Post by Danny on Aug 25, 2018 0:35:51 GMT -6
Pyro goes off all throughout the arena and the camera zooms around, showing numerous fans all showing their support for the return of NXT, We then go ringside where Corey Graves and Tom Phillips are standing by.
Tom Phillips: Hello ladies and gentlemen and welcome to NXT! I'm Tom Phillips and with me is my broadcast partner, former International Champion, Corey Graves.
Corey Graves: We're hot off the heels of Vengeance and we've finally got a rightful and deserving champion! All hail Dolph Ziggler!
Tom Phillips: Yes you heard that right folks, Dolph Ziggler defeated Spike Dudley and is the new International Champion.
Corey Graves: OUR International Champion, get it right Phillips! He'll have himself a grand celebration tonight that I can't wait for! Invite only!
Tom Phillips: Invite only? I didn't get an invitation?
Corey Graves: Good, maybe we can have Brain back.
Tom Phillips: Well regardless, we have more in ring action this week as Pete Dunne takes on Jimmy Uso to see who becomes the number one contender to the Hardcore Championship. Plus the new once again Unified World Tag Team Champions the Young Bucks take on Headcheese.
Corey Graves: NXT is running high and in our main event we have Kurt Angle taking on Bray Wyatt! That should be a hell of a match and-
For the first time in a long time, "Godzilla" roars through the PA. Though unexpected, the song is instantly recognizable to the capacity crowd, and whether its a pop for the nostalgia or because of what he did to Ethan Carter, the fans are on their feet and cheering as Kevin Steen walks out on to the stage.
"Mr. Wrestling" pauses at the head of the ramp and looks out around the fans almost surprised by what he's hearing. He doesn't linger there very long before making his way down to the squared circle. After climbing through the ropes, Kevin walks across to the other side and is handed a microphone. The music cuts off, the fans settle down, and he lifts the mic to speak.
Steen: Three years and three months later... we're here. I think it's done now. The only thing standing in the way of NXT becoming the best wrestling show on the planet was Ethan Carter, and, well...
He stops for a moment as "KILL STEEN KILL" chants erupt around the building, commemorating the successful war he just waged against EC3.
Kevin's still sporting some nasty bruises and cuts from the encounter, but there's no doubt he's in higher spirits than he has been in a long time as he goes on.
All I've ever wanted was to be the best wrestler in the best company in the world. Now that NXT is free to be that, I can get back to business. Three-hundred-and-four days, nine successful defenses, I beat the Aztec Warfare winner, the G1 winner and I was the first guy to shut down a Money in the Bank cash-in...
But I think I can do better. And I want my title back.
Many in the crowd cheer, but there are some who are silent and others who boo, still not sold on Kevin as some kind of hero again.
I'm not gonna make excuses for losing it to Spike Dudley, or for not being able to get it back at Wrestlemania. It is what it is. In my opinion, the biggest obstacle in my way just got taken care of, so now I'm free to do what I do best again.
Dolph Ziggler is a human trash-fire, but he's got that gold now. Spike deserves a rematch. One of 'em hasn't beat me one-on-one and I don't think he can. The other one is about the only person I never beat one-on-one, and I wanna prove that I can. Let them settle up and let me at the winner, cause either way, I've got a bone to pick.
I'm not the kind of guy that likes to wait in line for anything. I pick my spots, I set my goals, and when I see something I want, I go for it. Been that way since I got here. So fellas... get ready. I'm coming for that belt.
His message delivered, Kevin lowers his microphone and turns to leave the ring...
...but stops as the iconic theme of Y2J hits the speakers. The crowd pops when Jericho appears from the back, posing for the fans as he heads down the ramp.
Jericho stands up to Steen, before backing away to grab a mic from the producers. After a bit of pacing around the ring, and he begins his statements.
Chris Jericho: Will you please SHUT THE HELL UP!!!!!
I never thought I'd have to use the words "Canadian" and "stupid idiot" in the same sentence, but there's a first time for everything. I honestly expected better from you, being from the Great White North, but I guess you can do you. You can tell yourself that you deserve a shot at Dolph Ziggler's title, but let me tell you where your logic is, to put it lightly, a bit off.
