GCWA Adrenaline Rush III

*You've gone and done it, haven't you? You've set yourself up to see one of the most loaded wrestling cards the world has ever seen. Good for you. Are you prepared? Do you have your alcohol, your nachos, your comfy chair? Do you have diapers so you don't miss any of the action? Okay, that's only for the most dedicated, but I know some of you are out there. Nice to have you here. Let's get to it.*

*The scene opens up looking like one of those many commercials you've seen over the years. You start seeing gorgeous men & women appearing on the screen, smiling towards the camera.*

Woman: Here in California, we're always looking for the next big thrill!

*She runs, jumping off a cliff and falling a short ways into she splashes into the water below.*

Man: We're excited to see everything that comes next!

*He grabs his surfboard and heads for the waves, ready to catch the next big one.*

Woman: When it comes to the rush of adrenaline, we can never get enough!

*The woman jumps out of the airplane, flying downwards. The camera watches her descend, without the chute ever opening. We switch to the ground, where Jonathan Barrows is seen, stepping out of the darkness.*

Jonathan Barrows: And when it comes to an Adrenaline Rush... we couldn't have you more covered...

*Barrows smiles towards the camera, lowering his head to show his eyes more intently. We suddenly start seeing various wrestling clips flash by, showing some of the moments of the last month. We see The Incredible One's return at Darkness Falls, the brawls between Ed Houston & Dylan Thomas, and some of the more brutal moments between "Mad Dog" Mark Wright and Tony Savage.*

Jonathan Barrows: Sometimes... the rush might even be a little... too much...

*The images start coming faster. We see The Big Bifford standing off in Jonathan Barrows' office. Crazy Chris winning the X Division Title, with Mike Zybala's smile superimposed over it. Duce Jones knocking Mack O'Connor's flask from his hand, igniting a dangerous atmosphere. Jack Puffer getting ambushed by TIO and The A-List.*

Jonathan Barrows: If you have heart issues, or if you're a weakling... this night may not be for you. For the rest of you, though? The New Era just hit another gear. Feel the rush...

*Barrows walks away, as a scream can be heard approaching. The lady from earlier comes crashing down through the roof, landing on what appears to be a table. She's clearly not moving, but the camera doesn't stay on her long, swinging away to blackness...*

*We drop from the banner into the Forum in Los Angeles, California, which looks to be packed to the rafters with energetic Global Championship Wrestling Association fans! The roar from the crowd goes right along with the pyro display to kick off the event, which fortunately doesn't start any fires in the building. This is always a good sign to how the show is going to go. We fly past all of the cheering fans along the aisleway, most looking like you couldn't pay them to be anywhere else than right here, right now. Sitting nearby at the announce position are the usual suspects for the GCWA, Adrian Rockwell & Hood.*

Rockwell: Ladies and gentlemen, welcome to Adrenaline Rush III!!

Hood: These Californians are really pumped to have us here in the Golden State!

Rockwell: The GCWA is hotter than ever, and hitting new attendance records every big show, and tonight looks to be no exception! I'm looking forward to the final numbers coming in, but I'm betting this place is almost sold out!

Hood: And who can blame them? They all want to be here to see Dylan Thomas become the World Heavyweight Champion!

Rockwell: That is certainly a possibility, Hood. But he's got to get past our reigning champion, "The Rocket Man" Ed Houston, in what's expected to be a five-star contest. Can Houston finally put away The A-List's leader and move forward, or will Dylan Thomas win the championship in basically his home turf?

Hood: Before that, though, we've got five other matches that could all main event at any other show up and down the coast here in California!

Rockwell: Maybe so, Hood. Crazy Chris defends his Unified X Division Title against former OCW owner Mike Zybala. "Mad Dog" Mark Wright puts the North American Championship on the line against long-time rival Tony Savage. You can bet both of these matches can compete for match of the night.

Hood: I mean, if Thomas wasn't wrestling in the main event, maybe. His only rival is if The Incredible One sets such an amazing beat-down of Jack Puffer. The ending of Puffer's career could definitely steal the show!

Rockwell: Not to be outdone, Mack O'Connor makes his GCWA PPV debut, taking on Duce Jones for the World Title #1 Contendership in what should be one of the most intense matches tonight. And The Big Bifford makes his return to the GCWA, fighting for a chance to continue his career in the company against one of our co-owners, Jonathan Barrows!

Hood: Barrows is going to take him down. I have faith; he was one of the greatest wrestlers in the world a few years ago, before he made his way back to take over his father's company.

Rockwell: We will see, Hood. Bifford's not a Hall of Famer in several companies for nothing. It's going to be a thrilling night!

*We suddenly switch to another camera angle at ringside, which focuses on two seats in particular. In one of them is a monkey who looks ready to leap over the railing and head into the ring. Beside him, hanging on to make sure Checkers doesn't take the leap, is OCW legend Curt Canon! The crowd gives a roar of appreciation for Canon as he gives a nod towards the camera.*

Rockwell: A true pioneer in the sport!

Hood: Yeah, Jonathan Barrows knew what a draw Curt Canon would be, even when retired, so he made sure to offer Canon extra seats. Canon, of course, only agreed to come once Checkers was allowed. Man, I hope he can control him.

Rockwell: Canon control Checkers? Or Checkers control Canon?

Hood: Either way.

Rockwell: Well, I'm happy to see him here. The man is an OCW Hall of Famer, and one of the best lightweight wrestlers in history... which will lead to his enjoyment in our opening contest! Roll it!

GCWA X Division Title match
Crazy Chris (36-19-1)(c) vs. Mike Zybala (2-3)

*The video rolls, taking us on a tale of two journeys. First, we see Crazy Chris returning to the GCWA along with his brother, Dangerous Dan. The Danger Boiz still look powerful as Hall of Famers, but continually are blocked from the competition, until Crazy Chris decided to get a reaction, saving Ed Houston from an A-List assault. This led to Crazy Chris getting a title shot against Dylan Thomas, with Crazy Chris taking away the Unified X Division Title, his pride and joy for many years. On the flip-side, there's Mike Zybala, the former owner of OCW, going through his own battles for respect. We see his recent battles for the North American Title, as well as being made the referee for the big tag-team match last week. Although Zybala didn't follow Jonathan Barrows' wishes, Deana Barrow returned, handing over a contract for tonight's match. The two men are shown side-by-side, both having gone through adversity, and both getting an opportunity to shine tonight.*

Minos: Our first contest is scheduled for one fall... and will be for the GCWA Unified X Division Title!

*The fans are anxious and ready to get going, already split down the middle on who they want to see win this one.*

Minos: Introducing first, the challenger... standing 5'6" and weighing 175 lbs... from Buffalo, New York... here is the owner of Outsiders Championship Wrestling... Mike Zybala!!

*"Ready To Die" by Andrew W.K. plays, with the fans giving a mixed reaction for the coming of the Outsiders owner. The lights go out, blacking the arena (and causing another small scream from Hood). With the lights come back up, Zybala is now standing in the middle of the ring, smiling. He goes to each corner, saluting the crowd, before settling down.*

Rockwell: Zybala returned to his roots this week, going back to Exile Island!

Hood: Yeah, an OCW Survivor return... he just had to remind me that he won a season there.

Rockwell: Zybala's hoping his return and extra training will lead him to gaining a championship here in the GCWA.

Hood: Hey... you think the island is where he gets his supernatural powers from?

Rockwell: They're not supernat...

Hood: Excuse me, I have to make a phone call about a surgical strike.

Rockwell: Put down the phone, Hood!

Minos: His opponent... standing 6'0" and weighing 228 lbs... from Smithville, Tennessee... he is a GCWA Hall of Famer... with his brother, Dangerous Dan... here is the GCWA Unified X Division Champion... Crazy Chris!!

*The lights go out as a strobe of green and red begin flashing across the arena. At the same time we hear the guitar rip of Mental Health By Zebrahead play. We then get to:*

"Let's go"

*The guitar rip solo continues to play as the strobe lights flicker even faster. The first verse echoes over the PA:*

"The lights are on but there is no one home
Yeah, I'm the type of guy that shouldn't be left alone"

*Chris steps onto the stage staring out into the crowd. The championship is wrapped around his waist. Dangerous Dan walks out behind the champ with a smile. Crazy Chris stands a few moments and soaks the cheers in. The song plays so quickly that we now enter the chorus:*

"And all I want is to go home just for a bit
But these padded rooms are the shit
Whoa, I'm happy in my mental health
Whoa, these conversations with myself
Whoa, they say that only time will tell
Whatever I'm happy in my mental health
I'm happy in my mental health"

*Chris laughs and smiles as they now make their way down the rampway towards the ring.*

"1, 2, 1, 2, 3, go

Hey, meet a friend of mine, now where'd he go?
He's probably sitting there but you would never know
They say just one more shock, try not to resist
They say lie down and bite on this"

*Chris now makes his way up the steps and poses on the top turnbuckle. Dan stays on the outside, giving his brother the glory. Crazy Chris motions towards the crowd and even gestures along to the beat of the music. As the next verse plays Chris leaps down to the middle of the ring. He makes his way to the second turnbuckle when we get back to the main chorus:*

"Whoa, I'm happy in my mental health
Whoa, these conversations with myself
Whoa, they say that only time will tell
Whatever I'm happy in my mental health"

*Chris again smiles and stands in the middle of the ring pointing at his temple motioning that he is proud of his mental state. He then slowly raises up the championship, to the cheers of the crowd.*

Rockwell: Crazy Chris got a huge victory and another notch added to his Hall of Fame career with his win over Dylan Thomas.

Hood: Which was a complete fluke.

Rockwell: After spending some time in Cairo, Crazy Chris looks fresh and ready to fight tonight.

Hood: All that sand... you know, it always finds its way to places you're not expecting...

Rockwell: Too true. Nonetheless, tonight Crazy Chris tries to once again prove that the Danger Boiz are still major players in 2020, facing a tough contest from Mike Zybala. Neither of these guys seem to know much about the other, making this almost a dream match for the fans.

Hood: Or a nightmare...

*The Bell Rings.*

Rockwell: Whatever you choose to think, Hood, this could be a once-in-a-lifetime contest!

Hood: I just hate matches where I can't root for anyone. Zybala's a ghost, and Crazy Chris is, well, crazy...

Rockwell: You could always root for a great match...

Hood: Yeah, that ends in both of them getting injured after a high-risk move. You're right, Adrian!

Rockwell: ...

*Zybala walks up to Crazy Chris as the match begins, with Crazy Chris taking a defensive step backwards. But Zybala just wanted to offer a hand, showing his respect. Crazy Chris gives the hand a quick shake, then backs off, circling around as Zybala watches, still smiling. He motions to Crazy Chris to come at him, ready to go. Crazy Chris comes forward, needing no further invitation, and snaps off a side kick, but Zybala nimbly jumps to the left. Crazy Chris doesn't stop, though, spinning in a series of slashing kicks, but the challenger is dodging them all while backing up, eventually doing a quick roll to the side, coming back to his feet out of harm's way. He's still smiling, something that the crowd seems to appreciate.*

Rockwell: All that training with the organutans has paid off!

Hood: All he's done is dodge so far!

Rockwell: Hey, when you have a pack of organutans all going after you, you'd learn to dodge pretty quickly too... or you wouldn't survive...

Hood: Or I wouldn't be so stupid as to put myself in that position!

*Crazy Chris, looking a little annoyed at the constant misses, dares Zybala to come forward now, wanting to fight. Zybala shrugs his shoulders... then steps forward, going for a sudden Superkick!! Crazy Chris barely manages to dodge away from it, stepping in and grabbing Zybala from behind with a headlock. Zybala quickly reverses, but Crazy Chris immediately shoots him into the ropes, sending the challenger towards the other end of the ring. As Zybala returns, Crazy Chris leapfrogs over him, then bends down, catching Zybala as he rebounds with a back body drop. But Zybala lands on his feet, then jumps forward, latching onto the champ and dropping him with a Russian Leg Sweep! The crowd pops at the first move landing, even as Zybala makes the cover... 1... and Crazy Chris quickly kicks out.*

Rockwell: These are two of the most athletic men on the roster right now.

Hood: Which is just sad. We need to get a lot more people on our roster... so we can replace these guys!

Rockwell: You just want to get rid of Zybala, because he scares you.

Hood: What's wrong with that?

*Dangerous Dan is pacing outside the ring, watching his brother with concern as Zybala has picked him up. He sends Crazy Chris into the ropes, then rebounds himself, catching the running champion with Disrespect (360 backhand slap to the face)! Crazy Chris drops to a knee, stung but not out of it, as Zybala goes to pull him back once more. But this time Crazy Chris twists and lifts Zybala up instead on his shoulders, quickly spinning and dropping him with a Death Valley driver!! Zybala cradles the back of his head, even as Crazy Chris kips up, showing his stamina hasn't decreased since becoming champion. He goes quickly over to Zybala, yanking him up and landing He's Delirious!!! The fans pop as Crazy Chris makes the cover... 1... 2.. and Zybala launches his shoulder off the mat in time.*

Rockwell: Crazy Chris can break out some surprise moves in this one. It's not often he's the bigger wrestler in the match.

Hood: I'm just waiting for Dangerous Dan to get that cheap shot to land from outside.

Rockwell: The Danger Boiz aren't known for cheating, Hood.

Hood: No, but if they want to put down a ghost, another set of hands wouldn't hurt!

*Crazy Chris has Zybala back up now, taking him over to the corner. Crazy Chris climbs up onto him, punching away as the crowd counts along. 7... 8... 9... and then the lights go out! After a second, the lights return, with Crazy Chris still standing on the turnbuckle. Zybala, though, is no longer under him, instead running in from behind, leaping and nailing Crazy Chris with a dropkick!! Crazy Chris flies over the ropes and outside, crashing hard to the mat!! The crowd is stunned, as is Dangerous Dan, who comes running around to check on his brother. Zybala, meanwhile, sits up in the ring, staying there for a moment.*

Hood: Those damn black-outs! There ought to be a law!

Rockwell: Maybe you should start a petition.

Hood: Yeah, yeah, maybe I should! I'm sure lots of people will sign it, including The Danger Boiz after that trick!

*As the referee continues his count, Dangerous Dan works to help his brother up, asking if he's alright. Crazy Chris nods, although his wince and shudder probably means he's lying. Dangerous Dan starts to help him towards the ring, not realizing that Zybala is back up and climbing the turnbuckle! The fans are on their feet as the Danger Boiz both look up, to see Zybala coming off the top with a moonsault to the outside!! He crashes into both men, dropping them to the outside floor, leaving three on the ground! The crowd starts a "Zybala" chant, while the referee starts his count over, due to Zybala's flight.*

Rockwell: Zybala risks it all for the gold!

