'Game On' by Discipline begins to play as the words 'NLW' flash across the screen, followed by images of the last Uprising. Jason Spire, Plague and ??? all lasted till the end of a battle royal to secure a spot in the six pack challenge to determine the first Destiny Champion. In Gold Rush matches, The Jackrabbit, Jin Royale, Jason Stone and Draco all advanced, eliminating Piter Svoboda, The Phoenix, The Black Phoenix and PIC respectively. Josh Allen and Kevin Heat defeated Danny Boy Vegas and Brad Jackson of Society in a tag match while in our main event, Aphrodisia Jordan defeated The Ice Man with the assistance of TJ Arrington to reclaim the NLW Championship! The scene cuts to ringside, with Caelan Tyler and Jake Steel!

Caelan Tyler: Hello and welcome to Uprising! It's been a crazy week, with Uprising delayed due to Hurricane Ike.

Jake Steel: That's the last time Jack ever decides to use Royale Industries to store the ring equipment, that's for damn sure!

Caelan Tyler: Regardless, it's an action packed show, with the last of the round 2 Gold Rush matches taking place tonight.

Jake Steel: Damn skippy.

Caelan Tyler: We also have a triple threat between Draco, Frankie Wilde, and the debuting Taurus Black, and two title matches, with The phoenix defending his Legacy Championship against PIC and Fusion defending their tag titles against High Impact, Aphrodisia Jordan and Ice Man, and Jason Spire and Deacon Evers.

Jake Steel: Hopefully they can kick up the abuse quotient a bit here tonight.

Caelan Tyler: It should also be noted that starting tonight Uprising is moving to Fridays.

Jake Steel: Damnit, that totally ruins my weekly drinking binge with Triple M!

Caelan Tyler: Yeah, like he goes drinking with you.

Jake Steel: ...I can dream, can't I?

Caelan Tyler: Sure you can Jake, but that doesn't mean it'll hap--

'Power to Destroy' hits, and the crowd reaction is a bit mixed, as they recognize the theme, but are confused as to why it is playing. The music continues, and eventually EJ Slayer makes his way down the entrance ramp, wearing an NLW shirt while carrying an OWF one in his hand and a duffel bag in the other. Fans in the front row boo Slayer as he enters the ring, grabbing a microphone from a stage hand.

EJ Slayer: It's begun.

Slayer stops for a moment, holding up the t-shirt in his hand.

EJ Slayer: Some of you know me, some of you don't. That doesn't matter. What matters is what I represent, and that is the first shot in a war.

Slayer sets the OWF shirt on the mat before pulling out a can of spray paint from the duffel bag.

EJ Slayer: This shirt represents a company that has outlived its usefulness, a company that continues to lumber about like the dinosaur that it is, just waiting to be wiped from existence by a higher life form. NLW is that higher life form.

Slayer shakes the can before spraying the shirt. He quickly writes the word 'void' across the shirt.

EJ Slayer: This may not make sense to very many of you, but so little of what I do does anyways. The fact of the matter is, NLW is at war, and the OWF is about to become the casualty.

Slayer snatches up the shirt as 'Power to Destroy' plays again, with Slayer exiting the ring, leaving nothing but confusion in what wake.

Caelan Tyler: What was that all about?

Jake Steel: You heard him Cael, NLW versus OWF!

Caelan Tyler: Those were some strong words from EJ Slayer there, although I'm still confused as to what he's hoping to accomplish with that.

Jake Steel: It's going to be war Cael, and my money is on NLW.

Caelan Tyler: Well, I'm curious to see what the rest of the NLW has to say about all that, especially Jack.

The scene cuts outside, where a long...a REALLY long limo pulls up. It even appears to have a basketball hoop and backboard coming from one of the windows, and many of the rest have random stickers on them.

The limo comes to a stop, and the door opens, revealing Jin Royale, then Jason Stone...then the Jackrabbit...then Talon, all together. Talon and Jason Stone seem to be rather quiet and focused, though Jackrabbit is, well, the Jackrabbit, continuing to peer into the limo - evidently there's a TV in there bigger than the door.

Jin Royale: C'mon, you guys, relax. Whatever happens, happens. Let's just do what we came here to do, alright?

Very slowly, Talon and Jason seem to visibly relax and de-tense.

Jason Stone: ...Yeah, whatever you say, man. Let's just get this over with.

Jin Royale: Don't worry about it. C'mon, after this, drinks are on me. I'll even get the sippy cups with the rabbit ears.

At this, Jackrabbit nearly bolts out of the limo into the arena proper - he's followed rather easily by the rest of the group, as Jin slides on his trademark Ray-Bans.

Caelan Tyler: Well Explicit Content just arrived, and it looks like they're concerned over the main event.

Jake Steel: Why shouldn't they be? Aph is gonna make herself a double champ here tonight!

Caelan Tyler: Well she's certainly got her work cut out for her, but she does have a solid partner for trying to overcome the odds.

Caelan Tyler: Talon got here just in time, as his match starts right now.

Jake Steel: This is going to be a slaughter... Poor Harvey...

Caelan Tyler: Are you showing sympathy towards Harvey?!

Jake Steel: No, to his HMO.

The arena lights go dim, and a hush falls over the crowd. A voice squeaks out over the quietness. 'I am the man!' It's Harvey Danger. He quickly coughs and now in a false manly voice 'I AM THE MAN!' A few fans stand to clap and cheer; some whip out their phones and begin texting out of boredom. Most of the fans head for the restroom or concession stand. The lights begin to brighten and Harvey Danger trips over the threshold coming through the curtain. He turns and yells something at no one in particular and heads for the ring as the opening chords of 'No Rain' by Blind Melon start up. Harvey bobs and walks in time with its' corny upbeat tune. He rolls under the ring and waves at the crowd before sulking off to his corner.

Zach King: Our opening contest of Uprising is a Gold Rush Second Round match and is scheduled for one fall! Introducing first, from New York, New York... Weighing in at 215 pounds... HARVEY DANGER!

Caelan Tyler: Harvey Danger reached this point by virtue of his victory over TJ Arrington in the first round.

Jake Steel: With help! He's not going to get any tonight, Caelan!

The crowd cheers loudly and then 'I Stand Alone' by Godsmack blares across the arena. There's complete black out, then from behind each turnbuckle a spotlight shine into the center of the ring. On the last is Talon, arms out-stretched to his sides, with two lengths of lead piping in his hands. After a moment's pause, Talon jumps into the ring, and paces around, throwing his piping to the turnbuckle.

Zach King: His opponent, standing at 6 foot 8 inches... Weighing in at 280 Pounds... He is one-half of the NLW Tag Team Champions...TALON!

Caelan Tyler: As one of the tag champions, Talon received a bye into the second round of the tournament.

Jake Steel: And he got probably the easiest draw in the bunch! If Talon loses to Harvey he should surrender his half of the Tag belts and retire in shame!

The bell sounds to get our opening contest of the night underway. A quick tie-up is broken with Talon pushing Danger back into the corner, and breaking at the ref's command. It's a clean break as Talon backs towards the center of the ring. Harvey comes out of the corner, another tie-up, and Danger slaps on a side headlock. Talon is quick to shove Danger into the ropes, and knock him down with a shoulder block. He goes for the quick cover, but only nets a two.

Caelan Tyler: You have to think that Talon wants to get this match done quickly, as he's scheduled to defend the Tag Team Championship later tonight.

Jake Steel: So you mean this jobberfest won't take as long? I might be able to live with that.

The Tag Champion pulls Danger to his feet and whips him into the ropes again, but this time Danger hangs on to the ropes and slides to the outside. Talon pauses for a moment and then gives chase, prompting Danger to run around the ring. As they turn the corner past the announcers' table, however, Harvey trips over his own feet and falls onto the mats. The fans in the front row on that side laugh at him as Talon comes around, picks up the self-proclaimed 'White Knight' of NLW, and throws him back into the ring before following himself. Talon is quick to his feet and charges across the ring, coming off the ropes for some high-impact move but Danger catches him coming in with a dropkick to the mush of Talon!

Caelan Tyler: Harvey's not going to go so quietly, it seems like.

Jake Steel: It's just a matter of time, Caelan...

Harvey is back up, putting the boots to Talon for a brief moment before pulling him back to his feet and maneuvering him into the corner. Several right hands find their mark before Harvey tries a whip across the ring...and fails miserably. He tries again, with the same result. Before Danger can try a third time, Talon pulls Harvey forward and hits him with a short-arm clothesline. Again, Talon goes for a quick cover, but Harvey is too close to the ropes and gets a foot on the rope before the count of two.

Caelan Tyler: Talon's haste to end the match cost him there; great ring awareness by Harvey to get a foot on the rope.

Jake Steel: You call it ring awareness, I call it being a coward!

The Enigmatic One goes to lift Danger to his feet, but Harvey drops low, hitting a surprise jawbreaker on Talon to stun him for a moment. Deciding to take a page from Talon's book, Harvey moves into a quick cover, but only nets two. Undaunted, Danger gets to his feet, waits for Talon to get to his, and delivers a textbook running bulldog! Another cover by Danger, only netting a two yet again as Talon gets the shoulder up.

Caelan Tyler: Harvey getting a couple of near-falls there, but Talon still has too much in him at the moment.

Jake Steel: This match still isn't over yet? Damn. And the concession stands are still too packed right now anyway.

Caelan Tyler: ...

The frustration is not really showing on Harvey's face yet as he comes off the ropes and drops an elbow to the back of Talon. He then looks for a camel clutch, but cannot keep his balance to sit on Talon's back and falls over. This makes him a bit upset as the camera can see him grit his teeth before Danger walks back to where his opponent is and stomps at the back of The Enigmatic One. As Talon reaches the ropes to pull himself up, Harvey backs away for a moment before rushing back in, looking to clip the knee of Talon. The Tag champ catches him with a back elbow before Danger can go low, however, and then drops Harvey with a wicked clothesline that sends the smaller man spinning in mid-air!

Caelan Tyler: Harvey got turned inside-out by that hard clothesline! What impact by Talon!

Jake Steel: That livened up this snoozefest just a bit.

Talon pauses for a few moments, gathering his wits about him. Then, focused once more, he hauls Danger to his feet, and hits with a scoop slam. Instead of going for a cover, Talon again hauls Harvey to his feet, and follows it up with a fallaway slam. Harvey ends up three-quarters of the way across the ring, as Talon leisurely makes his way into the cover. He only gets two, though, as Harvey gets the left shoulder up. Talon gets back to his feet, pulls Danger up to his, and whips him hard into the turnbuckles. Talon charges in for a clothesline, but Harvey manages to get out of the way and Talon crashes sternum-first into the corner. Danger comes from behind with a school boy roll up!

1

2

Two and a half as Talon frees the right shoulder!

Caelan Tyler: And Danger almost gets Talon off the miscue!

Jake Steel:You never win a match off something that stupid, Caelan.

Caelan Tyler: But--

Jake Steel: NEVER!

Harvey seems to have the momentum on his side as Talon is a bit slow to get to his feet. Danger comes over, grabs the head of Talon, and hits a hangman's neckbreaker! He doesn't go for the cover, electing instead to take a chance and head to the middle rope. He measures Talon up and leaps, looking to drive an elbow home, but gets nothing but mat as Talon rolls out of harm's way! The Tag Champion is already making his way to his feet as Danger tries to recover.

Caelan Tyler: Harvey misses with the elbow; is that all Talon needs to take control of the match?

Jake Steel: God, I hope so. I'm bored to tears watching this match!

The intensity on Talon's face speaks for itself as he pulls Harvey to his feet and whips him across the ring. On the rebound, Talon catches Harvey and delivers a thunderous powerslam that shakes the ring. Danger is left writhing in pain, holding his back as Talon gets to his feet, staring down at the smaller competitor.

Caelan Tyler: I don't think I like the look on Talon's face, Jake. He seems to mean business now!

Jake Steel: Good, maybe this damn match can end soon.

The Enigmatic One knows he has the advantage now, as he drags Harvey back up again. Danger is almost dead weight as Talon kicks him in the gut, and goes to the ropes. He looks for Bloody Talons, but Harvey has dropped to the mat, one hand held to his back. Talon moves in to get him back up, but Harvey reaches up and gets Talon in a small package!

1!

2!

Kickout at two and a half!

The look on Talon's face almost screams 'murder/death/kill' as he forcibly brings Harvey to his feet and kicks him in the gut a second time. Talon comes off the ropes, and this time the Bloody Talons connects, as Harvey drops like a sack of potatoes.

Caelan Tyler: Is this the beginning of the end for Harvey Danger?

Kicking Harvey over onto his back, Talon exits the ring and heads upstairs, looking to finish the match and get some rest before his tag title defense later on. He gets to the top rope, pauses for a moment, and leaps off, connecting squarely with Death From Above! Talon remains in the cover, hooking the far leg:

1!

2!

3!

The bell sounds as 'I Stand Alone' hits the speakers again.

Zach King: Here is your winner, advancing to the quarterfinals of the Gold Rush Tournament... TALON!

Caelan Tyler: And Talon advances! He's no doubt going to be spending the rest of his evening getting ready for the tag match.

Jake Steel: He's going to need all the help he can get.

Caelan Tyler: Well, if any competitor can pull off two matches in one night, it's a guy like Talon, who does his best to stay in top shape.

Jake Steel: Good luck to him there, he's gonna be facing off with the champ, and I for one don't like his chances.

Caelan Tyler: Well, we'll see.

The camera feed switches to backstage once again, and focuses on one door in particular. The name plate beside the door reads Aphrodisia Jordan and Bacon. Jackson stands outside that door, his features troubled as he paces.

Brad Jackson: This is stupid... so stupid. Get a grip, old man... just... do it.

Heaving a sigh, he reaches for the knob, and turns it, shouldering open the door and slipping through. One hand is held behind his back.

Brad Jackson: Aph? Hey... I got-

Absolute silence answers his voice, and he realizes pretty quick that the room is empty.

Brad Jackson: Aw shit.

