'Game On' by Discipline begins to play as the words 'NLW' flash across the screen, and the scene flashes back to last Uprising, where Olivia Winterborne defeated Troy Munday, Ethan Dashery rolled up Eddie Williams to win a triple threat also involving Roxy Erikson, Josh Allen defeated Kevin Heat, and in the main event 'Untamed' Nick James retained his Legacy Championship against Okuma! The scene cuts to ringside, with Caelan Tyler and Jake Steel.

Caelan Tyler: Hello and welcome to Uprising, and with me tonight as always is 'The Real Deal' Jake Steel.

Jake Steel: I need a new gig.

Caelan Tyler: Nonsense Jake, we got a great show lined up with all the Path of Destiny qualifiers, along with the World Title match between Jesse Williams and Josh Allen!

Jake Steel: Not a single hardcore match booked for a second show in a row. This is disappointing.

Caelan Tyler: Can't always get what you want Jake.

Jake Steel: Why the hell not?!

Caelan Tyler: Life's not always fair.

Jake Steel: It should be.

The soft piano in Pennywise's 'Unknown Road' begins to play melodically throughout the arena. The calming melody almost soothing to the crowd, roars of cheers or jeers are contained to solitary shouts from random attendents rather than the group as a whole. A few moments passes, and Corbin Damari emerges from the back with a domineering presence, but not one of hostility or pride - merely the subtle resolve of determination. Without losing stride, he glances out over the arena inquisitively before giving a satisfactory nod. Upon reaching the ring, he uses the stairs to guide his way into the squared circle. The melody of 'Unknown Road' still ringing through the arena, keeping the crowd at bay. A few more moments pass which seem to last a life time, before the melody begins to drift off. Corbin merely stands in his corner, head bowed, pacing, in some what of a pre-match meditation. Once the music has finally faded out, his head raises, determination radiates from his eyes as the sound of the bell is awaited in quiet contemplation.

Zach King: The following match is scheduled for one fall and is a Path of Destiny qualifying match! Introducing first, from New York City, New York... weighing in at 215 pounds... CORBIN DAMARI!

Caelan Tyler: The battle of the newcomers here, both vying to catch the eye of the fans and the brass.

Jake Steel: And desperate not to lull us to sleep, guaranteeing themselves 'best wishes in your future endeavors' notes.

Caelan Tyler: That too, of course.

'Redneck' by Lamb of God plays, as Emanuel Jackson's massive form appears on the stage, menacingly lumbering down to the ring.

Zach King: And his opponent... From Parts Unknown... weighing in at 255 pounds...EMANUEL JACKSON!

The audience resounds with boos, perhaps if nothing else for his appearance, with his face hidden behind a twisted mask.

Jake Steel: I'll tell you what, I'm not falling asleep in Jackson's matches. That's a face out of nightmares. Or your mother's womb.

Caelan Tyler: If you were born any better it would only be with the doctor slapping the cute off your face after birth.

Jake Steel: Hey now. Snarky is my department, stick to play by play.

Just before the bell rings, Emanuel Jackson charges across the ring with a roar, surprising Corbin Damari and smashing him into the turnbuckles! Jackson throws fist after fist into Damari, pummelling him mercilessly, before rearing back, and throwing a huge headbutt right at Damari's face!

Caelan Tyler: Jackson taking the early advantage with a cheap shot, and now looking to do some serious damage!

Jake Steel: Holy cow, this guy is four hundred pounds of punishment in a two-fifty body.

Jackson's headbutt misses, as Corbin Damari ducks, and hammers Jackson back with a taste of his own medicine, a few punches to the bigger man's ribs! He tosses Jackson into the corner instead, and connects with an elbow strike right against Jackson's face! Jackson barely reacts though, and rakes Damari's eyes, before shoving him back and right across the ring! Jackson charges again, looking for another devastating avalanche splash like the one that started the match, but Damari sidesteps, letting the big man smash into the turnbuckles without his target. Damari grabs Jackson from the side, and snaps him to the mat with a side Russian leg-sweep.

Caelan Tyler: We're seeing a bit of variance here on the part of Corbin Damari. He's versatile, something that'll help him against a one-dimensional threat like Jackson. If Jackson wins, it'll be because of his brutal power and brawling. If Damari wins, it'll be because he's brought enough of an arsenal to counter Jackson's power.

Jake Steel: And if someone doesn't start with a lot more of the bleeding and pain and a whole lot less of the 'side Russian legsweep,' I'm going to pop some Benadryl and call this a nap.

Jackson rises quickly from the legsweep, but Damari immediately descends on him, stretching the big man with a seated armbar, to the point where he puts his foot against Jackson's torso to get more leverage on twisting his arm back. Jackson powers out of the hold, slowly fighting away Damari's leverage. He makes his way to his feet, before finally flinging himself quickly sideways, and blasting Corbin Damari aside with a surprise low spinning kick. Jackson's on him quickly, stomping away and preventing him from catching a breath. He drops his weight hard across Damari with a short splash, and holds it for a cover!

1...

...kickout! Damari gets a shoulder up, and as if to punish him for it, Emanuel Jackson promptly bashes him with a headbutt, and then another and another!

Jake Steel: Man, I see big things in the future for Emanuel Jackson. I mean, don't get me wrong, he's creepy as all hell, but boy, he's doing some whompin' and stompin' like it's his business, and business is good!

Caelan Tyler: He is definitely a dangerous opponent if you let him get close and stay close. He'll deliver the pain and quickly.

Damari rolls out of the ring, catching a gap in Jackson's barrage and giving himself some breathing room. Unfortunately for him, Emanuel Jackson is quick to pursue, and immediately rolls out of the ring as well. Damari takes Jackson down to one knee with a low dropkick to one of the big man's legs, and then climbs to the apron, and flattens Jackson to the floor with a running crossbody block!

Caelan Tyler: Corbin Damari is definitely still in this fight, but you get this methodical sense from him, as if he's looking to tame that animalistic offense of Emanuel Jackson. Jackson's anything but subtle, but you can only get pounded so long before you fall. Damari's giving the fight right back to Jackson, but if he doesn't get some seriously powerful offense underway soon, he may find that he's only temporarily halting Jackson.

Jake Steel: The short version is: Start whooping ass, or get your ass whooped.

Caelan Tyler: Yes.

Damari begins striking at Jackson, and helps the bigger man to his feet, perhaps setting him up for further punishment. Jackson lunges forward however, and Damari is again on the receiving end of Jackson's brutal bashing offense. Corbin struggles fiercely though, and shifts his position up, so that instead of being left prone to Jackson's strikes, he's clinched his legs around one of Jackson's arms and his head in a triangle hold! Even while noticeably weakening, Jackson clubs Damari fiercely with his free hand, before getting to his feet, hunched over, and half-heartedly smashing himself and Damari into the ring apron.

Caelan Tyler: Emanuel Jackson willing right there to take the hit against the apron to break Corbin Damari's hold. His offense is simple and brutal, but there's definitely some calculating going on behind that mask.

Jake Steel: That's even scarier than if he were just a big dumb animal.

Caelan Tyler: I don't and won't often say this Jake, but you're quite right there.

The two men stagger to their feet, Damari sliding into the ring first, being followed closely by Jackson. Jackson takes aim at Damari with a massive lariat, but Damari ducks it, and laces into Jackson's mask with several punches, before moving on to elbow strikes. With the giant reeling, Damari bounces to the ropes, catching him with a heel kick upside the face, which takes Jackson to the mat. Corbin Damari jumps right on him, clinching a front headlock, looking to further sap the strength of the big man. He appears to be having some success, when Jackson finds some inner well of strength, and rams himself into the corner, squashing Damari there as well and breaking the hold.

Jake Steel: I like how Emanuel Jackson really uses his full weight. A few times now he's thrown himself around like a wrecking ball, crushing Damari here and there.

Caelan Tyler: Very true, Jackson isn't the biggest competitor we've ever seen, but even so he throws his size around more effectively than most others. Most bigger wrestlers try to use their strength with power maneuvers to cause maximum damage. Jackson just takes his weight and hammers the gas pedal, smashing anything in his way.

Jackson follows up with a simple barrage of strikes, clubbing Damari and stomping him down. Damari slides himself between the ropes, forcing the referee to bring the raging behemoth under control. Slowly but surely, the referee pulls Jackson away, only for Damari to leap forward, opportunistically smacking Jackson in the face with a no-lead enziguri! He escapes the corner, and Jackson's infuriated! He charges at Damari, toward another corner, but Damari has him scouted, and rolls him into a small package!

1...

2...

...Kickout! Damari shifts position, quickly clamping onto Jackson with a side headlock, this time!

Caelan Tyler: Corbin took an opportunistic shot there on Jackson, but it seemed to be the best he could do to escape the pummelling. Again he returns to headlocks, working to drain Jackson, and I can't help but think that this would be how he builds to The Milieu, his trademark neutralizer.

Jake Steel: How can you have a sleeper as a finisher? Really?! In the day and age of 450 Splashes, of Chimera Suplexes, of Inverted Mexican Pescadalodillos, the best you can come up with is a sleeper?!

Caelan Tyler: Yes, and I'm pretty sure you're making up that last move.

Jake Steel: Am not. I saw it once. Down in...Mexico.