Hood: No orangutan taught him that move!

Rockwell: Nope, very unlikely. That one was vintage Zybala!

Hood: Well, vintage Zybala better hurry his ass up, because he isn't winning the title on a countout!

*We see Curt Canon at ringside, enjoying every minute of this one. Checkers looks more interested in the snacks being eaten by the guy next to him. We go back to the match, where Zybala is the first one up outside. This makes sense, since he was more braced for the landing. He steps over Dangerous Dan and grabs Crazy Chris, bringing him back to the ring and rolling the champion in. Zybala gets up on the apron, watching as Crazy Chris rolls over onto his back. Seeing this, Zybala springboards over the ropes, coming down on the X Division Champion with the M. Bison (double foot stop)!!! The landing is perfect, with Crazy Chris in a great deal of agony. Zybala doesn't waste much time as he manages to roll over and get the cover, hanging onto one leg... 1... 2... but Crazy Chris manages to kick free in time!*

Rockwell: Zybala really looks like he's bringing it tonight!

Hood: I don't think I could handle him holding a title. I mean, would it stay around his waist when he disappears?

Rockwell: Maybe it would just be floating there on its own...

Hood: Damn it, Adrian, you're not helping!

*Zybala seems to be holding all the momentum as he drags Crazy Chris up once again. He whips the champ into the corner, where Crazy Chris falls into a seated position. Seeing this, Zybala backs away, lining him up for the Facial Reconstruction! As Zybala charges forward for the first part, though, Crazy Chris suddenly yanks himself up off the ropes, spinning into a kick to Zybala's ribs! Zybala bends over, with Crazy Chris latching onto him and lifting him into the air, dropping with Crazy Days (TKO Facebreaker)!!! The move flattens Zybala on the mat, as Crazy Chris just falls back as well, having bought himself a little recovery time.*

Rockwell: What a move from Crazy Chris! The champ showing he can still strike from all angles!

Hood: C'mon, Crazy Chris, keep up the assault!

Rockwell: Made your pick, Hood?

Hood: I just don't want to see Zybala as a champion... that means he'd be around even more!

*In the ring, Crazy Chris slowly pulls himself up, having taken several punishing moves so far. Zybala rises up as well, although he appears pretty dazed. He turns, stepping right into Crazy Chris, who locks his arm around him and takes him down with a side suplex! With Zybala flat on his back, Crazy Chris staggers over to the turnbuckle, making the climb. He takes too long, though, as Zybala manages to get up and come over, climbing as well. The two men exchange shots, with Zybala almost knocking Crazy Chris down once again. But Crazy Chris manages to get a knee in, surprising the challenger. Crazy Chris then leaps off with Zybala in tow, landing the Mental Breakdown (Avalanche bulldog)!!! The fans are roaring as Crazy Chris manages to pull himself over for the cover... 1... 2... and Zybala stays in the match!*

Hood: Damn, I thought that would do it!

Rockwell: Crazy Chris held that X Division Title throughout the closure of the GCWA, and he's not giving it up again without a hell of a fight!

Hood: If he wants to keep it, just kick Zybala in the nuts and call it a day!

*The X Division Champion pulls himself back up, feeling the burn from every breath at this point. But he also feels the momentum having swung his direction. As Zybala struggles to get up, Crazy Chris moves in towards him, getting a boot to his stomach to bend him over. Crazy Chris then grabs Zybala and lifts him up, spinning around and dropping with the Crazy Ride (Powerbomb Facebuster)!! Zybala's down, but Crazy Chris doesn't go for the pinfall this time. He instead heads to the turnbuckle, climbing up to the top. He turns, waiting for Zybala to rise. He's set, prepared to nail him with the Crazy Man's Suicide!! But as Crazy Chris leaps into the air, Zybala suddenly twists around... and nails him in mid-air with a Superkick!!! Crazy Chris collapses backwards, folded awkwardly, but Zybala tumbles down as well, unable to make the pin.*

Rockwell: That just about ripped the mask of Crazy Chris off!

Hood: Along with his entire head!

Rockwell: But a sure pin is slipping away, as Zybala can't make the cover!

*Both Canon and Checkers are shown, bouncing up and down while holding the railing, thrilled with this one's action so far. We go back to the ring, where the referee starts a double count. He gets to 6 before Zybala finally manages to sit up, then start to rise. Crazy Chris has rolled over, likely on instinct, as he tries to recover. On the outside, a weary-looking Dangerous Dan is back up as well, pacing back and forth. He's worried for his brother, and for good reason, as Zybala stumbles over to him and grabs at his legs, working to turn Crazy Chris over into the Annie Wilkes Special (Boston Crab/Ankle Lock submission)!!! Crazy Chris fights it, arching his back, and then manages to kick Zybala away, saving himself for a few brief seconds.*

Rockwell: If Zybala can get the AWS locked in, we could have a new champion!

Hood: Yeah, but I think Crazy Chris is too nuts to tap out. Plus, his brother Dan should rush the ring and attack to cause the DQ.

Rockwell: Crazy Chris doesn't want to keep the title that way, Hood!

Hood: He may not keep the title at all if he doesn't start cheating!

*Zybala tries to grab for the legs again, but Crazy Chris manages to kick upwards, scoring a glancing blow to Zybala's head that knocks him backwards. Crazy Chris then somehow finds the strength to kip up, grabbing hold of Zybala and trying for Inverted Sanity (Inverted suplex)! Zybala reverses out of it, landing on his feet and grabbing Crazy Chris from behind to lift him into the Sound of Silence (Reverse GTO)!! But Crazy Chris escapes this time, reversing to get into position for the Crazy Bastard (Twisting Slingshot DDT)!! No, reversal by Zybala... into a small package! 1... 1... Crazy Chris reverses it... 1... 2... Zybala pushes it back over... 1... 2... and both men release, neither falling to the pin!*

Rockwell: What a series! Back-and-forth we go!

Hood: C'mon, Dan, he's right there! Grab his leg!

Rockwell: It's not going to happen, Hood!

*Both wrestlers are back up now, with Crazy Chris launching into a standing sidekick. Zybala takes it, but bounces on the ropes and comes back with his own kick, knocking the champion back. As Crazy Chris rebounds, Zybala sets for another superkick. But this time he misses, thanks to Crazy Chris doing a barrel roll straight into him, taking both men to the mat! As they untangle themselves, Crazy Chris grabs Zybala and tosses him into the corner. Crazy Chris follows, lifting Zybala upwards. He positions Zybala, wanting to take him off the top with another big high-risk maneuver! But Zybala blocks it with a shot to the Adam's apple, causing Crazy Chris to clutch at his injured throat! Zybala then lifts Crazy Chris up on the turnbuckle and comes off... with a top-rope Sound of Silence (Reverse GTO)!!!! The crowd goes wild as Zybala crawls on top for the cover, grabbing both legs... 1... 2... 3!!!!!*

Minos: Here is your winner... and the NEW GCWA Unified X Division Champion... Mike Zybala!!!

Hood: Oh... my... god... he has a fucking title...

Rockwell: A huge win for Mike Zybala, as he earns his first gold in the GCWA! It was a hell of a fight all the way, but Crazy Chris got caught at the worst moment, and that's all she wrote!

Hood: Damn those orangutans!

Rockwell: What a moment!

*The fans are cheering loudly as Mike Zybala gets handed the GCWA Unified X Division Title. He's smiling widely as he holds it over his head, happy to have taken advantage of the opportunity. We see Dangerous Dan helping Crazy Chris from the ring, not pleased with the outcome. We also see Curt Canon applauding for Zybala, nodding to him, while Checkers hops around behind him. Zybala looks out, pointing briefly at Canon... and then the lights go out! When they return, Zybala is gone, with Canon looking around, confused for a few moments before shrugging and sitting down, ready for more of the action.*

*"Way of The Fist" by FFDP blasts at ear deafening levels, and the response Tony Savage gets walking out of the staging area is even louder, and mixed. As he walks down the ramp, clad in his ring gear and carrying a pet carrier, the reaction from the marks is quite divisive. Some cheer him like a conquering war hero, others rain hate upon his head for his actions as of late.*

Rockwell: This man may be the most controversial wrestler on the GCWA roster right now; some have hailed his actions the last few weeks as his reasserting his dominance over the wrestling game, others view him as a menace that's gone too far.

Hood: Hey, he warned Maddog and his family if they didn't behave, he'd go at them with a rolled up newspaper. You fuck with a guy like Tony, considering his rep, you'd better be prepared for blow back.

Rockwell: You really condone him strangling people nearly half to death?

Hood: So Tony's Obedience School for Dogs is strict. It gets results!

*Tony climbs in to the ring via the stairs, planting his prop center of the ring. One of the GCWA crew hands him a mic, and he's straight to business, ignoring the noises the audience is making.*

Tony Savage: Been getting a lot of flack from some of you about me committing animal abuse lately. Shit, at this point, I'm shocked PETA hasn't busted my balls about kicking a pack of mutts around. Yeah, usually I don't condone beating your pets but, when an animal bites you, you can't exactly just reward them for bad behavior, now can you? You let a dog get away with drawing blood, you've got a beast that's going to keep doing it until you correct that action.

*That gets a mixed reaction from the crowd, as his tone continues to create a divide in the fanbase.*

Tony Savage: Judging by some of the reactions from you people, some of you don't understand or can't get it through your heads this sport ain't nothing to fuck with. Crooked promoters, sleazy managers, the wrestlers...

Even some of you ticket buyers go out their way to fuck a grappler over. I've seen Reddit. Some of you motherfuckers need to go to college. Or therapy. Raggedy ass website.

Hood: The spelling errors alone makes that site trash.

Tony Savage: Point is, motherfuckers in this game will confuse their kindness for weakness. You pay somebody a compliment, show some respect and restraint, they take it as a signal that you're rolling over and taking it. That's what happened with Maddog and his crew; I tried to go out, be respectful and try to handle business the right way...

POW! *slaps the back of his head* That's what I get for treating animals like human beings. Hence, lead to this moment tonight, and the events that transpired before.

Maddog's family tried to end me, and I sure a shit wasn't going to let that pass. So, it was time to take them all to obedience school. Corrective action to prevent shit like that from ever happening again. So, I had to get rough.

Rockwell: You call nearly killing people "being rough?"

Hood: Certain breeds are harder to train than others.

Tony Savage: They've been good boys now, practically rolling over for me on command. But the training's not done...

Tonight, Maddog graduates from in the kennel to a good boy, when I take that North American title from him. That's his punishment for biting a hand that tried to feed him. And this is also a message to everybody else on the roster that thinks it's a good idea to take my kindness for an exposed wound.

*He points at the carrier cage.*

Tony Savage: Your ass ends up in here!

Mark, I hope you learned what you should have last time, and not try my damn patience. You're getting dogwalked tonight, straight up. And if I have to deal with shit from you, or anybody on the roster like this again...

*His face is pressed against the camera lens, reddened and snarling.*

Tony Savage: You're going to end up LITERALLY shoved in that fucking carrier!

*We then cut away, going fully back to ringside.*

Hood: Man, I'd pay to see Mad Dog end up in there!

Rockwell: Well, Savage will get his shot later tonight. But we've got a major contest to get to first, as it's time for Jack Puffer vs. The Incredible One!

Hood: Wooo, TIO!

Singles Match
Jack Puffer (7-2) vs. The Incredible One (3-3)

*The review video starts to run. We see Jack Puffer's match at Darkness Falls against Dylan Thomas, with "Warrick Hill" seemingly interfering to cost Puffer the match. The Incredible One made his return later on that night, rejoining his A-List partner, Thomas. We see The A-List laying out Ed Houston during his World Title celebration, only to have Puffer sneak-attack TIO afterwards. TIO confronted Puffer on the first Inferno of the year, with Puffer calling TIO an imposter, since he was a man of honor in OCW. Puffer swore to find the real TIO. Various clips roll, from Puffer getting involved during TIO's birthday celebration and The A-List attacking Puffer during his match with Mike Zybala. The final shots show some of the interaction from the tag-team match this past Friday.*

Minos: The next match... is scheduled for one fall... coming to the ring... standing 6'2" and weighing 215 lbs... from Aurora, Illinois... here is "The Good Detective" Jack Puffer!!

*The super sexy rock hardening version of James Bond's iconic theme "James Bond's Theme" begins to play. Fans within the arena are like "Wow, this rocks HARD!" others are like "This sounds vaguely familiar..." women and feminine men are like "I think I kinda wanna fuck whoever emerges from behind that curtain." It is a song that appeals to ALL demos. Puffer steps through the curtain looking very aware...he takes in his surroundings, in search of a mystery. A singular spotlight shines on him...the camera zooms in...Puffer turns, facing directly at the camera with one eyebrow raised as his visage is captured within a very 007-esque circle. Once all that has taken place, Puffer marches down the ramp, toward the ring, with the spotlight following. He rolls into the ring and pops to his feet, placing a hand over his eyes, scouring the fans in search of the missing Warrick Hill.*

Rockwell: Puffer finally found out the source for his oral herpes, and all trails lead back to Warrick Hill.

Hood: I mean, is anyone who knows Warrick really surprised?

Rockwell: As disgusting as it sounds, this might be a clue that helps Puffer finally figure out Warrick's location.

Hood: He was in HOW last week, wasn't he? Until Mike Best pitched a fit and got him fired?

Rockwell: Well... we don't know where he is right now...

Hood: I'm a better detective than Jack Puffer, I just want that recognized...

Minos: His opponent...

*The heavy riffs of "I'm Alive" by Disturbed echo throughout the GCWA arena, causing the crowd to boo tremendously. The words "INCREDIBLE" appear large on the big screen as The Incredible One walks out onto the stage followed by his bodyguard Knux. TIO raises his arms out, soaking in the hatred while Knux surveys the area, serious as ever.*

Minos: Making his way to the ring, being accompanied by Knux, from Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada, weighing in this evening at 215lbs... THE INCREDIBLE ONE!

*TIO begins his way down the ramp while more jeers pour in from his name being mentioned. He smirks again, rolling into the ring and climbing a turnbuckle, posing once more. Knux doesn't enter the ring - he walks the ringside area once as TIO stretches the ring ropes while his music fades.*

Rockwell: The Incredible has had a rollercoaster of a GCWA career. Tonight, he looks to end Jack Puffer's run once and for all, and prove that TIO deserves to be in the main event for the company.

Hood: I honestly don't think he has anything left to prove. The guy's a Hall of Famer, a multi-time World Champion, and he's a key member of The A-List. What else is left?