Here's the story. You're the longest reigning International Champion in the history of UWF. You've successfully defended the title, what, nine times? You're on a roll. You're practically unstoppable. Then, Spike Dudley beat you at the Royal Rumble. That's right. Spike Dudley. THAT Spike Dudley. Embarrassing, right? Just wait. It gets worse. Instead of taking the 5 seconds to beat Spike at NXT Rebellion, you can't put him away and Dolph Ziggler gets an opportunity to interfere. THAT match should've been over by the time Ziggler woke up in the morning. Pathetic.
So now you have one more chance at WrestleMania to get your title back, and you lose. Not only that, but one of your opponents SHOULD'VE pinned you, and the other actually did. You get so mad, you murder your boss. That'll definitely get you Employee of the Month.
Think about this. In your last 4 pay-per-view matches, you've failed to beat Spike Fucking Dudley 3 times, and then you obliderate a guy who hasn't wrestled in God knows how long. Your best accomplishment is beating a guy that spends all day behind a desk tippy-tapping on his computer.
So where in that have you earned a title shot? If you can see anything good in that shit streak, you'd better get your eyesight checked. I, on the other hand, have built up quite the resume. I started by beating Steve Blackman and the Intercontinental Champion Bray Wyatt, topping Headcheese, falling to Dolph Ziggler only because of his cheating ways, and finally, I beat Mr. Money In The Bank Kurt Angle. I'd say that's pretty impressive, don't you?
The point is, I'm better than you. I'm the Best In The World At What I Do. I'm the Greatest of All Time. I'm the King of the World. I'm the Lionheart. I'm Y2J. I'm Chris Jericho, the God damn legend of this industry, and I AM BETTER THAN YOU.
The crowd is on their feet, booing the return of one Dixie Carter. She's all smiles as she walks down the ramp and enters the ring. She asks for a mic and is handed one before beginning to speak.
Dixie Carter: Well hello there boys! I couldn't help but overhear you two talking about title shots and whatnot so I decided to come out and make myself known before anyone else thinks that just because my nephew it out it means they can demand things. I guess I should remind everyone that NXT is actually my show. I own everything here while Ethan was simply my appointed GM. Now I'll be honest darlin', I haven't been keeping up with the product. I just look at my bank account and I can see that this place makes me a hell of a lot of money so I let Ethan just keep doing whatever he wants to do.
Thunderous boos come from the crowd for Ethan's abuse of power that had been running wild because of her.
Dixie Carter: So I may be out of the loop but you two make some purtty compellin' arguments so how about at the next pay per view, you two face off to see who becomes the new number one contender! How bout that!
The crowd applauds this time, wanting to see the two men face off until...
It's back to boos as Maxine makes her way out onto the stage with a mic already in hand.
Maxine: Sorry Dixie but I've been here every day since Ethan took over so I know a thing or two about how things are run here. First of all, I don't think it's a great idea to reward a guy who just assaulted our boss with a number one contenders match. Secondly, Jericho is still new here and the last time he rose up the ranks quickly he disappeared off the face of the earth so you'll excuse me if I don't trust him. They both do have points though so as far as the match between them, it stands. The next pay per view is called No Mercy by the way Dixie.
Dixie Carter: Well thank you darlin'! But don't you think these two fellas deserve something other than just a random match?
Maxine: Yes I was getting to that. While Ethan may be gone for the time being, his legacy still stands. Next month we'll see the top 8 wrestlers this brand has to offer compete in the 2nd annual G1 Climax where the winner will face the International Champion at Summerslam. While I may not trust Chris Jericho and I don't like Kevin, you two are top competitors and whoever wins will get to choose who will be in their bracket to give them an edge in the G1. Good luck to the both of you.
Maxine leaves just as fast as she arrived, Steen and Jericho looking at one another while Dixie is clapping along, trying to get everyone hype until the live feed goes elsewhere.
The feed carries the viewers into a prerecorded segment where a car is shown parking up onto the curb outside. All four doors are swung open at the same time. It becomes apparent that the car is carrying the Dudley Clan as Spike Dudley is the first one out the car with Stacy climbing out carrying a few bags with Bully and Devon in the back seat behind them. They open the boot, getting what seems to be their wrestling bags out the boot as none of them look too happy. Everything is taken out the boot of the car as they begin their walk towards the arena through the car park.
