Post by Danny on May 5, 2023 20:07:10 GMT -6
We head to the arena where the pyrotechnics go off from the stage and the camera pans around to get a shot of the Revolution fans in attendance before panning to the commentary table where Corey Graves, Mauro Ranallo, and Tom Phillips are standing by.
Mauro Ranallo: Hello and welcome to Revolution! I'm Mauro Ranallo alongside my partners Tom Phillips and former International Champion Corey Graves.
Tom Phillips: We continue to bring you the best action with five great match-ups this evening like Edge versus Drew McIntyre!
Corey Graves: Also going toe-to-toe will be Finn Balor and JBL!
Mauro Ranallo: In a battle for the Prime Time Medal, Sami Zayn defends against Orange Cassidy!
Tom Phillips: Also on tap, Batista and Eddie Kingston will do battle.
Corey Graves: And in our main event, Spike Dudley and Kyle O’Reilly will throw down! All that and more right here on Revolution!
The Revolution logo splashes the screen before we are taken to prerecorded footage of an interview given by Orange Cassidy at a press conference. Cassidy is shown smirking as he listens to a journalist's question.
Interviewer: Orange, you've entered the UWF a perfect 2-0 and now you're facing Sami Zayn for the second time in less than a month for the Prime Time Medal. If you win the medal, what's next for "Freshly Squeezed"?
Cassidy adjusts his aviators, then leans into the mic.
Orange Cassidy: Let's get one thing straight. It's not an "if," it's a "when" I win the Prime Time Medal. I mean, as far as I'm concerned, I already won it from L.A. Knight a few weeks back. But again, technicalities, technicalities, technicalities. Which is why this week on Revolution, I'm going to set the record – and the record books – straight. Sami Zayn only has that medal because the former holder couldn't keep his eyes off me for more than a few moments. This week, Sami's going to have his eyes off me for a whole lot longer than that – because he's going to be flat on his back, staring at the house lights while I walk away with the medal that should already be mine.
A second interviewer raises his hand. Cassidy points to him.
Interviewer 2: Orange, thanks for picking me, I'm Simon Miller from WhatCulture.com. In your last run in the UWF, you were accompanied everywhere. What I and the fans the world round are wondering is why– Simon slaps his own bald head. are you not accompanied by them this time round?
Orange smirks as he looks over the massive hulk of a journalist man.
O.C.: First of all, whoa, you're huge man. Like, in a muscular way. I don't ever want to be put in a headlock by you. But to answer your question, mostly it's because I'm tired of carrying them around. Anyone who knows me knows I don't really like carrying around anything if I can avoid it, but having those two guys in my backpack was hard as h*ck, y'know? I love them as much as I love my own mother but when I'm trying to make an honest go of my career here, they'd be like an albatross wrapped around my neck. So no, they stay at home, we hang out after the shows and they help me gameplan for all of my opponents, and we do plenty of practice in the backyard ring, but that's the extent of it. Next question?
Orange points to a man at the back of the room. It's the infamous Dave Meltzer.
Interviewer 3: Dave Meltzer, Wrestling Observ--
Cassidy shakes his head and makes the cut motion with a hand over his throat.
"Freshly Squeezed": Nope. No thanks. Nuh-uh. I saw what you did to other peoples' careers in this company and I'm not getting mixed up with any of that. No further questions.
Orange gets up and abruptly leaves. The Revolution logo splashes the screen once more and the show moves on.
The scene opens on Batista on a movie set.
”The Hollywood Animal” Batista: Alright I’m headed to my trailer to get ready to head to Revolution. See you guys next time.
Batista heads to his trailer but suddenly someone calls out to him.
Before you go, do you think you could go over some lines with me real quick?
Batista stops and turns around to respond but when he does, he has a director’s chair thrown at him. Big Dave instinctively swats it aside but that proved to only be a distraction as he’s then hit in the stomach with the top of a camera tripod. As he hunches over, he’s struck over the back with the same tripod over and over until he’s lying flat on the ground. Soon it’s seen that his attacker is none other than Leyton Buzzard.
Leyton Buzzard: Try and pay your way out of this one you roided prick!
Buzzard continues to beat Batista with the tripod until it breaks, then he brings the big man up to his feet just to low blow him and then DDT him onto the floor. Leyton puts the boots to Batista now as suddenly security comes running over and chases him off. Big Dave is seen in a world of hurt as Revolution continues elsewhere.
The fans file in from the merch sands and concessions, taking their seats ahead of the next exciting match.
As the riff kicks in to Jefferson Starship's "Jane," the man known only as "Freshly Squeezed" Orange Cassidy emerges from the back to an uproarious pop from the crowd. Sporting his aviators and his magnificently coiffed hair, Cassidy walks coolly down to the ring, hands in his pockets. He doesn't seem to be in a hurry, and as he reaches the end of the ramp, he pauses to offer a weak fist bump to a fan holding a thumb's up out over the barricade.
Cassidy then heads up the ring steps lazily and eases himself between top and middle ropes, before moving to the middle of the ring and throwing up a half-enthusiastic thumbs up to a pop from the crowd. OC heads to the corner and lounges there as he removes his aviators and awaits the beginning of the contest.
"Headphones" by WALK THE MOON comes on and Sami comes out with not one but two pieces of gold strapped to his body! The Prime Time Medal is around his neck and the Forever Championship is around the waist. He's got a pep in his step as he dances his way down to the ring. Luchadora and Generico are surprisingly absent this week but Zayn confidently struts down the ramp.
Sami slides into the ring and continues to dance around with his belt and medal much to the chagrin of the paying audience. Sami walks over and makes sure to show them off to all the fans before preparing for the match.
Tony Chimel takes the center of the ring to make this thing official.
Chimel: The following contest is set for one-fall and is for the Prime Time Medal!
Introducing first, the Challenger... from... wherever... and weighing in at... whatever... he is "Freshly Squeezed," Orange CASSIDY!
And his opponent, from Montreal Quebec, Canada, weighing in at 212 pounds, The Prime Time Medalist, The Dynamic Sami Zayn!!
Sami hands over his hardware, the Referee holds up the prize this fight is for, and then he too passes it away as Chimel heads out of the ring. Once the coast is clear and both men confirm they're good to go, the Official calls for the bell.
VS 
DING DING
The bell sounds and we're off to the races! Yep, that's right folks. More exciting action courtesy the world-class professional wrestlers of the finest organization in the world today. Two hungry talents squaring off for the ultimate golden ticket - the Prime Time Medal, whose holder is only ever three wins at most away from a shot at the Intercontinental Championship. Contending for such a prize isn't an opportunity that comes around every day, so when it does, you have to make the most of it. You gotta capitalize - strike while the iron is hot.
Phillips: Neither man has moved yet...
Ranallo: I think they're game-planning, Tom.
In one corner, we've got the undefeated-since-he-came-back Orange Cassidy, who could claim this prize and ride that momentum all the way to a marquee match at an upcoming pay-per-view event. Across the ring is Sami Zayn, the man who has fought and scraped and clawed for years to score himself a singles' accolade and finally had the effort pay off last week. Its as can't-lose / must-win as a match on free TV can get, so naturally, the intensity is through the roof.
Phillips: Coming up on thirty seconds since the bell now...
Graves: Sami is just waiting for this goober to slip up. He's setting a trap.
Just because Sami hasn't left the safety of his corner and OC may or may no be asleep standing up (impossible to tell with those aviators on) doesn't mean that this thing can't kick into gear in the blink of an eye. These men are standing on the edge of the precipice. This is action on a razorblade that could cut in either direction without notice. The fans lean in, anticipating that at second now, this bubbling hot pot could boil over.
Phillips: They heard the bell, right?
Graves: "ThEy HeArD tHe BeLl, RiGhT?"
Ranallo: Corey, I'll ask you to refrain from condescending impressions of our esteemed colleague.
Graves: It's just my way of reminding him that there are such things as stupid questions.
The murmuring of the crowd and the hum of the spotlight and the unnatural waning of adrenaline given the inaction a minute into a match has Sami starting to sweat nervously. He doesn't want to slip into any of his opponent's classic traps. The man's like a Venus Fly Trap for sneaky roll-ups or outta nowhere knockout punches. He didn't become Sami Dos Oros by making silly mistakes, after all.
So what does he do? He beckons the challenger to come to him. He calls Orange across the ring, daring him to traverse the canvas, to bring the fight to the Medalist.
Cassidy's head tilts to the side. To say he tilted it on purpose would suggest a certainty that he was in fact still awake.
This sorta poker face irks the Forever Champ something fierce. He looks to the Ref like "are you serious" and tells the third man to penalize Orange for the lack on inaction. The Referee reminds Sami that he hasn't really done anything either and also, unlike the mixed martial arts, they don't even have that rule, actually. Sami's all like "well you should!" and the Ref is like "yeah, maybe."
OC's head tilts forward like the way one's does when they're asleep on a plane ride. You know the way?
Across the ring, Sami's jaw drops. He points at Cassidy, still weary to get anywhere close to him now that he has so much to lose in life, and tells the Referee that if his opponent is in fact asleep, that counts as unconscious and that means he wins.
Graves: Sounds like Sami is explaining to the Referee how to do his job. Good for him. Somebody needs to keep these zebras in check.
Ranallo: The Forever Champ might actually have a point, here. If Orange Cassidy is asleep right now, this match could be over.
Phillips: Can you actually fall asleep standing up? Did Mythbusters ever do a one about that?
The Referee isn't sure what to do. So statuesque is Orange Cassidy, though, and so shy on patient is Sami Zayn, that eventually, the Prime Time Medalist creeps across the ring to check for himself. Quietly he steps, not wanting to wake the guy. You would think the crowd would make a whole lotta noise to rouse their boy from his sleep - but get this - just like yawning, seeing people do things quietly has like a socially contagious effect on us (human beings) so when we see it, we emulate it. Naturally, the capacity crowd hushes the heck up as Zayn tip-toes over to the two-and-oh contender to inpsectigate. Commentary whispers along.
Ranallo: If Orange Cassidy is really asleep, Sami should be able to catch him in a pinning predicament with relative ease.
Graves: I say he should take off the glasses and prove to the Referee that the guy is already out like a light. Don't even bother with the formality of the three count. This is a textbook technical submission.
Phillips: Shhhh! Let the guy rest! Probably he had a long day!
Cassidy's breathing is deep and slow. Sami endeavors to match the heavy inhales and exhales with his paces. Clever. Always so clever, this dude.
It takes him a sec, but soon enough and sure enough, he gets close enough. Zayn tries out Graves' idea, reaching in to remove the glasses for some definitive proof that his opponent is conked. The fans hold their breath. Its freaky silent in the arena, almost as though it were empty.
With the grip of someone who probably effing slays at a game of Operation, Sami's pointer fingers and thumbs delicately clamp the sides of the shades and he pulls them off the head with the cautious touch of Indiana Jones at the start of Raiders of the Lost Ark. He then pulls the sunglasses off, revealing the truth...
Ranallo: MAMA MIA!
Phillips: He's wide awake! Orange Cassidy is wide awake!
Graves: What a cheater!