Rockwell: While it's true that TIO has had a magnificent career, he has come up short against some of the top talent in the GCWA. Tonight, he badly needs a PPV victory to prove that he's still among the best of the best.

Hood: Hah! Only losers say they need to prove it. The best just know they're the best!

*The Bell Rings.*

Hood: Prepare for the glory of The Incredible One!

Rockwell: Just don't punch Puffer in the lips...

Hood: TIO's too smart for that. I think that's why he's already wearing gloves.

*The camera focuses on both The Incredible One's hands and the referee's hands. TIO's gloves are black, while the ref's gloves are white latex. Puffer doesn't seem as concerned, as he's just ready to go at it. He and TIO immediately lock up, with TIO wasting no time in lifting a knee up into Puffer's lower gut, surprising him. TIO, smirking, lifts Puffer back up and locks him in, dropping with a Russian legsweep. Puffer rolls to his side, stunned, as TIO sits there for a few seconds, clapping to himself. He looks very confident at the moment, taking his time in getting back up.*

Hood: That's right, Mr. Incredible, work at your own pace!

Rockwell: I don't know, Hood. When you manage to get someone like Puffer down, you should really focus on...

Hood: Did you just say "someone like Puffer"?

Rockwell: You're getting hung up on your OCW memories again, Hood. Remember, Puffer's 7-2 here in the GCWA. He's proven that he's become a threat.

Hood: I give him credit for being better, but he's nowhere near TIO's level!

*As Puffer gets back to his feet, TIO grabs him by the back of the head, laughing at him. He pulls Puffer towards the ropes, tossing him over like getting rid of the trash. TIO turns away, mocking the crowd... not realizing that Puffer grabbed the ropes and hung on. He skins the cat, coming back into the ring behind TIO! As TIO turns around, Puffer reaches out... grabbing TIO by the beard!! He then takes a few steps with the yelling TIO, before dropping with a facebuster/bulldog variation! TIO rolls out of the ring, holding his head, looking stunned, as Puffer hops back to his feet.*

Rockwell: And Puffer counter-attacks!

Hood: Hey, the beard is off-limits!

Rockwell: If TIO's growing to grow it out, it's going to be used against him!

Hood: You hypocrite, you'd be complaining if TIO used Puffer's groin hairs to yank him around!

Rockwell: Well... I mean, yes, I would, but for completely different reasons...

*The Incredible One stays outside for a few extra seconds, just staring in at Puffer, who is clearly ready for his opponent to return. TIO finally climbs carefully onto the apron and steps through the ropes, watching Puffer carefully. He shakes his head, calling it a fluke, and dares Puffer to try something like that again. TIO waves Puffer in, with them locking up again. TIO tries for another knee, but this time, Puffer slides to the left of it, then twists around TIO, quickly rolling him up into a small package!! The referee dives in... 1... 2... and TIO barely kicks out! He jumps to his feet, shocked, and charges at Puffer, but Puffer ducks under the clothesline attempt, then turns and lands a dropkick that sends TIO back out of the ring! The crowd is loving it, as Puffer hops back up.*

Rockwell: So far, Puffer is looking like he's the most prepared tonight.

Hood: It's early yet, Adrian! A veteran like TIO will figure this one out!

Rockwell: Well, at the moment, he's looking like he could use some help.

*On the outside, TIO has turned and is talking to his bodyguard, Knux, looking a little thrown. Knux pats him on the shoulder, giving him a confidence boost, trying to fire him up. TIO nods, then starts to climb up on the apron... but Puffer comes in with a baseball slide, knocking TIO backwards! Puffer comes out as well, kicking away at TIO to keep him hurting. Knux looks like he wants to intervene, but the referee is right there, watching, so he has to grit his teeth and wait. Puffer gives him a smile before pulling TIO up and sending him into the ring, following behind. Knux makes a slight motion towards Puffer's leg, but Puffer hops up and into the ring without contact. TIO tries to take advantage with a swing, but Puffer ducks under it, then lifts TIO up, landing an atomic drop!*

Hood: C'mon, Knux, get your boss straightened out!

Rockwell: Is Puffer going to prove his prediction true, and show that TIO is an imposter?

Hood: Of course not! There's only one Incredible One! That's why he's THE Incredible One!

*As TIO hangs onto the ropes, stung, Puffer steps up behind him, getting a full nelson grip! TIO, though, pulls away before the fingers can be laced, hurriedly stumbling back to the ropes. He turns, staring at Puffer, who steps back, not concerned about losing his grip. TIO looks like he can't believe his eyes, wondering what's going on. He fires himself up, yelling at Puffer for a second about who he is, before jumping towards Puffer with a charge! But Puffer is prepped for it, giving TIO a hip toss! TIO leaps up and charges again, only to get hip tossed again! He pounds on the mat and fires up again with a charge, only to have Puffer take him down with a drop toe hold, banging his head into the mat! Puffer then grabs hold of TIO's leg to perform a submission, with TIO fighting free and rolling outside of the ring once again.*

Hood: Okay, I'm starting to get a little concerned...

Rockwell: The Incredible One has the look of a man who came into this expecting an easy victory and can't change his gameplan now that it's a fight.

Hood: He's still incredible, damn it! Let's go, TIO!

*TIO angrily yanks on the ring apron skirt, tearing it partially in his frustration. Knux walks over again, but this time TIO yells at him to step away and re-enters the ring. Puffer grabs for TIO, but TIO pulls off and gets a European uppercut, staggering him! TIO then jumps forward, smiling again as he applies a quick sleeper hold! But Puffer immediately drops, giving TIO a jawbreaker that sends him flying! Puffer then kips back to his feet, even as TIO stays seated, a look of doubt starting to seep into his face. He struggles to pull himself up, rubbing his sore jaw. He tries throwing a series of punches at Puffer, but all are too slow, as Puffer either dodges them or blocks them, while throwing back his own shots. TIO, frustrated, falls back into the ropes and tries another uppercut, but this time Puffer dodges and yanks TIO down from behind with a reverse DDT! The pin is made... 1... 2... and TIO manages to kick out!*

Rockwell: That was a close count there...

Hood: The ref is obviously biased, since he can't be as incredible as TIO...

Rockwell: I think you're starting to lose your focus, Hood...

Hood: Shut up! I just don't don't know what to say right now!

*Knux pulls himself onto the apron, gaining the referee's attention, as Puffer pulls The Incredible One back up. The referee orders Knux down, but Knux just silently watches from where he's standing, as Puffer sends TIO off with an Irish whip, no, TIO reverses and it's Puffer who hits the ropes. As Puffer returns, TIO tries for a dropkick, only to have Puffer hang onto the ropes and avoid id, leaving TIO to crash onto his back! Puffer jumps in and drops an elbow, no, TIO moves with a roll, continuing it until he's all the way outside the ring, falling to the floor. Knux hurries over to him, checking on his boss, as Puffer gets up, checking his elbow and finding everything in working order.*

Rockwell: TIO's spent almost as much time out of the ring as inside during this match!

Hood: Hey, Knux makes tremendous company.

Rockwell: Really?

Hood: Sure. He's a great listener! You can talk to him for hours!

Rockwell: I'm surprised he hasn't killed you yet...

*Knux has brought The Incredible One back to his feet, looking a little concerned. TIO shakes his head repeatedly, as Knux tries to talk to him. But TIO shrugs him off, then turns... starting to walk towards the back! The fans are booing as Knux hurries after TIO, trying to stop him. TIO, though, looks like he's questioning everything at this point. The referee waits in the ring, his count reaching 5, as TIO starts to walk further away. Knux grabs him again, shaking him to get him to look Knux in the eyes. As the two stare at each other, though, Puffer comes running up, grabbing both men and slamming their heads together!! Knux falls to the side, even as Puffer drags TIO back up the aisle to get him back in the ring before the final countout can occur!*

Rockwell: TIO was trying to leave!

Hood: He was just getting a breather, and Puffer ruined it!

Rockwell: I don't think so. If Puffer hadn't gotten involved, I think TIO would not have been stopped. His confidence looks very shaken now.

*Puffer is now working over The Incredible One in the corner, hitting several forearm uppercuts. He seems totally in control now, as TIO is just trying to cover up at this point. Puffer keeps looking around, as if anticipating another "Warrick Hill" ambush, but nobody seems to be coming out of the crowd. He drags TIO out of the corner, as an injured Knux stumbles back to the ring. He pulls himself up on the ropes, wanting to enter the ring, with the referee trying to block him. Knux shoves the referee back and puts a foot through... and Puffer whips TIO into him, sending Knux crashing backwards! Knux hits hard, as TIO hangs over the ropes, looking down at his bodyguard with a mixture of confusion and anxiety.*

Rockwell: Knux gets rocked!

Hood: Call the DQ, ref! Knux attacked TIO!

Rockwell: The ref was shoved down, he completely missed it.

Hood: Then Knux attacked the referee! Disqualify him!

Rockwell: Wouldn't that be a TIO DQ?

Hood: Dammit!

*Slowly, TIO turns back to where Puffer is waiting. Puffer, the wrestler that TIO never respected, who has controlled practically the entire match. TIO rubs his hands over his head, appearing more frustrated than ever. Puffer looks right at him and does a hand signal, motioning TIO to come fight him. This, more than anything, drives TIO over the edge. With a roar of rage, TIO runs forward, trying one last time to punch Puffer right in the mouth (a dangerous place to aim). Puffer, though, steps into it, lifting TIO up and delivering a spinebuster!! TIO's down, as Puffer drags him towards the corner by his feet. He catapults TIO into the corner, then leaps up and catches him from behind with Under The Lights (catapult followed by backstabber)!!! TIO is down, with Puffer making the strong cover... 1... 2... 3!!!!!*

Minos: Here is your winner... "The Good Detective" Jack Puffer!!

Rockwell: Puffer does it! His first GCWA PPV victory! Actually, maybe his first-EVER PPV victory!

Hood: I just... I don't know what to say right now... I feel like I fell into an alternate dimension...

Rockwell: TIO has been a World Champion, a Hall of Famer, and one of the greatest wrestlers in history... but tonight, Puffer was incredible!

Hood: Quick, what color are red lights on this world?

Rockwell: Er... red.

Hood: Okay, so that hasn't changed... but what else could be different?

Rockwell: Pull yourself together, Hood.

*In the ring, Puffer is back in the corner, standing up and celebrating his biggest victory yet. He drops back down and turns, looking at The Incredible One, who is sitting on his knees with his head down. Puffer, showing he's a true gentleman, walks up to TIO and offers him a hand up. This gets a few cheers from the crowd, as well as a few "No you fucking idiot!" shouts. TIO slowly looks up, seeing that Puffer is offering his hand. Without a word, TIO drops backwards to the mat and rolls, slowly leaving the ring. He walks to the aisle and moves forward, step after step, not even bothering to look to where Knux is recovering.*

Hood: I just... I don't know if TIO can recover from this!

Rockwell: We may have just seen the end of a career...

*TIO doesn't look back, going straight through the entrance, ignoring the crowd entirely. In the ring, Puffer does a quick detective salute in his direction, before turning back to the corner to celebrate some more.*

*We go back to the main suite in the building, where Jonathan Barrows is sitting at his desk. He's contemplating the item sitting in front of him: the mask of Pryde. The crowd cheers in recognition, even though they no longer like the man who was underneath the mask. A voice can be heard, clearing itself, causing Jonathan to look up.*

Jonathan Barrows: Here to gloat?

*The camera pans over, showing Jonathan's sister, Deana, standing there in an impressively-tight gown. She looks for all the world to be having the time of her life.*

Deana Barrows: I'm just here to wish you luck later on tonight, brother. After you put yourself on the line for my benefit, I obviously am rooting for you to win.

Jonathan Barrows: Bullshit. You set this up in the hopes that I won't be walking away after tonight. You think you can just swoop in and take over this place if I'm too badly injured to continue, right?

Deana Barrows: Wouldn't Hunter be a better choice? Or has his lack of interest due to Cirque du Soleil caused you to doubt him? Where is Hunter, anyway? I haven't seen him tonight.

Jonathan Barrows: I'm sure he's around somewhere.

*Deana walks over, giving her brother a quick hug from the side, a hug that Jonathan doesn't return.*

Deana Barrows: I do hope you've got something planned tonight, Johnny. You may still have confidence in yourself as a wrestler, but it's been so long, and Bifford is... well, something different.

Jonathan Barrows: You shouldn't worry about my plans for Bifford tonight, sis. You should worry about what I've got planned for you.... soon...

*Deana gives a small laugh, before turning and walking out the door. She seems fully in control. Jonathan goes back to staring at the mask, as we return to ringside.*

Rockwell: Will Jonathan Barrows really wear the mask of Pryde again tonight?

Hood: The man was nearly unbeatable when he wore that mask, Adrian. The Big Bifford's going to be destroyed tonight, once and for all!

Rockwell: I'm doubtful on that, but anything can happen in the GCWA. And speaking of anything can happen, it's time for the Dog Collar match for the North American Championship!!

GCWA North American Title Dog Collar match
"Mad Dog" Mark Wright(c) (7-1-1) vs. Tony Savage (8-1)

*The videos begin to run again, this time taking us back to the first Inferno of 2020. "Mad Dog" Mark Wright, fresh off of defending his North American Championship against Duce Jones & Mike Zybala, came to the ring to offer an Open Challenge for his belt. Tony Savage accepted the shot, only to get ambushed by "The Demon" Daniel Wright! Mad Dog, clearly against this, confronted his brother, leading to a match between the two the next week. During the match, though, both brothers watched as Savage attacked their manager, Sunny Jim, in the back, sending him through a glass window! The Demon would get the first shot at Savage, but Savage came out victorious in their confrontation. Savage also hung Mad Dog from a chain at one point, choking him out, leading to the match between them being signed as a Dog Collar match! Our final shots are from last Friday, where Mad Dog was called out of the building, leaving his brother The Demon vulnerable to a Savage assault, leaving him laid out.*

Minos: The next match is scheduled for one fall... and will be a Dog Collar match for the GCWA North American Championship!!

*The crowd predictably pops, as they've been a fan of the North American Title since it was founded late last year.*

Minos: First, the challenger... standing 6'4" and weighing 231 lbs... from Atlanta, Georgia... he is one-half of the GCWA Tag-Team Champions of the World... here is Tony Savage!!

*The lights dim low. He has no need for pyrotechnics, all the flashes from smart phones and camera illuminate his way down the ramp.*

*The intense drum beat of 'Way Of The Fist' pounds over the arena's sound system, and the man marches down to the ring, dressed in black military pants and boots. His shirtless chest bears tattoos and scars, including bullet and bomb wounds, across his core like a mural.*

*Security makes sure, due to his other job as soldier of fortune, he's not packing any outside weaponry. The device they're using beeps as it passes over the Tag Title that Savage is wearing. Once they clear him, he jumps onto the apron and climbs into the ring.*

*He climbs the turnbuckle, his mouth twisted in a wolfish, blood-thirsty grin, as he stands with arms crossed, waiting for action.*

Rockwell: Savage had some tender moments working out with his family this week.

