Post by Maddux Kingcade on May 9, 2017 15:41:44 GMT
Proving Grounds Wrestling Presents "Emergence" Super Show from the Mandalay Bay Events Center in Las Vegas, Nevada.
May 11, 2017
::The scene cuts to the parking lot where Aiden Morrow is pulling out his luggage from his trunk. He extends the handle on his suitcase and begins to roll it along next to him as he walks into the arena when Alex Kerns shows up with a microphone in hand, walking side by side with Aiden.::
Alex Kerns: Aiden! Aiden! I had to ask with everything that you’re going through… Dealing with a miscarriage and then breaking up with Sofie after it… It must be taking a toll on you, yeah?
::Aiden glares over at Alex as he keeps on walking and he shakes his head.::
Aiden Morrow: I’m fine. If anything, it motivates me even more.
Alex Kerns: Oh? How does it motivate you?
::Alex scoffs and rolls his eyes.::
Aiden Morrow: Come on, Alex, really? Did you take a class on how to have as much tact as Cass Baumer?
Alex Kerns: Speaking of Cass Baumer, can you explain your actions at FAW’s Delirium when you attacked her boyfriend, Jay Gallagher?
::Aiden shrugs his shoulders as he keeps walking.::
Aiden Morrow: I showed Cass what happens when you keep on pushing a man who lost almost everything… When you push a man who’s devastated. But not only did I make an example for Cass, but I made one for people like Eliza Valentine, who I’m fighting tonight. It was also an example for you, Alex, you need to tread lightly right now… These questions are mostly bullshit.
::Alex clears his throat as he keeps following Aiden.::
Alex Kerns: Got it. So when it comes to Eliza Valentine, what’s your gameplan for her? Do you want to share it with the rest of us?
::Aiden shakes his head as he makes it to his locker room door.::
Aiden Morrow: I’m not giving away my gameplan but I can tell you one thing… Eliza is going to get the greatest match of my life. She’s not going to know what’s coming, she’s going to get an Aiden Morrow that nobody has seen before. I dedicate this match tonight to Sofie, who may not be my wife anymore but she’ll always have a place in my heart, she’ll always be my friend… And I also dedicate it to my baby, V… Who we lost.
::Aiden sighs and shakes his head.::
Aiden Morrow: I’ve got to go. That’s enough.
::Aiden walks through his locker room door and closes it behind him.::
Alex Kerns: There you have it, folks, the Proving Grounds Champion has spoken.
::A pre-recorded video begins to play on the screen. The camera reveals a shot of the Mandalay Bay Events Center at night time. It then cuts to a small bench underneath a bunch of palm trees. Seated on the bench is Merlot Ayano. Despite the Vegas heat, Merlot is dressed in black Adidas hoodie plastered with Japanese kanji, a pair of black and white Adidas leggings, and a pair of Sam Edelman Greta sandals.
Merlot is hunched over which her elbows resting on her knee. Her hands are clasped together as her chin sits ontop of them. We quickly cut to her eyes. She appears to be staring off at something in the distance. There’s a particularly gleam in her eye—aggression, ambition, and mild annoyance mixed with a bit of determination.
Almost by happenstance, Merlot’s eyes glance over at the camera. She lets out a small sigh and then repositions her body just a bit. Merlot gazes into the camera’s lens for a decent amount of time before she starts speaking.::
Merlot Ayano: Why is Valor Championship so important to Merlot?
::She’s silent for a moment or two as her eyes lower to the ground. It seems as if she is contemplating what she wants to say::
Merlot Ayano: Is because, well, over past year or so...Merlot has felt like super big failure.
::Once again, she goes silent.::
Merlot Ayano: …
::A considerable amount of time passes before she starts speaking again.::
Merlot Ayano: 2016 was supposed to be Merlot’s big year, Merlot’s big break.
::She lets out another sigh.::
Merlot Ayano: At end of 2015, Merlot fought tooth and nail through big huge joshi tournament, and end was crowned Champion of Seishin. Was Merlot’s first shiny belt—was Merlot’s first world title. Merlot had skyrocketed past all competition and became face of Seishin. Was ready to carry company on hefty shoulders and take to new heights…
::There was a slight pause.::
Merlot Ayano: But then Seishin shut down, and was nothing Merlot could do.
::Her tone was lower.::
Merlot Ayano: At same time, was working in another Japanese promotion called NKP. Couple nights after becoming Champion of Seishin, Merlot became NKP Junior Champion.
::She nods her head a bit.::
Merlot Ayano: NKP was rebuilding. Had gotten away from tried and true Japanese traditions, and Merlot wanted to help bring them back…
::She shakes her head.::
Merlot Ayano: After capturing belt, went on super losing streak. Felt like bum and loser. Work super hard, but is like, could gain no traction. Eventually, lost belt to peer.
::Another slight pause.
Merlot Ayano: Merlot felt humiliated, embarrassed with self. But after awhile, set sights on rebuilding; even won a contendership match for big, big belt. But when came time for that match, failed too…
::She uses her right hand to run her fingers through her a hair a couple of times.::
Merlot Ayano: After that, Merlot floated and drifted like water. New promotion called INVADE: Japan formed. Worked there two matches—it closes. Merlot work a match for Perfect Ten—it closes…
::Merlot lets out what seems like small scream.::
Merlot Ayano: Merlot sick and tired of feeling like failure. Merlot sick and tired of wandering aimlessly. Merlot sick and tired of feeling like shit!
::She takes in a deep breath and exhales in an attempt to calm her nerves and settle herself.::
Merlot Ayano: For good while, Merlot was depressed and sad—not to proud to admit. Merlot took some time away from wrestling. Chilled at home, even learned guitar. However, when came to senses, Merlot decided she’d train harder than ever. Merlot decided she’d fight harder than ever. And because of that, here right now in Proving Grounds.
::She uses both of her hands to tussle her hair.::
Merlot Ayano: Why is Valor Championship so important to Merlot? Valor Championship is not about fame and fortune. And Merlot no want the championship because she lust after “new shiny.” No no—Valor Champion represents REDEMPTION. Maybe was failure before. Perhaps was waste of space before—but is not true now. Merlot is mighty warrior!
::She nods her head in affirmation.::
Merlot Ayano: Valor is defined as “great courage in the face of danger, especially in battle.” And in Merlot’s time in Proving Grounds, have shown just that. No matter who been tasked with, no matter what odds been, Merlot has simply knuckled up and fought—is what Merlot was taught to do. And, is what Merlot will do here tonight!
:Merlot nods once more.::
Merlot Ayano: Not intimidated by RJ Driscoll; proved at when we meet toe to toe two weeks ago. Not intimidated by Ethan Milo Thompson, because this time, will be no sneak attacks. This time, will actually have to look Merlot in the eyes before bludgeoning starts. Don’t care that he bigger, don’t care that he stronger—going to kick head off for laying knee on Merlot, and for ruining a good match.
::Silence persists for a bit as Merlot simply stares at the camera. After a while, she speaks once more.::
Merlot Ayano: Proving Grounds needs Valor Champion that will step to forefront and stand up tall. Proving Grounds needs Valor Champion that won’t buckle under pressure and weight of world. Proving Grounds needs Valor Champion that has vast amounts of Fighting Spirit. Proving Grounds needs Valor Champion that will fight till last dying breath…
::Slight pause.::
Merlot Ayano: Person is Merlot Ayano! Hai!
::The camera slowly fades out.::
Lizzie Jones versus Michael Alexander
~Lizzie starts the match up with several hard elbow shots, staggering Alexander. She drops him with a DDT for a quick cover but can only get a two count. She keeps on the pressure, making sure that Alexander couldn't get on the offensive as Jones drops him with her Botox Breaker Unprettier
for the victory.~
Winner: Lizzie Jones
::A not amused Kelly Rosen is walking backstage, when she spots Ethan Thompson sitting on some crates, casually tapping his phone’s screen. Mindful of their first, and luckily last meeting, she shakes her head, sour-faced and un-enthused by the perspective of having to interview someone who always managed to make her feel uncomfortable. Nonetheless, she had a job to do.::
Kelly Rosen: Ethan, do you mind a few questions?
::She stresses the word FEW, remembering how he tends to take everything so literally. Ethan puts his phone down next to him, the light smile fading from his face and leaving room for the usual unintelligible expression::
Ethan Thompson: That’s why you came here for, right? Let’s do it.
::He leaned back against the crates, crossing his arms over his chest. Not really the most promising start for the interviewer.::
Kelly Rosen: Tonight you’ll be facing RJ Driscoll and Merlot Ayano to crown the first Valor Champion. One might say you made things a lot harder for yourself, considering how this was meant to be a single match, until you ended the other semi-final in a contest, knocking them both down. Without a clear winner, the General Manager had no choice but to turn this into a triple threat match. How did you prepare yourself for this match?
Ethan Thompson: One opponent, two or ten, it doesn’t matter. You saw last week how this is going to end. Me standing on my feet, them laying on the floor.
::She rolls her eyes::
Kelly Rosen: Easy, when you jump them from behind…
Ethan Thompson: I don’t think this qualifies as a question, Kelly. But I just want to set it straight, they saw me coming. They couldn’t stop me.
Kelly Rosen: Actually Merlot was laying down outside the ring most of the time, but never mind. The point is, you caught them by surprise, something you can’t count on tonight. Truth being told, they will probably be waiting for their chance at retaliation, after your senseless attack.
::For the first time he raised his eyes, looking at her::
Ethan Thompson: Senseless? I just saw my sister knocked out and you say my attack was senseless?
Kelly Rosen: Well as we saw it wasn’t RJ you should have gone after.
Ethan Thompson: And how the hell could I have known. He was the last one who saw her, he was the most likely culprit.
::She shakes her head.::
Kelly Rosen: Seriously? You really thought a guy like RJ could have done something like that?
Ethan Thompson: I thought you were here to ask me about the match Kelly, not to question my actions.
Kelly Rosen: Your actions are what lead to this match though… Your chances would have undoubtedly been higher in a one on one match. What does it possibly mean for you becoming the first Valor Champion?
::A light chuckle anticipates Ethan’s words.::
Ethan Thompson: Money. Fame. Honor. Respect. Acknowledgement as the very best. That’s what you usually get as an answer to that question, right? Well none of those matter to me. So I guess that becoming Champion tonight will get me a fancy piece of gold to carry on the next fight.
::The interviewer seems taken aback from those words::
Kelly Rosen: Are you telling me that you really don’t care about being in a title match?
Ethan Thompson: I am saying that there are things I value more than a belt.
::With a threateningly look, he now stares right into the camera::
Ethan Thompson: RJ, what happen two weeks ago was my mistake. What is going to happen tonight will be a consequence of YOUR mistake.
::The moment when Kelly is about to ask him one more question, Ethan is already turning the corner at the end of the hallway::
:: Alex Kerns stands by the entrance door as the scene opens. All of the sudden the door opens and Larissa Jackson walks in. She is wearing a black dress and her hair is in a bun. She smiles at Alex and sets her bags down and stands next to him. ::
Alex Kerns: Larissa can I have a few words with you?
:: Larissa scoffs and looks at him and shakes her head. ::
Larissa Jackson: Pretty sure that is why I stood next to you, so that you could speak to the hottest wrestler here in PWG. Pretty simple right?
:: Alex nods his head and smiles. ::
Alex Kerns: Well, last show you distracted Bea Jett so that she lost her match. Why did you do that?
Larissa Jackson: It is simple I did it because I wanted to prove myself. I wanted to show the world that I am here to mean business and costing someone a match sounded like it would be a good idea. Now, as for why Bea, well I just feel that she thought she was better then what she is and I wanted to give her some humble pie. And now I walk into that ring and I will prove my worth, and hell wrestling can’t be that hard right?
:: She smiles as she looks at Alex, she picks up her bag and walks off leaving Alex standing there. ::
Brendan Callaghan versus Dexter Severin
~At the sound of the bell, Dexter charges at Brendan who is able to hit a big pop up powerbomb. Brendan then hypes up the crowd some before pulling Dexter to his feet and connects with his stalling falling chokebomb with Tongan death grip called Southie Glory
. Brendan makes the pin as the fans chant repeatedly “Choke! Choke!”~
Winner: Brendan Callaghan
::The scene cuts backstage to Ryan Callaghan standing in the gorilla position after Brendan Callaghan’s match. Ryan has a party hat on and there’s balloons and streamers, the works. Brendan walks through, just victorious, and Ryan pops off streamers in his face.::
Ryan Callaghan: YOU DID IT! YOU BEAT THAT DEXTER BITCH!