They reach the arena door as Jo-JO is standing there with a mic, waiting for their arrival.
Jo-Jo: Welcome to the arena Dudleyz, I was just wondering if I could grab your thoughts about Vengeance?
Jo-Jo thrusts the mic towards the group. Devon goes to speak but thinks better of it. Bully just stares there shaking his head as Stacy seems like she is the one who is going to break this silence.
Stacy: Well J...........
Stacy suddenly gets cut off as Spike puts his hand over the microphone. Stacy looks at Spike, a little pissed off but not nearly as much as the Little Runt does as he shakes his finger as well as his head at her. He shoos The rest of the clan off, motioning them to go inside as he takes his hand away from the mic. The rest of the family listen as they disappear into the arena, leaving just Spike & Jo Jo there.
Spike: I bet you are expecting a long, passionate speech from me about my match at Vengeance, aren't you? That's what I've done in the past, built it up, made it interesting and always wore my heart on my sleeve............ NOT TONIGHT.............
Spike bursts into life, yelling this last part pretty much straight into Jo Jo's face. It kind of frightens her as Spike is spitting venom.
Spike: I'm not upset I lost my title to Dolph Ziggler at Vengeance, I'm glad my title run happened in the first place but mark my words......... It.............Will...........Happen.........AGAIN!!!!
Spike taking long pauses between each word in the last sentence, building up the anticipation as he stares at Jo Jo. She doesn't know what to do as Spike just pushes the mic away from him and follows the rest of his family into the arena as the camera fades to black with the last image being of Jo Jo looking confused.
The scene cuts away to a black and white footage of Baron Corbin, recorded earlier in the day. Baron stands in the ring, while the arena around him remains empty before the start of the show.
Baron Corbin
At Vengeance, I walked through Hell. I put everything on the line. My championship, my body... my life. I put it all on the line for the right to be called King. I put it all on the line to finally rid myself of that annoying pest, the fallen King, Owen Hart. He thought that when we walked into Hell he would have the advantage. He didn't believe that I am the true embodiment of hardcore and violence. But at the end of the night, when I clawed out of the belly of the beast, still holding my crown, and he was left, devoured by flames, he finally saw. He finally saw that I am the one true, undisputed King of NXT. And that this crown of thrones will remain on my head, and I dare, I DARE, anyone to stand up and try to take it. I will banish them just like I did Owen Hart.
Corbin walks around the ring and looks out into the empty arena.
Baron Corbin
This right here... this is my Kingdom. I have conquered it. I took the crown from Owen Hart. All of this belongs to me. But what is a King to do when he's already conquered his kingdom? He goes out for another. The Hardcore division belongs to me, and no one will take that from me. But it's time to set my eyes on another crown. Another throne. So this is your official warning. This is my Declaration of War. All will bow to me, and to those that oppose, they will be put down. Today marks the beginning of the Crusade of Corbin. NXT will fall. And it will belong... to ME.
With one soul shooting look into the camera from Corbin, the feed cuts.
Tony Chimel: Ladies and gentlemen, the following contest is scheduled for one fall! Introducing first, from Birmingham, U.K. at a weight of 205 pounds... the Bruiserweight, Pete DUNNE!
As Dunne emerges from the back the fans are already booing, anticipating his arrival. The scrappy Brit heads to the top of the ramp and then taps his own jaw with a fist while smirking, his dark mouthguard visible in place of what would normally be bared teeth. Dunne then heads down the ramp, shaking out his wrists as the fans continue to boo. He jogs up the ring steps, enters the ring and paces back and forth while awaiting his foe.
Tony Chimel: And the opponent, from San Francisco, California and weighing 251 pounds, Jimmy USO!
From the back now comes the fan-favourite Jimmy Uso and the crowd loses their minds as he jogs out onto the stage, then crosses his arms and nods while surveying the audience. Jimmy jogs down the ramp and slides into the ring under the bottom rope, getting to his feet and heading to his corner to perform some stretches while the official conducts his pre-match checks and then calls for the bell.
-VS- 
DING DING DING!