He sits down heavily on the couch, and rests the green cellophane wrapped bundle across his lap. Flowers, unmistakably a nice bouquet of red roses visible through the sheer wrapping. A sigh escapes his lips as he lets his head hang.

Brad Jackson: I knew it was stupid.

The cool press of a snout against his hand startles him, and he looks down to find Bacon staring up at him with those oddly intelligent piggy eyes. Absently, Jackson reaches down and rubs behind the pig's ears, getting a contented grunt from Bacon for his trouble.

Brad Jackson: Hey buddy. Where's Aph?

Bacon grunts, almost sadly, and pushes against Jackson's leg as though demanding more attention.

Brad Jackson: Yeah, I know, buddy. I wish she was here too. I kinda... had something I wanted to say to her. Guess... the moment's gone now.

Snuffling happily, Bacon pushes his snout against the cellophane, making it crinkle in the silence.

Brad Jackson: Does she even like flowers?

Bacon didn't reply, instead giving himself over to Jackson as the man bends over and picks him up, settling him on the couch beside him. Both man and beast look mournfully at the empty room for a moment before Jackson breaks the silence again.

Brad Jackson: You're right, buddy. She doesn't want flowers... least of all from me.

With another sigh, he pulls himself to his feet, and crosses the room, pausing only to toss the flowers in the trash can beside the door. He looks back at Bacon, and puts a finger to his lips.

Brad Jackson: Mum's the word, buddy. Don't tell her I was here, ok?

The pig snorts, and Jackson flashes a weary smile before slipping back out into the hallway, leaving behind nothing but the scent of roses in the room. Bacon launches himself off the couch, and immediately charges for the trash bin. The resulting crash is loud, but the pig's head is hard, and the aluminum can is no match as it topples. Happily, he tears into the flowers, munching away at the soft red petals. A snack fit for a king!

Caelan Tyler: Well that was a bit unexpected, although I question where Jackson's focus is.

Jake Steel: EMO!

Caelan Tyler: Anyways, his focus really should be on his match with Dillon Bourne tonight so he can advance in the Gold Rush tournament.

Jake Steel: He should crush Dillon Bourne Cael, Jackson's just in a different league than that kid.

Caelan Tyler: Well, I think Bourne can keep up provided he gets back his focus, he's seems to have lost hat the past few shows.

The scene cuts to the backstage area, more precisely Jack Sullivan's temporary office in the Omaha Civic Auditorium. The door to the office is slightly open as Jack Sullivan walks back toward his office. Jack Sullivan wasn't a stupid man, he knew people wanted to make the boss pay, but at the same time he wasn't a coward either. Sullivan didn't need anyone to fight his battles and that is why he opened the door and stepped into his office.

Jack Sullivan: What are you doing here?

Sitting behind Jack Sullivan's desk in the high backed leather chair is none other than “The Hellacious One” Draco. His feet up on the desk with heels grinding into some paperwork with the official stamp of NLW on them. Draco had a dart in his hand and a smirk from ear to ear.

Draco: Don't we have an open door policy, Sacky boy?

Jack Sullivan: No. Out.

Draco: I was here to re-open our discussion from last week.

Draco spins the dart in his hand while looking over at Jack Sullivan. Sullivan was starting to get irritated at the presence of one of the major thorns he has had to endure since his days in ICWF.

Jack Sullivan: What about it?

Draco: With my little act of...let's call it vigilantism...one of the members of Society is apparently calling it quits. Danny Boy Vegas is turning tail and running once I got involved in his little pissing contest with Phoenix. I think I deserve a thank you, don't you?

Jack Sullivan: Yes, I'm going to congratulate you for running talent out of my company. I definitely enjoy seeing that.

Shaking his head, Draco puts both feet on the ground. Obviously his nice guy routine didn't go over so well.

Draco: Ok, you caught me with my hand in the cookie jar. I was trying to get my re-match clause signed and slated. Guess I have to go back to my asshole-ish ways.

Jack Sullivan: Your re-match clause? Did you actually read your damn contract? There is no rematch clause. PIC got the shot tonight, you just go enjoy facing the new guys until I decide you deserve a chance to face someone on my radar.

Draco slowly stands up doing his best to get eye to eye with Jack Sullivan while trying not to spit because of the words he just heard. The two are only separated by Sullivan's desk. Draco twirls the dart in his hand for a moment the smirk slowly disappearing from his face.

Draco: I guess since I have nothing to lose this will make thing so much easier.

Jack Sullivan: Have fun jerking the curtain. It suits you.

Draco: Looks like the lines are drawn.

Before moving from behind Jack Sullivan's desk, Draco throws the dart straight up into the drop ceiling. Sullivan's eyes follow the dart seeing it stick into a picture of not only Jack Sullivan's face, but Society's logo as well.

Draco: You did ask for me to have what is best for NLW in mind.

Jack Sullivan: ...Out!

With a small chuckle Draco leaves Jack Sullivan's make shift office. Being his usual self, Draco leaves the door wide open.

Caelan Tyler: Looks like Draco continues to get into it with Jack Sullivan, although I don't think that strategy has been benefiting him any yet.

Jake Steel: Nope! Jack's gonna make Draco's career into a total joke if he doesn't learn to keep his mouth shut.

Caelan Tyler: Although that does bring up a good point, DBV has been released from his NLW contract.

Jake Steel: Damn shame, I liked him.

'Rawr – Bring Me The Horizon' starts to play, and after five seconds Frankie Wilde runs out to the ramp, arms raised. He then proceeds to sprint down the ramp giving out high fives and slides into the ring, leaps up onto the turnbuckle runs along the rope to the turnbuckle on the right of him then back-flips out into the ring. He raises his arm once more as the music cuts out.

Zach King: The following is a triple threat match and is scheduled for one fall! Introducing first, from San Diego, California... Weighing in at 175 pounds... 'THE FLYER' FRANKIE WILDE!

Caelan Tyler: Frankie looking to get some momentum going here after falling short in the Destiny Qualifier battle royal last Uprising.

Jake Steel: If he's looking for momentum he picked the wrong match to try to gain it in.

The boos start as the first guitar chords hit, the music picks up as Taurus swaggers onto the ramp. As the lyrics kick in Taurus strolls to the ring, with Saci in tow stopping the fans from touching greatness.

Zach King: And the next competitor in the match, from Sao Paulo, Brazil... Weighing in at 257 pounds... TAURUS 'TORO' BLACK!

Black stops at the top of the steps to soak in Manson's vocals.

As the chorus repeats he steps through the ropes and stares down Frankie.

Caelan Tyler: This is Taurus Black's debut match, and the Brazilian brawler looks fired up for it.

Jake Steel: We'll see how he does, as long as he brings the abuse I'll approve.

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.

During the lyrics even more smoke and gun fire had filled the stage. A silhouette appeared in the center of it all. No features can be made out through the thick fog and smoke at the entrance way. The figure's head is bowed as the bullets continue to whizz by his head getting closer and closer.

The music continues and the screen above the entrance way comes to life with what looks to be a piece of glass. The glass cracks and spiderwebs, but doesn't break. The cracks spell out the next lyric that the singer belts out.

Moving forward through the fog and all its hazards, the figure slowly lifts his head. The figure can be seen with a hooded sleeveless black T-shirt and a pair of black jeans. His chest is bare and gives us the clue to his identity. The sickening pale white scars spelling out no hope mark him as 'The Hellacious One' Draco. He walks through the fog managing to avoid harm from the gun fire trading back and forth.

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: And their opponent, from Whitesboro, New York... Weighing in at 204 pounds... 'THE HELLACIOUS ONE' DRACO!

Caelan Tyler: This match is apparently punishment to Draco for his antics last Uprising, and it's going to be tough for him to focus on this knowing that next Uprising he has a Gold Rush match against The Jackrabbit.

Jake Steel: Wait, he's gotta face that crazy guy? Damn Draco is really getting punished by Jack!

The bell rings and we're off - Black and Wilde jostle for position, as if about to lock up...then they both turn on Draco, pounding him with rights.

Caelan Tyler: Looks like the two newcomers to NLW had the same idea: take out the vet.

Jake Steel: Which makes sense, Draco has that history of escaping by the skin of his teeth, so bring the abuse to him early and quickly!

It seems like the tone for the match's already set; the two rookies begin to double-team the already well past proven Draco mercilessly. Wilde Irish Whips Draco into the ropes and connects with a dropkick...Black follows up with a fist drop and a flurry of punches as Wilde goes to the ropes extremely early in this match...

Black pulls Draco up by the hair...Draco grabs Black's belt and pulls, using the momentum to sling him shoulder first between the very turnbuckles Wilde's climbing, cause Frankie to fall to the ring below.

Caelan Tyler: Draco showing his ring experience, using one move to take down both of his opponents. The question is whether or not he'll be able to capitalize quickly on this.

Jake Steel: Come on, I want to see more abuse on someone than that!

Draco pounces on Black, dragging him up and performing a quick neckbreaker...then another, going for the pin!

1!

2!

No good! Black gets the shoulder up!

Caelan Tyler: Draco using some quick neckbreakers to try to put down the NLW rookie, but Black able to kick out.

Wilde slides back into the ring, too late to interrupt the count, but luckily for him, Black kicked out anyway! He crouches, waiting for an opening...

...And he gets it as Draco turns around after getting up, a Wilde dropkick finding its mark on the Hellacious One's face! Wilde's all over Draco with a flurry of elbowdrops, one after another, while Black collects himself. Wilde nabs Draco in a front face lock before jumping in place, spinning and nailing the former Legacy champion with a spinning DDT! Black nearly INSTANTLY pounces on Wilde afterward, a bevy of kicks and punches, before grabbing him by the throat and lifting him up, connecting with a powerful double-armed chokeslam! Hoping to capitalize on the speed of his attacks, he goes for the cover!

1!

A VICIOUS kick to the midsection by Draco breaks the count!

Caelan Tyler: Black trying to take out the smaller of his two opponents there, but Draco wasn't going to have any part of that.

Jake Steel: You know, I bet Jack just wants to see Draco lose, had he stayed down he might've gotten the owner off his back.

Caelan Tyler: You know that's not how Draco does things Jake.

Jake Steel: No, because that would make sense.

Draco pulls Black up with a few knees before landing a quick DDT...oddly, he keeps the front facelock on, pulling Black up...and he kicks his leg to flip-over DDT the rookie, before rolling off...into a Wilde dropkick to the head! Wilde pulls Draco up and connects with a hurricanrana, hooking the leg for the pin!

1!

2!

Kickout by Draco!
Caelan Tyler: Frankie trying to pick up the pace here, although I'm not sure the wisdom of that since Draco is also known to wrestle at a fast pace.

Jake Steel: A rookie do something that isn't smart? Who knew?

Frankie helps Draco to his feet, bouncing off the ropes and going for a flying forearm. Draco ducks under it, and Frankie damn near gets his head taken off by a big boot from Black, who has quite a pissed off look on his face. Draco turns around, and Black instantly begins to pepper him with stiff forearms before grabbing Draco with a short arm and delivering a savage headbutt! Draco bounces back up, and Black grabs him with an over the shoulder arm drag, immediately applying an armbar.

Caelan Tyler: Black has regained control of the match, and now he's working over Draco with that armbar.

Jake Steel: Break the arm! Draco needs to learn his place!

Caelan Tyler: Well if he's going to make Draco tap he better do it before Frankie comes to.

Black continues to crank on the armbar when Frankie kicks him in the side of the head. Black releases the hold, and Draco clutches at his arm as Black stands up, getting blasted with a dropkick from Frankie! Frankie quickly follows that up with a spinning back kick, catching Black in the gut and sending him tumbling back through the ropes and to the outside. Frankie then quickly drops a leg on Draco before going for a quick pin.

1...

No! Draco gets his shoulder up quickly!

Caelan Tyler: Frankie trying to turn that fast paced offense into a win here but hasn't had any luck so far.

Jake Steel: Damn! Draco just doesn't get it.

Regardless of whether or not Draco 'gets' it, he's certainly feeling the effects of Frankie's offense as The Flyer measures his prey. Draco gets to his knees, and Frankie makes his move, delivering a shining wizard that catches the former Legacy Champion right in the kisser! Frankie quickly goes for the pin again:

1...

2...

No! Shoulder up!

Caelan Tyler: Frankie's gotta be getting frustrated, he just keeps throwing moves at Draco but the resilience of the former Legacy champion is clear.

Jake Steel: Why are we wasting our time on a FAIL reel? Just pin him already!

Frustrated, Frankie pulls Draco to his feet, only to catch a charging elbow from Taurus Black, who's making his presence in the match felt once again. Black quickly grabs Frankie when the smaller man pops back up, delivering Vaca Disparado! Frankie falls to the mat from the impact, and Black quickly starts to put the boots to Draco, continuing the wearing down of the veteran that Frankie had started.

Caelan Tyler: Now it's Black's turn to work over Draco, who just can't seem to catch his breath here.

Jake Steel: If these new guys are giving him these kinds of problems, then how the hell is he gonna beat someone like the Jackrabbit?

Caelan Tyler: No idea...

Draco gets to his feet, and him and Black begin to trade rights, with Draco eventually getting the upper hand with a well-placed European uppercut! Black stumbles back, and Draco blasts him with a superkick! With both his opponents down, Draco falls back onto the ropes, catching his breath instead of capitalizing on the situation. Frankie gets back to his feet, and Draco quickly bounces off of the ropes, measuring Frankie before delivering his trademark 'sick kick'! Draco quickly goes for the pin.

1...

2...

NO! Taurus Black is just barely able to break up the pin attempt in time!

Caelan Tyler: Close one there for Draco, he almost had the high flying rookie.

Jake Steel: As much as I don't care for Draco for what he's been doing to Jack, I must say that move is pretty damn cool.

Caelan Tyler: Looks painful as hell.

Black quickly pulls Draco to his feet, delivering a knee to his gut before hooking him and drilling him with a snap suplex. Black pops back up, dragging Draco up and hitting a side belly to belly suplex, the crowd booing as Black has momentum solidly in his favor. Pulling Draco up, Black yells that it's over before hitting The Black Death tiger driver! Black quickly goes for the pin!