::Brendan looks at Ryan with a disappointed look.::
Brendan Callaghan: This is nice, Ryan, but… But where are the tacos!?
::Ryan places his hands on his sides and looks down, shaking his head disappointedly.::
Ryan Callaghan: Avalon… That fat ugly bitch got here and ate all of them. She made me watch too, it was HORRIBLE.
::Ryan pretends to cry when Brendan stomps his foot and clenches his fists.::
Brendan Callaghan: THAT MONSTER! I’M GOING TO KILL HER!
::Ryan cuts off Brendan and laughs.::
Ryan Callaghan: I’m kidding! Here’s the tacos!!
::Ryan snaps his fingers when a crew of people come carrying a table that’s full of tacos. Brendan’s brow furrows as he looks at the full table.::
Brendan Callaghan: What the hell? I need at least TWO tables of tacos.
::Ryan snaps his fingers again and another crew of people comes carrying a second table of tacos.::
Ryan Callaghan: I’ve got you bro.
Brendan Callaghan: This… This is amazing.
Ryan Callaghan: How happy are you right now?
Brendan Callaghan: I AM HAPPY! What about you? You have to be careful with how many of these you eat, you have that match with Natasha.
Ryan Callaghan: Ugh, Natasha.
Brendan Callaghan: You wanna taco bout it?
::Ryan scoffs and shakes his head.::
Ryan Callaghan: No, I don’t wanna taco bout it. Let’s just enjoy this taco celebration.
::The two brothers high five before they start to grab tacos and dig in. The scene fades away.::
::The scene opens with a view of Lizzie Jones talking to fans backstage. As she signs more autographs, Alex Kerns jogs along, hoping to catch up to her::
Alex: Lizzie?
::Lizzie turns, an unmovable grin etched into her face::
Lizzie: Hey!
::She signs another cap before handing it back to the young fan::
Alex: I was hoping to get your thoughts after your victory out there earlier tonight against Michael Alexander - your first ever pay-per-view win, too.
Lizzie: Absolutely, Alex. I can tell you that I'm feeling amazing right now, this is a high like I've never felt before. More than that, I feel it's a big step for me. First win last show, first pay-per-view win tonight...these are milestones in my fledgling career and I'm just happy to be ticking them off.
::Alex nods along with her::
Alex: As we can see, you've got quite a fan following. You were, of course, known even in your previous roles as interviewer and commentator, but it seems to have hit a new level now that you're competing. What do you think makes you so popular?
::Lizzie shrugs, almost appearing modest::
Lizzie: Look, if I'm being honest then I don't know really. I'm just me and people seem to like that, which makes me feel awesome. Trust me, the fan support really makes a world of difference when I'm out there, when they start chanting my name or - like here - stop me to ask for an autograph or a quick selfie.
Alex: Answers like that probably won't hurt your popularity, either! So, the fans will want to know, what's next for you here in Proving Grounds?
Lizzie: I'm just taking it one show at a time, Alex. Learning as I go, trying to get better with each passing day. I'm working harder in the gym and on the mats than ever before, and I've got fantastic support in terms of the trainers over at Anderson Fighting Systems. So what's next for me? I don't know. But whatever it is, I'll be ready.
::Alex nods and smiles::
Alex: Well, thank you for your time, Lizzie.
Lizzie: You're most welcome.
::She adds a big smile to that and waves to the camera, before returning her attention to the fans before her as the scene ends::
Bea Jett versus Larissa Jackson
~Larissa Jackson jumps Bea before the bell and smashes her head into the turnbuckle. She then spins her around and throws her shoulder first into the ring post. Jackson plays it up to the crowd for a bit allowing Jett to recover and charge her connecting with a spear. Both women slowly move to their feet but Larissa gets up first and kicks Jett square in the face, staggering her. Jackson then locks in her "B.G.T.S" (Bitch Go To Sleep) Dragon Sleeper until Jett passes out.~
Winner: Larissa Jackson
::The cameras move backstage where we see Natasha moving down the hallway with her hood up and a serious expression on her face.::
: Well well, if it isn’t little black riding hood?
::Natasha stops dead in her tracks, the voice could only be that of one person.::
Natasha: Ryan Callaghan.
::The mysterious woman slowly turns towards the sound of the voice. She walks towards a smiling Ryan with his arms crossed. Natasha stops in front of him and lowers her hood, staring at Callaghan in an attempt to intimidate him.::
Natasha: Tonight it all ends. The jokes. The attacks. The constantly beating you or a family member of yours at every show. I grow bored with your games, and I’m tired of wasting my time when I should be focusing on becoming a champion. Now, get out of my way.
::Ryan steps up closer to Natasha, getting in her way even further.::
Ryan Callaghan: One, don't tell me what to do. Two, my jokes are hilarious and you should be thankful that I took so much time coming up with them for you. You should maybe even pay me for it. And as for you being champion by now? Please! The only award you get is for somehow having red eyes and not being an ugly albino like Sarah Lacklan! You're just an ugly dark chick! Wait… That’s just as bad!
::Ryan laughs in Natasha’s face, but Natasha doesn’t seem to find it funny.::
Natasha: More jokes on appearance, is that an attempt to make up for your shortcomings in the ring? Tell me I’m wrong, but I’m certain that ever since Proving Grounds opened it’s doors, you have been on the losing end of every match you’ve had. Me? I’m yet to be defeated. I’ve pinned you, I watched you get so mad that you got yourself disqualified, all that is left is to bury you. And I will...tonight.
::Ryan laughs hysterically for a moment before his tone immediately switches to a serious one as he glares into Natasha’s eyes.::
Ryan Callaghan: You think I'm a joke, don't you? Good. That's what I want you and everyone to believe. But despite the lukewarm results I've had here, the fact of the matter is that I'm a fucking powerhouse. I'm a legit fighter, a boxer. I've knocked you out, I knocked Aoife out on accident for Christ sakes. And now? I'm going to knock you out again but this time? I won't need brass knuckles. I'm going to end this game between you and I and I'm going to prove to you and everyone else that I can beat anyone in Proving Grounds.
Natasha: You’re a joke…
::Without warning, Natasha slaps Ryan across the face with an open palm and then a sadistic smile crosses her face.::
Natasha: You aren’t a fighter, you’re all talk. Thanks for proving my point. I will see you out there.
::Natasha flips her hood up and turns to walk away when Ryan drives an elbow to the back of Natasha’s head and knocks her down. He immediately hops on top of her and begins to deliver left and right punches.::
Ryan Callaghan: Who’s the joke now, bitch!?
::As Natasha tries fighting back, backstage officials and event security rush in and pull Ryan off of Natasha. The boxer clearly did damage as Natasha sits up with a bloody lip. She smiles and licks the blood from her lip as Ryan is shouting at her while being pulled away as the cameras cut away from the two.::
Xavier Cain: Tag team titles, what do they mean to me?
:: Xavier Cain is on the outside of the arena. His match was right around the corner but he had walked out to the back. He needed to clear his head. He took a deep breath as he looked at the arena again and closed his eyes. ::
Xavier Cain: I have worked hard to get here for this moment. There have been times in this business that I have wondered what was going to happen, how I was going to be. I was thrown down misused and overlooked, so much so I walked away, but then I hit the gym and I honed my craft for this moment. The Hounds they might be good and they might have pulled a huge upset last show when they beat the Garden of Eden. I didn’t expect that I focused all of my attention of the Garden of Eden but here we are mere moments away from someone becoming the tag team champions here in PWG and I want it.
:: He smiles again and shakes his head once more. ::
Xavier Cain: I know I’m ready and I know I have been questioned by one Natasha, because she doesn’t think I can pull my weight and maybe that is why I have pushed myself maybe that is why I want to get better, to prove to her that Jared doesn’t make this team go, but we both do. Maybe she is blind because of it but you know what I will prove to everyone that we as a team are the best thing here. All we need is one more win and those titles will be handed to us and people will talk about us.
:: Xavier turns to walk towards the door when it is opened. On the other side is Jared Bishop he has a smile on his face as he walks over to Xavier and pounds him on the back. ::
Jared Bishop: I didn’t know where you were X-Baby! But I found you! You alright?
:: Xavier scoffs he closed his eyes and nodded his head. ::
Xavier Cain: Yeah, I just needed to clear my head Jared, I thought getting out here would be the best way to do it. No one was bothering me, but hey I got to go in and finish getting ready, don’t worry we’ve got this.
:: Xavier looks at his partner and grazes past him, he walks into the backstage area. Leaving Jared by himself. Jared looks at the camera and smiles. ::
Jared Bishop: I guess since I have you out here I should talk about how happy I am for this match baby! The Hounds, yeah they are good, that Brayden guy could probably break me right in half man!
:: Jared starts to bounce on his heels as he starts to shadow box a little bit. ::
Jared Bishop But they bigger they are, the harder they fall, and as for Jack Faith well damn for a pretty little thing she can hit hard as well and she could be the underdog in this match. I know them they are a team that is closer than Xavier and I mostly because they share a bed, but this isn’t a bedroom brawl this is a match in a ring and Xavier and I have proved ever since PWG opened its doors we are the best team in this company. Now we just need to validate it with a title and we will do that. Those titles are hand-made for us and we have one more match to get them and baby, we are getting them! Xavier and I might have come from different backgrounds, but we have the same goal and that is to be champions!
:: He winks as he turns around and walks back inside. ::
el Miedo w/Marisol Diablas versus "The Regal" Rayner Maxwell
~At the sound of the bell, Miedo offers hand to Maxwell who goes to take it but Miedo turns and levels him with a superkick much to the delight of Marisol. Miedo follow up with a trio of German suplexes before tossing Maxwell from the ring. Miedo follows out and throws Maxwell around ringside. Miedo keeps the pace, throwing Maxwell into the ring steps before rolling him into the ring. Miedo lifts Maxwell up in a chokeslam and drives him over on his knee and makes the cover for the win.~
Winner: el Miedo w/Marisol Diablas
::Kassi stands in front of a PGW Backdrop, where she would usually be smiling a little scowl sits on her face. She lets out a slight sigh and shakes her head. Dressed in a pair of silver and hot pink shorts and a matching cropped top, over the knee kickpads decorated with K&K complete her look as she flips back her long blonde hair.::
Kassi Taylor-Moore: Tonight, I am going to step into the ring with one of MANY who have disrespected me since my time here in The Grounds. Show after show I have gone out there and given it my all and yet…
::A sad look crosses her eyes and she folds her arms over her chest with a slight pout.::
Kassi Taylor-Moore: No one cares about what I have done in that ring, all they want to talk about is how I look… And you know, as someone who worked their butt off to be taken in by Maddux Kingcade, it’s insulting not only to me, but to Maddux and Kai as well.
::When she says Maddux’s name an obvious look of hurt pulls at her features.::
Kassi Taylor-Moore: A girl can only take so much, I have lost matches, I have lost my trainer and now, I am close to losing my resolve… Javi, when we step into that ring, I will do WHATEVER it takes to teach you what it really means to respect a woman and hey, maybe your girlfriend will thank me for it.
:: Larissa Jackson is standing in front of a mirror. She had just taken a shower so she had a towel wrapped around her body. She smirked when she noticed the camera was on her. She took a deep breath and began to speak. ::
Larissa Jackson: What I did to Bea Jett is just the start for me in this business. When I stepped in that ring, I thought that it might have been hard, but in all reality it was VERY easy.
:: She giggled a little bit as she started to brush her hair. ::
Larissa Jackson: I was told by everyone including my brother that I was being stupid for wanting to wrestle, that I would fall flat on my face before I became any good. But what did I show them? I showed them that I can do this that walking into that ring was VERY natural for me. Now, what do I want from this?
:: Another smirk as she walked over and grabbed her clothes. ::
Larissa Jackson: I keep going and I become someone in this company that people fear, that people realize that they cannot beat me, that no matter what happens I will stand tall and I will prove to my brother that I am still better than him.