Hood: I don't think "tender" ever works as a description for Savage. But yeah, the kid working out was cute.

Rockwell: Who knows, Hood? In ten or twenty years or so, he might very well be the next World Champion.

Hood: That's "champon", Adrian. Again, cute kid. But I'm sure he's not watching the match tonight, because no way would Tony want to give him nightmares. We could see some extreme brutality tonight.

Minos: His opponent... standing 6'2" and weighing 238 lbs... from The Hills of West Virginia... with his manager, Sunny Jim... the GCWA North American Champion... "Mad Dog" Mark Wright!!

"AAAAAARRRRRRRGGGGG! ROOF! ROOF! ROOF!"

*The sound of banjo picking begins to play over the PA.*

Woke up early this morning
As I looked around my world be crumblin' down
What I saw, I couldn't believe, Who are you?
What might I be? Oh, the things you do

*"Mad Dog" Mark Wright comes barreling through the entrance way. Chugging a can of beer. He stops at the top of the entrance way, and smashes the can on his head. The North American Title is wrapped around his waist. Sunny Jim comes out from behind, walking with his client. Mad Dog throws the smashed can into the crowd and then pulls his jacket off throwing it down and runs down the entrance way and slides under the bottom rope into the ring.*

Rockwell: Mad Dog has been on an incredible run the last few months, all starting with winning the #1 Contendership to the North American Title at High Rollers. He's crushed all opponents since then. But before that, his first loss in the GCWA was to Savage.

Hood: And that's got to stick with him going into this contest. I mean, you've improved, you're stronger, but is it enough to get past a guy like Savage? That, plus all of Savage's ambushes, have to be weighing heavily in Mad Dog's mind.

Rockwell: Well said, Hood.

Hood: And Mad Dog's mind is slow enough without any extra weight!

Rockwell: I knew I was being too quick with the praise...

*The two wrestlers are placed in the dog collars, with a steel chain separating them. Neither seems to have a problem with it, as the two foes glare at each other. The bell rings.*

Rockwell: We've only had three North American Champions. Will Tony Savage become the fourth?

Hood: I don't know, Adrian. Mad Dog looks pretty comfortable in that collar!

*The two wrestlers step towards each other, locking eyes. Savage starts rolling the chain in one hand, crossing it around his fist. Seeing this, Mad Dog starts to do the same thing. This brings the wrestlers closer together, which is exactly how both men want it. They start jawing at each other, with Savage saying some pretty crass things about Mad Dog's brother, The Demon. Mad Dog, not needing much, comes in, and the two men start pounding on each other with the steel-wrapped fists!! The crowd goes wild at the brawl, with the wrestlers falling to the mat, still swinging wildly away at each other! The ref can't do anything but make sure he's out of range.*

Rockwell: It's a brawl!

Hood: And I expected nothing less from Mad Dog and Savage!

Rockwell: It sure didn't take long for these guys to use the connection between them as a weapon!

*Mad Dog seems to get the upper hand on the mat, raising a chain-wrapped fist over his head to bring it down onto Savage. But Savage yanks his own chain-wrapped fist to the left, and the chain, which had gotten between the two wrestlers, goes between Mad Dog's legs! Mad Dog immediately lowers his hand and rolls aside, only slightly damaged. He gets up, hurting, as Savage jumps up next to him. He grabs hold and lifts, giving the champion a high angle tiger suplex!! Mad Dog hits hard, rolling himself out of the ring on instinct. He leans there on the apron, dropping to a knee, trying to recover. But Savage is already grabbing the chain and pulling on it, yanking Mad Dog up and forcing him to come back through the ropes!*

Hood: Here, Mad Dog! C'mere, Mad Dog!

Rockwell: There's no escape when you're chained together! It adds a whole new element to the contest!

Hood: And like most things in wrestling, if you add in an element, it can hurt like a bitch!

*Having dragged the champion back in, Savage lands a few more shots, this time with just a closed fist. It still does plenty of damage, as Mad Dog is reeling. Savage looks like he's enjoying himself, as he uses the chain to whip Mad Dog into the corner, sending him crashing in. Savage follows, lifting Mad Dog onto the turnbuckle and setting him up for a muscle buster! He steps forward, no, Mad Dog manages to get himself free, coming down behind Savage... and wrapping the chain around Savage's throat from behind!!! Savage is suddenly, desperately fighting to get his hand between the chain and his windpipe, as Mad Dog is pulling back with all his might!*

Rockwell: Mad Dog is going to choke him out!

Hood: I told you, Mad Dog knows how to use a leash!

Rockwell: Right now, he's definitely got the chance to get revenge for Sunny Jim and The Demon!

*Sunny Jim is on the outside, looking extremely happy at the way things are going. Savage has dropped to his knees, still fighting to get his hands between the chain to give him some relief. Mad Dog puts a knee into Savage's back, allowing him a little more leverage. But Savage is still able to get a grip, slowly pulling the chain upwards. He manages to get it free of his throat, then ducks down, causing the slack to fall backwards. Mad Dog steps back, but doesn't lose his balance. As Savage tries to take a few deep, healthy gasps of oxygen, the champion drops from behind, smashing in the back of the head with a headbutt!! Savage tumbles forward, with Mad Dog going for the pin... 1... and the ref stops counting, pointing out that Savage's arms are under the ropes.*

Hood: Mad Dog's head might conceivably be harder than that steel chain he's holding.

Rockwell: I wouldn't doubt it.

Hood: You were known for your head back in the day, weren't you, Adrian?

Rockwell: You're not going to get me with that one...

Hood: Damn.

*Mad Dog has brought Savage back up at this point, taking the contender to the center of the ring. He locks onto him, going for a German suplex, no, reversal by Savage, and it's Mad Dog that takes the suplex! It's hard to tell if Mad Dog fully landed on part of the chain, but it sure looked like it, as he's wincing badly from the impact. Savage pulls himself up, shaking off the stars dancing across his vision. He looks more intense now, as he approaches the dazed champion as he tries to stand... and clotheslines him over the top rope!! Mad Dog crashes hard to the outside, but that's just the first part of Savage's attack. He moves backwards, yanking on the chain, and suddenly Mad Dog's being lifted up by the throat!! His legs kick frantically as he's lifted off the ground!*

Rockwell: This is what Savage did a few weeks ago!

Hood: And there's no Demon around to save Mad Dog this time!!

Rockwell: The man is being hung!!

*Sunny Jim is over there now, grabbing at Mad Dog and trying to lift him up at least a little, to shift the weight. Seeing this, Savage releases his grip, allowing Mad Dog to slide into Sunny Jim's arms (and nearly take him over). Sunny Jim checks on Mad Dog, trying to rouse him. He then looks up, to see Savage approaching. Savage hops over the top rope to follow the chain and drops to the floor, his eyes focused on Sunny Jim! The manager backs off, then runs for it, as Savage gives chase. Savage reaches out, almost grabbing his suit... and then gets stopped, as he reaches the end of the chain! He turns back to where Mad Dog is back up, gasping, holding onto the ringpost.*

Rockwell: Sunny Jim is SO lucky right now!

Hood: He's not a wrestler, Savage should just leave the poor man alone!

Rockwell: If Sunny Jim wouldn't get involved, he wouldn't become a target!

*Savage heads back towards Mad Dog, orienting back onto his objective. He comes around the ring post, grabbing at Mad Dog... who shoves Savage back into the post! Savage staggers away, having only glanced off, but it gives Mad Dog enough time to dive back into the ring and yank on the chain, snapping Savage forward into the post again!! Savage falls back, stunned, only to get dragged once more into the steel post, doing more damage! Mad Dog then finally pulls Savage in the rest of the way, reaching over and hauling him towards the middle before making a cover... 1... 2.. and Savage kicks out!*

Rockwell: Both men are using the chain connecting them in unique ways.

Hood: I know the fans love that, but I really liked the 'choking out' method. You do that enough times, you win the match for sure.

Rockwell: And maybe kill a man.

Hood: I'm sure both of these guys have signed a no-liability contract. The GCWA should be safe.

*Mad Dog hauls Savage back up, intent on finishing things as quickly as he can. He steps away from Savage, then uses the chain to yank him closer, going for a unique take on the Mountaineer Lariat!! But Savage ducks under it, and as Mad Dog turns back around, Savage yanks him closer and delivers a thunderous spinebuster!! Mad Dog rolls over to his stomach, clutching the back of his head. Savage, seeing this, decides to capitalize, wrapping the chain before stepping in and nailing Mad Dog multiple times in the same spot, doing extreme damage!! Mad Dog slumps forward, barely moving, as Savage starts pulling himself back to his feet, grinning.*

Hood: I think Mad Dog's been busted open!

Rockwell: Yeah, he's been cut up on the back of the head from those strikes.

Hood: Too bad this isn't a First Blood match. If it was, Savage would be champion, and at least Mad Dog wouldn't have to take any more punishment!

*Savage pulls the bloodied champion up, looking in full control. He smacks Mad Dog in the mouth a couple of times before pulling him in close, dropping him with a double arm DDT!! He rolls over Mad Dog, snapping at the referee to get in position for a pin count... 1... 2... but Mad Dog gets a shoulder up! Savage looks annoyed, but he doesn't let it slow him down. He moves to the corner, climbing up, as Mad Dog tries to somehow regain his footing. It's a bad decision on Mad Dog's part, as Savage wraps the chain and leaps, hitting a top-rope Superman punch!! Mad Dog falls, his bloody cuts opened wider, but he falls out of the ring before Savage can lock him down with a pin.*

Rockwell: Every minute we go from here on out, Mad Dog's going to be getting weaker!

Hood: Blood loss is no joke! Neither is the cleaning bills we're going to need for the ring...

Rockwell: But the fans love the violence, Hood. They're wanting to see more!

Hood: Sadistic, but they help pay my salary, so I'm all for giving them what they want!

*Since it would take more effort to pull Mad Dog in with the chain, Savage instead follows him out, grabbing hold of the barely conscious wrestler and rolling him back into the ring. The crowd starts to react, raising in pitch, as Savage starts to head back in. But he seems to realize something's changed, and spins around to see "The Demon" Daniel Wright slowly making his way to the ring! The Demon's hurting still from the beating he took at Inferno, but he's not going to stay in the back anymore. He grabs for Savage, but Savage is ready for him, pulling free and nailing The Demon with a chain uppercut! He starts letting loose with multiple swings on The Demon, as the crowd roars the second fight.*

Hood: The Demon's in no shape to be out here, not after what Savage did to him a week ago!

Rockwell: He couldn't take it anymore, he had to try to help his brother, and probably get some revenge for himself.

Hood: Bad plan, he should have just cursed Savage or something from the back. The frontal assault wasn't successful.

*Savage, his fist still wrapped, steps back, taking aim. Sunny Jim tries to grab his wrist from behind, but Savage just shoves him back, sending Sunny Jim crashing into the steel steps! Savage then continues his motion, leaping forward and hitting The Demon with One Shot, One Kill!!!! The move, already dangerously effective, is worse with the steel chain, dropping The Demon to the ground! Savage stands over him, flexing his fist, which probably hurt a little worse with the chain as well. He shakes his head at The Demon before turning and rolling back into the ring, getting up... and getting dropped by a desperation Wright Way (RKO)!!! The crowd goes wild as Savage is down, with Mad Dog in no shape to capitalize!*

Rockwell: This could be over, if Mad Dog could make the pin!

Hood: The Demon's sacrifice worked! Hey, if a Demon sacrifices himself, does he become an Angel?

Rockwell: I have no clue...

Hood: I don't see any wings forming...

*The crowd is still cheering and chanting as Mad Dog is finally moving, his face rapidly becoming a crimson mask thanks to some of the hits he's taken in this one. He slowly drapes an arm over the downed Savage, with the referee ready... 1... 2... but Savage kicks out at the last second! The crowd reacts, even as Mad Dog sits up, trying to get back to his feet. He reaches down, fiddling with Savage's collar, before managing to unclip him from the chain! Mad Dog gets up, wrapping the chain around himself, as he staggers over to the corner and starts climbing up.*

Hood: What's he doing?

Rockwell: It looks like he's got the chain wrapped to use his own body as a weapon!

Hood: That's stupid, he's going to get hurt, too!

Rockwell: But if Mad Dog lands on top, it's game over for Savage!

*Mad Dog balances himself up top, the chain wrapped tightly around him, as he looks down at the still downed Savage. He lets out a few bloody barks to the crowd before leaping off, trying to land Go Mad (top rope diving headbutt)!! But Savage partially rolls/dives out of the way, and Mad Dog only hits canvas!! Mad Dog, his head bashed one more time, struggles to get back to his feet. He's still wrapped in the chain, as Savage, taking advantage of the ability to gain distance, runs off the ropes and charges backwards... hitting One Shot, One Kill!!! The Heart Punch collapses Mad Dog to the mat, with Savage dropping on top of him... 1... 2... 3!!!!!*

Minos: Here is your winner... and the NEW GCWA North American Champion... Tony Savage!!

Hood: The Savage One is a double champion!!

Rockwell: He truly proved himself to be worthy of the North American Championship! Mad Dog was a strong champ, but his reign ends here tonight.

Hood: What a bloodbath! And that makes two title changes already tonight, with the third and final one on the way in the main event!

*Savage wipes a little blood from a gash on his own face, making sure it's out of his eyes, as Minos brings over the North American Championship. He proudly takes it, raising it over his head, as he stands over the blood-soaked Mad Dog. It's a hell of an image. The new champion then turns and leaves, allowing the medics to get in and check on Mad Dog, even as some are already working on The Demon and Sunny Jim as well.*

*The camera switches to the outside of the Forum. The parking lot to be exact, the night is still young as the darkness begins to settle over the air. Suddenly, a beat-up Enclave comes swerving into the parking lot, coming to a stop in a designated spot. We don't have to wait and see who's about to exit because of the giant hole in the windshield. The driver is Duce Jones, who appears to be upset as smoke billows through the hole. He kills the engine, exiting the vehicle, bringing his gym bag along with him. Placing the strap over his shoulder, he heads for the back entrance to the Forum.*

*Duce brings his hand to his lips, taking a toke off a blunt, inhaling deeply before releasing the smoke into the air. He's on a mission, taking a moment to stop and observe the red and blue illuminated arena. He hits the blunt again, letting the smoke flow from his nostrils. He then looks at the blunt, noticing that it's down to a roach. Duce gets one final hit before discarding the roach. With a deep exhale, Jones lets out the smoke now from his mouth, adjusting the gym bag over his shoulder.*

Duce Jones: You got dis shit..