Orange Cassidy's steely eyes are in fact open when the shades pull away. Sami is shocked by the reveal, but even more shocked when OC shoots in on him and snags the swiftest roll-up you'll ever see! The Referee slides in to count it...
1...
Phillips: Cassidy is gonna steal it!
2...
Graves: I knew we couldn't trust him!
No! Zayn escapes the pin attempt by rolling through and getting Cassidy's shoulders to the mat instead! Its a perfect reversal and he's got it in deep!
1...
2...
Cassidy breaks loose before its too late!
Sami scrambles to his feet and stumbles away, his heart pounding through his chest after that close call. Cassidy yawns, picks up the shades that Sami dropped, puts them back on and then casually stands up like its no big deal. He then goes on the offensive, casually strolling towards the center of the ring but showing few signs of aggression beyond that.
Zayn circles, looking for the perfect opening, spurred on by some legit anger and desperation now. Eventually he moves in, slapping a side headlock on Cassidy, who makes no effort to grapple with the Forever Champion. The Canuck works the hold for a bit before whipping Orange into the ropes. The King of Sloth Style lackadaisically ricochets back and is greeted with a boot to the midsection for his troubles.
Cassidy doubles over, coughing up some wind. Zayn sends himself into the cables now, looking to build up some speed for his next attack. On the return, however, he stops just shy of hitting Cassidy when the latter stands tall, looking unfazed as he holds up his hands and then places them in his pockets to the delight of the crowd.
Graves: Orange Cassidy is an absolute disgrace to the sport of professional wrestling.
Ranallo: His methods are certainly unorthodox, but there's no denying the results.
Sami takes a wild swing at his opponent. Cassidy ducks the haymaker, falling flat on to his back as the momentum of the missed shot has Zayn spinning like a top. With his hands still tucked into his pockets, Orange kips up to his feet, then, astoundingly, breaks into a full on sprint, running the ropes and the coming back to obliterate Sami with a shotgun dropkick.
The impact of the shoes to the chest send Sami rolling over and out of the ring. He spills through the ropes in a heap on the floor. Orange slowly stands back up, eyes up the turnbuckle, shrugs, and then heads to the top while the fans pop big. His hands are still in his pockets as he scales the corner post, and once he's at the top, he turns around to face the other direction while the dilapidated Prime Time Medalist lies prone in his shadow.
Cassidy doesn't so much jump as he does lean back, coming in hot and heavy with the Trust Fall. Surely it would just friggin smush Zayn if the Canadian didn't have the wherewithal to dive out of harm's way in the knick of time! Orange crashes and burns to the floor while Sami cackles at his misfortune.
Phillips: Orange Cassidy went high risk but got no reward for his efforts.
Ranallo: As unpredictable and unprecedented as OC's tactics may be, Sami Zayn is admittedly something of an evil genius - not at all an easy many to outfox, and given the opportunity, he can jump all over a mistake like the one Cassidy just made.
Orange is groaning on the ground while Zayn uses the barricade to help himself up. He then circles around the ring to wear OC's denim jacket is lying like bedroom-floor laundry at the base of one of the turnbuckles. Rummaging around in the pockets, he finds that signature bottle of orange juice and steals it! The fans boo a lot cause they know he could have afforded to by his own if he really wanted it so bad.
Zayn then comes back around the ring, uncorks the drank, takes a swing and then immediately spits it out, loudly explaining that actually, he brushed his teeth before the match cause that's a common courtesy for a close-contact sport. Of course, OJ after toothpaste is no good. You ever try and watch Malcolm in the MIddle right after Breaking Bad? Same basic principle.
Anyway, Sami adds insult to injury by dumping the rest of the bottle out on the floor and then throwing the empty container right at OC's head. That could technically merit a DQ, but its more just of a mean thing to do cause its just a little plastic thing. The Ref lets it slide with a warning, but tells Sami he'll ten-count them if they don't get back in the ring ASAP.
Zayn doesn't need to be told twice. He scoops Orange off the floor and rolls his battered body into the ring. Just as he's climbing in after the guy, though, something catches his attention, and not just his, but everyone else in the building, too!
Phillips: Hey, what's everybody looking at?
Ranallo: There! Coming down the ramp!
Graves: Its L...A... Knight!
Indeed it is! The recently dethroned Prime Time Medalist strolls down the entrance ramp, interrupting the proceedings. Sami scurries into the ring and yells at the Referee to kick him out. The Official shouts a warning to Knight as he approaches, but Knight puts his hands up and insists he's just there to watch.
Nobody is convinced. Zayn looks like he's just seen a ghost. The dude totally threw off his focus. He goes to get back to work but how's he supposed to focus when -
BLAMMY! ORANGE CASSIDY COMING IN JUICEY OUTTA NOWHERE WITH THE ORANGE PUNCH!
Phillips: OC just hit the Orange Punch on Zayn! Sami's out like a light!
Ranallo: He just beat him to a pulp!
Sami goes down hard and Orange lands right on top to make the cover. Knight leans on the apron and just spectates as the three count gets counted...
1...
2...
3...
DING DING
YOUR WINNER...
AND NEW PRIME TIME MEDALIST...
ORANGE CASSIDY!
The fans go bonkers when "Jane" hits the PA. Orange slowly gets up to his feet - part cause he's real sore and part cause he's just slow en general. The Referee retrieves the Medal and hands it Cassidy before raising his hand in victory.
Ranallo: Unbelievable! The Prime Time Medal has changed hands again this week! You just never know what's going to happen at UWF Revolution!
Phillips: I think the question was who could catch the other man off guard and make it count. Tonight, OC proved that even if he's sleepy, you can never sleep on him.
Graves: He oughta give that Prime Time Medal right back to L... A... Knight because without him, there's no way he would have won it.
Zayn rolls out of the ring half-conscious while Knight scales the apron and steps through the ropes. Cassidy turns and sees him coming, and so prepares himself for a fight. His hands sure aren't in his pockets anymore. They're all balled up. LA just scoffs at that, then smirks and shakes his head. His gaze lingers on the Prime Time Medal a second or two longer before he turns around and exits the ring, leaving Cassidy to have his moment.
Orange's celebration is a subdued one, with one eye staying on Knight as the Thursday Night Thriller backs away up the ramp, his intentions unspoken but clear. Revolution continues elsewhere!
Backstage we see Kayla Braxton stood with microphone directly outside the door of EC3’s office.
Kayla Braxton: It’s fair to say that things have been rather chaotic here on Revolution over the past few weeks, with perhaps no one feeling that more than EC3. I’m hoping to be able to grab a quick word with him in order to get his thoughts on a few specific matters and what the future might hold for a number of UWF stars as well as himself.
As Kayla approaches the door in order to give it a knock, it slowly opens before she can make contact and out from the other side steps Drew McIntyre. Considering his recent ruthless behaviour, Kayla is worried by the sight of him and immediately takes a step back. The Scotsman catches sight of her trying to back away and doesn’t seem impressed.
Drew McIntyre: Oh so are backstage interviews now out of the question as well huh?
Kayla Braxton: Emm... No, I was... just... hoping to uhh... catch a word with...
Drew McIntyre: You know I would have thought that the level of restraint I showed towards Eddie Guerrero’s stupid wife last week was a clear indicator that I am still capable of drawing a line somewhere in amongst the madness and the rage. Maybe you weren’t here to interview me, but the man behind that door isn’t coming out to speak, so either you can run away and look like a fool, or you can bring that microphone closer so that everyone can hear what I have to say.
An understandably uncertain Kayla seems to ponder whether running off might be the best course of action, but instead decides to move cautiously closer to McIntyre and stretches the microphone out towards him.
Drew McIntyre: Now I’m not going disclose the details of the conversation I just had in that office, but if anyone thinks that I will be altering the way I go about my business then they’ve got another thing coming. The mission still remains the same, and anyone that stands in the way or opposes it is not going to have a pleasant experience doing so. Will Ospreay got a taster of that last week when he didn’t do as he was told, and as for Eddie Guerrero, let’s just say that’s a situation that I will be explaining fully in due course… But now it’s the turn of Edge to decide on whether he wants to spend the coming nights nursing only bruises at home in his own bed, or if he’d rather be strapped in to uncomfortable one at the local hospital with tubes and life support for company instead of his loving wife. Frankly either option works for me, but if I were him I would think more about putting the role of a father ahead of trying to go out there and conquer the unconquerable…
As the final words leave his mouth, McIntyre walks off frame in order to prepare for his match with Edge whilst Kayla breathes a hugh sigh of relief before the live feed cuts away to a commercial break.
We head down to the ring where Eddie Kingston is already standing by, pacing in the ring.
As, “See Me Shine” by Bone Thugz-n-Harmony begins to play, the UWF fans immediately begin to boo as they know who the theme music belongs to and who they’re inevitably about to have to look at. Not missing a beat, out walks Batista with the Hollywood Championship proudly on him as he makes his way down the ramp to the ring.
Tony Chimel: From Washington, D.C. Weighing in at two hundred and ninety pounds. He is the reigning Hollywood Champion and the leader of The Guild, the, “Hollywood Animal”, BAATIIISSSSTTTTAAAA!!!
Batista goes to the nearest turnbuckle and ascends it, using the opportunity to show off the belt once more before stepping down and getting ready for the match ahead.
VS 
DING DING DING
Both men rush out the gate and start swinging on each other. Eddie manages to get the upperhand and Batista uses his power to just shove him away. He bounces off the rooes and comes back with a Shoulder Block but it's notr enough to take Big Dave down. He points to the ropes and telle Eddie to try again. Kingston runs to the ropes and comes back but Batista goes low with a Spear! Eddie gets cut right in half and Batista goes for the pin right away!
1 . . .
2 . . .
Kingston kicks out!
Tom Phillips: Batista just almost got his revenge right there.
Corey Graves: Eddie is notihng moire than a joke and the only reason he beat Batista was because of those knuckleheads Goldust and The Miz. Burger Kingston won't be so lucky this time.
Mauro Ranallo: You know that name was clever the first time but I feel like it's really run it's course.
Corey Graves: You know who doesn't run? Burger Kingston!
Mauro and Tom both shake their damn heads but Batista meanwhile picks up Eddie and lifts him over his shoulder. He walks him to the corner and delivers Snake Eyes. Batista then takes off to the ropes as Eddie stumbles out of the corner. He's going for another Spear but Kingston manages to get the boot up and kick in in the face! The Hollywood Animal stumbles to a knee and Kingston is quick to catch him with a DDT! Batista rolls away to the corner and Eddie comes over to wash his face with his boot. He's being all sorts of grimy, burying the boot and twisting it all over Batista's face.
Corey Graves: How dare that gutter trash mess with his money maker!
Mauro Ranallo: If you ask me, Eddie Kingston is trying to make Batista more money by turning his face into a Picasso!
The ref gets on Eddie who backs away to prevent a DQ. He walks back over to him and gets him out of the corner. He gets behind him and pulls back on both arms for the Tiger Suplex but Batista manages to get low and anchor himself down. He breaks one arm free but that's all he needs to elbow Eddie in the side of the head and break free. He grabs onto Eddie's arm and pulls him in for a Short Arm Clothesline but Eddie ducks it and ends up pulling him into an Exploder Suplex! Batista fights through the pain and gets back to his feet to rush at Eddie who scoops him up into a Side Slam Backbreaker! He makes the pin!
