'Game On' by Discipline begins to play as the words 'NLW' flash across the screen, followed by images of the last Uprising. Sebastian Ashe topped Dillon Bourne to secure a spot in the six pack challenge to determine the first Destiny Champion. In Gold Rush matches, Archangel, Harvey Danger, Josh Allen and Piter Svoboda all advanced, eliminating Eliminator, TJ Arrington, Joey Vasco and Jonathan Collins respectively. The Jackrabbit came out on top of the night's first of two triple threat matches, beating Aphrodisia Jordan and The Phoenix while in our main event, Brad Jackson retained his Anarchy X Championship against Talon and Triple M! The scene cuts to ringside, with Caelan Tyler and Jake Steel!

Caelan Tyler: Hello everyone and welcome to a very special night of Uprising! I am Caelan Tyler, and the non-stop grump next to me is 'The Real Deal' Jake Steel.

Jake Steel: You'd be grumpy too if your hero got robbed of his rightful title and all you got out of the deal was back spasms.

Caelan Tyler: That was your choice to do Jake. Anyways, we have an action-packed show for you tonight, with a battle royal to win some spots in the match for the Destiny title match, the start of the second round of the Gold Rush tournament, and most importantly the NLW Championship rematch we've all been waiting for between The Ice Man and Aphrodisia Jordan!

Jake Steel: Crazy bitch is gonna get back her gold!

Caelan Tyler: The possibility of that definitely exists, although we'll see how much her head is in the game with what happened with her son. All of us here at NLW are praying for his speedy return to his mother.

Jake Steel: She's going to rip someone's balls off for that one.

Caelan Tyler: We also have former three time NLW Champion 'Venom' Xavier Lux making an appearance tonight, although management has been very tight-lipped as to what it will be about.

Jake Steel: Bah, that guy needs to stay out of NLW and stay the hell away from Triple M.

Caelan Tyler: We'll see what happens.

We're taken backstage to the long corridor of wrestler locker rooms. The camera moves down the hall listlessly before approaching one door in particular. The name plate beside the door reads Aphrodisia Jordan with and Bacon written on the cement wall beneath it in a black Sharpie. The door is tentatively opened, revealing the former NLW Champion sitting on the sofa, hunched over her legs with her hands grasping her head. The camera pans down a bit and receives a nasty look from Jordan for the effort.

Before she can say a thing, the door slams open, impacting solidly with the wall. Lockers rattled, and the camera panned over crazily, revealing Jackson in the doorway. His hands are fisted at his sides, tension in every line of his bearing as he stands there.

Brad Jackson: Where the fuck is he?

Confused, Aphrodisia glances around at her locker room before picking up Bacon. She holds him out at arm's length towards Jackson.

Aphrodisia Jordan: He can't help it. He just likes cake...

Brad Jackson: Not the pig. Vegas. That worthless sack of shit better show up tonight, or so help me God...

He kicks the door shut, and moves towards her, cracking his knuckles absently. The anger never leaves his face as he sits on the arm of the sofa, at the opposite end from where Aph is sitting.

Brad Jackson: Tonight, we need to talk game plan. We need to talk about solidarity... and the asshole hasn't even checked in at the security desk yet! With Kane out... nursing that shoulder, we're done unless we regroup.

Aphrodisia sighs, disinterest clearly written across her face. She scoops Bacon into the crook of her arm and proceeds to scratch at his belly.

Aphrodisia Jordan: [in a sing-song tone] Poor, little Jackson... can't catch a break...

Snorting in disgust, Jackson pulls out his ever present pack of smokes, and shakes one up to his lips. He lights it, and then passes it over to Aph before lighting one of his own. She leans back, still coddling Bacon and begins to smoke with her free hand.

Brad Jackson: Do you take anything seriously?

Aphrodisia Jordan: I have more important things to worry about than some fuck-stick who thinks he owns the place. Oh, and no. I don't.

Jackson sighs.

Brad Jackson: Forget him then. I'm talking you... and me. The goddamn backbone of Society. How serious are you about that?

Aphrodisia Jordan: [sarcastically] And here I thought you were going to say something romantic...

Jackson opens his mouth to reply, and finds himself at a loss for words.

Brad Jackson: I don't do romance.

He growls, taking another long drag off the cigarette as he watches the smoke curl up towards the lights.

Brad Jackson: You enjoy that, don't you?

Aphrodisia Jordan: Enjoy what? I have no idea what you're talking about...

Aph hides the smirk on her lips behind the cigarette though it's clear in her sad, blue eyes.

Brad Jackson: Making me uncomfortable. Playing with fire...

He shakes his head, leaning forward to stub out his cigarette in the ashtray. Aph leans her head back against the sofa, sighing softly in the process.

Aphrodisia Jordan: You getting flustered is about the most adorable thing I've seen in my life. Big tough man getting all goo-goo-eyed.

She chuckles faintly as the door slams open once again, revealing the absent member of Society: Danny Boy Vegas. Immediately Jackson surges to his feet, and moves to intercept his partner.

Brad Jackson: Listen asswipe... tonight you better have my back out there.

Vegas simply glares at Jackson, and says nothing, opting instead to stow his gear in one of the lockers.

Brad Jackson: You hearing me?

Aphrodisia Jordan: Maybe someone stabbed his ear drums... you know... with syringes... filled with some viscous, performing-enhancing fluid...

Vegas turns around, staring a hole into Aphrodisia. Far from intimidated, Aphrodisia stands, hooking Bacon under her arm. With a growl, Jackson moves between the two, almost as though protective of Aph.

Brad Jackson: You turn out to be a juicer, buddy... that's the least of your fucking problems. We don't play that low-down dirty shit in Society.

Danny Boy Vegas: Last I checked you weren't in charge here...

His eyes rove back and forth between Jackson and Aphrodisia.

Brad Jackson: Check again.

Aphrodisia Jordan: You know that stuff makes your balls shrink, right...?

Brad Jackson: I think they have to have already dropped for that to even matter... isn't that right, Danny Boy?

Aphrodisia Jordan: Ohh, low blow! Er... wait...

Before Vegas can react beyond the anger that discolors his face, Jackson turns and leaves, pausing only in the doorway to blow Aphrodisia a kiss. Aph smirks a bit before shooing Vegas out of the room as well.

Caelan Tyler: Well that wasn't exactly the kind of showing of solidarity Society really needs at the moment.

Jake Steel: I wonder what the beef is, DBV rules!

Caelan Tyler: Well they're going to need to get their act together for the tag match later tonight.

Caelan Tyler: What the hell?

Jake Steel: A virus? What's going on with the jumbotron?

Caelan Tyler: I have no idea... Maybe Society? Or those Punctuation guys...

Jake Steel: It's creepy, whatever it is.

Caelan Tyler: Well we're going from some confusion there with the jumbotron to our first bout of the evening, where several of the newer NLW superstars will be facing off, although one man was actually cut from this match.

Jake Steel: Who?

Caelan Tyler: Blade.

Jake Steel: ...Who?

Caelan Tyler: He is a promising young wrestler who was previous seen on the independent circuit in places like the NEWA, apparently a preliminary contract has been signed, but a final deal couldn't be done in time for Blade to attend to show.

Almost all the competitors are already in the ring when the lights begin to dim, as two white strobe lights cross one another on the entrance way. Dark purple smoke begins to rise, as the opening drum solo of 'Bring the Violence' by Disturbed hits. After two repetitions, this breaks out into the full chorus, devestating chords and screaming lyrics, as the man himself, the 'Nightmare' Jason Spire bursts throuh the smoke. He makes his way straight to the ring, ignoring both fans and officials, some of who seem concerned about the fact that this behemoth carries a steel chain stained in blood...old blood. Spire steps onto the ring apron and through the ropes. He walks straight to the middle of the ring, breathing heavily, wrapping the chain around his fist.

Zach King: The following battle royal is a Destiny Title qualifier, and the last two men left in the ring will be advancing to the Six Pack Challenge match at Turbulence! Already in the ring, Dillon Bourne, Bill Housetin, Harvey Danger, Frankie Wilde, Plague and ???! Making his way to the ring now... From Parts Unknown... Weighing in at 274 pounds... 'THE NIGHTMARE' JASON SPIRE!

Caelan Tyler: Jason Spire is one of the debuting individuals here tonight, along with Frankie Wilde already in the ring.

Jake Steel: God damn, that guy is a beast.

Caelan Tyler: No kidding, I wouldn't want to meet him in a dark alley.

Jake Steel: I don't think anyone wants to me you in a dark alley Cael... Except maybe Skye Ricardo.

Caelan Tyler: ...

The referee approaches cautiously, as Spire stares a hole through him. He requests the chain be dropped, and sense prevails. Spire drops the chain, and stands, steadily breathing, waiting for the bell that signals the freedom for the pain to be unleashed. The bell rings, and immediately Jason Spire becomes unhinged, leveling Bill Housetin with a vicious lariat. At the same time, Plague has gotten payback on his mind as he sends Dillon Bourne into the corner with a hard irish whip. He then begins to drives boots into Dillon's abdomen. ???, also looking for retribution, joins Plague, and the two continue to stomp away. Harvey, on the other hand, seems to be explaining something to the young Frankie Wilde. Frankie waits a moment, listening to what Harvey has to say, before delivering a spin kick, knocking Harvey to the mat.

Caelan Tyler: Everyone just shot out of the gates here, showing that they all really would like to be the first Destiny Champion in NLW history.

Jake Steel: Stomp that punk!

Caelan Tyler: Plague and ??? seem to be teaming up to take down Dillon Bourne, a man who holds a win over both individuals.

Jake Steel: Ashe showed them how to take that kid out last Uprising, they just need to follow through on it.

Plague and ??? both continue their assault in the corner, completely oblivious to the fact that Jason Spire is now behind them. Plague is the first to realize this turn of events, as Spire brings down his massive forearm across Plague's back. ??? turns to face Spire, who grabs him and whips him into the ropes. ??? bounces off and comes back, but is dropped like a bad habit by a shoulderblock! Wilde gives Harvey a few stomps to the head before turning his attention to Spires. Frankie bounces off the ropes, charging him for a cross body, but Spire catches him in mid-air. Spire yells out before lifting Wilde up over his head with a gorilla press, holding him for several seconds before letting go, sending the juniorweight crashing to the mat.

Caelan Tyler: What a show of power there by Spire, who has quickly taken control of this match.

Jake Steel: He's just handing out the abuse!

Caelan Tyler: Spire was a bit of an interesting signee for NLW, as he had not been someone that had been widely scouted due to his lack of recent activity in the wrestling world, but he's certainly looking eager to show that he was a good choice for a contract here in NLW.

Jake Steel: As long as the abuse doesn't stop I think I'll like this guy.

Spire taunts the fallen Wilde for a moment before he receives a clubbing blow from Bill Housetin. The two start to trade blows while elsewhere in the ring Dillon Bourne is back up, and he quickly hits an arm drag on Plague before slapping on an armbar. Harvey quickly breaks that up with a boot before turning his own attention to ???. Harvey takes it to the mystery man, throwing rights. Frankie gets to his feet, looking at Bourne before looking over at Spires, who has gotten the upper hand on Housetin. Dillon seems to have the same idea as Frankie, as both men nail Spire with a dropkick, knocking him off his feet for the first time this match.

Caelan Tyler: Quick thinking by Wilde and Bourne have allowed them to take Spire off his feet, although I doubt he'll be staying down for long.

Jake Steel: Well Caelan, what did Jason Spire say to the juniorweights?

Caelan Tyler: ...What?

Jake Steel: CRUNCH!

That's no doubt on Spire's mind as he stands up, turning his attention to the two men who knocked him off his feet. He charges them, and the two men attempt to do a double hiptoss. Spire is able to put a halt to his momentum though, and when they try to flip him up he wraps his arms around them, applying a headlock to both men! Spire quickly releases his hold on Wilde, instead opting to wrap his hand around Bourne's neck and spike him to the mat with a chokeslam! Wilde backs away from Spire, spotting Housetin trying to pull himself up using the ropes. Frankie quickly takes advantage, nailing Housetin with a dropkick that sends him flying over the top to the outside.

Zach King: Bill Housetin has been eliminated!

Caelan Tyler: The young, debuting Frankie Wilde scores the first elimination here by sending Housetin over the top. I don't think Housetin ever fully got over that injury suffered at the hands of Black Phoenix.

Jake Steel: Crazy bitches break shit, and Housetin is definitely broken.

Caelan Tyler: No doubt, although with six competitors remaining it's still an uphill battle for any of them.

Outside Housetin hangs his head as Wilde celebrates the elimination in the ring. Before Wilde can do much else though, Plague comes up behind him with a waistlock. Plague lifts Wilde up for a german suplex, but Wilde is able to flip out of it, landing on his feet. A small cheer comes from the crowd at this display of grace as Wilde quickly introduces the bottom of his boots to Plague's chin. Elsewhere ??? has turned his attention to Spire, whipping the big man into the ropes and drilling him with a spinning elbow. Harvey, deciding to be an opportunist, picks up Dillon and moves to try to eliminate him.

Caelan Tyler: Things are starting to look a bit more evenly matched here, with ??? starting to bring it to Spire.

Jake Steel: Too bad no one knows who the hell ??? is, or else this might actually mean something.

Caelan Tyler: I would hope that we eventually get to have that mystery solved, even if Jack had no idea last Uprising.

Jake Steel: Jack is a busy man, I doubt he even gave a damn about it honestly.

Caelan Tyler: Good point.

Harvey is now trying to toss Dillon over the top rope, but Bourne has his arm wrapped around the rope to try to keep himself from being eliminated. Plague has regained the advantage across the ring, drilling Wilde with a reverse DDT and then a knee drop. In the center, ??? is firing off mounted punches into Jason Spire's skull, trying to keep the big man down. Spire is able to shove ??? off, and gets to his feet, only to receive an axe kick, dropping him right back down to the mat. Harvey is finally able to get Dillon over the top rope onto the apron, but is slowed down when Dillon starts to trade punches with him. Thinking quickly, Harvey rakes at Bourne's eyes, causing him to release the rope and fall to the floor below.

Zach King: Dillon Bourne has been eliminated!

Caelan Tyler: Looks like Dillon is starting a bit of a losing streak here, first to Ashe last Uprising and now this.

Jake Steel: Eh, he's one of those overrated flippy kids anyways. They're a dime a dozen these days.

Caelan Tyler: I disagree, I think he has a lot of talent.

Jake Steel: You mean like Skye Ricardo?

Caelan Tyler: Skye had a lot of talent yes.

Jake Steel: Yeah... Talent for queering up the joint.

Plague hooks Frankie, looking for a northern lights suplex, but Frankie has other ideas as he kicks Plague in the gut before hitting an impaler DDT on him. Across the ring Spire has gotten back up and has turned his attention to poor Harvey, slamming him down with a powerslam. Spire then tries to whip Harvey into the ropes, but Harvey slides under, bailing to ringside but not being eliminated. At this point Wilde has climbed to the top rope, calling for his finisher to try to take Plague out, but ??? kicks the top rope, causing poor Wilde to fall and crotch himself on the turnbuckle. ??? then quickly climbs up to the second turnbuckle, hooking Wilde and lifting him up into a suplex position. ??? holds him for a moment before bringing him down for a brainbuster onto the top turnbuckle! The crowd boos as Wilde falls limply to the floor.

Zach King: Frankie Wilde has been eliminated!

Caelan Tyler: Absolutely vicious move there by ???, eliminating Wilde with that brainbuster into the top turnbuckle!

Jake Steel: ABUSE!

Caelan Tyler: You can say that again, damn...

If anyone in the ring was impressed by what ??? just did, no one showed it as Spire charges at him, nailing him with his Internal Damage spear. ??? falls to the mat like a sack of potatoes as Harvey slides back in with a chair in hand, slamming it across the back of Spire.

Caelan Tyler: Harvey with a chair!

Caelan Tyler: Smooth move, that's only going to just piss him off!

Harvey brings the chair back down again before turning towards Plague. Plague knows an opportunity when he sees it and he lunges at Harvey with his Vaccine superkick, knocking the chair back into Harvey's face! Harvey stumbles back, dazed by the blow as Plague hits him with another Vaccine, knocking him over the top rope to the floor.

Zach King: Harvey Danger has been eliminated!

Caelan Tyler: Trying to make use of that chair really backfired on Harvey there, and now we are down to our final three competitors. Which of these men will be the next eliminated to allow the other two to advance?

Jake Steel: Smart thing to do here would be for Plague and ??? to double team Spire and hope for the best.

Caelan Tyler: Seems like it would be the smart thing to do yes, although not sure how well they would be able to work together on that.

Jake Steel: Too bad Spire will rip them apart before they could actually formulate a strategy.

Plague and ??? both turn their attention to Spire, who is trying to stand up after the multiple chair shots. They drag him over to the ropes, trying to get him over. Spire grabs the rope, halting their momentum before delivering an elbow to both their guts. Shifting back, Spire lunges forward, lariating both and sending all three over the top to the floor.

Zach King: Jason Spire, Plague and ??? have been eliminated!

Jake Steel: ...What the heck?

Caelan Tyler: The refs don't seem to know what to do.

Sure enough, the referees look confused as to how to rule the match. 'In My Grip' begins to play, and Jack Sullivan walks onto the ramp.

Jack Sullivan: Well, since we don't know which of you three was the first to touch the floor, we'll make this simple. All three of you will be advancing to the Destiny Championship match.

All three men exchange glances as 'In My Grip' plays and Jack exits.

Caelan Tyler: Whoa! This is huge, we now have 5 of the six men determined with these three along with Vasco and Ashe!

Jake Steel: Smart money is on Spire.

Female VO: New this week in the NLW e-Shop...

The camera does a transition fade to a plain locker room, with the recognizable features of the reigning Legacy champion facing the camera.

The Phoenix: Have you ever had one of those days, where society in general--or even Society in particular--seems to try to run you down? Ever wish you could get back at them without retribution? Well, now you can. This week's newest item on NLW.com/shop is...

Phoenix steps to the side, to reveal an inflatable punching doll. Featured prominently on the doll is an uncanny likeness of Danny Boy Vegas.

The Phoenix: That's right. Now when society beats you down, you can beat Society back.

Phoenix then grabs a baseball bat, smirks, and whacks the Vegas look-alike right between the eyes with a swing that would make Prince Fielder proud. The doll rolls about for a moment and then stands itself back up, looking none the worse for wear.