Dunne and Jimmy circle the ring as the starting bell goes off and Jimmy takes off at Dunne, leaping into the air and looking for a running shoulder block but Dunne simply steps aside. Jimmy hits the ropes and rebounds, but as he does so he gets hit square in the face with a forearm and stumbles back into the ropes. Dunne then grabs Jimmy in a side headlock and hip tosses him to the canvas before locking in a picture-perfect ground-and-pound headlock and driving clenched fists into Jimmy's exposed forehead. The official counts this and reaches four before Dunne breaks it off, getting to his feet and tapping the side of his jaw with his fist before shouting "COME ON!" to some heat from the crowd.
Corey Graves: You know, I've seen a lot of guys come and go in this ring just in my short time calling matches here with NXT Tom and Pete Dunne... well, he could be one of the most impressive young talents I've ever seen.
Tom Phillips: It wasn't too long ago that people were saying you were a dominant young talent and now here you are, Corey.
Corey Graves: Don't remind me. It hurts every night I'm not in that ring, but it's good to make space for new talent.
Dunne heads over and pulls Jimmy to his feet but as he does, Jimmy shoves Dunne away. The Bruiserweight smirks as he eyes Uso, then comes in and shoves him right back. Uso returns the favor, Dunne retorts, and this goes back and forth two or three more times before Dunne catches Uso's arm and pulls him into a shoulder thrust, then places a foot behind Uso's own feet and trips him to the canvas. Dunne keeps his grip on Uso's wrist and starts manipulating Jimmy's hand, working each of the finger joints and the wrist joint with unusual and painful-looking stretches. Jimmy cries out with each one, clearly in agony as Dunne contorts his hand and his fingers in awkward angles before placing his hand down on the canvas and just outright stomping on it. Dunne steps away as Jimmy clutches his hand and grimaces in pain. Uso sits up, but as he does Dunne charges back in and connects flush to the back of his head with a knee that sends Uso over onto his side.
Tom Phillips: Just a brutal sort of offence on display here from the man who calls himself the Bruiserweight, Corey.
Corey Graves: Pete Dunne knows a lot of ways to stretch and a lot of ways to smack you around, and if you don't scout him, he will punish you.
As if to illustrate Graves' point, Dunne stomps on Jimmy's stomach to sit him up and then moves in behind him, putting a knee into his upper spine and locking him up in a chinlock, then stretching him against the knee. The torquing and the angle cause Jimmy to claw at the air and cry out and the official watches real close while Dunne stretches the former Intercontinental challenger out. Jimmy finally gets a hand up into Pete Dunne's hair and he grabs a fistful of it, pulling Dunne forward enough that with his other, free hand Uso can catch him with a hook, and then another, and another until Dunne releases the hold and stumbles away, shaking his head as he has been momentarily dazed. This buys Uso enough time to find the ropes and start climbing them, but as soon as he's vertical, Dunne comes in with a belly-to-back clutch. Dunne tries to lift Jimmy, but Jimmy grabs the ropes and plants his feet and refuses to be lifted. Dunne tries again and again Jimmy resists before throwing an elbow back that catches Dunne flush on the side of the head, sending him reeling. As the Bruiserweight comes back around, however, he's snarling and takes a swing but Uso ducks under! Dunne turns around and as he does, he does so straight into a superkick! The fans pop in a big way as Dunne falls back into the ropes but doesn't go down. Uso tries to pry him away, but Dunne keeps a grip and so Uso grabs his ankles and pulls him away from the ropes and Dunne falls on his back! Uso goes for the cover.
1...
2...
...NO!
Immediately after the two-count Dunne kicks out.
Tom Phillips: A superkick is not enough to keep the Bruiserweight down.
Corey Graves: That's the other thing I like about this kid, Tom: He's tough as nails.