:: A laugh escaped her mouth as she started to push the camera man away. The final shot is of the door closing and her towel falling to the floor. ::
Proving Grounds Tag Team Championships:
Ying and Yang (Jared Bishop & Xavier Cain) versus The Hounds (Jack Faith & Brayden Cole)
~Bishop and Cain start the match in dominant fashion clearing the ring. They keep up the pressure until Xavier Cain is able to drop Jack Faith with his "Gods Last Word" Tombstone for the win.~
Winners: Ying and Yang (Jared Bishop & Xavier Cain)
::The scene cuts to Alex Kerns standing backstage with Kaylee Cross::
Alex Kerns: Kaylee, everyone’s well aware of the bad blood between yourself and Weapon Avalon what I’m wondering is…
::Kaylee shakes her head while grabbing the mic and cutting Alex off.::
Kaylee Cross: Wait, wait, wait… hold up. Who gave her that nickname? That’s what I want to know. Weapon. Really?! A weapon should be lethal and precise, not plodding and hiding day old food in her folds. Sure there are five megaton bombs and Avalon could easily pass for one of those but weapons like that need the help of others. They need cranes and forklifts and ten strong men to load them into a plane and then push them out the back. All they’re good for is falling and hitting the ground really, really hard. And that’s all Avalon’s good for, falling down and making a mess. So while I’ll accept Bomb Avalon, I find Weapon Avalon to be retarded.
::Alex sighs.::
Alex Kerns: As I’m sure you’re aware Ms. Cross retard is a highly offensive word.
::Kaylee blinks over at him.::
Kaylee Cross: Oh, my bad. Are you part tard?
::Alex adjusts his glasses.::
Alex Kerns: Of course not, I just…
Kaylee Cross: It’s fine if you are. I had an uncle who was part retarded. Dad said he got kicked in the head by a colt when he was little.
::Kaylee nods and just stares at Alex who appears horrified.::
Alex Kerns: Lovely. Well what I was going to ask is, do you think Mateo Hacaga and yourself will function well as a team?
Kaylee Cross: Who?
Alex Kerns: Mateo Hacaga, your partner during the handicap match.
Kaylee Cross: Nope. Doesn’t sound familiar. Does he wrestle here?
Alex Kerns: Well he had been on the sidelines due to…
::Kaylee swipes the mic away from Kerns again.::
Kaylee Cross: Mateo Hacaga, Darien Hacaga, Hakuna Matata… it doesn’t matter who my partner is. This match is about me and Cow Pie. That’s all anyone cares about. If Hacaga bothers to show then yes, I’ll use this presence to my advantage. Should he be invisible like he has most of his Proving Grounds career then that’s fine too. Less shit for me to deal with.
::Alex’s brow furrows.::
Alex Kerns: I’m sorry, Cow Pie?
Kaylee Cross: Yeah, cuz she’s a cow and she smells like shit. Hey Kerns!
Alex Kerns: Yeah?
Kaylee Cross: Knock, knock.
::Alex appears hesitant.::
Alex Kerns: Um… who’s there?
Kaylee Cross: Interrupting cow.
Alex Kerns: Interrupting cow wh…
Kaylee Cross: MOOOOOOOOO!!
::And with that Kaylee takes her leave as a befuddled Alex Kerns looks towards the camera and shrugs.::
Kassi T Moore versus Javi Cruz
~Javi started out the match baiting Kassi some, stepping around her attempts to pinch and smack her ass. Eventually, Kassi grew tired of the games and evetually locked Javi up, her got the upper hand on her and the pair traded some blows before things got a little heavier. They had a mostly balanced match, with Kassi picking up the pin.~
Winner: Kassi T Moore
:: Xavier Cain and Jared Bishop step into the back. Xavier held one half of the tag titles on his shoulder while Jared had his on his waist already. He smiled at Xavier ad put his hand out for a hand shake. Xavier took it and smiled. ::
Xavier Cain: Congrats Jared…We deserve this.
Jared Bishop: Yes, we do…
:: A hand made its way around Jared and rested on his championship around his waist.::
: If anyone deserved it, it's you, Jared.
::The hand retreats as Jared turns around to see Natasha standing in front of him now, looking down at the gold around his waist.::
Natasha: The easy part is done, winning a championship. The hard part will be keeping it. I trust someone not to let you down.
::Natasha looks over Jared's shoulder, focusing her contact lensed eyes on Xavier Cain. Xavier shook his head as he looked over at Natasha. He smirked a little bit. ::
Xavier Cain: You don’t need to worry about me Natasha. Pretty sure I proved myself before and I will again, anyways, I’ll see you later Jared.
:: Xavier walked away as he looked back at them. Jared smiled and looked at Natasha. ::
Jared Bishop: You always have to be that hard on him?
:: He looked at the title again and smiled. ::
Jared Bishop: It feels great to have a title around my waist, and I am going to keep it all you need to do is beat the Callaghan.
Natasha: I'm proud of you. I knew you could do it.
::Natasha ran a finger over her previously bloody and still swollen lip, courtesy of her run-in with Ryan Callaghan earlier in the night.::
Natasha: I will do more than beat him, I'm ending him. He drew blood, my blood and now? I spill his.
::Taking in a deep breath, her eyes moved back to Jared's championship.::
Natasha: You are the best tag team wrestler in Proving Grounds, you stakes claim to that tonight. How does it feel?
:: Without thinking he touched her lip with his finger. It was out of instinct and he quickly pulled it away. ::
Jared Bishop: Yeah, I saw what happened all you need to do is pay him back, as for this title it is validation for Xavier and I. We walked into this company saying we were the best tag team here and we proved it. Now we just need to keep this momentum going, as for you. I have faith in you that you will win, and that you will hold a title in no time.
:: He smiled as he looked at her. He took a deep breath. ::
Jared Bishop: I know you are ready ba…Natasha.
::Natasha took a few steps back, nodding her head.::
Natasha: Time to Rise...
::With a smile, Natasha walked out of the frame, leaving the camera to focus in on one half of the newly crowned tag team champions.::
Mckena Hardy versus Las Espina w/ Aoife Byrne
~The match itself was pretty even until Espina took a hard hit to the ring post and was unable to continue. Annoyed by her technical victory, McKena dragged Espina to the middle of the ring, pulling her there by her hair, she flipped her over onto her back and bent down, pulling at the mask of the fallen Espina.
Before McKena was able to remove the mask, Aoife charged the ring and with a stiff right hook took McKena down to the mat like a sack of potatoes. She then rolls Espina from the ring and helps her on her way up the ramp before turning to admire her handiwork in the ring. ~
Winner: Mckena Hardy
::Kassi comes jumping through the curtain, a huge smile on her face as she dives into the waiting arms of her boyfriend, Kai Walker, letting out an excited squeal she kisses all over his face, full of excited, celebratory energy as he laughs along with her, holding her up, wrapped around his body.::
Kai Walker: I am so proud of you baby!
Kassi Taylor-Moore: I knew I could do it, no way I could fail with you in my corner!
::She jumps down but keeps her arms locked around him, kissing im again and again across his cheeks and on his lips as they both laugh, he steps back, holding her hands in his, they sway their now outstretched arms between them.::
Kassi Taylor-Moore: It all ends tonight, the laughing, the disrespect, we are a force to be reckoned with and people better watch out! Because the K&K Wrecking Crew are coming through!!
::He chuckles at her statement, pulling her back in close for another kiss before they turn and walk off down the hall to continue their celebration.::
::McKena storms down the hall, her face as mad as thunder as she walks up behind Afoife Byrne, shoving both hands into her back, she catches the Valet by surprise and Aoife goes down face first, McKena, clearly heated turns and takes her boot to Aoife’s mid-section,dropping down she starts to kick at Aoife’s ribs before wrapping her hand up in her hair, running her face first into the wall.::
::McKena drops Aoife to the floor again and just as she swings back for another kick, she is grabbed around the waist and yanked away by a large muscular arm.::
::Head of Security and aoife’s boyfriend, Markos Jimenez now stands between the two, McKena huffs loudly and shoves at him as well, yelling at him to get out the way but Markos doesn’t say anything, just shaking his head in a slow and measured way as he blocks McKena’s path to his downed fiancee.::
McKena Hardy: You know what?! FINE! Stand there like a big, dumb oaf and protect her, you won’t be able to do that forever… I am going to get her ass in that ring and then i’ll show the whole damn world why you don’t mess with a Hardy!
::She turns on her heels and storms off down the hall, once she is out of sight, Markos turns to check on the unconscious Aoife Byrne.::
Hardcore Handicap Match
Mateo Hacaga & Kaylee Cross versus Avalon
~This hardcore handicap starts before the bell can even ring with Mateo and Kaylee charging at Avalon only to be deterred when Avalon lunges forward and drops them both with a double clothesline. Wasting no time Avalon presses Kaylee high over her head and tosses her out over the ropes and beyond the guardrail where she lands amongst the scattering crowd and security. Avalon laughs but when she turns around she’s met by Mateo who immediately goes for an arm drag but Avalon doesn’t budge, she just laughs before grabbing Mateo by the skull with both hands and unleashing a series of headbutts that cause him to stumble away swinging at air before flopping on his face.
Cameras locate Kaylee who’s still amongst the crowd and seems to have recovered but instead of coming to the aid of her partner she’s eating popcorn and taking selfies with the fans.
Back in the ring Avalon is brutalizing Mateo hitting five release German suplexes in a row. Each time Mateo reaches out towards Kaylee for help and each time Kaylee smiles and waves. The brutal onslaught continues and as a beaten and bloody Mateo clings the ropes Kaylee hops over the barrier and whispers something in his ear while slipping him a pair of brass knuckles. Avalon lumbers over, grabbing Mateo by the hair but as she pulls him up she’s met with a right cross to the temple courtesy of the brass knuckles. At first she’s unfazed but then a trickle of blood drips down as she stumbles back a step. Mateo doesn’t waste any time greeting her with three more shots from the knucks as Avalon waves her arms to keep her balance and stumbles back against the ropes. Kaylee slides into the ring with two steel chairs and tosses one to Mateo. As Avalon rebounds from her stumble the pair greet her with not one, not two, but three conchairtos to the skull before the giant finally collapses to the mat. Mateo smiles and raises his hand for a high five but Kaylee drops him with a chair shot instead. Then she drags his limp body over and drapes it across Avalon for the three count, securing the victory for her team.
As Avalon and Mateo lie unconscious in the ring Kaylee slides back out and grabs a giant cowbell on a rope that she planted at ringside. Sliding back in she drapes the cowbell around Avalon’s neck and then slides back out with her hand raised to a mixed reaction from the crowd.~
Winners: Mateo Hacaga & Kaylee Cross
::Eliza sits backstage, she has on a large brimmed black hat with a veil cast over her eyes, she’s dressed in a long black maxi dress that covers her perfectly toned curves from her shoulders to her ankles. Her white blonde hair, twisted in a french plait runs down her back and the only color on her is her painted, blood red lip, that part with a soft, sorrowful sigh as she shakes her head.::
Eliza Valentine: We are here tonight to the mourn the many, many losses of Your champion Aiden Morrow…
::Her lips twist into a smirk and she leans towards the camera, snapping her eyes open she starts to laugh, a cold and hollow laugh that escapes from those perfectly painted lips.::
Eliza Valentine: Aiden Morrow claims himself to be a family man and yet, we have all seen him flirting and fucking around… Less than a week after this huge tragedy strikes the man you herald as Champion, he’s already trying to dip his wick in a new pool and for that I say… Bravo…
::She begins to sarcastically applaud him as she laughs again, letting out a shriek of laughter as she shakes her head.::
Eliza Valentine: Oh, Aiden, Aiden, Aiden… Seek solace now, because when I am done with you, you’ll be smeared across that canvas like the piece of fucking shit you are… You dedicate this match to a woman you abandoned, a woman who tried to kill herself whilst you were busy arguing with me and others on social media… You want to blame Cass Baumer for what happened? I applaud Cass for her candor…
I told you, when this all started, that I would take everything from you and from day one, I have been in your head and now here you stand tonight, a broken loser, a bucket of lies and tears strung together by a Championship belt you never truly earned..