The Phoenix: These Society punching dolls have been tested to withstand just about anything you can throw it at. They'll take a licking and come back for more because, just like their real-life counterparts, they are too damn stupid to know when to quit. Not to mention that it's a good cardio workout and a stress reliever, as well. Trust me, if you get one of these, you'll thank yourself later.

Phoenix walks away, giving the doll another hard right hand shot. As the doll rights itself, a voice-over begins as the camera slowly fades to black.

Female VO: Vincent Kane, Brad Jackson, and Shane Donovan models also available. Aphrodisia Jordan model pending. Not for use around sharpened objects. Please use responsibly.

Caelan Tyler: Well, my good friend Josh Allen is backstage, and I hear Charisma is going to get a quick interview.

Jake Steel: Josh sure got a big surprise this past week when this hot chick -- what's her name, Ramona? -- asked him to marry her! Marry, Caelan! That's like getting paid to go to the circus, or something!

Caelan Tyler: I know, Josh hasn't had the best of luck with women, but it'll be interesting to see if he gave her an answer. Hopefully Charisma will ask about that.

Backstage, Charisma Finch trails Josh and Ramona. Josh continually tries to ignore Charisma, instead trying to whisper to Ramona.

Josh Allen: I'm just saying, Randall said he'd meet us here. Something's up, but I don't know what it is. I don't have time to worry about him though. He got himself into this, and...

Ramona turns her head over her shoulder, taking a quick look at Charisma, who runs behind with microphone in hand. Charisma's determination finally gets the best of him. Josh stops and whips around, bringing Charisma right up to his face. She steps back, surprised, and composes herself.

Charisma Finch: Josh, I just have a few questions, if--

Josh holds up his index finger and presses it over Charisma's lips.

Josh Allen: Let me do the talking. I don't have time for useless questions that mean nothing in the overall picture of things. Charisma, after being back about a month, I still walk in and find out that people here are just as warped as they were when I left. You've got these fucking 'allegiances' running around like they own the place, and no one seems to have the ability to stop it. We have Society, where each member seems to have a stick shoved up their ass... and I don't know if you've noticed, but they seem to enjoy that. Then we have a bunch of whack jobs using punctuation to make their point, and I don't know if you noticed, but I caught an Explicit Content logo last week.

Charisma tries to speak and make a point, but Josh shrugs her off again.

Josh Allen: Ah ah, don't speak. Tonight could be a pivotal night in NLW. The next few months are going to define the entire year here, and people are so caught up in their fake-ass friendships that they're dropping the ball on the overall picture. There are no friends here, Charisma. I just don't see it. I see people looking out for themselves, but that's all I see. It's all this big, f'ing game of cat and mouse... and you people don't get it. Those people surrounding the ring, cheering and booing and chugging beers? They don't get it, either. Tonight, I'm stepping into a ring with three other people: On one side, I'll have Kevin Heat, my so-called tag partner. On the other, we have Danny Boy and Brad Jackson.

Josh pauses and looks to Ramona, then back at Charisma.

Josh Allen: You know what? Screw them. Screw these pansy ass nothings. They have too much press as it is. But let me say this: After we take out this tag team tonight, I'll be back to again etch my name in the Gold Rush Tournament. Now, I'm done. I'm done talking.

Josh shoves Charisma away and turns, walking down the hall with Ramona. Charisma grunts and yells after him.

Charisma Finch: But the fans want to know if you two are getting married! Please, please tell us...

Josh Allen: What 'fans?' Piss off.

Caelan Tyler: Charisma struck a nerve, I guess. I suppose Josh has other things on his mind, like his match tonight with a returning Kevin Heat against two of NLW's bigger names. He came back last week and got a clean win over Joey Vasco, but can he keep that success alive tonight when he's only one of four participants in the match?

Jake Steel: I've been thinking... if he doesn't marry Ramona, you think she'd go out with me?

Caelan Tyler: I think she'd snap your neck in two pieces before the appetizers arrived.

Caelan Tyler: We're shifting from backstage drama to the Gold Rush tournament here, with Piter Svoboda about to take on the Jackrabbit to see who advances to the tournament quarterfinals.

Jake Steel: Joy.

The house lights cut out. Four beats on the ride, and the opening riff of 'Cheat' kicks in.

I get violent when I'm fucked up
I get silent when I'm drugged up
I want excitement, if I don't get none I go wild

The curtain jerks aside and Piter Svoboda slinks through. He's decked out in faded cutoff cargo shorts of indeterminate color belted with his trademark knotted bike chain, a faded black MVW T-shirt, and black steel toe Redwings. His hair is its typical unnatural blonde and appears to be freshly spiked.

I don't know what the fuck to do about it
If you play the game you get nothing out of it
You find out for yourself by trying to be good

Piter stays at the top of the ramp for a moment to do a standing backflip, showcasing his agility, and then a moment longer to soak in his mixed crowd reaction. The majority of the arena is silent, but scattered pockets of fans boo while the occasional attempt to start an 'M-V-DUB' chant is heard.

You better cheat, cheat
No reason to play fair
Cheat, cheat
You can get anywhere
Cheat, cheat
And you can win

Svoboda sprints down to the ring, largely ignored by the fans, and slides under the bottom rope, ready to compete.

Zach King: This is a Gold Rush Tournament Second Round match, scheduled for one fall! Introducing first, already in the ring... from Boston, Massachusetts... Weighing in at 185 pounds... PITER SVOBODA!

Caelan Tyler: Piter went through Jonathan Collins to make it to this match. He's one of Jack Sullivan's 'ringers' in this tournament; some would label him the favorite in this match.

Jake Steel: It won't mean anything if he loses to the resident nutcase, Caelan!

The arena lights dim, and hysterical laughter sounds through the arena. 'Out Of My Head' by Puddle Of Mudd begins to play, as smoke fills the entrance-ramp and blue strobe lights scan the arena. Onto the ramp steps The Jackrabbit. He is wearing one of his trademark 'Jackrabbit' T-Shirts, and his plaid, wrestling shorts, with black elbow pads and boots. The Jackrabbit begins to walk down the ramp as the music picks up, and he then runs and slides into the ring as blue strobe lights scan the arena. He climbs the nearest turnbuckle, and laughs out loud to himself, raising both arms and wriggling the index fingers on each (doing his pose) as the fans cheer him. The Jackrabbit then jumps back down, and paces the ring.


Zach King: And his opponent, from parts unknown... Weighing in at 256 Pounds... he is one-half of the NLW Tag Team Champions...THE JACKRABBIT!

Caelan Tyler: The Jackrabbit was impressive last show, defeating former NLW Champion Aphrodisia Jordan and the reigning Legacy Champion, The Phoenix, in a triple-threat match. This could be an upset in the making.

Jake Steel: Beating The Phoenix means nothing. Hell, your mom could beat him!

Caelan Tyler: ...

The bell sounds, and both wrestlers circle. Collar-and-elbow tie-up to start, and Jackrabbit forces Piter into the corner. Ref steps in and asks for a clean break, and gets it as 'Rabbit skips merrily away. Svoboda slowly moves out of the corner, looking at his opponent cautiously. As they close in, Svoboda ducks another tie-up attempt and hits a drop toe hold on 'Rabbit, quickly moving into a side headlock on the Unorthodox One.

Caelan Tyler: Piter's got the speed advantage in this contest, and he's quick to utilize it in this match.

Jake Steel: Is that the best you have, Caelan?

Caelan Tyler: Are we really going to go through this again?

Jackrabbit gets back to his feet, backing into the ropes and shoving Piter away. Off the rebound, a shoulder block sends the smaller Svoboda down. 'Rabbit comes off the side ropes, hops over Piter, ducks a leapfrog on the return, but eats a textbook dropkick from Piter on the second rebound to send him down. Svoboda is quick to scramble into the cover, only to get a long one count out of it. Piter gets back to his feet, waiting for Jackrabbit, and as the Tag champ charges in, Piter hits an arm drag, then a second as 'Rabbit stands up, and then one more, this one sending Jackrabbit sliding under to bottom rope to stand on the outside.

Caelan Tyler: Svoboda showing his speed off here. Will be able to keep the advantage?

Jake Steel: The better question is will he be able to keep me awake?

Piter looks like he wants to fly, but this early in the match, discretion gets the better of him as he waits for Jackrabbit to get back in the ring. 'Rabbit finally does at the count of three, staring at Svoboda with a muted smile on his face. The tie-up finally goes through this time, as Piter takes control with a side headlock. 'Rabbit slips out behind with a hammerlock, and follows with several forearms to the back of the head, all the while keeping the hammerlock applied. Then, Jackrabbit spins Piter around, and delivers a scoop slam. A kick to the spine follows this, as Piter rolls away, looking for a reprieve.

Caelan Tyler: Hard impact on that kick by The Jackrabbit, and that quickly he has control.

Jake Steel: Please, God, no wedgies....

Jackrabbit follows Piter to the corner, laying into Piter with right hands. 'Rabbit then grabs Piter and whips him into the corner, charging after him. Piter, however, leaps onto the second turnbuckle and jumps off, looking for a crossbody block. 'Rabbit rolls under it, and Piter catches nothing but mat as 'Rabbit jumps up and down, laughing at his good fortune.

Caelan Tyler: The Jackrabbit looking a bit more...aware in the ring compared to some weeks we've seen him.

Jake Steel: He still needs to be locked away, Caelan! The man is nuts!

The Jackrabbit is quick to press his advantage, moving Svoboda into a sitting position and wrenching in a rear chinlock, driving his knee into the back of Piter to add to the pain. After a minute or so in this hold, Piter manages to arrange himself to get a foot under the bottom rope, forcing the break. 'Rabbit finally does, after trying to mess up Piter's spiked hair and not doing a good job of it.

Caelan Tyler: Seems like The Jackrabbit is focusing on the back of his opponent. This is sound strategy, Jake.

Jake Steel: This is almost as bad as watching The Phoenix wrestle. Boring!

Piter finally gets back to his feet, but Jackrabbit is waiting for him with a solid right hand. There's another whip into the ropes, which leads into a drop toe hold. However, 'Rabbit keeps hold of the leg and as he stands, positions his leg in between Piter's and locks in what appears to be a variant of a Sharpshooter submission.

Caelan Tyler: Modified Sharpshooter by The Jackrabbit; he apparently calls it 'Hysteria.'

Jake Steel: What kind of a name is that? Someone needs to teach these people how to name moves!

The ref is down on the mat, asking Svoboda if he wants to give it up. Piter's resounding 'No!' echoes throughout the arena as he tries to crawl towards the ropes. Jackrabbit continues to wrench at the hold, working over the back of Piter as the 'Undercard Hero' tries to figure a way out of the move. As he nears the ropes, though, 'Rabbit drops the hold and gets to his feet, pulling Piter up soon after. A scoop slam later, the Unorthodox One goes between the ropes and heads for a turnbuckle, eyeing up Svoboda. As Piter stands and turns towards 'Rabbit, he leaps and scores with a missile dropkick! Jackrabbit moves into the cover, covering both legs, but only gets a two as Piter gets the left shoulder up.

Caelan Tyler: Jackrabbit nearly caught Piter sleeping there after that high-impact maneuver.

Jake Steel: At least it's not some boring submission hold....

Undaunted, Jackrabbit pulls Piter to his feet again, delivers a savage kick to the gut and hits an Implant DDT. Piter is face-down, not moving as 'Rabbit decides for another high-risk move instead of going for the pin. To the top 'Rabbit goes, doing his pose for the fans before trying a forward-roll senton from the top. However, Piter is able to roll out of the way, and 'Rabbit catches nothing but the mat on that attempted move!

Caelan Tyler: And that might be the break Piter needed in order to get back into the match!

Jake Steel: Good, that alone was almost worth the last five minutes of crap I had to sit through!

The ref begins his count, reaching six before Piter uses the ropes to get to his feet. 'Rabbit is up soon afterwards, and as the Unorthodox one looks for a right hand, Piter blocks and promptly drills 'Rabbit with a jawbreaker. That seems to bring some life back to Piter as he stands, looking to press the offense. Several kicks to the ribs sends 'Rabbit staggering back into the corner. Grabbing the arm, Piter sends Jackrabbit across the ring, and follows him in, a somersault kick off the chest of 'Rabbit the end result. 'Rabbit falls to the mat and Svoboda promptly goes for a cover, only getting two as Jackrabbit was able to drape a boot over the bottom rope.

Caelan Tyler: Svoboda tried to catch The Jackrabbit off-guard, but good ring awareness by one-half of the Tag Champions to get a foot on the rope.

Jake Steel: A cheap method of getting out of it! A TRUE champion would have kicked out!

Undaunted, Piter proceeds to repeatedly kick the face of Jackrabbit despite the admonishment from the referee, finally relenting as the ref threatens to disqualify him via five-count. Shrugging, Piter goes to stand next to the ropes, and as Jackrabbit shakily gets to his feet, Piter leaps onto the middle rope and comes off, a springboard bulldog planting 'Rabbit in the dead center of the ring. Svoboda hooks the far leg for the cover:

1

2

Thre-no! Jackrabbit gets the shoulder up at two and three-quarters.

Jake Steel: Dammit, I hoped that would end this match and we could go to something better!

Caelan Tyler: Not yet, Jake. The Jackrabbit still has some fight in him as Piter tries to figure out what he needs to do to end it.

Piter senses that this match is almost over. One more good high-impact move could put his opponent away here. Lifting Jackrabbit to his feet, he backs him into a corner and sits him on the top rope. Svoboda climbs up soon after, leaps, and one release frankensteiner later, Piter again goes for a cover.

1

2

Three-no! At the last possible moment, 'Rabbit pops the left shoulder up! Half the crowd cheers, thinking it was a three, but the remainder of the crowd tries to helpfully shout 'TWO!'

Caelan Tyler: Oh, I thought Piter had him there! That was too close!

Jake Steel: Yes, you idiots, we know that was two. You don't have to tell us.

A brief look of anger crosses Piter's face. What else does he have to do to put this guy away? Pulling 'Rabbit closer to the corner, Piter climbs the ropes, looking to end the match right here. With a leap, Piter looks for the Impressive Display of Agility.
However, Jackrabbit has moved, and Piter lands knees-first on the mat!

Caelan Tyler: Piter was looking for the Imploding 450 Knee Drop and missed! Is that going to be the deciding factor?

Jake Steel: Damn...that looked like it hurt.

The ref once again starts his count, and it's Jackrabbit who is up first at the count of five. He still looks a bit out of it as he lifts Svoboda to his feet, kicks him in the gut, and delivers a textbook piledriver. He gets back to his feet, wiggling his fingers as the fans start cheering. Piter is slow to get up, but once he finally does he is quick to be grabbed by Jackrabbit, and set up into position for the finisher. There is no escape this time, and Piter is made another victim of the Last Laugh. 'Rabbit falls into the cover, laughing maniacally.

1

2

3!

'Out of My Head' hits the speakers as 'Rabbit gets to his feet, a smile crossing his face.

Zach King: Here is your winner... And advancing to the Gold Rush Quarterfinals... THE JACKRABBIT!

Caelan Tyler: And the Unorthodox One advances!

Jake Steel: Ugh, so we're going to get more of him? Damnit all!

Caelan Tyler: ...Wait a second, what is Jin Royale doing out here?

Sure enough, Jin Royale is on the entrance ramp, looking down at the ring. Jin motions to the back, and both Jason Stone and Talon make their way to the ring. Jin slides into the ring, motioning for a mic - Talon takes a place beside Jackrabbit, as they both flank him. Jason Stone moves directly behind his tag team partner, as Jin begins to speak.

Jin Royale: I know...a lot of you didn't expect that, huh?

The crowd pops.

Jin Royale: But maybe...maybe you should've.

Jin begins to pace, addressing the crowd.

Jin Royale: I have a reason, though. NLW has lost its purpose. Hear me out here for a second.

Jin moves across the ring to lean on the ropes, casually looking down at the fans.

Jin Royale: Now it's just people running around trying to look important, people running around trying to get screentime without actually...wrestling. Remember that? Wrestling? Yeah, I kinda liked it too.

The fans pop! Fusion seems more concerned about circling Jin, though for different reasons since Jackrabbit looks elated at SOMETHING, and Talon looks borderline pissed.

Jin Royale: Now it's just people running around trying to look important, people running around trying to get screentime without actually...wrestling. NLW has forgotten that it is not only a wrestling organization, not only one of the best wrestling organizations in the world, but it's also one of the best wrestling organizations in the world that can get people to plunk down $10 because they want to be goddamned entertained.

Jin adjusts his sunglasses, looking out seriously at the crowd, which is rare.

Jin Royale: But apparently in NLW, entertainment is no longer the norm - entertainment ITSELF is explicit content. Having a good time is explicit content - the only thing that matters to people is how 'badazz' you look. That's why I - we here - are the Explicit Content of NLW. We ARE what you came to see - we ARE everything that wrestling - and goddamnit, everything that entertainment - stands for. Not running around going, 'Oooh, I'm a rogue faction because we wear leather and hate the Man!' or 'Ooooh, I'm a president that doesn't play by the rules~'

Almost as if on cue, 'In My Grip' hits, and Jack Sullivan makes his way to the ring, the fans booing as the owner slides under the bottom rope.

Jack Sullivan: What is this Jin?

The fans continue to boo the owner.

Jin Royale: What's what?

Jack Sullivan: Explicit Content? Explicit Content is dead and buried Jin. I know, I helped kill it!

Boos.

Jin Royale: Hold up a--

Jack Sullivan: No, you need to shut up and listen for once in your damn life! You are NOT what NLW is about. NLW is about progress, it's about the future of this business. When this company was opened by Eriq Mobely I wrestled in the first match and in its last. I was its flagbearer, its champion.

Jin Royale: Nice Hist--

Jack makes a 'kill' motion, and all of a sudden Jin's mic goes dead, causing the always constant boos to grow louder.

Jack Sullivan: As I was saying, NLW is about the future. You, Jin, you're the past. High Impact is the past. Fusion is the past. Explicit Content is the past. Now, I want you four to get out of my ring, people who mean a damn need to use it.

The four members of the newly-reformed Explicit Content exchange glances before they all shrug and Jin decks Jack, staggering him. Jin continues unloading rights before hitting the Fade to Black on Jack, causing the fans to cheer loudly. Jin then grabs Jack's now discarded mic.