1 . . .
2 . . .
Batista kicks out! Kingston brings Batista up and kicks him in the gut. He's picks Batista up enough for a Piledriver but Batista plants his feet back down and flips Eddie over with a Back Body Drop. Eddie rolls out of the ring but the Hollywood Animal goes out with him and grabs him from behind only to throw him into the steel ring post! If that wasn't enough he picks Eddie and throws him into the barricade. Big Dave walks away and people think he's just walking around but he was creating some distance and he comes running back and goes to Spear Eddie but he sidesteps and Batista goes rushing through the barricade!
Mauro Ranallo: Batista just burst into the crowd like the Kool-Aid Man!
Tom Phillips: Oh yeah!
Eddie doesn't look 100% but he has enough wherewithal to see the opportunity. He comes over and picks up Batista and tosses him back into the ring. He slides in after him and stalks him from behind as he's getting to his feet. He grabs him at the side and executes a devastating Saito Suplex! Batista however doesn't know how to stay down. It's clear he's not level headed as he struggles to get back up but it's almost like he's an autopilot. Eddie backs away into the corner to watch him get into position. He runs at him, maybe going for a Lariat, we'll never know as Batista scoops him up into a Spinebuster! He makes the pin!
1 . . .
2 . . .
Kingston kicks out!
Corey Graves: Someone needs to teach this loser when to stay down.
Tom Phillips: Wouldn't a loser be someone who stays down?
Mauro Ranallo: Don't go throwing logic around in an argument with Corey.
Corey Graves: Screw the both of you!
Batista gets to his feet and brings Eddie up along with him. He kicks him in the gut and gets him in position to end things. He lifts him up into the Batista Bomb but Eddie punches down on his head causing him to stumbles into the corner where Eddie stands on the ropes and keeps delivering punches until he bites down on his forehead! Batista shoves him off and Eddie lands flat on the mat hard. He gets back up and Batista comes over to him but gets caught with a Spinning Back Fist! Batista falls to his knees and Eddie hits the ropes and blasts him in the back of the head with the American D! He makes the pin!
1 . . .
2 . . .
3 . . .
Tony Chimel: Here is your winner, Eddie Kingston!
We cut back to the backstage area to see MJF watching looking displeased. Eddie talks shit to the camera, knowing MJF is watching him as the feed goes elsewhere.
The crowd is absolutely going crazy at how good the show has been so far, but they all turn their attention to the titantron, as the scene cuts to The Mafia’s lounge where Finn Balor is seen holding his Television Championship with both of his Hitmen behind him. The crowd goes quiet as they wait attentively to hear what Finn Balor has to say.
Finn Balor
For the past week my phone has been buzzing and I would’ve thought it was because Dom ran over that old sucker, but it was once again because of Cody Rhodes. For the past week I've been crowded with questions about why Cody did what he did last week, why he claimed to “respect The Mafia”. If anything you all should be asking Cody Rhodes and that snake Randy Orton why they feel as though they should respect The Mafia. Maybe it’s because they’re tired of getting their asses kicked, or they really came to the realization that I’m the hottest star coming and they just wanna ride my coattails. I gotta admit though, I gotta respect Cody Rhodes because unlike some of you poor folk who actually don't have any common sense Cody actually knows who is the superior. But I don’t trust him for one second, I’ve been around a long time I know just how this thing goes, If he really respects The Mafia he’s gonna have to show me…
Before Finn Balor could start another sentence Cody Rhodes and Randy Orton appeared on the screen.
Cody Rhodes
Can’t you get it through your thick little skull Finn, I don’t want to fight against you any more. The odds are decent in your favor at 2-3 but imagine if we all fight alongside each other instead of against each other. The Mafia can become a different level of strength. If we can put together what we have put on battles in the past, imagine the damage we really could do if we were to align. It’s only right, trust me on this man.
Finn Balor stops Cody as he was speaking and cuts him off.
Finn Balor
Trust Who? I could never trust you Cody, but hear what I’m gonna do I’m gonna throw ya a bone and call a truce for right now. As for proving yourself you’re still at the top of the rankings for the television championship and I still need an opponent for Backlash, So How about we go at it one more time pal, let’s see just how different things are.
Finn Balor bumps into Cody Rhodes and Randy Orton as the pair just shakes their heads and the Mafia leaves.
The titantron switches from the UWF Revolution graphic to a live feed from backstage. Kyle O'Reilly and Bayley are shown walking down the hall, looking like they just arrived at the venue, all dressed up in their normie clothes and carrying their bags. Who do they pass on their way to the locker room if no the game's best backstage correspondent, Renee Young!
Young: Hey, excuse me - Kyle, I was hoping I could get a quick few questions before your match with Spike Dudley tonight.
The Diabetic Dragon stops and turns like he's ready to oblige, but then Bayley just ushers him along.
Bayley: Don't sweat it, Kyle. I got this. You go on ahead and get ready.
Kyle looks from Renee to Bayley, then from Bayley to Renee, shakes his head and then just carries on down that hall while Bayley fills in for him. Young doesn't looks thrilled about the stand-in, but she's a consummate professional through-and-through.
Young: Okay... uh... well... thanks for joining me then, Bayley.
Bayley: No problem, Renee. And can I just say, you look smokin' tonight?
Renee notes the emphasis on the adjective but doesn't mention it, instead getting straight to business.
Young: So tonight your step-brother will go one-on-one with the Ultimate Underdog Spike Dudley for the first time ever. Kyle isn't usually one to tip his hat towards his opponents, but both men have gone on record about having a mutual respect for each other. How does that change up the game plan?
The "Good Guy" rolls her eyes.
Bayley; Yeah, yeah, yeah... its a big love-fest between these two now, but wait until that bell rings. Mike Tyson said everyone's got a plan till they get punched in the face. Well the same thing applies here. The second that Spike Dudley lands a shot on my step-brother, its gonna get personal for him. That's just the way he's hardwired. This match might start with a handshake and a smile, but a minute in, it'll be the same old Diabetic Dragon we all know and love. Trust me!
She tries to sell it with a confident smile, but there's an undeniable nervousness behind it.
Young: Obviously we can't look past a man with a penchant for upsets like Spike, but let's say that Kyle picks up the win tonight. Where do you think that places him in the contenders' queue and do you two have any plans for a match at Backlash?
Bayley: Renee, you're a smart lady. You've got your ear to the ground and your finger on the pulse. No doubt you've noticed that we've ruffled some feathers on Big Bird Ospeay these past couple of weeks. That clown thought he could pull a fast one on our pals Edge and Christian and found out real quick that that kinda crap isn't gonna fly around here.
Now nothing's like... ya know... "officially official" yet... and honestly? If Will knows what's good for him, he'll stay in his lane, keep his head down and mind his own business. But I got a feeling that he just isn't capable of that kind of humility. So if and when he steps to the O'Reilly's again, we're gonna be waiting for him. Revolution, Backlash... my step-brother operates on a "any time, any place" system.
It'll be three wins straight after he finishes Spike later on. If Will wants to be number four in this hot streak, we'll be happy to add him to the list. After that? You'd better believe that Kyle's name is gonna the first one out of everybody's mouths when they're talking about who gets the next title shot. It doesn't even what belt! Hell, why not all of 'em? We hit a little speed bump at Mania but we're juuuuuuust about back on course. A couple more wins and we'll be cruising, Renee.
Young: One more question - last week, Corey Graves had some pretty scathing criticisms of you on commentary, suggesting that you might be more of a hindrance than a help in Kyle's corner. Things have seemed... well... a little tense between you and Kyle since Wrestlemania, too. Any comment?
Bayley looks shocked, like this is all news to her. She turns and takes a few steps away, biting down on her lip as she cools her jets and composes herself to respond.
Bayley: Aha... okay... yeah... ummmm... well, first off, I'll tell Corey that he can mind his own bee's wax and if he has anything he wants to say to my face, he can put on his big boy pants, take the long walk around his cute little table to the side where the action actually happens and then see how tough he really is.
And as for me and Kyle? We're great! Never been better. You can't blame the guy for being bummed out after dropping the Prime Time Medal to LA Knight - who, side-note - just got served up a steaming plate of hot karma. That's beside the point thought. No, the point is that me and Kyle both want the same thing for him and whether Corey Graves likes it or not, I'm gonna be in my step-bro's corner cheering him on every week as he fights his way to the top of this whole company.
Young: Alright. Thanks for your time, Bayley.
Bayley: Always a pleasure!
The "Good Guy" goes to find her step-brother while Renee signs off. Revolution rolls on!
[after what happen last month's party Latino heat Eddie Guerrero shook the champagne
bottle onto The Scottish Warrior Drew McIntyre and splash it all over him until he enters the ring with an microphone while talking to the UWF universe]
Latino heat|Eddie Guerrero: Hola UWF We had an amazing fiesta last April now before we get to something stupid allow me say that I was dump to shake that champagne bottle into the
Scottish Warrior face like that but it was his fault he shouldn't be in the way when I was
trying to Celebrate our party and he had a bad temperature for throwing stuff and he was about to hit my mamacita when she is carrying my unborn first child but he didn't so after he was beaten up people and throwing chairs and flipping tables why not have ourselves an Tables n chairs like TLC match at backlash for an No'1 Contender for Finn's No'1 Contender for the TV Championship in two week's at Revolution for Balor's UWF TV Championship on UWF network.
UWF Universe: Eddie, Eddie Eddie Eddie, Eddie!
Latino Heat: So I would like to welcome The Scottish Warrior Drew McIntyre to come meet me in this very ring and accept my challenge at Backlash for an TLC match on UWF.
(Eddie invites Drew McIntyre to the ring to discuss some issues about him accept the match for Backlash)
Latino Heat|Eddie Guerrero: I'm in here to say to you man to man that I am totally sorry for what I did to you when you crashed my party last month and I was telling these Latino Heat that you and I should have a TLC match at backlash unless you're not up for the challenge against Latino Heat cause you know that you and I both lost our singles match but I also win the tag match several months ago but I'm not with that right now I'm focusing on you Drew. that you almost hit my pregnant Mamacita when you was having a fit when I popped the bottle and spray the Alcohol all over you in that's why I need approval that you and I should fight each other where the winner faces The Mafia member for his TV Championship at Revolution in less than two weeks tops when we have an TLC match and there will be a TV No'1 Contender Contract will be above the ladder so are you in or not Drew cause these Latino Heat people would love to see Latino Heat verses The Scottish Warrior Drew McIntyre faces Eddie Guerrero in a TLC match for an No'1 Contender for the TV Championship at backlash on UWF network.
Latino Heat|Eddie Guerrero: So Drew McIntyre. I'll be seeing you tonight on Revolution until you accept my challenge for an TLC match for an No'1 Contender of the TV Championship on top above of the ring cause you and I will fight at UWF's backlash.