Caelan Tyler: The Black Death! This could be it!

Jake Steel: Yes! Finally!

1...

2...

3... NO, Frankie pulls Black off of Draco!

Caelan Tyler: Frankie just saved the match for himself!

Jake Steel: BOOOO!

Black turns his attention to Frankie, who quickly gives him a kick to the gut and delivers an implant DDT! Wilde quickly climbs to the top rope, steadying himself on the top before leaping off to hit Adagio! Wilde lies prone for a few moments, the impact taking a lot out of him as well as Black before moving for the cover:

1...

2...

Caelan Tyler: This could be it!

It's not though, as Draco grabs Frankie's leg and pulls him off, quickly applying an ankle lock and then locking in a leg grapevine as well!

Caelan Tyler: Draco has the Blaze of Glory locked in on Frankie!

Jake Steel: What? NO!

Frankie yells out in pain as he tries to make it to the ropes, but Draco keeps him centered in the middle of the ring, cranking as hard as he can on Frankie's ankle. Frankie then looks over to Black, who is still out from Adagio. Frankie tries to hold on for a few moments, but quickly has no choice but to tap.

Zach King: Here is your winner... 'THE HELLACIOUS ONE' DRACO!

Caelan Tyler: A hard fought victory for Draco there, with the two newcomers showing they weren't out of place in the ring with someone like Draco.

Jake Steel: Bah, dumb luck strikes again.

Caelan Tyler: It's amazing how quickly you turn on people Jake.

Jake Steel: Lack of respect upsets me.

Caelan Tyler: Right....

Caelan Tyler: Well now Draco will need to turn his attention to The Jackrabbit, who he will be facing next Uprising in the Gold Rush tournament quarterfinals.

Jake Steel: Maybe that damn JR will knock some sense into Draco for not obeying the boss.

The view displayed by the camera is that of the back of Aph's head. She's walking quickly, clearly disinterested in being filmed. In one hand, she holds a cigarette and a cup of coffee, and the other holds a grocery bag filled with junk food. The cameraman hurries his paces in order to get in front of Aph. With a few free fingers, she twists open the locker room door and gasps faintly. Across the floor are green sticks with Bacon lying in the middle of them all on his side. The pig is snoring loudly with a thick trail of drool pooling under him.

Aphrodisia Jordan: Bacon!

The pig jerks halfway up before slumping back down with a grunt. Aph sighs as she puts down her thighs and picks Bacon up, glaring at him. Bacon's ear pin against his head as he whimpers. Aph sighs and holds the piglet under her arm while surveying the mess he caused. Her eyes finally focus on the dented garbage can, the green cellophane drawing her attention. She frowns as she moves to the can. She pulled out the cellophane and a small card dropped from it. It began to all make sense as The Warheart scoops up the card and eyeballs it. The cameraman positions the camera so it peeks over Aph's shoulder to read the card.

The camera moves again to show Aph reading over the sentiment a few times. Finally, she sighs and rubs the middle of her forehead hard to fight off a headache.

Aphrodisia Jordan: ...damn it...

Caelan Tyler: Well it looks like the champ found what Jackson left in her locker room.

Jake Steel: Save this for after the show, this is Uprising, not 90210!

Caelan Tyler: Well regardless of how that gets resolved, I hope they both focus on their respective matches tonight.

Jake Steel: Would be the wise thing to do...

The camera switches to show the face of NLW's resident interviewer, a small smile on her face as she focuses on the camera.

Charisma Finch: Ladies and gentlemen, joining me once again at this time, he is the reigning NLW Legacy Champion... The Phoenix.

Phoenix enters from the right of the camera shot, already in his ring gear for the main event. The Legacy title belt is hanging on his left shoulder (closest to the camera), while a black cloth of some kind is on his right.

Charisma Finch: I was told that you wanted to say something. The floor is yours, champ.

The Phoenix: Thanks, Charisma. It's come to my attention that there's still a lot of people around here who think that, despite winning this belt two months ago, I'm still nothing more than a fluke. You know what, though? That's fine. They can say what they want to say. The fact of the matter is that despite what one asshole at ringside might say--I'm not talking about you, Caelan; we're cool--I am the Legacy champion. Tonight's just going to prove that, regardless of what has transpired in my last two matches, I am still the champ, and I am not to be underestimated by anyone.

Charisma Finch: What about the comments made last Uprising by Draco, and his use of your trademark moves in his match not just last Uprising, but this one as well?

The Phoenix: I've two things to say about that. The first is that he must be having some sort of identity crisis. Apparently being choked out damaged his brain or something--not like there's a whole lot to damage to begin with. See, he can try to emulate me all he wants. The fact is, I've proved that I can beat him, and Mr. Indestructible refuses to believe it. Reality sucks, eh, Draco?

Charisma Finch: And the second?

The Phoenix: Oh, yes. A picture says a thousand words. That being said...

The Phoenix pulls the cloth off of his shoulder and unfolds it. It turns out to be the newest item in the NLW e-Shop. Instead of describing it, well...just take a look.



The Phoenix: Hey, Jake Steel...hail to the King, baby! And Draco, isn't payback just a bitch? On second thought...don't answer that. Don't want you to choke on your words, after all.

The Phoenix chuckles deeply as the camera cuts to ringside.

Caelan Tyler: So, what do you think of that shirt Jake?

Jake Steel: If anyone else had made it I'd like it...

Caelan Tyler: Regardless of whether or not you like the guy who made the shirt Jake, is the fact that The Phoenix did beat Draco for the Legacy title.

Caelan Tyler: Total fluke, and Draco would easily get it back, provided he stops pissing off the boss.

Caelan Tyler: Well, speaking of the Legacy Championship, the next match involves the original Legacy Champion.

Zach King: Our next contest is a Second Round match in the Gold Rush Tournament, and is scheduled for one fall!

'Duality' by Slipknot begins to play, the lights dropping low until the main part of the song hits. Spotlights shine down onto the center of the stage, where Archangel stands, head high, staring into the lights. He slowly looks away, before marching down to the ring and sliding under the ropes.

Zach King: Introducing first, from Detroit, Michigan... Weighing in at 310 pounds... this is ARCHANGEL!

Caelan Tyler: Eliminator was Archangel's victim in the first round of the tournament. But Archangel's got his hands full with an NLW Original tonight.

Jake Steel: Ain't no way he wins tonight, Caelan. No way whatsoever!

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

Caelan Tyler: Kevin Heat advances here tonight!

Jake Steel: Told you Cael!

Caelan Tyler: Looks like he'll be facing Talon next Uprising in the Gold Rush quarterfinal.

Jake Steel: Heat will just go 'NUKLEAR!' on Talon and then he'll advance no problem.

Caelan Tyler: Right...

There is a trail of M&Ms backstage that bends around the corner of the hall. The sound of snorting and grunting can be heard as Bacon's head appears around the corner and he inhales the candies. The trail of candy leads to an unmarked locker room. Bacon eats the last candy by the door and begins to bump its head into the door.

Jake Steel: An unmarked locker room?

Caelan Tyler: Yeah that’s weird. I don't think that candy is good for the pig.

Jake Steel: Pigs eat slop, anything is good for them.

The door creaks open slowly and Bacon rushes in, the door slams shut behind the pig. Sounds of rustling and grunting and snorting and screaming are heard from outside the locker room.

Jake Steel: What the hell is going on in there? Sounds like Bacon is running wild in there.

Caelan Tyler: Did you just hear that?

Jake Steel: It sounded like a squeal. A loud painful squeal.

Caelan Tyler: It sounded human though. I wonder if we can try and get the cameraman in there.

The camera shakes to signify a 'NO'. But slowly a hand can be seen pushing the door open. There is a pool of blood in the middle of the room and to the right, Bacon is entrapped inside a cage. A hand comes from the side and covers the camera lens. The camera is snatched away and the screen goes black. But there is still audio as this time the pig can be heard squealing.

Caelan Tyler: Looks like someone has just kidnapped, I mean pignapped Bacon!

Jake Steel: Aph is gonna be pissed.

Caelan Tyler: Well I suppose that is one of the risks of bringing your pet to work.

Jake Steel: I'm surprised Jack hasn't put a ban on that yet.

The camera feed begins backstage in the locker room of Aphrodisia Jordan. She is sprawled out on the sofa. Brad Jackson is perched on the edge of the coffee table. The two are conversing in tones too quiet for the camera's on-board microphone to pick up. Without warning the door swings open and in walks The Ice Man. As he takes his first steps into the locker room Brad Jackson jumps to his feet and approaches him. The two men stare each other down for a few moments before Jackson finally breaks the awkward silence.

Brad Jackson: What the fuck are you doing here, soul-patch-boy?

Aph stands and puts herself between Jackson and Ice Man. She grins lazily at Jackson before turning to sneer at Ice Man.

Aphrodisia Jordan: What do you want? As far as I'm concerned, we have no reason to associate until we get to the ring...

Ice Man: We need to talk about this match, alone.

The Ice Man looks past Aphrodisia and glares at Jackson. Aph glances between the two, much taller men before sighing. She gives Jackson a faint nod and a little push towards the door. Jackson growls something low under his breath about Ice Man's mother and a variety of very large, inanimate objects.

Ice Man: My mother is dead asshole.

Brad Jackson: Even better!!!

Jackson exits as the Warheart crosses her arms over her chest.

Aphrodisia Jordan: All right, we're alone.

Ice Man:Look Aph, I know you hate me, and I'm not exactly your biggest fan either, but we need to make sure that none of that gets in the way of our match tonight. I just want to make sure that we are on the same page going into this.

Aphrodisia Jordan: I like you...

Aph smiles brightly as Ice Man looks at her, confused. Her smile turns into that trademarked smirk, her blue eyes glowing.

Aphrodisia Jordan: ...bleeding.

At that comment, the door opens on its' own. A moment later, a rather large man enters the room, seeing (and feeling) the tension inside. He's a guy who is caught in the middle of an awkward situation... but then again, almost anything with The Phoenix tends to be an awkward situation.

The Phoenix: Oh, boy. What the hell am I missing here?

Ice Man: We were just discussing our unfortunate situation.

The Phoenix: You mean tagging? It's not as bad as you might make it out to be.

Aphrodisia Jordan: It's bad enough! I have this nice, pretty gold and he has nakedness...

The Phoenix: Look, there's no need for insults. Aph, you and I have teamed up before. Ice, you and I have as well. And you both have fought against me in the ring. [The big guy sighs.] I think of you two as friends, all right? And if you are going to have a shot in hell of winning this match, you need to get on the right page. If that means I have to sit here and babysit you two until you reach an understanding, then so be it. There is NO reason you two can't go out there, with six different title reigns in NLW between the pair of you, and dominate that match!

Aphrodisia Jordan: Gee, you really think so, Coach?

The Phoenix simply stares down Jordan, his gaze as intense as it can be.

The Phoenix: I know it. You two are the cream of the crop in NLW at the moment. It's as simple as that.

Aphrodisia Jordan: Mmmm... cream...

The Phoenix throws his hands in the air and turns to his occasional tag team partner.

The Phoenix: Ice, you at least get where I'm coming from, right?

Ice Man: I see what you are saying, but how am I supposed to work with her? Her main goal for the past few months has basically been to kill me. Do you get where I am coming from?

Aphrodisia Jordan: She is standing right here. Hellooooooo...

The Phoenix: We're kind of in the same boat, Ice. Society's been making my life hell the last few months, too. The thing is, we're supposed to be professionals. I know that right now, it's the last thing on both of your minds...especially yours, Aph, you damn pervert...but for twenty minutes, that's all you need to do. Is that too much to ask?

Aphrodisia Jordan: Actually, yes. And in my defense, Icey, you had something I wanted. It could have been you, or Will, or Jax... doesn't matter. You just happened to have it. Plus... you're tasty. Mrowr.

Ice Man: I don't think it's too much to ask, but I have no way of knowing for sure that she will be on my side for the match. I need to know that I can trust her. If only for twenty minutes.

The Phoenix turns to Aph, a gleam entering his eyes as he stares into her eyes.

The Phoenix: Aph, you said that this week, six more men would be made to bleed. The only way that's going to happen is if you work with Ice here. Otherwise they're going to gun for you. You're the champ. That gives you a big target on your back. You need to work together, if you're going to fulfill what you wanted to do. You get me, cherie?

The Warheart seems to ponder this insightful logic from The Phoenix. There's a long moment of silence between the three.

Aphrodisia Jordan: Blood is blood. Don't fuck with me, Icey, and I won't make it seven.

Ice Man: Well I guess that is the closest thing to a truce I am going to get. Just don't give me a reason to regret this.

Aphrodisia Jordan: Don't give me a reason to make you regret it! Yeah!

The Phoenix: Save it for the ring, Aph. [The Phoenix smirks.] You'll thank me later, or so you would say.

Caelan Tyler: The Phoenix playing moderator between the current and former NLW Champion before their tag match tonight.

Jake Steel: Doesn't look like she knows Bacon's been snatched yet!

Caelan Tyler: Even if Ice Man and Aph don't get on the same page here tonight, someone who is on the same page as the champ has his qualifying match here in just a few moments.

Jake Steel: This'll be a slaughter.

Zach King: The following match is for the Gold Rush Tournament, round two and is scheduled for one fall! Making his way to the ring now, from Small Town, Florida... weighing in at 200 pounds even... DILLON BOURNE!

Caelan Tyler: Dillon Bourne advanced this far by beating ??? in the first round of the tournament, although he's been on a bit of a slump as of late.

Jake Steel: Which is why Jackson is going to tear him apart here, The Machine is not the guy with which you fuck.

The lights dim, heavy mist filling the ramp as strobe lights begin to pulse slowly. A steady bass throb begins, growing in volume, sounding much like a heartbeat. A single gunshot shatters the silence, followed by mocking laughter and Jackson's voice hurling insults before the music skips, and then the sounds of 'Lies' by Evanescence filters through the speakers.