Jin Royale: Now THAT is entertainment!

Jin drops the mic, and the four members of Explicit Content exit to the cheers of the fans.

Caelan Tyler: Explicit Content is back!

Jake Steel: Ugh... Just when I thought this night couldn't get any worse...

Blackness takes over the screen for but a moment before it begins to lighten. The scene is nothing more than the back of a couch with a man's head resting against the back of it. A television skews any details of the man sitting there, though the sounds that begin to emit are certainly tell-tale.

Brad Jackson: [Voice-Over] Every day, every hour, every minute, all across North America... someone is feeling an unfulfilled urge...

The man on the screen is suddenly paused. Aphrodisia Jordan steps into frame, super-imposed on the deviant, dressed in a pin-stripe suit. Her hands are folded in front of her and there is a sullen expression on her face.

Aphrodisia Jordan: The debate is as old as mankind. Do you: A, suffer through the pure frustration brought on by natural, human urges and hormones? B, make friends with a bottle of lotion and a box of Kleenex? Or C, following the desire of your genitals and fuck everything that moves?

Brad Jackson: It's a tough subject, and it's tearing society apart.

Jackson steps into frame, dressed in his usual black t-shirt and black jeans. He looks cool and composed as he steps up beside Aphrodisia.

Brad Jackson: Age old questions, prudish conventions, and lies told to you as a teen. Play with it, and it'll fall off. You'll grow hair on your hands.

Staring into the camera, he grips his own crotch, and then holds up his hands.

Brad Jackson: See? Our entire society is founded on lies and misconceptions....

Aphrodisia Jordan: God knows I'd be blind if those old wives' tales were true.

Aphrodisia smiles brightly after licking her lips.

Aphrodisia Jordan: And that's why we're here today to teach all of you prudes, and teases, and religious fanatics... that orgasms are awesome.

Jackson opens his mouth to deliver his lines, and instead coughs quickly, covering a laugh.

Brad Jackson: They most certainly are.

The image on the screen shifts, flashing to high quality shots of bodies grinding, jism flying as porn star after porn star get their freak on in a dizzying montage. The image cuts back to Aph and Jackson. Aph is smirking with a faint blush in her cheeks. She fans herself faintly.

Aphrodisia Jordan: Someone got into my stash, I see...

She casts an accusing eye at Jackson, still grinning like a cat. He smirks back, stuffing his hands into his pockets.

Brad Jackson: Guilty as charged. You have excellent taste... almost need a cigarette after that little show. Heh, orgasms. Nature's answer to chocolate, without all the calories.

Aphrodisia Jordan: So, world... in conclusion, as a representative of Society and an advocate for good, hard fuckings... get your bone on! Go out, get laid... but for the love of Christ, wear a condom. I'm not totally unethical.

Aph licks her lips again before reaching into her pocket. She withdraws a small, foiled square, which is clearly a condom. Her eyes cast up to Jackson with a soft chuckle.

Aphrodisia Jordan: Right, Jackson...?

He takes it from her hand, slipping it into his pocket.

Brad Jackson: Abso-fucking-lutely, love.

Aphrodisia Jordan: I'm Aph Jordan...

Brad Jackson: And I'm Brad Jackson.

Aphrodisia Jordan: And we encourage sex.

Brad Jackson: Lots of sex.

Aphrodisia Jordan: With a condom. Or two. Because God knows we don't need more little brats running around that take after people like Kevin Heat and Harvey Wallbanger. One is more than enough, thank you very much. Oh... and, y'know... AIDs and stuff... keep that in mind. You'll thank us later.

That same smirk is shared between the two before Aph pushes Jackson off-camera. Before they fade from view, Jackson smacks Aph on the ass, the movement barely caught on film. The scene that was behind them resumes as the man, who is now clearly masturbating, 'finishes the job'.

Caelan Tyler: ...Well um, I hope that was taped prior to the disappearance, otherwise I've just lost a lot of respect for Aphrodisia's priorities.

Jake Steel: Bow-chica-wow-wow!

We go backstage, where The Phoenix is walking towards his locker room. His duffel bag is slung over a shoulder, and he looks a bit more focused this week.

The Phoenix: Danny, Danny, Danny. Did you really think after last Uprising that I was just going to let you off the hook for blindsiding me with a steel chair? You've got less brains than I gave you credit for, then.

He stops at his locker room long enough to toss his bag onto the chair inside, and resumes walking.

The Phoenix: Mark my words, Vegas. Tonight, we're going to find out how much you like wearing a steel chair necklace. I don't care if it's after your match, before it, or even during it. Mark my words, and remember them well, Vegas. I will see you beaten down by the end of the night. Bank on it.

Caelan Tyler: Looks like The Phoenix plans on getting some payback for DBV's antics over the past few shows.

Jake Steel: Ugh, can't DBV just crush him already and let us be done with it?

Caelan Tyler: This will be one of the more interesting matches on the card, with the ruthless aggression of Black Phoenix clashing with the technical expertise of Jason Stone.

Jake Steel: She's going to tear him a new one.

Caelan Tyler: I think it's a little premature to say she'll win Jake, match hasn't even started yet.

Jake Steel: Who said anything about winning? She's just going to tear him a new one.

Zach King: The following Gold Rush tournament match is scheduled for one fall! Making her way to the ring, fighting out of New York City, NY... weighing in at 205 pounds...

The lights go out as the sound of violins echo through the arena, the 'What it's like to burn' by Finch hammering through the PA.

She buuuuuuuuuuuuurns

Zach King: THE BLACK PHOENIX!

Today's on fire
The sky is bleeding above me, and I am blistered
I walk these lines of blasphemy, every day
And still:

The lights begin to strobe as images of the carnage left in the wake of the Phoenix flashes on the big screen:
The Black Phoenix setting Ali Khadafi on fire, Her quickly moving out of the way as half the ceiling falls when she was just moments before in the infamous ladder match vs The Wrestling God and Vanity, wiping Medea Jane from OWF's blood over her chest. Sunset power bombing Twilight to the floor. Flicking her blood at the crowd.

Like a bad star, I'm falling faster down to her
She's the only one who knows, what it is to burn
So tell me
What's the price to pay for glory?

The Black Phoenix appears underneath a spotlight on the turnbuckle as flame explode from the other turnbuckles, the mask looking even more ghoulish as it reflect the light of the fire. She throws her hands in the air as the light come back on with a thunder of pyro on the stage.

Today is fire, and she burns
Today is fire, and she burns
She burns
She burns
She burns

The lights fade back up and the music fades as The Black Phoenix drops from the turnbuckle, she rips off her mask and awaits the battle ahead.

Caelan Tyler: Black Phoenix advanced to this match by defeating Bill Housetin in the first round of the tournament in what was a very brutal match.

Jake Steel: Defeated him? She brutalized him!

Caelan Tyler: She was showing some of that vicious streak that she's famous for, something that hadn't always been on display as of late.

***LORD PLEASE HAVE SYMPATHY, AND FORGIVE MY COOL YOUNG HISTORY***

The crowd cheers as 'The Coolest' hits, and Jason Stone makes his way down the entrance ramp, wearing one of his lime green 'I WANT TO BREAK YOUR ARM' t-shirts, as well as black pants that have 'Explicit Content' written down the sides. He enters the ring, showboating a bit for his fans while waiting for the match to start.

Zach King: And her opponent, from Calgary, Alberta, Canada... Weighing in at 240 pounds... JASON STONE!

Caelan Tyler: This is Jason Stone's first 'real' match since his return to NLW, outside of that sparring session with his long-time tag partner Jin Royale. He earned the bye into the second round of the tournament by being a former NLW Juniorweight champion.

Jake Steel: Yeah, for like 2 weeks till he forfeited it.

Caelan Tyler: Hey, a former champ is a former champ.

The bell sounds and Stone and Black Phoenix waste no time lunging at each other and locking up. After a few seconds of being luck up Jason Stone scores first with an arm drag take down with Black Phoenix quickly getting up to one knee. Jason Stone is somewhat hunched down ready for Black Phoenix to attempt again. Black Phoenix stands back up and approaches Jason Stone and they lock up again. Jason Stone scores once again with an arm drag take down and once more Black Phoenix is up on one knee as she pounds the mat with her fist in very early frustration. Jason Stone does not come in at her contempt to keep the match at the pace it is going. Black Phoenix gets up and they circle around each other again and lock up for a third time. This time Black Phoenix strikes first turning it into a side headlock and attempting to wrench it in. Jason Stone slowly backs into the ropes as Black Phoenix continues to wrench it in and is able to throw Black Phoenix off of it and into the ropes. Jason Stone drops down as Black Phoenix jumps over him... he stands up and hits a third arm drag take down but this time holds on and puts Black Phoenix into an arm bar as she slaps the mat aggravated that she's fallen for the same move three times.

Caelan Tyler: BP's aggression is getting the better of her here as Jason Stone keeps catching her with those arm drags.

Jake Steel: It's not smart to provoke her like that, she's likely to slap him silly when she gets her hands on him.

Caelan Tyler: Quite likely, but Jason Stone is a former World champion, I think he can handle this.

Jake Steel: I dunno, I can't think of anything that would prep you for a crazy bitch like this.

Caelan Tyler: Ice Skating Mules.

Jake Steel: Touché.

Jason Stone doesn't have the arm bar in that deep though and Black Phoenix is able to roll over onto her feet and stand up but her arm is still trapped. With her free arm she is able to hit some elbows into the side of Stone's making him finally break the hold. She turns around and goes to palm him the face but Stone steps the side grabs her arm and flips her over his shoulder and again puts her back into the arm bar controlling the pace of the match and working on the arm. Black Phoenix doesn't slap the mat this time but she's definitely not liking how things are going. She again rolls over and stands up on her feet once again repeating a process that previously failed. She again hits elbows into the side of his face and she runs into the ropes with Jason Stone dropping down again. Jason Stone is up and he attempts a hip toss but Black Phoenix lands on her feet and tries to reverse the hip toss but isn't able to do it as Jason Stone spins around holding on to Black Phoenix and this time successfully hits the hip toss taking her down. Black Phoenix is on her feet and she goes for an elbow smash but he blocks it grabs her arm and twists it bring her down to a knee. She attempts to get up so he jerks the arm sending her back down. She's in pain as he pulls up on the arm trying to put pressure on it. She attempts to stand back up so Stone hits a sharp elbow into the arm sending her back onto her knees again. Jason Stone has the match totally in his control as Black Phoenix purposely falls to her back. Black Phoenix kips onto her feet only for Jason Stone to jerk hard on her arm and send her back down. She kips up a second time and this time is able to reverse the arm twist and get Stone in it.

Caelan Tyler: Nice reversal by Black Phoenix here, although it took a few attempts.

Jake Steel: OH SHI! Abort mission Stoner, ABORT MISSION!

It doesn't last long though as Jason Stone reverses and twists her arm and goes for a short arm clothesline but she ducks and runs into the ropes. She charges into Jason Stone but he shoulder tackles her down. This time Stone runs into the rope. Black Phoenix leaps over him as he ducks down. Black Phoenix goes for a dropkick but Jason Stone holds onto the ropes and she hits nothing but air and crashes down. Jason Stone takes a second to think as Black Phoenix picks herself back up. Jason Stone approaches her and as she turns around he grabs her arm and twists it in a way it ends up above his shoulder and he lifts up on the arm and brings it down smashing it over his shoulder as Black Phoenix drops down holding her arm. Jason Stone kicks her in the back causing her to fall flat on her stomach. He extends the arm out and presses one foot down on the hand holding the arm out and then uses the other leg to stomp down on the arm as hard as he can. Black Phoenix tries to push herself up but to no avail with her arm trapped under the leg. Jason Stone lifts the leg up and stomps on the arm again! This time he lets go allowing Black Phoenix to roll over hold her arm. Jason Stone drops down for the cover.

One...

Two...

Kick out...

Caelan Tyler: Stoner has been able to keep Black Phoenix largely neutralized here with his technical prowess.

Jake Steel: I stand by my calls for aborting this mission. Just take your pride and your body up the ramp and get yourself counted up before she breaks things you can't get fixed.

Caelan Tyler: Jason Stone is no quitter, no way he's walking out of a match like this.

Jake Steel: If he was smart he would.

This match has been all Jason Stone so far as he picks Black Phoenix back up and hammerlocks her arm as he lifts her for a body slam... slamming her down on her already injured arm. He goes for another covering... pushing down hard on the shoulder connected to the injured arm...

One...

Two...

She gets her other shoulder up!

Caelan Tyler: Another pin attempt here, although this one also comes up short for the former NLW Juniorweight champion.

Jake Steel: You know, I never understood why they even counted that. I mean, the guy has put on like 20 pounds since then, doesn't that kind of invalidate that?

Caelan Tyler: A former champ is a former champ, regardless of weight class Jake.

Jason Stone is on both of his knees looking down at Black Phoenix but he doesn't take too long. He grabs her by the hair and pulls her up. He goes to Irish whip her into the ropes but she is somehow able to reverse it. He comes off the ropes and knocks her down with a shoulder tackle. He bounces off the ropes again and she rolls over and stays down forcing him to jump over her. She's up on her feet and she leap frogs as Jason Stone ducks down to go under her. He bounces off the ropes again and Black Phoenix hits a spinning heel kick that connects plush as Jason Stone goes down. Black Phoenix lands jarring her injured arm causing her to roll around grasping it as Jason Stone also turns over holding his face. It seems Black Phoenix got him right on the nose. Black Phoenix rolled near the rope and with her good arm begins to pull her self up. She takes a quick glance over to see how Stone is doing and notices he's on his stomach pushing himself up. She spots a trickle of blood and her eyes go wide open. Black Phoenix is up and she walks over to Jason Stone who is now on all fours. She rises her left leg as high as it will go and sends it crashing down on the back of his head smashing his nose into the mat. Jason Stone is flopping around like a fish groaning as he rolls to the outside. He's on one knee on the outside holding the apron with one hand and covering his nose with the other as it's obvious a good stream of blood is now coming from it.

Caelan Tyler: Looks like that vicious spinning heel kick, along with introducing Stoner's face to the mat, has busted open the former champ.

Jake Steel: The shark's smelled the blood in the water, it's only a matter of time now...

Jason Stone with his one hand on the apron pushes himself up and turns around with bad timing as Black Phoenix comes off with a baseball slide right into his face that sends him backwards smashing into the guardrail. That breaks the count the Ref was administering and as Black Phoenix stands up he begins a new count.

One...

Two...

Three...

Four...

Black Phoenix breaks the count by going outside upon seeing Jason Stone standing up. He's still almost hunched over though so she hits a hard kick in the chest to force him to stand straight up and then hits a high kick right in the face causing him to flip backwards over the guardrail and land on the floor in front of the fans. Black Phoenix rolls back into the ring and screams at the ref to continue the count.

Caelan Tyler: Black Phoenix has been on a tear since bloodying Jason's nose, and now she's trying to get him counted out.

Jake Steel: He should just lay out on the floor till it's over, she's granting him a reprieve from pain!

One...

Two...

Three...

Jason Stone has pulled himself up.

Four...

Five...

Six...

He's flipped over the guardrail

Seven...

Eight...

He's crawled up to the apron

Nine...

Te...

Jason Stone rolls into the ring at the last second as the crowd applauds his determination. However he's met by Black Phoenix who grabs him by his leg and drags him to the center of the ring.

Caelan Tyler: Stone showing some resilience by beating the ten count back into the ring.

Jake Steel: More like showing some stupidity! He should've stayed down when he had the chance, now she's going to kill him!

Black Phoenix mounts him and begins her patent elbow attacks, dropping elbows down on him. However, she's only using one arm thanks to Jason Stone's previous attacks. She hits several before changing positions and going for the cover...

One...

Two...

SHOULDER UP!

The camera gets a close on Jason Stone's face showing blood still trickling from it. His nose is obviously broken. It's about to get worse as Black Phoenix grabs his hand and forces him to flip over. The crowd stirs knowing what was coming. She grabs his hand and forces him up and puts her foot on the back of his head and CURB STOMPS HIM DOWN! Jason Stone again wiggles around like a fish out of water as he turns around holding his nose and Black Phoenix knows she has the match won!!!

One...

Two...

SHOULDER UP AGAIN!

Caelan Tyler: Jason Stone just won't die here! Frustration must really be sinking in now for Black Phoenix!

Jake Steel: I hope he had his life insurance premiums paid up for his family's sake. All I'm saying.

The Crowd is getting behind Jason Stone with chants of 'Stoner, Stoner, Stoner, Stoner' as Black Phoenix cannot put him away. Black Phoenix forces him on his feet again. Blood dripping down on the mat as he's lift up. She grabs him by the hand and Irish whips him into the corner. She comes in to the corner with him and hits a few high kicks right in the face causing him to drop down in a sitting position. Black Phoenix is not satisfied with this though and she grabs him by his ears and forces him to stand once more. She Irish whips him into the other corner now. After she has done that she prepares herself for the coup de grace. The Crowd knows what is coming and stands up in both worry and anticipation...

Caelan Tyler: Black Phoenix is looking to end this with her Yakuza kick!

Caelan Tyler: Nice knowing you Stoner!

Black Phoenix charges and goes for the Yakuza kick but Jason Stone moves out of the way and Black Phoenix's leg hits the top of the top turnbuckle! Black Phoenix's face says it all pain and anger as she's able to get her leg free and turns around as the bloodied nosed Jason Stone grabs her and lifts her for a body sla... no he sets her on his shoulder. He turns around takes a few steps and drops her down with a shoulder breaker! She falls on her back her arm in bad shape as he drops down on her.. Pressing down on the bad arm with one hand and hooking the leg with the other...

One...

Two...

SHOULDER UP!!!

Caelan Tyler: Somehow Stoner was able to avoid the Yakuza kick and get back in control here!

Jake Steel: Dumb luck I'd say.

Caelan Tyler: He's not lucky, he's good.

Jake Steel: Regardless he's still dumb.

Jason Stone stands up on his feet picking up Black Phoenix with him... He hammerlocks her bad arm behind her back and goes to body slam her again but somehow she manages to slip behind him. He turns around and Black Phoenix with the KAWADA KICK... NO Jason Stone managed to block it! Black Phoenix is stunned by this as he kicks her in the stomach hunching her over... HE HITS THE STONE CRUSHER! CRUSHING HER BAD ARM! He goes for the cover hooking the leg and pushing down on the bad arm with the blood from his nose dripping to the mat.