Latino Heat|Eddie Guerrero: and I just got one thing to Say about you McIntyre. Viva La Raza
See you at backlash Vato and joy your nice evening on Revolution.
[Eddie exits out of the ring and heads back up towards the ramp and goes checking on his beautiful wife Eve Torres Guerrero when Drew McIntyre is in action next]
Tony Chimel: Ladies and gentlemen, the following contest is scheduled for one fall! Introducing first –
A sick 80s inspired beat starts to pulsate through the arena as the lights dim and lasers in all sorts of rad colors begin to dance around the stage area. We're talking magenta, cyan, purple, orange, it's lit up like a Pink Floyd show. After a few seconds of this beat building with some flourishes, you here the familiar phrase:
YOU THINK YOU KNOW ME
And after it, the beat picks up harder, and as the synth begins to belt out an instrumental version of Edge's most iconic theme, you see him, emerging from a cloud of smoke to strobe lights in the same colors as the lasers, which are now dancing around the whole arena. There's no animalistic prowling across the stage, just a smooth swagger to his stride. A smirk on his lips as he matches his stride to the vibe of the music. At ringside, he waits for the music to start to swell again and as it does, he slides into the ring. As it would kick into the second chorus (like if there were actual words) he ascends the turnbuckle and poses as the ring announcer does what he's paid to do.
Chimel
Hailing from Toronto, Ontario, Canada, weighing in at 240 pounds, Edge!
Edge heads to the corner to stretch in prep for the contest ahead.
Chimel: And introducing his opponent...
As the sound of metal clashing echoes around the building, “Wish It Away” by Psycho Dalek starts to play and out from behind the curtain steps Drew McIntyre, ready to get down to business. The Scotsman slowly walks towards the top of the ramp and takes a moment to stop and look at the ground, before throwing his head back and beginning his walk towards the ring.
Chimel: From Ayr, Scotland. Weighing in at 265 pounds. He is The Destroyer, Drew McIntyre!
As the self-proclaimed Destroyer reaches the end of the ramp, he makes a turn towards the steel ring steps and takes another pause before smacking the top of them with his open right hand, not once, but twice, before climbing them and entering the ring through the middle rope. Once inside, McIntyre heads for the opposite turnbuckle and climbs to the top rope in order to perch and observe his outer surroundings for a moment before dropping back down and unclipping his ring coat in order to prepare himself for the upcoming contest.
DING DING!
That starting bell rings and McIntyre and Edge immediately move in on one another. McIntyre tries to catch Edge in a basic collar-and-elbow, but the wily Canuck slips through his grasp and grabs his head on the way by, dropping him with a very basic neckbreaker. McIntyre is up as quickly as Edge is and this time he does catch him in the grapple before powering him into a simple, side headlock. McIntyre works the hold pretty aggressively, but Edge manages to drive him to the ropes and then slip free as he Irish whips the big Scot across the ring. Edge dashes a half-step after him, and as Drew rebounds off the rope he does so into a dropkick that takes him to the canvas, clutching his jaw.
Tom Phillips: We are mere minutes onto this one-on-one contest and the former world champion has been pretty clearly in control.
Corey Graves: Pretty clearly in control? I'd like to know what match you're watching, Tom, because the one before me is about as clear as mud when it comes to determining who is in control.
Mauro Ranallo: Well, this isn't going to make things any clearer – look who is joining us!
Eddie Guerrero and Eve Torres-Guerrero start their slow descent down the ramp to the ring to applause from the fans. McIntyre has recovered by this point, and driven Edge into a corner where he is unloading on him with a number of hard kicks to the gut before lifting the boot to choke him with it. The official starts a count and reaches four before McIntyre pulls back, taking several steps toward the center of the ring. His eyes fixate on Latino Heat as he approaches the ring, a sadistic grin creeping across the Scottish Psychopath's lips. Just as Eddie reaches the base of the ramp, Drew hits the ropes opposite and comes bounding toward Eddie's side of the ring before leaping clear over the top rope! Eve steps out of the way but Eddie doesn't have sharp enough reflexes in the moment and is caught by 265 pounds of airborne Ayrshire man.
Ranallo: Mamma mia! Tope con hilo!!!
Drew gets back to his feet and throws his hair over one shoulder as the fans rain hate down on him. His cold, killer gaze turns to Eve but he doesn't touch her because she's pregnant and only monsters would do that. Instead he turns toward the ring again, but as he does he's taken to the ground by Edge, who dives between the ropes suicide style!
Ranallo: TOPE SUICIDA!
Graves: Calm down, Mauro, will ya?
Edge gets to his feet quickly and pulls Drew up, rolling him into the ring. Eddie is also to his feet now and is imploring Edge to let him at the Scottish Psychopath, but the Canadian turns toward him and shakes his head, advising Eddie to head back to his locker room and warning him not to spoil the match with any interference. Guerrero holds his hands up in the air in mock surrender, but clearly has no intention of leaving as Edge slides back into the ring and Eddie turns to the crowd, revealing he had fingers crossed on both hands with a mischievous look.
McIntyre is already on one knee on the opposite side of the ring as Edge runs at him prepared to deliver a facebuster off the knee, but as he leaps, McIntyre rolls out to one side and Edge lands harmlessly on the canvas before stumbling into the ropes. Drew gets the opening he needs as he stands behind Edge, grabbing him in the German suplex clutch and getting massive lift as he throws the Ultimate Opportunist overhead. Edge lands with a sickening thud on his neck and shoulders and the back of his head, and he's folded in half as Drew covers him.
1...
2...
...No! Edge kicks out!
Phillips: McIntyre with an absolutely brutal release German suplex there, but Edge found a way to kick out.
Graves: Moves like that are the sort of things that can end a wrestler's career. And Edge, with his history of concussions, a suplex like that – all I'm saying is Danhausen might not be the last person McIntyre puts on the shelf.
McIntyre looks to the ref and holds up three fingers, but the official shakes his head and firmly declares the count was accurate. The Scot then runs a big hand through his damp, sweaty hair before standing up from one knee, bringing Edge up with him. Drew sends the former World Champion into the corner and runs in with an elbow strike to the side of the head, before delivering several more. Edge is visibly dazed as Drew washes his face with a hand to some heavy boos from the crowd.
Ranallo: And now the Scottish Warrior is showing blatant disrespect to his veteran opponent.
Drew grabs Edge by the hair and pulls the dazed Canadian away from the turnbuckles before tucking a head under his arm and lifting him up and over with a picture-perfect Northern Suplex! Drew goes into a bridge for the cover.
1...
2...
...No! Edge kicks out at 2 1/2!
Graves: McIntyre is putting on a clinic here with these highlight-worthy holds, but Edge gets the shoulder up in the last moment.
McIntyre stands and smirks as the fans shower him with contempt. The heat gets worse when he moves to the ringside and says something disgusting about Eve, right in front of Eddie. But just as he moves to the corner to position for the Claymore, Eve hops onto the apron! The official is right there to censure her and tell her to get down, but she has Drew's attention.
Unfortunately for Drew, the distracted referee is all Eddie needs to get his payback. His smaller hand grabs Drew's shoulder. McIntyre wheels about with a wild swing, but Eddie evades it by grabbing the ropes and leaning back, then surges back forward with a closed-fist punch right between the eyes! McIntyre reels in what initially looks like an oversell, clutching at his face, but as the hard cam catches a glimpse he is visibly split open. Guerrero is snickering as he hops off the apron and kisses Eve's engagement ring, worn proudly on his finger! The fans pop for this – and the pop gets even louder when Drew turns around and eats a Spear from Edge! He hooks the leg!
Phillips: Spear from Edge!
1...
2...
...3!
DING DING DING!
Here is your winner:
EDGE!
Graves: Absolutely disgusting! Eddie Guerrero cheap shots Drew McIntyre just as he's about to win the match and now the Scottish Psychopath is off to an 0-2 start.
Ranallo: Edge lived up to his nickname tonight, stealing a victory from the jaws of defeat with a healthy assist.
Phillips: What is it you always say, Corey? The only thing the history books will show is the W?
Edge celebrates only briefly before bailing from the ring, not wanting to risk McIntyre's murderous wrath. That's a wise move as when Drew does get back to his feet, he hits the official tending to him with a Glasgow Kiss and then hits him with the Claymore when he groggily finds his feet. The official isn't moving, but the show moves on.
With the show continuing on as per normal, the scene would shift from wherever it is to…well, a space that looks completely different from anything else that’s been seen in the UWF so far. It isn’t the locker room, considering not only is there nobody else there, but there’s none of the typical staples of the room either. It doesn’t even look to be part of the arena, but surely it must be, for where else could it exist?
No matter its location, what sets it apart from any other location seen so far is the rather…technologically advanced surroundings - numerous computer monitors are scattered throughout, displaying various bits and pieces of past shows, be they recent or from years past. One thing remains consistent though, for those with the eye of an eagle - every last clip being shown features one consistent person within them:
Trevor Lee: ”...Mista’ Shark…”
Cutting over to the current UWF World Heavyweight Champion and self-proclaimed “God of professional wrestling”, Trevor Lee is sat in front of these monitors, trying to study each and every one of them to the best of his ability. There’s no expression on his face - all that shows is a steeled determination.
Trevor Lee: ”So ya’ wish to brin’ the fight on to Harlan’s doorstep, don’cha? Ya’ got ya’ troops all riled up, got ya’ men all set for this war o’ yas’...but mista’ Shark, it seems ya’ truly don’ understan’ jus’ what ya’ steppin’ into…”
Not even turning to face the camera, Trevor just continues watching the monitors, as though he is talking to himself and that this is only being picked up accidentally by the camera crew…perhaps this may be the case, but it is clear that no answer will be given on this question, as Lee goes to continue.
Trevor Lee: ”I ‘ave said it ‘fore, an’ I shall say it again: nobody leaves Harlan alive, mista’ Shark. Take the last person who got themselves involved so deeply wit’ myself that they stormed into my town as a one-man army. The las’ man who stepped foot into Harlan, he may ‘ave burnt down the church and tore down the house o’ God that I had built for my people, but he did not leave that town unscathed. A part o’ him died on that night, mista’ Shark - the part o’ him that truly thought the fans believed in him, the part o’ him that made the fans crave his victory an’ become apathetic to his defeat. It may not ‘ave been a physical death, but it was the death o’ an ego, mista’ Shark, one that he has still yet to recover from.”
With a thousand-yard stare into the monitors, Trevor Lee takes a moment of silence on behalf of the old Leyton Buzzard, before continuing.
Trevor Lee: ”So, what do ya’ think’s gonna’ happen when ya’ an’ ya’ pals step foot into Harlan? Do ya’ think that ya’ stronger than the curse that has affected each an’ every person who’s ever fought ‘gainst it? Or is it that ya’ jus’ think what I’m sayin’ now is jus’ another lie, jus’ another part o’ the supposed mask that I’ve been wearin’, mista’ Shark?”
Trevor Lee shakes his head, his ramblings becoming more pointed in their assault on Shark Boy as a human being, rather than anything to do with him inside of the ring.