Emanuel Jackson again attempts to counter the headlock by ramming himself and Damari into the corner, but Damari, better positioned with the side headlock, catches the top turnbuckle with his legs, and springs back, instead dropping Jackson to the mat with a 180 bulldog using Jackson's own momentum! Damari goes for a cover!

1...

2...

...Kickout! Damari seems unfazed, quickly gesturing for the end, and lifts Jackson to his knees, before clamping on The Milieu! Jackson senses his danger, struggling fiercely, but Damari's grip can't be broken from Jackson's position. He seems quickly weakened, but he makes it to his feet, and throws himself almost listlessly into the corner, just barely with enough force to jar Damari free from his hold. Corbin Damari seems reinvigored, and quickly smashes knees into Jackson's head and face over and over, sensing weakness for possibly the first time in his opponent. A spinning elbow strike leaves Jackson nearly out on his knees, when Damari steps back only long enough to ram a Yakuza kick into the big man that leaves him sprawled in the corner.

Caelan Tyler: You definitely get the feeling that the tide has turned. Maybe Damari doesn't need some super move to do damage, rather, just using headlocks and sleeper variants to drain opponents until they're extremely vulnerable.

Jake Steel: BOR-ING.

Caelan Tyler: More boring than your hardcore spotfest faves, yes, but also effective.

Damari takes to the second rope, bringing an elbow drop across Emanuel Jackson's throat! He goes for another cover!

1...

2...

Kickout! Jackson's just not done yet! Damari goes to lift Jackson to his feet, but Jackson shoves him away hard, buying him some desperate recovery time. Jackson charges again at Damari, but by now Damari's got this game down pat. He dodges, and Jackson crashes violently into the corner. Before he can react, Damari leaps on him, clamping on the Milieu, while hooking his legs on the ropes, forcing Jackson to stay in the corner, unable to build momentum vital to breaking the hold! The referee counts to five, telling Damari to get off the ropes, and at five he finally does, but the damage is done! Jackson looks to charge into the opposite corner to crush Damari again...but he falters in the middle of the ring! Crashing to the mat, the referee raises his hand, testing him...and it falls! Damari has him clinched tight! The hand falls again! And a final time as the referee calls for the bell!

Zach King: Here is your winner and the man qualifying for the Path of Destiny tournament... CORBIN DAMARI!

Caelan Tyler: What a debut match for Corbin Damari, putting the beast Emanuel Jackson to sleep! He'll be one to watch in the future!

Jake Steel: He won...with a...sleeper. He's one to watch...if you're an insomniac and need relief.

Caelan Tyler: Always such a downer Jake, sheesh.

Jake Steel: What can I say? I know what I want to see, and it's not that.

The camera cuts backstage to one of the entrances to the arena. A stretch SUV limo, crimson in color, pulls up to the door of the arena and sits there for a few moments.

Jake Steel: Wait a second... Jack Sullivan wouldn't be seen in one of those, Jesse Williams is already here, as is Josh Allen. So who the heck is it?

Jake's question is answered soon enough as the door closest to the camera opens, and a pair of rather large legs slide out, followed by what appears to be a stick of some kind. A moment later, the head and upper torso of the person can be seen, and the arena's roof nearly comes off the hinges.

Jake Steel: NO! Not this worthless piece of trash!

Caelan Tyler: I don't believe it, not so soon!

The man stands there for a few moments, looking around before grabbing what is clearly the NLW Anarchy X championship belt and moving into full view. He closes the door to the modified limo and slowly makes his way towards the arena door, using the cane for support.

Jake Steel: He must be here to drop off the belt he does not deserve and go live in obscurity for the rest of his life!

Caelan Tyler: I wouldn't be too sure, Jake. After all, this is his hometown, and the man who injured him is defending the NLW Championship in our main event.

Jake Steel: That doesn't give him an excuse to be here--

Jake is interrupted at this point by the man entering the arena, and the camera turning to see NLW President Eriq Mobely waiting by the door, a smile on his face.

Eriq Mobely: I was hoping you'd show up, Phoenix.

Phoenix smiles and extends a hand towards Mobely, who shakes it.

The Phoenix: You kidding? I wasn't going to miss Uprising in my hometown for anything.

Eriq Mobely: Good. Come into my office; I have some things to ask you.

Phoenix nods, and the two men walk off-camera before the shot cuts back to ringside.

Jake Steel: Great, this night just took a turn into the crapper.

Caelan Tyler: Say what you will, Jake. I think it's good to see The Phoenix back from such a horrific injury!

Jake Steel: If it were him in a wheelchair, or a pine box, I'd agree with you!

Caelan Tyler: ...Whatever Jake...

'Adrenaline' by 12 Stones Blast through out the arena, and 'The Promise' John Thomas bursts through the curtains, making his way down the ramp.

Zach King: The following match is scheduled for one fall and is a Path of Destiny qualifying match! Introducing first, from Portland, Maine... Weighing in at 285 pounds... 'THE PROMISE' JOHN THOMAS!

Caelan Tyler: Here's a new signing for NLW, and he seems to have that superstar look about him, Jake.

Jake Steel: Yeah, well your mom has that--

Caelan Tyler: Knock that off, dammit!

Lights go out as the crowd ohhhs and ahhs in anticipation. Evolution by Ayumi Hamasaki begins as a light show plays. Okuma followed by his ring entourage begins to run through the hallway and out to the entrance area. His (and the entourage's) run slows to a walk as the crowd cheers him down the entrance way. A spotlight flashes down on him and follows him all the way. The entourage follows behind Okuma as he jumps up onto the ring entrance and enters the ring going to a neutral corner. He then removes his bright purple ring robe and tosses it to a member of his entourage. His entourage, with the exception of his interpreter and manager Asuka, then walk back to the locker room area.

Zach King: And his opponent, from Osaka, Japan... Weighing in at 232 pounds... OKUMA!

Caelan Tyler: One's got to wonder how Okuma's back is after the ending to the Legacy title match last Uprising, and if that is going to affect his in-ring work tonight.

Jake Steel: Still say that Nick was right in doing what he did. No ref, no rules!

The bell sounds to begin this contest, and before the echoes have faded out Okuma has shot in, using a double-leg takedown to put Thomas on his back before transitioning it to an arm bar. The newcomer clearly wasn't expecting Okuma to go to the attack this early, and the surprise means that it takes him a few more seconds to get to his feet as he looks to find a way out of the hold. Deciding on a course of action, Thomas looks to clothesline Okuma, who ducks and spins around quickly before executing another double-leg takedown, this time floating over into a side headlock. Thomas is able to get out of it from behind, getting Okuma in a hammerlock as both men get to their feet. Okuma reaches up and grabs the head of Thomas, utilizing a snap mare to send him down. Thomas is up before Okuma can come back in, though, and the pair eye each other carefully as they slowly circle the ring.

Caelan Tyler: Nice little bit of chain wrestling to start us off, though the size difference is clearly apparent here.

Jake Steel: Oh, no, not more of this technical wrestling crap.

Okuma darts in, looking for another takedown, but Thomas is ready this time and scrambles out of the way before locking in a front face lock. Okuma tries to slip out the back of the hold, but Thomas wrenches on the head to prevent that from happening, before transitioning to a side headlock takedown. Okuma gets his legs up to counter into a head scissors, which Thomas quickly breaks as both men regain their footing. Once again Okuma comes in looking for a takedown or a technical move, but John Thomas puts an end to that with a European uppercut that rocks Okuma back a step or two, and a second one follows this. With Okuma briefly stunned, Thomas comes back with a running forearm to drop his opponent to the mat before applying a rear chinlock, both knees driving into the base of Okuma's neck as he applies pressure.

Jake Steel: Seriously, Caelan, I'm going to fall asleep if this sort of stuff continues.

Caelan Tyler: Jake, there are other people watching this besides you. Deal with it.

Jake Steel: Needs more chairs....

Thomas keeps the hold locked in for about a minute before releasing it, letting Okuma fall to the mat. A quick elbow drop follows this before 'The Promise' pulls Okuma to his feet. An Irish whip follows, sending Okuma across the ring, and a powerslam results on the rebound, with Okuma hitting hard on the mat. Thomas holds for a cover, but doesn't even get a two as Okuma pops a shoulder up. Instead of arguing or anything non-productive, Thomas pulls his opponent up to his feet before setting up for--and hitting--a vertical suplex. On impact, 'The Promise' again rolls into a cover, but just barely gets two as Okuma wriggles free.

Caelan Tyler: First attempted pinfall of the match, but it's still too early yet for either man to be weakened enough.

Jake Steel: Yeah, because I'm not asleep yet.

Caelan Tyler: Why do I bother with you?

The look of determination doesn't waver from Thomas' face as he pulls Okuma to his feet again, and this time hits a variated backbreaker, letting Okuma fall to the mat with one hand pressed to his back. His eyes never leave the form of his opponent as 'The Promise' sizes Okuma up, and delivers a deliberate knee drop to the forehead. The newcomer seems to be in control here as he methodically works over the Japanese technician.

Jake Steel: Okay, he might show some promise here, Cael. Anything besides those boring rest holds and submissions works for me.

Caelan Tyler: Man, what is it about tonight that has you in such a foul mood?

Jake Steel: We're in the dump that spawned Phoenix. Need I say more?

Thomas steps back, watching Okuma waste his energy to get to a vertical base. As Okuma finally does so, 'The Promise' comes up behind him, a rear waistlock quickly moving into a German suplex. It's a released version, and the impact folds Okuma like an accordion as he lands hard on the shoulders and back of his head. Thomas scrambles over for a cover:

1...