One...

Two...

Three!

Black Phoenix gets her other shoulder up too late!! Jason Stone rolls out of the ring holding his face with one hand as the ref goes to the outside and raises his hand in victory.

Zach King: Here is your winner... And advancing to the Gold Rush Quarterfinals... JASON STONE!

Caelan Tyler: Technical prowess won out over sheer viciousness!

Jake Steel: BOO! I DEMAND A RECOUNT!

Caelan Tyler: It seems a camera crew was requested to be backstage.

Jake Steel: Requested? What kind of cream puff requests a crew to be backstage?

Caelan Tyler: Our sources say it has something to do with Society.

Jake Steel: Abuse! I am interested now! Show it! NOW!

The feed goes to the backstage area to see one of the many hallways that can be found all over the arena. The hallway is lined with locker rooms of all the talent that NLW has to offer. The focus seems to be on the Legacy Champion's locker room at the moment. A hand appears from off the screen and knocks on the door. The image moves out to reveal Danny Boy Vegas holding a steel chair.

Danny Boy Vegas: You wanted to give me a steel chair necklace, tubby?! Not a chance in hell! I will show you once and for all that you aren't anything compared to me!

The door opens and Phoenix pokes his head out just in time to see the chair fly towards him. Phoenix backs up just enough to watch the chair slam against the molding of the door. Danny Boy Vegas brings back the chair for another strike, but Phoenix dives out the door and tackles Danny Boy Vegas against the wall. Instead of going down, Danny Boy Vegas remains on his feet and slams the chair down across Phoenix's back.

Jake Steel: Now that is the type of abuse I can really get behind!

Caelan Tyler: How did you get your microph–wait! Do you see that?

Jake Steel: The Phoenix abuse? Hell, yes, I see it.

Caelan Tyler: No, something in the background of the image.

Danny Boy Vegas has the chair high above his head looking for a second swing on the downed Phoenix. Danny Boy Vegas sees movement out of the corner of his eye and turns to look down the hall. Walking down the hall with Robo-Betsy at his side is none other than Draco. Danny Boy Vegas moves the chair looking like he is ready to swing at Draco. Draco takes a sip on his water and just walks past the attack and actually steps over Phoenix.

Jake Steel: AHAHAHAHAHA!

Danny Boy Vegas thinks this is just a ploy, but Draco's history with Phoenix is one that doesn't exactly scream 'bestest friends for ever-est'. Danny Boy Vegas presses the chair down against Phoenix's throat as he eyes Draco's back.

Danny Boy Vegas: Yeah, keep walking! You know better than to interfere in my business!

Robo-Betsy stops and turns around growling at Danny Boy Vegas in the digital growl of hers. Draco doesn't turn around at all. He reaches down grabbing Robo-Betsy and trying to get her to move with him. This was all happening much to the amusement of Danny Boy Vegas.

Draco: Come on, girl. It's not worth it. It is Phoenix.

Danny Boy Vegas starts to chuckle as he sees Robo-Betsy turn around. Draco and his mechanical beast head off toward his locker room.

Danny Boy Vegas: An erector set bitch has more balls than you! What a crock!

There was no response from Draco. Danny Boy Vegas enjoyed another laugh at the former Legacy Champion's expense before pushing the chair harder down against Phoenix's throat. Phoenix was starting to get his bearings straight, but that didn't last long as Danny Boy Vegas gave him a hard kick to the side of the head.

Danny Boy Vegas: I guess you get to wear the necklace tonight, bitch.

Danny Boy Vegas brings the chair up over his head for the kill shot. As he brings it down, his eyes look off to the side out of the camera's viewing range. In less than a second the source of this distraction is seen to be Draco. He leaps up and hits a flying tackle knocking Danny Boy Vegas off of Phoenix and into a small beverage station.

Jake Steel: Damnit Draco! At least let him wrap the chair around his head!

Caelan Tyler: Seems like someone is stepping up to save Phoenix against the bully nature of Society.

Jake Steel: Boooo! More violence!

Before Danny Boy Vegas can react Draco grabs a jug of Gatorade and dumps it over his head while mouthing some cliché line about looking thirsty. Danny Boy Vegas struggles against the waterfall of electrolytes.

Caelan Tyler: And don't forget new G2 Gatorade with half the calories.

With the empty bucket in his hand Draco puts it over Danny Boy Vegas' head and throws him off the table and down to the floor. Draco hits soccer kick after soccer kick to the bucket on Danny Boy Vegas' head.

Draco: What was that last comment? Something about balls?!

Draco makes sure to emphasize that last statement by a rather hard stomp to the nether region of Society's newest member. Danny Boy Vegas' voice could be heard echoing slightly in the bucket as he howls in pain.

Draco: I've heard my name come out of your mouth one too many times there shithead. I let it slide. Why? Because I have more important things to worry about. Then you go and show me disrespect when I don't interrupt your business. Now, that was your biggest mistake.

Danny Boy Vegas is hoisted up by the bucket and pushed against the wall. He starts to move in an attempt to get the Gatorade soaked bucket off his head.

Draco: Not such a tough guy when you don't have people behind you, eh? Let this be a lesson to you. If you learned it, then good for you. If you didn't, then consider yourself at the top of my shit list.

Draco turns around to see Robo-Betsy only a few feet from Danny Boy Vegas. The bucket comes off and it looks like Danny Boy Vegas was going to get his revenge on Draco. Robo-Betsy lunges forward and gives Danny Boy Vegas one of her patented shock bites straight to his stomped nuts. Danny Boy Vegas convulses on the ground and in a rather high pitched voice promises his revenge to come later.

Draco: I guess you just moved up...at least on her shit list.

The duo start to walk away, but Phoenix has managed to get up to his feet holding his back. He stops the man and machine that saved his hide this evening. Phoenix puts his hand out to stop Draco as he wants answers as to what happened here.

The Phoenix: I'd say I owe you one, but you'd just shrug me off.

Draco: Listen here, Phoenix.

Phoenix's hand is swatted away from Draco and it looks like 'The Hellacious One' is ready to take a swing at the man who he had just saved. Instead Draco gets nose to nose with the bigger man and it looks like his blood is starting to boil.

Draco: You want my title? Fine! You want my personal life? Watch your fucking step because I am already setting my sights on you. Don't make it worse for yourself.

The tension between these two seems to run deeper than the ring, at least it seems it does on Draco's side. Phoenix is ready for another fight, but instead Draco just walks past him. Not without giving him a hard enough shoulder block to send him into the wall. Phoenix grips his shoulder and glares at Draco's back.

The Phoenix: I don't want your life, Draco. Just my own.

The scene switches back to the announcers' table.

Caelan Tyler: It seems that these two may be on the same side of a war, but far from allies.

Jake Steel: Phoenix abuse?

Caelan Tyler: Possibly.

Jake Steel: Then I approve.

Caelan Tyler: Again, another one of these 'viral' things on the Jumbotron, I wonder what the hell this is all about?

Jake Steel: I have no idea, but someone needs to look into it already, it's starting to annoy the heck outta me.

Caelan Tyler: You just don't like mysteries, do you Jake?

Jake Steel: Hell no I don't, I have better things to do than waste my time with them.

Caelan Tyler: That viral message is an interesting lead-in for this match-up involving members of Society though, as I suspect they might be the ones behind it.

Caelan Tyler: Nah, Society is too 'in your face' to fuck with those kinds of mind games.

Caelan Tyler: I don't know if I agree with you there, but this match should be interesting considering the disagreements from earlier.

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

Jake Steel: Of course not! 'Nuklear' Heat does not rust, Caelan!

A guitar riff begins to fill the ears of all in attendance as 'Riot' by Three Days Grace brings Josh Allen out from the back.

Jake Steel: If it leads to abuse, who cares?

The arena goes dark with the only light coming from the Society logo shining brightly on the Jumbotron. A few seconds go by and the arena is already filling with a mixture of boos and incoherent yelling. 'Biggest and the Best' by Clawfinger begins to play over the PA system, the techno rhythm plays for a few moments than the bass drum hits which sends a large blast of pyro off down the entrance ramp.

Nobody is perfect but I'm pretty fucking close
and I'm here to give you all a heavy heavenly dose
I think you'd better listen 'cos I know who you are
and I think that you should treat me like a superstar
because I'm more than just a human I'm a gift to all of you
and I'm here to make sure that my message gets through

As the pyro dies does, smoke begins to fill the entrance to the stage. Slowly, through the mist, a blue spotlight to the left of the entrance begins to illuminate, silhouetting a large figure. To the right of the entrance, a red spotlight comes up, silhouetting another, large figure.

I wonder if you're really all as dumb as you look
or are you smart enough to learn the rules in my book
I hope you understand that the knowledge I bring
puts me in the position of a god or a king
'cos I'm blessed with the gift of the magic touch

With another burst of pyro shooting up from either side of the two figures, as expected, it is revealed to be Brad Jackson and Danny Boy Vegas, members of Society. The two stand at the top of the entrance ramp for a few moments, glancing over the crowd, occasionally yelling at them, or just shaking their heads in disgust. Jackson is dragging his championship belt down the ramp, while DBV looks pissed off, still soaked in the Gatorade from earlier.

and I wouldn't say that I'm asking for to much
all you have to do is get down on your knees and pray
and I promise you the remedy is on its way
but you can never be like me so don't waste your time
because I reign supreme and my position is divine

Jackson is nearly half way down the ramp by this point, with DBV lagging behind to taunt fans. Jackson holds up his Anarchy X Championship, taunting a particularly loud fan while Danny catches up.

What's wrong with being self possessed?
Nobody's satisfied with being second best
I've got the gift and I know that I'm blessed
and I've got to get it off my chest

Once the duo reaches the ring, Jackson slides under the bottom rope, and begins to bounce around in the center of the ring. DBV has used the stairs and is standing in Society's corner. 'Biggest and the Best' begins to die down as the lights return to their normal setting with Society in the ring waiting for the bell, staring down both Heat and Josh Allen.

Zach King: And their opponents... Weighing in at a combined 588 pounds... Brad Jackson and Danny Boy Vegas... SOCIETY!

Caelan Tyler: You'd have to think that the members of Society have the edge in this match, even if these two have never teamed up before.

Jake Steel: Thank you, Captain Obvious.

Caelan Tyler: This will be the in-ring debut for Danny Boy Vegas. You know that some people in the back will be watching this match carefully; The Phoenix being one of them.

Jake Steel:: He'd better; he can learn how not to choke by watching The Ace of Spades in the ring!

On the Society side of the ring, Jackson all but forces Vegas out of the ring before turning back to the center. On the opposite side, a slightly heated discussion (no pun intended) ends with Heat staying in the ring. The bell sounds, as the two wrestlers come to the middle of the ring. Quick collar-and-elbow tie-up, and Jackson wastes no time in shoving Heat across the ring, the size advantage clearly obvious.

Caelan Tyler: The Anarchy X champion showing his obvious power advantage over the smaller Kevin Heat.

Again, the two close in, and this time Heat ducks under the tie-up attempt, slipping between the legs of Jackson before delivering a dropkick to the back. Jackson staggers forward a few steps, and then turns in time to eat a forearm from Heat. A second follows this, staggering Jackson back into a neutral corner. Kevin looks for a kneelift, and connects before attempting an Irish whip. That doesn't work too well, as Jackson refuses to budge. A repeat of this yields the same result, and finally Jackson has enough of it and sends Heat into the opposing turnbuckles with a high amount of velocity. Kevin Heat lands on the mat, face-first, and quickly rolls out of the ring to break Jackson's momentum before it even gets started.

Caelan Tyler: So far, this match has not started well for Kevin Heat, as he looks to throw Brad Jackson off a bit.

Jake Steel:: Pfft, Heat's still getting warmed up, Cael. Any moment now he's going to go 'nuklear' on someone.

Caelan Tyler: Be that as it may, right now the advantage is clearly in Society's favor.

The ref begins his count, as Jackson walks over to the corner, where Danny Boy Vegas is busy taunting the fans, and slaps Vegas's hand. The ref acknowledges this as a tag, as Vegas gives Jackson a 'what the hell are you doing?' glare. Jackson just shrugs and motions towards Heat, who is still standing outside.

Caelan Tyler: It appears as there is a bit of dissension in the ranks. Danny Boy Vegas did not appear to like that tag.

Jake Steel:: They'll be fine, Cael. Now we can see what kind of abuse DBV can cause!

DBV drops down to the floor, coming around the ring towards Heat. In his corner, Josh Allen sees this coming and alerts Heat. Heat takes off, rounding one corner before sliding into the ring. As Vegas finally makes it in, Heat is already coming off the near-side ropes, and catches Vegas with a baseball slide to the ribs, forcing DBV back onto the floor. Heat looks ready to press the advantage, but has to wait as Josh Allen takes off from the apron, a double stomp to the back of Vegas hitting squarely!

Caelan Tyler: A bit of teamwork there from Heat and Allen, but I don't think Kevin appreciated the textbook move from Josh Allen!

Jake Steel:: What do you expect? Heat was about to steal the show there and Allen ruined it!

Heat now looks ready to go, as he once again comes off the ropes. However, he forgot about the Anarchy X Champion. With a forearm to the back of the head, Heat's plan is abandoned, as Jackson quickly comes in and drops Heat with a wicked clothesline! The ref turns to see this, and breaks the count to admonish Jackson, sending him back outside. Allen, in the meantime, manages to roll Vegas back into the ring, and takes up his post in the corner again. Both men are down, but not for long as Vegas is first up. He closes in on Heat, who again evades the larger opponent and kicks him in the back of the knee. Heat gets some separation and looks to tag Allen, who makes no move to stretch towards his partner. Kevin says something that the camera can't pick up before forcibly slapping Josh's hand for the tag.

Caelan Tyler: And now a bit of dissension showing between Josh Allen and Kevin Heat.

Jake Steel: This is like a powder keg waiting to go off; I love it!

Allen comes in, shouldering Heat out of the way as he stares down Vegas. DBV smirks, and is about ready to close in when Jackson reaches in and slaps Vegas on the back. The ref calls that a tag as well, and as Vegas turns, the camera can pick up 'What the hell?' Jackson steps inside, not really paying attention to Vegas as he and Allen lock up. The ref finally gets Vegas out of the ring as Allen goes behind Jackson and applies a hammerlock.

Caelan Tyler: Josh Allen using his speed advantage against the Anarchy X Champion here. Smart thinking from Josh.

Jake Steel: Dammit, Tyler, are you going to have your head stuck up Allen's ass AGAIN this week?

Caelan Tyler: ...

After a few seconds, Jax reaches back, grabs Allen's head and snapmares him over. Before he can press the advantage, Josh is quickly back on his feet charging at the Anarchy X champion. Jackson sees it coming, and ducks the clothesline attempt. Allen ends up too close to the Society corner, though, and eats a right hand from DBV. Josh drops to the mat like a sack of potatoes as Vegas leers down at him, then yells at Jackson to keep on him. Jackson glares at Vegas, and for a brief second it seems like Jax might slap the taste out of DBV's mouth before the Anarchy X champion finally puts the boots to Allen.

Caelan Tyler: It almost looks like Vegas and Jackson are not on the same page.

Jake Steel: Same page? They're not even in the same book!

Caelan Tyler: You actually have a point. I'm shocked.

After a series of boots, Jax spins around and makes a hard tag to Vegas--almost an open-handed slap, to be honest. The look on Vegas' face could kill...if, you know, looks actually could kill and all of that. As it stands, DBV comes into the ring, pulls Allen towards the middle, and drops an elbow to the chest. Vegas holds for the cover, but only gets a short two as Allen pops the left shoulder up. Getting to his feet, DBV pulls Josh to his feet and then lands a clubbing blow to the back that drops Allen once again. On the apron, Kevin Heat can be seen shouting something, though what he is saying can't be picked up at the moment. Vegas turns to look at Heat, and delivers a one-fingered salute to the former Anarchy X and Legacy champion. That's long enough, though, for Allen to recover and deliver a chop block to the knees of Vegas. The big man drops, as Allen scrambles to his corner. Josh looks for the tag, which Heat at first is hesitant to accept, but finally does.

Caelan Tyler: And again it seems like there's a problem in the ranks, as Heat slowly re-enters the ring.

Jake Steel: Bah, he was letting Josh know who the superior member of the team was, Cael!

Heat now comes into the ring, kicking at DBV's legs while Vegas tries to recover. As Vegas gets to the ropes and uses them to pull himself to his feet, Kevin lands a drokick to the back of the knee to send Vegas down. Heat looks for a cover, but Vegas' foot is under the rope. A moment later, DBV powers out of the cover, sending Heat about three feet away as DBV rolls to his stomach, trying to stand. Heat gets back up, and charges in at Vegas looking for a cross body block, but Vegas catches him in mid-air and delivers a falling front slam to the much smaller competitor.

Caelan Tyler: That might have been the break that Jackson and Vegas needed to take control of this contest!

Vegas again smirks at Heat, and pulls him to his feet before whipping him into the ropes. Heat comes off, and is unable to avoid the big boot to the face. DBV drops into the cover, getting a two before the cover is broken by Josh Allen. He's quick to get back out of the ring, shouting something into the ring, whether directed at Vegas or Heat is anyone's guess. DBV gets back to his feet, looking to press the advantage as he again pulls Heat to a vertical base. A moment later, Heat is placed in position for a powerbomb, as Vegas sends a glare towards his partner.

Caelan Tyler: This could end the match right here!

Jake Steel: If it leads to ABUSE it's worth it, Caelan!

However, the move never even gets started, as Heat slips out of it and makes a mad scramble for his corner. Heat lunges for the tag, and to everyone's surprise, Allen accepts it. On the other side of the ring, Jackson and Vegas are arguing over something. Josh sprints forward, leaping up to catch DBV in the back with a dropkick. This sends Vegas to the outside, and as Jackson comes in to try to slow down Josh, a commotion is seen at the top of the ramp.

Caelan Tyler: Here comes The Phoenix! He's got revenge on his mind!

Jake Steel: Who let that fat bastard out here? SECURITY!

Phoenix is making a beeline for Vegas, revenge apparently on his mind for the chair attack earlier in the show. However, he never sees Shane Donovan leap over the crowd barricade behind him, and Phoenix is once again attacked from behind by Society, as Donovan lays into the big man with repeated right hands. Vegas smirks, and those who can read lips can see him say 'just as planned' before getting back in the ring.