Jimmy is beside himself, unsure what to do. He gets to his feet and pulls Dunne to his, and it seems obvious the Bruiserweight is out on his own two feet so Jimmy sends him off the ropes. As Dunne rebounds, Jimmy doubles over for a back body drop, but Dunne actually stops his forward momentum and kicks Jimmy in the face! Jimmy shoots up and Dunne connects with a hard right, followed by a hard left, followed by two more right jabs that send Jimmy stumbling back into the corner. Dunne then heads up the turnbuckles, looming over Jimmy, and rains punches down on the Uso brother's head. In spite of his heel status the crowd loves to count and they count the blows as they land, hitting 13 before Dunne jumps off the turnbuckle and leads a dazed Uso out of it, back to the Bruiserweight. Dunne then grabs Uso in a German suplex clutch, spins them both around and tosses Jimmy overhead into the turnbuckle in the corner! Uso hits hard and slides down into a slumped, seated position, seemingly motionless as Dunne gets back to his feet and again works the crowd to greater heat. Dunne then heads over and grabs Jimmy's ankle, dragging him away from the corner (presumably to cover), but Jimmy finds some untapped reservoir of fight and kicks Dunne in the thigh! Dunne turns around and Jimmy kicks his kneecap, forcing Dunne to release his ankle. Jimmy then kips up and Dunne, looking like a deer caught in headlights, doesn't know how to react! Jimmy hits Dunne with a chop, then another, and another and another and another, each one driving Dunne further back into the corner. Jimmy then sends Dunne across to the other side of the ring and charges, hitting a corner splash! As Dunne stumbles out of the corner, Jimmy lines him up...
Corey Graves: Pete Dunne, as much as I like the kid, could be done for here.
Tom Phillips: Uce!
Dunne turns around and Uso unloads with a superkick! But the Bruiserweight has it sighted, catches the kick, and pulls Jimmy into a knee to the gut! Jimmy is doubled over and Dunne grabs him in a pumphandle clutch and hits the Bitter End! The fans erupt in heat as Dunne hooks the leg.
Corey Graves: Bitter End! Pete Dunne might take this!
1...
2...
...3!
DING DING DING!
Here is your winner, The Bruiserweight
PETE DUNNE!
Tom Phillips: Pete Dunne overcame Jimmy Uso, outsmarted and outscouted his opponent and now here he stands victorious on NXT.
Corey Graves: It's like I was saying, Tom, The Bruiserweight is one of the most promising young talents I have seen in a long time and he's just shown yet again why he is a force to be reckoned with here. This kid has a promising future.
Tom Phillips: After a performance like this one tonight, that's hard to dispute, Corey.
As Jimmy makes his exit, Dunne works the crowd from within the ring to some further heat and malcontent. This goes on for several long seconds before the feed heads elsewhere.
The titantron switches from the UWF graphic to a live feed from backstage. The Young Bucks are in their dressing room, preparing for their match, lacing boots, taping hands, and donning spectacularly obnoxious ring gear. The feed comes in mid-conversation.
Matt: Dude, come on... everyone knows that it's always night time in space.
Nick: That's not how night time works. And that doesn't make any sense.
Matt: No, just listen - when's the only time you can see the stars? Night time. And in space, you can always see the stars. So its always night.
Nick: But if you went up into space right now, you'd see the sun. So then it would be day time.
Matt: Yeah, but if you went far enough away, the sun would just be another little star, so it would be night time there. It can only ever be daytime if you're somewhere like here on earth, when there's a period of time when you can only see one star. "Day" is probably like Latin or something for "only one star visible".
Nick: What about on the moon? On one half it's always day, on the other it's always night.
Matt: Right - so time doesn't exist on the moon. There's no atmosphere.
Nick: What?
The astronomical debate will have to wait. The Proletariat Boar of Moldova suddenly walks into the locker room unannounced.
Boar: Greetings Comrades!
Matt: Oh uh... hey man.
Nick: How's it going Boar?
The Boar affectionately pats the Jackson's on the shoulders.
Boar: Everything is good! I have come to discuss our bright future together! Now that Ethan Carter, the filthy bourgeoisie scum has been overthrown and removed from power, our Union can proceed to the next level.
Matt awkwardly scratches the back of his neck while Nick takes a deep sigh...
Nick: Yeah, about that...
Matt: We were mostly doing the The Union thing to get rid of Ethan so NXT could be a better place. And, well, mission accomplished, right?
Nick: Yeah, we did it! We won! Remember when we asked you to help us out with all this stuff? Well I can honestly say now that we couldn't have done it without you, Boar. You've been awesome?
The Boar looks confused...