Trevor Lee: ”Are ya’ truly that stupid, mista’ Shark, to not see what Harlan has already done to one o’ ya’ own? Do ya’ not see how mista’ Grado is decayin’ right ‘fore ya’ very eyes, becomin’ clouded wit’ the same doubts, the same hesitance, the same in-se-cur-i-ties that plagued mista’ Buzzard when he left that there town? How he so desperately wishes to stay outta’ Harlan, knowin’ that returnin’ will only make their own pain an’ sufferin’ worse, knowin’ that he will be forced to watch his own friens’ suffer the same fate as himself once they step one foot into my domain…Grado is tryin’ to look out for ya’, mista’ Shark, like a frien’ is s’posed to do, an’ ya’ simply ignore him…”
Another shake of his head, and the feed on the monitors temporarily pauses, each screen freeze-framed on Shark Boy celebrating some big victory, each one of them showing the mask hiding his face…
Trevor Lee: ”The warnin’ signs are all ‘round ya’ mista’ Shark. They’ve been callin’ to ya’ lef’, right an’ center. Each an’ every step o’ this ‘ere journey o’ yours has come with cautions an’ advisories, tryin’ to make sure that ya’ were sure this was the path that ya’ wanted to take, an’ yet ya’ keep ignorin’ them. I even tried to help ya’, mista’ Shark. I tol’ ya’ right to ya’ face what ya’ faults were, an’ yet ya’ continue to push right pas’ the signs for this war ya’ tryin’ to wage…”
After a few seconds of silence, only NOW does Trevor Lee finally turn in their chair, facing the camera with a soft, barely-present smile on his face.
Trevor Lee: ”Well, keep marchin’ on in this ‘ere war, soldier. Keep on marchin’ towards this war, ‘cause when ya’ finally get face-to-face wit’ me? Ya’ can bring ya’ war an’ ya soldiers an’ all ya’ drive an’ determination, ‘cause I ain’t goin’ to war wit’ ya, mista’ Shark. I’m goin’ to continue my CRUSADE ‘gainst ya’, mista’ Shark, an’ it ain’t goin’ to stop until I accomplish what I said that I would back at Wrestlemania - leave ya’ broken physically, mentally, emotionally, psychologically, an’ spiritually, until all that remains o’ ya’ is the mask I shall rip off o’ ya’ face an’ carry wit’ me as a perpetual reminder o’ what happens to those who try an’ step up to God himself.”
With that soft smirk on his face, Trevor Lee turns back to the monitors, and the videos resume playing…
The opening bells of the New York Stock Exchange ring throughout the arena, as "Longhorn" blares loudly, signaling the arrival of The Wrestling God. The crowd in the arena is quick to break out into a chorus of boo's, showing their disdain for John "Bradshaw" Layfield. As the lights flicker between gold and green and the camera pans around the crowd, we see JBL's trademark limousine, complete with longhorns on the hood, push through the stage curtains and pull up to the side of the Revolution stage. As the limo comes to a stop, the driver hurries out of the front seat, and rushes towards the back seat door, which has been emblazoned with JBL's logo. The driver opens the door and out steps "The One Man Conglomerate" with a huge smile on his face. Layfield is wearing his ring jacket with a towel tucked in and wrapped around his neck, and his white cowboy hat. He looks around the arena and removes his hat, waving it at the crowd as he makes his way towards the stage.
Tony Chimel: Making his way to the ring, weighting in at 290 pounds, from New York City - John "Bradshaw" Layfield - JBL!
Layfield walks down the ramp and waves his hat around towards the crowd, completely oblivious to how much these fans detest him. Layfield trots down the ramp, before he stops and looks at a fan at ringside with a look of disgust on his face. He scoffs and smirks as he walks down the ramp and up the stairs into the ring. He stops and removes his hat again, and throws his arms out, which draws a big reaction from an irate crowd. Layfield enters the ring, and places his hat back on his head, while he walks over to the turnbuckle. He pulls himself up to the top rope and again removes his hat and waves his arms out to his side, drawing another huge chorus of boo's from the crowd. JBL hops down and finally begins to focus his attention to the match at hand.
“Catch your breath” begins to blast through the pa system as the crowd stand to their feet as they hear the theme song Everybody turns their attention to the entrance ramp to watch Finn Balor walk out onto the stage. Finn Balor walks out onto the stage in his blue leather jacket and blue trunks and quickly embraces the crowd as he walks out.
Tony Chimel: Weighing In at 180lbs from Ireland, Finn Balor!
The lights begin to flash, making the crowd go wild. Finn Balor times his theme song perfectly and taunts the crowd as the lights flash. After taunting Finn Balor throws up his collar on his jacket and proceeds to walk down the ramp and make his way to the ring. Balor then climbs onto the turnbuckle and begins to showboat the crowd once more as the light flickers. Finn Balor hops off of the turnbuckle and looks like he's ready to fight when suddenly he instead asks for a microphone.
Finn BalorI've been thinking a lot lately and to be quite honest, I don't think you're ready to go toe to toe with the Television Champion. You need to learn the pecking order around here and luckily I know someone more than capable of putting you in your place.
JBL gets blasted from behind with a Dropkick by none other than Dominic Mysterio! The ref goes ahead and calls for the bell!
VS 
DING DING DING
JBL crawls over to the corner but Dominik just continues to put the boots to him. He starts choking him out with his boot all while The Mafia laugh at ringside at JBL's misfortune. Dom backs away before the ref can disqualify him but goes right back to the so called Wrestling God and picks him up. He points to Priest as if to sya, this one's for you and goes to get JBL up in a Chokeslam but Bradshaw clobbers him with side elbows to the side of the head and follows that up with a shove back into the ropes. Mafia Dom comes off them and runs right into a Big Boot! JBL makes the pin!
1 . . .
2 . . .
Dominik kicks out! JBL grabs him by the ear like the little shit he is and brings him back up to a vertical base. He gives him a stiff punch to the gut that sends him in retreat to the corner. From there, The One Man Conglomerate gives him a few more punches to the gut before picking him up and walking with him to the ropes. He goes for the Fallaway Slam but Dominik ends up pushing off and landing on his feet as JBL goes down. He goes to get back up as quick as possible but Dom Dropkicks him in the face! JBL rolls out of the ring instinctively but that might not be such a good idea. Dominik acts like he hurt his back and tells the ref he's hurt as the Mafia comes up to JBL.
Mauro Ranallo: And it looks like the vultures are beginning to swarm.
Tom Phillips: JBL calls himself the One Man Conglomerate but after tonight I think he may want to call in some back up.
Priest tells JBL that he's not good enough to face the TV Champion. JBL is getting up and manages to shove him away only for Balor to come over and hit him with the Slingblade. Priest picks up JBL and tosses him back into the ring. Dominik is suddenly healed and goes over to to the top rope. JBL lays in the middle of the ring a Dom comes off with a Frog Splash! He lands flush on Bradshaw and hooks the leg for a deep cover.
1 . . .
2 . . .
JBL kicks out! Dominik being the little shit that he is smacks John in the back of the head a few times as a sign of disrespect. All this does is piss off the Wrestling God who shoves him away. Mysterio comes back over and goes for a Suplex but JBL reverses into one of his own. Dom rolls out to the apron but JBL follows him over. He goes to pick him up over the ropes but Dominik grabs his head and jumps down, hanging him off the apron! JBL turns away holding his throat choking as Dom pops back up. He springboards into the ring comes flying in with a Crossbody but JBL catches him in mid air! He shakes his head and throws him down with the Fallaway Slam! He quickly goes for the pin!
1 . . .
2 . . .
Dominic gets the shoulder up at 2! JBL ain't about to just let up on this kid. He picks him up right away and shoves his head between his legs. He looks at the Mafia and mimes putting a cigar out Dom's back before he goes to lift him up in a Powerbomb. Dom fights back with some punches to the head and manages to give him a Hurincanrana and JBL goes stumbling and falls into the middle ropes.
Mauro Ranallo: Looks like it's time to dial it up!
Corey Graves: Mafia Dom is going to prove himself tonight!
Dominik goes running towards him with the 619 but JBL pushes off the ropes and runs to the other side. Dom does a 360 from the miss and spins around walking towards the center of the ring but gets blasted with a Clothesline From Hell! His boots nearly go flying off as JBL makes the pin!
1 . . .
2 . . .
3 . . .
Tony Chimel: Here is your winner, John Bradshaw Layfield!
JBL raises his hands up in victory but Balor and Priest slide in right away. JBL decks Priest with a knee as he's coming in to knock him to the floor while Balor comes swinging in with his title in hand. JBL kicks it out of his hands and goes for a Clothesline From Hell but Balor drops and rolls out of the ring. JBL ends up picking up the TV title and holds it, daring The Mafia to come back in as they drag Dominik out to safety. They're angry but suddenly smile when Orton slithers in behind JBL, spinning him around into an RKO! Cody comes in right after and the Mafia come running back in. Balor yells at Cody to pick up JBL and hold him. He does what he's told and Balor blasts him in the face with the TV title! The new Mafia are all laughing and raise their hands over the fallen JBL as the show moves on.
Revolution has been everything you have expected it to be and even more. The crowd are buzzing, the superstars are buzzing, just buzzing all around the place. The scene fades to black, leaving everything in darkness before the titantron and tv screens flash back into life. The crowd are greeted by a familiar face. Everyone loves this face as it's the backstage interviewer Renee Young.
Renee: Good Evening Ladies and Gentlemen. My name is Renee Young and at this moment in time, I have an interview with the Smallest Dudley from Dudleyville, Uncle Spike Dudley. Since last week ended well and not with anyone interrupting me time, we thought I would come to him again so please follow me as we go inside Spike's changing room.
Renee drops the mic down, the camera zooms out showing Renee standing right outside the door that says "Dudley". Obviously all the money is going on Batista's office sign as they can't even fit Spike's full name onto his. Renee knocks on the door, waiting patiently for an answer. She waits for a little while, nothing happening and looking a little flushed so she knocks again. Almost instantly we can hear a faint "Come in". Renee listens to this request. The camera follows Renee into Spike's lockeroom. Spike has his back to her as he is sitting in a chair. His not sitting normally though as his leaning back with his knees to the side. His arms are behind his back. Spike's knees are slowly moving up, unsure of what he is doing as the chair and his back is blocking it. Once again, just like last week, Renee clears her throat.
Renee: Spike, I asked this last week but what are you doing?
Spike's knees going further out to the side.....a noise can be heard. Something hitting the ground. Spike starts to shakes his head, letting out a grasp and pulling his arms out. He puts them to his head, like his seen a ghost before getting up from the chair, quickly turning around to look at Renee. We see behind Spike on the ground, a plastic cup....about the size of a pint.
Spike: One of these days Renee.....I'm going to find out if I can do something that is discussed during the week leading up to Revolution without you distracting me. I was this close to finding out if I could still drink with my feet. Now I won't be able to answer Bayley until Kyle does manage to rip my arms off and place them in a sling.
Renee: Well, this all did start from when you interrupted my smoko?