*Now continuing towards the building, he appears to suddenly be upbeat as he nears the building. Making it to the back door, he nods to the security guard on point who opens the door for him as he enters the Forum. The shot switches to a different camera inside, showing Jones walking past members of the ring crew and catering team, headed for the locker room area. He maneuvers through the corridors of the Forum before coming to a halt. He slowly turns around, setting his eyes on the cameraman behind him.*

Duce Jones: Are you followin' me?

*The cameraman doesn't respond as he keeps his camera focused on Jones.*

Duce Jones: Look mane.. Right now ain't tha time t'be sneakin' up on me, I'm a lil bit jumpy y'kno'?

*Still no response.*

Duce Jones: I guess y'all want some final thoughts on dis match wit Mack here tonight.

*He chuckles.*

Duce Jones: Well I'ma put it like dis.. Tonight, is my night ta shine. Tonight, I make a believa' outta all those muthafuckas who doubted me, who neva' gave me a chance. Which is fine by me cause I love provin' folks wrong. Dis is my moment, my chance, my opportunity.. An' Mack. You ain't nothin' but tha final nail in tha coffin dat makes it very clear! Dat I ain't work as hard as I did, only t'be dropped back down t'tha bottom'a barrel. O'Connor if ya lookin' fo' a fight, ya just found ya one.

*Turning back around, Jones leaves, still on search for his locker room as we cut back to ringside.*

Rockwell: Duce Jones wants to cement himself as the top guy in the GCWA, and he has the opportunity to moves towards that goal later tonight!

Hood: Only if a miracle happens and Mack O'Connor gets arrested before the match tonight.

Rockwell: Do you think that's a possibility, Hood?

Hood: O'Connor's pretty unpredictable, but hopefully Treat keeps him out of danger tonight.

Rockwell: Let's go back to the ring, for a truly unique contest!

Singles match
The Big Bifford (32-14-1) vs. Pryde (0-0)

*The footage begins to roll, showing The Big Bifford making his first return back to the GCWA. We see him in the Round Robin Tournament, ending up in the Fatal Fourway match for the GCWA World Heavyweight Title. Bifford won out, becoming the champion for the second time. We see parts of Bifford's reign, with Jonathan Barrows seemingly interested in removing all of the 'old guard' from the company. Jonathan also arranged to take the GCWA away from his father, The Accelerator, a major Bifford supporter. When Bifford finally fell, getting beaten by Ed Houston at Darkness Falls for the title, Jonathan Barrows was there soon after, firing him. We see some clips of Bifford's name being banned from the telecast, as Barrows strove to wipe him from the memory of the fans, an impossible feat. We see some of the events of the last month, where Bifford's music played during the Gauntlet Invitational, and Barrows began to find chicken sandwiches around his office and limo. Barrows' family members also start to disappear, first Deana, then Hunter. When Jonathan called The Accelerator as a last-ditch effort to find them, he learned that Bifford was there, seemingly having kidnapped all of them. In a surprising move, Jonathan decided to put his family above his business, agreeing to give Bifford a match against him at Adrenaline Rush. That's when Jonathan learned that Deana & Ace were actually in on the 'kidnapping', with Ace getting some revenge on his son for his earlier betrayal.*

Minos: The next match is scheduled for one fall... introducing first... a former two-time GCWA World Heavyweight Champion, making his return to the GCWA for at least one night... standing 6'4" and weighing 411 lbs... from Phoenix, Arizona... here is The Big Bifford!!!

*The place erupts as "Gangsta's Paradise" by Coolio begins to play. It's a moment that some of them weren't sure they were going to see again. The curtains part, and The Big Bifford walks out onto the stage, standing there and looking around at the crowd with a smile on his face. He stomps down the ramp and heads for the ring, his MAGICAL FLEECE waving around him.*

Rockwell: I can't believe Bifford was able to open a Bifford's Sandwiches of Chicken in the Roman Catholic Cathedral of Los Angeles...

Hood: Hey, you can eat a sandwich, then go to church and confess your sins for eating, y'know...

Rockwell: Yeah, I don't want to talk about the ingredients. Someone out there may be eating a sandwich right now.

Hood: As much as I love Bifford's salesmanship, I still can't forgive him for what he did to Jonathan Barrows.

Rockwell: You mean after Barrows fired Bifford and banned his name from GCWA airwaves?

Hood: Yeah, but that was business. Forcing Barrows into this match by threatening his family, when Barrows was happily retired? It ain't right.

Rockwell: He didn't threaten them, though. Deana and Ace were in on it, after all.

Hood: You should never turn on family...

Rockwell: Like Jonathan & Hunter did to Ace...

Hood: Shut up...

Minos: His opponent... returning to the ring for the first time in years... standing 5'8" and weighing in at 200 lbs... from Parts Unknown... here is Pryde!!!

*"Dangerous" from Within Temptation begins to play, as smoke billows out, surrounding the entranceway. The fans are split, some wanting to boo Jonathan Barrows, while others are excited to see his alter-ego back in action. Slowly, a figure appears through the smoke, his mask the first part to become clear. Pryde steps onto the stage, showing zero emotion as he's focused intently on the ring. He walks down the ramp, heading for the ring, where The Big Bifford is waiting for him.*

Rockwell: Jonathan Barrows has donned the mask once again!

Hood: He looks like he's still in pretty good shape! Bifford's going to get his ass kicked, and then get canned for a second time!

Rockwell: I wouldn't have thought Jonathan was hiding such powerful guns under his suit.

Hood: Hey, he still works out!

Rockwell: Jonathan went on a quest this past week to find his brother, Hunter, in the most unlikely of places: Cirque du Soleil.

Hood: At least he wasn't eaten by Bifford. That was a very real concern.

Rockwell: You would hope Bifford wouldn't do that to a son of The Accelerator, but let's face it, he's completely unpredictable.

*The Bell Rings.*

Rockwell: Here we go, the match we never thought we'd see! The Big Bifford vs. Pryde!

Hood: C'mon, Barrows, beat him so bad even Smokey The Bear feels it!

*The Big Bifford removes his MAGICAL FLEECE, putting it behind him on the turnbuckle. He turns back, ready to go... and Pryde is there, punching away with shot after shot!! He keeps Bifford in the corner, punching away furiously, trying to do as much damage as possible. Bifford, though, no-sells a couple of punches, then shoves Pryde backwards, sending him rolling away! Pryde pulls himself back up and tries to come back, but Bifford steps out of the corner with a big boot, knocking him down. He picks Pryde up, spinning him around in his arms, putting him into a Torture Rack! Pryde is already in a lot of trouble, struggling against the hold, trying to get free, as the referee moves in to check on him.*

Hood: Oh no!

Rockwell: Bifford's now got his grip on Barrows, and he's going to break him in two!

Hood: Why would Pryde just run straight at him like that??

*The ref turns to Pryde, asking if he wants to give up, but Pryde reaches down, raking at Bifford's eyes! Bifford drops Pryde, working to clear his vision. Pryde, hurting, goes off the ropes and charges with a double axehandle hit, staggering Bifford towards the ropes. Pryde then hits the ropes again, launching into a second double axehandle. Bifford leans on the ropes, feeling the hits. Pryde goes a third time, charging in, but this time Bifford turns and clotheslines him, putting the masked wrestler down! He rolls his shoulders, stretching them out, before reaching down and lifting Pryde off the mat. Pryde's attempts to get free are not effective, as Bifford just hangs onto his throat! The ref warns Bifford, but he's not listening, instead apparently talking to Pryde. He looks a little suspicious now, dragging Pryde towards him.*

Hood: Break free, Pryde, run for it!

Rockwell: Bifford is looking unstoppable right now, but he also looks like something's not right!

Hood: But what could... wait!! Who the hell?!?!

*As Bifford starts moving Pryde around like a rag doll, wanting answers, another man can be seen climbing the turnbuckle behind him... with a steel chair in hand!! Bifford tries to turn, sensing it somehow, but Pryde hangs onto his arm, slowing him down. The man leaps into the air, and lands a picture-perfect chair shot to the head!!! Bifford collapses to his knees, his eyes glazed over from the shot, before falling forward to the mat. Pryde, gasping for breath, nods to the man... who is also wearing a Pryde mask!! The ref looks completely overwhelmed, signaling for the bell, as the two Prydes come together, giving each other a manly hug!*

Rockwell: I think the ref just disqualified... one of the Prydes!

Hood: Which one?

Rockwell: Both of them?? Hell, I don't know... what da fuck is going on??

*The first Pryde leans against the ropes, looking tired. He reaches up, pulling off his mask... to reveal Hunter Barrows!! In the meantime, the second Pryde, likely Jonathan Barrows, is now using the chair, slamming it down onto Bifford's back multiple times!! The referee is ordering the assault to stop, but Hunter comes over, pushing the referee back and talking to him. He's apparently explaining the situation, although the referee doesn't look pleased. Hunter calls over Minos, talking with him as well, even as Pryde jams Bifford's leg into the chair, locking it up. He then goes off the ropes and comes back with a leaping stomp, causing Bifford to come to, grabbing at his injured ankle!!! Bifford kicks the chair away, hurting, even as Minos gets on the mic.*

Minos: Per the orders of co-owner Hunter Barrows... this match has been restarted... and it is now a No Disqualification match!!

Rockwell: Oh, shit! That's bad news for Bifford!

Hood: Oh, Barrows Brothers, you have NOT let me down! This is awesome!

*The Big Bifford pulls himself towards the ropes, hurting badly from the chair shots. He's got a cut on his forehead, leaving a trickle of blood going down his face and into his beard. Hunter comes forward, punching away at it, continuing his brawling style. Pryde, still masked, goes out of the ring and heads underneath, searching around for a minute. He finds what he's looking for, dragging out a steel ladder! The crowd cheers, liking the sight, as Pryde starts working the ladder under the ropes and into the ring. It gets left on the ground, though, as Pryde goes to join his brother. The two men pull Bifford up and bring him over towards the ladder. Bifford tries to fight back, swinging at both men, but Pryde manages a kick that goes in a bit low, causing Bifford to bend over. Both Pryde and Hunter then jump up, giving Bifford a double DDT onto the flattened ladder!!! The crowd winces in agony, as Bifford just slumps over the ladder, not moving.*

Rockwell: The deceitful planning of Jonathan Barrow is working perfectly so far!

Hood: No wonder he needed to find Hunter this week! Without him, this plan wouldn't have succeeded!

Rockwell: It hasn't succeeded yet, not until Jonathan gets the pin or submission...

Hood: If Bifford doesn't quit, he'll be carted out of here, and maybe that's the way it should be!

*Pryde and Hunter maneuver Bifford, getting him to lay fully on the ladder. Pryde then points mockingly towards the turnbuckle, with the crowd booing the gesture. A small "Bifford" chant starts, trying to inspire the Hall of Famer, as Pryde heads for the high-risk territory. Hunter stays on the ground, not as comfortable with those maneuvers, instead content to stomp away on Bifford to keep him in place. Pryde reaches the top, balancing himself... and suddenly Earl The Popcorn Salesman comes running from the back, charging towards the ring!! He's not fast, but he eventually makes it, climbing up and trying to shake the ropes. Pryde drops down to the mat, landing on his feet, and turns, angrily stepping forward with a forearm shot that knocks Earl off the apron! Behind him, Kenny can be seen approaching, although he doesn't look as anxious to enter the ring. He goes to check on Earl, as Pryde glares at them. Hunter is shaking his head as he turns back to where Bifford is laying... but Bifford has risen up, grabbing Hunter by the throat and somehow managing to chokeslam him on the ladder!!!!*

Hood: Jesus!!

Rockwell: Hunter Barrows was 31!

Hood: Not funny, Adrian! He's one of our co-owners, and that could have seriously injured him!

Rockwell: I bet Hunter's thinking he was having more fun in Las Vegas about now!

*Hunter lays on the ladder, shuddering, as Pryde turns, seeing Bifford getting back up. Pryde grabs the nearby steel chair and rushes forward, trying to swing again, but this time the bloody Bifford catches it, stopping its momentum! He yanks it away, tossing it to the side, looking extremely pissed off! Pryde, seeing this, decides to start backing off, but he can't get out of range before Bifford grabs him, lifting Pryde up and delivering a sidewalk slam!! Pryde's down, even as Bifford falls again to one knee, his ankle still badly hurting him from the impact it took earlier. Kenny is still on the outside, trying to get Earl to rise, but he took a hard fall, and for an average person, you don't get up quickly. Bifford doesn't pay any attention to them, though, instead working on the loops on his wrestling boots, tightening them to help with the pain.*

Rockwell: The Barrows had a run, but The Big Bifford isn't playing anymore!

Hood: Time to get your brother and run for it, Mr. Barrows! You've got a company to run!

Rockwell: I don't think he can get away, Hood!

Hood: But he's got to! Who'd run the company if he and Hunter are taken out? Wait... that explains it!

Rockwell: What?

Hood: Deana! She's counting on Bifford injuring Jonathan & Hunter so she can take over and destroy the company! What a bitch!

*The Big Bifford slowly gets to his feet, limping painfully over to where Pryde is laying. He reaches down, hauling the masked man up, and locks under both his arms, dropping with a Double Arm DDT! With Pryde down again, Bifford rolls him over for the cover... 1... 2... but Pryde gets his shoulder up! Bifford wipes some blood from his forehead, making sure to wipe it off on Pryde's downed body, before pushing himself up. He drags Pryde up with him, showing no respect for a co-owner as he pulls at the mask as if to take it off. The mask stays on tightly, though, so Bifford shrugs and sets Pryde in place, preparing for the Biff End! He lifts, no, Pryde drops and throws an arm up, getting an uppercut low blow!!! Bifford gasps and leans forward, bending over towards Pryde, who leaps up onto Bifford's head and drops with a Fameasser!! Bifford's down, even as Pryde lays on his back, sucking in as much air as possible.*

Rockwell: It took a dirty shot, but Barrows is back in this...

Hood: You've Still Got It!! You've Still..

Rockwell: Sit down, Hood, and do your job, damn it!