Boar: But our work isn't complete? Not all of the means have been seized yet! We have to unify the working class!
Matt: I gotta be real with you dude, I don't even know what you're talking about most of the time. But that's cool! I know you're a smart guy. But me and Nick and Kev, well, we got ours, ya know?
Boar: But Marx said -
Nick pats the Boar on the back while he leads him towards the door.
Nick: Yeah, I bet he did, and that's awesome, but we're kinda done with that now. But hey, dude, you've got our number, we've got yours... next time we're in the neighborhood, we'll hit you up.
Matt: Oh totally. We'll stay in touch. Take it easy, buddy.
The Bucks put up the "Too Sweet" sign and The Boar reluctantly does the same. With his head hung low, he leaves the locker room, and The Bucks go back to their boot-lacing.
Matt: Ugh, that was awkward. I hate good-byes.
Nick: I'm just looking forward to being able to eat bacon again.
Matt nods in agreement and the scene cuts out. NXT continues elsewhere.
The feed takes us back to the announcers' table where Corey Graves and Tom Phillips are standing by.
Tom Phillips: What an action-packed night it's been so far here on NXT but Corey, we're going to take a brief moment away from the proceedings to show what our new International Champion has been up to this week.
Corey Graves: Oh, come on, Phillips, is this really necessary?
Tom Phillips: It's important to show them the kind of man who is representing their favourite show, Corey.
Corey Graves: Fine, fine. You know what they say, there's no such thing as bad publicity... roll the tape.
The feed takes us to what looks like a smartphone-shot exchange with Dolph Ziggler in the frame, leaning across a table and speaking to a kid who looks like he can't be much older than six.
DOLPH ZIGGLER
All right, kid, so what's your name so I can make sure I'm writing a message just for you?
The kid looks unsure as he looks up at his dad, who shrugs and motions for him to tell Dolph his name. He looks at Ziggy and smiles.
KID
My name's Dalton, Mr. Ziggler. But I didn't want your signature... I wanted Spike Dudley's signature.
Dolph arcs an eyebrow as the kid says that, his hand already writing Dalton's name on what appears to be a UWF Vengeance poster featuring his and Spike's likenesses. Ziggy looks from the kid to his dad, then back to the kid, then back to the dad again and shakes his head.
Seriously? What kind of father are you? I'm the UWF International Champion and I just kicked the crap out of the inbred idiot loser your kid wants to sign his poster. This is ridiculous! I'm the champion! Spike Dudley's just some lucky loser who cheated his way up to the top and your kid wants his autograph? Is this the kind of thing you raise your children to believe in, sir? To cheer for the losers? To want the attention of the guys who are just second-best? Pfft.
Ziggler picks up Dalton's poster and rips it up right in front of him. Dalton starts wailing and hugs his father's leg. His dad looks angry at Ziggler and Dolph simply mean-mugs him right back.
What, are you going to show your kid another great role model and try to take me on, right here, old man? Look at him. What a pathetic little loser. He can't even take a little bit of adversity without throwing a tantrum. Man, Ellering told me this town was a dump but that didn't even explain the half of it.
The dad, clearly angry, throws a punch at Dolph. Dolph sidesteps the punch and the Dad is caught slightly off balance as his son scurries out of the way just in time while Ziggy's boot comes up and catches his dad with a superkick! His dad falls hard to the floor and the young boy screams and wails even louder as he falls down beside him, cradling his dad's head. Dolph looks down on both of them.
...pathetic. Security, call the cops and have them come down here and book this idiot for attempted assault. As for that little piece of trash, get him the hell out of here.
With that, Dolph stomps out of the frame. The child is still left crying even as security pry him away from his unconscious father and the segment comes to an end, returning us to the announcers' table where Phillips looks content and Graves looks annoyed.
Tom Phillips: Hardly becoming behaviour of a world champion.
Corey Graves: Oh come on, Tom! That kid insulted him! And the dad tried to attack him! They both got what was coming if you ask me.
Tom Phillips: Well nobody asked you. We'll be right back.
The broadcast moves into a short commercial break.
As there's a break in the action, things head backstage where Bray Wyatt is standing by.