2...

Left shoulder just off the canvas at two and a half! Unfazed, Thomas gets to his feet, watches Okuma get to his knees, and charges in, this time hitting a swinging neckbreaker to send the smaller man down to the mat again. Another cover by Thomas:

1...

2...

Two and a half only, as Okuma barely gets a shoulder up in time!

Caelan Tyler: 'The Promise' showing some decent offense here as he nearly puts Okuma away with a couple of high-impact moves.

Jake Steel: No blood, so it doesn't count, but they looked like they hurt!

Thomas has a look of mild disbelief on his face, as if wondering if it's some sort of internal reflex that keeps popping his shoulder off the mat. Shaking his head briefly, he pulls Okuma to his feet and whips him into the far side ropes, looking for a big boot to possibly set up the Broken Promise. He never gets a chance, though, as Okuma rolls under the offending appendage and nearly decapitates Thomas with a lariat clothesline as the larger man turns around!

Jake Steel: LARIATOOOOOOO!

Caelan Tyler: What in the blue hell was that, Jake? Did you just step on a cat's tail or something?

Jake Steel: You've never seen anyone do a lariat in Japan? That's what they call it over there!

Caelan Tyler: ...right. Since when do you care about what something is called?

Jake Steel: If it's good enough for Stan Hansen, it's good enough for me!

Caelan Tyler: I'm not gonna ask....

Okuma is slow to get to his feet, having been beaten around for the majority of the contest so far. Thomas is up first and tries for a right hand, which Okuma blocks and returns fire with a forearm shiver to the temple. This result is repeated twice before Thomas staggers back a step or two. Okuma is quick to capitalize with another takedown, this time quickly moving into a half crab. It doesn't take long for Thomas to get to the ropes due to his size, however. As Thomas gets up, Okuma hits a forearm to the small of the back, and follows this up with a back suplex that he barely manages to get off due to the size difference. Again Okuma looks for a submission, this time attempting a standing heel hook grapevine, but once again Thomas is able to power his way to the ropes to force the break.

Caelan Tyler: The size disadvantage that Okuma has in the match is starting to show; it's harder for him to lock in a submission and prevent Thomas from getting to the ropes.

Jake Steel: Yeah, yeah, yeah, whatever.

Caelan Tyler: ...Why the heck are you on the phone, Jake?

Jake Steel: Hey, can I call you back in a while? There's an annoying whine in the arena and I can barely hear you over him.

Caelan Tyler: Oy....

Okuma is waiting for Thomas to get to his feet, and as the larger man does so, Okuma comes in with a textbook step-up enzuigiri that nearly takes 'The Promise's' head off of his shoulders! Thomas drops in a heap in the dead center of the ring, and now Okuma feels confident to lock in a good submission as he applies an STF on his opponent. He wrenches back on the hold for all that he can, but Thomas is refusing to submit. After a minute or so, Okuma releases the hold, realizing that it's not meant to be on this occasion.
He instead waits for Thomas to get up, much like what was done to him earlier, before exploding into action with a hard roundhouse kick that catches Thomas on the temple! 'The Promise' drops like he's just been killed as Okuma falls into the cover:

1...

2...

Thr--no! Thomas somehow gets a shoulder up!

Jake Steel: Damn...where has that been all match, and why isn't there more of it?

Caelan Tyler: Okuma showing off some of his shoot-fighting skills with that kick, it had to have rattled the brains of 'The Promise' with that impact!

Okuma seems to be in control at the moment as he sizes up his foe for the next offensive series, and starts with a thrust kick chained into a leg sweep that sends Thomas down to the mat near a corner of the ring. A quick elbow drop follows this, but Okuma sees the ring positioning and refrains from trying another submission move. Instead, he grabs the arm of Thomas and tries to pull him closer to the middle of the ring, getting an extra foot of clearance before locking in a Fujiwara armbar that Thomas is quick to scramble to get a foot under the ropes to break the hold.

Jake Steel: For the love of...get it through your head that those are not going to work!

Caelan Tyler: Can't blame the guy for trying what he knows best, Jake.

Jake Steel: Yes, I can!

Caelan Tyler: ....

Most people would be upset at this point, but Okuma remains cool and calculating as he waits for Thomas to get up again. As he does, he charges in perhaps looking for a roaring elbow, but Thomas ducks, bounces off the opposite ropes and almost spears Okuma out of his boots! 'The Promise' can't even hold into the cover as he falls off of Okuma, looking a bit winded from some of the assault he's suffered in the match. The referee doesn't even begin to get a count going, however, as Thomas struggles to his knees, and then to his feet. He shakes the cobwebs out, sees the condition Okuma is in, and grimly smiles, knowing that he could end the match with just one more move.

Jake Steel: Good, he's looking to end this snorefest. It's about time, too!

Moving a few feet away, Thomas takes up a stance, bouncing on his feet as Okuma uses the ropes to get up. He finally does so, and as he starts to turn around 'The Promise' comes out looking for the Broken Promise superkick...but Okuma catches the foot! Thomas tries for an enzuigiri, but Okuma ducks it as Thomas ends up on the mat. With one foot in hand, Okuma grabs the other leg and quickly applies the Deathlock, knowing that he's got it in the very center of the ring! Thomas tries to claw his way forward, but the ropes are just too far away and Okuma's got the hold locked in tight. He's got no choice in the end, as he hits the mat in submission. Okuma breaks the hold immediately as the bell sounds, a small smile crossing his face.

Zach King: Here is your winner, qualifying for the Path of Destiny tournament...OKUMA!

Caelan Tyler: Okuma's advancing in the Path of Destiny tournament, which will help him rebound from that loss to Nick James last Uprising.

Jake Steel: Ugh, two boring submission specialists in that tournament?

Caelan Tyler: What's wrong with submission wrestling Jake?

Jake Steel: Everything!

Flickering red and purple stage lights strobe over the dimmed entrance and the upbeat tempo of Angry Young Man by Billy Joel slams out through the arena. The curtains burst open with flourish and James pauses on the stage, looking down to peer out at the crowd over top his sunglasses, with both the Legacy and NLW Tag Team championships strapped around his mid-section. Soaking in their cheers for a moment, James brushes them off, marching toward the ring while he wraps white tape around his wrists. James leaps from the floor to the apron without even taking a running start, then hooks an arm over the middle rope and rolls through into the ring, throwing his arms out to the sides and spinning in a circle as he enjoys the spotlight.

Zach King: The following match is scheduled for one fall and is a Path of Destiny Qualifier match! Introducing first, from Brantford, Ontario, Canada... Weighing in at 171 pounds... He is the one half of the NLW Tag Team champions as well as the Legacy champion... 'UNTAMED' NICK JAMES!

Caelan Tyler: If there's one thing you can say about the current Legacy Champion, it's that Nick James tries every match to do something we've never seen before.

Jake Steel: And most of the time, that causes 100% ABUSE~!

The electric guitar riffs of punk rock's favorite all star cover band span the arena, as Me First and the Gimme Gimmes' piss-free version of 'I Believe I Can Fly Hits.' The crowd reacts with slight approval and mostly apathy and the sight of 'The True Blue Titan' Troy Munday, as he bursts through the curtain with a manic spree of side stepping and chest beating. Happy with the display of intensity, he begins a skip-jog to the ring. Bounding from guardrail to guardrail in an effort to slap hands with a few interest fans, Troy's massive hands manage to slap concessions across the crowd. Paying no attention, he gives me last chest slap and dives into the ring.

Zach King: And his opponent, from Green Bay, Wisconsin... Weighing in at 278 pounds... 'The True Blue Titan' Troy Munday!

Caelan Tyler: What a clash of styles here, Nick James and his chaotic offense against the pure power and technique of the massive Troy Munday!

Jake Steel: Munday needs to ditch this dumb act and his clean style, and start killing folks dead. He's big enough to strangle a cow with his bare hands!

Caelan Tyler: And a clean hundred plus pounds heavier than Nick James, with almost an extra foot of reach on him as well. If Nick isn't careful, he's going to get broken.

Troy Munday slides into the ring, stepping into the center and puffing up as best as possible while staring down at Nick James. Staring WAY down. The referee calls for the bell, and Nick steps forward as well, glaring up defiantly at Troy as they stand chest to chest. Nick throws a forearm up into Munday's chest, but Munday hardly moves, until he lunges forward, shoving Nick back so hard that Nick tumbles to the mat and right out of the ring!

Caelan Tyler: What a display of power! Nick James is not going anywhere by trading blows with Troy Munday.

Jake Steel: He's not stupid, at least I don't think. He's gonna start playing his own game soon.

Nick shakes his head, before nodding with respect to Munday, and climbing back onto the ring apron. He goes to step through the ropes...and quickly steps back, vaulting to the top rope, and springboarding off toward Munday with a high flying dropkick! Munday is taken back to the ropes, and on the rebound Nick drops to the mat, looking for a drop toe hold! But Munday stops abruptly, and drops to the side, dropping an elbow right across Nick James' neck! He presses the advantage, quickly yanking Nick James to his feet, clamping on a nelson, and throwing him back to the mat with a bridging dragon suplex! The referee starts the count!

1...

2...

Kickout! Nick James struggles mightily, finally kicking Munday in the abdomen, which breaks his bridging pin.