Spike: Hey hey, I did that for your benefit. Smoking kills. Smoking makes you sick. Smoking does bad things. Did Kyle win at WrestleMania after he bummed a drag off of you? No!! Now I'm not a betting man but I bet he could have gone just a little bit longer if he didn't have that smoke still swirling in his lungs.
Renee: I would just like to remind you Spike that you aren't my mum and smoking actually helps me relax. Last week I had 4 interviews I had to do. It's highly stressful dealing with the different superstars from UWF. I always have to be switched on.
Spike: You know what, that's fair. Still, I wish there was a healthy way for you to do it but anyway, let's move on from that. You and I are on good terms and I bet you enjoyed Stacy being back in UWF last week.
Renee: It was great seeing my girl back in UWF. It was quite a surprise. She should have told me she was going to be here. We could have caught up!!
Spike: Hey, it was a surprise to me too. I didn't expect her to be there but hey, she keeps surprising me at work..... I may as well go to EC3 and talk about a contract for her.
Renee: YES YES YES.... please do. I'd love to have her back.
Spike: Yer, I'll think about it but one thing I do know is recently, EC3 has alot on his plate. I might give it some time and leave him to deal with the hit and run and things like that what happened last week. It's hard to keep up these days.
Renee: So much happening but tonight, tonight is simple for you. Tonight Spike, you face off against Kyle O'Reilly for the first time in your career. How are you looking towards this match?
Spike: Oh and just like that we are back into interview mode. Sweet....cool with me but am I looking forward to this match? Hell yes I am. I'm in the main event of Revolution once again against the guy that I respect the most on this roster. It may even be my dream match, just turn around Renee and have a look at that.
Renee turns around, looking towards the locker room door which is closed as the camera twirls around as well. On the back of the door is a poster of Kyle O'Reilly.
Renee turns back around, smiling and nodding her head as Spike nods is head, not saying it but you just know his thinking "Right". Renee must be thinking the same thing as Spike goes to speak.
Spike: They say never meet your heroes but I'm deeply honored to meet one of mine in the ring. Tonight Renee, tonight I get pushed to my limits because I know Kyle will come with everything he has. At the end of the day, I honestly believe this match will just come down to who needs it more. We are both as good as each other. The things he lacks, I make up for but the things I lack.....he has them aplenty. This is a battle of the good guys. This is the main event that UWF deserves and I'm more then happy to give it to everyone. Remember this night Renee because this match will be spoken about for years to come.
Renee: I know I certainly will be watching it and hoping for a great match. That takes care of tonight Spike. Looking into the future after this match up tonight and even back to last week, are you going to take Samoa Joe up on his offer when I interviewed him?
Spike: His offer of coming to look for him and speaking directly to him? Well Renee, that was the first thing I did when I arrived here tonight. I looked for Samoa Joe but I couldn't find him. I have no problem in speaking to him and just letting him know how I feel..... I've spoken to bigger and badder men and let my feelings known but you are correct Joe. I'm a big man when I'm on camera and not face to face so how about I make you a deal? Uncle Spike Dudley will keep your name out of his mouth until you and I have a little chat. I'm quite excited to have a chat with you after what you did to Ciampa so I'll keep looking Joe and I'll stay silent. Make sure thought that next time I come knocking..... you answer my call.
Renee: His actually not a hard man to find. I've found him quite easily every week since his been back.
Spike: Well Renee, if you see him before I do.... you tell him I'm looking for him but you also tell him to watch my match tonight. I will show him how to handle business the right way with honor and respect......now if you would please excuse me Renee..... I have to get myself ready.
Spike gives Renee the thumbs up. She copies it and gives it back to him as they share a mutual smile. She turns, nearly jumping out of her skin with the Kyle O'Reilly poster on Spike's door as the camera fades to black going somewhere else in the arena.
The shot opens to a door, found slightly ajar with the words “Will Ospreay” stuck by tape to the front of this one panel door in particular, out of the possibly hundreds backstage. Ospreay sits upon an uncomfortable chair, deep in thought as the hurry of the backstage plays out as it does with every show, hidden behind the well-polished exterior of the stage. Will stares at The Commonwealth Kingpin through the mirror.
Three knocks ring out against the slightly soft door.
???
“Hey. Are you there?”
The Commonwealth Kingpin, too absorbed in his head, doesn’t hear the voice, much less the knocking at the door. The voice persists, the door creaking slightly as they make their way in.
???
“Hey, are you awake, or daydreaming?”
Ospreay snaps out of his trance, he turns his head to find a familiar face from his life in the form of Mark Davis. His expression immediately lightens.
“The Commonwealth Kingpin” Will Ospreay
“Mark? Bruv, it’s good to see you! What are you doing here? Did EC3 hire you?”
The previously unknown figure quickly makes himself comfortable within the small personal locker room, laying back to begin lounging on a sofa as soon as possible.
Mark Davis
“Mate… come on. You think he’d do that? No, he didn’t. Honestly, I’d found out that we happened to be in the same city this week… and I thought I’d pay you a visit to spend some time together instead of calling you over the phone constantly, thought it’d be a funny surprise too.”
Ospreay smirks and nods, a rare display of genuine happiness from an otherwise smarmy and cocksure individual.
Mark Davis
“And… Will - while I’m here… I wanted to ask. How are you feeling?”
Will’s look instantly sours.
“The Commonwealth Kingpin” Will Ospreay
“I’m doing fine, bruv. Like, good for you for asking and everything, but just because you’ve gotten your Masters of Clinical Psychology doesn’t mean you have to check up on me all the time, Mark. I’m absolutely fine.”
Mark Davis
“Hey, I don’t check up on you all the time… it’s only like, once a month... And I’m just trying to look out for you, especially with everything going on recently… Look, I’m not one to question you and all. But do you want my honest opinion, mate?”
“The Commonwealth Kingpin” Will Ospreay
“Whatever, go for it, I guess...”
Davis lets aloud a long sigh.
Mark Davis
“You look scattered. I mean - fuck. I know you, Will… you ARE scattered. And why, mate? What don’t you have at the moment that should change your mood for the better? A title? It can’t be as simple as that… right? Because it’s not. You want control. I saw you going off last week at that O’Reilly fella, before your fight… And - hey - I get it, like, I know you’re flat out, but it wasn’t necessary. You need to focus on a smaller goal, something other than ‘fixing the company’, it’s just not possible while you still serve someone else’s interests. Splitting your focus like that just ends you up like last week against the Scot, or like with old mate Spike, that Dudle–”
The Commonwealth Kingpin stands up instantly from his seat, lashing out at his friend as he fixates on the comments about Kyle and his ideology surrounding the forging of a stronger UWF roster.
“The Commonwealth Kingpin” Will Ospreay
“Stop! Kyle deserved every single bit of that, - you know that - and he deserves even more than that. He wants to pathetically stink up the locker rooms of this company for as long as he has? He doesn’t have even a fraction of a backbone that would let him stand his ground against a better man, let alone his own family… And I NEED to fix this company, everyone and their mothers pretend they give a shit, with their skewed ideologies, whilst they come here and get lost the moment the going gets tough. I’ve given proof enough that I’ve got the ability to make the mould, not just pour into it.”
Mark Davis
“You’re missing the point, mate. I wouldn’t ever say you don’t have talent, I mean, I’m like one of the few honest people left cheering in your corner. You just need to remember that things won’t work out for long if they continue in the ways they are, take that however way you will.”
Ospreay sighs, rubbing his face with his palm as the tension releases from his shoulders. A pause plagues the room for but a moment.
Mark Davis
“Anyways… We don’t have to keep talking about it right now. I’ll start to head off, I’ll see you for drinks later? I’ll shoot you a text or something after the show.”
“The Commonwealth Kingpin” Will Ospreay
“Yeah… sure. Thanks for stopping by anyways, Mark, good to see you…”
Davis leaves the scene as Will sits back down on the really uncomfortable seat, gazing once more into The Commonwealth Kingpin inside the mirror as he reflects on his newly-found food for thought. The scene begins to fade to black into the next segment.
The crowd are quiet, waiting for something to happen but the silence doesn't last long as fireworks shoot from the ceiling down onto the stage as a familiar theme song plays out of the PA System.
LET ME SEE YOU PUT EM UP,
REACH THE SKY, TOUCH THE STARS UP ABOVE
CAUSE IT'S ONE TIME FOR THE UNDERDOG
The crowd rise to their feet as they await for the appearance of the Runt of the Family. The crowd raise the noise levels as Spike Dudley emerges from the curtain. Spike is looking all business tonight, looking ready to go.
Spike pounds his chest, looking out into the crowd as he begins his way down the ramp. The fans are begging for high fives and he obliges, touching the free hands with all the fans at ringside as he comes to end of the ramp. He takes a running start, sliding into the ring before climbing the turnbuckles, beating his chest and looking out into the sea of adoring fans.
Tony Chimel: From Dudleyville, weighing in at 145 pounds, SPIKE DUDLEY
Spike steps down from the turnbuckle and comes back to the center of the ring, grabbing his wrists and rolling them in his hands as he looks set.
A lone synthetetic violin whispers through the air like a pterodactyl screech. Soon, a breakbeat ripples beneath. Strobe lights illuminate the entrance way. When the riff kicks in, it heralds the arrival of the Diabetic Dragon. Kyle O'Reilly storms out on to the ramp, fists and jaw clenched, looking like the quiet kid on a bad day while his step-sister Bayley follows close behind. He does some shadow boxing at the head of the ramp while Tony announces his stats.
Chimel: Being accompanied to the ring by Bayley, from Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada... weighing in at 200 pounds... the Hollywood Champion, Kyle O'Reilly!
Our beloved Canuck's neck is has that Tinsel Town strap slung over his shoulder. His pace is in lock-step with the groove en route to the squared circle. The fans in the arena born on the good side of 9/11 know the words and can't help but sing along when the chorus drops. Feeding off that energy, Kyle is spiritually compelled to shred his title belt like a guitar as he steps through the ropes to compete. He rocks the heck out with the UWF Universe before getting ready to friggin fight. Bayley, meanwhile, lurks and lingers on the fringe of the squared circle, ready to fight dirty if it comes to that.
VS 
DING DING DING
The two fan favorites meet at the center of the ring and of course Spike being the good guy that he is, he extends his hand to shake. Bayley shakes her head and tells Kyle not to do it but as the first of the O'Reilly clan in UWF, Kyle has the authority to do what he pleases and what he wants to do is shake this man's hand. The crowd pops and both men smile... that is until Kyle jumps and flips Spike over into a Vanilla Bar! It seems Spike has prepared for this as he clasps both hands together and rolls Kyle onto his back!
1 . . .
2 . . .
Kyle breaks the hold and rushes back to his feet. Spike throws a few punches but Kyle bobs and weaves through them and knees Spike in the gut. The Dudley Boy hunches over coughing up a lung. Kyle gives him the Axe Kick to the back of the head and goes for Rolling Elbow but Spike ducks and catches the arm to bring Kyle over into a Backslide! Kyle rolls back up before he can pinned but Spike hits a Front Dropkick to knock him into the corner. Dudley then runs into him with a Battering Ram into the corner! Kyle comes out holding his stomach and Spike lifts him up into a Flapjack! He makes the pin!