But don’t worry Aiden, we are all here to mourn you, we will mourn your pathetic title reign, we will mourn your career and most importantly… NOBODY will mourn the loss of you from this industry when you realize what I have been saying all along…
You just can’t cut it!
::Eliza jumps towards the camera and claps her hands together loudly, tilting her head she presses her steepled fingers to her lips.::
Eliza Valentine: Oh and I dedicate this ass kicking to Mi Tigre, because after I tear you up Aiden, I’m going to be just revved enough to tear him up in ways someone like you would write home about for YEARS.
Valor Championship:
RJ Driscoll versus Ethan Milo Thompson versus Merlot Ayano
~As the match starts EMT jumps at RJ and pounds away on him with clubbing forearms before thrust kicking him through the ropes and out of the ring. Merlot then jumps at EMT, dropping him with a running elbow smash. Merlot goes for a straight jacket German suplex, holding it for the pin, only to have it broken up by RJ. Driscoll starts to work on the leg of Merlot only to get kicked away and leveled again by EMT. Throughout the match EMT focused on RJ and beating on him as much as possible. That tunnel vision allowed Merlot to connect with her Sorrow Bringer Running Punt for the cover and the victory.~
Winner: Merlot Ayano
::RJ pushes through the curtain, sweaty and obviously disappointed in himself for not being able to take home the Valor championship. Once again, Kelly Rosen has been waiting like a vulture. She ambushes him with her microphone.::
Kelly Rosen: Tough break out there tonight. Do you think that maybe your head just wasn't in the game? Your public rejection by a woman was pretty obvious and not to mention your friendship with EMT’s sister...
::There is a distinct look of anger on the normally demure man’s face.::
RJ: Look, I have told you a dozen times already to stick to relevant...
::There is a loud commotion and a man’s primal scream as suddenly someone leaps into the side of RJ, riding his body to the ground. The force causes the camera man to lose his balance and the scene is a blur until it settles upside down. It watches as the two man trade blows back and forth. Neither of them giving up until there is the commotion of security, pulling the men apart. The camera is then picked up and righted, watching as both men fight tve security guards with angry faces and heaving chests.::
EMT: Let me kill this no nothing clown!
::RJ rolls his eyes.::
RJ: Is that really the best you got? Really?
::EMT growls.::
EMT: I’m thinking! Okay!
RJ: Get on with it, we haven't got all day.
::RJ seemingly has started to calm down, taking deep steadying breaths to even out his erratic breathing where EMT still pants, watching him in apparent wonder.::
EMT: How do you do that? Calm down so fast?
::His tone has calmed down with genuine interest.::
RJ: Yoga, tai chi, meditation. When you suffer from a disorder like mine it's helpful.
::EMT shakes his head, realizing why he was angry in the first place.::
EMT: You were leading my sister on. Then you make a date with her boss! What the hell is that? I’m going to kill you!
::He once again fights the hold the security guard has while the ones holding RJ let him go. He shakes his head::
RJ: I am not the kind of guy to just look for another potential relationship. Heidi and I are friends. Jana is also my friend. I explained to Heidi and explained the situation. We ate cool so you should be too.
::He sighs, watching his words sink into the brain of the man in front of him.::
RJ: If I had a little sis I’d probably be protective too so can’t blame ya but in this case, there was nothing malicious meant.
::EMT swats the security away. He still looks disgruntled though.::
RJ: Think we can let it go now, Mate?
::EMT stares as RJ extends a hand toward him. Finally he simply shakes it and pulls his hand back quickly.::
EMT: Fine. Dropped but don’t think this makes us friends. I’ll be watching you and if you hurt Heidi I will pulverize you.
::He brushes back the brit as he walks away. Kelly Rosen once again steps forward but RJ holds up his hand.::
RJ: Go bother someone else.
::He then walks away and you can almost see a hint of new confidence in his walk.::
::The camera cuts backstage. Merlot Ayano is seated on a bench in the women’s locker room. Although a bit of time has passed since her match, Merlot is still dressed in her ring attire. The camera focuses on her upper body. Her hair is dark and nearly matted. Her face is still drenched—a mighty mixture of sweat and tears. As the camera zooms in on her eyes, we can see that her eyes are fixated on something.
Cut to Merlot’s lower body. The camera zooms in on the Proving Grounds Valor Championship cradled in her arms in a protective manner. The shot lingers on the image of the belt for a moment or two.::
Merlot Ayano: ...Please forgive. Merlot at a bit of loss for words at moment.
::She shakes her head as the camera shows a full shot of her body. It’s as if she’s trying to pull her head away from Cloud Nine and come back down to earth.::
Merlot Ayano: Before Valor Championship, Merlot poured her heart out. Merlot always try to be open and honest on and off camera, but this time, Merlot gave raw look into thoughts. Wanted everyone to understand just why Merlot fights with so much intensity, so much ferocity. And well, now know...
::There is a small pause.::
Merlot Ayano: After months and months of pain, after many trying times, Merlot sits before you as Proving Grounds Valor Champion. Is, is difficult to explain how Merlot feel right now. A bit sore, a bit proud, and a lot of thankful. If can imagine, everything feels so surreal. Hai…
::She shakes her head once more before she lifts her head and wipes her face with her left forearm. Merlot then looks directly into the camera.::
Merlot Ayano: Merlot said the Valor Championship represented redemption. Is very true. However, Merlot no redeemed by simply holding and obtaining championship. Redemption and restoration requires action—requires work.
::She slowly nods her head.::
Merlot Ayano: Merlot’s journey is not over yet; no, far from over. Now, is really time to knuckle up. Now, is really time to go out and fight. Merlot will hold held up high as she defends Valor Championship with honor and pride. That is true road to redemption. And on that road, are no games, no shenanigans. Just pure Fighting Spirit—is what this title needs, what Proving Grounds needs.
::Merlot slowly rises to her feet. She places the championship over her shoulder. After staring at the belt once more, she nods her head.::
Merlot Ayano: Hai...
Natasha versus Ryan Callaghan
~The match starts with Ryan dropping Natasha with a clothesline. She gets up and he goes for another but she dodges it. Ryan gets up and Natasha drives a knee into his gut before dropping him with a implant DDT. Natasha goes for a pin but Ryan refuses to stay down and the two got into a back and forth battle, trying to outdo the other until Ryan dodges a superkick from Natasha and slaps Natasha into an effective hammerlock. Before Natasha has a chance to attempt a reversal, Ryan takes her out out with a Modified lifting reverse STO, which he calls the Curse of Boston. He goes for the cover but Natasha kicks out at two, refusing to give up in the early going.
Ryan gets up and stalks Natasha, waiting for her to get up to her feet. He decides to exit the ring and climb up the turnbuckle. Natasha stirs and Ryan leaps off of the turnbuckle and goes for a diving clothesline but Natasha saw it coming a mile away and she drops Ryan with a brutal superkick counter that takes his head off. Natasha goes for the cover but Ryan manages to kick out at two. Natasha picks Callaghan up and whips him to the ropes but he counters and whips Natasha instead. She bounces off of them and Ryan connects with a cross body block that sends her to the floor and then he follows her out with a suicide dive between the ropes just as Natasha began to get up and he takes her out, sending them both crashing to the ground.
The referee begins to count the two out and Ryan gets in the ring at the seven count. Natasha slides back in at the nine count, just before the ten. Ryan picks Natasha up and lifts her for a suplex but she counters and lands behind his back. Ryan turns and Natasha drops him with an enziguri. Ryan is out of it as Natasha steps back into the corner. Ryan gets up to his feet and Natasha lets out and primal scream and then charges, nailing Ryan with a her brutal trademark clothesline called Hell Hath No Fury. She goes for the cover and Ryan looks out for the three count but before the referee counts to three, he just gets his foot on the ropes and the referee catches it. Natasha is in shock.
Natasha gets up and retreats to the corner. She waits for Ryan to get up and he begins to stir. He finally gets up and Natasha charges. She goes for another Hell Hath No Fury but Ryan ducks out of the way this time. As Natasha turns around, Ryan leaps in the air and nails her with a Superman Punch, which he calls The Pride of Southie. He pins Natasha but she’s near the ropes and at the two count, she reaches up and places her hand on the rope, showing her ring awareness. Another close call for the match. Ryan clearly looks frustrated as he begins to talk to the referee. He shakes his head before turning his attention back to Natasha.
As Ryan goes to pick Natasha up, she rolls him up with a small package. The count gets to two and Ryan manages to kick out. The two get up and Ryan charges at Natasha. Natasha grabs the top of the rope and pulls it down, sending the charging Ryan over it but he lands on the apron. Natasha turns and Ryan nails her with a forearm that sends her reeling. As Natasha tries to gather herself, Ryan springboards himself up off the of ropes, a move that nobody has ever seen him do before but he manages to pull it off and show his athleticism. As he is flying through the air towards Natasha, she looks up and is met by a brutal superman punch from Ryan. Ryan then goes for the cover and picks up the three count, getting a clean victory and his first victory in his career.~
May 11, 2017
::The scene cuts to the parking lot where Aiden Morrow is pulling out his luggage from his trunk. He extends the handle on his suitcase and begins to roll it along next to him as he walks into the arena when Alex Kerns shows up with a microphone in hand, walking side by side with Aiden.::
Alex Kerns: Aiden! Aiden! I had to ask with everything that you’re going through… Dealing with a miscarriage and then breaking up with Sofie after it… It must be taking a toll on you, yeah?
::Aiden glares over at Alex as he keeps on walking and he shakes his head.::
Aiden Morrow: I’m fine. If anything, it motivates me even more.
Alex Kerns: Oh? How does it motivate you?
::Alex scoffs and rolls his eyes.::
Aiden Morrow: Come on, Alex, really? Did you take a class on how to have as much tact as Cass Baumer?
Alex Kerns: Speaking of Cass Baumer, can you explain your actions at FAW’s Delirium when you attacked her boyfriend, Jay Gallagher?
::Aiden shrugs his shoulders as he keeps walking.::
Aiden Morrow: I showed Cass what happens when you keep on pushing a man who lost almost everything… When you push a man who’s devastated. But not only did I make an example for Cass, but I made one for people like Eliza Valentine, who I’m fighting tonight. It was also an example for you, Alex, you need to tread lightly right now… These questions are mostly bullshit.
::Alex clears his throat as he keeps following Aiden.::
Alex Kerns: Got it. So when it comes to Eliza Valentine, what’s your gameplan for her? Do you want to share it with the rest of us?
::Aiden shakes his head as he makes it to his locker room door.::
Aiden Morrow: I’m not giving away my gameplan but I can tell you one thing… Eliza is going to get the greatest match of my life. She’s not going to know what’s coming, she’s going to get an Aiden Morrow that nobody has seen before. I dedicate this match tonight to Sofie, who may not be my wife anymore but she’ll always have a place in my heart, she’ll always be my friend… And I also dedicate it to my baby, V… Who we lost.
::Aiden sighs and shakes his head.::
Aiden Morrow: I’ve got to go. That’s enough.
::Aiden walks through his locker room door and closes it behind him.::
Alex Kerns: There you have it, folks, the Proving Grounds Champion has spoken.
::A pre-recorded video begins to play on the screen. The camera reveals a shot of the Mandalay Bay Events Center at night time. It then cuts to a small bench underneath a bunch of palm trees. Seated on the bench is Merlot Ayano. Despite the Vegas heat, Merlot is dressed in black Adidas hoodie plastered with Japanese kanji, a pair of black and white Adidas leggings, and a pair of Sam Edelman Greta sandals.
Merlot is hunched over which her elbows resting on her knee. Her hands are clasped together as her chin sits ontop of them. We quickly cut to her eyes. She appears to be staring off at something in the distance. There’s a particularly gleam in her eye—aggression, ambition, and mild annoyance mixed with a bit of determination.
Almost by happenstance, Merlot’s eyes glance over at the camera. She lets out a small sigh and then repositions her body just a bit. Merlot gazes into the camera’s lens for a decent amount of time before she starts speaking.::
Merlot Ayano: Why is Valor Championship so important to Merlot?
::She’s silent for a moment or two as her eyes lower to the ground. It seems as if she is contemplating what she wants to say::
Merlot Ayano: Is because, well, over past year or so...Merlot has felt like super big failure.