Jake Steel: Whoa, I thought he broke Nick's neck with that clampy-suplex thing.

Caelan Tyler: A dragon suplex.

Jake Steel: That thing. Boy, there's boring technical wrestling, and then there's that thing. Cool name, too, where'd you come up with that?

Caelan Tyler: Umm...I didn't. It's just what it is. A dragon suplex.

Jake Steel: Yeah, sure. I bet you came up with that from the same button combination as a Sonic Boom.

Troy Munday seems unfazed by James' kickout. He lifts Nick again to his feet, this time tossing him atop his shoulders for a Torture Rack. Nick quickly counters, though, flipping down and jarring Munday's neck with a bulldog! Munday staggers to one knee, and Nick takes to the corner, leaping back toward Munday with a flipping neckbreaker. Munday catches Nick, though, and throws him out of the ring with a mighty heft! Nick catches himself on the apron! Munday turns around, surprised to see Nick still standing, as Nick grabs Munday's neck and drops to the floor, bouncing Munday's neck against the rope!

Caelan Tyler: Munday and James seem to have each other scouted well, watching out for each others' strengths.

Jake Steel: Except for now, with Troy letting Nick get away from him.

Nick James drops Troy Munday to the mat by pulling his feet out from under him. Still on the outside, Nick pulls Munday almost completely out, until only his shoulders and head are still in the ring. James promptly leaps atop the guardrail, and then back toward Munday, landing a legdrop across Munday's waist! The force of the blow snaps Munday forward, which snaps his throat against the bottom rope! Nick is slow to his feet from the awkward landing, but Munday is left gasping for air on the arena floor!

Caelan Tyler: There's some trademark offense by Nick James, finding a new way to hurt his opponent!

Jake Steel: With him, anything becomes a weapon. And I like weapons in wrestling.

Nick James slides into the ring, clutching his head, as the referee begins the ten count on Troy Munday.

1...

2...

Caelan Tyler: Nick seems to be using this time as a breather, content to force Troy to beat the count himself or lose via countout. Not the most honorable of wins, but Nick's shown a bit of a mean streak lately anyway.

Jake Steel: Mean streak? He doesn't suffer idiots, and here he's generally surrounded by them, that's all.

3...

4...

Nick now rests in the corner, clearly willing to take the countout win here. Munday, meanwhile, finally makes his way to his feet, appearing to catch his breath.

5...

Munday finally moves to slide into the ring, as Nick looks annoyed. He charges from his corner, and with a baseball slide sends Munday staggering back to smash into the guardrail. The count having been broken, Nick slides out of the ring, beginning to pound down the giant Munday with elbow strikes and stomps. With Munday reeling against the guardrail, Nick begins to step away, far enough to get some momentum on a sprint. He spots a big man in the front row cheering him on loudly, and catches his attention. He motions to the man, who nods excitedly. Suddenly, Nick charges roughly toward Munday, but veers toward the crowd at the last minute, leaping with a Superman-like suicide dive into the crowd! His chosen fan catches him, quickly pushing him off, which sends Nick crashing across Munday and the guardrail with a fan-assisted crossbody splash!

Caelan Tyler: You really never know what to expect from Nick James! He trusted that fan to push him right onto Troy Munday, but boy did it pay off!

Jake Steel: Fans at home, take note: No matter how obese and/or socially inept, you too could take part in an NLW match.

Caelan Tyler: That's a bit cynical, don't you think?

Jake Steel: I can be snarky, we're far enough away from that big fan that he can't hear me.

When Nick recovers, he begins stripping one of the mats off of the floor, baring the concrete surface beside the ring! Nick heads over to Munday, dragging him to the bare floor, before clamping him in a headlock and twisting him around with a stalling neckbreaker, looking to drop Munday right on the concrete! Munday breaks free from Nick's awkward grip on his much-larger frame, and clamps him with a waistlock, almost on auto-pilot, and sickly smashing Nick James to the concrete floor with a German suplex!

Jake Steel: CARNAGE! AGONY! ABUSE~!

Caelan Tyler: Dear God, Jake, this isn't the time to cheer, Nick James could be seriously hurt! Troy Munday probably doesn't even realize what he just did!

Jake Steel: What he did was probably just win a match with that kind of punishment!

Troy Munday gets up slowly, clearly still in somewhat of a haze from the Nick's erratic assaults. He turns, finally spotting Nick on the floor...and looks almost sick to his stomach! He realizes the referee count on him and Nick is getting high, and he rolls into the ring and then out again, before crouching low to check on Nick. He picks him up delicately, perhaps looking to slide him into the ring and mercifully end the contest quickly. Nick halts him, though, clutching his neck in pain and hollering at Troy to put him down. Troy does, nervously, looking very scared for Nick, when Nick grabs him and attempts to whip him toward the ring steps!

Jake Steel: Abuse and now deception! Ahh, Nick James, you sly master of the grapping arts!

Caelan Tyler: That's pretty despicable!

Nick barely gets the big man moving, though, and Troy Munday is slow to counter the whip from the shock of Nick James' deception! He does, though, his fierce grip and overwhelming power too much for James to fight! Munday sends James racing toward the steps...but Nick catches himself without harm, and turns sharply, looking to again catch Troy off guard! Troy's not trusting Nick at all now though, and lets him eat a big boot for his efforts!

Jake Steel: What's despicable, milking an injury, or kicking an injured man in the head?

Caelan Tyler: Nick James is getting everything he deserves.

Without any respite, Troy Munday hefts Nick James across his chest, and then throws him back overhead, high and mightily, launching him right back over the ropes and into the ring with a massive fallaway slam! Munday's quick to follow up, getting in the ring and making a cover!

1...

2...

...

Kickout!

Jake Steel: Nick James stays alive! OHHHHHH CAAAAN-A-DAAAAA...

Caelan Tyler: You're particularly irritating today.

Jake Steel: As opposed to any other day? Look, Cael, every broadcast needs two things; one lame ass play by play guy, and then a color guy to make things interesting. You figure out who's who here.

After somehow getting the strength to kick out of the cover, Nick slowly crawls to all fours, only to be literally tossed clear across the ring as Munday connects with a rediculously powerful running knee lift! Nick James smashes helplessly into the turnbuckles, before slumping to the mat. Troy Munday goes for another cover on the stunned and hapless Nick James.

1...

2...

...

Another kickout! Troy Munday stares at the referee, holding up two fingers, in complete disbelief!

Caelan Tyler: I have no idea how Nick kicked out of that cover! He might have broken ribs, a concussion, internal injuries, any multitude of injuries from that knee lift that hit harder than a head-on car accident! And that after taking that massive fallaway slam from outside the ring, over the ropes, and all the way to the middle of the ring!

Jake Steel: Don't get me wrong, I still think Munday's a few bales of hay short of the farm. But he's his mind on abuse and abuse on his mind.

Caelan Tyler: Abuse is an understatement! Yes, Jake, I went there. You saw that knee lift! Nick went from stationary, low to the mat, to flying across the ring and crashing into the opposite turnbuckle! That's not real-life mauling. That's video-game type carnage! That's Lu Bu cleaving through infantry destruction, it's Master Sword to Ganondorf trouble, it's rolling six 1's on a dexterity roll to pull a hand grenade pin level devastation!

Jake Steel: Let it be noted that I get what you're saying, but it's like you're trying to find the lamest way possible to say it.

Caelan Tyler: ...it's 'All your base are belong to us!' mangling...

Jake Steel: Okay, this shark's been jumped and badly. To do any worse you'd have to cut the feed and collectively rickroll our entire viewing audience.

Caelan Tyler: Like you haven't thought about it before.

Nick James somehow gets to his feet quickly, but as soon as he does it's quite clear that nobody's home upstairs. Troy stalks him, before finally delivering a solid boot to his abdomen, and hunching him over, looking for a gutwrench powerbomb. Nick goes up for the ride...and flips down with a hurracanrana counter! But Troy's mass is too much for Nick to spin to the mat! Munday lifts him back up, even with Nick fighting him all the while...and powerbombs him right into the corner turnbuckles!

Jake Steel: AHH SKEET SKEET!

Caelan Tyler: How did I know you wouldn't pass up a chance to make that reference? But yeah, we've seen that maneuver before, quite devastating coming from any powerhouse like Munday. James slumps to the mat just out of the corner, as Munday goes for a cover!

1...

2...

...

Kickout yet again! Munday shakes his head, he just can't seem to put Nick James away! He steps back, all the way to the opposite corner, and charges toward Nick, hopping right over him as he bounds up the corner turnbuckles, and comes down with a top rope Vader Bomb on Nick James! Nick curls up, and Troy eats knees instead of hitting his target! Nick staggers to his feet, looking horrible as he leans against the corner, before dragging himself up the turnbuckles, and smashing a somersault axe kick from the second turnbuckle right over the back of Munday's neck and head!

Caelan Tyler: And somehow, after all the carnage, Nick James finds himself badly battered, but with the momentum in his direction!

Jake Steel: Nick James' axe kicks would be finishing maneuvers for most wrestlers out there. He doesn't usually strike well, but that's one thing he's learned to hit and amazingly hard.