Caelan Tyler: It was a set-up! Phoenix just got suckered in by Society!

Jake Steel: Hah! Phoenix chokes again! I love it!

Allen and Jackson are trading right hands in a stalemate before DBV comes in and drops Allen with a running clothesline. Jackson glares at Vegas, but before he can say anything Heat comes sprinting back across the ring, a flying forearm to the head sending Jax outside. Heat follows this with a plancha to send both men sprawling to the outside, as Vegas sizes up Allen for the Burning Hammer. However, Allen is quick to recover, and DBV's plans are all for naught as Allen catches him with a kick in the gut, and follows with an Implant DDT!

Caelan Tyler: Josh Allen in firm control here! This is the beginning of the end!

Jake Steel: Says who? The match is still going!

The crowd senses that the end could be near, but can Josh Allen deliver the Touch of Reality on the 300+ pounder? Allen looks at DBV before deciding that another solution is probably necessary, and quickly climbs to the top turnbuckle. Sizing up the situation, Allen leaps off, delivering a beautiful shooting star leg drop onto the prone Vegas. Quickly, Allen hooks the leg...

1

2

3!

Three Days Grace's 'Riot' hits the airwaves as Allen gets to his feet, staring a hole into the fallen body of DBV.

Zach King: Here are your winners: Josh Allen and Kevin Heat!

Caelan Tyler: Allen and Heat did it! Smart move by Josh there, knowing there was no way he'd get someone DBV's size into the Touch of Reality he opted for his old finisher, one he hasn't used since his glory days in the ICWF!

Jake Steel: Bah humbug!

Heat finally breaks off the attack as Allen celebrates in the ring for a few more moments. Allen exits the ring, shoving a few photographers and camera men aside. He spits on the ground, rubs his arm muscles, and glances at the fans as they reach out toward him, booing and cursing him. Heat starts to exit, and Josh suddenly turns around. He stares at Heat down the aisle and quickly moves back to him.

Caelan Tyler: Uh, this may not be good.

Josh yells at Heat, who yells back and walks around him. Josh spins him around and yells some more, then shoves Heat. Heat shoves Josh back, and the two continue yelling at each other. After several seconds, the two seem to agree on something. Heat finally turns and walks away to the backstage area. Josh decides to slide back into the ring with a microphone.

Jake Steel: Well there goes the neighborhood. Can he ever just, maybe not say ANYthing?

The fans, who'd gotten quiet during Allen and Heat's exchange, began to murmur again.

Josh Allen: I want to make something clear to you people. Some of you have said some fairly unfair things toward me, toward my girlfriend...

The fans boo, and a small section in the crowd can be heard chanting 'slut!'

Josh Allen: That's fine, that's fine... I've learned you people are only after a cheap hero who looks like a God, flexing his big, steroid-induced muscles.

More boos. Someone throws a bottled water at Josh.

Josh Allen: Jackass... Anyways, you think you feel that way now, wait until I push my way through and become your next NLW Champion. It's only the natural cycle that a man whose influence is rooted so deep in this company's history comes back to become the champ. And for you people backstage... playing your little games, lifting the weights, having a power bar, note this: Stay out of my damn way. Cross me, and you'll end up in a body brace.

Josh drops his microphone. 'Riot' by Three Days Grace accompanies him up the aisle and into the back.

Caelan Tyler: Strong parting words here from Josh Allen, who has been on fire since returning from his knee injury.

Jake Steel: Quit reminding me.

Backstage we find 'The Hellacious One' Draco sitting in his locker room lacing up his boots in preparation for his upcoming match. Beside him is 'The Cybernetic One' Robo-Betsy. The gears and motors of this mechanical beast can be heard as she nuzzles her head against her master's leg.

Draco: Not now, girl. Messing with those two loosened up my gear.

Robo-Betsy: Merrrrrr, I wuv you.

Draco: I know, I know. I love you, too, girl.

The door to the dressing room swings open, and Jack Sullivan walks in.

Jack Sullivan: Since when did you become a vigilante?

Draco: And if it isn't old Sack Jullivan. What if I was standing here naked? You pervert.

The violent history between Jack Sullivan and Draco is well documented and hasn't lessened their feelings for one another over the years. Draco has a smug smirk on his face seeing the boss barge into his locker room.

Jack Sullivan: Couldn't be anymore scarring than watching you try to wrestle. We need to get something straight though.

Draco leans back with his arms crossed and the smirk leaving his face quickly. Jack Sullivan was all business it seemed tonight. Robo-Betsy started to move to give Jack Sullivan a shock bite, but Draco stopped her. Though, in the man's defense, he did hesitate a bit.

Draco: The with us or against us speech, Sacky?

Jack Sullivan: You're always against me, I need to know whether you're going to be acting in NLW's best interest or not.

Draco: Hmmm, a much different question I expected.

The gears were turning in the former Legacy Champion's head as he looked over his boss. His face was just as unreadable as Jack Sullivan's. Neither wanted to give the other man any type of leverage. The two were always at war with one another.

Draco: It would be such a sweet deal to just go against you and drive this federation into the ground...like you tried with me. EJ Slayer ring a bell?

Jack Sullivan: I did you a favor. If not for what I did you'd still be sitting in bingo halls and county fairs attempting to scrape by. I gave you a job, and I gave your employees that I felt were worth a damn a job, but if you want to throw my kindness in my face I'm sure we could work something out.

The statement didn't sit well with Draco at all. He was up on his feet and doing his best to get in the taller man's face. Jack didn't back down from the physical challenge Draco was presenting to him. Robo-Betsy was right at Draco's side doing her best imitation of a wolf growl. Megrrrrr.

Draco: A favor? A fucking favor?! It's called sabotage to get my talent you bastard! How about I do you a favor and give you the warning that if you don't get out of my locker room you won't be in any shape to manage yourself let alone a major federation.

Jack Sullivan: You're just begging me to break you like I did in the past. You know, I will do you a favor by walking away, it'll keep you from doing something stupid before your match. Just remember Draco, cross me and its back to diving off bingo hall balconies for pennies.

With that Jack exits the room. Draco is fuming and turns to the row of lockers against the wall. It angered him further that Jack got the last word in. Trying to relieve some of the anger, Draco strikes at the locker. The metal locker dents slightly in the shape of Draco's fist. Robo-Betsy watched Draco hit the locker and then proceeded to do the same in a headbutt variation. She stumbles back and falls into a seated position.

Draco: Bastard.

Robo-Betsy: Merrrrr.

Caelan Tyler: Well that was a bit of a heated exchange there, Jack's not making any friends tonight.

Jake Steel: Good, about time someone put Draco in his place.

We're taken backstage again to a camera hovering in front of a door with 'Kevin Heat' written on the label. Within the room are sounds of a scuffle. The cameraman pushes the door open, revealing... nothing. At first glance. The cameraman wanders in further until the sounds of snorting and chewing begin to emerge. The camera pans back and forth almost frantically before turning downward. Perched in Heat's duffle bag, gnawing on a toothbrush, is the little, black fiend known as Bacon. Heat's clothes are strewn about with chunks of fabric missing, and other items a tad more... soiled than they were upon Heat's arrival. The beast snorts and stands, toothbrush still locked in an iron-jaw. The beast takes a familiar pose which causes the cameraman to turn and start running for the door. Shortly thereafter, the camera goes flying and short-circuits briefly. When the image returns, the cameraman is on the ground with an arm over his face. Bacon is standing on his chest, snorting and grunting. Bacon jumps off the cameraman's chest and almost skips back to his owner's dressing room.

Jake Steel: That damn pig! NLW needs a 'no pets' policy!

Caelan Tyler: I'm starting to agree with you Jake...

The scene fades to that of a sandy beach. The sun is shining, the beach is crowded, people all around just enjoying the warm weather. The camera zooms in on a rather scrawny guy working on a sand castle. The camera focuses more, and it's revealed to be none other than NLW's very own Harvey Danger! He seems hard at work, trying to perfect his creation when a rather large, muscular lifeguard comes running through, trampling the sand castle.

Voice-Over: Has this ever happened to you?

The voice-over is quickly recognized as NLW announcer Jake Steel.

Jake Steel: Are you a push over? A total pussy? Well, ABUSE can help!

A picture of a large canned beverage appears on-screen, with the word 'ABUSE' written across the can in bold lettering.

Jake Steel: ABUSE is the new energy drink used by all your favorite NLW superstars when they need that extra boost to deal out the points on my patented abuse-o-meter! Available flavors include Black Phoenix Berry and Dracolicious Grape! Don't be like Harvey there, and try one today!

The scene cuts over to NLW Champion The Ice Man, who is also making a sand castle. The same person who trampled Harvey's poor sand castle also does the same to Ice's. Clearly not amused, Ice Man pulls out a can of ABUSE and quickly chugs it before following the guy, nailing him with a spear! Ice Man then lifts him up, spinning him around and drilling him with The Ice Pick, dropping him right onto the newly rebuilt sand castle of Harvey.

Jake Steel: ABUSE!

Caelan Tyler: You do product placement ads now Jake?

Jake Steel: What can I say? I love me some ABUSE!

Caelan Tyler: Regardless, we're going into our third Gold Rush match of the evening, with the former Legacy Champion Draco taking on PIC.

The arena is quickly cast into a state of darkness. In the blackened arena an air raid siren sounds causing most of the fans to press their fingers against their ears in a failed attempt to block out of the. On either side of the entrance ramp two rotating red lights shine showing that the entrance way through a thick fog. Through the siren bullets can be heard, and then soon after it escalates to missiles and bombs going off. A guitar starts to play a rift and gun fire is seen crossing back and forth across the stage making it look like a war zone.

Indestructible
Determination that is incorruptible
From the other side
A terror to behold
Annihilation will be unavoidable
Every broken enemy will know
That their opponent get to be invincible
Take a last look around while you're alive
I'm an indestructible master of war

Making his way through the war zone that was the entrance way without a scratch, Draco climbs into the ring. He throws his head up tossing the hood off to reveal his face. The fans cheer as he holds his arms above his head. He takes off his hooded shirt and tosses it into the crowd. Draco then leans against the rings ready for the match.

Zach King: The following match is a Gold Rush Round Two match and is scheduled for one fall. Making his way to ring first, from Whitesboro, New York...Weighing in at 204 pounds... 'THE HELLACIOUS ONE' DRACO!

Caelan Tyler: This is Draco's first match back since he lost the Legacy Championship from The Phoenix, and judging from what happened earlier he's definitely not over that loss.

Jake Steel: I don't think it's possible to get over a loss to that guy.

Caelan Tyler: The Phoenix is an excellent competitor Jake.

Jake Steel: Only in your imagination.

The lights dim as flashing lights begin to light up the entrance ramp. 'Rebirthing' by Skillet begins to play as the crowd stands to their feet. As the orchestra gives way to a scream, pyro shoots from both sides as PIC jumps into view. The crowd erupts as the music picks up, with PIC firing them up on his way to the ring. He claps hands all along the ramp and around the ring, then slides under the bottom rope. As the song hits its chorus, he jumps up to the middle rope and extends both arms before slapping himself in the chest.

Caelan Tyler: And his opponent, from Charleston, West Virginia... Weighing in at 235 pounds... PIC!

Caelan Tyler: PIC has been a man possessed since returning, first beating Sebastian Ashe and the NLW Champion The Ice Man in a triple threat match, then advancing to the second round of this tournament by defeating Aaron Andrews.

Jake Steel: I hope he knocks some sense into Draco, someone needs to.

Caelan Tyler: Well, if anyone could derail Draco's NLW Championship hopes here, it's the former IEW and ICWF standout.

Draco rushes at PIC and delivers a running forearm smash sending PIC firmly down to the mat as the bell rings. He proceeds to jump on top of PIC and begin wailing on him with everything he has. He delivers left after right after left. The ref jumps in to break up the assault as PIC fights for his life in the corner of the ring. The referee attempt to pull Draco off of the fallen PIC, but Draco pushes the ref out of the way and continues the brutal onslaught. Draco is relentless in the attack.

Caelan Tyler: Draco off to a fast start here, taking it to PIC with a flurry of blows.

Jake Steel: He must be hanging out with those crazy bitches too much, he's starting to wrestle like them.

Draco finally relinquishes his assault. He back up into the opposite corner of the ring and waits for his opponent to rise. PIC slowly crawls onto his hands and knees. He rests in this position momentarily. With no time to breathe, Draco rushes at PIC from across the ring and delivers a vicious jumping sick kick, impacting firmly across the face of PIC. Blood flies in all directions as his lifeless body drops to the mat face first. Draco quickly jumps to his feet after the attack and prepares to follow up, realizing that PIC is unable to continue to the match. The referee jumps in to make sure that PIC is still able to compete. The ref attempts to communicate with PIC as he lays helpless on the mat. Draco brushes in and grabs PIC by the head, he lifts him slowly to his feet. PIC quickly counters with an arm drag. Draco jumps to his feet only to receive and second arm drag. He jumps to his feet a third time only to receive a third consecutive arm drag planting him firmly on his back. PIC stands over Draco, whipping the blood from his nose.

Caelan Tyler: Tonight just seems to be one for blood, as that's the second time someone's gotten their nose bloodied by a vicious kick to the face.

Jake Steel: ABUSE~! He's definitely taking pages out of the crazy bitch handbook.

Caelan Tyler: Well now PIC's gotten control of the match, we'll see where he goes with it.

PIC jumps down to the mat and attempts to control the match as he places Draco in a inverted Dragon Sleeper. Draco scurries for freedom, but cannot overpower PIC as Draco begins to fade inside the middle of the ring. PIC applies more pressure to the hold as Draco's face shows pure torture. He attempts to break free, but fails once again as his body slowly drops limp to the mat. The ref jumps in to administer the count. He lifts Draco's limp arm.

1...

Draco's arm falls helplessly to the mat. He raises the arm once more for the second count.

2...

The referee raises the arm a third time, the crowd on their feet, with PIC wrenching Draco's back almost breaking him in half.

Caelan Tyler: PIC is really wrenching his back with that Dragon Sleeper, and he might be able to put Draco out with it.

Jake Steel: Now that would be salt in the wounds, losing two matches in a row to submission.

Caelan Tyler: It could very well happen here.

3....

At the very last second, Draco raises his arm in disbelief. He struggles to maintain the steadiness, but fights with all of his life with the crowd on his side, and on their feet. Draco slowly begins to rise to his feet, PIC struggles to hold the move, but eventually relinquishes the hold. PIC throws Draco towards the ropes, he returns and PIC attempts a back body drop. Draco dodges the attack and runs towards the opposite ropes. He returns with a running clothesline, only to be reversed into a devastating reverse DDT by PIC. Draco drops into convulsions on the mat. PIC quickly follows up with a running log drop, followed by a pin.

1...

2....

2 and 7/8ths!

Caelan Tyler: Kickout by Draco here!

Jake Steel: Bah! Just die already! I want to move onto people I care about watching wrestling, like Aphrodisia Jordan.

Caelan Tyler: Both Draco and PIC are well known for their never say die attitudes, I doubt either man will be giving up any time soon.

Pulling Draco up, PIC does a standing switch, getting behind Draco and delivering a german suplex. PIC keeps his hands locked, yanking Draco back up and delivering a second suplex. His hands still locked, PIC attempts for a trifecta, but Draco delivers a sharp elbow to the already bloodied nose of PIC, causing PIC to release the hold. Draco then bounces off the nearby ropes, grabbing PIC by the head and delivering a nasty bulldog, slamming him face-first to the mat.

Caelan Tyler: Draco managing to battle back into control of the match here with that elbow and bulldog combination, no doubt seeking to take advantage of that bloody nose.

Jake Steel: He's looking to make that into a faucet!

Caelan Tyler: If he keeps this up he might break PIC's nose, if it isn't already!

Draco quickly shifts to PIC's leg, grabbing the ankle and slapping on an anklelock before quickly going for a leg grapevine. Before Draco can lock on the grapevine PIC is able to shift his body over and grab the ropes. The referee starts the count for Draco to break the hold, getting to four before Draco lets go of the ankle.

Caelan Tyler: Draco going for the anklelock there, could it be that he was trying to finish PIC off with the Blaze of Glory?

Jake Steel: Well if Mr. Choke can win matches with it, then one would think Draco would be able to.

Caelan Tyler: PIC was showing his ring experience by knowing exactly where the ropes are to get out of that potentially match-ending hold.

Shaking his head, Draco grabs PIC and pulls him up, peppering him with forearms while whipping him into the ropes. Draco bounces off of his own ropes, leveling PIC with a flying forearm. Draco pops back to his feet, fired up as he yells to the crowd, stomping his foot. PIC slowly gets to his feet, and Draco attempts to drill him with the Momentum Shift Superkick. PIC is able to duck out of the way at the last second, stepping to the side. He then quickly grabs Draco by the head and delivers a neckbreaker. PIC then quickly pulls Draco up and hooks him, lifting him into the air and delivering a Michinoku Driver, no doubt scrambling Draco's brains and his head crashes to the mat. PIC then hooks the leg.

1...

2...

No, shoulder up at the last second!

Caelan Tyler: Beautiful Michinoku Driver by PIC there not enough to finish off Draco.

Jake Steel: These two are both bringing the pain to each other with these high impact moves. Normally I could care less about this garbage wrestling, but these two are giving each other what for.

Caelan Tyler: Jake caring about non-hardcore wrestling? I'm shocked.

Jake Steel: As long as there's abuse that can be measured on the Abuse-o-meter I'm happy.

PIC grabs Draco and raises him to his feet. He drops Draco into position and attempts a piledriver. Draco avoids the move by grabbing the left leg of PIC, and struggling to stay on his feet. PIC attempts the move one more time, only to be reversed into a fireman's carry. Draco shows a magnificent test of strength as he raises PIC onto his shoulders and delivers a fireman's carry crushing PIC hard onto to the mat. Draco shrugs off the former punishment, and realizes that he has the upper hand. He grabs PIC and picks him up by the neck. He sets him up and drops him in a vicious DVD!

Caelan Tyler: Death Valley Driver by Draco here! It is really starting to look like he's stealing The Phoenix's moves here, perhaps to prove a point?

Jake Steel: Yeah, to show The Phoenix how to properly do the damn moves.