::Once again, she goes silent.::
Merlot Ayano: …
::A considerable amount of time passes before she starts speaking again.::
Merlot Ayano: 2016 was supposed to be Merlot’s big year, Merlot’s big break.
::She lets out another sigh.::
Merlot Ayano: At end of 2015, Merlot fought tooth and nail through big huge joshi tournament, and end was crowned Champion of Seishin. Was Merlot’s first shiny belt—was Merlot’s first world title. Merlot had skyrocketed past all competition and became face of Seishin. Was ready to carry company on hefty shoulders and take to new heights…
::There was a slight pause.::
Merlot Ayano: But then Seishin shut down, and was nothing Merlot could do.
::Her tone was lower.::
Merlot Ayano: At same time, was working in another Japanese promotion called NKP. Couple nights after becoming Champion of Seishin, Merlot became NKP Junior Champion.
::She nods her head a bit.::
Merlot Ayano: NKP was rebuilding. Had gotten away from tried and true Japanese traditions, and Merlot wanted to help bring them back…
::She shakes her head.::
Merlot Ayano: After capturing belt, went on super losing streak. Felt like bum and loser. Work super hard, but is like, could gain no traction. Eventually, lost belt to peer.
::Another slight pause.
Merlot Ayano: Merlot felt humiliated, embarrassed with self. But after awhile, set sights on rebuilding; even won a contendership match for big, big belt. But when came time for that match, failed too…
::She uses her right hand to run her fingers through her a hair a couple of times.::
Merlot Ayano: After that, Merlot floated and drifted like water. New promotion called INVADE: Japan formed. Worked there two matches—it closes. Merlot work a match for Perfect Ten—it closes…
::Merlot lets out what seems like small scream.::
Merlot Ayano: Merlot sick and tired of feeling like failure. Merlot sick and tired of wandering aimlessly. Merlot sick and tired of feeling like shit!
::She takes in a deep breath and exhales in an attempt to calm her nerves and settle herself.::
Merlot Ayano: For good while, Merlot was depressed and sad—not to proud to admit. Merlot took some time away from wrestling. Chilled at home, even learned guitar. However, when came to senses, Merlot decided she’d train harder than ever. Merlot decided she’d fight harder than ever. And because of that, here right now in Proving Grounds.
::She uses both of her hands to tussle her hair.::
Merlot Ayano: Why is Valor Championship so important to Merlot? Valor Championship is not about fame and fortune. And Merlot no want the championship because she lust after “new shiny.” No no—Valor Champion represents REDEMPTION. Maybe was failure before. Perhaps was waste of space before—but is not true now. Merlot is mighty warrior!
::She nods her head in affirmation.::
Merlot Ayano: Valor is defined as “great courage in the face of danger, especially in battle.” And in Merlot’s time in Proving Grounds, have shown just that. No matter who been tasked with, no matter what odds been, Merlot has simply knuckled up and fought—is what Merlot was taught to do. And, is what Merlot will do here tonight!
:Merlot nods once more.::
Merlot Ayano: Not intimidated by RJ Driscoll; proved at when we meet toe to toe two weeks ago. Not intimidated by Ethan Milo Thompson, because this time, will be no sneak attacks. This time, will actually have to look Merlot in the eyes before bludgeoning starts. Don’t care that he bigger, don’t care that he stronger—going to kick head off for laying knee on Merlot, and for ruining a good match.
::Silence persists for a bit as Merlot simply stares at the camera. After a while, she speaks once more.::
Merlot Ayano: Proving Grounds needs Valor Champion that will step to forefront and stand up tall. Proving Grounds needs Valor Champion that won’t buckle under pressure and weight of world. Proving Grounds needs Valor Champion that has vast amounts of Fighting Spirit. Proving Grounds needs Valor Champion that will fight till last dying breath…
::Slight pause.::
Merlot Ayano: Person is Merlot Ayano! Hai!
::The camera slowly fades out.::
Lizzie Jones versus Michael Alexander
~Lizzie starts the match up with several hard elbow shots, staggering Alexander. She drops him with a DDT for a quick cover but can only get a two count. She keeps on the pressure, making sure that Alexander couldn't get on the offensive as Jones drops him with her Botox Breaker Unprettier
for the victory.~
Winner: Lizzie Jones
::A not amused Kelly Rosen is walking backstage, when she spots Ethan Thompson sitting on some crates, casually tapping his phone’s screen. Mindful of their first, and luckily last meeting, she shakes her head, sour-faced and un-enthused by the perspective of having to interview someone who always managed to make her feel uncomfortable. Nonetheless, she had a job to do.::
Kelly Rosen: Ethan, do you mind a few questions?
::She stresses the word FEW, remembering how he tends to take everything so literally. Ethan puts his phone down next to him, the light smile fading from his face and leaving room for the usual unintelligible expression::
Ethan Thompson: That’s why you came here for, right? Let’s do it.
::He leaned back against the crates, crossing his arms over his chest. Not really the most promising start for the interviewer.::
Kelly Rosen: Tonight you’ll be facing RJ Driscoll and Merlot Ayano to crown the first Valor Champion. One might say you made things a lot harder for yourself, considering how this was meant to be a single match, until you ended the other semi-final in a contest, knocking them both down. Without a clear winner, the General Manager had no choice but to turn this into a triple threat match. How did you prepare yourself for this match?
Ethan Thompson: One opponent, two or ten, it doesn’t matter. You saw last week how this is going to end. Me standing on my feet, them laying on the floor.
::She rolls her eyes::
Kelly Rosen: Easy, when you jump them from behind…
Ethan Thompson: I don’t think this qualifies as a question, Kelly. But I just want to set it straight, they saw me coming. They couldn’t stop me.
Kelly Rosen: Actually Merlot was laying down outside the ring most of the time, but never mind. The point is, you caught them by surprise, something you can’t count on tonight. Truth being told, they will probably be waiting for their chance at retaliation, after your senseless attack.
::For the first time he raised his eyes, looking at her::
Ethan Thompson: Senseless? I just saw my sister knocked out and you say my attack was senseless?
Kelly Rosen: Well as we saw it wasn’t RJ you should have gone after.
Ethan Thompson: And how the hell could I have known. He was the last one who saw her, he was the most likely culprit.
::She shakes her head.::
Kelly Rosen: Seriously? You really thought a guy like RJ could have done something like that?
Ethan Thompson: I thought you were here to ask me about the match Kelly, not to question my actions.
Kelly Rosen: Your actions are what lead to this match though… Your chances would have undoubtedly been higher in a one on one match. What does it possibly mean for you becoming the first Valor Champion?
::A light chuckle anticipates Ethan’s words.::
Ethan Thompson: Money. Fame. Honor. Respect. Acknowledgement as the very best. That’s what you usually get as an answer to that question, right? Well none of those matter to me. So I guess that becoming Champion tonight will get me a fancy piece of gold to carry on the next fight.
::The interviewer seems taken aback from those words::
Kelly Rosen: Are you telling me that you really don’t care about being in a title match?
Ethan Thompson: I am saying that there are things I value more than a belt.
::With a threateningly look, he now stares right into the camera::
Ethan Thompson: RJ, what happen two weeks ago was my mistake. What is going to happen tonight will be a consequence of YOUR mistake.
::The moment when Kelly is about to ask him one more question, Ethan is already turning the corner at the end of the hallway::
:: Alex Kerns stands by the entrance door as the scene opens. All of the sudden the door opens and Larissa Jackson walks in. She is wearing a black dress and her hair is in a bun. She smiles at Alex and sets her bags down and stands next to him. ::
Alex Kerns: Larissa can I have a few words with you?
:: Larissa scoffs and looks at him and shakes her head. ::
Larissa Jackson: Pretty sure that is why I stood next to you, so that you could speak to the hottest wrestler here in PWG. Pretty simple right?
:: Alex nods his head and smiles. ::
Alex Kerns: Well, last show you distracted Bea Jett so that she lost her match. Why did you do that?
Larissa Jackson: It is simple I did it because I wanted to prove myself. I wanted to show the world that I am here to mean business and costing someone a match sounded like it would be a good idea. Now, as for why Bea, well I just feel that she thought she was better then what she is and I wanted to give her some humble pie. And now I walk into that ring and I will prove my worth, and hell wrestling can’t be that hard right?
:: She smiles as she looks at Alex, she picks up her bag and walks off leaving Alex standing there. ::
Brendan Callaghan versus Dexter Severin
~At the sound of the bell, Dexter charges at Brendan who is able to hit a big pop up powerbomb. Brendan then hypes up the crowd some before pulling Dexter to his feet and connects with his stalling falling chokebomb with Tongan death grip called Southie Glory
. Brendan makes the pin as the fans chant repeatedly “Choke! Choke!”~
Winner: Brendan Callaghan
::The scene cuts backstage to Ryan Callaghan standing in the gorilla position after Brendan Callaghan’s match. Ryan has a party hat on and there’s balloons and streamers, the works. Brendan walks through, just victorious, and Ryan pops off streamers in his face.::
Ryan Callaghan: YOU DID IT! YOU BEAT THAT DEXTER BITCH!
::Brendan looks at Ryan with a disappointed look.::
Brendan Callaghan: This is nice, Ryan, but… But where are the tacos!?
::Ryan places his hands on his sides and looks down, shaking his head disappointedly.::
Ryan Callaghan: Avalon… That fat ugly bitch got here and ate all of them. She made me watch too, it was HORRIBLE.
::Ryan pretends to cry when Brendan stomps his foot and clenches his fists.::
Brendan Callaghan: THAT MONSTER! I’M GOING TO KILL HER!
::Ryan cuts off Brendan and laughs.::
Ryan Callaghan: I’m kidding! Here’s the tacos!!
::Ryan snaps his fingers when a crew of people come carrying a table that’s full of tacos. Brendan’s brow furrows as he looks at the full table.::
Brendan Callaghan: What the hell? I need at least TWO tables of tacos.
::Ryan snaps his fingers again and another crew of people comes carrying a second table of tacos.::
Ryan Callaghan: I’ve got you bro.
Brendan Callaghan: This… This is amazing.
Ryan Callaghan: How happy are you right now?
Brendan Callaghan: I AM HAPPY! What about you? You have to be careful with how many of these you eat, you have that match with Natasha.
Ryan Callaghan: Ugh, Natasha.
Brendan Callaghan: You wanna taco bout it?
::Ryan scoffs and shakes his head.::
Ryan Callaghan: No, I don’t wanna taco bout it. Let’s just enjoy this taco celebration.
::The two brothers high five before they start to grab tacos and dig in. The scene fades away.::
::The scene opens with a view of Lizzie Jones talking to fans backstage. As she signs more autographs, Alex Kerns jogs along, hoping to catch up to her::
Alex: Lizzie?
::Lizzie turns, an unmovable grin etched into her face::
Lizzie: Hey!
::She signs another cap before handing it back to the young fan::
Alex: I was hoping to get your thoughts after your victory out there earlier tonight against Michael Alexander - your first ever pay-per-view win, too.
Lizzie: Absolutely, Alex. I can tell you that I'm feeling amazing right now, this is a high like I've never felt before. More than that, I feel it's a big step for me. First win last show, first pay-per-view win tonight...these are milestones in my fledgling career and I'm just happy to be ticking them off.
::Alex nods along with her::
Alex: As we can see, you've got quite a fan following. You were, of course, known even in your previous roles as interviewer and commentator, but it seems to have hit a new level now that you're competing. What do you think makes you so popular?
::Lizzie shrugs, almost appearing modest::
Lizzie: Look, if I'm being honest then I don't know really. I'm just me and people seem to like that, which makes me feel awesome. Trust me, the fan support really makes a world of difference when I'm out there, when they start chanting my name or - like here - stop me to ask for an autograph or a quick selfie.
Alex: Answers like that probably won't hurt your popularity, either! So, the fans will want to know, what's next for you here in Proving Grounds?
Lizzie: I'm just taking it one show at a time, Alex. Learning as I go, trying to get better with each passing day. I'm working harder in the gym and on the mats than ever before, and I've got fantastic support in terms of the trainers over at Anderson Fighting Systems. So what's next for me? I don't know. But whatever it is, I'll be ready.