Troy Munday looks almost unconscious from the strike, and Nick James looks like he's going to climb the ropes, to go for the Anti-Williams! He second guesses himself though, deciding to stay put in the corner, while Munday slowly rises, his eyes hazy. James motions to his foot, slapping his boot, and slowly climbing the turnbuckles...and smashing another somersault axe kick over Munday's head! Munday looks almost completely out, but James shoves him, shaking him, and slapping his face, as if to revive him! The referee tries to start a ten count on Munday to rise, but James keeps shaking him off, moving Munday to break the referee's count! Munday finally begins to show a little life, when Nick again climbs the ropes, and smashes another somersault axe kick over him!

Caelan Tyler: James has had a mean streak lately, but what the hell is going on here with him? Is he trying to kill Troy Munday? The referee had better stop this before this becomes a career-defining...or ending...moment.

Jake Steel: Ah, it's just Nick taking out some aggression on Troy for his attacks earlier in the match. Nick's just getting his ounce of flesh and all that. See? He's motioning to the ref, who wants to end this, he's telling him just one more move, and he'll make the cover.

Caelan Tyler: Sickening. The referee should end this now, and stop Nick from doing anything further. This is embarrassing, it's not wrestling, it's barbaric, a young kid throwing a temper tantrum and taking it out on a legitimate competitor.

Jake Steel: His theme is 'Angry Young Man,' Cael. It's not like we don't expect it.

True to his word, Nick James ascends the ropes a final time, before crashing down over Munday's unconscious form with the Anti-Williams. He barely puts any effort into the cover.

1...

2...

3!

His music begins to play as Nick James rises slowly, obviously bruised and aching all over. He ignores the referee, who doesn't bother raising his hand in victory anyway. Nick heads around the ring to grab his Legacy belt, before staggering up the entrance ramp, hearing a more mixed response than usual after such an aggressive display. Inside the ring, the referee tends to Troy Munday as medics begin to head down the ramp.

Zach King: Here is your winner, and the competitor advancing in the Path of Destiny tournament... 'UNTAMED' NICK JAMES!

Caelan Tyler: A great back-and-forth match there, marred by a bizarre ending, perhaps just further confirming Nick James as the premier player in NLW today, but a malignant and unpredictable competitor at that.

Jake Steel: It's only a matter of time. With this new found respect for brutality and shades-of-gray morality, Nick is definitely the man to beat right now, and will likely be the top dog here before anyone does stop him.

Caelan Tyler: If he brings that kind of intensity to each match maybe...

Eriq Mobely's name stuck out on the embezzled name plate backstage. But the golden shine meant nothing to Josh Allen, who pressed his way into the office. Mobely was on the phone.

Eriq Mobely: ... they feel they have too much invested in the company.

He glanced up as Allen plopped himself down in a chair and slammed a shiny magazine cover onto Mobely desktop.

Eriq Mobely: Listen, let me call you back.

He slammed the phone down and sat back in his chair.

Eriq Mobely: JA, it's been a while. Feeling better? What's this?

Mobely reached for the magazine cover and looked it over. The cover featured a prominent photo of Eriq Mobely, a bit goofy looking, likely taken while Mobely was out in public doing nothing officially related to NLW. The headline was large and bright: 'The Fall of NLW,' with a subhead 'Who Cares?' printed beneath.

Josh Allen: It's my first issue since taking over the company. What do you think? I couldn't have been more proud, honestly.

Eriq Mobely: What company?

Josh Allen: Doesn't matter. The point is, what are you going to do about this? You fucking sit in this office, thinking you've done NLW a favor by removing Jack Sullivan, and look what happens. You have a rogue champion who is never around.

Eriq Mobely: Well, we had to work around his schedule. Contractual obligations and all. You're very aware of what it takes to run a company, if I recall. I know what truly works for NLW. Remember, I was a forefather!

Josh Allen: Are you forgetting that I was there, too? Have you forgotten WE worked to start this company? This is a sorry excuse for a wrestling company, the way you're handling business. You need to put someone in charge here who actually gives a damn. You're too much of a Boy Scout, Eriq. You can't even tell me where your world champ is, and he's scheduled for a match tonight to defend that gold.

Eriq Mobely: He'll be here. Now if you'll excuse me, I have some work to do.

Eriq tossed the magazine cover into the nearby trashcan and shuffled some papers. Josh stood and chuckled as he walked to the door.

Josh Allen: You should have stayed out of the behind-the-scenes crap and kept drawing your profit from home, Eriq. This place is going to eat you alive, if it doesn't tank before you wake up and realize we need someone in charge who gives a fuck.

Allen stepped into the hallway, but turned back around.

Josh Allen: When I bring back the NLW Championship tonight, you can bet I'll be at Uprising start to finish. And you can sure as hell bet I'll be fighting to have your ass removed. Even if that means pulling some strings I still have with the stakeholders. We're all capable of surprises, Eriq.

Allen turned and walked away, leaving Eriq red and pissed off. Mobely walked to his door and slammed it shut. He turned and walked back toward his desk, and decided to take another glance at the magazine. He flipped inside to the story Allen had written in his newly-purchased publication.

Eriq Mobely: ... If you're looking for disaster, you'll find it not in the next big UFC, MMA or pro wrestling fight, but in the New Legends of Wrestling company itself - a company Eriq Mobely and other private stakeholders will sink in a matter of weeks if someone doesn't step up to the plate ... If only he knew...

Caelan Tyler: That was a very cryptic conversation between the challenger in tonight's main event and the boss.

Jake Steel: I don't know which one I hate more.

Caelan Tyler: Since where were you selective about who you hated on? I'm more curious about what he wanted to talk to The Phoenix about.

Jake Steel: Beats me.

'Walking on Sunshine' begins playing, as the lights of the arena shift into bright shades of pink, green, and blue. Olivia Winterborne steps out onto the stage, wearing an intensely bright pink singlet, with a sparkly My Little Pony design in the middle of her chest.

She strikes a pose for the audience, as bright colored fireworks and sparklers go off behind her. She hops happily down one side of the ramp, high five-ing every...single...person on that side. When she reaches the bottom, she heads all the way back up, and repeats for the other side, making sure to not miss a single extended hand.

Once she finally gets to the ring, she slides in, and grabs a microphone from a staffer.

Olivia Winterborne: I'm Olivia Winterborne...

The audience cheers decently.

Olivia Winterborne: ...and YOU'RE AWESOME!

The crowd goes nuts, as she tosses the microphone out of the ring, as her music stops playing.

Zach King: The following match is scheduled for one fall and is a Path of Destiny qualifier! Introducing first, from West Valley, Utah... Weighing in at 280 pounds... 'COOL AND REFRESHING' OLIVIA WINTERBORNE!

Caelan Tyler: Olivia has to be considered a dark horse in the Path of Destiny tournament, Jake.

Jake Steel: I dunno Cael, she might not even make it there, not with Nuklear Heat on the horizon!

'Fireproof' begins to play as Kevin Heat walks onto the stage, pauses, then takes a dead run to the ring. He slides into under the ropes, the crowd watches as he stands on the turnbuckle, getting a big pop from the fans.

Zach King: And her opponent, from Baltimore, Maryland... Weighing in at 228 pounds... KEVIN HEAT!

Caelan Tyler: Heat's a former Anarchy X champion, and the first Legacy Champion. But even I think that he's got his hands full tonight.

Jake Steel: Eh, he's got this in hand. I'm not going to worry.

Caelan Tyler: Since when did you start backing Heat again?

Jake Steel: Since he started wrestling people I don't care for again.

The bell rings and both wrestlers meet each other in the center of the ring. Olivia goes for a lock up but Kevin Heat ducks under it and gets behind her. Olivia Winterborne turns around and is met with a dropkick that causes her to stumble. She doesn't fall though as Heat gets back on his feet and starts off with fire as he starts throwing forearms into Winterborne. Heat goes for the Irish Whip but Olivia refuses to go. He goes for it again but Olivia reverses it and sends Heat into the ropes. Heat bounces off the ropes chest first and stumbles backwards into Olivia who goes for an early German suplex. She lifts Kevin Heat into the air but Heat flips in the air and lands on his feet diving down with both elbows on the still down Olivia. Olivia rolls out of the way though and Heat misses. Heat quickly gets up and goes for another forearm shot to Olivia but Olivia rocks him with a boot in the stomach and then a double ax handle to the back that sends him down to one knee. Olivia takes a few steps back and then hits Kevin Heat with a boot sending him on his back. Olivia is excited as she screams 'YAY I DID IT' and applauds herself.

Caelan Tyler: Back and forth action to begin the match, and right now Olivia's size and power are proving to be an advantage.

Jake Steel: Heat's still got this covered. All the strength means nothing if you don't know how to use it in the ring! Though I wonder, Cael...first thing in the match and you're already mentioning Olivia's size. Trying to tell us something?

Caelan Tyler: Call the match, Jake, and get your head out of the gutter.

Jake Steel: Nope, my mind is happy where it is!

Olivia grabs Heat by the head to pick him up all while saying 'COME ON LETS HAVE A GOOD MATCH'. She picks him up and throws him into the corner. She charges in with a clothesline nailing him. Heat stumbles out of it and is met with an open slap right in the face that knocks him down to the mat. Olivia drops the elbow and goes for the cover...

1...

2...

Kick out!

Caelan Tyler: What was that about experience, Jake?

Jake Steel: Not the kind of experience you're thinking about, Cael.

Caelan Tyler: ...

