

Jake Steel: Haggis!?! EUGH! Fair enough then…

As Randall steps into the corridor the first thing he hears is the loud, booming voice of an enthusiastic-sounding gentleman.

Voice: …just keep it in mind. Crack is whack. How about making Mr. K-tastic your anti-drug?

Woman: But I don’t do drugs.

Voice: Admittance is the first step. Get yourself sobered up and we’ll go grab a beer or something. But in the mean time and the between time, consider me for President and vote Kylo on November 4th.

“The Vagabond” looks up to see NLW newcomer, wrestling veteran and all-round awesome dude Kylo as the campaigning grappler slaps a rosette onto the shirt of a female NLW backstage worker. With a cheesy grin Kylo shakes the hand of the bemused woman before immediately setting off down the hallway – in Jay’s direction.

Jake Steel: Oh god, not this idiot! Could this part of the show get any duller!?!

Unsure of what to make of Kylo, Jay keeps his head low as he walks onwards, hoping that he won’t be noticed. However there is no such like for “The Vagabond,” who stops in his tracks as his fellow NLW newcomer addresses him.

Kylo: How you doing kid?

Kylo extends his hand towards Jay, who gingerly grabs hold and shakes it.

Jay Randall: I’m alright I guess…

Kylo: Allow me to introduce myself! My name is Kylo, leader of The Pity Party and King of all things awesome! And you are?

Jay Randall: Jay Randall, I’m kinda new here.

Kylo: Me too… that’s great. So tell me then Mr. Randall, what do you make of the forthcoming presidential elections? By that I mean, who are you voting for?

Randall takes a few seconds to ponder his answer, knowing the reputation of the former ICWF and OCW wrestling.

Jay Randall: You know what? I haven’t really decided yet, it’s still early.

Kylo: Hmmm. You’re not a very big kid; you don’t look like these beef head performance enhancing users. You know how bad that stuff is?

Jay Randall: I…

Kylo: Let me tell you, it’s bad.

Kylo snaps his fingers and Eriq Mobely seemingly pops up out of nowhere with cardboard stand ups of Triple M and Pete Parker. Kylo then pulls a pointer out of his pants and extends it.

Kylo: These two guys are perfect examples of what can happen to you if you use steroids or HGH. The first thing…

Kylo puts his pointer on the neck of Triple M and alternates back and forth between that stand up and the Pete Parker one.

Kylo: You see this? Look at the size of their necks and heads. GINORMOUS! This isn’t natural! This isn’t human! Look at the veins protruding, it’s like their screaming to escape. But that’s not all.

Kylo puts his pointer behind the Triple M stand up.

Kylo: While you can’t see it, you’ll have to take my word on it. You’ll get backne like a sonofabitch! Who wants that? I certainly don’t want to look like I have a fourteen year old geek’s face on my back. No sir. You?

Jay Randall: No?

Kylo: Right answer. But that’s not even the worst part.

Kylo uses the pointer to circle around the crotches of Parker and Triple M.

Kylo: You know how your neck gets larger? Well the completely opposite happens for your twig and berries. Those things shrink up like a raisin. There is no denying it. I’ve unfortunately seen some of Parker’s work, even with his penis pump he was only about an inch and half. Who wants a fourteen year old face on your back and a six year old’s junk? Maybe those guys, but not people like us Clay.

Jay Randall: Jay…

Kylo: Right. Bottom line is, you give me your vote in November and I’ll do whatever it takes to stamp out steroids and HGH in professional wrestling, pornography, and any other sport that lets this muscle clad douchebags walk around like they’re high and mighty when we all know they’re just short and tiny. So…do I have your vote?

Jay Randall: I’ll…have to think about it. I’ve got to go.

Jay Randall begins to walk away from Kylo when he gets hit in the head with something. He turns around to see a button lying on the ground. Randall picks it up and gives Kylo a fake smile and turns back around and continues walking.

“Ego” By Element 80 hits and streamers fly into the sky. Triple M makes his way out onto the ramp to a mixed reaction from his hometown crowd. Mario walks down the isle slapping a few hands as they lean over the rails. Mario slides into the ring and reaches into his trench coat and pulls out one of his infamous “MMM” Microphones.

Triple M: WHO ROCKS THE HOUSE!?

Some fans shout back “Triple M” while others shout “Venom”.

Triple M: I know that each and every singe one of you guys came here to see me Marvelously Manhandle “The Pornstar” Pete Parker and Kylo. And tonight I have brought with me a very special guest. Ladies and Gentlemen I want you to give a warm welcome to Adrian Peterson!

The Fans go absolutely crazy at the mention of Adrian Peterson. Peterson stands up and waves to the fans. He then sits back down and starts talking to the bald gentlemen sitting next to him.

Triple M: See that is a classy man. He excepted my invitation to come here tonight to witness the Greatest wrestler in Minnesota. Thank you Adrian….. Adrian….. Up here!

Triple M waves trying to catch Adrian Peterson’s attention. But Adrian Peterson is apparently getting an autograph from the bald guy sitting next to him. After looking closer the bald man is non other then Venom. Triple M gets pissed off and climbs out of the ring and confronts Venom and Adrian Peterson.

Triple M: Hey! What the hell do you think you’re doing out here?

Venom: I was just signing this autograph for my biggest fan. Adrian Peterson is a huge Venom fan. Who would have thought it?

Triple M: Shut up Venom! First, you steal my interview time last week. And now you’re out here stealing my special guest. What the hell is your problem?

Venom glares at Triple M and Mario doesn’t back down. Suddenly the crowd starts loudly chanting “Ven-nom Ven-nom”. Triple M looks around the arena at the chanting fans and throws the microphone to the ground and storms off to the back.

The lights in the arena dim and “Sexy, Naughty, Bitchy” by Tata Young blares over the PA system and the fans explode in cheers. A few seconds later Jenny Owens steps out from behind the curtains. She stands at the top of the ramp and points to the curtains just as Annie Alvarez makes her way out. She stands next to Jenny and both women put their hands on the hips, taking in the cheers. They walk down the ramp and onto the steps. Jenny and Annie pose and the lights turn back to full power. Jenny walks along the apron and bends down, holding the first and second ropes apart for Annie. Annie gets in the ring and waits for Jenny to join her. Once in the ring Annie takes off her t-shirt revealing her tank top and hands it to Jenny. Jenny throws the shirt over her shoulder and exits the ring. Annie waits in the ring with her hands on her hips.

Zach King: The following match is scheduled for one fall! Making her way to the ring, from Hollywood, California… Weighing in at 130 pounds… Annie Alvarez!

Caelan Tyler: One would think Annie will be all business here today, since her opponent cost her a chance at being the Anarchy X champion.

Jake Steel: As awesome as I think Annie is, Triple M had her beat regardless.

Caelan Tyler: One never knows what could’ve happened if Ice Man hadn’t chosen to interfere with that match.

Blue strobe lights begin flashing in the arena, '10,000 Fists' by Disturbed begins to play and the Ice Man steps out from behind the curtain. He pauses on the stage to take in the cheers and jeers from the thousands in attendance. He slowly makes his way to the ring. He walks up the steps and steps into the ring. He goes to the far turnbuckle and throws his hands into the air, fists clenched. He then hops down and the strobe lights stop as he prepares for the match to begin.

Zach King: And her opponent, from Portland, Oregon… Weighing in at 275 pounds… He is the former Anarchy X Champion… The Ice Man!

Caelan Tyler: This is the return match for The Ice Man, who was stripped of his Anarchy X title because he wasn’t under contract at the time of the last Uprising.

Jake Steel: He’ll get his chance to reclaim that belt, although I’m doubting he’s gonna have such an easy time with Triple M as he did with interfering.

Caelan Tyler: I agree with you for once.

The bell rings, and Ice Man turns his attention to Annie, causing her to immediately do what any sensible person would do in that sort of situation: bail out of the ring. Ice Man quickly follows her outside, and Annie moves to the other side of the ring before sliding back in. Ice Man follows suit, and as he slides in Annie begins to put the boots to the side of his head, trying to keep the big man off his feet. Ice Man manages to get to his feet, but Annie quickly hits a drop toe hold, dropping him throat first across the bottom rope!

Caelan Tyler: Annie with some smart tactics here early on.

Jake Steel: Well when your opponent is like a foot taller than you and has 150 pounds of muscle on you your choices for how to approach the match are pretty limited.

With Ice Man draped across the bottom rope Annie immediately grabs the top rope and begins to jump on his back, using her weight to grind Ice Man’s throat across the rope. The referee begins to count, but she lets off before he gets to five. Annie then pulls down on the rope and holds on, letting the momentum of the rope lift her up and over as she shifts her grip and body, driving her boots into the face and chest of Ice Man, which rolls him onto his back in the ring. Standing on the apron, Annie uses the ropes in much the same way, except this time she catapults herself over into a splash into Ice Man! She quickly hooks the leg!