*Pryde pulls himself to his feet, looking like he's struggling to stand. The Big Bifford is already on his massive stomach, pushing himself up, but Pryde runs in and leaps, hitting a double stomp to Bifford's back to put him back down. Pryde, having fallen down from the maneuver, turns and heads for the turnbuckle. He heads up as quickly as he can, wincing in pain before he gets to the top. He looks down at Bifford, shaking his head in anger. He then reaches up, yanking off the mask and showing his true face!! Jonathan Barrows, now voluntarily unmasked, sets himself and leaps off, coming down with a 450 splash!! He lands perfectly on Bifford's back, crashing into him! The ref drops, but can't count, since Bifford's the wrong direction. Barrows manages to get him over... 1... 2... and Bifford kicks out!*

Hood: You have to say it, Adrian!

Rockwell: Fine... I guess Barrows does "still got it", being able to pull off a move like that after years behind a desk!

Hood: He is the greatest! Pryde for President, 2020!

*Jonathan slowly gets up, disappointed that the 'big move' didn't succeed. He rolls out of the ring, walking over to the ringside area. He points to the timekeeper, asking for what's hidden behind his table. The timekeeper, surprised, starts to look around... and pulls out the baseball bat that's been left there!! Barrows takes it with a grim smile, turning and going back into the ring with it. He waits impatiently as Bifford slowly rises, bracing himself behind the powerful wrestler. As Bifford turns, Barrows swings... and Bifford blocks it, snatching the bat out of his hands!! Barrows, stunned, just stares at Bifford holding the baseball bat and smiling. Barrows turns to run, but Bifford just throws the bat, hitting Barrows in the back!!*

Hood: No!!

Rockwell: A bit of an unorthodox swing, but I'd still call that a home run from Bifford!

Hood: DQ him, ref!

Rockwell: It's literally a No Disqualification match, Hood!

Hood: I thought that was only for Barrows, not for Bifford!!

*Barrows struggles to get up, his spine having taken the brunt of the baseball bat throw. Bifford comes over to him, grabbing him and staring him straight in the eyes. He shakes his head and drags Barrows along with him as he walks to the side. Barrows tries to fight back, but Bifford just no-sells the swings, as he reaches down and grabs something off the mat: the mask of Pryde. He turns and jams it onto Barrows' head... only putting it on backwards!! Barrows, blinded, tries to free himself once more, but Bifford has too strong a grip. He turns, lifting Barrows up... and landing the Biff End!!! The crowd cheers as Bifford makes the cover, leaning over the downed co-owner... 1... 2... 3!!!!*

Minos: Here is your winner... The Big Bifford!!

Hood: Shit...

Rockwell: The Big Bifford is now officially back as a full-time wrestler in the GCWA!

Hood: Yeah... but after what he's done tonight, Bifford's probably going to regret being back! I bet Jonathan & Hunter are going to make his life hell!

Rockwell: We'll have to see, Hood, but for now, Bifford's gotten his revenge.

*The crowd is still cheering as The Big Bifford goes to get his MAGICAL FLEECE. There are bodies everywhere, with the medics going to check on Hunter Barrows, Jonathan Barrows, and Earl The Popcorn Salesman. We cut away from Bifford's celebration.*

*We cut back to the main suite of the Forum, where Deana Barrows is shaking her head at the site of her brothers both down in the ring. She can't quite hide the smile that's crossing her face, though. After a few seconds, she looks down at the contract lying in front of her, before turning and making a phone call.*

Deana Barrows: Hi, Jill. I just wanted to confirm one item with you. The Tag-Team Titles... they haven't been defended yet this year, have they? No... no, I didn't think so... I know Brady Vega has been injured, but I think my brothers may have let this get a little... out of hand. After all, we didn't get them even defended on this show, did we? Well, don't worry... we'll be making a special announcement next week... that's right, on Inferno... I'll see you then... ciao.

*Deana hangs up the phone, already considering the next contract in front of her. You'd think she's already taken full control of the company at this point. We go back to ringside.*

Hood: Someone get her out of there! She has no right!

Rockwell: She's one of the co-owners, Hood, I think she has every right.

Hood: Not when Hunter and Jonathan can veto her!

Rockwell: Well, they're in no condition for that at the moment. In the meantime, let's go back to the ring for a battle between two of the best, for a shot at the World Championship!

Singles match
Duce Jones (15-4) vs. Mack O'Connor (1-0)

*The review video begins to run, showing Duce Jones being put into a Gauntlet Invitational match by Jonathan Barrows in order to prove himself. Jones defeated the first three men he faced, then braced himself for a possible confrontation with The Big Bifford. Instead, though, Mack O'Connor made his shocking debut in the GCWA with an assault on Jones, landing both of his finishers to lay Jones out and end the match. O'Connor would continue to pop up during Duce Jones' matches, including distracting him badly enough once to cost him a match with Chad Vargas. O'Connor is seen talking in the ring about coming for the World Title, only for Jones to interrupt him. Before the two men can fight, though, Jonathan Barrows announced that they'd be fighting for the #1 Contendership at Adrenaline Rush. Jones got some revenge on Vargas on the last Inferno, before challenging O'Connor to come fight him. O'Connor instead simply walked away, continuing the mind games.*

Minos: The next match is scheduled for one fall... and will be for the #1 Contendership for the GCWA World Heavyweight Title!!

*The fans are buzzing, but soon turn to a mixed reaction as a voice begins to speak through the PA system.

"And the whole world loves it when you sing the blues... Da. Da.. Da. Da. Da.. Da...."

*The opening sounds of "Godspeed" by Don Trip begins to play as the lights inside of the arena turn a crimson hue color, soon the stage filling up with smoke. After about a minute of waiting, Duce Jones slowly emerge through the fog, mixed emotions coming from the crowd.

Minos: Making his way to the ring... standing 6'0" and weighing in at two hundred fifteen pounds... from Memphis, Tennessee... the former GCWA North American Champion... DUCE JONES!!

*Slowly making his way towards the ring, Jones ignores the cheers and jeers that the fans are giving, as he soon makes it to ringside. Climbing onto the apron, Duce goes to the corner to his right, climbing onto the second rope and peering out into the crowd. Finally done, he jumps over the top rope, landing inside of the ring and removes his hooded vest as he prepares for action. He steps to the outside, handing off the vest, while looking to the side.*

Rockwell: Duce had an insane, violent week from what we saw.

Hood: Hey, all I know is I saw way too much of "Little Duce".

Rockwell: The man was attacked by cannibals, Hood, and nearly killed. But all you're concerned about is him being naked?

Hood: It haunted me, Adrian. Still does. *shudders*

Minos: His opponent... standing 6'3" and weighing 220 lbs... from Brooklyn, New York... he is an OCW Hall of Famer... here is Mack O'Connor!!

*"Vagabond" by the Greenskeepers hits. Mack O'Connor walks out on the stage and walks directly to the ring, dressed in jeans and a black tank top. He occasionally raises an arm to acknowledge and get a rise out of the fans. He slides into the ring and starts pacing in his corner. He doesn't talk trash to his opponent but he makes sure to stare them down, letting them know he means business.*

Rockwell: O'Connor didn't have a very good appearance on Jimmy Kimmel's show this week.

Hood: Kimmel's an asshole. He just wanted to goad O'Connor into violence, and would have gotten his balls handed to him if he hadn't had so much security around him.

Rockwell: Yes, but O'Connor should try to get his temper in check. It can end up costing him in the future.

Hood: All I can say it, in protest of this, I won't be going on Kimmel's show again.

Rockwell: Like he'd ever have you on...

*The Bell Rings.*

Rockwell: It's time to find out the next #1 contender!

Hood: It's definitely Mack, he just needs to take care of business tonight to guarantee it!

*Duce Jones comes forward first, moving to the center of the ring. He's talking to O'Connor, telling him about how he actually has to stay and fight him this time. O'Connor smirks and steps forward himself, wanting to know what Duce thinks he's got. Duce points his finger right into O'Connor's chest, saying that it's his time now. O'Connor, still smirking, suddenly reaches out, grabbing Duce into position for the Claymore!! But Duce manages to get free, throwing himself backwards. With Duce sitting there, O'Connor smiles at him once more, giving him a hand gesture to inspire him to get back up.*

Rockwell: It could have ended that quickly!

Hood: Mack doesn't get paid by the hour! No reason to wait to put someone like Duce away!

*Duce gets back to his feet, looking steamed. He moves in, with O'Connor meeting him with a lock-up. O'Connor gets a head-lock, still smirking as he works over Duce's neck. But Duce reverses it, lifting O'Connor over with a snap suplex bridge! The ref is there... 1... and O'Connor quickly kicks free. He jumps up, looking a little surprised, but Duce is already up as well, grabbing at O'Connor and going for the Duce of Clubs!! But O'Connor shoves Duce away, stumbling back into the corner. Duce, smirking himself now, gives O'Connor the same gesture from earlier, getting in his own mind games. O'Connor pulls himself out of the corner, annoyed.... but also a little pleased.*

Rockwell: Mack began the chess game, and Duce just answered with his own counter.

Hood: Hard to picture either of these guys playing chess.

Rockwell: So you're thinking more like checkers?

Hood: I'm thinking either late-night Chicago Hi/Lo or just a backyard fight club.

*The two wrestlers come together again, locking up in a back-and-forth effort. They start moving to the right, with O'Connor using his size advantage to move Duce into the corner. The ref calls for the break, and O'Connor raises his hands... before stepping in with a forearm to the side of the head! The ref is upset at the blatant strike, but before he can say anything else, Duce shakes it off and darts forward, tackling O'Connor to the mat! The two men start slugging it out, rolling back and forth, to the cheers of the crowd in attendance! The tension between the two wrestlers has now broken wide open, with Duce firing as many shots as he can, with O'Connor just as willing to throw his own shots back.*

Rockwell: We've got ourselves a brawl!

Hood: What did you expect with these two guys? Duce has been wanting to measure dicks with Mack ever since he showed up here!

Rockwell: Again with Duce's private parts?

Hood: I told you, they're haunting me...

*O'Connor has taken control of the brawl, having gotten up with Duce and delivered a few jab-hook combinations to throw him off. He knocks Duce back into the corner, ramming him multiple times with his shoulder to knock the breath from him. O'Connor then pulls Duce back up, throwing him to the ropes. As Duce returns, O'Connor drops a shoulder and spins, powerslamming Duce into the canvas! O'Connor makes the cover, hanging on, as the ref counts... 1... and Duce kicks out right at two, showing a lot of fight left. O'Connor pulls him up and goes back to the corner, no, reversal from Duce sends Mack instead. He hits, then immediately gets hit again as Duce leaps in with a running cornered Yakuza kick!! O'Connor crashes hard to the mat, with Duce dropping onto him... 1... but O'Connor almost immediately grabs the nearby ropes, making sure to stop the count.*

Rockwell: Both wrestlers are taking their shots, and we're just getting started!

Hood: Hey, if the Claymore or Hollow Point lands, this one's over in seconds, Adrian.

Rockwell: The same could be said for the Krayzed Knee or the Duce of Clubs, Hood.

Hood: Not if Mack O'Connor has anything to say about it!

*Both wrestlers have gotten back up now, with Duce reaching for O'Connor's head. But O'Connor manages a low knee to the gut, stopping him in his tracks. O'Connor then punches away at Duce, driving him backwards to the corner, where he starts peppering him with several combinations. He goes for a strong uppercut, but Duce blocks it, then spins O'Connor into the corner, delivering his own series of punches and chops! The fans are loving the continuous action, even as O'Connor shrugs off one final punch, pushing Duce back and coming out with a clothesline, taking him down! O'Connor takes a second to get up, as this match is starting to take its toll on both men. He pulls at Duce's hair to get him up, but Duce then lashes out, grabbing O'Connor... and sending both men toppling through the ropes to the outside!*

Rockwell: Geez! These guys may not have fully hated each other before this match, but this one sure feels personal!

Hood: This is about Mack proving to the world that he hasn't lost anything since his prison stretch. He wants his shot at the title!

Rockwell: But for Duce Jones, it's a way of confirming that the last several months of sweat and blood have been worth it, and all have led up to this!

*It takes a moment for both wrestlers to get up off the floor. O'Connor manages it first, landing a right hand into Duce's jaw that sends him to his knees. O'Connor then latches onto Duce's head and bounces it off the edge of the apron, dropping him to the outside mat. O'Connor rubs a hand across his lips, expecting to see blood, which is exactly what is there. He spits to the side, before grabbing at Duce, showing some anger by tossing him hard into the guardrail, to the delight of the fans sitting there. Duce struggles back up, wincing from the pain, but O'Connor's not done with him yet, kicking him before delivering a snap DDT on the floor!! Duce is down, as O'Connor pulls himself up, heading back to slide into the ring.*

Rockwell: Duce is in serious trouble right now, as the ref is already halfway through his count!

Hood: Thattaboy, Mack! Way to put him away!

Rockwell: Why would he want to win a #1 contendership via countout?

Hood: Nothing wrong with using what the rules give you, man!

*O'Connor waits in the ring, with his emotions impossible to read, as he waits for the referee to continue his count. The referee reaches 7... 8... 9... and Duce somehow pushes up and slides into the ring in time, in one burst! O'Connor seems to appreciate that, although he's quick to stomp on Duce a few times to keep him honest. He drags Duce to his feet, talking to him for a second about being ready for the big leagues, before he snatches Duce by the head to drop for the Hollow Point (Stunner)!! But Duce gets free, not taking the trip to the mat! As O'Connor sits on the mat, surprised, Duce rebounds off the ropes and comes back, hitting him in the back of the head with the D-Trigga!! Duce drops on top, gasping, as the ref counts... 1... 2... but no, Mack O'Connor manages to throw his shoulder in the air in time.*

Rockwell: Duce Jones' knees can be lethal weapons!

Hood: He got them from his father, he didn't earn them!

Rockwell: Even if that's true, and I don't see it that way, it doesn't change the fact that Jones nearly put this one away right there!

*Duce pulls O'Connor back up, determined to keep up his assault now that he's got the advantage. He lifts O'Connor up, starting the series of suplexes into neckbreakers that make up the Eye of the Hurricane!! After the third neckbreaker, Duce makes another cover, trying to hold O'Connor down... 1... 2... but he can't manage it, as O'Connor still escapes! Duce, nodding in respect, pulls O'Connor up one more time, giving him a snapmare into the corner. Duce then follows, charging for the crossbody that starts off the Duce's Wild! He connects, causing O'Connor to stumble forward, even as Duce goes to the outside. He starts to spring back in, but O'Connor launches a sudden uppercut, checking Duce on the way up... and sending Duce flying out of control backwards, crashing hard on top of the railing!!!*

Rockwell: Oh my god!! What a horrible landing!!

Hood: Man, I hope the paying customers there are okay!