::Alex nods and smiles::
Alex: Well, thank you for your time, Lizzie.
Lizzie: You're most welcome.
::She adds a big smile to that and waves to the camera, before returning her attention to the fans before her as the scene ends::
Bea Jett versus Larissa Jackson
~Larissa Jackson jumps Bea before the bell and smashes her head into the turnbuckle. She then spins her around and throws her shoulder first into the ring post. Jackson plays it up to the crowd for a bit allowing Jett to recover and charge her connecting with a spear. Both women slowly move to their feet but Larissa gets up first and kicks Jett square in the face, staggering her. Jackson then locks in her "B.G.T.S" (Bitch Go To Sleep) Dragon Sleeper until Jett passes out.~
Winner: Larissa Jackson
::The cameras move backstage where we see Natasha moving down the hallway with her hood up and a serious expression on her face.::
: Well well, if it isn’t little black riding hood?
::Natasha stops dead in her tracks, the voice could only be that of one person.::
Natasha: Ryan Callaghan.
::The mysterious woman slowly turns towards the sound of the voice. She walks towards a smiling Ryan with his arms crossed. Natasha stops in front of him and lowers her hood, staring at Callaghan in an attempt to intimidate him.::
Natasha: Tonight it all ends. The jokes. The attacks. The constantly beating you or a family member of yours at every show. I grow bored with your games, and I’m tired of wasting my time when I should be focusing on becoming a champion. Now, get out of my way.
::Ryan steps up closer to Natasha, getting in her way even further.::
Ryan Callaghan: One, don't tell me what to do. Two, my jokes are hilarious and you should be thankful that I took so much time coming up with them for you. You should maybe even pay me for it. And as for you being champion by now? Please! The only award you get is for somehow having red eyes and not being an ugly albino like Sarah Lacklan! You're just an ugly dark chick! Wait… That’s just as bad!
::Ryan laughs in Natasha’s face, but Natasha doesn’t seem to find it funny.::
Natasha: More jokes on appearance, is that an attempt to make up for your shortcomings in the ring? Tell me I’m wrong, but I’m certain that ever since Proving Grounds opened it’s doors, you have been on the losing end of every match you’ve had. Me? I’m yet to be defeated. I’ve pinned you, I watched you get so mad that you got yourself disqualified, all that is left is to bury you. And I will...tonight.
::Ryan laughs hysterically for a moment before his tone immediately switches to a serious one as he glares into Natasha’s eyes.::
Ryan Callaghan: You think I'm a joke, don't you? Good. That's what I want you and everyone to believe. But despite the lukewarm results I've had here, the fact of the matter is that I'm a fucking powerhouse. I'm a legit fighter, a boxer. I've knocked you out, I knocked Aoife out on accident for Christ sakes. And now? I'm going to knock you out again but this time? I won't need brass knuckles. I'm going to end this game between you and I and I'm going to prove to you and everyone else that I can beat anyone in Proving Grounds.
Natasha: You’re a joke…
::Without warning, Natasha slaps Ryan across the face with an open palm and then a sadistic smile crosses her face.::
Natasha: You aren’t a fighter, you’re all talk. Thanks for proving my point. I will see you out there.
::Natasha flips her hood up and turns to walk away when Ryan drives an elbow to the back of Natasha’s head and knocks her down. He immediately hops on top of her and begins to deliver left and right punches.::
Ryan Callaghan: Who’s the joke now, bitch!?
::As Natasha tries fighting back, backstage officials and event security rush in and pull Ryan off of Natasha. The boxer clearly did damage as Natasha sits up with a bloody lip. She smiles and licks the blood from her lip as Ryan is shouting at her while being pulled away as the cameras cut away from the two.::
Xavier Cain: Tag team titles, what do they mean to me?
:: Xavier Cain is on the outside of the arena. His match was right around the corner but he had walked out to the back. He needed to clear his head. He took a deep breath as he looked at the arena again and closed his eyes. ::
Xavier Cain: I have worked hard to get here for this moment. There have been times in this business that I have wondered what was going to happen, how I was going to be. I was thrown down misused and overlooked, so much so I walked away, but then I hit the gym and I honed my craft for this moment. The Hounds they might be good and they might have pulled a huge upset last show when they beat the Garden of Eden. I didn’t expect that I focused all of my attention of the Garden of Eden but here we are mere moments away from someone becoming the tag team champions here in PWG and I want it.
:: He smiles again and shakes his head once more. ::
Xavier Cain: I know I’m ready and I know I have been questioned by one Natasha, because she doesn’t think I can pull my weight and maybe that is why I have pushed myself maybe that is why I want to get better, to prove to her that Jared doesn’t make this team go, but we both do. Maybe she is blind because of it but you know what I will prove to everyone that we as a team are the best thing here. All we need is one more win and those titles will be handed to us and people will talk about us.
:: Xavier turns to walk towards the door when it is opened. On the other side is Jared Bishop he has a smile on his face as he walks over to Xavier and pounds him on the back. ::
Jared Bishop: I didn’t know where you were X-Baby! But I found you! You alright?
:: Xavier scoffs he closed his eyes and nodded his head. ::
Xavier Cain: Yeah, I just needed to clear my head Jared, I thought getting out here would be the best way to do it. No one was bothering me, but hey I got to go in and finish getting ready, don’t worry we’ve got this.
:: Xavier looks at his partner and grazes past him, he walks into the backstage area. Leaving Jared by himself. Jared looks at the camera and smiles. ::
Jared Bishop: I guess since I have you out here I should talk about how happy I am for this match baby! The Hounds, yeah they are good, that Brayden guy could probably break me right in half man!
:: Jared starts to bounce on his heels as he starts to shadow box a little bit. ::
Jared Bishop But they bigger they are, the harder they fall, and as for Jack Faith well damn for a pretty little thing she can hit hard as well and she could be the underdog in this match. I know them they are a team that is closer than Xavier and I mostly because they share a bed, but this isn’t a bedroom brawl this is a match in a ring and Xavier and I have proved ever since PWG opened its doors we are the best team in this company. Now we just need to validate it with a title and we will do that. Those titles are hand-made for us and we have one more match to get them and baby, we are getting them! Xavier and I might have come from different backgrounds, but we have the same goal and that is to be champions!
:: He winks as he turns around and walks back inside. ::
el Miedo w/Marisol Diablas versus "The Regal" Rayner Maxwell
~At the sound of the bell, Miedo offers hand to Maxwell who goes to take it but Miedo turns and levels him with a superkick much to the delight of Marisol. Miedo follow up with a trio of German suplexes before tossing Maxwell from the ring. Miedo follows out and throws Maxwell around ringside. Miedo keeps the pace, throwing Maxwell into the ring steps before rolling him into the ring. Miedo lifts Maxwell up in a chokeslam and drives him over on his knee and makes the cover for the win.~
Winner: el Miedo w/Marisol Diablas
::Kassi stands in front of a PGW Backdrop, where she would usually be smiling a little scowl sits on her face. She lets out a slight sigh and shakes her head. Dressed in a pair of silver and hot pink shorts and a matching cropped top, over the knee kickpads decorated with K&K complete her look as she flips back her long blonde hair.::
Kassi Taylor-Moore: Tonight, I am going to step into the ring with one of MANY who have disrespected me since my time here in The Grounds. Show after show I have gone out there and given it my all and yet…
::A sad look crosses her eyes and she folds her arms over her chest with a slight pout.::
Kassi Taylor-Moore: No one cares about what I have done in that ring, all they want to talk about is how I look… And you know, as someone who worked their butt off to be taken in by Maddux Kingcade, it’s insulting not only to me, but to Maddux and Kai as well.
::When she says Maddux’s name an obvious look of hurt pulls at her features.::
Kassi Taylor-Moore: A girl can only take so much, I have lost matches, I have lost my trainer and now, I am close to losing my resolve… Javi, when we step into that ring, I will do WHATEVER it takes to teach you what it really means to respect a woman and hey, maybe your girlfriend will thank me for it.
:: Larissa Jackson is standing in front of a mirror. She had just taken a shower so she had a towel wrapped around her body. She smirked when she noticed the camera was on her. She took a deep breath and began to speak. ::
Larissa Jackson: What I did to Bea Jett is just the start for me in this business. When I stepped in that ring, I thought that it might have been hard, but in all reality it was VERY easy.
:: She giggled a little bit as she started to brush her hair. ::
Larissa Jackson: I was told by everyone including my brother that I was being stupid for wanting to wrestle, that I would fall flat on my face before I became any good. But what did I show them? I showed them that I can do this that walking into that ring was VERY natural for me. Now, what do I want from this?
:: Another smirk as she walked over and grabbed her clothes. ::
Larissa Jackson: I keep going and I become someone in this company that people fear, that people realize that they cannot beat me, that no matter what happens I will stand tall and I will prove to my brother that I am still better than him.
:: A laugh escaped her mouth as she started to push the camera man away. The final shot is of the door closing and her towel falling to the floor. ::
Proving Grounds Tag Team Championships:
Ying and Yang (Jared Bishop & Xavier Cain) versus The Hounds (Jack Faith & Brayden Cole)
~Bishop and Cain start the match in dominant fashion clearing the ring. They keep up the pressure until Xavier Cain is able to drop Jack Faith with his "Gods Last Word" Tombstone for the win.~
Winners: Ying and Yang (Jared Bishop & Xavier Cain)
::The scene cuts to Alex Kerns standing backstage with Kaylee Cross::
Alex Kerns: Kaylee, everyone’s well aware of the bad blood between yourself and Weapon Avalon what I’m wondering is…
::Kaylee shakes her head while grabbing the mic and cutting Alex off.::
Kaylee Cross: Wait, wait, wait… hold up. Who gave her that nickname? That’s what I want to know. Weapon. Really?! A weapon should be lethal and precise, not plodding and hiding day old food in her folds. Sure there are five megaton bombs and Avalon could easily pass for one of those but weapons like that need the help of others. They need cranes and forklifts and ten strong men to load them into a plane and then push them out the back. All they’re good for is falling and hitting the ground really, really hard. And that’s all Avalon’s good for, falling down and making a mess. So while I’ll accept Bomb Avalon, I find Weapon Avalon to be retarded.
::Alex sighs.::
Alex Kerns: As I’m sure you’re aware Ms. Cross retard is a highly offensive word.
::Kaylee blinks over at him.::
Kaylee Cross: Oh, my bad. Are you part tard?
::Alex adjusts his glasses.::
Alex Kerns: Of course not, I just…
Kaylee Cross: It’s fine if you are. I had an uncle who was part retarded. Dad said he got kicked in the head by a colt when he was little.
::Kaylee nods and just stares at Alex who appears horrified.::
Alex Kerns: Lovely. Well what I was going to ask is, do you think Mateo Hacaga and yourself will function well as a team?
Kaylee Cross: Who?
Alex Kerns: Mateo Hacaga, your partner during the handicap match.
Kaylee Cross: Nope. Doesn’t sound familiar. Does he wrestle here?
Alex Kerns: Well he had been on the sidelines due to…
::Kaylee swipes the mic away from Kerns again.::
Kaylee Cross: Mateo Hacaga, Darien Hacaga, Hakuna Matata… it doesn’t matter who my partner is. This match is about me and Cow Pie. That’s all anyone cares about. If Hacaga bothers to show then yes, I’ll use this presence to my advantage. Should he be invisible like he has most of his Proving Grounds career then that’s fine too. Less shit for me to deal with.
::Alex’s brow furrows.::
Alex Kerns: I’m sorry, Cow Pie?
Kaylee Cross: Yeah, cuz she’s a cow and she smells like shit. Hey Kerns!
Alex Kerns: Yeah?
Kaylee Cross: Knock, knock.
::Alex appears hesitant.::
Alex Kerns: Um… who’s there?
Kaylee Cross: Interrupting cow.
Alex Kerns: Interrupting cow wh…
Kaylee Cross: MOOOOOOOOO!!