1…

2…

No, Ice Man uses his arms to literally toss Annie up from on top of him, a pissed off look on his face as he rubs his throat.

Caelan Tyler: Some impressive and innovative offense there by Annie, although it wasn’t enough to keep Ice Man down.

Jake Steel: I don’t get that, if Annie was pinning me. I know I wouldn’t bother kicking out.

Caelan Tyler: And that is why you’re retired, you just don’t know how to handle these mixed matches which are becoming more and more common. I’ve had to participate in them before.

Jake Steel: yeah, and didn’t that Angelica chick kick your ass?

Caelan Tyler: …So?

Jake Steel: Pot meets kettle.

Annie quickly gets to her feet, putting the boots to Ice Man as he gets up before trying to whip him across the ring. Ice Man is able to plant his weight, and much to Annie’s chagrin he’s unable to get him to budge. Ice Man’s own attempt at this is met with much more success, and Annie bounces off the ropes only to catch a massive lariat from Ice Man. The crowd boos loudly as Ice Man makes a cutting motion at his throat while pointing down to Annie. Ice Man pulls Annie up and lifts her up into a fireman’s carry on his shoulder, giving a thumbs down to the crowd.

Caelan Tyler: Ice Man is looking to finish it early here, and is letting the crowd know it.

Jake Steel: I can’t watch, violence against women is never the answer!

Caelan Tyler: Since when did you care about that?

Jake Steel: Since Ice Man decided to fuck with poor poor Annie.

Annie isn’t about to give up without a fight, however, and before Ice Man can finish his Ice Pick finisher Annie manages to shift her weight and slide down his back, using her nails to rake at Ice Man’s face and eyes. Ice Man grabs his face in pain as Annie kicks him in the gut and drives him down with a DDT! Annie quickly hooks his leg.

1…

2…

No, once again Ice Man just tosses Annie off of him like one would throw the blanket off themselves when they get out of bed.

Caelan Tyler: Annie just can’t seem to keep the big man off his feet here. Not sure what else she can do to put him down.

Jake Steel: I can think of a few things…

Caelan Tyler: …

Jake Steel: What? Not all of us are friends with Skye Ricardo!

Looking to keep Ice Man unbalanced, Annie catching him in the head with a dropkick before bouncing up and hitting him with a roundhouse, driving him back into a corner. Annie goes to the other side of the ring and charges across the ring, bouncing forward and nailing Ice Man with a handspring elbow! The crowd cheers as Annie climbs the turnbuckles and wraps her arm around Ice Man’s head. She then kicks off the turnbuckle and spins, dragging down Ice Man and planting him with a tornado DDT! She goes for another pin!

1…

2…

No, again Annie is denied! She just can’t seem to get the big man to stay down.

Caelan Tyler: This is just not going Annie’s way, she’s done everything but throw the kitchen sink at him here.

Jake Steel: Oh hey the pizza’s here!

Caelan Tyler: …Jake we have a match to call!

Jake Steel: Dude, you got 5 bucks for a tip by chance?

Pulling Ice Man to his feet, Annie leaps up, wrapping her legs around Ice Man and attempting to drag him over with a hurricanrana. Before she’s able to swing her body down, however, Ice Man is able to grab her legs and spike her down to the mat with a powerbomb! Ice Man immediately grabs Annie by her hair and drags her to her feet, whipping her into the ropes and catching her as she rebounds, nailing a vicious powerslam that has the crowd booing loudly.

Caelan Tyler: A series of moves like that is going to take the air right out of any competitor.

Jake Steel: Mmm pineapple…

Caelan Tyler: …*grumbles*

Jake Steel: Hey, it’s not my fault they forgot your crazy bread!

Again pulling her up by her hair, Ice Man lifts Annie high into the air, holding her up with a press for several seconds before letting her fall backwards. As she falls he grabs her and drops back with her, driving his back into her ribs with a Samoan drop! Ice Man nonchalantly drapes his arm over her and motions for the ref to count.

1…

2…

No! Annie got her shoulder up just in the nick of time! Ice Man seethes when the referee tells him it’s only two.

Caelan Tyler: Annie showing some resilience here.

Jake Steel: I wonder if she likes pineapple.

Ice Man pulls her to her feet, slamming his mammoth forearms across her back while doing so before whipping her to the ropes again. He tries for another lariat but this time Annie ducks it, and as Ice Man turns around Annie comes off the ropes and nails him with a spinning heel kick! She pulls him to his feet, putting Ice Man into a double underhook as the fans cheer.

Caelan Tyler: Annie’s going for her finisher here, she could pull off the upset!

Before Annie can complete her finisher, Ice Man drops to one knee and pulls himself out of the double underhook, driving his shoulders into Annie’s midsection and lifting her into the air with a fireman’s carry before spinning her out into The Ice Pick! Annie’s head bounces off the mat as Ice Man crawls over, hooking her leg.

1…

2…

3!

Zach King: Here is your winner… THE ICE MAN!

Caelan Tyler: Annie gave it her all, but the brute force of The Ice Man was just too much for her to deal with.

Jake Steel: Damnit! I wanted to go celebrate a victory with her!

Caelan Tyler: I doubt she’d go for that Jake.

The bell rings as the crowd boos with Ice Man getting to his feet, kicking Annie in the ribs a few times before showing the ultimate sign of disrespect by spitting on her. The referee raises Ice Man’s hand as the scene cuts backstage…

The camera focuses on Triple M walking backstage towards the staging area for his fight. He smiles and shines his Anarchy X title that is on his shoulders, won at the very first Uprising of 2008. Triple M pushes the camera man out of the way and he falls to his back, the vision suddenly looking above.

Camera man: Shit!

The cameraman calms his breath as two ice blue eyes stare out of the darkness of the rafters' down at him. The rafters don't make a sound as the eyes come closer, a ghoulish mask coming into focus from the darkness. The mask only covers the face but seems to join into the skin itself of the wearer. The lurker moves silently and like liquid silk as it drops from the rafters and lands directly over the camera man looking down at him. A body and a mask that is instantly recognizable as she stands over the camera.

Camera man: *Whispers* The Black Phoenix.

The Firefly looks off camera to where Triple M walked off towards the entrance ramp. She sniffs the air and cocks her head to the side for a moment as if considering her options. The light shows off the pure athlete that is behind the mask of the Black Phoenix, her muscles ripple as she cocks her head back towards the camera. Her lips stretch with a smile so cold that the camera man shivers. Her voice drips with malice.

The Black Phoenix: Anarchy.... I like that.

The Black Phoenix steps off the cameraman and walks away. The shadows seem to follow as she disappears again from view.

Andy Murray is in his element this evening. Not only is the Scottish King of Cool in his hometown of Aberdeen, Scotland for the first time in nearly a year, but he’s about to meet up with one of the greatest allies he has ever made in the wrestling business – Josh Allen. Having not seen his former OCW partner-in-crime in almost four years, one would assume that Murrr would be rather nervous in the hours leading up to the meeting. However, Murray’s body language as he strolls down the Aberdeen beach esplanade is the polar opposite of anxiety; he strides with confidence and swagger, and has his usual cheesy grin planted firmly across his lips. His loyal sidekick, Grobschnit, is of course bounding along behind him.

Caelan Tyler: Scottish King of Cool in the house!

Jake Steel: Well, he’s not really “in the house”; he’s in Scotland! And why on Earth do they keep giving this guy air-time? He’s not even an NLW employee!

Caelan Tyler: Because he’s one bad mother, Jake! Seriously, even Jesus is afraid of Andy Murray.

Jake Steel: Pfffft, whatever! I couldn’t care less about him and his boyfriend Josh Allen meeting up in Scotland, they can both go to hell as far as I’m concerned.

Murray – who is clad in a pair of black jeans, a black leather jacket and has a navy blue scarf wrapped around his neck to protect him from the harsh, icy winds coming in from the North Sea – pauses outside one of the many cafeterias on the oceanfront and pulls a crumpled piece of paper from his pocket. He glances up at the sign.

Andy Murray: Yeap, this looks like the place. Now Grobby, I want you to wait here a moment alright? Shouldn’t be too long.

Grobschnit nods his little green head.

Grobschnit: 4 reel.

Andy Murray: Good boy.

The Scottish King of Cool pulls out what looks like a doggy treat from his pocket and tosses it in the air. The Notorious G-R-O-B flicks out his massive, foot-long tongue in the direction of the treat, snatching it out of the air and straight down his throat as Andy steps into the cafeteria.

Andy Murray: Josh you rim-licker! How’s it fucking collapsing!?!