*The referee slides out of the ring and rushes over, checking on Duce Jones, while other security members are making sure the fans at ringside weren't hit too badly. They look shook up, but not injured. Duce, though, is a different story, slumping to the ground while hanging onto his left arm. It looks like he may have dislocated it on the landing, while trying to save himself! O'Connor stays in the ring while leaning on the ropes. It's hard to tell how he feels about the situation, although he clearly reacted on instinct. He didn't intend to send his opponent flying quite that hard. The referee looks like he wants to call the match, turning towards the timekeeper and Minos, but Duce stops him with his right arm, shaking his head furiously. He argues with the ref, as the fans seem split on what they want to happen.*

Rockwell: I hate to say it, but if that arm is truly dislocated, there could also be some ligament damage. The ref really should end the match.

Hood: Hell yeah he should! Duce may not be my favorite wrestler, but the fans like him, and I'd hate to see his career end here and cost us some revenue in the next year.

Rockwell: Very sympathetic, Hood.

Hood: Hey, look, I call it like I see it. This match should be over, Mack's the #1 contender.

*The ref shakes his head at Duce, saying that he's got his welfare in mind. Duce responds by turning to the railing, hammering his shoulder against it!! The ref's jaw drops, even as Duce starts flexing his hurting arm, showing that he's managed to get it back in working order. The pain has to be intense, but Duce doesn't seem to care. He slowly goes back to the ring, with the crowd now cheering him on as he painfully pulls himself up with his right arm. O'Connor gestures to him, an "Are you sure?" gesture. Duce responds by stepping through the ropes and facing off against O'Connor, daring him to come on forward. O'Connor, not wanting to be rude, accepts the invitation, stepping in and blocking Duce's obvious right hook, popping him with several jabs to drive him backwards.*

Rockwell: We're really continuing with this one??

Hood: It always amazes me when these guys' egos won't let them walk away.

Rockwell: Duce's heart is just too big to just quit, not when his dream of going for the World Title is still alive!

Hood: That dream, as slim as it was, died when he hit the guardrail.

*O'Connor keeps up the attack, pounding away on Duce in the ropes. The referee finally slides back in, deciding that he'll let the match go a little longer. He gives a warning to O'Connor, who responds by shooting Duce in the opposite direction. As Duce returns, O'Connor charges, hitting a spear to drive his foe to the canvas! O'Connor makes the cover, looking to end it... 1... 2... No! Duce kicks out! O'Connor gets up, dragging Duce along with him. He lifts Duce up, bodyslamming him to the canvas, then goes around him, delivering a Garvin stomp variation to work the wrestler over on every side. Duce struggles to get up to stop the barrage, but O'Connor is ready for this, grabbing Duce by the head and delivering the Claymore (Rock Bottom)!!! The move hits perfectly, with Duce toppling backwards afterwards, landing under the ropes. O'Connor stops him from sliding any further, pulling him further in for the pin... 1... 2... but Duce's ankle lands on the ropes, breaking up the count!*

Rockwell: That was almost it, but Duce managed to reach the ropes!

Hood: You notice he couldn't even reach out with his left arm? He had to use his foot. If the moron keeps this up, Mack'll end up paralyzing him or something!

*O'Connor looks like he thinks this one should be over, too. He jaws with the referee for a moment before getting up, spitting a little blood to the side again. Duce is still down, hurting, so O'Connor grabs him by his legs and drags him away from the ropes, before opting to try another cover... 1... 2... but Duce still gets up in time! The crowd is heavily split between the two wrestlers now, with some wanting to pull for Duce, while the others wanting Mack to finish it. He seems to be ready to do that as well, pulling up Duce to once again go for Hollow Point! But Duce blocks it, instead lifting O'Connor up one-handed with a back suplex!! Both wrestlers are down now, with O'Connor stunned, while Duce uses the time to pull himself back together.*

Rockwell: He's still got some fight left!

Hood: For God's sake, why? Just let it end, Duce!

Rockwell: He'll fight on, no matter his condition!

*Both wrestlers struggle to their feet, with O'Connor stepping forward to try to take back over. But Duce jumps up, scoring a knee to O'Connor's chest that drives him back to the ropes! Duce runs forward, leaping again with other knee strike that knocks O'Connor back, keeping him off-balance. Duce then scores with a right hand, followed by grabbing O'Connor's head and getting a running one-handed bulldog! O'Connor shakes his head on the mat and works to sit up, but it's a mistake, as Duce has already run to the ropes and returns... scoring with the Krayzed Knee!!!! The fans erupt, as O'Connor topples backwards to the mat. After a few seconds, Duce crawls over for the cover, as the ref drops his hand... 1... 2... 3, NO!!!! O'Connor kicks out with no space left, surviving!!*

Rockwell: I thought that was it!!

Hood: So did I!

Rockwell: Even with one arm, Duce is proving he's a warrior! But O'Connor's a multi-time World Champion, it takes a hell of a lot to put him down!

*Duce looks weary, having thought he'd managed the victory. He slowly gets up, only really willing to use his right arm to help him rise. O'Connor's still down, breathing heavily after the shot he took. Duce stumbles over to him, dragging O'Connor up, wanting to lock him up for the start of the Duce of Clubs! He goes for the Ripcord headbutt, but his weakened arm makes it hard to hang on. O'Connor then lashes out with a kick, then grabs hold to go for another Claymore! But Duce fights him off with his right hand, then turns and lifts O'Connor up, setting him up for the Final Tic 2.0!!! But again the arm is an issue, as Duce can't quite secure O'Connor, which allows him to slip off of Duce's shoulders and kick him... before delivering Hollow Point!!!! Duce stands straight up for a second before toppling backwards to the mat! O'Connor drags himself on top, making the pin... 1.... 2.... 3!!!!!*

Minos: Here is your winner... and the new #1 Contender to the GCWA World Heavyweight Title.... Mack O'Connor!!!

Hood: Mack did it! His run continues!

Rockwell: Duce came so close, but his injury was just too severe!

Hood: You can't beat a guy like Mack with a bad wing, that's for sure!

Rockwell: So now we know, whoever wins tonight in our main event, they've got Mack O'Connor as their next challenge!

Hood: How would you like to have that possibility in front of you? Man, but Dylan Thomas vs. Mack O'Connor will be incredible!

Rockwell: Or Ed Houston vs. Mack O'Connor.

Hood: Eh, I prefer my version...

*O'Connor doesn't spend too much time celebrating, merely acknowledging the crowd with another raised arm. He looks back at the hurting Duce Jones, but he doesn't go to him, instead stepping through the ropes and departing. Duce clutches at his left arm, looking a little crushed. The referee goes to him, but Duce just shrugs him off, not wanting any sympathy at the moment. We cut away.*

*We're backstage now, as Dylan Thomas appears to be pacing back and forth. Beside him, Lissandra is on the phone once again, but having no luck. Dave Branson then walks up, nodding to both of them. Lissandra hangs up the phone, having been unable to reach The Incredible One. She shakes her head to Dylan, but Dylan just shrugs it off. He knows it's his destiny to be in this place. They start to walk off.*

*The screen cuts to another image, this one of Ed Houston doing one last shine to the GCWA World Heavyweight Title. He looks over at Bob Black, who nods at him with confidence. Houston pats him on the shoulder before turning and departing, getting ready for another fierce battle. Bob watches him go, hiding his nervousness as best he can before Houston gets out of sight. He then takes a seat heavily to the side, prepared to watch the match from the dressing room. We go back to ringside, where Minos has already entered the ring.*

GCWA World Heavyweight Title match
Ed Houston(c) (10-2) vs. Dylan Thomas (6-4)

*The review video rolls one more time, this time starting with Ed Houston's bloody, violent victory over The Big Bifford at Darkness Falls in a Razor-Wire Steel Cage match to become the GCWA World Champion. We see the events afterwards, with Jonathan Barrows announcing that Houston's opponent at the next PPV was already chosen. The Incredible One then came out as a distraction, as Dylan Thomas then ambushed Houston from behind, showing himself to be the #1 contender. The A-List would continue to double and triple-team Houston for the next month whenever possible, with Houston finding his own allies in Jack Puffer, Mike Zybala, and The Danger Boiz to help him even the odds. We see images from the TIO birthday celebration again, as well as Houston landing the finishing touch to put away The Incredible One in their tag-team bout last week. The two men are shown facing off once more, before we cut away to head to Minos in the ring.*

Minos:The next match is scheduled for one fall, and will be for the GCWA World Heavyweight Championship!!

*The crowd still has plenty of energy here in Cali, as they give a sizable roar at the announcement.*

Minos: Introducing first, the challenger... standing 6'2" and weighing 225 lbs... from Greenwich, Connecticut, but currently residing in Hollywood, California... coming to the ring with Lissandra Thomas and "The A-List Fixer" Dave Branson... a former GCWA Unified X Division Champion... "Perfection Personified" Dylan Thomas!!

*'Watch Me Shine' by Fozzy starts up and Dylan Thomas emerges through the curtain arm in arm with his wife Lissandra Thomas. Both have a huge air of arrogance about them. The arena is FILLED with boos at these two. Does it phase them? Not in the least. They make their way to the ring with huge smirks on their faces and Dylan helps Lissandra up onto the apron, holding the ring ropes open for her. Dave Branson walks quietly behind them, menancingly. Lissandra climbs through and kisses her man as she does so. In the ring, Dylan arrogantly shouts at the people whilst on the nearest corner and Lissandra stays in the ring showing off her man, applauding. As the music dies down, Dylan helps his wife out of the ring before going to talk to Branson.*

Hood: I'm really excited that Dylan & Lissandra are having a daughter!

Rockwell: Okay... I'm going to assume your reasons for that are not as creepy as it sounds?

Hood: Creepy? I'm talking about getting to be the Voice for the newest member of The A-List once she's born!

Rockwell: Ahh, okay. Well, Dylan's certainly been excited since the announcement. I just hope he didn't party too hard, as that could affect his chances here tonight.

Hood: His chances to become World Champion? They're perfect as always, Adrian!

Minos: His opponent... standing 5'9" and weighing 175 lbs... from Miami, Florida... he is the current, reigning, GCWA Heavyweight Champion of the World... "The Rocketman" Ed Houston!!

*The screen turns black and then slowly starts to count down from 10. Once it hits 1 the sound of a rocket taking off echoes throughout the arena. You're Gonna Go Far, Kid starts to blare as Ed Houston slowly makes his way down the entrance ramp. The World Championship glows around his waist. He stops by fans in the crowd and high fives them. Once he gets about half way down the ramp, he sprints and slides under the rope. He quickly jumps to his feet and makes his way up to the turnbuckle where he waves to the crowd.*

Rockwell: Word has it Houston might have been present during a violent confrontation between feuding criminal enterprises this past week.

Hood: That alone should be enough for the Barrows to strip him of the belt.

Rockwell: I see no reason for them to go to such an extreme decision, Hood.

Hood: The guy has been seen with members of the mob! He might throw a match for money at any moment!

Rockwell: Wouldn't that make Thomas the champion, if Houston throws it tonight?

Hood: Oh, good point...

*The Bell Rings.*

Rockwell: It's time to decide the World Championship!

Hood: Yes! I'm been waiting for this moment all night! A-List, A-World Champion!

Rockwell: That's terrible...

Hood: Yeah, didn't flow, did it? I'll work on it...

*Houston is bouncing from foot to foot, extremely eager to get this one going. Dylan Thomas appears to be the same, smiling that usual smirk as he steps forward, challenging Houston to come get him. Houston moves towards him, set to lock up... and Thomas backs away, avoiding him. Houston stops, raising his shoulders as if to ask, "Do you want to fight?" Thomas, though, doesn't seem phased, still shouting a couple of choice comments Houston's way about the A-List. Houston goes for him again, trying to grab him, but Thomas moves away again, circling around the ring. He seems to think it's funny, turning towards where Lissandra is up on the steps and laughing with her. Houston immediately charges again, grabbing at Thomas, who darts forward into the corner... bumping Lissandra, who stumbles down the steps and falls to the floor!! Dylan, seeing this, immediately drops and rolls out of the ring, heading to his wife, as Houston leans over the ropes.*

Hood: Oh no!! Lissie!!

Rockwell: Dylan barely touched her, I don't get it...

Hood: She's pregnant, Adrian!! That's all that matters right now!

*Dylan checks on Lissandra, who's still down, looking to be in pain. Dylan, concerned, yells at the referee to do something. The referee comes out, although he doesn't exactly look sure what to do as well. He starts signalling towards the back, wanting a doctor to come out. Houston, still in the ring, looks unsure at the moment. He wants to take down Dylan, but nobody wants to see a pregnant woman in distress. However, he's also a little distracted, which allows Dave Branson to suddenly come into the ring behind him, advancing on the champion! The crowd tries to warn Houston, but he turns around too late, with Branson immediately grabbing him by the throat and lifting him up, hitting a surprise FIXED! Chokeslam!!! The crowd is booing heavily as Branson just as quickly leaves the ring, jumping to the outside and ducking down. Hearing the noise, the referee turns, but is distracted as Dylan Thomas suddenly slides back into the ring and goes for the cover! Lissandra, suddenly straightening up, orders the ref to get in, and a confused ref does so, making the count... 1... 2... 3, NO! Houston shoots a shoulder up in time!*

Hood: That was 3, ref!

Rockwell: It was all a set-up! Lissandra was never hurt at all!

Hood: Sure she was, but she's a Thomas, and she's got a Thomas inside of her! That gives her amazing recuperative powers!

Rockwell: And that, friends, is the bullshit that comes from the voice of the A-List!

Hood: Thanks, HEY!

*Branson has moved around the ring now, coming to Lissandra's side and 'checking on her'. The referee looks extremely suspicious, thinking he knows what happened, but with no proof, he can't do anything. In the ring, Thomas is on the attack, stomping away on the stunned World Champion. He grabs Houston's legs, then sets and springs off of them, getting his patented senton leg drop to land! He makes another cover, with the referee right there... 1... 2... but Houston still manages to kick out. Thomas, not stopping, says a few snarky comments to Houston about just giving up. He pulls Houston up, locking onto him and taking him over with a suplex. Thomas spins his legs and brings the men back up, landing a second suplex, followed by a third to complete the Three Amigos trilogy. He makes another cover, grabbing at the legs (and the tights).... 1... 2... but no, Houston's refusing to stay down!*

Hood: It's complete domination! Absolutely perfect!

Rockwell: While the actions from Branson are despicable, I have to admit, it's not looking good for the World Champion...

Hood: Houston should just tap out now. He should realize he's completely outclassed!