Zach King: And his opponent, from Los Angeles, California... Weighing in at 277 pounds... He is your Anarchy X Champion... BRAD JACKSON!

Dark red strobes pulsate on the entrance way, and a dark figure moves among them, stepping forward as indigo fountains of pyrotechnic spark either side of him. He strides forwards, ignoring the crowd reaction with the Anarchy Title over his shoulder. He circles the ring once, his eyes steady, a look of angry concentration on his face, before ascending the ring steps and climbing between the ropes. Jackson stands in the middle of the ring, his head thrown back in a triumphant roar as the music comes to a grinding halt, cut off with a squeal of feedback.

Caelan Tyler: The Anarchy X champion Brad Jackson received a bye into this round on the back of that belt he has, and he's proven himself as one of the fiercest competitors in NLW since joining the company.

Caelan Tyler: Fierce nothing! He's the first ever double champ in NLW history!

Caelan Tyler: That's very true, he's the first person in NLW to ever hold multiple titles at once, when he was also the Tag Team champion with Vincent Kane.

The bell rings signaling the start of the match. Bourne and Jackson circle each other for a few seconds before locking up in the middle of the ring. The two struggle for the first offensive move, but seem to be equally matched. That is, until, Jackson uses the extra four inches in height and seventy-odd pounds in weight to his advantage. With a shove of that spare weight, Jackson tackles Bourne into the turnbuckles. Jax begins to deliver hard forearms across Bourne's face, temporarily dazing the baby-face. With Bourne mildly bewildered, Jackson grabs him by the wrist and whips him into the ropes. Upon the rebound, Bourne has enough sense to duck under the extended arm from Jackson in an attempted clothesline. Bourne bounces off the other set of ropes and takes control of the match with a baseball slide between Jackson's legs and a sharp kick to the Anarchy X Champ's lower back.

Caelan Tyler: Jackson tried to take control early using his power, but Dillon was able to get free and use his speed to bring it to Brad.

Caelan Tyler: Only delaying the inevitable.

Jackson stumbles a few steps before Bourne is on him again. Wild lefts and rights fly at Jackson's face in an effort to stun the larger man. Seemingly satisfied with the amount of abuse, Bourne puts Jackson to the ground with a clothesline and heads for the top rope. Flashbulbs go off wildly around the arena as Bourne vaults off the top rope in a moonsault and eats nothing but canvas. Jackson had rolled out of the way at the last second. The Machine gets to his feet with the heel of his hand to his forehead to bang out the cobwebs produced by Bourne's fists. Bourne is getting to his feet, but Jackson is on him. With one hand in the curled locks and another gripping Bourne's belt, the Anarchy X Champ heaves the smaller man to his feet. Bourne bats Jackson away but the Champ is relentless. Once again, Jackson whips Bourne into the ropes, and upon the rebound, is successful in the delivery of a huge boot to Bourne's chest.

Caelan Tyler: Jackson in control here after one of Bourne's high risk moves backfired.

Jake Steel: Crush the punk!

Bourne drops like a ton of fucking bricks. His hand clutches his chest as he gasps for air and crawls for the ropes. But Jax doesn't give him a chance. Grabbing Bourne by the ankle, Jackson yanks him back from the ropes and starts laying the boots to his chest before going in for an early pin.

One!

Tw--

Jackson growls in frustration and stands, kicking Bourne a few times for good measure. The referee pulls Jackson away and begins to reprimand him. Jackson rolls his eyes but before he can shove the ref out of the way, Bourne flies in from left-field with a stiff forearm to Jackson's face. The referee does his best to get out of the way, but the men start laying into each other. Bourne gets in a good hit and Jackson's nose begins to spurt blood.

Caelan Tyler: Jackson tried to go for the quick pin, but it looks like all he got for his efforts was a bloody nose.

Jake Steel: Yeah, good idea Bourne, give him a reason to snap you in two.

However, this doesn't seem to deter Jackson; rather, it makes him 'Hulk-out'. Jackson lets out a long snarl that's audible to the camera's onboard microphones. Jackson slams his fist into Bourne's solar plexus, nearly bringing Bourne off of his feet in the process. Bourne doubles-over for a moment, but clasps his hands together. Using the momentum of standing up, Bourne slams his fists into Jackson's jaw. Jackson is quick to retaliate with a stiff backhand. The two men retreat to opposite sides of the ring to lick their wounds. The referee orders them back to the center. Both men oblige and Jackson is the first to swing. He hits Bourne hard in the chest and loops an arm around the back of the smaller man's neck. Grabbing Bourne by the belt, Jackson heaves him up and over in a brutal DDT that flattens Bourne out like a pancake.

Caelan Tyler: Massive DDT by the Anarchy X champ there!

Jake Steel: Now would be a good time to just not get up Dillon. Let your pride go and just let him pin you.

Caelan Tyler: No way he'll do that with what's at stake Jake.

Jake Steel: Then he's an idiot.

Jackson drags Bourne back to his feet, and springs at him, looking for an opening. The two circle each other, each with an identical look of determination. The two immediately collide and attempt to power each other down, their strength nearly as matched as their heights weren't. In a stunning display of speed, Jackson manages to kick one of his hands free, and spins around, putting Bourne into a quick but effective hammerlock. Before Bourne has a chance to attempt a reversal, he finds himself flat on his back, courtesy of a leg-sweep. A few vicious kicks to the head send Bourne rolling out of the way, and back to his knees. Smiling, rolling his shoulders and circling, Jackson crouches, waiting for Bourne to regain his footing. As soon as he makes it to his feet, Jackson charges with a spear, but Bourne manages to save himself by diving aside. Instead, Jackson connects with the referee, driving him back hard into the steel ring post. The ref hits the mat, KO'd, and Jackson whips Bourne at the ropes, connecting with a cross body block that sends him sprawling to the floor.

Caelan Tyler: Jackson with a more risky move than we're used to seeing from him, but it looks like it was successful in taking out Bourne!

Jake Steel: Damnit ref, wake your lazy ass up!

Jackson seizes the ropes, vaulting over and landing heavily atop Bourne, his feet stomping on the smaller man's chest. Roughly, Jackson grabs Bourne by the hair; pulling him to his feet and sending him head first into the steel barrier. Jackson, however, isn't satisfied as he hoists Bourne in a fireman carry and brings him back towards the ring, dropping him atop the steel steps with a vicious tombstone piledriver. Bourne crumples to the concrete as the crowd erupts in fresh boos. But the boos are not solely for Jackson. At the top of the ramp, Aphrodisia Jordan has appeared. She is expressionless as she flows down the ramp and rounds the ring with her sights on Bourne. Jackson watches his Society partner with glee as Jordan lays a stiff boot into Bourne's face. With the referee out for the count, there's no one to call foul.

Caelan Tyler: Oh come on! This is uncalled for!

Jake Steel: WHOO! Abuse!

The Warheart's boots find the squishy spot in Bourne's stomach a few times before she pulls Bourne to his feet and pushes him back into the ring. Jackson grins at her for a moment, cockily sauntering over to the ropes to shamelessly flirt with the World Champ. Behind Jackson, Bourne is moving. The Warheart is barely able to shout 'watch out!' before Bourne suddenly lashes out with his foot, catching the side of Jackson's. The crowd is on their feet, chanting Bourne's name and cheering loud enough to blow the roof off the arena. The Machine falls, clutching his knee in pain. Bourne pulls himself unsteadily to his feet, seeming to draw energy from the enthusiastic support of the crowd. He glares at Jordan and says a few choice words in her direction before returning his attentions to the Anarchy X Champion. Bourne pulls Jackson forward, trying to sling him at the ropes, but Jackson resists, using all his mass to pull back. Instead, Jackson sends Bourne at the ropes, heavily favoring his left leg. Bourne comes off the ropes, expertly moving into a strangely modified drop toehold, and he takes Jackson down with ease, managing to lock on a kneelock submission, wrenching on the injured knee.

Caelan Tyler: Dillon fighting back here, despite Aphrodisia's attempts to help her ally Jackson.

Jake Steel: This kid just doesn't learn. They're going to make him roadkill.

Aph is howling and pounding on the mat outside of the ring. Closing his eyes against the pain, Jackson shows impressive stamina by rolling around, and in speed and power motivated by the pain; he manages to reverse the hold, wrapping Bourne up in an elevated dragon sleeper bridge. Bourne cries out in pain, but he refuses to tap out. Growling in frustration, Jackson releases the hold, viciously kicking Bourne hard in the midsection before plastering him on the canvas with a brutal Something Wicked.

Caelan Tyler: If he went for the pin now, he could win it!

Jake Steel: That would be the sensible thing to do... but Jackson knows what we all want to see, and that's more abuse!

Jackson pulls Bourne to his feet, only to get a vicious shot to the face for his trouble, as he feels the power of Bourne's sucker punch. The ref fails to see the cheap move as Jackson is left reeling. He backs in the corner, sitting down heavily in a daze, still shaking his head. Bourne charges, but Jackson counters by rolling quickly out of the ring, falling awkwardly, further aggravating the injured knee. Bourne climbs to the top rope, signaling to the crowd as Jackson pulls himself to his feet. The crowd erupts in cheers which abruptly end as Bourne falls, landing atop the top turnbuckle as Jackson grabs his foot. Shaking off the pain in his knee, Jackson leaps up on the apron, and climbs to the top rope. Strangely, he turns around, grabbing Bourne's head and pulling him up, locking on a three-quarter face lock; a headlock with Bourne's head pinned against Jackson's massive shoulder.

Caelan Tyler: Jackson using that headlock to keep the high flying Dillon Bourne grounded.

Jake Steel: Come on, none of that Jackson, get in some abuse!

Jackson shakes his head slowly and then leaps off the top rope to the floor, landing hard on his knees. Bourne's chin smashes off Jackson's shoulder with a resounding crunch as he executes a suicidal bulldog. The crowd is on their feet, chanting: HOLY SHIT! HOLY SHIT! as both men lay sprawled on the concrete. Jackson clutches both knees, rolling around and cursing, but Bourne isn't moving at all. Jordan rounds the outside of the ring and gives the rousing referee a whack upside the head. She emphatically gestures to the two men in the ring. The referee nods and waves her off and begins the ten-count.

Caelan Tyler: Oh yeah, that's real nice, Aph helping the referee when it suits her.

Jake Steel: Well yeah, why would she do it otherwise?

Caelan Tyler: *Sighs*

Jackson's eyes focus as he pushes through the pain. He crawls towards Bourne and shoves him onto his stomach. Using Bourne's back as a crutch, Jackson gets to his feet. Slowly, The Machine pulls Bourne upwards. The Anarchy Champ hooks Bourne's arms and turns before dropping back, smashing Bourne's face hard into the canvas with the devastating finishing move: Something Wicked. Jackson scrambles to cover Bourne.

One!

Two!

Three!

Zach King: Here is your winner, and the man advancing in the Gold Rush tournament... BRAD JACKSON!

Jackson's music starts up as he rolls out of the ring. The Warheart is there with the Anarchy X Belt in hand. Jackson leans on the much smaller woman as the two retreat up the ramp.

Caelan Tyler: Jackson advances, but a huge assist should go to Aphrodisia Jordan.

Jake Steel: Bah! He would've gotten the job done, with or without her help.

Caelan Tyler: Speaking of Aphrodisia, I wonder if she knows about Bacon missing yet?

Jake Steel: I'd assume not, she didn't try to kill Dillon after all.

Backstage in the cafeteria there is a spread laid out. A couple random crew members and wrestlers piling up food on the plate. The camera gets close zooms in on the food.

Jake Steel: Bacon and ham and pork chops and sausages and...

Caelan Tyler: Wait a minute, do you think? No. It can't be. Bacon?

Jake Steel: I just said that, Bacon and ham and pork chops...

Caelan Tyler: I mean in Bacon as the pig.

Jake Steel: Bacon is made from Pigs smart guy.

Caelan Tyler: No mean, is the bacon made out of BACON?

Jake Steel: You mean as in Bacon the pig? OH!

A masked man comes into the camera view, the image on his shirt identifies him as $$$. He wheels in a table with a covered platter. $$$ parks the table at the end the table spread and lifts up the cover to the platter.

Caelan Tyler: That is gross.

Jake Steel: Mmm my favorite. Steamed pig knuckles with hot sauce.

Another masked man enters the camera view, &&& wheels in another table with a covered platter. He parks it next to the knuckles and lifts up the platter to reveal Fried Pork Skin. &&& pops a piece of pork skin in his mouth. The camera pans to the left and ??? is holding a tray with bacon and ham and sausages, he takes a seat by himself in the corner of the room. The camera zooms in on his face as he bites on a piece of bacon, then smiles at the camera.

Caelan Tyler: I can't believe he's eating Bacon...

Jake Steel: What's wrong with bacon? You Jewish or something?

Caelan Tyler: I mean Bacon the pig...

Jake Steel: Oh, right! Man, I hope for their sakes that they aren't, Aph will rip them a new one.

Caelan Tyler: Those guys have really been pushing the line of decency since they showed up, but this is taking the cake.

Jake Steel: Agreed. We need a no pets policy, and stat!

The camera cuts to backstage, to the office of Jack Sullivan, where the prez is found arguing the toss with a referee, making some point or other about a slow count. The conversation ends though when there is a polite knock on the door, and Sullivan promptly relieves the referee of his employment with the company. Before the stunned referee can even reach the door, the polite knocking has descended into a manic beat somewhat resembling 'jingle bells.' Furrowing his brow in confused annoyance, Sullivan opens the door to his unwanted guests. The sounds of the 'Imperial March' begin to play out of nowhere, confusing Sullivan even further.

Into the office walk four men, each clad in a black T-shirt bearing a familiar black-and-white logo.

Almost in a perfect line are the four members of Explicit Content, Jin Royale carrying a boom-box playing the ominous sci-fi tune, Jason Stone by his side, and the two members of Fusion, the NLW Tag Team Champions Talon and The Jackrabbit, beside them, the latter bouncing ever-so slightly to the tune, lacking however his usual high spirits. Sullivan shakes his head, moving defensively to his desk.