Expecting to find Josh Allen standing before him, Andy’s facial expression sours somewhat as soon as he realizes that Josh isn’t even in the cafeteria. Instead, three suit-clad, bald-headed men step up from a table and approach Murrr. All three of them stand pretty close to Andy’s 6’7”, and are all built like bulldozers.

Caelan Tyler: Oh boy, that isn’t Josh Allen!

Jake Steel: Thank God!

Man 1: You Murray?

Confused, Murray raises an eyebrow.

Andy Murray: Yeah bitch, where’s Josh!?!

One of the suit-clad men slips behind Andy as another chuckles.

Man 1: Well, regrettably he couldn’t make it here I’m afraid. But he did ask us to deliver a very special message to you…

Instantly sensing that something is not right, Andy is able to quickly duck as the first guy throws a punch in his direction. Inside of connecting with The Scottish King of Cool, the guy’s fist smashes straight into the nose of the guy who had been standing behind Murrr, who falls to the ground like a sack of potatoes.

Caelan Tyler: Oh my goodness!

The attacker pauses for a second – stunned that he has just laid out his partner – which allows Andy to take full advantage by taking him down with a leg sweep. Murray pivots on the heel of his foot to face the final assailant, who squares up to him, adopting a boxing stance.

Andy Murray: Let’s dance, baby!

He throws a punch at Andy, which Murray blocks with his right forearm. Seizing the opportunity, Andy pokes his opponent square in both eyes, blinding him momentarily.

Andy Murray: Feel the PAIN of the FINGER POKE OF DEATH, motherFUCKER!

Knowing that hanging around probably isn’t a good idea, Andy quickly bursts back throw the doors of the cafeteria and into the cold, harsh Aberdonian afternoon. He startles Grobschnit.

Grobschnit: Wtf?!

Andy Murray: Grobby, no time to explain… some bad men are trying to kill us! We gotta run, yo!

Grobschnit: ZOMG!

Andy grabs the wrist of Grobschnit and the two of them immediately take off down the street as one of the burly men slips through the door, shaking his fist in the air with frustration.

Caelan Tyler: What the hell?! Did Josh Allen send those guys to take Murray out?

Jake Steel: I fucking hope so! He’d be doing all of us a favor!

Caelan Tyler: But that doesn’t make any sense? I thought those guys were buddies! What’s going on here?!

Lights in the arena go out, as a spotlight focuses on the stage. Pyros fire in front, as Kid Rock's So Hot starts playing, and as the words, 'So Hot, I don't wanna be your friend, I wanna (Uh Uh 'Fuck You') like I'm never going to see you again', The Pornstar Pete Parker steps from behind the curtain. He pauses at the top of the stage, bathing in the some cheers, and some boos from the crowd, the ladies snapping pictures. Slowly taking a walk down the ramp towards the ring, Pete stops and checks the crowd, looking to see if a victim for the night was worth his time. Finally getting into the ring, taking what seems like forever, Pete steps into the ring, the lights still out, and the spotlight on just him. Removing his full length robe, Pete shows off a more muscular body that before, completely cut, looking better than ever. Parker goes to his corner, ready for action as pyros fire off from the stage to the ring, and then the corners fire away.

Zach King: Ladies and Gentleman, the following triple threat match is scheduled for one fall! Making his way to the ring first, from Hollywood, California… weighing in at 259 pounds... 'PORNSTAR” PETE PARKER!

The lights in the arena dim down low. As the fans begin to go silent 'Hail to the Chief' begins to play. The fans jump back to their feet as Kylo steps out onto the ramp in his trademark sleeveless black 'KYLO8' shirt and the American flag tied around his neck like a cape. He makes his way down the ramp, shaking hands with as many people as he can. When he finally gets to the ring he slowly climbs in and begins looking around at all those cheering. He then stands in the center of the ring and with the peace sign on both hands raises his arms into the air as a large American flag is lowered from the rafters behind him and red, white, and blue pyro explode from the turnbuckles.

Zach King: And the second participant in this match, from Detroit, Michigan… weighing in at 260 pounds… KYLO!

Caelan Tyler: Kylo’s out here for two reasons tonight, his match and to raise awareness of his campaign.

Jake Steel: One can only hope he gets caught with some interns before the election so people don’t vote for him.

'Ego' By Element Eighty hits and three M's pop up on the giant video screen

You are such an imitation of me.

'Marvelous' Mario Maurako steps out onto the stage and raises his 2x4 into the air. Maurako glares out at the fans who are booing loudly, and then he makes his way down the ramp.

Falling down on you
And still you never knew
This hell I put you through
Should be nothing new

Maurako rolls into the ring under the bottom rope and climbs the nearest turnbuckle and raises the 2x4 again.

Don't you know
Who I am
I am the man that you will never be

Maurako hops down from the turnbuckle and heads for the next one with the 2x4 draped over his shoulder

Don't you know
Who I am
I am the man that you will never be

Maurako slams the 2x4 into the top turnbuckle which sounds off a loud bang, which cuts off the music and sends Red and White streamers into the sky. Triple M then hands both the 2x4 and his Anarchy X championship to the referee.

Zach King: And the last participant in the match, from Minneapolis, Minnesota, weighing in at 260 pounds… He is the NLW Anarchy X champion… “MARVELOUS” MARIO MAURAKO!

Caelan Tyler: No doubt that Triple M has his mind on the issues with Venom and not with this match.

Jake Steel: He better focus on this, or else Parker will put him out.

The bell rings, and almost immediately Kylo and Parker begin to trade rights before Triple M charges them, attempting a double lariat. Both men see it coming, and Triple M finds himself airborne from a double hiptoss. Just as quickly as Triple M slams into the mat both Parker and Kylo begin to put the boots to him for attempting to take advantage of the situation. Triple M quickly rolls out of the ring, and Parker locks Kylo in a side headlock

Caelan Tyler: Triple M tried to take control of the match early, but they made him pay for it.

Jake Steel: Come on Mario, keep your eye on the prize!

Kylo drives his forearm into Parker’s ribs a few times before locking his arms and lifting Parker into the air, dropping him with a belly to back suplex. Kylo pops back to his feet as Triple M slides back into the ring, knocking Kylo down with stiff lariat. Kylo pops back up, and Triple M kicks him in the gut and quickly brings him down again with a body slam. Triple M taunts the crowd as Parker gets up, driving a boot into Triple M’s gut before delivering a sharp chop across the chest. Another chop and Parker has Triple M in the corner, where he begins to deliver shoulder thrusts to the Anarchy X champion’s midsection.

Caelan Tyler: Parker is fired up here tonight, no doubt to avenge his loss from last Uprising.

Jake Steel: That was a fluke, Venom cheated, I know he did!

Caelan Tyler: Prove it.

Kylo walks over and delivers several kicks to the midsection of Triple M alongside Parker before Parker charges the corner, driving Triple M into the turnbuckles with a spear. As Parker stands back up Kylo kicks him in the ribs before delivering some bionic elbows to his head. Kylo then whips Parker, and when Parker rebounds off the ropes goes for a big boot. Parker rolls under it, and as Kylo turns back around he catches a dropkick right to the kisser! Parker lifts Kylo up and slams him down with a belly to belly suplex, hooking the leg.

1…

2…

No, Triple M drags Parker off of Kylo, breaking up the pin.

Caelan Tyler: Parker tried to end this early, but Triple M wasn’t about to have any part of that.

Jake Steel: That’s right, get back into the game Mario!

Parker gets to his feet, and Attempts to catch Maurako with a side kick. Unfortunately for Parker, the only thing being caught is his leg, as Triple M catches it and holds it to his side. Parker then leaps into the air, delivering an enziguri to Triple M’s temple and dropping him like a sack of potatoes. Parker quickly attempts another pin.

1…

2…

This time Kylo is the one who break up the pin, driving his elbow into the neck area of Parker.

Caelan Tyler: Kylo with the same this time around. Think Parker is getting frustrated?

Jake Steel: Hell, I’m getting frustrated, stupid Kylo.

Kylo delivers some forearms to Parker before kicking him in the gut and taking him down with a double arm DDT. Triple M gets to his feet, and Kylo attempts to German suplex him, but Triple M is able to do a standing switch, locking Kylo in a full nelson that he calls Marvelosity. Kylo struggles to free himself, and rather than trying to maintain the hold Triple M just lifts him into the air and hits him with the Super Mario. Triple M then lifts Parker up and powerbombs him right into the top turnbuckle! Parker falls to the mat, grabbing at the back of his head, which had just bounced off the turnbuckle.

Caelan Tyler: High impact move there by Triple M, he calls that the Minneapolis Mayhem!

Jake Steel: Damn, he nailed Parker so hard with that I think his mom felt it.