Draco walks towards the corner and looks at the crowd. He slowly begins to climb the ropes to the ovation of the audience. He stands on the top turnbuckle and waits for his opponent to finish squirming. Finally, he leaps high in the air, delivering a 450 splash landing directly on top of his opponent, PIC. He hooks the leg as the ref makes the count.

1...

2....

3!

The ref signals for the bell. Draco rolls off of the fallen PIC, holding his ribs in pain. The ref rushes over to raise his hand in victory.

Zach King: The winner of this match, and advancing in the Gold Rush tournament... 'THE HELLACIOUS ONE' DRACO!

Caelan Tyler: And Draco advances, using The Phoenix's own finishers to take down PIC.

Jake Steel: I hope The Phoenix had his notebook handy and was taking notes on how it's done.

PICK YOUR POISON

A soft guitar riff begins to play causing the fans to get on their feet and look towards the entrance to see who it is that's coming out. As the riff plays on the lights slowly dim down. The arena becomes pitch black as the sound of a gun being loaded is heard. Then, a shot is fired and an explosion of green pyro occurs in the entrance. A banging beat gets started as the chorus of the song begins...

You never know...
I just might die tonight so lets get high tonight...
You might try to fight, but your mother will cry tonight...
Cig in my right hand cause you hold tight to life...
But you ain't a bright man...

The lights come back on, but only slightly. A glowing green light emits from the entrance as the smoke from this explosion slowly clears up to reveal 'Venom' Xavier Lux standing there. The fans erupt as the modified version of Cypress Hill's 'Never Know' continues to play...

You know I wrestle with the biggest hitters, crime committers...
And even some big bull shitters...
Never been a quitter Who had the jitters...
sine some bitter tasting minute...
I spit it for those who be it...
Cuz I'm like a soldier so committed to winning...

Venom walks down the ramp listening to the reaction from the crowd. Venom takes in the cheers for a moment before sliding under the bottom rope, into the ring. He stands in the middle of the ring, raises his arms and then crosses them, forming an X. The lights come back on fully now and some of the fans begin to chant: 'Toxic! Toxic!' He calls to one of the stage hands, who hand him a mic.

Xavier Lux: Damn, it's great to be back in a NLW ring.

The crowd's cheering gets louder, and Xavier pauses to let them quiet down a bit before continuing.

Xavier Lux: It's been, what, 5 months since I was last in a NLW ring? Too damn long, that's for sure. I thought I'd make an appearance here tonight to give all of you an update on my injury, and when I'll be able to get back into the ring to compete.

Again Venom has to pause, as the crowd noise spikes back up when he mentioned returning.

Xavier Lux: My leg is almost completely healed now, so it's only a matter of weeks before I can come back and reclaim the NLW Championship that I never lost--

With the mention of the NLW Championship, 'In My Grip' hits, and Jack Sullivan walks onto the ramp, and immediately the fans let him have it, as he's been making a habit of sticking his nose in other people's business tonight.

Jack Sullivan: Sorry Xavier, but it doesn't sound like you got the memo. You see, NLW has moved on with the Gold Rush tournament and the like. So while you are welcome back to NLW, you won't be getting a rematch for the NLW Championship. Your old contract just expired 'Champ', so your rematch clause is out.

The crowd boos mercilessly as Venom glares at Jack, a pissed off look on his face.

Xavier Lux: That's bullshit, I never lost that title!

Jack Sullivan: No, you forfeited it. However, I will let you give something back to the fans here tonight. The NLW Championship match tonight? It just got a special guest ref. Go get your referee shirt.

With that, 'In My Grip' hits again, as Jack exits, leaving Venom to fume in the ring.

Caelan Tyler: This is huge Jake, Venom won't be getting his rematch, but he's going to get to special guest ref tonight!

Jake Steel: He better not fuck things up for Aphrodisia.

Caelan Tyler: This night keeps getting more interesting by the minute.

BAD BLOOD

The camera cuts to a locker room. The Enigma, Talon, is pacing within - clad in his usual wrestling attire, sans lead-piping. His face is full of evident worry, and his soft muttering can just be heard.

Talon: Where is Jay?... That match finished... He was supposed to come back here...

His pacing grows with each passing moment, and the worry on his face begins to morph towards anger. By the time the heavy noise of running is heard on the other side of the door, Talon looks almost fit to burst. Spinning abruptly away from the door to get the small bag containing spare attire, he does not see who it is that bursts into the door.

Talon: Jay, my friend, you might have hur--

Brad Jackson:You worthless sack of shit! I have half a mind to kill you right now.

There in the doorway stood a livid Jackson, hands clenched into fists. At his words, Talon spins, one hand resting on the bag, the other resting where his lead-piping should be. His anger filled face morphs into a faint smirk.

Talon: Jackson. To what do I owe this unexpected pleasure?

Those fists uncurl, and Jackson points at Talon, stabbing the air with his finger.

Brad Jackson: You think this is funny?!

With his faint smirk broadening, Talon straightens up to Jackson, his own fists clenching.

Talon: Of course I do. The great ape bursts in on me and starts screaming. I am only amazed you know language.

Brad Jackson: I'm sure it would blow your fucking mind to know that I not only went to college, but that I hold a doctorate. Asshole.

Talon: Why might that be a surprise? Standards are slipping, after all. A by-product of society.

Without a further word, Jackson launches himself at Talon, snapping his head back with a surprise uppercut. Talon staggers back, his face now a complete grin as he falls against a locker. Pushing off, he levels a hard kick at Jackson's midriff. Jackson stumbles back, gasping for air as he takes a moment to regroup.

Brad Jackson: You play at being the enlightened scholar, but when it comes right down to it, you're just another grunt who gets off on pain.

Talon: I almost hope for too much from you, Brad. I almost hoped you would understand. That violence is a necessity of intelligence.

Almost without warning, Talon swings forward with a heavy right-hand at Jackson, who dodges, and slams a lucky shot into Talon's stomach. Doubling over, Talon grabs the smaller man, half-lifting him and charging into the wall outside of the locker room. Jackson hits the cinderblocks with an audible grunt, and sags to his knees, gasping for air. Talon props him up, aiming a few wild shots at Jackson's gut, before pulling back and taking a handful of Brad's hair - slamming his head back against the wall.

Talon's grin broadens as Jackson sags again slightly, and lines up a vicious knee with Jackson's head, taking half a step before slamming the shot home against Jackson's jaw. His head cracks against the wall, but instead of knocking him out, the blood and pain seems to enrage him further. He stumbles forward, locking his arms around Talon's waist and planting him to the floor with a sloppy slam. As Talon raises his arms to defend his head, he rears his fist back and strikes the Enigma hard on the throat. Coughing with pain, Talon latches both of his hands to Jackson's forearm, and wrenches him off balance. Jackson goes down to his knees, Talon scrambles to his feet, seeking a weapon.

Shaking off the cobwebs, Jackson braces one hand against the wall for support, dragging himself up to his feet. Before he can turn around, however, a scaffolding pole swung by Talon connects viciously with his legs, sweeping him to the ground. With a slightly bloody and exalted grin, Talon raises the pole for a final swing at the floored Jackson. But Jackson rolls aside, and as the pole slams into the floor where his head was, he grabs hold of it, and tries to wrench it from Talon's grasp. Both men grapple for the pole, and just when Jackson's left hand slips off the metal, security storms the hallway.

As Talon plants a heavy boot on Jackson's thigh and wrenches the scaffolding pole back, security grab it and tear it from his grasp. As they pull him back, others rush forward and force the bloodied, yet angry Jackson down the corridor.

Brad Jackson: MOTHERFUCKER!!

Jackson roars at the top of his lungs, and explodes past the security personnel, and lands a wicked punch in Talon's face before he can pull his arms from the security that hold him back. As Talon's head snaps back he spits a wad of blood into the air, and lunges forward - looking to connect a dangerous head butt on the Machine. The security team have regained their grip on the two wrestlers, however, and their frantic struggles or kicks cannot connect with the other, and their curses go unheard as the camera cuts to ringside.

Caelan Tyler: Whoa, Jackson is PISSED.

Jake Steel: Not the right guy to piss off.

Caelan Tyler: Well I think Talon has some right to want to get under Jackson's skin. After all, Jackson retained his title against Talon by not even pinning him, and Society did jump Talon during the match.

Jake Steel: Baby want his bottle much? He lost, he needs to get over it. Sheesh.

JIN ROYALE VERSUS THE PHOENIX GOLD RUSH ROUND TWO

Caelan Tyler: Regardless of how you feel about that Jake, we got our last Gold Rush match of the evening, with Jin Royale taking on The Phoenix in what promises to be a--

Jake Steel: SNOOZEFEST!

Caelan Tyler: No way, both men are very proud, talented competitors.

Jake Steel: Yeah, they're skilled at putting me to sleep.

Caelan Tyler: Whatever Jake...

Soon, the crowd's quiet, nearly hushed as one single line screams through the speakers-

I AM THE WHOOOOOOOOOOOOLE FREAKIN' SHOW!

The lights dim and focus towards the entrance ramp as Through the Fire and Flames by DragonForce begins to play, the guitars building up anticipation.

Zach King: The following is a Gold Rush tournament match and is scheduled for one fall! Making his way to the ring...

As the intro kicks off, Jin Royale appears amid blue and white pyro, hands in the air and spinning on his heels, smile bright on his face. He gestures to the fans before spinning and throwing his trademark Ray-Bans into the audience, where a crowd rushes to grab at them without breaking them.

Zach King: Weighing in at 280 pounds, from Houston, Texas, Mr. Showtime... JIIIIIIIIIIIN ROYAAAAALE!

Jin moves rather quickly down the aisle, slapping and oddly enough, shaking hands the whole way down, before sliding into the ring, running to the turnbuckle and raising his hand high, pumping the crowd up before the match even begins.

Caelan Tyler: Jin advanced to the second round of this tournament by defeating Sebastian Ashe.

Jake Steel: Total fluke.

Caelan Tyler: Anyways, Jin is no doubt fired up to prove what he had said earlier when they announced the reformation of Explicit Content.

The lights in the arena go dark, remaining so for a few moments before a dim red light illuminates the arena. The opening strains of 'The Instinct' hit the arena, slowly building in volume and intensity when, about thirty seconds in, fire shoots from each of the ring corners. Now with a drum beat to match the instrumental, it continues to build in volume for another twenty seconds of so before another large flame pyro goes off at the entryway. As it dies down, a figure can be seen in the smoky haze walking towards the ring as Zach King makes the introduction.

Zach King: And his opponent, from the End of Nowhere... Weighing 365 pounds... He is the current Legacy Champion... this is THE PHOENIX!

There is no emotion on Phoenix's face, just solid determination as he walks to the steps, pauses for a brief moment, and sends a shout to the heavens before climbing in the ring. The lights finally revert back to normal as he pulls on the ropes a couple of times for good measure and waits for the bell.

Caelan Tyler: And there is The Phoenix, who got attacked twice tonight, first by DBV and then by Shane Donovan, although it doesn't look like it's bothering him too much since he's had time to recover from both attacks.

Jake Steel: They should've done more to him.

Caelan Tyler: The Phoenix earned a bye past the first round of the tournament due to him being the Legacy Champion.

Jake Steel: Which is a travesty in and of itself.

The Bell Sounds and the match is underway. Jin Royale and The Phoenix both approach each other in the middle of the ring and have a tense but not unfriendly stare down with each other for a few seconds. Both realize what is at stake, being one step closer to a world title shot. The stare down continues for a few more seconds as the crowd is up in a frenzy. Jin Royale begins to slowly start talking smack to Phoenix and Phoenix begins to mouth back. Both men seem to be feeling it now as both of them are talking at each other and finally Phoenix pushes Jin Royale back. Jin Royale comes back and with a forearm into Phoenix. Another forearm, another forearm. He attempts to Irish Whip Phoenix but Phoenix refuses to budge and he reverses it on Jin Royale throwing him into the ropes. Jin Royale comes off the ropes and he and Phoenix collide and... Neither man goes down. Jin Royale bounces off the ropes again Phoenix holds his ground... neither man goes down again. Jin Royale and The Phoenix spend a second starring at each other. Neither man making head way. Phoenix points to the ropes daring Jin Royale to go for it again. Jin Royale acts like he's going to but instead fakes and charges Phoenix quickly but he doesn't fall for it and he ducks the clothesline attempt. Jin Royale turns around and falls victim to a clothesline attempt of Phoenix's.

Caelan Tyler: Both men evenly matched up here it seems, although it looks like Phoenix managed to get the better of Jin at the end of that first exchange.

Jake Steel: Ugh, this is going to be a very long, dull match if this is how they plan on handling it, isn't it?

Caelan Tyler: I don't know, the crowd seems to be into it Jake.

Jake Steel: The crowd doesn't know what's good. They cheer for Venom, after all.

Jin Royale quickly scrambles up on his feet and gets to the corner. As the Phoenix beckons for him to come at him. Jin Royale is gamed and he charges and locks up. Phoenix is able to throw him back into the corner. Jin Royale charges again as they lock up and Phoenix throws him back in the corner again. Jin Royale won't give up and he charges again this time Phoenix bends over and nails Royale with a back body drop... However this does not fully stop Jin who on the way down grabs Phoenix's legs and is now trying to pull him down in a pin attempt. Phoenix is having no problem maintaining his balance and gives a smile as he knows what he's going to do. He attempts to drop down on Jin Royale but Jin rolls out of the way. Phoenix grimaces as he stands himself back up and Phoenix gets him in a front headlock and locks it in good. Phoenix drops down to one knee while Jin Royale attempts to work the headlock in an attempt to wear Phoenix down. Jin Royale spreads his legs out trying to get leverage as Phoenix is forcing himself up on his feet. He's still in the headlock but he slowly pushes Jin Royale into the corner. He gets him into the corner and the Ref begins to count for a clean break. One... Two... Jin Royale releases the headlock and lifts his hands up as Phoenix backs up... and gives the clean break. The crowd applauds the sportsmanship.

Caelan Tyler: Both men showing that you can still have solid sportsmanship in wrestling with how they are handling this match.

Jake Steel: BOO! Good sportsmanship is boring! Give us blood! Give us ABUSE!

The match back to square one both men lock up with Jin Royale scoring the side headlock. He works Phoenix in the headlock as Phoenix backs him into the ropes and tries to slingshot him off... but Jin Royale holds on! Jin Royale keeps the headlock on Phoenix. Phoenix is still on his feet though and he backs into the ropes successfully again with another attempt to throw Jin Royale off. This time he succeeds with Jin Royale going into the ropes. Jin Royale comes off the ropes and Phoenix successfully shoulder tackles him down! Phoenix goes to drop the big elbow but Jin Royale moves out of the way. With Phoenix rolls over on all fours after the miss and Jin Royale puts him in the side headlock one again this time though Phoenix is down on the mat. Phoenix doesn't waste time though and begins to push himself up while Jin attempts to work the headlock. Phoenix is on his feet and goes for a new strategy. He lifts Jin Royale up and drops him with a back suplex. JIN ROYALE KEEPS THE HEADLOCK ON as Phoenix rolls over and Jin Royale is still maintaining control! Phoenix tries to pull himself up again but Jin Royale pulls hard on the headlock keeping Phoenix from being able to get up. He goes to get up again the same process continues.

Caelan Tyler: Jin keeping control of the match here with that headlock, demonstrating some of the technical prowess he no doubt picked up from years of tagging with Jason Stone.

Jake Steel: I haven't seen this many rest holds since Cactus Jack versus Tommy Dreamer.

Caelan Tyler: It's called mat wrestling Jake.

Jake Steel: It's called LAME wrestling CAEL!

Phoenix is finally able to get back on his feet and in an attempt to get better control Jin Royale quickly reverses to a front headlock spreading his legs out for leverage. It doesn't work though as Phoenix is able to lift Jin Royale up and carry him a few feet before having to put him back down. Jin Royale still has control of the headlock though. Phoenix once again lifts Jin Royale up and carries him to the corner setting him in the corner causing the Ref to once again come in to demand a clean break. One... Two... Jin Royale releases the headlock and puts his hands up showing he's going to give the clean break again. Phoenix begins to back up... instead this time he rams his shoulder in Jin Royale... and again... and again... and again. Phoenix backs up as Jin Royale staggers out of the corner. He scoops Jin Royale up turns around and body slams him hard on the mat! Phoenix goes for the big elbow again and this time he lands it! He goes for the first cover in the match...

One...

Two...

Kick out!

Caelan Tyler: Big elbow by The Phoenix there, but it wasn't enough to keep Jin down!

Jake Steel: Come on, we all know how this match will end anyways, can we just fast forward through it or something?

Caelan Tyler: Jake, this is live wrestling.

Jake Steel: So? You can fast forward through TV.

Caelan Tyler: There's no such thing as a TiVo for real life Jake.

Jake Steel: Bah, there should be.

Phoenix stands up and lets Jin Royale pick himself up halfway. After he's up halfway he grabs Phoenix in a gut wrench position and lifts him up dropping him with a gut wrench suplex. Phoenix immediately goes for a second pin attempt...

One...

Two...

Kick out!

The Phoenix stands himself up and picks up Jin Royale as well. They are both standing again as he sets Jin Royale in a suplex position. He waits a few seconds to let Jin Royale think about it a bit and then lifts him up and hits a perfect text book suplex as Jin Royale rolls to his side to keep Phoenix from going for another immediate suplex attempt. Phoenix has to roll Jin Royale back over first giving Jin a few seconds to recover before the pin attempt...

One...

Two...

Kick out again!

Caelan Tyler: The Phoenix trying to put Jin down with several high impact suplexes, but nothing is sticking so far.

Jake Steel: Yawn.

Phoenix decides Jin Royale just isn't soften up enough for repeated pin attempts and picks him back up again for more attacks. He backs Jin Royale up into the ropes and Irish whips him. Phoenix bends down for another back body drop attempt but he dips down too soon and Jin sends a boot into Phoenix's face sling shooting him back to a standing up position. Jin Royale is attempting to mount an offensive with a forearm shot... another forearm shot. He goes for a standing dropkick but Phoenix swats him down! Jin Royale attempts to push himself up and keep Phoenix from staying on the offensive but it's too late as Phoenix comes up from behind him with a waist lock... Jin attempts to go dead weight but Phoenix will not be denied as he nails him with a NASTY German Suplex with Jin crumpling up like an according before unfolding and lying down on the mat! The crowd grimaces at the German suplex thinking it has to be possibly over as Phoenix makes a mistake and DOES NOT GO FOR THE PIN ATTEMPT.