Jack Sullivan: Dare I ask what you guys want?

Jason Stone: You dare.

Jack Sullivan: ...Well what do you want?

Talon: Answers, Sullivan.

Jack Sullivan: Answers to what, now?

Jin Royale: Questions, Sullivan.

Jack Sullivan: What questions?

The Jackrabbit: Our questions, Sully.

Jack Sullivan: For fuck’s sake, just spill it before I get your asses thrown out of here!

Jason Stone: Alright, alright...

Jin Royale: What's with this match tonight, Jack?

Talon: Is your frustration so petty that you would rob our gold and attempt to break our group?

The Jackrabbit: We thinks it suckses, Sully.

Jack Sullivan shakes his head, brushing his hair back in annoyance at Explicit Content's interruption to his heavy schedule.

Jack Sullivan: Do you guys always talk in unison now?

Jason Stone: No.

Talon: No.

Jin Royale: No.

The Jackrabbit: No.

Jack Sullivan: Riiight, real funny guys. Alright, I'll answer your damn question. You're facing off against each other in the Tag Team Championship match because... because I said so! Tonight, when you punks are ripping each other to shreds, you will remember who the boss is around here. Me. And what I say, goes. You know how it goes... revenge is sweet, guys. Now get out of my office, I have a phone call to make.

Jason Stone: Fine, we'll do it your way tonight, Sullivan. But you got one thing wrong...

Jin Royale: You're not making a phone call today.

Talon: You haven't heard the last of us, Jack Sullivan.

Explicit Content turn and leave the office to the tune of the Rebel Alliance, Jason Stone sniggering, Talon smirking, and Jin and Jackrabbit exchange a high-five. Sullivan looks confused.

The Jackrabbit: Bye-bye Sullypie... don't forgets, we will get The... haha... The... hahaaa... The Last Laugh!

Explicit Content leave the office, slamming the door behind them. Sullivan again shakes his head, giving a sigh of relief. Sitting down, he reaches for his phone, bringing it to his ear. Something isn't right, as the receiver squidges softly against his face. He pulls it back, taking a good look... and to his horror, notices for the first time that his phone receiver has been amputated and replaced with a perfectly ripe yellow banana. Somewhere in the hallways, there is hysterical laughter.

Caelan Tyler: A banana?!

Jake Steel: Forget ??? and company, I don't want to be EC when Jack gets his hands on them.

Caelan Tyler: That true, but... hey, Jake?

Jake Steel: *Sigh*...

Caelan Tyler:...Jake?

Jake Steel:...What, Caelan?

Caelan Tyler: Here comes my best friend for his match versus Triple M!

Jake Steel: Yeah, I know, I know. Every week...

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

Zach King: The following match is scheduled for one fall, and is a Gold Rush tournament match! Making his way to the ring first, from Broken Arrow, Oklahoma... Weighing in at 221 pounds... JOSH ALLEN!

Josh slides into the ring and climbs onto the second turnbuckle of the nearest ring post. He begins to throw his hands into the air, but instead waves off the fans, rolls his eyes and leaps down, back onto the mat.

Caelan Tyler: Josh Allen advanced to the second round of the Gold Rush tournament on the back of his victory over Joey Vasco in the first round of the tournament, and these two have had a rivalry that has spanned the better part of the past decade.

Jake Steel: The issue is the fact that Josh Allen refuses to show due respect to one of the best to ever step into the ring.

Caelan Tyler: Bah, you think everyone should bow down and kiss Triple M's ass Jake.

Jake Steel: They should!

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

You are such an imitation of me.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Maurako slams the 2x4 into the top turnbuckle which sounds off a loud bang, which cuts off the music and sends Red and White streamers into the sky

Zach King: And his opponent, from Minneapolis, Minnesota... Weighing in at 260 pounds... 'MARVELOUS' MARIO MAURAKO!

Caelan Tyler: Triple M received a bye to this round of the tournament based on his Anarchy X Championship win back on the first Uprising of the year.

Jake Steel: And he'll carry that momentum through this tournament to the NLW Championship!

Caelan Tyler: Well that would be interesting, considering he hasn't had too much momentum since his return, unlike Josh Allen.

Jake Steel: Quiet you!

The bell rings, and Triple M immediately charges Josh Allen, who is leaning against the ropes. Thinking quickly, Josh Allen, ducks down, pulling the top rope with him. Maurako is unable to halt his momentum in time, and he goes barreling over to the outside. Triple M immediately shakes his head in frustration as Josh Allen taunts him from inside the ring.

Caelan Tyler: A little bit of gamesmanship here by Josh Allen. Triple M looks a bit annoyed.

Jake Steel: Triple M shouldn't let that punk get to him, he needs to get into the ring since the ref is starting his count!

1!

2!

3!

4!

Triple M circles the ring on the outside but Josh Allen follows him from the inside.

Caelan Tyler: This match could be over before it begins.

Jake Steel: Or it could begin before it is over.

Caelan Tyler: What? That doesn't even make... You know, I think Triple M is just afraid of Allen.

Jake Steel: What?! You take that back!

Caelan Tyler: Make me!

5!

6!

7!

Triple M finally tries a quick slide and is greeted by boots to the head from Allen. Triple M tries to deflect to blows but to no avail. Allen grabs Triple M by his head and stands him up, Allen with an Irish whip. Triple M rebounds from the ropes and greeted with a dropkick from Allen.

Caelan Tyler: Beautiful dropkick by Josh Allen, great elevation!

Jake Steel: That actually was not a drop kick, it's a new move created by Triple M where he waits for his opponent to jump in the air, and then he headbutts his opponents feet.

Caelan Tyler: Can you be serious? Just focus on the match, josh Allen is in total control at the moment.

Jake Steel: Only in your biased eyes!

Josh Allen with a quick scoop slam followed by an elbow to the chest. Allen lifts Triple M up but Triple M gives him a low blow. Allen keels over in pain. Triple M delivers boots to the back of Allen.

Caelan Tyler: Triple M finally mounting some offense, albeit from an illegal move. The ref should have disqualified him.

Jake Steel: You are right, Allen's not allowed to use his genitals as a weapon.

Caelan Tyler: ...

Jake Steel: Go Triple M!

Triple M with a DDT on Josh Allen. He hops up quickly and pulls Josh Allen up to deliver an atomic drop but spins him around and slams him back-first into the mat. The crowd boos as Triple M taunts them some before dragging Josh back to his feet. Triple M flexes his muscles before lifting Josh Allen up and tossing him across the ring like a ragdoll with an overhead belly to belly.

Caelan Tyler: What a devastating move by Triple M, first hitting The Beauty Within, then that massive belly to belly!

Jake Steel: I would make a joke about you finding the beauty within Josh Allen, but decided not to. Allen's getting his butt whopped in the ring right now.

Caelan Tyler: I'd expect a lot of that from both men tonight, as this is a match that has a lot of history and no doubt pent up frustration in it.

Triple M whips Allen against the ropes and catches him with another belly to belly to suplex. Allen is writhing in pain on the mat. The crowd is chanting for Josh Allen to get up. Triple M retreats against a turnbuckle as Josh Allen gets up to one knee, Allen is finally on his feet but Triple M charges at him and delivers a clothesline.

Caelan Tyler: That almost broke Josh in half. Josh needs to do something, triple M is in full control and it doesn't look like he's slowing down.

Jake Steel: This is what I'm talking about! You're looking at the next NLW Champion, regardless of whether or not you'll admit it Cael.

Caelan Tyler: Yes, I am looking at Josh Allen.

Jake Steel: ...Prick.

Triple M retreats against one of the turnbuckles again and waits for Allen to get up. Allen struggles to his feet and Triple M charges at him again. But this time, Allen ducks and is able to deliver a back body drop that sends Triple M over ropes and onto the outside. Josh Allen climbs the turnbuckle and raises his arms in the air. Triple M staggers to his feet as Josh Allen jumps down and delivers a cross body from the turnbuckle. Both men lay on the ground as the referee begins the count.

1!

2!

3!

Josh Allen is the first to stir and he pulls himself. Triple M begins to crawl.

4!

5!

6!

Josh Allen grabs Triple M and slams him against the rails. Allen quickly grabs Triple M and throws him into the ring. Allen follows him in.

Caelan Tyler: Smart move by Josh here going for the quick pin.

1!

2!

No, Triple M has his foot on the ropes!

Jake Steel: Great move by Triple M with a legdrop to the bottom rope!

Caelan Tyler: That was not a great move but rather smart thinking on Triple M's part.

Jake Steel: That's Triple M for you, always three steps ahead of his opponent!

Josh Allen picks Triple M up and delivers a European uppercut, the blow staggers Triple M. Allen with another uppercut, Triple M staggers backwards, Allen takes a couple steps back and charges and delivers a flying elbow to the head. Triple M goes down. Allen goes for the pin:

1!

2!

Triple M with the shoulder up!

Caelan Tyler: Close call there for Triple M, Allen almost got the three count.

Jake Steel: Triple M knows what he's doing, he's going to put down Allen like he should've done a long time ago~!

Josh Allen climbs the turnbuckle and waits for Triple M to get on his feet. Josh Allen jumps off from the top rope but is caught by Triple M who delivers a spine buster.

Caelan Tyler: WOW! What a counter by Triple M, he just caught him in mid air. Did you see that?

Jake Steel: Of course I saw that! Triple M was just waiting for Allen to make a mistake.

Triple M delivers the Road to Maurako (pump handle slam) followed by a quick pin.

1!

2!

Kick out by Allen!

Caelan Tyler: Pin attempt by Triple M, but Josh Allen shows he doesn't know when to quit with that kick out!

Jake Steel: It's the beginning of the end for Allen, I just know it!

Triple M lifts Allen up and delivers the Super Mario (full nelson slam) followed by another pin attempt:

1!

2!

Another kickout!

Caelan Tyler: Close but no cigar!

Jake Steel: Damnit just stay down already!

Triple M is upset, and he motions for the ref to count faster. Triple M quickly mounts the turnbuckle and goes for the Nose Dive (falling headbutt from the top rope). Josh Allen rolls out of the way and Triple M's head smacks against the mat with a thud.

Caelan Tyler: That backfired on Triple M, he was looking for a quick pin fall.

Jake Steel: I've never seen someone beat up the wrestling mat the way Triple M is tonight!

Caelan Tyler: Any length to cover for your man huh?

Jake Steel: Damn skippy!

Josh Allen crawls to the ropes and begins to pull himself up. Triple M is getting up as well. Allen in on one knee. Triple M is also on one knee. Allen is still a bit shaken as he's on his feet but slips. Triple M is on his feet now and is walking towards Allen. Allen again on one knee. Allen is on his feet. But before he can turn around, Triple M comes from behind and hooks in the Marvelosity (full nelson).

Caelan Tyler: Oh no! Marvelosity!

Jake Steel: And it looks like Josh Allen's win streak will come to an end. Finally. I was sick of all this Josh Allen talk anyway!

Caelan Tyler: Come on Josh, fight outta this!

Triple M has the hold on tight, Josh Allen's arm are flailing in the air. The ref checks on him, but decided to let it go a little bit longer. Allen tries to get his feet on the ropes, he lifts his feet up and misses it. Allen tries a second time and manages to gets his feet on the top rope, Allen pushes off and is able to flip over Triple M.

Caelan Tyler: WOW! What a counter! What a move! Josh Allen just countered the Marvelosity by using the ropes!

Jake Steel: He got lucky...

Allen has Triple M in a reverse DDT position, but spins him around and delivers an implant DDT. Allen hops to his feet. Allen grabs Triple M up and hooks him with the Touch of Reality. Allen goes for the pin:

1!

2!

3!!!

Zach King: Here is your winner... JOSH ALLEN!

Caelan Tyler: Josh Allen did it! He managed to beat Triple M and the winning streak continues!

Jake Steel: ...There is no God...

As the ref helps Triple M out of the ring, Josh watches and wipes sweat out of his eyes. He signals for a microphone, becoming impatient as a stagehand fumbles to find one. It's finally tossed into the ring.

Josh Allen: Ya know, I've done this week after week, trying to make a point, trying to get you people to understand. I get the feeling there's a locker room full of young guys back there...

Josh points to the back and takes a breath, thinking over his words.

Josh Allen: Well I never use this word, but I will tonight. There's a locker room of guys in the back who are nothing but a bunch of pussies. They think attacking someone when they have their back turned makes them worthy of respect or some shit... Who have no God-damned clue what this business is about. Where's the talent? Where's my real competition?

Caelan Tyler: Preach it, brother Josh!

Jake Steel: Oh please, since when is he an expert on this business? I know such much more than he could ever dream of, and I'm just a commentator.

Josh Allen: Oh? And how many world titles, pray tell, have you held, Mr. Steel?

Josh Allen: You just saw two guys who've been in this business for years... YEARS... Tonight, I came out the better wrestler. Passion, folks. That's what it takes. That's what you've just witnessed. It's a rarity, I know, I know. You can't come to work on Sunday night, set your ass in the back, play Wii, paint yourself a nice little group logo for your T-shirt, and expect to make something of yourself. You wanna be a champion? Get your lazy asses up and make it happen. Step over everyone else in your way, and prove to someone you deserve it. I guess the problem is, as far as I can tell, none of those kids in the back deserve gold.

Josh pulls the microphone down and walks to the ring ropes. He leans across them, trying to relax, trying to help the pain from his match subside.

Josh Allen: Triple M... Venom... Andy Murray... love them, hate them, absolutely despise them, but when it comes down to brass taxes, they've kicked enough ass over the past 10 years that people know their names and show some sort of respect when those names are placed on a show! I guess now they just don't have what it takes to make it in this business. I mean, Andy Murray chickened out of our Equalizer match...

The fans boo, knowing full well that's a lie.

Jake Steel: Blasphemy! Andy Murray wasn't the one who backed out!

Josh Allen: Triple M? I think I just proved that point. And Venom? What the hell? He comes back to be a referee? Cue the fucking violins, he's finally realized it's time to step aside. Apparently, he's satisfied with the mediocre history he's built for himself, so he walks away, not even willing to fight for something that's truly his. You know what? Whatever. His loss. If you can't make it, you can't make it. I'll send him a backbrace as a going-away present.