Kylo gets back to his feet and begins to trade rights with Triple M before cutting the big man off with a knee to the ribs. Kylo then whips Triple M into the ropes, slamming into him with a shoulderblock. Triple M just shrugs it off, taunting Kylo. Kylo promptly flips Triple M the bird before kicking him in the midsection and whipping him again, this time dropping him with his Sweet Dreams Superkick! Kylo goes for the pin.

Caelan Tyler: Kylo with the pin attempt!

1…

2…

No, Triple M gets his shoulder up, and Kylo drags him to his feet, delivering more elbows and trying to position him for The Downer before Parker hits him from behind with a clubbing blow to the back of the head. Parker then drives a knee into Kylo’s midsection before lifting him with a gutwrench and driving him down with a sitout powerbomb!

Caelan Tyler: Nice sitout powerbomb here, but will it score the victory for Parker?

Jake Steel: One can only hope, one can only hope…

1…

2…

No, Kylo is able to get his shoulder up! Frustrated, Parker gets up and begins to stomp on Kylo, causing the presidential hopeful to bail from the ring. Parker then quickly turns his attention to Triple M, who’s getting back to a vertical base. Parker lifts Triple M up and spins around, quickly spiking him to the mat with a spinebuster. Parker then points to the top rope before climbing to the top turnbuckle, leaping off and nailing Triple M with a G-Spot Splat! Parker goes for the pin!

1…

2…

3… No, Triple M manages to get his shoulder up at the very last moment!

Caelan Tyler: Triple M manages to get his shoulder up there! Going to take more than a couple of big moves to keep Triple M down.

Jake Steel: No shit Sherlock, Triple M is badass.

Pulling Triple M up, Parker gets ready to nail him with his Pornstar Plunge finisher, but before Parker can complete the move Triple M pushes him up, flipping him into the air with a back body drop. Parker comes over far too fast and is unable to shift his body, causing him to land on the back of his head and neck! Parker immediately falls limp as Triple M turns around. Before Triple M and act Kylo slides back into the ring, rotating Triple M and nailing him with The Downer! Triple M rolls out of the ring clutching his head as Kylo quickly covers Parker.

1…

2…

3!

The bell rings, and Kylo immediately bails from the ring as Triple M slides back in, seething over what just happened. The referee makes an “X” with his arms as EMTs come down to the ring to check on Parker.

Zach King: Here is your winner… KYLO!

Caelan Tyler: Kylo picked up the victory here, but Parker looks seriously hurt out here.

Jake Steel: NOOO! First Titan 3 and now Parker… Why must this company rob us of such talent in its prime?!

Backstage, the cameras catch Kevin Heat and his new “friend” Pablo walking down a hallway. Kevin leads determinedly while Pablo drags his feet.

Kevin Heat: Hurry up, Pablo!

Pablo: I’m walkin’ as fast as I can, main! I ain’t no f*ckin’ wrestler…

Kevin Heat: You aren’t a fat ass either, so come on!

Pablo shakes his head and trudges on. They come to a door near the end of the hallway marked COMMISSIONER HARVEY DANGER in green sticker-letters. Obviously, his official sign has not arrived yet… if ever. Kevin turns to Pablo with a stern look.

Kevin Heat: Alright, this is easy enough for even you to understand. I want you to stand outside this door and wait for me. Make sure nobody comes in. You got it?

Pablo: Do I got a choice?

Kevin Heat: Nope!

Kevin grins, pats Pablo on the shoulder, and enters the office. Harvey Danger stands behind his desk, searching through a pile of papers an arm-length high and doesn’t notice Kevin walk in.

Harvey Danger: It’s here. I know it’s here. The rule printout can’t be that far away.

Kevin clears his throat loudly and Harvey, jumping in surprise, knocks the whole pile of papers onto the floor.

Kevin Heat: …Did I come at a bad time?

Harvey Danger: Well, actually…

Kevin Heat: Good! You see, I wanted to talk to you about tonight’s main event. Just a little… detail I wanted to discuss.

Kevin sits at a chair in front of the desk and Harvey, with a nervous glance at the papers on the floor, goes to sit opposite him.

Harvey Danger: Okay… What about the main event?

Kevin Heat: Well, there’s something that’s been bothering me about it. You see, Harvey, I’ve been a faithful person to NLW for a long time now. And there’s nothing that would make me happier than to go out there, beat the snot out of TJ Arrington, and continue my reign as Legacy Champion.

He sighs, letting the words “Legacy Champion” sink in for the hundredth time.

Kevin Heat: …But there’s a problem.

Harvey Danger: Problem? What problem? I’ve got the rule printout! I know where it is! It’s just… It’s here!

He motions towards the hill of papers sitting next to his desk. Kevin glances at it, but shakes his head.

Kevin Heat: No, no, a different problem. I…

But Kevin is cut off by a sudden shout followed by a loud THUMP outside the door. The door opens and Jack Sullivan enters the room. Before he shuts the door, a downed figure that can only be Pablo is seen getting up from the floor and rubbing his skull where the NLW owner hit him.

Jack Sullivan: Harvey, what are you doing?! Why exactly do you have some sort of bodyguard not letting people into your office? And where is that printout I asked you for?

Harvey seems a bit tongue-tied, but he doesn’t have to say anything. Immediately when Jack notices that Kevin is in the room, he turns on him.

Jack Sullivan: And what are you doing here, Heat?

Kevin Heat: I’m very glad you asked that question. I’ve come to –

Jack Sullivan: Save it. I’ve got more pressing matters to deal with…

Kevin Heat: WAIT a minute!

Kevin stands from his seat, heated, glaring straight into Jack’s eyes.

Kevin Heat: I came in here to speak about my match and I’m not leaving until I get heard!

Jack glares into Kevin’s eyes at being talked to in such a manner, but…

Jack Sullivan: …All right. What do you have to say?

Kevin Heat: Really? I mean, you’ll let me –

Jack Sullivan: Get on with it, Heat!

Kevin Heat: Right. Um, I’ve just felt like, especially because I’ve always turned out to be one of the best and brightest of NLW’s history, maybe I could get a little bonus for this main event.

Kevin’s rehearsed plea for money doesn’t come out as forceful as he imagined, but he still stands tall. Jack’s look doesn’t change.

Jack Sullivan: No, Kevin.

Kevin Heat: WHAT?!

Jack Sullivan: I said no. I’m not going to give you something for nothing. That’s not how this business works and just because you win a few matches doesn’t mean you get everything you want.

Kevin Heat: Ah, but you see, that’s the beauty of it! I’m not asking for “something-for-nothing.” I want a bonus of five thousand dollars IF and only IF I win the main event!

Kevin grins, staring into Sullivan’s face and looking for an answer.

Jack Sullivan: And if you lose…

Kevin Heat: If I lose?

Jack Sullivan: Of course, Kevin. There always has to be an ‘if-you-lose’. Otherwise, it’s a win-win situation and we can’t have that, can we?

Kevin’s grin falters as he racks his brain for an answer.

Kevin Heat: But if I lose, I’m already losing the NLW Legacy Championship, not to mention my spot in the Path of Destiny tournament!

Jack Sullivan: Well, think of something else.

Kevin Heat: If I lose… I’ll… I’ll forfeit a paycheck?

Jack Sullivan: That sounds more like it.

Kevin Heat: But I won’t lose! And when I win, I want that check given to me right after the match. Deal?

Kevin holds out his hand and Jack stares at it a moment.

Jack Sullivan: …Deal!

They shake hands on it, however briefly, and back away from each other.

Jack Sullivan: Come on, Harvey. We’ve got other things to do.

Harvey Danger: What? … Oh, right!

Jack prepares to leave the room, but Kevin stops him with a hand on his shoulder.

Kevin Heat: Oh, I almost forgot. …Happy Birthday, Jack.

Jack eyes him suspiciously, but nudges the hand off his shoulder as he leaves, followed by a trailing Harvey Danger. A smirk appears on Kevin’s face as he pulls a lighter from his pants pocket. When he flicks it open, the cameras switch back to ringside.

Zach King: Ladies and Gentlemen, the following contest is a semi-final match in the Path of Destiny tournament, and is scheduled for one fall!

The sound of a banjo playing is heard as the lights in the arena dim. The fans stand in anticipation as the banjo continues to play until it is rocked with a loud bass, as this happens pyros go off and Brad Dalton emerges from behind the curtain and makes his way to the ring. He enters the ring, climbs the back right turnbuckle flexes his arm and points at his bicep, he then smiles and gives the audience a thumbs up before climbing down.

Zach King: Introducing first, from Poughkeepsie New York, weighing in at 250 pounds… BRAD DALTON!

Caelan Tyler: Here’s a young man who certainly impressed in his debut, what do you reckon of Dalton, Jake?