Heat is nowhere near being put away. Olivia picks him back up and scoops him for a bodyslam easily slamming him down on the mat. Olivia is all smiles as she picks him back up and Irish whips him into the ropes. She goes for a clothesline but Heat ducks it. Heat puts on the breaks and waits for her to turn around and goes for a roundhouse kick but Olivia blocks it before scooping him up and body slamming him down harder than before. She drops down for another cover attempt.

1...

2...

Kick out!

Olivia is still all smiles knowing she has the match under control. She picks Kevin Heat back up and Irish whips him again into the ropes. Heat catches the ropes this time and keeps from bouncing back. Olivia gets excited and charges in but Heat gets both feet up catching her in the face. Olivia stumbles back a bit from the hit as Heat charges but Olivia catches him with a powerslam going for yet another cover.

1...

2...

Shoulder up!

Jake Steel: Come on, Heat! Dammit, I need to make good on the Yankees-Red Sox series I lost!

Caelan Tyler: Again with the betting, Jake? When will you learn?

Jake Steel: NEVER!

Olivia is dominating the first part of this match as she gets up and stomps Kevin Heat a couple of times before picking him back up. She goes for a third body slam but Kevin Heat wiggles out of it and lands behind her hitting her with a dropkick from behind that sends her stumbling forward. It doesn't knock her down however as she just turns back around and walks over and stomps down on Heat before he can fully get back up. She lays the boots down on him some more, some stiff shots at that, before picking him back up and clasping him in a bear hug. There is a Heat chant going on as Olivia shakes Kevin Heat left and right applying more and more pressure. Heat goes gets an arm free from the bear hug and goes for a forearm shot. It seems to have little effect. Heat goes for a second forearm shot which seems to daze Olivia but she just shakes him harder in the bear hug. Kevin Heat decides to go for a desperation maneuver and hits her with a headbutt that rocks her and causes her to let go of the bear hug. Kevin Heat drops to his knees as Olivia stumbles back holding her forehead. Olivia comes forward but Kevin Heat quickly drops down, wrapping his feet around one of her's and taking her down with a drop toe hold. Olivia is down on the mat and Heat quickly stumbles up on his feet. He waits for her to start standing up before running into the ropes and he bounces off jumping into the air with a flying clothesline nailing Olivia and sending her backwards. It doesn't knock her down though. Kevin Heat bounces off the ropes again and jumps into the air with another flying clothesline knocking her backwards a little bit more but not knocking her over.

Jake Steel: There's the experience I mentioned before, Cael!

Caelan Tyler: You have a point, I must grudgingly admit. Can Heat take full advantage here?

Kevin Heat seems a bit frustrated but he yells 'ONE MORE TIME' as he bounces off the ropes again and goes for another flying clothesline but Olivia is prepared for it and ducks... except it was a fake by Kevin Heat who sends a foot flying into the bent over Olivia's face causing her to stand straight up. Kevin Heat uses this moment to attempt a roundhouse kick and this time he nails it sending Olivia stumbling backwards up and over the top rope as she lands on the floor! The Referee begins a ten count.

1...

2...

Olivia stands up

3...

4...

Olivia rolls back in the ring.

Kevin Heat dives down over her for an attempt cover as she rolls back
in the ring.

1...

2...
Kick out!

Caelan Tyler: Heat was waiting for the cover, but Olivia's still got too much in the tank yet.

Jake Steel: You like seeing that, Cael?

Caelan Tyler: ...What the hell is that supposed to mean?

Kevin Heat doesn't attempt to pick her up waiting for her to get up on her on. When she does he puts her in a side headlock. He jumps up in the air and sends her crashing down on the mat face first. He gets up on his feet and goes up to the top rope climbing up it with his back facing Olivia Winterborne. Olivia Winterborne stands up unable to find Kevin Heat. She turns around and finds him moonsaulting through the air connecting as Olivia falls over with Kevin Heat on top of her. The Referee quickly goes down for the count.

1...

2...

Shoulder up!

Kevin Heat is now in charge of the match as he again goes up on the top rope. Olivia Winterborne is slow to her feet but she gets up this time facing Kevin Heat who comes off the top rope with a flying cross body. Olivia Winterborne catches him though! Olivia waits a few moments before nailing him with an Uber-Spin Side Slam that causes the crowd to go 'ohhhhh' in agony as Kevin Heat arches his back in pain.

Caelan Tyler: Olivia right back in charge here, catching Heat in one of the most classic of mistakes by the former Juniorweight champ!

Jake Steel: He's just setting up Winterborne for a fall, Cael. Oldest trick in the book; one you probably know from experience.

Caelan Tyler: Is it too much to ask you to call the damn match?

Jake Steel: Yes. Yes it is.

Olivia is back in control after temporarily losing it. She makes what could be a mistake though and doesn't go for the pin attempt. Instead she picks him up and grabs him in another bearhug. This time she only holds it for a few seconds though before she spins around and nails him with a spinebuster. 'THAT'S IT' Olivia screams gleefully as she covers him hooking the leg.

1...

2...

Shoulder up!

Olivia's smile half way disappears as she can't believe Kevin Heat still has fight in him after those two big moves. She picks him up and Irish Whips him into the ropes. She ducks down for a back body drop attempt but Kevin Heat hops over her. She turns around and is hit with the Heartburn. Olivia goes down clutching her chest but Heat can't go for his finisher as he also falls down exhausted from the punishment he has taken. The crowd is in an uproar watching this awesome match between the two. Kevin Heat slowly crawls over and covers Olivia Winterborne for the pin attempt.

1...

2...

Shoulder up!

Caelan Tyler: Back and forth here; this could easily be anyone's contest.

Jake Steel: Come on, Heat, don't leave me hanging like this! I need you to win, damn it all!

Kevin Heat slowly pushes himself up on his feet with Olivia not to far behind. They are both standing but Kevin Heat kicks her in the stomach hunching her over once more and quickly implants her down on the ground with a vicious DDT. She rolls over on her back. He doesn't go for the cover though in stead walking over to the ropes. He grabs the top rope and springboards on top of it coming off with a moonsault. Olivia Winterborne gets her knees up though and Kevin Heat lands on them bouncing into the air due to the force of the impact and landing on his back. Both wrestlers are now down.

Caelan Tyler: Heat with the high-risk maneuver, but he's too winded to take advantage.

Jake Steel: It doesn't help that he landed on a damn trampoline!

Caelan Tyler: That was uncalled for, Jake!

Jake Steel: So? Truth hurts, Cael! Don't get angry at me for verbally attacking a woman of your type!

Caelan Tyler: ...'my type?' For the love of--

The crowd is cheering both wrestlers on now as they try to make it on their feet. Heat gets to his feet first and approaches Olivia who forearms him in the gut hunching him over. Olivia is now all the way on her feet and she returns the favor with a DDT of her own. She doesn't go for the cover though instead picking him back up and Irish Whipping him into the corner. She charges in and CRUSHES HIM in the corner. Kevin Heat stumbles out of the corner hurt as Olivia Winterborne runs into the ropes charges and goes for the lariat. Kevin Heat ducks it. Olivia Winterborne turns around as Kevin Heat goes for the heartburn a second time. Olivia blocks it and throws Kevin Heat's foot back down and NAILS HIM WITH THE LARIAT! She covers him hooking the leg. The Referee goes for the count.

1...

2...

SHOULDER UP!!!

Caelan Tyler: Olivia comes so close to pulling off what may be considered an upset after the lariat, but Heat is able to get free.

Jake Steel: Hey, Cael, I'd bet you would like to be in Heat's boots right now, right?

Caelan Tyler: Excuse me?

Jake Steel: You know, where he is, on his back while Olivia gets on top and--

Caelan Tyler: I'm going to stop you before the censors do, Jake.

Jake Steel: Not my fault you like the larger women, Cael.

Caelan Tyler: *sighs exasperatedly*

Olivia Winterborne stands up and begins stomping down on Kevin Heat once again. She picks him back up and Irish Whips him into the ropes. Kevin Heat like he did previously in the match holds on to the ropes and succeeds in not bouncing back. Olivia Winterborne takes the bait once again charging at Heat who ducks down grabbing the top rope with him. Olivia Winteborne topples over the top rope. Kevin Heat rolls out onto the apron and gets on his feet. He waits for Olivia Winterborne to stand up before springboard up to the top rope and flying through the air with an Asai Moonsault connecting beautifully onto Olivia Winterborne. The crowd erupts at this display as both are now still down. The Referee begins the count.

1...

2...

3...

Kevin Heat begins to stir as Olivia Winterborne is still down.

4...

5...

Kevin Heat is crawling toward the apron but Olivia is also stirring.

6...

7...

Kevin Heat is at the apron but Olivia Winterborne is crawling right behind him.

8...

9...

Kevin Heat tries to pull himself up on the apron but Olivia Winterborne on her knees reaches up and grabs him by the leg and pulls him down.

10... DING DING DING

The Crowd boos as the Referee calls for the bell signaling a double count out. A chant of 'bullshit... bullshit' breaks out as the crowd is not pleased by the ending.

Zach King: Ladies and gentlemen, the referee has counted both participants out of the ring; this match is therefore a draw.

Jake Steel: So who advances in the tournament?

Caelan Tyler: I have no idea...

Jake Steel: Why not? You should be on the ball about these sorts of things!

Caelan Tyler: ...

The lights go out in the arena, sending everything to total darkness.