Caelan Tyler: The Phoenix not going for a pin after that vicious german suplex. I wonder what he's thinking...

Jake Steel: Probably nothing, guy's got nothing but air in his head.

Instead the Phoenix picks up Jin Royale who seemed like he could've been ripe for the pickings. He sets Jin Royale up for a side suplex attempt and he nails it with ease. Phoenix now goes for the pin attempt...

One...

Two...

Thr... Shoulder up!

If Phoenix had just gone for the pin attempt after the German it could've been a different story. Instead the match continues as Phoenix stands up. Jin Royale has rolled over trying to get to the outside apron to buy himself some time and does so. Phoenix isn't having it though and he walks over and with his leg shoves Jin Royale off the apron and onto the outside to attempt to get the count out victory. The Referee comes over and begins the count...

One...

Two...

Three...

Four...

Caelan Tyler: Unable to pick up the victory via pinfall The Phoenix has opted for trying via countout.

Jake Steel: Good, just stay out there Jin.

Caelan Tyler: What, you're not calling for The Phoenix to lose? You feeling okay Jake?

Jake Steel: No, I've come down with a severe case of dontgiveafuckitis.

Jin Royale is able to get back on the apron and seeing that The Phoenix is approaching him the Referee stops the count. Phoenix is over and Jin Royale hits a forearm shot. He hits another forearm shot. Phoenix is stunned as Jin grabs him by the head and drops off the apron draping Phoenix's throat off the top rope and snapping him back. Jin stays on the outside for a moment while Phoenix has turned around and his back is now to Royale as he holds his throat. Jin Royale sees his opportunity and slides back into the ring. Phoenix turns around as Jin Royale comes at him and... Attempts a running Lou Thesz press but Phoenix catches him slams him down in a spinebusteresque maneuver once again denying Jin Royale any momentum. Phoenix doesn't make the German Suplex mistake and goes for the pin attempt...

One...

Two...

T... SHOULDER UP!

Caelan Tyler: High impact move by The Phoenix, but nothing came of it as Jin was able to get his shoulder up!

He went for the pin but it dawns on Phoenix he should've hooked the leg. Two possible errors in the match! Phoenix stands himself up annoyed as Jin Royale remains on his back wondering when the next opening will be. Phoenix bends down and grabs Jin Royale by the head in an attempt to pick him back up. He does so and he goes to Irish whip him into the ropes. He succeeds. Jin Royale comes off the ropes and Phoenix bends himself over for another back body drop attempt. He lifts Royale up he has... wait... Royale holds on to Phoenix's head and begins to frantically frail his legs in the air... he's able to bring Phoenix down with a DDT! Phoenix is prone on the mat but so is Jin Royale who cannot fully capitalize and must use this moment to rest. Phoenix is finally down and Jin Royale might have an opening!

Caelan Tyler: Huge counter by Jin there! This might be just the thing he needs to get back into this!

Jake Steel: Ugh, end aleady!

Jin Royale crawling to the ropes as Phoenix shakes out the cob webs caused by the DDT. Jin Royale has pulled himself up as Phoenix is still hunched over. Jin Royale looks comes in grabs Phoenix's head and hits a swinging neck breaker to put him back down again! Jin Royale still isn't ready to full capitalize as he's still recovering from Phoenix's assault. Jin Royale pushes himself up on his feet as Phoenix rolls over after the neck breaker attempt. Jin Royale is feeling it... the opening is his... time to go on offense. Phoenix is also back up on his feet and Jin Royale with a look of determination on his face comes in with a forearm... another forearm... and a dropkick! Phoenix doesn't go down! Another dropkick! Phoenix is somehow able to remain standing! Jin Royale is determined... he gets a hop in his step and he runs into the ropes and bounces off of it. No dropkick this time he wants to send a message... He dives and drives his shoulder into Phoenix's gut! Phoenix stumbles back and falls into the ropes the ropes twisting around his arms and Phoenix is stuck!

Caelan Tyler: The Phoenix is tangled in the ropes! This should buy Jin the time he needs to really recover from the punishment he took earlier.

Jake Steel: Good, I hope he ends this so we can get to the match we all paid to see already!

Jin Royale amps himself up as the Ref tries to untangle Phoenix from the ropes. He succeeds and Phoenix rolls to the outside of the ring in an attempt to cut short Jin Royale's momentum. Jin isn't having it though as he goes outside to the apron. He jumps off the apron hitting Phoenix from behind with a double ax handle smash to the back! The Ref begins a double count as they are both near the announcer tables now and Jin Royale grabs Phoenix's head and bangs into the ring apron. He grabs it again and bangs it into the ring apron again as Phoenix decides screw this and rolls back into the ring with Jin Royale in full tow! Phoenix is able to get back on his feet as Jin Royale comes in the ring and forearms Phoenix... chops Phoenix. He then boots him in the stomach and causes him to hunch over. Jin Royale double under hooks the arm. The crowd stirs... there is no way he's going to attempt that. Jin Royale actually attempts a double underhook suplex on Phoenix. He goes to lift him... Phoenix doesn't go... he attempts again... Phoenix won't go. Jin Royale releases the double underhook and clubs down on Phoenix's back a few times. After a few blows he double under hooks him again and grunts and groans as he... HE GETS IT! Jin Royale double underhook suplexes Phoenix as the crowd approves! It might of not of been the smartest of decisions as it took a lot out of Jin Royale and he lies there un moving as Phoenix is not budging at all! Jin Royale is finally able to crawl over and drape himself over The Phoenix...

One...

Two...

Thre... SHOULDER UP BY PHOENIX!

Caelan Tyler: Huge double underhook suplex wasn't enough to keep The Phoenix down here. These two just keep going at it.

Jake Steel: BOOOOORING!

Caelan Tyler: Only to you Jake, only to you...

That looked like it could've possibly been over! Jin Royale pushes himself up on his feet but staggers back a bit, the underhook suplex has effected him as well. Phoenix is hurt but is somehow able to slowly bring himself up on his feet. Jin Royale lets him get up and then proceeds to hit a flurry of rights on him. The Ref tries to warn Jin about closed fists but Jin Royale isn't listening as he spins around and finishes with a discuss punch on Phoenix causing him to stumble back but not fall. He bends Phoenix back over and double under hooks the arms again. This time it's not a suplex attempt as he drops him head first with a DDT! Phoenix rolls over on his back as Jin Royale goes for the pin attempt once more.

One...

Two...

Thre...SHOULDER UP!

Jin Royale now shows frustration for possibly the first time. Phoenix is now the one who refuses to stay down. Jin Royale grabs Phoenix and attempts to get him into a better position as he signals that he's going to the top rope... possibly wanting to hit The Revolution 9! Jin Royale begins to climb the top rope but he unfortunately has misjudged how damaged Phoenix was. Phoenix is able to start picking himself up and seeing this Jin Royale on the top rope considers an option B. He finds an option B he likes and Jin Royale attempts of all things a flying cross body from the top rope! THE PHOENIX CATCHES HIM! It's Jin Royale's worst case scenario. The Phoenix shows his strength by lifting Jin Royale up on his shoulders and nailing the IMMOLATION! The crowd explodes at this as Jin Royale seems to be completely lifeless. The Phoenix looks over at Royale and sees he's not moving. This could be the end of the ma... wait... Phoenix doesn't go for the pin attempt! Instead he repositions Jin Royale and now he's going up to the top rope to try to end the match with his top rope finisher.

Caelan Tyler: Looks like The Phoenix is trying to show up Jin here.

Jake Steel: Hope he took notes from Draco earlier on how the move should really be done.

Jin Royale is lying helplessly on the mat not moving at all as Phoenix slowly, perhaps too slowly. He's making his way to the top rope. The 350 plus pound of a man is now on the top rope and after a few seconds pause to make sure he has his balance he launches himself in an attempt at the Flashfire and... MISSES! ROYALE ROLLS OUT OF THE WAY! The crowd is now stomping and clapping as it's once again anyone's ball game! The Phoenix is badly hurt from the sudden stop. Jin Royale is still trying to recover from the Immolation and has rolled even further away. The crowd is really into it as they can sense the end is near. But for whom? Phoenix is pushing himself up on his feet as Jin Royale is also staggering up. Both men are getting on their feet, trying to regain their bearings! Jin Royale is somehow able to get up on his feet just a split second quicker than Phoenix. Jin Royale's uses the fumes left in the tank and tries to hit a surprise Showstopper Superkick... but PHOENIX DUCKS IT! Jin Royale spins around and sees Phoenix charge in at him... Jin Royale ducks and rolls and Phoenix hits the corner. Phoenix backs out of the corner turns around and SHOWSTOPPER SUPERKICK! Jin Royale falls on top of Phoenix.

One...

Two...

THREE!!!!

The Bell sounds as the crowd applauds the efforts of both men but especially Jin Royale for his victory!

Zach King: The winner of this match, and the man who will be advancing in the Gold Rush tournament... JIN ROYALE!

Caelan Tyler: A missed Flashfire from The Phoenix gave Jin the opening he needed to pick up the victory here, but it was damn close.

Jake Steel: Apparently The Phoenix didn't take good enough notes when Draco was showing him what for.

PUNCTUATION POLICE

Jin Royale and the Phoenix have both left the ring, and the crowd is starting to quiet down after the hard fought match between those two.

Caelan Tyler: It looks like someone is making his way to the ring through the crowd.

Jake Steel: My guess is it is someone from the Punctuation Posse, we haven't seen anything from them yet tonight and that seems to be their shtick.

A hooded figure quickly makes his way through the crowd, as he gets closer to the ring, !!! appears on his shirt.

Caelan Tyler: It's the masked Exclamation guy. And he's alone.

!!! makes his way to the middle of the ring and grabs a microphone, the crowd is gives him a mixed reaction.

Caelan Tyler: Looks like he's going to speak, it's the first time someone other than ??? will be speaking from the Punctuation Posse.

!!! waits for the crowd to settle down, then begins to speak.

!!!: Okay. I'm sick of this, I get no respect here in the NLW. I figured if I joined ??? and I'd get noticed once he revealed himself, but he turned out to be a nobody. A waste of my time. All this has been a waste of my time. So tonight, I quit the Punctuations, tonight I'll reveal myself.

Caelan Tyler: I wonder who it will be.

Jake Steel: Sounds like a disgruntled worker. Seems real emotional and emo too, maybe that's why he's got the exclamations on his shirt.

!!! begins to take his mask off slowly. Once his mask is fully off, the crowd begins to boo.

Caelan Tyler: It's Eliminator!

Jake Steel: Wow. Another let down. Just another nobody under a mask.

Eliminator: You can boo me if you ant I don't care…

Caelan Tyler: I think someone just crept out from under the ring.

Jake Steel: Someone just showed up at the entrance ramp. I don't think Eliminator knows someone is behind him.

The crowd gives a mixed reaction to the man at the entrance Ramp, ???. More cheers than boos. Eliminator points to ???.

Eliminator: You told me you'd take me to the top.

??? shakes his head.

???: You can't quit on me. What do you think this is? Some sort of game here you can just walk away anytime you feel like? It ain't that easy.

Eliminator: Try and stop me, you haven't done anything but sneak up from behind and beat people up. No one's afraid of you.

Just as Eliminator finishes the sentence the guy behind him, &&&, grabs him from behind and puts him in a full nelson. Eliminator desperately tries to break free, but can not. ??? slowly walks down to the ring; halfway down the aisle, he stops and motions for someone to come from the back.

Caelan Tyler: What's going to happen here?

Jake Steel: Looks to be some sort of gang thing, where they have to jump Eliminator out.

$$$ appears at the entrance ramp driving a golf cart with 3 kegs of beer loaded in the back.

Caelan Tyler: Or maybe, they're throwing him a goodbye party, here comes the Money guy with keggers of Milwaukee's Best. The finest beer in Wisconsin.

Jake Steel: You've got to be kidding me. It tastes like piss water.

Caelan Tyler: How do you know what piss tastes like?

Jake Steel: ...It was a bet in college... DON'T JUDGE ME!

??? is in the ring and $$$ pulls up beside it. ??? delivers a punch to the stomach of Eliminator and the fans cheer. ??? reaches into his pocket and pulls out a pair of brass knuckles.

Caelan Tyler: Ah Oh. Here come the brass knuckles.

Jake Steel: I hope Eliminator has a good dentist.

??? swings and connects to the right side of Eliminator's face, blood begins to spew like a waterfall. &&& releases the full nelson and Eliminator crumbles to the floor. $$$ has attached a hose to each keg and slides into the ring with 3 nozzles in his hand. He passes one to ??? and one to &&&. Beer begins to spurt out and the 3 men begin to drench Eliminator in Milwaukee's Best. The crowd is going crazy

Caelan Tyler: Wow. This is ridiculous, they're giving him a beer bath. What if he gets drunk?

Jake Steel: Then he's a lucky man. Free beer, I'd never pass up a chance for free beer.

Caelan Tyler: Even that 'piss water'?

Jake Steel: ...Shut up.

The beer runs out as the last drips fall Eliminator. &&& stands him up, Eliminator begins to wobble and tries to walk but stumbles to the mat. The crowd is laughing. &&& stands him up again, and still Eliminator cannot hold his balance.

Caelan Tyler: Wow, that must be some good beer man, it hit fast.

Jake Steel: Either that or that punch by ??? still has him dazed. But look at the ring Caelan, it's a mess, just covered in beer.

Caelan Tyler: And cheese.

??? points up to the ceiling and descending from the roof slowly is a bucket of Wisconsin's finest cheese, steam is coming out of the bucket.

Jake Steel: I think the cheese is still hot. It's like one big nacho bucket.

Caelan Tyler: I hope they're not going to do what I think they're going to do. That hot cheese will burn.

The bucket stops just above where Eliminator is laying. ???, &&&, and $$$ slide out of the ring. Eliminator slowly begins to stir and then gets up. His head bumps into the bottom of the bucket, which causes the bucket to tip over and hot melted cheese goes all over Eliminator. He begins to scream and writhe on the mat in pain. The rest of the Punctuation Posse leave through the crowd as EMTs rush towards the ring to save Eliminator.

Caelan Tyler: Those could be some serious burns there. I doubt well be seeing Eliminator back in the ring anytime soon.

Jake Steel: And that's another wrestler that has been put out of commission by the punctuations. Jack Sullivan's going to be mad. One because his wrestlers are getting hurt, and two, they just covered the ring in beer and cheese. How are we supposed to have a NLW Championship match with a cheese covered ring? Aphrodisia could slip!

Caelan Tyler: Your concern for Eliminator's well-being is inspiring Jake.

Jake Steel: Damn right.

Caelan Tyler: I was being sarcastic...

...

Caelan Tyler: Again with these cryptic messages, this is the third time tonight.

Jake Steel: Well, at least it buys them some time to clean up the cheese mess in the ring.

The screen fades away from another cryptic and bizarre message to darkness

Caelan Tyler: What the hell is going on. Who the hell is leaving these messages? What does it mean?

The screen suddenly jumps back to life, snowing distortion blurring the screen before it clears to show the smirking face of The Black Phoenix lounging in a comfortable and homely chair with her black boots carelessly on a well kept coffee table.

Jake Steel: Ask and you shall receive ABUSE Caelan from the NLW's Queen of aggression.

Caelan Tyler: Wait a second... Isn't that JACK SULLIVAN’S HOUSE?!?

Jake Steel: Crazy psycho bitch broke into the boss's house!

The Black Phoenix waves from her illegally gained perch in Jack's home, she kicks her foot to the left sending a vase crashing to the floor.

The Black Phoenix: The castle keep is not defended well ladies and gentlemen. The epicenter of Jack's world, the bastion of his heart, so easily penetrated, violated and its secrets laid bare. Yet another façade in the life and times of Jack Sullivan. Another lie exposed, to show the man that you truly are.

The Black Phoenix leans to her left and suddenly has one of Jack's baby's soft toys in her hand and slowly begins to pull off its limbs, throwing them carelessly behind her as she speaks.

The Black Phoenix: You amateurish favoritism is beginning to reek and permeate everything you create. Your boys getting byes and free passes as you try to dislodge Society and prove them wrong. In the end just proving them right. To be honest Jack, I wouldn't have cared, but then you gave one of your boys a free pass to me.

The Black Phoenix smiles as she picks up an intimate piece of Joan's clothing and continues to speak as she twirls it from hand to hand.

The Black Phoenix: You could have called me Jack. I could have been on your side, you know I'm not a complicated girl. You show me the money and I would have gone to war for you and written your name in their blood. Not like those two pussies Iceman and fatboy Phoenix who can't seem to get the job done. I'm hurt Jack. I'm wounded. I was standing right here, a psychotic all ready to be primed and sent off like a missile into the hearts of your enemies.

The Black Phoenix snarls as she lights the item of clothing and throws into the empty fireplace.

The Black Phoenix: But instead you place me as a stepping stone for one of your precious boys. Consider me a landmine Jack...

The Black Phoenix stalks forward towards the camera and raises her foot.

The Black Phoenix: A landmine that's about to blow up in your face.

The firefly sneers and kicks the camera over as the screen goes to black.

Caelan Tyler: Black Phoenix is destroying Jack's stuff!

Jake Steel: Quick, someone call the cops!

THE ICE MAN VERSUS APHRODISIA JORDAN NLW CHAMPIONSHIP MATCH

Caelan Tyler: No doubt Jack's going to be leaving the arena to go handle that situation, but now it's time for our main event, with The Ice Man defending his NLW Championship against Aphrodisia Jordan.

Jake Steel: The Queen Bitch gets to reclaim her throne tonight!

Caelan Tyler: It's quite possible, and we have that extra X factor in the former three time NLW Champion 'Venom' Xavier Lux being the special guest referee.

Jake Steel: He better not screw her over.

A soft guitar riff begins to play causing the fans to get on their feet and look towards the entrance to see who it is that's coming out. As the riff plays on the lights slowly dim down. The arena becomes pitch black as the sound of a gun being loaded is heard. Then, a shot is fired and an explosion of green pyro occurs in the entrance. A banging beat gets started as the chorus of the song begins...

You never know...
I just might die tonight so lets get high tonight...
You might try to fight, but your mother will cry tonight...
Cig in my right hand cause you hold tight to life...
But you ain't a bright man...