Jake Steel: I’m not a fan to be honest, but he’s fighting that over-hyped jobber Venom, so he can’t really lose.

Zach King: And his opponent…

The lights dim down as Medicine Man by Pantera begins to play. A glowing green light emits from the entrance as smoke starts to fill it... Venom steps out to a mix reaction from the crowd. He stands there looking around at the crowd before making his way down the ramp. He gets about halfway down the ramp before motioning to the backstage area, and Johnny Elite comes down the ramp, the crowd cheering as Venom slides under the bottom rope, into the ring. He stands in the middle again looking around at the crowd, shaking his head as he spots a sign being held in the first row by a fan that reads “Venom? I liked Enigma Better”. After a few seconds, he walks over to one of the corners opposite the entrance way and sits on the top turnbuckle, where he patiently waits for his opponent to ready himself.

Zach King: … from Los Angeles, California, he is a former two-time NLW Champion, weighing in at 225lbs… “VENOM” Xavier Lux!

Jake Steel: Venom SUCKS!

Caelan Tyler: You know Jake, his track record does suggest otherwise! He’s a phenomenal athlete! I’m also curious as to why Johnny is down here, is he replacing Paco?!

Jake Steel: Who cares about Paco? His and his protégé Venom are damn losers! Seriously, Scoot Time entertains me more than this tit!

Caelan Tyler: There’s no doubt he’s going to have his hands full with Dalton tonight, but come on, take a chill pill!

As the bell rings Venom immediately charges at Brad, knocking him down with a stiff clothesline. Dalton powers up to his feet as the two men brawl wildly in the ring, the referee making a vain attempt to try and separate the two to prevent them from hurting each other.

Caelan Tyler: Wow! Both men straight out of the blocks here tonight!

Jake Steel: To be honest, if they just knocked each other out in the next thirty seconds I’d be pretty happy!

Caelan Tyler: Shut up Jake, this has the potential to be a classic!

Venom and Dalton both shove the referee away and brawl again. Venom finally gets the advantage and knees Dalton in the gut. He quickly grabs Dalton by the head and pulls him back with a snap suplex! Dalton gets to his feet as Venom rushes forward for a clothesline, but Dalton is quickly able to counter with an arm drag! He takes Venom to the mat an immediately locks in a headlock.

Caelan Tyler: Fast and furious succession of moves so far!

Jake Steel: Go on Brad! Break that prick’s neck!

Caelan Tyler: Hold on, I thought you didn’t like Dalton?

Jake Steel: I don’t! But I dislike Venom more!

Caelan Tyler: Heh, figures…

Venom reaches out to get a rope break, but he's a good foot from the ropes. Dalton wrenches the headlock again, but Venom manages to get to his knees. He drives an elbow into the side of Dalton and follows up with another one, breaking the hold. Venom grabs Dalton for another suplex, but Dalton blocks the attempt and reverses into a small package!

1…

No! Kickout from Venom!

Caelan Tyler: Early kick out in this fast moving match-up!

Jake Steel: If these two keep at it they’ll both pass out! Not that that would be a bad thing, per se…

Caelan Tyler: Just shut up and watch the damn match, alright?

Jake Steel: Oooo, bitchy! Must be the time of the month…

Venom and Brad Dalton get up at the same time and lock up again. Both men struggle for the advantage. Venom wrenches Dalton into an armbar. Dalton slaps his shoulder and reverses the armbar into an armbar of his own! Venom tries to reverse it, but is unable to. Dalton drives an elbow into the shoulder of Venom! Dalton quickly releases the hold and grabs Venom in a waistlock!

Caelan Tyler: Dalton's got the right game plan here! If he can keep Venom guessing and wear him down, he's well on his way to a victory!

Jake Steel: To an inevitable victory, Caelan.

Venom suddenly mule kicks backwards, catching Dalton between the legs, and collapsing him!

Jake Steel: Oh man! I felt that one from here, hahaha…

Caelan Tyler: That’ll leave a nasty mark for sure!

Dalton rolls on the mat as Venom reaches down and lifts him to his feet. Venom sends Dalton into the nearest corner and follows up with a running knee to the gut. The former champion fires three huge chops to Dalton's chest and pulls him out of the corner!

Caelan Tyler: Tremendous flurry of offensive moves by Venom! He's not going down without a fight!

Jake Steel: Unfortunately…

Caelan Tyler: Look, seriously man, SHUT UP! I know you don’t like Venom, but this shit’s getting ridiculous.

Jake Steel: Bite me, C. I’m just doing my job.

Caelan Tyler: NO! Your job is to call the match, not cuss out the wrestlers! Put a can in it, would ya?

Jake Steel: Meh…

Back in the ring Dalton goes for a knee lift but Venom is able to block it. He fires an elbow to the side of Dalton's head and lifts him into a stalling brainbuster! Venom holds Dalton in the air for the better part of five seconds and then drops him and goes for the cover!

1…

2…

Shoulder up!

Caelan Tyler: Comfortable kick out from Dalton there, you can tell he’s got a lot of fight in him tonight.

Jake Steel: Of course he does! There’s a World Title shot on the line here!

Venom yells and sends Dalton into the ropes. Dalton rebounds into a massive spinebuster! Venom goes for the pin again!!

1…

2…

… kick out by Dalton!

Caelan Tyler: And another one! Dalton just won’t stay down here…

Venom gets up and shakes his head at the referee, who swears he's been counting at the same speed throughout the match. Dalton manages to get his bearing back and hits Venom in the back of the knee with a dragon screw leg whip, sending Venom to the mat. Dalton grabs his leg and locks him in an inverted Boston crab in the middle of the ring!

Caelan Tyler: LOOK AT THAT POSITIONING!

Jake Steel: Wow, even I’m impressed by that…

Caelan Tyler: BEAUTIFUL! The fluidity with which Dalton moves around the ring is a sight to behold! A masterful technician…

Jake Steel: Don’t give this clown too much credit; he’s fighting a jobber here after all…

Venom screams in pain and presses himself up to crawl to the ropes, but collapses under the weight of Dalton! He slams his fist on the mat as the referee checks for a submission but he denies it. Dalton rears back and pulls harder as Venom howls in pain and reaches back behind him to grab at Dalton, but he isn't positioned correctly to catch anything more than a handful of air.

Caelan Tyler: Venom can't hold out too long like this! Look at how far back Dalton is wrenching those legs…

Jake Steel: I love watching that rodent in pain, hahaha…

Caelan Tyler: **Sigh** And again…

Dalton leans back and locks his leg around Venom's and converts the hold into an STF! He pulls back Venom's head roughly as the ref checks for a submission again!

Caelan Tyler: Is he tapping?!

Venom roars and waves the referee. The ref shrugs and backs off as Dalton maintains his hold, keeping the former NLW Champion grounded. Venom fades and nears unconsciousness, prompting the referee to grab his arm and drop it…

Caelan Tyler: That's one!

The referee lifts it and goes to drop it again…

Jake Steel: That’s two!

The referee lifts the arm of Venom and goes to drop it again, but at the last moment…

Jake Steel: Surprise… surprise….

Venom pushes the ref away and with a last ditch surge of energy, he manages to power out of the entire hold! Dalton rolls off of Venom and begins to stand as Venom rolls towards the apron. Just as Venom makes it to the ropes, Dalton grabs him by the neck and pulls him to his feet.

Caelan Tyler: Those submission holds took a toll on Venom. Look how he's wrenching his leg forward and back!

Jake Steel: Of course it is, it’s a fucking badass hold!

Sure enough, Venom rises gingerly to a vertical base. Dalton sends him into the ropes and scoops him up into a backbreaker and dumps him to the mat and goes for the cover!

1…

2…

Kick out by Venom!

Caelan Tyler: You can really tell how much both men wants this! Neither is letting up on their attacks! It's all business in the ring!

Jake Steel: I gotta admit, although Dalton’s had most of the offense here, Venom’s not giving up. Respect.

Caelan Tyler: See, that didn’t hurt, did it!?!

Dalton lifts Venom again. The last kickout seemed to take its toll on Venom. Dalton sends Venom into the ropes again. Dalton tries for a wild clothesline, but Venom is able to duck it! At the last moment Venom lashes out with a mafia kick, clipping Dalton in the back and dropping him to the mat!

Caelan Tyler: DESPERATION MOVE BY VENOM!

Jake Steel: You’re not wrong, what a kick!

Caelan Tyler: And he could be right back in this one here, folks!

Dalton and Venom both fall to the mat as the referee blinks stupidly for a moment and then begins the mandatory ten-count!

1

2

3

Dalton gets to his hands and knees and shakes his head, rattled from the sudden attack. Venom rolls over and grabs at his stomach.