Jake Steel: What the hell? Did Mobely forget to pay the electric bill or something? How are we supposed to have a main event like this?

Just then, a piece of music not heard in NLW before hits the speakers--Linkin Park's 'New Divide.' The arena remains dark as the opening verse hits the speakers:

I remember black skies, the lightning all around me
I remembered each flash as time began to blur
Like a startling sign that Fate had finally found me.
And your voice was all I heard, that I get what I deserve...

The music fades to near silence here, and various voice clips play over the speakers:

I damn near crippled you. Three strikes and you're out.

See, Caelan, I told you that Jesse Williams is a champion we can be proud of! Look at what he did to that worthless sack of--

...NO MORE!

The voice clips end suddenly with that familiar voice, as the refrain to the song hits. Pyro erupts from the stage, cueing the lights to return...and standing on the entrance ramp, a cane for support in one hand and his neck brace conspicuously absent, is one of Baltimore's own. The ovation is almost deafening as the man wearing a custom-made #48 'Phoenix' jersey from the Baltimore Ravens slowly makes his way to the ring.

Jake Steel: Oh, for the love of all that is good, why don't you just go choke somewhere else already?!

Caelan Tyler: I doubt he can hear you, Jake, not with this ovation!

The big man finally gets to the ring, and Zach King helpfully parts the ropes as the hometown wrestler eases himself into the ring. A moment later, he's standing in the center of the ring, a microphone in hand as he slowly turns to get a view of the arena, the music fading away to silence. A slow, pained smile can be seen on his face.

The Phoenix: ...My God, it's good to be home.

The arena erupts in another ovation, as a 'Welcome Back!' chant begins to echo. A slight smile crosses the big man's face as he motions for the noise to subside a little.

The Phoenix: You know, when I imagined this happening, I imagined that I would be in here without this cane, and holding up the NLW Championship. Fate, it seems, is not without a sense of irony.

There is a smattering of boos, which Phoenix doesn't pay any mind to as he continues.

The Phoenix: You see, in a perfect world I would be standing here, telling you my neck has miraculously healed, and that the main event match would become a Triple Threat for the NLW Championship. In a perfect world, Joe Flacco would have won the NFL's Rookie of the Year award last season for getting us to the AFC Championship game--

Another big ovation, and a chant of 'Flacco! Flacco!' erupts as the man in question stands from his ringside seat and acknowledges the crowd.

The Phoenix: --and in a perfect world, Jake Steel would be marooned on a desert island with his only choices for conjugal visits being his own mother, Jesse Williams, and a sheep.

The crowd lets out a collective 'oh!' at that one, as Jake's face turns a bright shade of red at ringside.

The Phoenix: But let me get to the real reason I'm here. I was invited specifically by Eriq Mobely to be on hand for this match against two people who I've had a long history with. Now, I can't do anything physical thanks to my neck, but there is nothing stopping me from taking that third seat at ringside--

The camera pans over to show that there's now an empty seat next to Caelan Tyler, while a look of dawning disgust crosses Jake Steel's face.

The Phoenix: --And watching that piece of garbage Jesse Williams get what he's got coming to him. Strap yourselves in, folks. This is going to be epic.

'New Divide' hits again, as Phoenix slowly exits the ring and heads for the commentary booth. He and Caelan shake hands, and the big man promptly ignores Jake as he gets settled into his seat and dons the headset.

Caelan Tyler: So this is what Eriq Mobely wanted from you, Phoenix?

The Phoenix: Along with handing over the Anarchy X title and a couple of other things, yes. I want to be here and watch Williams get beat like the cur he is.

Jake Steel: This night cannot get any worse.

The Phoenix: You wanna bet?

Jake Steel: Yes, I'll bet. It can't!

'Riot' by Three Days Grace hits, causing some unsettled fans to stand and boo. Josh Allen strides onto stage and treads down the aisle, shaking his head in apparent disgust at some of the front-row fans.

Zach King: The following match is for one fall and for the NLW Championship! Introducing first... From Broken Arrow, Oklahoma... Weighing in at 221 pounds... JOSH ALLEN!

Caelan Tyler: Now this is a rematch I've been looking forward to seeing!

The Phoenix: I will admit I've been curious about seeing it myself.

Jake Steel: Bah to this!

The lights go black as a deep, eerie growl is heard over the PA. Immediately we hear dirty, distorted guitars come in before being followed by the drums kicking in. The second verse of 'Motel of the White Locust' by Glassjaw hits the PA System.
Now I kiss up to God, my fists and I pray to keep my head.

Though I like your pretty eyes better blackened,
And my fists all fucking red.
Through sickness and health, I've kissed up to God.
Two years, I have focused...
On the cameos made by the tiger in the valley of the fucking locust.
Who could ever...
Who the fuck could ever...
Take the place of me?
Who could ever...
Who the fuck could ever...
No one can the place of me.

After the chorus, we see Jesse Williams walk out from the back- with the NLW World Heavyweight Championship draped over his right shoulder, and the OWF World Heavyweight Championship strapped around his waist. The lights come back up to a normal setting, shining upon the entire arena. He takes his time walking towards the ring, making sure to take in all his surroundings. The fans boo him mercilessly as he walks down the ramp, keeping his eyes set on the ring. He gets to the bottom of the ramp and stops as the music starts to kick back in.

Wipe off your mouth!
Get up off your knees, and make me your god!
Who could ever,
Who the fuck could ever?
It's sexual debauchery you fucking cunt, you fucking whore, you cost what you're worth.

He slides into the ring, directly under the bottom rope, immediately holding his arms up high. The fans keep on him, letting him know exactly how much they hate him. He walks to the side of the ring closest to the cameras. He backs into his corner, with a wide smile upon his face.

Followed by a boy like this,
Reignited by all your visits.
As long as your mouth is shut,
You'll still be fucking beautiful.

The song ends abruptly and Williams begins to stretch his upper body, using the ropes to get himself prepared. The referee approaches him and Jesse hands him the NLW Title first -- then unstraps the OWF Championship from around his waist, holding it in the air.

Zach King: And his opponent, from Las Vegas, Nevada... Weighing in at 235 pounds... He is the reigning NLW and OWF World Heavyweight Champion... JESSE WILLIAMS!

Caelan Tyler: This will be Jesse Williams' first defense of the NLW Championship inside an NLW ring, and it's against a former NLW Champion.

The Phoenix: Should be a great match.

Jake Steel: Yeah right.

Caelan Tyler: Josh Allen was never defeated for that title, but had to forfeit it for medical reasons.

Jake Steel: Should've been like The Phoenix and stayed injured.

The Phoenix: ...

As Jesse hands his belt to the referee Josh Allen charges him, drilling him in the gut with a spear before delivering a flurry of rights to the surprised champion. The referee grabs Allen, trying to pull him off while telling him the match hasn't even started yet so he has to let up. Reluctantly Allen does as instructed, and the referee calls for the bell to officially kick off the match. Allen scowls a bit at the referee before delivering a boot to the side of Jesse's head, taunting the NLW champion to get up. Jesse instead opts to roll out of the ring to the outside, shaking his head as the crowd boos loudly. Allen taunts Jesse, but Williams holds up his ten fingers and mouths that he's got time.

Caelan Tyler: Not exactly the start I expected for this match...

Jake Steel: Psh, that's a genius start on his part. Make Allen tire himself out chasing him!

The Phoenix: That's disappointing, I was hoping to see Jesse actually be willing to get into an actual wrestling match here.

Jake Steel: You mean like what you do?

The Phoenix: Yes, exactly that Jake.

Jake Steel: But I thought those are called 'eating contests'?

Caelan Tyler: ...Hoo boy.

The referee has started his count, and Allen shakes his head in frustration as Williams circles the ring, seemingly looking for the best possible way to re-enter the match. The referee gets his count up to eight before Williams slides in, and Allen immediately charges him, catching the champ across the back of the neck with a sharp elbow shot. Yanking him up by the hair, Allen delivers a stiff right to Jesse's forehead while the ref tells him to let go. Allen releases the hair, going for another right, only for Jesse to block it and grab Allen with a collar and elbow tie-up.

Caelan Tyler: Jesse looking to slow down the pace that Allen opened up with via the tie-up.

Jake Steel: Of course, who wants to work at a pace that allows Josh Allen to wail on them?

Caelan Tyler: I suppose you're right there...

The Phoenix: Allen's a deceptively good technical wrestler though, slowing it doesn't here isn't going to be the issue you'd think.

Jake Steel: And you'd know all about slo--

The Phoenix: Yes Jake I would, I've seen tape of you wrestling.

Caelan Tyler: Oh burn!

Jake Steel: What?! I was an amazing wrestler!

Williams delivers a knee to the gut of the challenger, doubling him over and allowing Jesse to club across Allen's back with a hammering blow. Allen drops to his knees, causing Jesse to bounce himself off of the ropes and charge back, looking to crack Josh across the skull with a big knee. Allen moves his head out of the way, but Jesse comes flying back, delivering a shining wizard! With the challenger down and out Jesse goes for the pin:

1...

2...

No, Josh gets the shoulder up!

Caelan Tyler: Quick pin attempt there by Jesse, but the former champion is made of sterner stuff than that.

Jake Steel: ...Did you just make a Transformers reference?

Caelan Tyler: Um, yeah?

Jake Steel: LAME!

Caelan Tyler: Oh come on...