1 . . .
2 . . .
Kyle kicks out! Spike drags Kyle closer to the ropes and goes out onto the apron and climbs to the top rope. He jumps off with the Dudley Stomp but Kyle rolls out of the way just in time. Spike turns around but gets caught with a Harpoon Torpedo knee! He grabs Spike's legs and flips him over onto his belly into the Aspartamer! Bayley yells "YES!" in excitement but out from the back comes none other than Will Ospreay. The young upstart is calmly walking down the ramp right in front of Kyle who lets go of the hold and walks over to the ropes to talk some trash to him.
Corey Graves: This is a big match for Kyle O'Reilly and look at him, he can't even keep his eyes on his opponent.
Tom Phillips: You'd do the same if the guy who's constantly been taunting you showed up during one of your matches.
Corey Graves: Nah I've always kept a cool head.
Mauro Ranallo: *ahem* The Cartel *cough cough*
Corey Graves: Fuck The Cartel!
Will isn't doing anything, just watching from halfway down the ramp. Bayley comes over to make sure he doesn't even think about getting any closer. Kyle turns his attention back to Spike but eats a Headbutt to the gut! Kyle turns away and falls to a knee. Spike comes up behind him and hooks both arms to give him a Bubba Bomb! Kyle rolls away holding his ass but Bayley walks up to Ospreay on the outside, getting in his face. The ref has his attention on them and exits the ring before things can escalate. Bayley is yelling and making a scene while Ospreay keeps his cool. Spike is looking at the scene as well but suddenly Samoa Joe comes out from the crowd and blasts Spike in the back of the head with a Clothesline! Spike falls to all fours but Joe lifts him onto his shoulders to deliver a Samoan Drop! He exits the ring and hides away while the ref is actually ejecting Bayley.
Corey Graves: In a strange turn of events, it looks like Bayley may have finally helped Kyle out here tonight. He should send her a Joe a big thank you text.
Tom Phillips: I don't think O'Reilly would have wanted someone else to get involved in this main event tonight./
Corey Graves: A win's a win and he'd be foolish to not accept it.
Bayley heads to the back and Ospreay says he's just watching from there. He hasn't done anything so the ref doesn't do anything to him. Kyle sees Spike down and assumes it was because of something he did so he crawls over and makes the pin.
1 . . .
2 . . .
Spike kicks out! Kyle brings him back to a vertical base and gives him a flurry of forearms, a Calf Kick, a Thai Clinch Knee Lift and a Leg Sweep to finish off the combo. He then mounts Spike and throws down some devastating Palm Strikes. Ospreay now walks up to get a better look and again manages to get Kyle's attention. He walks over to the ropes and actually opens them up, daring him to come on in. Ospreay shakes his head and says he's just there to watch. Kyle goes back over to Spike but keeps one eye on that English bastard. Spike fights back with some shots to the gut and gives Kyle a Hurrincanrana! O'Reilly rolls through back up to his feet but he's a bit dizzy. He runs at Spike but he side steps him and Kyle knocks heads with the ref who goes down!
Spike looks surprised but Joe comes back into the ring behind him. He grabs him from behind and throws him into the corner and lifts him up. He gets him in position and hits the Muscle Buster! He exits the ring and smiles at his handiwork. He goes to leave and Ospreay looks over to him with a confused expression on his face. He slides into the ring and picks up Kyle by both arms and hits Stormbreaker! He exits the ring and smirks at Joe who stopped to watch him. Ospreay walks up the ramp but Joe slides back into the ring and picks up Spike. He gets him over his shoulder and nails the Island Driver! He exits the ring and Ospreay saw what happened on the tron. He turns back and slides into the ring.
Corey Graves: Looks like we got ourselves a bit of a one upsmanship here fellas.
Tom Phillips: Oh come on, we had a good contest before these two decided to have a pissing contest.
Ospreay picks up Kyle and rolls him forward with a Snapmare before delivering a Hidden Blade to the back of the head! The ref is now coming to as Ospreay gets out of the ring. Joe walks up to him the two men get in each other's faces, neither one backing down as they both try and decide the outcome of this match. It's looking like they might come to blows when Bayley comes back out from the back but she's brought along the Dudley Boyz with her! Both Ospreay and Joe look over to them and decide to to leave. They're not exactly in a rush but the hop the barricade through separate sides of the ring while Bayley and the Dudleyz taunt them.
Tom Phillips: And it looks like we're back at square one.
Mauro Ranallo: Well I wouldn't say that. Both men just took heavy damage so it seems like it might be who can take the most punishment and when you take that into account, I think Spike may have it here.
Spike is getting to his feet first while Kyle still looks out from the Hidden Blade. The Dudleyz cheer for him at ringside and Spike looks surprised to see them. Bayley immediately turns on the boys and tells them to shut up while she cheers for Kyle. O'Reilly now starts to rise but Spike isn't going to let him recover. He comes up behind him and gets him in a Side Headlock. He points to the ropes and goes to run up them for the Dudley Dog but Kyle pushes him over the ropes and he falls to the floor! Kyle leans over the middle rope to rest and The Dudleyz go to check on Spike but Bayley gets in their way. The ref remembers that he sent Bayley to the back and goes ahead and throws her out again along with the Dudleyz! They're all arguing and the ref jumps back out again to deal with them as Kyle rolls to the outside. He picks up Spike and throws him back into the ring. Ospreay however comes back out from the crowd and slides into the ring once more. Kyle gets ready to fight him but Joe comes sliding in as well. Spike gets to his feet and all four men are facing each other. Before any fists can fly, the ref sees what's going down and runs back into the ring and tells the two intruders to get lost.
Mauro Ranallo: Finally the ref is getting control of this match again.
Corey Graves: He's robbing the fans of seeing those two clowns get bulldozed again. We need some lenient refs out here. Where's Rick Knox?
Ospreay and Joe reluctantly leave the ring once more. Spike goes up to the ropes and tells off Joe in that nice Spike way that's not really too rude. Kyle however sees an opportunity and goes to roll up Spike!
1 . . .
2 . . .
3 . . .
But Spike gets the shoulder up just in time! They pop up at the same time and Kyle goes for a Roundhouse but Spike ducks it and jumps onto his shoulders from behind. He goes for a Reverse Hurrincanrana but Kyle stays planted and Spike is upside down. O'Reilly shakes his head and pulls Spike back up so he's seated on his shoulders. Spike however rolls forward into a Victory Roll!
1 . . .
2 . . .
3 . . .
Tony Chimel: Here is your winner, Spike Dudley!
Kyle can't believe it and even Spike looks shocked. The ref raises his hand but Spike quickly puts it down and offers it to Kyle. O'Reilly doesn't look pleased, his winning streak coming to an end once again but he reluctantly shakes Spikes hand to thunderous applause. Kyle leaves to Spike to celebrate on his own as the show moves on.
The feed switches to the backstage area where EC3 is standing by.
EC3: As all of you know, Backlash is looming and I've decided to go ahead and make some matches official to help put a stop to all the chaos going around lately. Leyton Buzzard has been desperately trying to get his hands on Batista since he screwed him out of the UWF Championship opportunity and I actually agree that something like that deserves some revenge so the two will settle their differences at Backlash.
A mixed reaction from the crowd as neither man has too many fans of theirs.
EC3: That's not the only personal grudge though, far from it actually. I want to congratulate Orange Cassidy on winning the Prime Time Medal earlier tonight. LA Knight however wants another shot after he feels Orange cost him the medal last week so I've gone ahead and approved that match for the Medal at Backlash as well.
A nice pop as the fans want to see Cassidy actually knock the taste out of Knight's mouth this go round.
EC3: Speaking of the Prime Time Medalist or rather, former medalist. Sami Zayn got served the papers and I signed them myself. He will be forced to compete against Edge at Backlash and should he refuse to comply for any reason, he will be fired for a breach of contract.
A huge pop in the hopes that a decent man loses his jobs. Animals.
EC3: Finn Balor let me know that he'd like to give Cody Rhodes another shot against him but after that display last week, I'm not going to let him get what he wants. Instead, He'll have to put that title on the line against the man The Mafia beat down this week in JBL. But that's Backlash. Next week JBL will get his hands on Randy Orton for that RKO he blindsided him with.
Speaking of blindsiding, Will Ospreay has come to me about Kyle O'Reilly getting involved in his business. If you ask me, it looked like he taunted him first but it's obvious these two need to settle their differences, especially after what just happened. That's exactly what Backlash is for.
That's not it though as Eddie has come to me demanding a #1 contender's TLC match against Drew McIntyre for ruining his engagement party last week. I saw Eddie get some revenge earlier tonight but I don't see honor in trying to climb a ladder for a TV title shot. That doesn't scream fighting for your bride to be to me so I'm going to deny it. Maybe if you prove to me Eddie that you can defeat Drew, we can talk then but for right now, you'll face him in a singles match at Backlash.
That's not the only Eddie giving me headaches though. Kingston wants a rematch for the IC title and while I usually don't dole them out, he was never pinned for the title. So MJF will defend the Intercontinental Championship against Eddie Kingston at Backlash.
And finally we come to the winner of the match we just saw. He and Joe and have been talking about each other all month and Joe decided to take things to the next level tonight. I don't think that's enough. The two former World Champions will go toe to toe at Backlash.
Now there's still one more match I have yet to officially announce but that's for a reason. How about we take things back down to the ring for the final-
”The day is fast approaching.
You’re on borrowed time.”
As the camera cuts back to the main focus of the arena, it is shown that the ring has been set up not for a match, but for what looks to be a trademark contract signing. A table has been staged in the center of the ring, covered with a black cloth to make it appear more presentable, with two chairs on either side. For the time being, though, we cut over to our announce team.
Mauro Ranallo: ”Well, ladies and gentlemen, we went over earlier in the show that there would in fact be a set of negotiations between UWF World Champion Trevor Lee and his challenger for Backlash, Shark Boy. The ring has been set up, and there is security on standby for when this thing breaks down.”
Corey Graves: ”When? Mauro, have some faith in our UWF World Champion, the man is a proper politician. He may be known now as the God of professional wrestling, but before all of that, he was the Mayor of Harlan, and I am sure that if anybody in that ring is going to throw the first punch, it’d be the challenger, no doubt about it.”
Tom Phillips: ”Corey, have you been watching the same Trevor Lee that the rest of the world has seen? The man is a psychopath, through and through. We have seen him sign a contract in the blood of his opponent in the past, and if he has his way here tonight, I’d highly doubt it to be any different…here’s hoping that Shark Boy can pull through and turn the tables on him…”
Returning to the ring, it would give a nice zoom-in on the actual set shown, before slowly panning to the entrance ramp…
But what is heard is not the electronic beat of the UWF Champion’s theme song. Instead…
"WWWWEEEEEEEEEELLLLLLLLLLLLLLL"
That distinct yell, complete with the stinging notes of “Gone Guru” by Lifeseeker begin to play, as out steps the “prophet” of Harlan, Lance Cade, their arms outstretched in utter jubilance.
Mauro Ranallo: ”Well, it seems perhaps Mr. Trevor Lee might not be making his way out here after all?”