The lights come back on, but only slightly. A glowing green light emits from the entrance as the smoke from this explosion slowly clears up to reveal 'Venom' Xavier Lux standing there. The fans erupt as the modified version of Cypress Hill's 'Never Know' continues to play...

You know I wrestle with the biggest hitters, crime committers...
And even some big bull shitters...
Never been a quitter Who had the jitters...
sine some bitter tasting minute...
I spit it for those who be it...
Cuz I'm like a soldier so committed to winning...

Venom walks down the ramp listening to the reaction from the crowd. Venom takes in the cheers for a moment before sliding under the bottom rope, into the ring. He stands in the middle of the ring, raises his arms and then crosses them, forming an X. The lights come back on fully now and some of the fans begin to chant: 'Toxic! Toxic!' He adjusts his referee shirt as the bell starts to ring.

Zach King: The following match is scheduled for one fall and is our main event for the NLW Championship! Making his way to the ring first, he is our special guest referee for tonight and is a former three time NLW Champion... 'VENOM' XAVIER LUX!

Caelan Tyler: Venom being out here does make things interesting, as him and The Ice Man were allies back in the last NLW run. I wonder if that will continue here.

Jake Steel: It better not, Aphrodisia deserves a fair shake, although I'm not sure how that bastard Venom will handle being out here knowing he's not getting a rematch for that belt he never lost.

Caelan Tyler: He's not a bastard Jake.

Jake Steel: Yes he is! Scorpion never married his mom!

Caelan Tyler: Ugh.

The image flashes briefly on the screen before the lights go out suddenly. Rapid riffs on a guitar begin to play. With every major beat where the other instruments join in, purple and white lights flash across the audience and the ring. After a few bars, the other instruments join in. The lead guitar takes off in a downward scale as 'Dead Man Walking' by Bloodsimple starts.

Buuuuuuuurn it down!

The song takes off in a flurry of cords and drum strokes as purple flames explode from the turnbuckles and around the stage. Sparks rain down from above the entrance way as the video begins, displaying images of Aphrodisia Jordan's triumphs and infamous bumps.

It's a production of fear.
It's all so sadistic, annihilistic. It's fucking vicious.
Its getting harder to feel, for all the people I kill.
No time to cry for those who died.
They say 'unjustified'.
Through these eyes...
I see the catastrophe lying in my wake.
Voices inside my head, shiver my spine.
I am not ashamed.

Imagery of black panthers and the Omega symbol flash in between the videos of Aphrodisia. A figure begins to appear behind the shower of sparks. She steps forward through the rain, followed by her manager, Joseph, who promptly lights her cigarette for her.

Look at me: I'm a dead man walking.
Put another nail in the coffin.
On the hill I see the bodies burning.
Buuuuuuuurn it down.

Aphrodisia, trailed by Joseph, starts down the ramp towards the ring. She seems unphased by the heavy boos from the crowds. Her eyes are focused on the ring as she continues her casual stroll downward.

Looking back at the fields, all the blood that I've spilt...
There's no emotion. Just destruction of another person.
Look at the blood on my hands. I feel no pain in my heart.
Take a Paxil. Take a Xanax.
It won't erase the memories.

Joseph stays outside of the ring as Aphrodisia climbs the stairs. Using the top rope, she springboards herself into the ring, landing deftly on her feet. She smoothes out her wife beater as she exhales a lungful of smoke through her nostrils. She begins to pace in the corner slowly as the music begins to fade out.

Through these I have seen such misery.
I am not afraid, and if I should die tonight,
That would be just fine. Lay me in my grave.
Look at me, I'm a dead man walking.
Put another nail in the coffin.
On a hill, I see the bodies burning.
Buuuuuuuuuurn it down.

Zach King: Introducing next, the challenger, from Baton Rouge, Louisiana... Weighing in at 168 pounds... She is a former NLW Champion... APHRODISIA JORDAN!

Caelan Tyler: It's interesting the history here, as Aphrodisia Jordan defeated The Phoenix to win the NLW Championship after Venom was forced to vacate it after injuring his leg in a car accident. She lost it to The Ice Man, and this is the rematch as guaranteed in her contract.

Jake Steel: She never should've lost to The Ice Man, and tonight she proves that.

Caelan Tyler: I don't know Jake, Ice Man was able to shrug off the challenge of Vincent Kane and Society before, he could easily deflect her challenge here.

'Second to None' By Styles of Beyond begins to sound over the arena loudspeakers and the lights begin to flicker slightly before going out completely. After a few moments there is a large explosion on the stage and the lights come back up, revealing The Ice Man in the middle of the stage, the NLW Championship hanging over his shoulder. He takes a moment to look around before walking towards the ring, shaking hands with fans along the way. Once he makes it to the ring he climbs in and stands in the center, raising his championship into the air as explosions erupt from all four turnbuckles.

Zach King: And her opponent, from Portland, Oregon... Weighing in at 275 pounds... He is the NLW Champion... THE ICE MAN!

Caelan Tyler: The Ice Man defeated Aphrodisia in a match that he received after Kevin Heat was injured by Fusion, and has done a lot since to prove his detractors wrong and show that he is a great competitor and champion in his own right.

Jake Steel: Psh, Aphrodisia will get back her title here and Ice Man will be written off as another failed champion in a book full of them.

Caelan Tyler: We will see Jake.

The bell rings, and Aphrodisia begins to circle around Ice Man, like a predator circling her prey. Ice Man keeps his gaze fixed on her, waiting for her to make the first move. She soon does, going after his leg with a clip. Ice Man sees it coming and is able to move out of the way, clubbing her across the back when she comes near. Aph slaps the mat in frustration as Ice Man raises his arms, the cheers of the crowd rising in volume as he does so.

Caelan Tyler: Looks like Ice Man is planning on playing some mind games with Aphrodisia here.

Caelan Tyler: Probably not the smartest thing he's ever done, hitting the proverbial bee hive with a stick like that.

Caelan Tyler: It'll be interesting to see how Aph responds, especially with all that's on her mind with her son.

Aph glances over to the announcers' table, almost as if she heard them before going back to the match, quickly tying into Ice Man. Ice Man easily overpowers her though, shoving her into the corner and pushing her against the turnbuckles. Venom tells him to break the hold, and Ice Man does as he's told, only for Aphrodisia to kick him in the gut. Aph quickly shifts out of the corner, delivering a knee to Ice Man to knock him back into the corner. The former champion then scurries up the ropes, delivering fists to Ice Man's forehead before taking her nails and starting to claw at his forehead, attempting to draw blood. Ice Man quickly shoves her off, rubbing his now beat-red forehead.

Caelan Tyler: Aph quickly going at Ice Man tooth and nail there, I wonder if that is her strategy here.

Jake Steel: I think that is her strategy in every match Cael, where have you been?

Caelan Tyler: True enough.

Undaunted, Aphrodisia continues her assault, delivering a sharp elbow to Ice Man's gut before grabbing his arm and pulling him over with an arm drag. Aph then locks in an arm bar, attempting to hyper-extend the champ's elbow to take his power game out of the equation. Aphrodisia twists his arm as she shifts to be perched over his back, using her elbow on her free arm to grind into Ice Man's shoulder. Ice Man shakes his head before pushing up off the mat, getting back to a vertical base and using his other arm to drive his fist into Aphrodisia's gut. Aph releases the hold, and the champ blasts her with a lariat.

Caelan Tyler: Aphrodisia deviated a bit from her normal strategy there, attempting to use an arm bar to cut out Ice Man's power game, but he was able to free himself and hit that lariat.

Jake Steel: Aph is a tough bitch, it'll take more than just a lariat to keep her down.

Aph quickly gets back to her feet, only to get taken back off of them with a hard shoulderblock. Jordan pops back up again, and Ice Man quickly scoops her up and body slams her to the mat before delivering a hard elbow drop across her sternum. Ice Man quickly hooks her leg:

1...

2...

No, Aphrodisia kicks out right as the referee counts two.

Caelan Tyler: Ice Man going for the quick pin here, but just as you said Jake, she's a tough chick.

Jake Steel: It took Ice Man a hell of a lot more to keep her down last time, I'm not sure why he thought that would be enough now.

Caelan Tyler: Couldn't tell you.

Ice Man quickly drags up Aphrodisia by her hair, whipping her into the ropes. Aph bounces off of them, but manages to duck under Ice Man's clothesline. She bounces off again, and Ice Man attempts a back body drop. Aphrodisia telegraphs it, and she quickly counters with a sunset flip:

1...

2...

No, Ice Man powers out. Aph pops back up to her feet before Ice Man can, and as soon as Ice Man gets to a vertical base Aph clips his knee, sending him back down to the mat. Aph immediately goes to work, bringing down her steel-toed boots on Ice's knee before dropping a knee across the back of his. Ice Man yells out in pain as Aph grabs his foot and pulls up, digging her knee into his own.

Caelan Tyler: Aph with a rather unique submission hold here, I think it's obvious that she learned her lesson after her last match with Ice Man and now she's attempting to keep him from using those high impact moves that he loves so much.

Jake Steel: Well no duh Cael, regardless of how tough Aph is, she's still giving up eight inches of height and over a hundred pounds in weight to The Ice Man, if he starts hitting those high impact moves then it's lights out for her, and I for one don't want to see that.

Caelan Tyler: Hard to argue there.

Aph continues to apply the pressure before shifting her body, entangling Ice man's leg with her own and arching back and grabbing Ice Man's head, pulling it back in a neckbreaker-style position. Ice Man struggles to free himself, slowing dragging himself to the ropes, where Venom tells Aphrodisia to break the hold. He starts the count, and Aphrodisia reluctantly releases her grip, not wanting to get disqualified. Deciding to use the ropes to her advantage, Aph slips through the middle rope onto the apron. She turns to face Ice Man, but he is able to deliver an elbow to her midsection, slowing her down as he stands back up on his hobbled knee. As he gets up though, Aph grabs his head and bites at his forehead, again attempting to draw blood. The crowd boos loudly as Venom yells at Aphrodisia to let Ice Man go. Having had enough of this, Ice Man shoves her hard, knocking her off the apron and sending her tumbling back into the protective barricade around the ring.

Caelan Tyler: Holy crap, Aph is like an animal now, just doing whatever she can to try to hurt Ice Man.

Jake Steel: Yes! Abuse! Keep it up Aphy and you will be Queen Bitch again!

Caelan Tyler: Regardless of how effective that type of offense might be, Aph doesn't look like she's having too much fun after slamming back-first into that guard rail.

1! Drip. Drip. Drops of blood begin to fall from Ice Man's forehead from the spot where Aph bit into his skull, and not the least bit amused he moves to the outside, pulling Aph up and nailing her with a right. 2! Ice Man, still hobbling on that knee, lifts Aph up and drops her stomach-first across the guard rail, the fans nearby cheering him as he does so. 3! Aph writhes in pain as Ice Man steps back a moment, using the apron to steady himself so he can catch his breath. 4! Ice Man grabs Aph, tossing her back into the ring before following suit. He quickly hooks her leg:

1...

2...

No! Aph manages to get her shoulder up!

Caelan Tyler: It looks like that knee is starting to really bother Ice Man, but he was able to use some of his trademark power to slow down Aph for the time being.

Jake Steel: 'For the time being' is the key phrase there, that bitch doesn't know when to say uncle, and she's going to be back on the war path soon enough.

Caelan Tyler: Perhaps so, but right now Ice Man has control and I don't see him being quick to give it up.

Ice Man pulls himself back to his feet before pulling up Aph and tossing her across the ring with an overhead belly to belly suplex. The force of the landing seems to have knocked the wind out of Aph, and she's left sucking air as Ice Man leans against the ropes, rubbing his knee. Ice Man rests for a few moments before going back to Aph, dragging her up before looking out to ringside. Ice Man then positions himself for another belly to belly, this one obviously intended to send her to the outside. Before he can grab her though, Aph springs back to life, quickly spinning around and leaping into the air, nailing Ice Man with the Purrfect Ending! Ice Man stumbles back from the impact, falling through the second and third ropes and landing on the mats outside the ring.

Caelan Tyler: Excellent counter there by Aph, I don't think I've ever seen anyone move that fast!

Jake Steel: She wants her gold back, and she's not about to let a big oaf like Ice Man stop her.

Caelan Tyler: She's really bringing it to the champ, who's been unable to really establish himself here due to that knee injury.

1! Outside the ring, Ice Man gets back to his feet, the small hole that Aph had opened up now a full-blown gash from the impact of the steel-toed boots across the wound. 2! Inside the ring, Aph bounces off the ropes, doing a cartwheel before leaping to the outside with her Leap of Faith move, sending both to the ground. 3! They both remain in a pile, neither individual moving. 4! Aph slowly starts to pull herself up, before sprinting back to the ring and climbing up onto the apron. 5! Aph slides into the ring before sliding back out, aiming to restart the count so she can continue her assault. By now Ice Man is back to his knees, trying to shake the cob webs and get back in this match.

Caelan Tyler: Big move by Aphrodisia there, and she was smart to restart the count as well.

Jake Steel: Obviously, you can't win the title via count out, and it's obvious that's what the she wants. Plus, if she won via count out then the abuse would stop, and no one wants that!

1! Aph positions herself on the apron, looking to dive onto Ice Man again when he gets back up. Ice Man gets to a vertical base, and Aph leaps off with a cross body. 2! Ice Man catches her in mid-air, holding her for a moment before charging to the nearby ring post, slamming her back first into it! 3! Ice Man slides back into the ring, looking to catch his breath and hoping Aphrodisia just stays down. 4! Aphrodisia lies on the floor, clutching her back and she struggles to get back up. 5! Aph is onto her knees, still favoring that back. 6! Aph gets up, and is able to slide into the ring, where Ice Man immediately greets her with several stomps to the back.

Caelan Tyler: Looks like the welcoming committee isn't so welcoming after all.

Jake Steel: Ugh.

Caelan Tyler: What?

Jake Steel: That pun is older than your mom.

Caelan Tyler: Hey not, my mom isn't that old.

Jake Steel: Yeah, that's what she told me last night too.

Ice Man pulls Aph to her feet, wrapping his arms around her midsection and quickly applying a bearhug, trying to capitalize on the back injury. Venom asks Aph if she wants to quit, but she flips him off and yells at him while struggling to free herself. Ice Man continues to squeeze, continuing to apply pressure to her back. Aph struggles for a little while more, before she's able to twist her body, raking Ice Man across his gash and wiping blood in his eyes. Ice Man releases the hold, unable to see as Venom berates Aph for her actions. She just shrugs it off as she delivers a boot to Ice Man's knee, dropping him down.

Caelan Tyler: Ice Man tried to take advantage of the opening he had received, but Aph was able to cut him down with some dirty tactics.

Jake Steel: Hey now, you might call them dirty but I call them fair. Look at the differences in size, Aph needs to take what she can get, and if you don't like it too damn bad Cael.

Caelan Tyler: Whatever Jake, I just think Aph should be able to carry herself in the ring without being so bloodthirsty.

Jake Steel: But where's the fun in that?

Aph kicks Ice Man in the midsection, yelling 'how do you like it?' before she drops down to try to apply her leg submission again. This time though, Ice is close enough to the ropes that he easily grabs them. And Venom yanks the challenger off of the injured champion. Aph fumes, yelling at Venom, when he tells her that another outburst like that will likely get her disqualified. Shaking her head in disgust, Aphrodisia goes to drag Ice Man to his feet when he blasts her with an uppercut. Aph stumbles back a bit before charging back, but Ice Man is able to spring up, nailing her with a monstrous clothesline.

Caelan Tyler: Big clothesline by Ice Man has both the champion and challenger down, but can Ice Man capitalize?

Jake Steel: If only Venom had stayed out of Aph's business you wouldn't even be asking that question.

Caelan Tyler: If Aph had followed the rules then Venom wouldn't need to get into Aph's face.

Jake Steel: See? I told you Venom was going to cause problems!

Caelan Tyler: ...*sighs*

'Ice Man' chants break out as the champ gets to his feet, Aph quickly following suit. The two begin to trade rights before Ice Man is able to hit a stiff forearm to cut Aphrodisia off. He then quickly lifts her up and slams her to the mat with a sit-out powerbomb, going for a pin:

1...

2...

3... No, Aph managed to get her shoulder up just in time!

Caelan Tyler: Close call there for Aph, who was caught completely off guard by that high impact move.

Jake Steel: Grr, she's letting that rat bastard Venom get in her head. Ignore him Aph!

Pulling Aph up, Ice Man quickly delivers a sidewalk slam. Ice then moves to the corner, climbing to the top turnbuckle and waiting for Aph to get back to her feet. She does, and he launches himself off, hitting a flipping neckbreaker that he calls the Hail Storm. The crowd cheers loudly as Ice Man motions across his throat that this match is about to be over. Just as Ice Man starts to drag Aph to her feet, a man comes charging down the entrance ramp, jumping onto the ring apron.

Caelan Tyler: That's TJ Arrington!

Caelan Tyler: WHOO! Arrington rules!

Venom turns his attention to Arrington, yelling at him to get the hell out of here. As he does so, Ice Man turns to see what the ruckus is about when Aphrodisia quickly delivers an uppercut where the sun doesn't shine. Ice Man doubles over in pain, leaving him helpless as Aphrodisia quickly hooks him and delivers the Cat's Cradle! Venom, tired of Arrington, decks him, sending Arrington off the apron to the floor before turning his attention back to the match.

Caelan Tyler: No! Not like this! Arrington's distraction allowed Aphrodisia to capitalize with a low blow!

Jake Steel: WHOO!

Aphrodisia, sensing that now is the time to strike, licks Ice Man's cheek before climbing to the top rope. Aph climbs onto the top turnbuckle, stretching out her arms and giving herself a bit of leverage by putting all her weight upon the ropes. The ropes send her up, forcing her into a 630 Splash that connects onto Ice Man's prone form. After a few moment, Aphrodisia quickly goes for the pin:

1...

2...

3!

Caelan Tyler: Aph just stole one!

The bell rings, and Aphrodisia quickly slides out of the ring, snatching the NLW Championship from ringside.

Zach King: Here is your winner... and NEEEEEW NLW Champion... APHRODISIA JORDAN!

Aphrodisia quickly makes her way up the ring, clutching the belt to her stomach as Society comes onto the ramp, surrounding her in celebration.

Jake Steel: YES! She's Queen Bitch once more!

Caelan Tyler: I can't believe it, Arrington just cost Ice Man the title! We're out of time here, see you next time folks!