The Phoenix: No, sadly I have to side with Jake here, that was pretty bad.

Caelan Tyler: *Sighs*

Jesse pulls Allen to his feet, delivering a vertical suplex before pausing to contemplate his next move. With Jesse goading him to get up, Allen gets to a vertical base. Jesse then attempts to deliver a dropkick, but Allen steps out of the way of the blow. Jesse pops back up immediately, but Allen catches him with a clothesline. Both men pop back up, but this time Allen takes the champ to the mat with an arm drag. Jesse pops up, only to catch a right hook to the jaw, staggering him back into a corner. Allen charges, leaping up and sandwiching the champion into the turnbuckles!

Caelan Tyler: Allen back in control here, using some of his trademark agility to keep the champion on his toes.

The Phoenix: He's going to have to keep it up if he plans on putting Jesse down for the count.

Jake Steel: You know, he could just swing a chair a few times and accomplish the same thing.

The Phoenix: Where's the sportsmanship in that?

Jake Steel: ...Sports...man...ship?

Caelan Tyler: It's a foreign concept to him Phoenix.

The Phoenix: So I've noticed.

Jesse staggers out of the corner, with Allen grabbing him and delivering a bulldog that smashes him face-first into the mat. Allen then drops a knee across the small of Jesse' back before rolling him over for a pin attempt:

1...

2...

Kick out! Not wanting to give Jesse any time, Josh rolls him over and ties him up into a surfboard! The referee asks Jesse if he wants to give up, but Jesse refuses to.

Caelan Tyler: Submission locked in by Josh, but will it be enough to make Jesse tap out?

The Phoenix: I hope so, I'd love to see him give up.

Jake Steel: Submissions are so boring, I want to see exploding ladders or something similarly awesome.

The Phoenix: Isn't that what your wife said the last time you two--

Caelan Tyler: Whoa, time out kids, this is a family show!

Realizing that he's got going to get a submission out of Jesse this early, Allen relents on that front, releasing the hold and letting Williams fall to the mat. Pulling Williams to a seated position, Josh delivers a swift kick to the back of the champion, causing him to wince in pain. Allen repeats this multiple times, picking up speed each time before finally teeing off of the champ's head! Allen then goes for a pin:

1...

2...

No, shoulder up!

Caelan Tyler: Rather unusual choice of moves by Allen to put Jesse down, although he's been in the ring with the champ before, so he knows all about what it would take to try to score a pin on him.

The Phoenix: Sometimes you have to leave your comfort zone to be successful. I was the longest reigning PDA Champion in OWF history, and I was definitely out of my comfort zone for that.

Jake Steel: Wouldn't the comfort foods be pulled in by your gravitational pull though?

The Phoenix: You know Jake, the more you comment on my size and make fun of people like Olivia the more it makes me think that maybe deep down you really do dig the big people. I think you're projecting.

Jake Steel: Projecting?

The Phoenix:Yes. You can't admit it to yourself, so you make it sound like Caelan likes them.

Jake Steel: Do not!

The Phoenix: Denial is the first sight of a problem Jake. Soon the self-loathing kicks in.

Josh Allen stands up before reaching downwards, looking to pull the champ back to his feet. This time the champ's having none of it, and he reaches up as Allen bends over, grabbing his head and rolling him up into an inside cradle! The referee falls into position to count the pin:

1...

2...

No, kickout! Both men pop up to their feet, trading right before an eyerake allows Jesse time to breath. He follows it up with a wicked chop across the chest, causing the crowd to wince as Allen's chest starts to turn red. A snap suplex puts Allen on his back, and the champ in control. He grabs both of Allen's legs, holding them up before stomping between them onto Allen's mid-section.

Caelan Tyler: A rather quick turn of events has the champion in charge here, although who knows what he's got in mind now.

The Phoenix: Not a good spot for Josh Allen to be in, that's for sure.

Jake Steel: Jesse would just beat him with the belt, get disqualified and retain the title, I don't see what's so difficult about that.

The Phoenix: Simple Jake, even a disrespectful punk like Jesse Williams isn't about to take the easy way out of keeping his gold, he has more self-value than that.

Jake Steel: What? That's non-sense; it should be at all costs!

The Phoenix: This is why you never accomplished a thing in wrestling. Now Caelan, he had respect and he won gold.

Caelan Tyler: Exactly!

Jake Steel: Psh, like that counts.

With both legs held under his arms, Williams attempts to get Allen turned over for a boston crab, but the challenger struggles against it, doing everything he can to try to keep the champion from succeeding. Jesse will not be denied, however, and after a few moments of effort he manages to flip Allen onto his stomach before cranking back on the hold, bending Allen's spine in ways it wasn't meant to be. Allen immediately tries to grab the bottom rope, but finds it just out of reach. Allen struggles slowly manages to inch himself forward, and after several agonizing moments manages to grab the bottom rope. The referee immediately tells Jesse to break the hold and starts the five count. At four Jesse releases it, yelling at the referee and holding up his hand to show that he knew he had the five count.

Caelan Tyler: Jesse tried a submission hold of his own, but Josh was able to grab the ropes.

The Phoenix: See? That is what ring awareness accomplishes. Allen didn't panic; he just got himself to the ropes to break the hold.

Jake Steel: He looked pretty panicked to me, although maybe looking like he's about to cry is a 'calm' look for Josh. Cael would know I'm sure.

Caelan Tyler: That definitely wasn't panic Jake, more like determination.

Jake Steel: Yeah, determined to look panicked.

With Allen still holding onto the bottom rope Jesse begins to stomp on his back and side before dragging Allen up by the hair in the same manner that the challenger was doing to him just minutes before. With Allen up Jesse whips him into the turnbuckles, then charges, hitting a running knee into Allen's midsection. Jesse then delivers a couple of shoulder thrusts into the challenger's torso, driving his back into the turnbuckles. Jesse then lifts Allen onto the top turnbuckle before smirking and pointing at The Phoenix.

The Phoenix: Why that no good son of a--

Caelan Tyler: This can't be good!

Jake Steel: Yes! Cripple him Jesse!

WHAM!

Jake Steel: OW WHAT IN THE?!

The Phoenix: Say that again Jake and I'll drop you on your head.

Jesse climbs up, attempting to hook Josh Allen's head, but the challenger isn't about to give up yet, and starts delivering shots to Jesse's body. Jesse attempts to regain control up top, but a quick shove by Allen sends the champ to the mat. Allen quickly climbs off of the turnbuckles and into the ring, leveling the champ with a lariat when he pops to his feet. Jesse pops right back up but eats another clothesline for his quick recovery. Allen follows this flurry of offense up with a kick to the gut followed by an implant DDT! Allen goes for the cover:

1...

2...

No, shoulder up!

Caelan Tyler: Allen's gotten control back in this match, which has really gone back and forth.

The Phoenix: Alright Allen, now's your chance, finish this!

Jake Steel: Yes please, I want to get the choke artist away from me before he hits me again!

The Phoenix: Keep wanting to tempt fate?

Caelan Tyler: Jake's a risk taker.

Allen and Jesse are both down catching their breaths now as the referee looks over both to make sure they're okay to continue. The referee begins his count, and slowly but surely both men get to their feet, starting to exchange blows. Jesse backpedals, bumping into the ref and knocking him off his feet. With the ref not looking, Jesse immediately punts Allen right between the legs, ringing his bells and dropping him like a sack of potatoes. Jesse immediately goes to pin Josh before the referee can question what just occurred:

1...

2...

No, kickout!

Caelan Tyler: Jesse tried to take a shortcut there.

Jake Steel: FINALLY!

Caelan Tyler: Definitely didn't get the job done though.

The Phoenix: Leave it to Jesse Williams to try to retain like that. It's absolutely disgusting.

Jesse signals that he's about to go for the J-Dubz Driver when suddenly 'Mad Mann' by Sean Price starts to play throughout the area. The fans start to cheer, and Jesse looks up to the entrance ramp to see Ray Lopes heading down the ramp towards the ring.

Caelan Tyler: That's Ray Lopes! He's the OWF Caribbean Champion and the #1 contender for the OWF World Championship, but what's he doing here?

The Phoenix: Interesting...

Jake Steel: No! Let Jesse just end this farce already!

Ray gets to the bottom of the ramp, smiling at Jesse as he fumes at the interruption, unaware of the fact that Allen has taken the time to get to his feet. Allen quickly whips Jesse around, delivering an implant DDT! Pulling Jesse to the center of the ring, Allen picks him up and delivers the Touch of Reality! He quickly makes the pin:

1...

2...

3!

Zach King: Here is your winner... And NEW NLW Champion... JOSH ALLEN!

Caelan Tyler: Allen did it! He regained the belt here never lost!

The Phoenix: Finally, Jesse's reign of terror is over.

Jake Steel: Yeah, it only took someone besides you to attempt to end it.

WHAM!

Caelan Tyler: ...Uh, Jake?

The Phoenix: He's out cold now Cael.

Caelan Tyler: Oh.

The referee brings the belt into the ring, and Allen demands that the ref puts it on his waist. The ref does as asked, and as soon as it's secured on Allen dives through the ropes, throwing himself at Lopes. A fist fight immediately breaks out between the two and security quickly makes its way out, looking to break up the fisticuffs. Ray makes a 'belt' motion at his waist as the new champion scowls at him while the scene fades to black...