Bray Wyatt: There's a lot of men around the UWF that, in my current position, would be intimidated. They'd be petrified, frozen in their tracks and overcome with dread for this impending match-up. Me, I feel quite the opposite. I'm relaxed heading into this endeavor, man, because when it comes to fear, I don't feel it, I manipulate it and cause it to be felt in others. That's why I call myself the face of it. But Kurt claims that he isn't afraid, he summarizes what and who I am as a man that's figured out how to do smoke and mirrors effectively, downplaying and underestimating me. But that's alright, because I don't need his validation, and soon enough he'll see for himself reason to be afraid and that he shouldn't have undermined, underestimated, or disrespected me. In this match, I make an example of a wrestling tactician, humbling him before the world and exposing that, as I warned him, time is catching up and is not on his side at all.
After that, I shift my focus to the number one contender to my Intercontinental Championship, Aleister Black. Aleister, you speak of yourself as a man that has power beyond everyone's comprehension. That's laughable to me, because I can comprehend what everyone on this roster is bringing to the table and as far as your power goes, well you said it yourself, you're just a mortal. That tells me all I need to know about how you're going to fare against me, someone who decidedly isn't mortal. But if hearing it isn't enough, pay attention to my match tonight, because this one is very similar to the one we're going to eventually have. While he lays claim to a different source, Kurt, much like you, believes himself to be in possession of a power that makes him unbeatable in a conflict with someone like me. But you're both wrong.
The difference is, you still have time to realize that. Kurt on the other hand, well, he's out of time.
With that, Bray chuckles to himself and smiles as he turns and walks offscreen as NXT heads elsewhere.
Chimel: The following contest is scheduled for one-fall! Introducing first... weighing in at 200 pounds... from London, England... Jervis Cottonbelly!
That ragtime dandy of a tune blasts through the PA! The fans may be unfamiliar with, and save for a few smarks up front, nobody recognizes the masked man that paces out on to the ramp. But the titantron says "Jervis Cottonbelly", and as he hands out gentlemanly handshakes and even wholesome hugs to the front-row fans on his way down to the ring, it doesn't take long for The World's Sweetest Man to win the people over.
Graves: I think I'm gonna be sick.
Phillips: What's the matter Corey? Is Jervis a little too sweet for your tastes?
Graves: Very funny, Phillips. This playground dress-up garbage doesn't belong in the UWF. I'm gonna text Quackenbush right now and tell me to stop throwing his junk in our backyard.
Phillips: Hey, Jervis Cottonbelley is a veteran of the independent scene, and like you and many others, he's now hoping to make a name for himself in the big leagues. That said, he'll have his work cut out for him tonight.
Cottonbelly climbs into the ring and turns to face the entrance ramp, eager to begin the contest.
Chimel: And his opponent... weighing in at 205 pounds... from Amsterdam, Holland... Aleister Black!
The End is here.
Psychedelic sludge - the gruesome bass line slithers through the speakers as all the lights in the arena dim. As occult imagery flashes across the titantron, the audience cheer with a cult-like fervency. The man they call the End slowly emerges amidst a rolling cloud of fog on the dimly lit stage, ignoring the fanfare as he proceeds towards the ring.
Phillips: There might not be a man in NXT more terrifying right now. Aleister Black has been virtually unstoppable since making his debut, and just recently earned the right to challenge Bray Wyatt for the UWF Intercontinental Championship.
Graves: I can't deny that he has looked very impressive so far, but this "evil" persona is going to be put to the test against Bray Wyatt. NXT might not have room for two psychopaths. And it certainly doesn't have room for whatever Jervis Cottonbelly is.
Now in the ring, Black crouches in his corner. Chimel heads to the outside while the Ref makes sure both men are ready to go. Jervis stands in the center of the ring and extends his hand for a sportsmanlike handshake to kick things off, but Black just stares up at him coldly and shakes his head. Jervis seems disappointed, devastated even, but perhaps that'll just add some fuel to his fire in his big debut. The Official calls for the bell and we're off!
DING DING DING
Black pulls himself up with the ropes like a cobra rearing up it's head, ready to strike. Jervis drops into a competitive grappling stance, ready to rumble. Aleister approaches slowly but confidently, hands up as he closes the gap. The two wrestlers meet up near the center of the squared circle and engage in a collar-and-elbow tie-up. Cottonbelley tries to drop his center of gravity to gain an advantage, but Black easily powers through, walking the Chikara native back into his own corner.