*Dylan Thomas is back up now, looking extremely cocky. Everything is going just as he expected it to. He pulls Houston up, pancaking him in the face out of mockery to shove him to his knees. He locks onto Houston, working to pull him back up... and Houston drops with a jawbreaker, sending Thomas staggering away from him! Thomas rubs his jaw, checking to make sure he hasn't lost any teeth. He angrily turns back, snapping at Houston to just quit, as he grabs him again, no, Houston pushes off, then launches a kick into Thomas' abdomen, bending him over! Houston then grabs Thomas by the head and leaps, dropping him to the mat with a facebuster! Thomas kicks his feet on the canvas, holding his nose, as Houston flops onto his back, breathing heavily. The fans are loving it, even as Lissandra & Dave pound the mat on the outside, upset at the maneuver that could have damaged Dylan's face.*

Rockwell: The champ's still in this one!

Hood: That was illegal! Houston should be disqualified!

Rockwell: If Houston is DQ'ed, he keeps the title, Hood, remember?

Hood: Fuck, that's right... don't do it, ref, but order Houston to follow all the rules!

*Houston sits up, holding the back of his head. He sees Thomas getting back to his feet, so Houston twists over to the ropes to pull himself up. Thomas comes from behind, trying to grab hold... and Houston leaps with perfect timing, landing a Pele kick!! Thomas falls backwards, stunned, even as Houston steps out onto the apron, grabbing hold of the ropes. As Thomas gets up, Houston leaps into the air with a springboard, flying in with a crossbody splash! It lands beautifully, with Houston ending up on top of Thomas on the mat for the ref to make the count... 1... 2... and Thomas kicks out! Both wrestlers get themselves back up, with Thomas swinging wildly, only for Houston to avoid it, then grab him and come off with a cradle suplex! He hangs on, as the ref is there again.... 1... 2... No, Thomas kicks out again. We see Lissandra on the outside, looking a little nervous as she talks over strategy with Branson.*

Rockwell: Houston is regaining all the momentum after that earlier assault from Branson.

Hood: Someone, find The Incredible One and get him out here too!

Rockwell: The last I heard, Hood, TIO was seen leaving the arena, with Knux. I don't think they're here anymore.

Hood: I'm calling him now... huh, it switched over to voicemail? His battery must be dead.

Rockwell: Yeah, I'm sure that's it.

Hood: TIO! Call me back!

*Houston has Thomas back up once again, feeling the power of all of the fans who are cheering for him at this moment. He sends Thomas into the corner, then runs in after him. Thomas rolls out of the way along the ropes, hoping that Houston crashes into the turnbuckle, but Houston just climbs up instead, balancing himself. Before Houston can leap, though, Thomas turns and knocks his legs out from under him, dropping Houston onto the top turnbuckle! He groans from the hit, leaning forward, but Thomas reaches up and grabs him, causing Houston to fall backwards into the Tree of Woe! Thomas then starts punching and kicking away at him, taking full advantage of Houston being trapped, as the referee tries to move in to break it up.*

Rockwell: Vintage Dylan Thomas, taking advantage of whatever he can...

Hood: Pound him like a punching bag, Dylan! That's what I like to see!

Rockwell: C'mon, ref, get him to back off and get Houston free!

*Finally, the ref drives Thomas away from the corner, as Houston weakly struggles to free himself. He starts to loosen his leg, but suddenly Branson is reaching through the ropes, popping Houston in the mouth! Houston stays hanging there, stunned, as Thomas returns. He pulls Houston up, dragging him onto the top turnbuckle. He looks like he fully wants to finish things here, as he gets Houston up higher, setting him up for a Perfect Finisher off the top! But before Thomas can drop back, Houston starts striking back with elbows, keeping the challenger off-balance. Houston then locks onto Thomas and comes off the top with him, landing a Spanish Fly!!! The place cheers, even as the champion rolls into the cover... 1... 2... but Thomas is able to kick out before the third slap lands!*

Rockwell: Houston's amazing as a wrestler, pulling off moves that few others would dare attempt!

Hood: Don't give him too much praise, Adrian. He only looked so good doing that move because it was Dylan in there with him!

Rockwell: What??

Hood: Dylan even makes other wrestlers look closer to perfection!

*Houston gets back to his feet, shuddering slightly from what might be a back spasm. He moves to the side, prepping himself, preparing to unleash Houston, We Have A Problem! The superkick is set, as Dylan Thomas tries to recover and stand up. Lissandra, seeing her husband in distress, jumps up on the apron, arguing with the referee about how he's being treated. Houston starts to move forward... then spins, lashing out with his superkick in the other direction, catching Dave Branson as he climbs onto the apron!! Branson falls backwards, with Houston looking thrilled at having gotten the chance to deliver some payback. He turns back... and Dylan grabs hold of him, turning and sending Houston barreling into the back of the referee!!! The ref falls to the ground, badly stunned, as Lissandra hops off the apron, smiling widely.*

Rockwell: The ref's down!

Hood: Yeah, too bad for... what's his name...

Rockwell: Y'know, we really need to learn the names of the refs who work with us.

Hood: Probably so, but who's got time for that?

*With the referee flat on his stomach, not moving, he appears out of this one. Houston pulls himself back up, having weathered the collision a little easier since he could brace for it. He turns back to Thomas, who comes in hard, lashing out with a big kick between the legs!!! Houston immediately keels over, badly hurting, as Thomas drops back to his knees, using the moment to catch his breath. The fans are booing heavily, but Thomas doesn't care at all. He looks pretty pleased with how things are going, sharing a dark smile with his wife outside the ring. He slowly gets up, turning back to the hurting Houston, who's trying to crawl towards the ropes. But Thomas doesn't let him get there, pulling him up... and delivering The Perfect Finisher!!!*

Hood: It's over!! New champion!!

Rockwell: There's no ref, Hood, thanks to Dylan Thomas' own actions!

Hood: Yeah, but help is on the way!!

*A second referee can be seen running down the aisleway, likely sent by one of the Barrows in response to his downed colleague. The ref slides in, as Thomas is still laying on top of Houston for the pinfall victory.... 1... 2... NO!!!! Houston's arm comes up!! Thomas can't believe it. He grabs onto Houston again, trying to hold him down this time... 1... 2... Kickout!! A third attempt... 1... 2... another Kickout! Thomas is beside himself, wanting to know why the referee took so long to get there. He jumps up, dragging Houston towards the ropes. With one motion, he throws Houston to the outside, basically disposing of him! The referee admonishes Thomas, then turns and starts helping his fellow ref to roll out of the ring and get out of the line of fire. In the meantime, on the outside, a recovered Branson angrily moves in, kicking away at Houston!*

Rockwell: Pay attention, ref!

Hood: Hey, ref! Over here! Yeah, that's right, look at the Voice of The A-List!

Rockwell: Stop that, Hood!

*After a few more kicks, Branson hauls Houston up, ruthlessly throwing him back into the ring. The referee finally turns around, but it's too late now, as Thomas moves in to continue the assault. He drags Houston away from the ropes, then applies his favorite Hollywood Cloverleaf submission, twisting Houston like a pretzel! The ref circles to check on the World Champion, who is feeling every ache and pain he's suffered in this contest. But Houston is shaking his head vigorously, refusing to give in to the man who's made his life so stressful the past month. Thomas leans back on the hold, while also insulting Houston, telling him it's time to quit acting like he's worth anything. He tells him to tap out and end the embarrassment of his title reign!*

Rockwell: Houston's fading!

Hood: You've got him, Dylan! Oh, the victory celebration tonight is going to be one for the record books! I can't wait!

Rockwell: Are you sure you'd be invited, Hood?

Hood: Of course I would1 I'm the Voice!

*As much as Thomas wants it to be over, Houston is still refusing to give in. He starts pushing off with his arms, gaining leverage to stop the pain. He starts crawling towards the ropes, even with Branson glaring at him from that side of the ring. Thomas tries to drag him back, but Houston uses the opportunity to gain leverage, grabbing at Thomas' legs and tripping him up.... allowing Houston to reverse the hold!! All of the sudden, it's Thomas in a Cloverleaf variation, yelling out as he's twisted up! Houston tries to hold onto the submission for a time, but the strain is too much for what he's already been through, and he has to let go, dropping to his hands and knees. Both wrestlers take a moment to recover, as the crowd gives a roar of approval for this one.*

Rockwell: Two of the greatest wrestlers in the world, giving the fans exactly what they wanted to see!

Hood: Not yet they haven't! Come on, Dylan, make me proud and bring that title home!

*Lissandra is back on the apron, now, threatening to step back into the ring. The referee blocks her, willing to call for a disqualification, which gives Lissandra pause. Behind them, Houston is working to get up, having trouble with his balance. He falls back towards the ropes, hanging onto them like a lifeline. Next to him, Dave Branson hops onto the apron, but Houston sees him, ducking under the clothesline attempt, then giving Branson a neckbreaker on the ropes, sending him flying! Houston then jumps up and rushes Dylan, going for the superkick, but Thomas ducks under it and gets behind Houston with a crucifix pin attempt, taking him down as Lissandra quickly gets the referee to turn around and dive in... 1... 2... NO!! Another close fall is escaped!*

Rockwell: Branson keeps getting involved! I wish Barrows had banned him from the match!

Hood: You can't ban The A-List Fixer! He's doing his job!

Rockwell: He's interfering in the match!

Hood: No, he's Fixing it!

*Thomas manages to get up first, giving Houston a rake of the back on his way up. As Houston staggers away, his flesh burning, Thomas comes after him mercilessly. He sends Houston's head crashing into the turnbuckle pad, dropping the champion to the mat. Thomas, running a hand through his hair, looks almost desperate at this point to put Houston away. He looks to the turnbuckle and decides to start climbing, going up!! He gets to the top, with the crowd going wild, knowing how rare this is. He leaps off, flying through the air with a top rope knee drop!!! But Houston moves out of the way before he can connect, causing Thomas to hit the mat instead!! Thomas rolls away, his leg badly hurt, as the fans go wild!*

Rockwell: Thomas went for it all, but Houston dodged the blow!

Hood: No! Dylan's perfect knee!!

Rockwell: It certainly doesn't feel perfect right now! Houston's got a chance now, if he's able to capitalize!

*Thomas grasps at the ropes, pulling himself up, limping from the hit he just delivered to the mat. Houston is getting up as well, with the two warriors facing off. Thomas comes forward with a swing, but Houston blocks it, dishing out his own punches! He works Thomas back towards the ropes, with the referee getting between the two men, trying to stop the closed-fist strikes. Houston backs off... as Branson is there, grabbing at Houston from behind! He tries to hang on, as Thomas 'accidentally' pulls the referee towards the ropes before charging forward... and Houston ducks, with Thomas hitting Branson with both fists!! Thomas, horrified, watches as Branson falls backwards to the canvas! He turns... and Houston leaps up, scoring with Houston, We've Got A Problem!!!! Thomas crumples, with Houston diving onto him. The ref finally gets turned back around... 1.... 2... NO!! Thomas kicks out!*

Rockwell: What's it going to take to end this one??

Hood: It'll take something Perfect!!! C'mon, Lissie, find the key and end this one!

*Houston drags Thomas painfully towards the corner, wanting this one settled once and for all. He turns ands starts up the turnbuckle, set to land his Blastoff finisher. As Houston gets to the top, though, Lissandra is suddenly up on the apron once more, this time throwing caution to the wind and actually grabbing hold of Houston's boot!! The referee runs over, arguing with Lissandra, telling her to get down. Houston pushes her off, with the threat of DQ very high. Lissandra pleads her case to the ref, even as Houston sets to leap... and now Thomas is there, stopping him!! He climbs up with Houston, punching away, trying to knock him from his perch and send him to the floor below!*

Rockwell: That was blatant, ref! Lissandra didn't even try to hide it!

Hood: She knew it was over if Houston hit his finisher, which meant it was anything goes!

Rockwell: That's not the way rules work!

Hood: Tell that to the ref, HE made the decision not to call it!

*The referee does look conflicted, but perhaps due to orders from the back, he's opted to let this one continue. Thomas is now up on the turnbuckle with Houston, setting him up for a superplex! He lifts, but Houston's hanging onto the ropes, preventing it! Houston then starts hitting Thomas with headbutts, with it taking three to finally send Thomas off the top rope and back to the canvas!! Lissandra cries out, slapping the mat with furious intensity to try and change things, but there's nothing she can do as Houston straightens up, looking towards the fans before taking flight with Blastoff (Shooting Star Press)!!!! He hits dead on target, crushing Dylan Thomas!! The referee starts the count... 1... 2... Branson pulls up on the ropes, but there's nothing he can do... 3!!!!*

Minos: Here is your winner... and still the GCWA Heavyweight Champion of the World.... "The Rocket Man" Ed Houston!!!

Hood: NOOOOOOOO!!!!

Rockwell: He's done it!!! Man, I thought Dylan Thomas had him several times!!

Hood: NOOOOOOO!!!!

Rockwell: It was an amazing effort from Thomas, but Ed Houston has proven once again that he's now one of the greats in the wrestling business right now!

Hood: NOOOOOOOO....

Rockwell: That's ENOUGH, HOOD!!!

Hood: ....

Rockwell: It was a hell of a match, easily one of the most competitive this year so far! I wouldn't be surprised to see this one in the running for Match of the Year! And what a night of wrestling action! We've seen it all tonight, wouldn't you agree, Hood?

Hood: ...

Rockwell: Okay, I think we broke him... for Hood, I'm Adrian Rockwell, saying thanks for joining us, and have a great night!

*We switch back to ringside, where Ed Houston is barely able to keep himself upright. He smile broadly as the World Title is handed back to him, though. Houston slowly makes his way over to the side, climbing up the turnbuckle step by step. He raises the belt above him... when "Vagabond" by The Greenskeepers begins to play! The fans turn, as a still sweaty Mack O'Connor steps out of the back. He stays on the stage, looking towards Houston with one of his trademark smiles. He nods to Houston, a man he knows well from OCW, making sure to remind him of what's coming next as we fade out.*

OOC: And we're done! This one came out a little later than I planned, so sorry about that. It's still on the same night, though, so I consider that a major success! Thanks to everyone who roleplayed their hearts out. I struggled on a couple of matches, showing how balanced many of you are in the wrestling world. We'll start our next journey this Friday, and I'm looking forward to everything coming next!

GCWA Friday Night Inferno

LIVE! Friday, February 28th, 2019

From the GCWA Arena, Dallas, TX

Opener

Erin Gordon vs. Peter "The Janitor" Vaughn

Mid-Card

Lucas Thames vs. Aaron Warthog

Anderson Haze vs. Ryot

Tony Savage vs. Chad Vargas

Main Event

TBD

Roleplaying will be from Sunday, February 24th to Wednesday, February 26th, giving you 4 days to post your roleplay. Remember, each must be in before 12:00am CST to count.

Good luck to all!