Fans start an asshole chant. Josh laughs.

Josh Allen: So the veterans are out of the way, and who's left? I could start at the bottom and work my way to the top, name by name by name, rookie to Aphro-fucking-disia Jordan. But I won't. Just know this: I'm ready for some real competition. I want a real battle, a real opponent. I guess... I guess I need to be telling that to our recruitment department, 'cause there sure as hell isn't anyone in this damned company willing to take on that role.

Jake Steel: I wonder who pissed in his Cheerios this week?

Caelan Tyler: Jake, I've talked a little with Josh backstage... I think it's safe to say this is the new-attitude JA.

Jake Steel: Well he's starting to piss ME off, and I don't like it one bit.

Josh Allen: It all comes down to this. I was put here... right here, in this very NLW ring, in this very NLW tournament... to keep a sense of tradition about it. I was put here to ensure NLW had a say in the final outcome, to make sure everything the forefathers worked so hard to establish some years ago continues as a rock-solid foundation. I don't take jobs lightly, and I won't go down without getting a punch in. When the bell rings and this tournament is finished, I plan on being the survivor. But let it be known, I won't be someone's puppet. No corporate, suit-wearing man owns me. I'll be doing what I want, when I want. And I guess I'll stand out here time after time after time, until someone finally steps up to this level of excellence.

The crowd boos Josh, shaking the arena walls as the sound echoes. Josh looks around, stands and stares down Jake Steel. He forces a sarcastic smile and points to Jake.

Josh Allen: Hey Jake, I was going to insult you at this point in my speech, but from the looks of that big, red mark on your head, you've had a bad enough day.

Jake turns to Caelan and pulls his hair back, confused.

Caelan Tyler:... I dunno, Jake, I don't see a mark on your h--

Bam! Josh's microphone thumps Jake's skull. Jake recoils and falls to the floor. 'Riot' by Three Days Grace as a medical team comes down the aisle to tend to Jake. Josh rolls his eyes and turns ignoring the fans who flip him off and call him names.

He looks to exit the ring when suddenly 'Memphis Will Be Laid to Waste' by Norma Jean kicks through the speakers. Josh Allen stops in his tracks and steps back into the middle of the ring with his eyes locked on the entrance way. Through the curtains, the OWF World Heavyweight Champion Jesse Williams steps out to a loud ovation from the NLW crowd. Allen stands unimpressed in the ring, watching Jesse soak up the cheers with a microphone in his right hand. Bandages are strewn across his forehead, and his walk is hindered by a limp from his right leg. With his extended thumb he makes a cutthroat motion with his right hand and the music fades out. The fans cheers remain loud.

Caelan Tyler: Jesse Williams?! What the hell is he doing here?!

Jesse Williams: Do not adjust your television sets. This is not OWF, this is NLW and I am your special guest for the evening, Jesse Williams.

This brings about a cheap pop from the rabid crowd.

Jesse Williams: After Sunday Night, I received an invitation in my locker room. It was a backstage pass to tonight's show. My intentions in being here tonight were strictly business, and I really shouldn't even be showing my face. But, I was watching that shitty little twelve inch monitor granted to me- and I was enjoying my night. I sat back and saw some great matches, but it was all ruined after your match. Once you finishing letting your actions speak for you, it was time for you to run your mouth to follow it up.

Caelan Tyler: Who does he think he is, calling out Josh Allen?

Jake Steel: Someone with some sanity.

Jesse Williams: I listened to your words, and it sounded so familiar. It sounded like the dozens of other guys who come out and talk about what they are going to do. Those who spoke about seeking better competition and demanding respect. As I look at the locker room, I see familiar faces. Regardless of my past with any of them, I respect those competitors. I respect Aphrodisia, Draco, Black Phoenix- hell if I didn't respect Sullivan I wouldn't be here.

The fans applaud Jesse's words before continuing on.

Jesse Williams: But you know who I don't respect? You. You want a challenge, look no further than the man opposing you on this stage this very second. Maybe nobody in that locker room can become a threat to you, but I'm not in that locker room. I'm anywhere you want to meet up, at any time- ready to kick in your teeth at a moments notice.

Josh Allen smirks in the ring while the fans pop out of their seats.

Caelan Tyler: Is Jesse challenging Allen here?

Jake Steel: You know it!

Jesse Williams: I have a feeling I'll be seeing you around. Real soon. But, I have a border to cross before I get myself arrested. Until we meet again.

Jesse Williams drops the microphone and engages in a stare down with Josh Allen who remains in the ring. Jesse disappears behind the curtains to a loud ovation from the crowd.

Caelan Tyler: This is huge! I wonder when something like this can be set up...

Jake Steel: Not soon enough if you ask me.

Caelan Tyler: First EJ Slayer showing up, then Jesse Williams... And still no word from Jack on the subject.

Jake Steel: I'm sure he'll comment on it before the night is over.

Caelan Tyler: Well, another stirring 'Public Announcement' from our champion.

Jake Steel: She's gotta be on the war path by now over Bacon. Woe to those guys.

Caelan Tyler: I'm a bit surprised we haven't seen more of the Punctuation guys this Uprising, they're usually all over the place...

There's a commotion in the front row seats as a group of fans have gathered around and are yelling at someone sitting in the front row.

Caelan Tyler: I think there's a celebrity in the stands.

Jake Steel: Either that or there's a shoe sale in the front row because all these women have flocked towards a seat in the front row. Which is depressing, because normally they all flock to me...

Caelan Tyler: Riiiiiight.

Jake Steel: Good, glad to hear that you agree!

NLW security breaks the crowd up and ushers the women back to their seats. Sitting in the front row wearing a baseball cap and a white shirt .

Caelan Tyler: JASON CHASE! It’s JASON CHASE!

Jake Steel: Who?

Caelan Tyler: Jason Chase. You don't know who Jason Chase is? He's a former OCW Lightweight champion, and is known for his time in ICWF.

Jake Steel: I've never heard of him. And I doubt many people from NLW have either.

Caelan Tyler: I'm sure some people remember him, but I wonder what he's doing here.

Jason Chase appears on the jumbo-tron. He sees himself on the screen and smiles then flexes his biceps and blows a kiss to the camera. The ladies in the crowd and a couple of men cheer in excitement.

Jake Steel: Bah! He's got nothing on my guns!

Caelan Tyler: In your dreams Jake...

Jake Steel: Well regardless of what you think of my guns, Choke-zilla is about to drop his title!

Caelan Tyler: I disagree with you there, but it is time for the first match of our double main event, with The Phoenix defending his Legacy Championship against PIC.

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.

Zach King: The following match is scheduled for one fall and is for the Legacy Championship! Making his way to the ring first, from Charleston, West Virginia... Weighing in at 235 pounds... PIC!

Caelan Tyler: This will be an interesting match, as both men were eliminated from the Gold Rush tournament last Uprising. The Phoenix by Jin Royale, and PIC by Draco.

Jake Steel: And The phoenix will start on a losing streak here, whoo!

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 reigning NLW 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: This is bound to be a good one, as both men are excellent competitors.

Jake Steel: I'm expecting a snoozefest until Phoenix loses the belt to PIC.

Caelan Tyler: Maybe for you, but this should be a technical masterpiece.

Jake Steel: Yes, exactly. Boring!

Caelan Tyler: *Sighs*

The bell rings, and the two men shake hands before locking up with a collar and elbow tie-up. PIC gets the upper hand, quickly doing a standing switch and applying a hammerlock. The Phoenix quickly does a standing switch of his own, putting on a waistlock and lifting PIC up, flopping him stomach-first onto the mat. Phoenix quickly transitions this to a front facelock, keeping PIC down on the mat while the referee checks to make sure that Phoenix isn't applying an illegal choke on PIC.

Caelan Tyler: Quick exchange of early mat work here, with The Phoenix getting the early advantage on his smaller opponent.

Jake Steel: Ugh, I hope the whole match doesn't go on like this.

PIC uses his elbow, battling up to a vertical base. The Phoenix goes for a big right, but PIC catches him and brings him up and over with an arm drag. The Phoenix pops up and does it again, and the result is again the same, but this time with PIC quickly applying an armbar to the Legacy champ. PIC shifts slightly before dropping to the mat himself, wrapping his legs around the arm and locking in a cross armbar.

Caelan Tyler: Cross armbar by PIC here, who's no doubt going to try to use his speed advantage here, since it would appear that both men are pretty evenly matched in the technical department.

Jake Steel: Man, I wish I had remembered by Smallville DVDs...

PIC pulls back on the hold, trying to hyper extend the shoulder of The Phoenix. The Phoenix tries to shake it off as the referee asks him if he gives up. Not paying attention to his own positioning, PIC accidentally lets both his shoulders sit on the mat. The referee sees this, and starts to count:

1...

2...

No, PIC realizes what is going on and shifts one of his shoulders upwards to end the count.

Caelan Tyler: PIC almost cost himself the match there, he needs to be paying closer attention to the match, just like you should Jake.

Jake Steel: I will when they start hitting each other with chairs.

PIC continues to pull on the hold as The Phoenix struggles to get himself free. Eventually the Phoenix is able to grab the bottom rope, and PIC is forced to release the hold. After releasing the hold, PIC immediately goes back to work, clubbing the shoulder of The Phoenix before applying a standing armbar, wrenching at the shoulder some more. A well-timed knee from The Phoenix put an end to that though, and Phoenix quickly regains control with a side headlock.

Caelan Tyler: These two continue to exchange holds, wearing each other down with each passing move! This is what a wrestling match should be like Jake... Jake?

The Phoenix quickly uses his position and size to take PIC off his feet with a headlock takedown, keeping the pressure applied on PIC's neck on the mat. PIC reaches out with his foot, draping it across the bottom rope. The referee makes The Phoenix break up the hold, which he does, pulling PIC to his feet. Once back to a vertical base, the Legacy Champion grabs PIC and delivers a teardrop suplex. Quickly, The Phoenix attempts the first intentional pin fall of the match:

1...

2...

No, shoulder up by PIC!

Caelan Tyler: I have no idea where Jake went to, but the first intentional pin of the match was no good, although that was a beautiful teardrop suplex delivered by The Phoenix.

Lifting PIC up, The Phoenix grabs him in a fallaway position before dropping him down onto his knee with a backbreaker, keeping PIC held down, bridging the challenger's back across his knee. The Phoenix holds this position for a few moments, pushing down on PIC's back before releasing the hold. PIC rolls over onto his stomach while on the mat, and The Phoenix quickly capitalizes with an elbow drop across his spine. The Phoenix then applies a camel clutch, pulling on the back and neck of PIC.

Caelan Tyler: Nice Camel clutch there by The Phoenix, who seems to be really wearing down the challenger here early on.

Even with the pressure he's been applying, PIC starts to fight back, slowing willing himself up. Some elbows free him from the champ's grip, and a dropkick sends the champ packing! PIC falls back into the ropes, sliding down and clutching his back when The Phoenix charges at him. PIC reaches out, grabbing Phoenix's shirt and dropping to the mat, tripping up Phoenix and dropping him neck-first across the middle rope! PIC sees this as his chance, and quickly delivers a solid kick to Phoenix's back. PIC then charges across the ring, bouncing off the ropes and coming back, leaping up and leg guillotining the champ's neck across the ropes even more! The referee admonishes PIC as The Phoenix pulls himself from the ropes.

Caelan Tyler: PIC starting to get back into this with that-- Hey, where have you been Jake?

Jake Steel: I went to get one of those Super Pretzels. Want some?

PIC delivers a boot to the side of Phoenix's head before pulling him up and delivering a reverse DDT! Phoenix's head bounces off the mat as PIC pops back to his feet, fired up. PIC taunts the champ, daring him to get back up. Phoenix does, and PIC quickly whips him into the corner. PIC follows it up with a vertical splash, sandwiching Phoenix into the turnbuckles. The champ stumbles forward, and PIC hooks him, delivering a snap suplex!

Caelan Tyler: You went to get a Super Pretzel?

Jake Steel: Yeah, and?

Caelan Tyler: And you're supposed to be doing your job Jake!

Jake Steel: How am I supposed to work on an empty stomach?

Caelan Tyler: Supposed to eat before we go on the air!

With Phoenix down, PIC quickly grabs his legs, hooking him and looking to apply the Texas Cloverleaf. The champ struggles to try to fight from being flipped over, but PIC is not to be denied, getting the hold applied. Phoenix yells out in pain and PIC cranks back, using the hold that has become one of his pet finishers in the hope of capturing the Legacy title. The Phoenix struggles, and with an almost superhuman effort is able to pull himself to the ropes, holding on for dear life as the referee begins his five count. Reluctantly, PIC releases the hold.

Caelan Tyler: PIC with his Texas Cloverleaf there, but the champ is able to hold on and not tap to it.

Jake Steel: BAH! He'll get him next time, just like I'll remember to get the nacho cheese next time for my Super Pretzel. These just aren't as good without it.

Caelan Tyler: *Sighs*

Knowing that this is likely the time to capitalize, PIC drags The Phoenix to the center of the ring, flipping him over and quickly going for the pin.

1...

2...

No, kick out! Frustrated, PIC pulls The Phoenix up, but before he can Phoenix slinks down, grabbing PIC by the leg and pulling him to the mat, quickly applying the Blaze of Glory!

Caelan Tyler: Blaze of Glory! This could be it!

Jake Steel: Bah! No way!

Jake seems to almost be psychic here, as PIC quickly grabs the bottom rope, leaving both men with just a single rope break a piece for the rest of the match. Shaking his head, Phoenix quickly gets up, and as PIC follows suit Phoenix clips him, slamming his shoulder into PIC's knee and knocking the challenger back to the mat. The Phoenix then goes for a figure four leglock, continuing the pressure on PIC's leg. PIC yells out as The Phoenix locks it in, and struggles to try to find the ropes.