4

5

Caelan Tyler: You gotta wonder how much Venom’s got left in the tank here! He’s taken some BIG moves from Dalton tonight!

6

7

Dalton gets to a knee, prompting the ref to stop the count. Dalton gets to his feet and rushes at Venom. Venom bursts forward suddenly and hits Dalton with a low spear, clipping his knee and dropping him! Venom gets to his feet, feeling his second wind kick in!

Jake Steel: How the hell is this guy still standing!?!

Caelan Tyler: Because he is one hell of a competitor, Jake!

Venom lifts Dalton into a waistlock and plants him to the mat with a reverse DDT. He yells and sits on the chest of Dalton and lays into him with lefts and rights, throwing away the technical aspect of wrestling momentarily to inflict some punishment on his opponent.

Caelan Tyler: And this is where Venom really comes into his element! Straight-up brawling… he’s definitely not going to take Dalton out in a straight-up technical showcase, but surely there can be only one winner in a pure fist-fight!

Jake Steel: He’s gotta watch out with those closed fists though, one too many and the referee might call a DQ.

The referee goes over to break it, but Venom pushes him away. The ref yells and begins to count!

1

2

3

4

Venom dismounts Dalton and kicks him hard in the side of the head. He lifts Dalton into a crucifix position and plants him to the mat!

Caelan Tyler: Tremendous move by Venom!

Jake Steel: Eh, I’d say average at best…

At the end of the powerbomb, Venom clutches his leg and falls to a knee! He yells and hauls himself back up to his feet and staggers over to Dalton, breathing heavily. He slowly lifts Dalton. Dalton throws a weak punch to the side of Venom's head, Venom fires back with a weak punch of his own. Both men lock up, resting each other's head on their opponent's shoulder.

Jake Steel: Man, they’re both spent!

Caelan Tyler: No surprise really, it’s been a fast-moving, hard-hitting match to say the very least!

Venom throws another punch but Dalton catches his arm and goes for a suplex! He tries to lift the larger Venom but Venom manages to remain grounded. In desperation, Venom DDT's Dalton into the mat!

Caelan Tyler: This could be it! It looks like Venom is getting ready to finish off Brad Dalton!

Venom hauls his opponent to his feet and whips him off the ropes. As he bounces back, Venom attempts a splash but Dalton ducks, before nailing his adversary with an enziguri!

Caelan Tyler: VOTE OF CONFIDENCE! You know Dalton’s going to try and put this one to sleep now!

Jake Steel: Thank god for that!

Dalton pulls his opponent up and hooks both arms, but Venom somehow manages to reach deep down and find the strength to push Dalton away! Out of nowhere he plants a superkick right in Dalton’s jaw! Dalton falls back, knocking the referee down as well.

Jake Steel: GAH!

Caelan Tyler: WHERE DID THAT COME FROM!?! WHAT A MOVE!

Signaling for the end, Venom drags his opponent across the ring towards the turnbuckles. He climbs up, pulling his opponent with him. The referee is still down as Triple M runs to the ring, 2x4 in hand, his face seething in rage once he spots Johnny Elite at ringside. Venom is still on the top turnbuckle, and Triple M moves to hit Venom with the 2x4, but Dalton, not seeing Triple M, shifts and turns, moving right into the arc and catching the 2x4 shot meant for Venom! Dalton is left out like a light on the top turnbuckle as Venom leaps off, nailing Triple M with a forearm that sends him crashing into the barricade! Venom then drapes Dalton over his shoulders. Letting out an almighty roar he dives off the turnbuckles and to the outside of the ring, planting Dalton right on top of Triple M with a death valley driver!

Caelan Tyler: TOXIC! TOXIC! TOXIC!

Jake Steel: Calm down man…

Caelan Tyler: IT’S OVER!

Surprisingly quickly given the impact of the move, Venom scrambles up to his feet and pushes his adversary back in the ring. He is quick to make the cover and hook the leg! As he does so Johnny helps the ref get his bearings and the count starts!

Caelan Tyler: That’s gotta be it!

1…

2…

3!

Jake Steel: NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!

The bell rings as “Medicine Man” begins to play, the referee raising Venom’s hand in victory!

Caelan Tyler: It’s over! Venom picks up the victory and advances to the final! What a match that was! Even with Triple M’s interference he was still able to pull through!

Jake Steel: Oh for Christ’s sake, why does he have to win so often!?!

Zach King: Ladies and gentlemen, here is your winner… 'VENOM' XAVIER LUX!

The scene cuts back to Jack’s office, where he has the currently vacant NLW Championship belt proudly on display. He glazes over the sheet of paper in his hands before addressing the camera.

Jack Sullivan: It’s that time ladies and gentlemen, I promised I would announce what the rules were going to be for a Legacy title match and I am a man of my word. You see, I’m a firm believer in the idea that you want to have a Legacy you need to earn it. There aren’t any free passes and I’m making damn sure that there won’t be any for this title. Matches will be held under normal rules with the following exceptions: competitors are only allowed three rope breaks each per match, and the title will change hands as result of a disqualification or countout caused by the actions of the current champion. You want to be Legacy champion? Win your matches clean! Have fun with that Kevin, and good luck.

A smirk forms on Jack’s face as the scene fades out of his office.

Josh Allen awoke too the annoying screech of his room's telephone at The Brittania Hotel in Bucksburn, Aberdeen, Scotland.

Josh Allen: Hello? ... I said, Hello?! ...Damn it, don't ... Oh, right.

Wake-up call. He glanced at his wristwatch on the nightstand next to the bed. 7:45 a.m. He slipped his feet the floor, quickly noticing a sticky stream of brown stuff from his chest, streaming down and hidden beneath his boxers, and smeared down both legs.

Josh Allen: What the hell?

Latisha startled Allen as she popped her head out from under the blankets. She mumbled, a bit incoherent still so drowsy.

Latisha: How are you this morning, my little chocolate sundae?

Oh. That! Allen laughed, though the chocolate was a bit sticky. He needed a quick shower. He still had a slight headache. He'd never been to such an odd club. Everyone was so friendly. Maybe a little too friendly.

Latisha: You know, Geophrey acted as if he'd never tasted chocolate syrup last night! Blew my mind. You know these Scottish people. They don't even flinch at the thought of a threesome, but ask them to supply the chocolate syrup, and it's like I'm damn foreign!

Josh Allen: ... huh? Who ... ate ... the syrup ... that's on MY body? Who's Geoph--

Latisha: You should remember I'm allergic to chocolate. And, he's just a suit-case carryin' employee of this fine establishment. Now, he's that, ... plus, he's a bit more liberal, in certain terms of thinking.

Allen's note from his old friend, Andy Murray, had suggested Allen drive to meet him at a local restaurant for breakfast. Allen dressed, as did Latisha, and left for the parking lot. Murray had kindly rented a car for Allen during his stay.

Josh Allen: Now remember, you're a former actress who hit it big in the calendar world. Now, you're basically the most famous bikini-calendar model on the globe. And we married in a big, lavish, European wedding two years ago.

Latisha: Yeah, yeah, just let me handle this, sugar. He's gonna be so damn jealous of the piece of ass you married, he won't care when we tied the knot. Hey, is he hot? You know, like, one to 10, is he ... a two? An eight? You think he'd agree to a threeso--

Allen placed his hand over her mouth and decided not to respond. In the lobby, the desk manager called for an attendant, who escorted Latisha toward Allen's rent-a-car waiting outside, while Allen paid his tab.

Josh Allen: Sure I don't owe you for the car? I c--

Manager: No sir, a Mr. Murray left the keys and a card for you. Paid in full. He must be quite a friend.

The man slid Allen an envelope with the keys and a car. He exited the building toward the parking lot. Latisha, standing against the car about 100 yards away, had began flirting with the attendant carrying her luggage. Allen noticed her pinch him on the ass, and the man did a small skip at the sudden touch. Allen should his head and opened the envelope as Latisha winked at the attendant.

Josh Allen: 'Drive safe, see you in a few minutes. This car is wicked hot, yo, and for shizzle, it's got an explosion of features! 'Chnit says Yo. You deserve it, homeslice. -- AM'

The attendant passed Allen on his way back inside, pointing out the car to Allen. Allen looked up and stepped one foot when Latisha, getting in the vehicle, shut the door.

KABOOM! The vehicle went up and blames, the blast sending Allen and the attendant to the ground covering their heads from debris. Car alarms all over the lot began to sound, and passersby circled the area, staying clear of the danger. Allen didn't know what to do. He noticed the attendant's pant leg was not wet down the inside. He glanced at the card once again.

Josh Allen: Effin' shhhheeeet, man. What the freak?

Attendant: I hope she had a dental plan.

Josh Allen: Nah, she didn't have real teeth anyway. She liked to take them out to s... clean them. Yep, clean them. No matter now. So, you know of a guy named Andy Murray?