Corey Graves: ”A smart tactic from the UWF World Champion. We all saw him earlier in the night, that man is planning for all-out war, so why would he risk himself by leaving the war room when Lance Cade clearly is dedicated to his God enough to put himself in the line of fire?”
Whether the fans like it or not, Lance continues heading down the ramp - notably in a formal attire for the occasion, going as far as to wear a full-on suit and tie for the ongoing event. It doesn’t make him any less mobile, however, as he continues bouncing around from side to side of the ramp, keeping himself just barely composed enough to not straight up attack the very fans booing him.
Once he is at the ringside area, Cade would, in a contrast to their usual self, take a patient approach to entering the ring, actually opting to take the stairs and enter the ring in a quite civil manner, before walking to the side of the table opposite of the entrance ramp and sit down in the provided chair. As his song fades from the speakers, Lance Cade takes hold of the provided microphone on the table for him, smiling all the while.
Lance Cade: ”Well well well well well well well well well well wellwellwellwellWELL! Ain’t who ya’ folks expected to see, am I? Nope! I know y’all didn’t think that I’d be the one comin’ out ‘ere to represent mista’ Trevor Lee on his behalf for that upcomin’ title bout wit’ one Shark Boy, but listen, listen listen LISTEN! Tonight, I got to speak directly to mista’ Trevor Lee, first time in ages that I got that sweet, valuable one-on-one time wit’ ‘em, an’ ya’ know what he told me? He told me ‘Lance…I value men like ya’self. Men who know what’s worth fightin’ for, who know where they lie in the battle between right an’ wrong.”
Lance is absolutely beaming as he repeats the same drivel that Trevor Lee spoonfed him to the fans, getting nothing but jeers in the process.
Lance Cade: ”So mista’ Trevor Lee, my lord, my savior, my God~...he done tol’ me ‘Lance, I can’t go out there tonight. I can’t go out there an’ get ambushed by those heathens, by those non-believers, those sinners. I can’t go out there an’ risk everythin’ that I’ve worked for, all ‘cause they couldn’t wait for Backlash, so I need you, Lance.”
Lance, for being the devotee he is, damn near tears up upon saying this.
Lance Cade: ”He needed ME to be the one to come on out ‘ere, an’ take part in some uh…how did he put it? Ah, that’s right, take part in some good ol’ ne-go-ti-a-tions. So, mista’ Shark, ‘ere I am! Right ‘ere! No Andy, no Trevor, jus’ me! No ambush, no nothin’, so jus’ come on down ‘ere, an’ we can settle this ‘ere match o’ yours nice an’ proper~!”
Sitting straight in their chair, Lance is damn near thrashing in his seat, waiting for that glass to shatter…
However the glass does not indeed shatter, instead the lights suddenly dim and the crowd are serenaded by the Queen of Pop.
LIFE IS A MYSTERY
EVERYONE MUST STAND ALONE
I HEAR YOU CALL MY NAME
AND IT FEELS LIKE...
HOME.
As soon as the initial beats kick in of 'Like A Prayer' by Madonna the crowd are clapping their hands and stomping their feet while Lance Cade looks on in utter dismay. Grado comes bouncing out from behind the curtain, he looks around at the crowd - there's no shucking and jiving tonight, this man is facing a fear. Grado nods his head and does the big pantomime point to the ring before he marches down to ringside. Grado walks up the ring steps and through the ropes into the ring. Grado grabs himself a microphone and sits down across the table from Cade, a glint of fear in his eyes undoubtedly but also too a steely defiance as he faces the man who tortured him for weeks.
Grado: Lance Cade you take that smug look aff yer face because I'm here to tell you this... I am not afraid of you.
Even with a slight waver in his voice Grado looks eyes locked with the man who caused him such harm only last month.
See Trevor Lee might be sitting back there and he might be rubbin' his hands together thinking he's got Shark Boy scared to come out but let me tell ye this, I volunteered. I volunteered to come out here because I had to do one thing and that was face my fears and look across the ring from the big sack o' shite that tried to ruin my life. I knew Trevor Lee wouldn't be out here, I knew he'd be in the back, I knew he'd be avoiding coming into this ring just in case Shark Boy decided to come out here and kick his arse. And just like the weeks leading up to Wrestlemania - he's sent his minions to do his bidding instead. I can read that boy like a book. And I also know that without his minions, without his 'followers' - his whole world is waitin' to fall like a deck of cards.
The crowd cheer and chant 'Grado!, Grado!' as the Scotsman looks around at his many admirers in the crowd.
See Shark Boy said it last week - all the niceties, all the friendly competition?, it's right out the window now for all you, Butcher and Lee have done. The kidnapping, the blindsiding and backstabbing and right now we are on the precipice of an all out war. Which brings us to tonight I guess - me representing The C.U.N.T., the good guys, the brothers in arms and you representing a bunch of loonballs from some backwater hillbilly town in the arse-end of nowhere. I seen Trevor Lee sittin' back there ready to burst, I don't know how much longer he can keep a hold of himself and I know Shark Boy's just chompin' at the bit... so if yer ready Lance, I suppose we better get down to the nitty gritty, let's get down to business.
With Grado sat across from him at the table, Lance Cade's dismay turns into delight as, finally, the contract for the match is shown…but notably blank, outside of the two signatures required, is the actual description of the match.
Lance Cade: "Alright! Alright alright alright alright ALRIGHT~! We get to the fun part~! Determinin' the very fates o' not just your oh so precious leader in mista' Shark, but also for my mayor, my idol, my God~, mista' Trevor Lee~."
Taking hold of the contract first, Lance looks things over, ensuring that everything is already correct on there, but also seemingly…toying with Grado. He is dragging things out, that much is obvious, and each glance sent Grado's way only seems to confirm his suspicions - Grado's scared of him, even still…and that makes Lance Cade nothing short of jubilant.
Lance Cade: "SO!"
Cutting through the silence, Lance leans closer to look Grado in the eyes.
Lance Cade: "Mista' Grado, let us not kid ourselves any longer, we've already seen what happens when Shark Boy an' mista' Trevor Lee go one-on-one, we saw it at Wrestlemania, an' with how much I know 'bout mista' Trevor Lee…he don't like no stagnation. That man despises those who never change…probably a big reason why he hates mista' Shark so much, in fact. SO, jus' so that way I ain't disappointin' him, why don't we make thins' a bit more interestin'? Think a simple rule change ought to cover it, yeah? I'm thinkin'...no disqualifications? WAIT, NO, it could be a hardcore ma-NO, WAIT, I GOT IT!"
With a manic grin on his face, Lance scribbles something down into the match description box, and slides it over to Grado.
Lance Cade: "What 'bout…no holds barred? I like the soun' o' that more~."
Grado looks over the contract and mulls it over for a second before raising his microphone.
Grado: Ye know what?, I think No Holds Barred is something we can both actually agree on Lance. There's nothing Shark Boy loves more than a good auld fashioned fight and with no disqualifications, no count outs?, I think that's right down Sharky's alley. But here's the thing Lance, you and I both know that this right here isn't enough. See there's four men involved in this feud that aren't involved in this match. There's me and Paul and there's you and Butcher. And I know what you Harlan folk are like trying to pull the wool right o'er both our eyes but I'm no falling for it and neither is Sharky. At Backlash it needs to be one on one, No Holds Barred?, sure. But let's just raise the stakes... literally.
Lance looks at Grado almost inquisitively as Grado pauses.
See with no rules that leaves the match open to a whole host o' shenanigans. It means you and yer big hairy pal running down to do a number on Sharky and it means me and Paul swinging in for the save and don't you sit there and deny it. It shouldn'y happen with all that's on the line but let's face it... it's bound to happen... unless... there was a way to take both the Residents of Harlan and The C.U.N.T. out of the picture... high out of the picture... 20 feet high above the picture in a pair of SHARK CAGES?! - how does that sound big man?, one side of the ring above the ring, me and Paul - the other side, you and Butcher and we let our respective leaders finish this once and for all?
Once the contract is back over by Lance, he would rapidly nod his head, seeming all too on-board with this.
Lance Cade: "Eeeeeeeeeee, shark cages~! I've never got to be in one o' them fancy thins', I simply cannot WAIT~! Bein' so high in the air, watchin' down from up above, seein' mista' Trevor Lee an' Shark Boy battlin' one-on-one?! Oh I am goin' to love it!"
Despite his fanboying, though, Lance Cade doesn't put pen-to-paper. Instead, they give a glance at Grado, a smirk forming on their face.
Lance Cade: "But…I think there is…one more thin' that mista' Trevor Lee would want outta' this 'ere matchup~."
Leaning over the table, Lance gets eye-to-eye with Grado…and the smirk fades to a serious glare as the microphone is raised once more.
Lance Cade: "Shark Boy's puttin' his mask on the line for this match, or it ain't happenin'."
With the contract pushed back towards Grado, Cade leans back, awaiting the answer…
Grado looks at Lance Cade who continues to stare at his counterpart; awaiting an answer.
Grado: Do you know what happened to the last guy to take Shark Boy's mask off?; because I remember it, I was there. I held that towel in my hand ready to throw it in and then something changed and Sharky's told me time and time again he doesn't know what came over him on that day - maybe Edge pushed him too far. But maybe that's what Trevor Lee wants. He's lost his mind and you can't see it Lance, Butcher can't see it, the town of Harlan can't see it but everybody here and watching all around the world on the UWF Network see it. He's lost his damn mind, he thinks he's a god. But I tell ye this, he's a determined bastard and he wants Shark Boy's mask and god help him if that mask does come off. Because you don't know what's under it - I don't know what's under it and even Sharky doesn't know what's under it.
There's a hush as Grado pauses before continuing.
But that's all hypothetical Lance because I believe deep down in my heart of hearts that on the night, with no distractions in a good auld fashioned fight - my man comes out on top. I'd go further to say there's not a chance in hell that Trevor Lee walks out of Backlash with that mask in his hand and that title belt still around his waist. That's how much I believe in my brother... which is why - even though Shark Boy might bollock me for it when I get back there... I accept the challenge on behalf of The C.U.N.T. No Holds Barred; Shark Cages; Title Vs Mask - it's on brother!
Grado grabs the contract and signs it. As soon as pen is put to paper, Cade lets out another squeal, before snatching it away and giving a beaming grin whilst signing it himself. With the contract settled, though, Lance's gaze lingers, staring into Grado's eyes…there is an uncomfortable silence while Lance keeps everything focused solely on the man across from him…but that smile slowly settles into a mere smirk once Lance stands up.
Lance Cade: "Well…see ya' in the cages, Grado~...I look forward to hearin' ya' up there, helplessly cryin' for help when ya' know it ain't goin' to come…it'll be like back in Harlan~."
And on that note, Lance stands up, gives a "friendly" wave to Grado, and heads off, leaving Grado alone in the ring with nothing more than a still-stable table, a signed contract, and his own doubts…
END OF SHOW
Credits
Edge vs McIntyre - Crann
Cassidy vs Zayn - Fauche
JBL vs Balor, Kingston vs Batista, O'Reilly vs Spike - Danny