Caelan Tyler: Figure four locked in by The Phoenix, who has been focusing mainly on submissions here to try to retain his gold.

Jake Steel: Just give it time Cael, he'll choke sooner or later in this match, and then it'll be all PIC.

Unable to reach the ropes, PIC instead focuses on trying to reverse the hold, trying to roll onto his stomach. Phoenix tries to fight it, but through sheer will power PIC is able to pull it off, getting onto his stomach and switching the pressure from his own legs to the champ's. The Phoenix quickly releases the hold with this turn of events, leaving PIC to clutch at his leg while he catches his breath.

Caelan Tyler: PIC was able to counter the hold, but who knows how much that took out of him to do.

Jake Steel: He's got enough left to finish the choke artist, just watch.

With PIC still clutching at his leg The Phoenix drops to the mat, quickly hooking on a rear naked choke, the same move that won him the Legacy championship! PIC is no fool though, and having used the time Phoenix's breather bought him had inches closer to the ropes, which he is able to grab. Phoenix releases the hold, knowing now that PIC is out of rope breaks and that he can continue to apply pressure using submission holds without worry.

Caelan Tyler: No rope breaks left for PIC, which can't possibly be good for the challenger.

It certainly isn't, as Phoenix stomps on the back of PIC's leg, keeping up the pressure on the challenger when a rake to the eyes forces Phoenix to back off. PIC struggles back to his feet, catching Phoenix with an elbow as the big man charged him. PIC then delivers a neckbreaker before pausing to try to catch his own breath. Shaking his head to clear his mind of any doubt, PIC picks up Phoenix, hooking him for the Michinoku Driver. PIC tries to lift the 300+ pounder up, but his leg gives out on him, and Phoenix is able to transition down, dragging PIC to the mat with the Blaze of Glory! Left in the center of the ring with no more rope breaks, PIC struggles for a few moments before tapping!

Zach King: Here is your winner, and STILL NLW Legacy Champion... THE PHOENIX!

Caelan Tyler: I told you The Phoenix could win here, and he did so in a convincing fashion.

Jake Steel: He must've injured PIC's leg, only way he could've managed that.

'The Instinct' begins to play, and The Phoenix exits the ring, taking in the cheers from the crowd as the referee hands him his Legacy Championship belt. PIC lies motionless for a moment before rolling out of the ring, pulling himself up using the barricade. Nearby him is Jason Chase, who begins to taunt PIC. PIC turns his attention to Chase, who spits on him. PIC charges at Chase, and the two start to exchange blows before a thumb to the eye stops PIC. Chase jumps the barricade, kicking and stomping at PIC's injured leg. Security quickly comes out, separating the two and taking Jason Chase out of here.

Caelan Tyler: What the hell is the matter with him?

Jake Steel: He must've been pissed about PIC losing too.

Caelan Tyler: I still can't believe that Jason Chase attacked PIC like that, they used to be friends.

Jake Steel: It's wrestling, that sort of thing happens all the time. I know I would turn on a friend who lost to The Phoenix.

Caelan Tyler: You mean like Triple M did?

Jake Steel: Venom's fault, not Mario's.

The scene cuts backstage, where Jack Sullivan is on his cell phone. The camera is too far away to hear anything, but it closes in as Josh Allen approaches Jack, causing him to close the cell phone.

Josh Allen: What the hell Jack?

Jack Sullivan: Huh?

Josh Allen: Jesse Williams! Did you invite him?

Jack Sullivan: Well yeah, but I didn't think he'd call you out.

Josh Allen: What the hell?

Jack Sullivan: Come on now Allen, I'm always on the lookout for new talent.

Josh shakes his head in frustration.

Josh Allen: Where did he go?

Jack Sullivan: Left the building.

Josh Allen: What?!

Allen is seething at this point, and Jack can only shake his head.

Jack Sullivan: Listen, you want to do something about it? Get your passport, we're going to Mexico on Monday...

Josh nods before storming off, leaving Jack alone as the scene cuts back to ringside.

Caelan Tyler: ...Mexico... Wait, OWF's Monday Night Addiction is airing from Mexico this week!

Jake Steel: Huh?

Caelan Tyler: They must be planning on showing up on Addiction!

Caelan Tyler: This could be huge. I know Jack has shown up before on Addiction, but a ratings draw like Allen could really make that show explode...

Jake Steel: Jeez, down boy!

The crowd erupts as a figure appears at the entrance ramp holding a ham hock. It's ???. He slowly walks down to the aisle, slides underneath the ropes and stands in the middle of the ring. ??? takes a bite of the ham hock, and the crowd erupts even louder. ??? drops the ham hock and pulls out a microphone from his back pocket. He waits for the crowd to settle down.

???: I hate pigs, their ugly slime covered snout nosed faces haunt me. I can not stand the sight of these awful creatures. So I must eat them to prevent them from haunting me. I must capture and eat them to prevent them from capturing my soul. I realize now why I haven't been able to find the answer of my identity, it's because these pigs are running around everywhere. The snort and squeal and mess up the balance of things.

Caelan Tyler: What the hell is he talking about? This dude is certifiably insane man. What does a pig have to do with him not knowing his own name? He needs to go back to the looney bin.

Jake Steel: I doubt he's ever read Charlotte's Web. Templeton ruled!

???: Tonight you all will witness something that will be a first in NLW history. Tonight I will kill a pig and sacrifice it and then drink its blood.

The crowd has begun to chant, 'WE WANT BLOOD'. &&& and $$$ appear at the entrance ramp. They are tugging at something with a rope. The curtains part and Bacon the pig is seen with a lasso a round its neck.

Caelan Tyler: BACON IS STILL ALIVE!

Jake Steel: Not for long. Question Mark guy is planning to kill it and drink its blood.

Caelan Tyler: And these fans are cheering for it? Despicable!

Jake Steel: I guess they hate the pig.

Caelan Tyler: I wish somebody would just tell him who the hell he is, so he can stop this nonsense. Every week it's something different with this guys and his posse.

Jake Steel: I actually think it's starting to be entertaining.

Caelan Tyler: You would.

Slowly but surely, &&& and $$$ lead Bacon into the ring. Once in the ring, the pig begins to run around in circles, dragging $$$ along with it. &&& produces a machete from under his costume and hands it over to ???. &&& grabs a hold of $$$ who is still being dragged by the pig and they slow it down. They tie the end of the rope on one of the ring posts. The pig squeals and squirms but is unable to move far. ??? walks over to the pig and leans down, he raises his hand with the machete in the air.

Caelan Tyler: NOOOO! I can't watch this!

??? is about to bring the machete to the pig when sirens begin to fill the arena. An Omaha PD squad car appears at the entrance ramp and the doors to the car opens as 4 uniformed police officers hop out. ??? turns and sees them, &&& and $$$ make a quick exit through the crowd but ??? is still in the ring.

Officer: Let the pig free, or you will be put under arrest sir.

???: You want me to release this pig to a Pig?

The crowd is chanting 'PIG!'. Members of security here in the arena show up and they begin to march down the aisle. ??? turns his attention back to Bacon. With a swift motion he brings the machete down.

Caelan Tyler: AHHHH!!! NOO!!!!

Jake Steel: Open your eyes you little baby.

Caelan Tyler: Is it over?

??? actually just cut the rope attached to the ring post and the pig breaks free and begins to run around in circles in the ring, then falls out and begins to rush towards the officers. The officers shuffle their feet and try to avoid the oncoming charge of the pig but some of them are knocked down. ??? picks up the ham hock as Jackson and Aphrodisia show up on the entrance ramp. The pig moves behind Jackson as Aphrodisia charges down the ring looking ready to take on the world. By the time she reaches the ring though, ??? has already ducked into the crowd.

Caelan Tyler: Jeez this is getting out of hand here tonight, and we still got the Tag title match to go yet!

Jake Steel: Damn, I was so hoping to be rid of that Bacon...

Caelan Tyler: That would've been way too gruesome to show on TV.

Jake Steel: Maybe for the weak of stomach like you.

We are taken backstage, where a random fan stands. The fan stands at around five feet tall, complete with messy, greasy hair, thick-rimmed eyeglasses, acne, and a tattered, old NLW t-shirt.

Random Fan #1: I can't believe I am actually at an NLW event!!! This is so cool!!! I am so cool!!!! NLW ROCKS!!!!!

The fan runs around, beaming as he makes his way down the hall. Like a bee on cocaine, he darts from one side of the corridor to the other, finally making his way toward a nearby locker room -- obviously, security is a little off its game tonight.

Random Fan #1: SO COOL!!!!!!!

Random Fan #2: I'm cooler.

The first random fan is interrupted by a second random fan, who makes his way out of the shadows, clad in a brand new Aphrodisia Jordan t-shirt.

Random Fan #2: Much cooler.

As the second random fan steps into the light, he is revealed to be none other than the man many in the audience know as Tony Millennia, a longtime adversary of Aphrodisia Jordan. Tony wastes no time in stepping up to the random fan, who looks on in silence, as Tony stares down at the fan's tattered shirt.

Tony Millennia: But I'd take your fucking gross shirt over mine any day of the week.

With that, Tony walks off down the hall, leaving the fan standing there with a stupid grin on his face, stroking his ragged t-shirt.

Caelan Tyler: Tony Millennia?! First EJ Slayer, then Jesse Williams, then Jason Chase and now him? What is going on here!

Jake Steel: Isn't it obvious? Jack decided to have an open house here tonight!

Caelan Tyler: Why would Tony Millennia be here though? I guess I can somewhat understand the others, but not him.

Jake Steel: Only time will tell, and I hope it comes with a healthy serving of abuse!

'Close Friends' by Adema begins to play and a ying-yang appears on the big screen as strobe lights fill the arena, flickering on and off. Onto the ramp walks Talon and The Jackrabbit side-by-side, their eyes scanning the crowd. The Jackrabbit tips back his head and begins to laugh, and Talon gives him a look from the corner of his eyes, a peice of lead-piping in one hand. Talon walks now to the ring, followed closely by The Jackrabbit who skips along behind him. Talon slides under the ropes into the ring, as The Jackrabbit bounces onto the apron and climbs through the middle rope. Talon climbs the nearest turnbuckle, holding his arms out as The Jackrabbit crosses the ring and leaps onto the opposite, lifting two index fingers and giving his salute to the crowd. Both men then return to their feet, and Talon tosses his lead-piping to ringside. The referee then takes the Tag titles from around their waists.

Zach King: The following match is a Four Corners Tornado Tag bout, scheduled for one fall, and is for the NLW Tag Team Championships! Already in the ring are the challengers: JASON SPIRE and DEACON EVERS, HIGH IMPACT, and APHRODISIA JORDAN and THE ICE MAN! Making their way to the ring, at a combined weight of 536 pounds, the reigning NLW Tag Team Champions: TALON and THE JACKRABBIT...FUSION!

King barely gets done speaking before Aphrodisia comes off the side ropes, leaps off, and hits a shooting star plancha on the tag champs before they can enter the ring. Zach runs for his life as the bell rings and absolute chaos erupts. Jason Spire slides to the outside, focused on the tangle of bodies on the outside as both members of High Impact go after the other two men in the ring. Jin Royale focuses on Ice as Jason Stone backs Evers into the opposite corner.

Caelan Tyler: And the match erupts into chaos early!

Jake Steel: This match has potential for high amounts of ABUSE! I like it!

On the outside, Spire has thrown Aph to the side, as well as 'Rabbit, and focuses on The Enigmatic One, raining down right hands on the skull of Talon. A cheer erupts from the crowd, as back in the ring, Royale drops Ice with a short-arm clothesline and plays to the crowd for a moment. Evers kicks Stone in the gut and charges towards Jin, but the veteran moves aside at the last moment and dropkicks the rookie in the back, sending him outside. Both members of High Impact are left in the ring with Ice, as Talon is sent into the security barrier by Spire.

Caelan Tyler: And the largest man in the match is asserting his power by throwing around one-half of the Tag Champions. Ice is in trouble inside the ring though, alone against an experienced team!

Jake Steel: Seriously, Cael, it's Jin Royale. Not the most fear-inspiring guy in there.

Caelan Tyler: He's just as capable as anyone on the NLW roster, Jake.

Jake Steel: Are you kidding me? He's just as bad as Phoenix, and I didn't think that was possible!

Jin makes a signal to Stone, who nods. They get in position for a double-team move as Ice gets to his feet. Jin charges in, but Ice catches him, a deep hip toss the result. The plan having been abandoned, Jason charges in, only for Ice to catch him running in, and Stoner gets slammed on top of his tag partner for his efforts. Before Ice can follow up on this, Jason Spire slides back into the ring, as the two big men stare each other down. On the outside, Aphrodisia is starting to make a comeback, as she shoves Deacon away for a moment before stopping him with a drop toe hold into the security barrier. Both members of Fusion are slowly getting their bearings back after being assaulted in the opening moments of the match.

Caelan Tyler: And Deacon Evers tastes the security wall. Aphrodisia seems to be in control, but in this kind of match it might not last.

Jake Steel: Still, as long as she's in control, it can lead to some crazy bitch ABUSE!

Caelan Tyler: Indeed it can.

Spire makes the opening move with a right hand, which Ice returns in kind. A slugfest follows this, with neither man getting an advantage. Aphrodisia has climbed onto the turnbuckle behind Spire, lining up her target. As Ice gets dropped by a hard left haymaker from Spire, Aph leaps, staggering Spire with a missile dropkick to the back. She's quick to get back on her feet, kicking at the legs of the much larger opponent. On the opposite side of the ring, Talon has finally made it inside, and has Jason Stone isolated in a corner, working over the ribs of the best arm specialist in the industry with left and right hooks to the body.

Caelan Tyler: It's absolute bedlam in the ring right now; no one has a clear-cut advantage.