Attendant: Hm, I'll ask my boss if he's heard of him. By the way, I'm not sure we were introduced in all the action last night.

'Last night,' Josh thought. That car JUST exploded, not last night!

Attendant: I'm Geophrey. How'd the syrup come off?

The scene fades back to ringside, where Jake Steel is looking on with disgust.

Jake Steel: …Ugh, I don’t think I’ll ever be able to unsee that…

The lights go out in the arena as a countdown starts. Once it hits zero the beat hits hard, and the lights come back up with an explosion behind Arrington at the top of the ramp. He walks down the ramp, casually touching the hands of fans, but focusing on the ring.

Zach King: Ladies and Gentlemen, the following match is a Path of Destiny Semi-final match and is for the NLW Legacy Championship! Making his way to the ring first, from Atlanta, Georgia… Weighing in at 186 pounds... He is 'The Street Messiah' T...J....ARRINGTOOOOOON!

Arrington slides under the bottom rope, walks over to the far right turnbuckle, and looks out into the audience. He steps down, and goes to the corresponding diagonal turnbuckle and holds his hands up arrogantly. He steps down and leans back against the ropes, he then goes to a corner and begins preparing for his opponent.

Caelan Tyler: It’ll be interesting to see how these two competitors handle the stipulations of this match, neither man is well known for their technical prowess.

Jake Steel: Good wrestlers adapt Caelan, and TJ Arrington is a good wrestler.

Caelan Tyler: So is Heat.

Jake Steel: Only in your mind.

The fading-in echo of “I” ricochets from one end of the arena to the other.

As the chorus of “Won’t Back Down” by Fuel begins to play, Kevin Heat walks out with a smug smirk on his face as he gestures to his Legacy title. He ignores all crowd reaction, whether cheer, boo or indifferent, though jeers seem to be the majority. Either way, he walks down to the ring as if he owns the place, stopping to get a good look at the fans faces every once in a while and shaking his head in disappointment. He enters the ring gradually and stares down his opponent briefly before removing the Legacy championship from his waist and handing it to the referee.

Zach King: And his opponent, from Baltimore, Maryland… Weighing in at 228 pounds… He it the NLW Legacy champion… KEVIN HEAAAAT!

Caelan Tyler: The fans have really turned south on their opinion of the NLW legend.

Jake Steel: Of course, he’s starting to realize that he doesn’t need any of them to be successful.

The bell rings, and both men move towards the center of the ring, staring each other down before Arrington shoves Heat backwards. Heat steps back a bit as Arrington moves forward to get back in his face, talking smack to the Legacy champion. Heat shakes his head before raking the eyes of Arrington, causing Arrington to step back a bit in surprise as the crowd boos and the referee reprimands Kevin.

Caelan Tyler: The referee not liking the tactics that Heat’s using at all here in the early goings.

Jake Steel: See Caelan, we call that “strategy”. Heat knows he can’t outwrestle Arrington, so he’s doing anything he can get away with.

Caelan Tyler: Give Heat more credit as a wrestler than that.

Heat follows up with a swift kick to Arrington’s side and then a few forearms to the head before whipping Arrington across the ring. Arrington rebounds off the ropes and Heat hooks TJ’s arm and drags him to the mat with a takedown. From the position Heat quickly locks on an armbar, hoping to force TJ to use his allowed rope breaks early in this bout.

Caelan Tyler: That’s smart thinking by Heat, make Arrington use those rope breaks early and often.

Jake Steel: Arrington doesn’t need no stinkin’ rope breaks to win this match!

Rather than grab for the ropes Arrington drive his free fist into the ribs of Heat, and after several blows Heat releases the hold. Arrington then kicks Heat in the gut before hooking his head and lifting him into the air, bringing him down with a snap suplex! Arrington then tries to lock in a sleeper hold, but Heat is able to grab TJ’s head and bring him up and over with a snap mare, dropping Arrington to a seated position. Heat then kicks Arrington in the spine before dropping down and applying a chinlock, grinding his right knee into Arrington’s back as he does so.

Caelan Tyler: Heat continuing the pressure on Arrington, hoping to end this quickly.

Jake Steel: Of course, a man has got to get paid, and Heat loses he’s not going to get that payday.

Arrington reaches out with his leg, draping it over the bottom rope. The referee starts to count, and Heat releases the hold, pulling Arrington up to a vertical base. Before Heat could continue his assault Arrington gives him a thumb to the eye then plants Heat with a scoop slam. Arrington then bounces off the rope and leaps into the air, planting his knee right into Heat’s forehead. Arrington then grabs Heat’s left leg and pulls it up before falling forward, driving his elbow into Heat’s knee.

Caelan Tyler: Arrington in control now, although he needed to use one of his rope breaks in order to gain control.

Jake Steel: No sweat man, Arrington has this covered, Heat’s gonna be short one paycheck pretty quick here.

Caelan Tyler: I wouldn’t count Heat out yet Jake.

Jake Steel: That’s the beauty of it, if he is he loses! BWHAHA!

Arrington tries to drive his elbow into the knee a second time, but this time Heat is able to kick his leg free before rolling out to ringside to catch his breath. Arrington shakes his head before grabbing the top rope and leaping over, slamming into Heat with a splash, sending both men tumbling back into the guard rail. 1!

Caelan Tyler: The match is outside, a situation which is dangerous for both men.

Jake Steel: Yep, better to be inside where you don’t have to worry about a silly ten count pissing in your cheerios.

Caelan Tyler: No kidding.

Both men lie prone at ringside as the referee continues to count. 2! Arrington starts to stir and gets to his knees as Heat leans against the guard rail, one arm draped over it. 3! Arrington gets to his feet, delivering kicks to Heat’s midsection before sliding back into the ring. 4! Heat pulls himself to his feet, sliding into the ring to end the referee’s count as Arrington is there to greet him with heavy boots to the shoulder area.

Caelan Tyler: Heat gets himself back in the ring, but Arrington is making him pay for returning.

Jake Steel: You gotta do what you gotta do, and Arrington is in it to win it.

Arrington drops to the mat, driving an elbow into the back of Heat’s neck before positioning himself over Heat and yanking his head back, locking in a camel clutch on the Legacy champion. Heat quickly grabs for the ropes as the referee begins to count. Arrington releases the hold once the ref gets to 4, and Heat uses to ropes to pull himself up. The two men begin to exchange blows, and Heat manages to get the better of the exchange with a well-timed uppercut. Kevin then does a standing switch, hooking on a waistlock and bringing Arrington down with back suplex. Arrington bounces back up, and Heat catches him with a drop kick, sending Arrington back to the mat.

Caelan Tyler: Both men are down a rope break here, although the Legacy champion is in control of the match now.

Jake Steel: Come on now, don’t tell me that you honestly think you’re gonna see someone tapping like a little bitch, ‘cause last time I checked Venom wasn’t in this match.

Caelan Tyler: One of these days Jake he’s gonna make you pay for your wise cracks.

Jake Steel: Let him try!

Heat pulls Arrington back up, wrapping a side headlock on before running to the ropes, dragging TJ along. Heat jumps up and bounces off the ropes, spinning and dragging Arrington down with a bulldog. Heat pulls Arrington back to his feet, locking on an abdominal stretch, pulling at the ribs of Arrington.

Caelan Tyler: Another submission by Heat, a move we’ve never seen him use before today.

Jake Steel: Drastic rules call for drastic measures.

Caelan Tyler: I wouldn’t be surprised to see some innovation come from this match.

Heat continues to apply pressure, and Arrington reaches out, able to grab the top rope. The referee tells Heat to break it up but Heat is able to pull Arrington away from the ropes and re-apply the hold. Unable to make use of the ropes, Arrington struggles against Heat and is able to shift himself, tossing Heat down with a hip toss. Heat pops back up, and Arrington greets him with a vicious chop across the chest. Arrington then plants Heat with a DDT, leaving the legacy champion lying prone. Arrington then lifts Heat up, positioning his legs over the top rope as he hooks his arm around Heat’s head, positioning him over his shoulder before dropping down, and nailing the Tower of London on Kevin. Arrington quickly goes for the pin.

Jake Steel: This is it, no way Heat kicks out! WHOO! Venom/Arrington rematch here we come!

1…

2…

3? No, the referee motions that Kevin was able to get his foot onto the bottom rope before the 3 count, stealing victory from Arrington’s grasp. Frustrated, Arrington kicks Heat in the head before climbing the turnbuckles. Quickly sizing up the situation, Arrington leaps off, driving both his feet square into Heat’s chest. Arrington attempts another pin.

1…

2…

No, this time Kevin gets his shoulder up!