::And with that Kaylee takes her leave as a befuddled Alex Kerns looks towards the camera and shrugs.::
Kassi T Moore versus Javi Cruz
~Javi started out the match baiting Kassi some, stepping around her attempts to pinch and smack her ass. Eventually, Kassi grew tired of the games and evetually locked Javi up, her got the upper hand on her and the pair traded some blows before things got a little heavier. They had a mostly balanced match, with Kassi picking up the pin.~
Winner: Kassi T Moore
:: Xavier Cain and Jared Bishop step into the back. Xavier held one half of the tag titles on his shoulder while Jared had his on his waist already. He smiled at Xavier ad put his hand out for a hand shake. Xavier took it and smiled. ::
Xavier Cain: Congrats Jared…We deserve this.
Jared Bishop: Yes, we do…
:: A hand made its way around Jared and rested on his championship around his waist.::
: If anyone deserved it, it's you, Jared.
::The hand retreats as Jared turns around to see Natasha standing in front of him now, looking down at the gold around his waist.::
Natasha: The easy part is done, winning a championship. The hard part will be keeping it. I trust someone not to let you down.
::Natasha looks over Jared's shoulder, focusing her contact lensed eyes on Xavier Cain. Xavier shook his head as he looked over at Natasha. He smirked a little bit. ::
Xavier Cain: You don’t need to worry about me Natasha. Pretty sure I proved myself before and I will again, anyways, I’ll see you later Jared.
:: Xavier walked away as he looked back at them. Jared smiled and looked at Natasha. ::
Jared Bishop: You always have to be that hard on him?
:: He looked at the title again and smiled. ::
Jared Bishop: It feels great to have a title around my waist, and I am going to keep it all you need to do is beat the Callaghan.
Natasha: I'm proud of you. I knew you could do it.
::Natasha ran a finger over her previously bloody and still swollen lip, courtesy of her run-in with Ryan Callaghan earlier in the night.::
Natasha: I will do more than beat him, I'm ending him. He drew blood, my blood and now? I spill his.
::Taking in a deep breath, her eyes moved back to Jared's championship.::
Natasha: You are the best tag team wrestler in Proving Grounds, you stakes claim to that tonight. How does it feel?
:: Without thinking he touched her lip with his finger. It was out of instinct and he quickly pulled it away. ::
Jared Bishop: Yeah, I saw what happened all you need to do is pay him back, as for this title it is validation for Xavier and I. We walked into this company saying we were the best tag team here and we proved it. Now we just need to keep this momentum going, as for you. I have faith in you that you will win, and that you will hold a title in no time.
:: He smiled as he looked at her. He took a deep breath. ::
Jared Bishop: I know you are ready ba…Natasha.
::Natasha took a few steps back, nodding her head.::
Natasha: Time to Rise...
::With a smile, Natasha walked out of the frame, leaving the camera to focus in on one half of the newly crowned tag team champions.::
Mckena Hardy versus Las Espina w/ Aoife Byrne
~The match itself was pretty even until Espina took a hard hit to the ring post and was unable to continue. Annoyed by her technical victory, McKena dragged Espina to the middle of the ring, pulling her there by her hair, she flipped her over onto her back and bent down, pulling at the mask of the fallen Espina.
Before McKena was able to remove the mask, Aoife charged the ring and with a stiff right hook took McKena down to the mat like a sack of potatoes. She then rolls Espina from the ring and helps her on her way up the ramp before turning to admire her handiwork in the ring. ~
Winner: Mckena Hardy
::Kassi comes jumping through the curtain, a huge smile on her face as she dives into the waiting arms of her boyfriend, Kai Walker, letting out an excited squeal she kisses all over his face, full of excited, celebratory energy as he laughs along with her, holding her up, wrapped around his body.::
Kai Walker: I am so proud of you baby!
Kassi Taylor-Moore: I knew I could do it, no way I could fail with you in my corner!
::She jumps down but keeps her arms locked around him, kissing im again and again across his cheeks and on his lips as they both laugh, he steps back, holding her hands in his, they sway their now outstretched arms between them.::
Kassi Taylor-Moore: It all ends tonight, the laughing, the disrespect, we are a force to be reckoned with and people better watch out! Because the K&K Wrecking Crew are coming through!!
::He chuckles at her statement, pulling her back in close for another kiss before they turn and walk off down the hall to continue their celebration.::
::McKena storms down the hall, her face as mad as thunder as she walks up behind Afoife Byrne, shoving both hands into her back, she catches the Valet by surprise and Aoife goes down face first, McKena, clearly heated turns and takes her boot to Aoife’s mid-section,dropping down she starts to kick at Aoife’s ribs before wrapping her hand up in her hair, running her face first into the wall.::
::McKena drops Aoife to the floor again and just as she swings back for another kick, she is grabbed around the waist and yanked away by a large muscular arm.::
::Head of Security and aoife’s boyfriend, Markos Jimenez now stands between the two, McKena huffs loudly and shoves at him as well, yelling at him to get out the way but Markos doesn’t say anything, just shaking his head in a slow and measured way as he blocks McKena’s path to his downed fiancee.::
McKena Hardy: You know what?! FINE! Stand there like a big, dumb oaf and protect her, you won’t be able to do that forever… I am going to get her ass in that ring and then i’ll show the whole damn world why you don’t mess with a Hardy!
::She turns on her heels and storms off down the hall, once she is out of sight, Markos turns to check on the unconscious Aoife Byrne.::
Hardcore Handicap Match
Mateo Hacaga & Kaylee Cross versus Avalon
~This hardcore handicap starts before the bell can even ring with Mateo and Kaylee charging at Avalon only to be deterred when Avalon lunges forward and drops them both with a double clothesline. Wasting no time Avalon presses Kaylee high over her head and tosses her out over the ropes and beyond the guardrail where she lands amongst the scattering crowd and security. Avalon laughs but when she turns around she’s met by Mateo who immediately goes for an arm drag but Avalon doesn’t budge, she just laughs before grabbing Mateo by the skull with both hands and unleashing a series of headbutts that cause him to stumble away swinging at air before flopping on his face.
Cameras locate Kaylee who’s still amongst the crowd and seems to have recovered but instead of coming to the aid of her partner she’s eating popcorn and taking selfies with the fans.
Back in the ring Avalon is brutalizing Mateo hitting five release German suplexes in a row. Each time Mateo reaches out towards Kaylee for help and each time Kaylee smiles and waves. The brutal onslaught continues and as a beaten and bloody Mateo clings the ropes Kaylee hops over the barrier and whispers something in his ear while slipping him a pair of brass knuckles. Avalon lumbers over, grabbing Mateo by the hair but as she pulls him up she’s met with a right cross to the temple courtesy of the brass knuckles. At first she’s unfazed but then a trickle of blood drips down as she stumbles back a step. Mateo doesn’t waste any time greeting her with three more shots from the knucks as Avalon waves her arms to keep her balance and stumbles back against the ropes. Kaylee slides into the ring with two steel chairs and tosses one to Mateo. As Avalon rebounds from her stumble the pair greet her with not one, not two, but three conchairtos to the skull before the giant finally collapses to the mat. Mateo smiles and raises his hand for a high five but Kaylee drops him with a chair shot instead. Then she drags his limp body over and drapes it across Avalon for the three count, securing the victory for her team.
As Avalon and Mateo lie unconscious in the ring Kaylee slides back out and grabs a giant cowbell on a rope that she planted at ringside. Sliding back in she drapes the cowbell around Avalon’s neck and then slides back out with her hand raised to a mixed reaction from the crowd.~
Winners: Mateo Hacaga & Kaylee Cross
::Eliza sits backstage, she has on a large brimmed black hat with a veil cast over her eyes, she’s dressed in a long black maxi dress that covers her perfectly toned curves from her shoulders to her ankles. Her white blonde hair, twisted in a french plait runs down her back and the only color on her is her painted, blood red lip, that part with a soft, sorrowful sigh as she shakes her head.::
Eliza Valentine: We are here tonight to the mourn the many, many losses of Your champion Aiden Morrow…
::Her lips twist into a smirk and she leans towards the camera, snapping her eyes open she starts to laugh, a cold and hollow laugh that escapes from those perfectly painted lips.::
Eliza Valentine: Aiden Morrow claims himself to be a family man and yet, we have all seen him flirting and fucking around… Less than a week after this huge tragedy strikes the man you herald as Champion, he’s already trying to dip his wick in a new pool and for that I say… Bravo…
::She begins to sarcastically applaud him as she laughs again, letting out a shriek of laughter as she shakes her head.::
Eliza Valentine: Oh, Aiden, Aiden, Aiden… Seek solace now, because when I am done with you, you’ll be smeared across that canvas like the piece of fucking shit you are… You dedicate this match to a woman you abandoned, a woman who tried to kill herself whilst you were busy arguing with me and others on social media… You want to blame Cass Baumer for what happened? I applaud Cass for her candor…
I told you, when this all started, that I would take everything from you and from day one, I have been in your head and now here you stand tonight, a broken loser, a bucket of lies and tears strung together by a Championship belt you never truly earned..
But don’t worry Aiden, we are all here to mourn you, we will mourn your pathetic title reign, we will mourn your career and most importantly… NOBODY will mourn the loss of you from this industry when you realize what I have been saying all along…
You just can’t cut it!
::Eliza jumps towards the camera and claps her hands together loudly, tilting her head she presses her steepled fingers to her lips.::
Eliza Valentine: Oh and I dedicate this ass kicking to Mi Tigre, because after I tear you up Aiden, I’m going to be just revved enough to tear him up in ways someone like you would write home about for YEARS.
Valor Championship:
RJ Driscoll versus Ethan Milo Thompson versus Merlot Ayano
~As the match starts EMT jumps at RJ and pounds away on him with clubbing forearms before thrust kicking him through the ropes and out of the ring. Merlot then jumps at EMT, dropping him with a running elbow smash. Merlot goes for a straight jacket German suplex, holding it for the pin, only to have it broken up by RJ. Driscoll starts to work on the leg of Merlot only to get kicked away and leveled again by EMT. Throughout the match EMT focused on RJ and beating on him as much as possible. That tunnel vision allowed Merlot to connect with her Sorrow Bringer Running Punt for the cover and the victory.~
Winner: Merlot Ayano
::RJ pushes through the curtain, sweaty and obviously disappointed in himself for not being able to take home the Valor championship. Once again, Kelly Rosen has been waiting like a vulture. She ambushes him with her microphone.::
Kelly Rosen: Tough break out there tonight. Do you think that maybe your head just wasn't in the game? Your public rejection by a woman was pretty obvious and not to mention your friendship with EMT’s sister...
::There is a distinct look of anger on the normally demure man’s face.::
RJ: Look, I have told you a dozen times already to stick to relevant...
::There is a loud commotion and a man’s primal scream as suddenly someone leaps into the side of RJ, riding his body to the ground. The force causes the camera man to lose his balance and the scene is a blur until it settles upside down. It watches as the two man trade blows back and forth. Neither of them giving up until there is the commotion of security, pulling the men apart. The camera is then picked up and righted, watching as both men fight tve security guards with angry faces and heaving chests.::
EMT: Let me kill this no nothing clown!
::RJ rolls his eyes.::
RJ: Is that really the best you got? Really?
::EMT growls.::
EMT: I’m thinking! Okay!
RJ: Get on with it, we haven't got all day.
::RJ seemingly has started to calm down, taking deep steadying breaths to even out his erratic breathing where EMT still pants, watching him in apparent wonder.::
EMT: How do you do that? Calm down so fast?
::His tone has calmed down with genuine interest.::
RJ: Yoga, tai chi, meditation. When you suffer from a disorder like mine it's helpful.
::EMT shakes his head, realizing why he was angry in the first place.::
EMT: You were leading my sister on. Then you make a date with her boss! What the hell is that? I’m going to kill you!
::He once again fights the hold the security guard has while the ones holding RJ let him go. He shakes his head::
RJ: I am not the kind of guy to just look for another potential relationship. Heidi and I are friends. Jana is also my friend. I explained to Heidi and explained the situation. We ate cool so you should be too.
::He sighs, watching his words sink into the brain of the man in front of him.::
RJ: If I had a little sis I’d probably be protective too so can’t blame ya but in this case, there was nothing malicious meant.
::EMT swats the security away. He still looks disgruntled though.::
RJ: Think we can let it go now, Mate?
::EMT stares as RJ extends a hand toward him. Finally he simply shakes it and pulls his hand back quickly.::
EMT: Fine. Dropped but don’t think this makes us friends. I’ll be watching you and if you hurt Heidi I will pulverize you.