Spire tries to knock Jordan down with a spinning backhand punch, but Aph senses it coming and ducks out of the way. From behind her, Ice comes charging back in, a wicked clothesline dropping the big man. Aph moves in to put the boots to Spire, but Jackrabbit slides into the ring and nails the NLW Champion with a running bulldog. 'Rabbit goes for the early cover, but Ice is right there to break it with a boot to the spine. Behind them, Jason Stone is sent into the opposite corner by Talon, who charges at the High Impact member. Jin, who had rolled to the outside, grabs Stone's foot and slides him outside the ring to safety, as Talon impacts nothing but turnbuckle on the corner splash attempt.

Caelan Tyler: High Impact showing their tag experience on that exchange.

Jake Steel: Psh, like that means anything in this sort of chaos!

High Impact's reprieve is short-lived, though, as Deacon Evers comes around the ring and drops both men with a double clothesline. The rookie is quick to grab Stone and whip him into the steel steps. This action, however, buys Jin enough time to recover as he grabs Evers' head and rams it into the security barrier. Back in the ring, Talon remains slumped in the corner as Ice Man and Jackrabbit face off in the center of the ring. Ice's power advantage is clearly obvious as he forces 'Rabbit into the corner, and delivers a wicked knife-edge chop that echoes throughout the arena. A second follows this, but nothing more as Jason Spire comes from out of nowhere and simply crushes both men in the corner with a charging avalanche.

Caelan Tyler: Jason Spire can turn the tide of the match right here, if he can capitalize on it!

Jake Steel: If he even knows HOW to, that is!

Back outside the ring, Jin is recovering a bit before that gets interrupted by Aph Jordan, who comes from behind and rocks Royale with a Purrfect Ending! As Aph gets to her feet, a cell phone starts ringing at the announcers' table. Jordan looks at it in disgust--the ringer is Rick Astley's 'Never Gonna Give You Up.' As Jin gets back to his feet, Aph grabs the cell phone, tenses, and blasts the High Impact member in the forehead with the phone! Plastic and rubber pieces go flying as Jin drops to the protective mats, a small laceration forming on his head.

Jake Steel: Dammit, Aph, I just bought that phone!

Caelan Tyler: Well...that certainly puts a new twist on being Rickrolled...

As Aph admires her bloody handiwork, Deacon Evers rolls Stoner back into the ring, quickly following. Talon has recovered, and cuts off the debutante with a boot to the head. Talon drops an elbow, and The Enigma rolls Evers onto his back for a cover. He barely gets a one as Ice pulls Talon off. The tag champ gets up and stares a hole into Ice, and the distraction works as from behind, Jackrabbit drops the former NLW Champion with a clip to the knee. Ice crumples to the mat as Talon gets 'Rabbit's attention and motions to Ice. Rabbit nods once, as Talon links his hands together at waist height. Rabbit steps up onto it, and Talon propels his partner backwards into a moonsault on The Ice Man. 'Rabbit holds for a cover, but Aph makes the save by pulling Jackrabbit out of the ring and delivering a European uppercut.

Caelan Tyler: Several attempts at a pinfall this early on, but everyone is still too fresh to let it last.

Jake Steel: And we haven't had much ABUSE yet!

Back in the ring, Ice remains on the mat as Talon looks around. A moment later, the large figure of Jason Spire re-enters the ring. Talon shows no fear and rushes his opponent, only to get a hand wrapped around his throat for his efforts. Spire looks for a chokeslam, but Talon breaks free, with a kick to the gut. The Enigma looks for a DDT, but Spire is too fresh and breaks out of it, nailing the champion with a clothesline. Spire drops into the cover, but Jason Stone comes in from out of nowhere to break the pin with a stomp to the shoulder. As Spire tries to stand, Stone kicks at the left shoulder of Talon to deal that extra bit of damage before turning to face the big man.

Caelan Tyler: And now Jason Stone is looking to take away the power game of Jason Spire. This could be huge!

Spire looks for a lariat, but Stoner makes him pay with an armbar takedown, slapping on a Fujiwara armbar to apply pressure to the shoulder. Spire groans in pain, looking for the ropes, but is saved a moment later as Deacon Evers stomps on the midsection of Stone to break the hold. Aph and Jackrabbit are trading blows on the outside as Jin Royale finally re-enters the ring, cutting off Evers before he can do any further damage to his High Impact partner. The blood on Jin's face, however, is like a target as Evers begins to wail away at the laceration. This lasts for all of ten seconds before Stone grabs the arms of the rookie and applies a full nelson, allowing Jin to get some free shots in.

Caelan Tyler: And High Impact once again showing their experience. Look at Jin just pound on Evers!

Jake Steel: Caelan, would you stop kissing his ass already? He's not like Skye Ricardo!

Caelan Tyler: ...

As High Impact takes charge in the ring, Jackrabbit stuns Aph on the outside with a forearm, and a quick poke to the eye. He then goes for a whip into the security barrier, but Aph reverses, and a quick drop toe hold sends 'Rabbit face first into the corner of the barrier! The Unorthodox One collapses to the protective mats, holding his face as Aph wipes some of Jin Royale's blood from her fist onto one of her arms.

Jake Steel: WHOO! Crazy bitch abuse! Get 'em, Aph!

Caelan Tyler: I can't tell from where I'm sitting, but I think that drop toe hold busted Jackrabbit open as well.

Jake Steel: WHOO!!!

In the ring, Jason Stone still has Evers in the full nelson as Jin plays to the crowd for a moment. As he rears back to clock Deacon one last time, he's grabbed by the trunks by Ice Man, who throws Royale in a spear-like move into both Evers and Stone! All three fall to the mat as Ice makes the cover on Evers:

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Broken up by Talon! As Ice rolls away, Talon picks up Stone and hits a running powerslam on the other side of the ring, away from the tangle of bodies. Talon holds for the cover:

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Jordan reaches in and rakes the eyes to break the count!

Caelan Tyler: That may have been the best chance of the night for someone to make a pin, but Talon was too close to the ropes and Aph made him pay for it! Perhaps wrestling the match earlier in the show is starting to get to him.

Jake Steel: Good! She's not done bringing the crazy bitch abuse yet!

As Aph slides into the ring proper, the camera cuts to Jackrabbit, who can be seen with blood beginning to cover his face from the impact on the corner of the security wall, confirming Caelan's observation from earlier. The Warheart manages to push Talon into the turnbuckles and drive a few shoulders into his midsection. The two members of High Impact are still a bit woozy as Ice Man comes over and backs Stoner into the corner opposite his tag partner. After delivering several hard shots to the head, Ice whistles at Aph, who turns to look at him. Seeing what Ice has in mind, she nods once. Both challengers look for an Irish whip, but only Ice succeeds as Talon reverses Aph's attempt. Stoner charges forward with a clothesline, but Jordan ducks and Jason strikes his Explicit Content stablemate with the blow instead! The NLW Champion hits Jason Stone with a dropkick to the back, sending him sternum-first into the corner. She turns, looking to hit a double-team move with Ice, but Ice has problems of his own as Jason Spire has him in a double-handed chokehold!

Caelan Tyler: Ice Man's in trouble here, Jake!

Jake Steel: Wouldn't you be if you had hands that size wrapped around your neck?

Caelan Tyler: ...OK, point taken.

Aph comes over, looking to help, but Mr. Showtime stops that plan with a spinning leg lariat to send Jordan down! She rolls back to the outside, where Jackrabbit has finally gotten to his feet and is staring down at Aph, the normally happy face gone. In its' place is a determined stare emerging from a bloodied warrior, as 'Rabbit hauls Jordan to her feet and whips her into the steel ring post, shoulder first. He slides into the ring, where Stone is beginning to move out of the corner, and quickly delivers a double-fisted punch to the jaw of Stone, who slumps back in the corner. Without missing a beat, 'Rabbit pokes the eyes of Stone, and whips him across the ring, squashing both Spire and Ice, who were grappling for control in the corner.

Jake Steel: Damn, for once I think the lunatic is taking something serious!

Caelan Tyler: But how long can Jackrabbit keep focused, losing the amount of blood that he is?

With Talon still down, 'Rabbit turns his attention towards Jin Royale, who is grinning like a madman at one-half of the Tag Team Champions. The two start trading right hands, with Royale getting the better of the exchange as he takes control. Whip into the ropes, and Jin catches 'Rabbit with a ring-rattling spinebuster on the rebound! Jin into the cover now:

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Thr--Talon with a double axehandle to the back of the neck to break up the pin! The crowd is on their feet, and have been for the last few minutes as Talon picks Royale off the mat and sets him up for the Bloody Talons axe kick. As he comes off the ropes, Evers low-bridges him, sending Talon tumbling to the outside as Deacon rolls in. Jin recovers to see the newcomer entering the ring, but cannot prevent Evers from delivering a hard DDT! Cover by Evers....

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Jackrabbit from out of NOWHERE for the save!

Caelan Tyler: And the tag champs are finding a way to hang on at the moment!

Royale rolls outside the ring, seemingly stunned by the impact of the blow as he lands next to Talon. In the ring, 'Rabbit brings Deacon to his feet, spins him around, and manages to land the Standing Joke on the rookie! Jackrabbit crawls into the cover, but doesn't even get a two as both Spire and Ice break up the pin. Ice then lambastes Spire with a hard left hook, sending the big, scarred man to the outside as well! Spire is back up after a moment, as he stares down Jin Royale, who is getting to his feet. Spire seems to have something wicked on his mind as he nears Mr. Showtime. Spire looks for a kick to the gut, but Jin catches his foot as a wicked smile crosses his face. The crowd starts a 'Royale, Royale' chant as Jin drops to his knees, still holding the outstretched leg.

Jake Steel: Normally I don't approve of abuse by Jin, but I can't help it! DO IT, JIN!

Caelan Tyler: Not the Low Blow Uppercut 10-count!

Clenching his left fist, he rears that arm back and with a literal cry of 'Shoryuken!' he swings not once, not twice, but ten times into Spire's crotch as the crowd chants along. After the tenth blow, Jason Spire drops to the protective mats, curled into a fetal position and barely moving. The crowd now chants 'Holy shit!' as Jin gets to his feet, looking for another target.

Caelan Tyler: That got the crowd going, but I think that might have just killed Jason Spire!

Jake Steel: Have to admit, that's one way to keep a big man down!

Caelan Tyler: ...Yes, I suppose...

Talon has gotten back to his feet, and sees the form of the NLW Champion slumped against the ring post. Sensing weakness, the Enigma closes in on Jordan, but Aph comes back with a kick to the gut, and a right hand. Talon retaliates, and the two are duking it out on the outside of the ring. Jin Royale comes back in and immediately goes after the Ice Man, looking to take another non-Explicit Content member out. Ice is having none of it as he grabs Royale by the head and unceremoniously chucks him over the top rope. He lands between Jordan and Talon, and Aph takes advantage of the impromptu interruption by delivering another Purrfect Ending, dropping Talon like a stone! In the ring, Ice has Jackrabbit dead to rights as he lifts him into a modified fireman's carry, and drives 'Rabbit to the mat with a Death Valley Driver! Aph rolls into the ring, looks at Ice, and gives him a sinister smile. She motions to the corner, as Ice nods once.

Caelan Tyler: The Ice Man taking a page out of his occasional partner's playbook with that move. But what does he and Aph have in mind?

Jake Steel: Whatever it is, it's sure to equal ABUSE!

Ice exits the ring and climbs the turnbuckles, standing on the top strand. Aph climbs up behind him, and Ice hoists her up onto his shoulders, after yelling at him to 'pick me up, you fucker.' Jordan is now about fifteen feet above the mat, standing on Ice's shoulders as he is on the top turnbuckle. The crowd seems to wait with bated breath, wondering what the hell is about to happen. With a jump, Aph leaps off...one full revolution...a second full revolution...and three-quarters of a third as she hits Jackrabbit with a 990-degree Super French Kiss! As soon as she lands, Ice leaps off, hitting the Avalanche on the NLW Tag Team Champion!

Caelan Tyler: That HAS to do it! It HAS to!

Jake Steel: Damn...

Ice remains to cover as Aph holds her back from the impact...

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Thre--NO! Jason Stone somehow comes in and breaks the cover! The crowd is deafening with its' 'Holy Shit!' chant as the match continues on!

Caelan Tyler: I don't believe it! How did Stoner manage to get in there?

Jake Steel: More abuse? WHOO!!

Getting to his feet, Stone pulls Aph to him, hooks the arm...STONE CRUSHER! That's got to finish it, as Jason Stone floats into the cover:

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Kickout at two and a half by Jordan! No one wants to stay down; such is the importance of the NLW Tag Team Championships! Stone gets up, frustration evident on his face as he tries to figure out what else he has to do! Talon is slow to get in the ring, and Stone sees what he thinks is the perfect opportunity to end this match as he closes in on the other half of the Tag Champions.

Caelan Tyler: Explicit Content is out the window right now; this has gone beyond stables!

Talon avoids the chop to his arm, headbutts Stone, and drops him with a twisting spinebuster! The champ looks to end the match, but Evers comes in and breaks the pin just before the two-count. Deacon pulls The Enigma to his feet as Stone rolls outside, holding the small of his back. The rookie is in the optimal position to pull off what would be a colossal upset in the record books, as he sets up Talon for the Conviction of Sanity. Before he can get it set properly, though, Talon breaks the hold, gets a kick to the gut in, and comes off the rope with a Bloody Talons axe kick!

Jake Steel: How is Talon still in this? After wrestling in the opening match, and the action here, how can he still be standing, Cael?

Caelan Tyler: It's the heart of a champion, Jake! Talon is determined to win this!

Evers is in a world of trouble as Talon gets to the top rope, pauses, and leaps...Death From Above connects on Evers! Aph tries to come in the ring, but gets speared on the outside by Jackrabbit, his blood smearing all over her ring attire as the ref slides in for the cover...

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3!

The bell rings as Adema's 'Close Friends' blares through the arena. Jackrabbit rolls into the ring to join Talon as the referee hands them the NLW Tag Team Championship belts.

Zach King: Here are your winners, and STILL the NLW Tag Team Champions...Talon and The Jackrabbit...FUSION!

Caelan Tyler: What a hard-fought victory by the champs!

Jake Steel: I didn't think they'd do it, but they did...

Caelan Tyler: That's all for tonight folks, see you next time!