Caelan Tyler: Heat just isn’t going to stay down for the former NLW champion.

Jake Steel: Heat’s got more guts than brains, remember what happened last time you pulled this shit Heat, you got your punk ass maced!

Arrington shakes his head in disbelief before positioning Heat for the Lights Out. Before Arrington could hit the move Heat shifts, grabbing onto Arrington’s legs and dropping him with a double leg takedown. Still holding Arrington’s legs tight, Heat turns Arrington over and locks in a boston crab, cranking back on Arrington’s back. TJ yells out in pain before grabbing the bottom rope, wrapping his arm around it as the referee forcing Heat to release the hold.

Caelan Tyler: And that was the last of the rope breaks available to Arrington for this match!

Jake Steel: No matter, he won’t need ‘em! Finish it TJ!

Both men get to their feet and begin trading blows before Arrington gets momentum on his side with a kneelift. Arrington quickly follows that up with a vertical suplex, and drags Heat to his feet, looking for a second. Before Arrington could attempt it, Heat grabs him and rolls back, pinning Arrington down with a small package!

1…

2…

No, Arrington is able to get himself out of the pin!

Caelan Tyler: Arrington not falling for that one.

Jake Steel: Too damn smart for that shit.

Both men pop to their feet, and Heat manages to whip TJ to the ropes, and drills him with a spear as Arrington bounces back. The crowd booing loudly as he does so, Heat gestures to the ropes before running over, bouncing off into a picture-perfect moonsault aimed right for Arrington. Before he could connect though, Arrington rolls out of the way, leaving Heat to eat canvas as he smacks into the ring. Both men lay motionless as the referee starts his count.

Caelan Tyler: Both men are down, and you gotta wonder how much gas is left in the tank for both men.

Jake Steel: For Arrington it’s enough to get it done.

Caelan Tyler: Don’t go counting your chickens before they hatch.

1! Neither man is stirring, this match having taken a lot out of the two of them. 2! Still nothing. 3! There’s the slightest bit of motion from Heat, much to the crowd’s chagrin. 4! Arrington is starting to move now as well, and Heat’s pulling himself up on the ropes. 5! Heat’s got himself standing, leaning against the ropes. Arrington is slowly starting to get up. 6! Heat charges over to Arrington, but TJ is able to telegraph it and swings his leg, sweeping Heat’s feet out from under him. Arrington quickly drops down and hooks an STF on Heat, with the champion yelling out in agony as Arrington cranks back on his neck. Kevin slowly inches himself over, and after several tense moments manages to grab the bottom rope. Reluctantly, Arrington releases the hold.

Caelan Tyler: And that was the last of Heat’s rope breaks. From this point on either you fight your way out or you give up.

Jake Steel: This is where Arrington finishes Heat off so he can go reclaim his NLW championship at the next Uprising and become the first ever NLW triple crown winner.

Caelan Tyler: If Heat wins he can do the very same thing.

Arrington pulls Heat to his feet, clubbing his across the back before whipping him to the ropes. Arrington prepares himself for a back body drop but Heat, seeing it coming, does his best impression of an NFL punter and brings his boot right up into Arrington’s chest. Kevin then hooks the neck and hits a swinging neckbreaker. Pulling Arrington up, Heat moves behind him and hooks him with an inverted facelock before dropping down on one knee, driving his knee into Arrington’s back while cinching in the facelock for a move Heat calls Death by Fire.

Caelan Tyler: DBF! This could be it!

Jake Steel: Hell no, Arrington isn’t about to tap like some chump bitch!

With the hold locked on, the referee checks to see if Arrington gives up, but the former NLW and Anarchy X champion refuses to tap, and with his free arm begins to drive forearms into Heat’s temple. After a few blows Heat release the hold, and Arrington gets to his feet. Heat charges him, but Arrington quickly drills him with a superkick! Arrington hooks the leg!

1…

2…

No, Heat gets his shoulder up!

Caelan Tyler: How did Heat get that shoulder up? He’s gonna be going on sheer force of will at this point.

Arrington gets Heat back to his feet, but Heat quickly shoves him back then hits him with Heartburn! Arrington falls to the mat clutching his chest as Heat taunts the crowd some before climbing to the top rope. Leaping off, Heat drives an elbow right into the point of impact from his Heartburn superkick just moments ago and goes for a pin of his own.

1…

2…

Arrington is just barely able to kick out, the fatigue quite evident now in both men.

Caelan Tyler: Both men are down, and it’s still either man’s game at this point.

Jake Steel: Arrington will still pull through, I can promise you that!

Both men slowly rise to their feet, with Arrington cutting Heat off from doing anything with a haymaker before suplexing him. Arrington then pulls Heat to his feet, yelling out that it’s over before once again going for the Lights Out. Heat shoves Arrington out of position and catches him with a roundhouse kick! Heat pulls Arrington to his feet and lifts him up, dropping him face-first into the turnbuckle with a snake eyes! With Arrington dazed Heat grabs him and bounces off the ropes, shifting in mid-air to spike Arrington head-first to the mat with The Boston Brand! Heat goes for the pin.

1…

2…

3!

The referee holds Kevin’s hand in the air in victory as the bell rings, but he snatches it out, raising his own hands to a chorus of boos from the crowd.

Caelan Tyler: He did it, Heat retains!

Jake Steel: NO! Arrington, you were so close…

Zach King: Here is your winner and STILL NLW Legacy Champion… Moving on in the Path of Destiny tournament… KEVIIIIN HEAT!!!

A smirk forms on Kevin’s face at hearing his own name. He looks out in triumph at the Minneapolis crowd and shakes his head. The referee, a bit put off by Kevin’s attitude, hands Kevin back his title and Kevin leisurely puts it around his waist. As TJ Arrington rolls out of the ring, Kevin asks a ringside stagehand for a microphone. When Arrington has made his way to the back and Kevin has returned to the center of the ring, Kevin speaks.

Kevin Heat: Two down, one to go! And you people thought I couldn’t do it, didn’t you? You thought Kevin Heat was all talk and no fight, a running joke of the industry! Well, guess what, guys and dolls, you were WRONG!

The crowd breaks out in another chorus of boos.

Kevin Heat: I should have known… I mean, don’t get me wrong, Milwaukee fans are quite bottom of the barrel, but Minneapolis fans… I thought they were smarter… At least, smarter than this!

As another loud wave hits him, Heat waves off the crowd reaction.

Kevin Heat: No, I’m serious! You would think you would have learned by now. The longer you refuse to accept the truth and apologize, the worse it’s going to get! Whatever happens is your fault! And speaking of what happens…

Heat’s gaze turns towards the entrance ramp, hanging leisurely on the ropes.

Kevin Heat: …I believe that good ol’ Sully should have a nice little check waiting for me. Come on, Sully! Get on out here and present me with what I’ve earned!

Heat waits a moment, and “In My Grip” by Samhain blasts loudly through the arena. The crowd pops as Jack Sullivan steps out, anger glinting in his eyes as he stares down Heat. Kevin watches Jack walk down the ramp and up onto the apron, never once breaking his cold glare. In Jack’s right hand is clearly a written check while in his left is a microphone. However grudgingly, he does seem to have held up his end of the bargain. When Jack enters the ring, he holds up the check into Kevin’s view.

Jack Sullivan: You have the audacity to call me out here? To try and make me give you this check?! Let’s not forget, Heat, I’m not your opponent anymore – I’m your boss!

The NLW owner feels the check within his fingers.

Jack Sullivan: Give me one good reason why I shouldn’t just shred this check into a million pieces!

The crowd agrees, urging Sullivan to rip the check in half. However, Heat holds up his hand for attention.

Kevin Heat: Because… if you don’t give me that check… you won’t get your birthday present!

Sullivan looks at him in disbelief.

Jack Sullivan: What birthday present?

Kevin Heat: Give me the check and you’ll find out.

The grin never leaves Heat’s face. Though Kevin’s nature is extremely suspicious, Jack reluctantly gives the check to the Legacy champion.

Jack Sullivan: Now, what’s this ‘present’ you’ve got? …And you better not wreck anything.

Kevin puts the check into his tights and withdraws from the back of his Legacy title a Zippo lighter monogrammed in fiery letters. He looks up toward the ceiling of the stadium, as does everyone else, and a shimmering black line falls down. Upon closer inspection, it appears to be a fuse line. Kevin opens the lighter just under the fuse…

Kevin Heat: Come on, Sully. When have I ever wrecked anything?

…and, to Sullivan’s horror, he lights the fuse. Sparks cascade in all directions as the line lights up, slowly but surely making it to the top. The entire crowd watches as the fuse line spreads when it reaches the ceiling of the arena. Not only that, but the fuse line seems to spell out words:

Caelan Tyler: We’re outta time folks, see you next week!