::He brushes back the brit as he walks away. Kelly Rosen once again steps forward but RJ holds up his hand.::
RJ: Go bother someone else.
::He then walks away and you can almost see a hint of new confidence in his walk.::
::The camera cuts backstage. Merlot Ayano is seated on a bench in the women’s locker room. Although a bit of time has passed since her match, Merlot is still dressed in her ring attire. The camera focuses on her upper body. Her hair is dark and nearly matted. Her face is still drenched—a mighty mixture of sweat and tears. As the camera zooms in on her eyes, we can see that her eyes are fixated on something.
Cut to Merlot’s lower body. The camera zooms in on the Proving Grounds Valor Championship cradled in her arms in a protective manner. The shot lingers on the image of the belt for a moment or two.::
Merlot Ayano: ...Please forgive. Merlot at a bit of loss for words at moment.
::She shakes her head as the camera shows a full shot of her body. It’s as if she’s trying to pull her head away from Cloud Nine and come back down to earth.::
Merlot Ayano: Before Valor Championship, Merlot poured her heart out. Merlot always try to be open and honest on and off camera, but this time, Merlot gave raw look into thoughts. Wanted everyone to understand just why Merlot fights with so much intensity, so much ferocity. And well, now know...
::There is a small pause.::
Merlot Ayano: After months and months of pain, after many trying times, Merlot sits before you as Proving Grounds Valor Champion. Is, is difficult to explain how Merlot feel right now. A bit sore, a bit proud, and a lot of thankful. If can imagine, everything feels so surreal. Hai…
::She shakes her head once more before she lifts her head and wipes her face with her left forearm. Merlot then looks directly into the camera.::
Merlot Ayano: Merlot said the Valor Championship represented redemption. Is very true. However, Merlot no redeemed by simply holding and obtaining championship. Redemption and restoration requires action—requires work.
::She slowly nods her head.::
Merlot Ayano: Merlot’s journey is not over yet; no, far from over. Now, is really time to knuckle up. Now, is really time to go out and fight. Merlot will hold held up high as she defends Valor Championship with honor and pride. That is true road to redemption. And on that road, are no games, no shenanigans. Just pure Fighting Spirit—is what this title needs, what Proving Grounds needs.
::Merlot slowly rises to her feet. She places the championship over her shoulder. After staring at the belt once more, she nods her head.::
Merlot Ayano: Hai...
Natasha versus Ryan Callaghan
~The match starts with Ryan dropping Natasha with a clothesline. She gets up and he goes for another but she dodges it. Ryan gets up and Natasha drives a knee into his gut before dropping him with a implant DDT. Natasha goes for a pin but Ryan refuses to stay down and the two got into a back and forth battle, trying to outdo the other until Ryan dodges a superkick from Natasha and slaps Natasha into an effective hammerlock. Before Natasha has a chance to attempt a reversal, Ryan takes her out out with a Modified lifting reverse STO, which he calls the Curse of Boston. He goes for the cover but Natasha kicks out at two, refusing to give up in the early going.
Ryan gets up and stalks Natasha, waiting for her to get up to her feet. He decides to exit the ring and climb up the turnbuckle. Natasha stirs and Ryan leaps off of the turnbuckle and goes for a diving clothesline but Natasha saw it coming a mile away and she drops Ryan with a brutal superkick counter that takes his head off. Natasha goes for the cover but Ryan manages to kick out at two. Natasha picks Callaghan up and whips him to the ropes but he counters and whips Natasha instead. She bounces off of them and Ryan connects with a cross body block that sends her to the floor and then he follows her out with a suicide dive between the ropes just as Natasha began to get up and he takes her out, sending them both crashing to the ground.
The referee begins to count the two out and Ryan gets in the ring at the seven count. Natasha slides back in at the nine count, just before the ten. Ryan picks Natasha up and lifts her for a suplex but she counters and lands behind his back. Ryan turns and Natasha drops him with an enziguri. Ryan is out of it as Natasha steps back into the corner. Ryan gets up to his feet and Natasha lets out and primal scream and then charges, nailing Ryan with a her brutal trademark clothesline called Hell Hath No Fury. She goes for the cover and Ryan looks out for the three count but before the referee counts to three, he just gets his foot on the ropes and the referee catches it. Natasha is in shock.
Natasha gets up and retreats to the corner. She waits for Ryan to get up and he begins to stir. He finally gets up and Natasha charges. She goes for another Hell Hath No Fury but Ryan ducks out of the way this time. As Natasha turns around, Ryan leaps in the air and nails her with a Superman Punch, which he calls The Pride of Southie. He pins Natasha but she’s near the ropes and at the two count, she reaches up and places her hand on the rope, showing her ring awareness. Another close call for the match. Ryan clearly looks frustrated as he begins to talk to the referee. He shakes his head before turning his attention back to Natasha.
As Ryan goes to pick Natasha up, she rolls him up with a small package. The count gets to two and Ryan manages to kick out. The two get up and Ryan charges at Natasha. Natasha grabs the top of the rope and pulls it down, sending the charging Ryan over it but he lands on the apron. Natasha turns and Ryan nails her with a forearm that sends her reeling. As Natasha tries to gather herself, Ryan springboards himself up off the of ropes, a move that nobody has ever seen him do before but he manages to pull it off and show his athleticism. As he is flying through the air towards Natasha, she looks up and is met by a brutal superman punch from Ryan. Ryan then goes for the cover and picks up the three count, getting a clean victory and his first victory in his career.~
Winner: Ryan Callaghan
::The scene cuts to the locker room of Kaylee Cross where fresh off her team’s victory she’s celebrating. Still in her ring gear and with a fifth of Jack in her hands she toasts the camera.::
Kaylee Cross: They say every dog has its day but today that bloated cow had to pay. I promised her and her entire dysfunctional family that I’d leave her lying in the ring and that’s exactly what I did. As for Mateo, you’re just a casualty of war my friend. Nothing wrong with winning by attrition, right?
::Kaylee laughs before taking a swig of Jack.::
Kaylee Cross: You’re welcome Proving Grounds fans and you’re welcome Maddux Kingcade. I took what would’ve been a snoozer of a match and made it must see. I don’t rise, I don’t bitch and I don’t moan… I put on a show and I win. People think the Cross family legacy is all about death and tragedy but they forget that before all that bullshit we were about domination.
::Her green eyes seem to ignite as she steps closer to the camera.::
Kaylee Cross: That’s why I’m here. To prove the Cross family is back in business and to take the farce this sport has become back to its old school roots.::
::She chuckles before taking another swig.::
Kaylee Cross: I’m sure everyone thought Avalon would come out the victor. Even with the handicap this match was tailor made for her skillset. But you doubted my intelligence and you doubted my brutality.
::She wags her index finger right up against the lens.::
Kaylee Cross: Never doubt me again. So I ask you Mr. Kingcade, who’s next? What do you have in store for the biggest draw on your pathetic roster? Do I get to take a piss on everything your Valor title stands for or do you have something more in mind? I’m all ears, Maddux. Don’t keep me waiting.
::Kaylee pushes the camera away while taking another giant swig.::
::The scene cuts backstage to Ryan Callaghan walking up to the table of tacos that he and his brother were eating from earlier. Ryan grabs a taco when Kelly Rosen appears with a microphone in hand.::
Kelly Rosen: Ryan!
::Ryan jumps up and almost drops his taco before looking behind and seeing Kelly.::
Ryan Callaghan: Damn it, Kelly! You almost made me drop my taco!
Kelly Rosen: Oh, um, sorry! I just wanted to ask you a few questions about your victory over Natasha? It was your first one here in Proving Grounds and well, in your wrestling career.
::Ryan smiles and nods.::
Ryan Callaghan: Yeah, it felt pretty damn good getting that victory. Natasha has been going at my family and going at me for months, she even broke my sister’s hand…. So I made her pay. On the biggest night in Proving Grounds history, I pinned Natasha and became the first person to legitimately beat her.
::Ryan’s gaze narrows as he looks into the camera.::
Ryan Callaghan: Tonight showed that I’m a lot more serious than you all know. I’m a competitor, a winner and a former boxing champion. I was born for this stage, for this life. So here and now, I’m telling you all that you’re going to see a more serious Ryan Callaghan.
::Kelly glances down at the taco in Ryan’s hand and then back up at him and he grimaces awkwardly before hiding the taco behind his back.::
Ryan Callaghan: Right, I forgot that was there.
::Ryan clears his throat.::
Ryan Callaghan: Anyway, like I said, I am a serious threat to anyone in this company. So if you want a piece of this? Tread lightly because I’ll be taking your head off with this fist! Just like I did to Natasha!
Kelly Rosen: So are you done with Natasha?
::Ryan nods.::
Ryan Callaghan: I am. I’m moving on and I think she should do the same and get over her obsession with me.
Kelly Rosen: Anyone you have your eyes on?
Ryan Callaghan: Well, obviously my eyes are on Kaylee Cross. Goddamn, she’s so fucking hot and I’m just… I’m in love with her. Seriously, the girl puts me on cloud nine and I couldn’t be happier.
Kelly Rosen: I meant competitively.
Ryan Callaghan: Ohhhh…
::Ryan thinks it over before shrugging.::
Ryan Callaghan: It doesn’t matter. I’ll take on any and all comers. Now let’s celebrate with tacos!
::Ryan grabs a couple of tacos and hands them to Kelly and she starts to eat one as Ryan starts to practically devour them as the scene fades away.::
Main Event:
Proving Grounds Championship:
Eliza Valentine versus Aiden Morrow (c)
~The two competitors square up in the middle of the ring. They lock up with Eliza coming out on top, forcing Morrow to the mat with a side headlock takedown. Aiden was quick to break free of Eliza's grip and stand back up, only to meet a charging Eliza who headbutts him, causing Aiden to drop to them at. On the mat, Aiden held his face and rolls to his side. Eliza dropped to her knees, forcing Morrow to his back as she goes for a pin but Aiden kicks out after two.
Eliza quickly gets back on the attack, scoring a harsh kick to Aiden's back as he tries to stand. She pulls Morrow to his feet and nails him with a couple of punches, forcing him into the corner. Taking a few steps back, Eliza smashes Aiden with a clothesline into the corner. Valentine then taunts the crowd and they boo her. She charges again, but Morrow dodges out of the way. Eliza collides into the turnbuckle and drops to one knee, holding her chest from the impact. Morrow meanwhile stands at the ropes, taking a second to catch his breath.
Eliza gets back up but Aiden catches her with a pair of hard right hands. A third sent Eliza up against the ropes. Aiden charges in, scoring a clothesline that sends both competitors to the outside of the ring. Aiden gets back to his feet first, pausing to gather himself as Eliza crawls toward the ring steps. Aiden motions towards Eliza, grabbing the back of Eliza's head and forces her chest first into the barricade around the ring.
The fans chant Aiden on as he takes the advantage. With a hand on Eliza's neck, Aiden guides her back into the ring. Aiden gets back in the ring and retreats to a corner. He sizes up Eliza as he stirs. Eliza gets up and Aiden charges, going for a spear but Eliza dodges out of the way. Aiden pops off of the ropes and Eliza grabs Aiden by the head and throws him over the ropes but Aiden grabs the top rope and lands on the apron. Aiden springboards off of the ropes, going for the Flying Morrow Smash but Eliza pulls the referee in the way and Aiden connects with the referee.
A shocked Aiden looks down at the referee that’s out cold and Eliza grabs Aiden by the back of his head. She tucks his head under her arm before twisting his body around, nailing a rolling cutter or what is known in wrestling as crossroads but Eliza calls Mysterious Girl. She goes to pin Aiden but the referee is still out cold. She’s on top of him for a good ten seconds but the referee still doesn’t get up.
Eliza gets up and checks on the referee, trying her best to wake him up by moving him and screaming at him. Eventually Aiden is back on his feet and when Eliza turns, Aiden nails her with a knee to the gut before hitting her with a Double Underhook Piledriver, which he calls the No Fly Zone. As Aiden pins Eliza, a referee comes running down the ramp and slides into the ring. The referee then makes the count and he counts to three, making Aiden Morrow the winner and still Proving Grounds Champion.~
Winner: Aiden Morrow