With Jervis back up against the ropes, the Referee steps in to break things up. The Big Dog lifts his hands and abandons the hold for a clean-break, and Black does the same, cautiously taking a few steps back from his cornered opponent without any foul play.
Phillips: Excellent sportsmanship from both men early on. Maybe Jervis can turn Aleister around.
Graves: I seriously doubt it.
The End gives Cottonbelly some room to get out of the corner and get back in the fight. Jerivs offers up some compliment or thanks, probably both, but whatever he says, it's lost under the roar of the crowd, and Black likely didn't care anyway. He certainly didn't reciprocate.
Once again, the two move in and lock up mid-ring. Rather than repeat himself, Black uses the position to transition into a clinch, and he fires off a trifecta of nasty knees up into Jervis' midsection. The luchador doubles over, but in doing so, hooks Aleister around on of his quads and slides from there into a roll-up position. The Ref is right on top of te action and quickly gets down for a count...
1...
Black easily kicks out and scurries back up to his feet. But Jervis does the same, and actually beats him to the punch. The World's Sweetest Man grabs hold of the Amsterdamned and hoists him into a fireman's carry position. Once he has his opponent up, Jervis just starts spinning around and around, frantically twirling clockwise with an Airplane Spin! he crowd counts off each rotation, even as they get slowly as the dizziness sets in.
Eventually, Jervis has no choice but to drop Black. The latter lands on his feet behind Cottonbelly, but is too disoriented to make a comeback. Jervis shakes off the chemical imbalance (no easy feat) and then turns to pick up Aleister again.
This time he scoops the number one contender for the IC belt up into a backdrop position. Instead of slamming him though, Jervis rocks him back and forth, shushing the crowd into silence as he does so.
Phillips: That's his patented modified version of the Sleeper! He's going to rock Aleister Black to sleep - it's a super effective maneuver, especially following the Airplane Spin!
Graves: Just... kill me now.
Just when it seems like the unorthodox move might be working and Aleister's eyes start to droop, he comes back to life and punches Jervis in the face. The Big Dog drops his opponent, who lands on his feet again. Cottonbelly attempts to stay on the offensive by going for a lariat, but Black ducks underneath and then catches him turning around with a snap kick to the chest.
Foot meets ribcage with a thunderous crack that elicits an "ooooooooh" from the fans. Whether he's catering to the people or just a sick bastard, its hard to say, but Black follows up with several more identical kicks, each coming faster than the one prior. It's like he's trying to chop down a tree.
Jervis staggers back, hardly able to breath after the onslaught. Black takes the opening to run across the ring, bounce off of the ropes and come charging back with a savage knee strike. His shin bone collides ful force with Jervis' masked face. NXT's newest talent goes down like lead balloon, dazed as all heck. Black lands on top of him and makes the cover...
1...
2...
But Jervis kicks out! There's some serious fight in this kid! Everything about Cottonbelly is kinda awe-inspiring, but Black seems more surprised than ever that he was able to withstand such a vicious strike.
Phillips: I don't think Black expected Jervis to survive that one. Jervis is showing a while lot of heart here!
Graves: Yeah and if he had a brain he might've known better and stayed down.
Aleister doesn't let the kick-out keep him distracted for long. His focus is on point. Standing up, he grabs Jervis and pulls him up as well before whipping him across the ring. It's almost miraculous the guy can walk at all, but instinct and momentum keep him on his feet as he runs to the ropes and rebounds back.
It might be that he's too beat up to understand what he's heading for, so Jervis puts up no resistance as he heads back at Black. Aleister has him scouted perfectly, and the moment Cottonbelly is in range, The Anti-Hero twists around at lightning speed and delivers the Black Mass!
Jervis drops down, totally out cold. Aleister hastily makes the covers and the ref counts it...
1...
2...
3...
DING DING DING
Your Winner...
ALEISTER BLACK!
Black gets off of Jervis and sits cross-legged next to him for a while. He stares down at the unconscious body, but he's eyes are glazed over, almost as if they're looking at something else entirely - something that nobody but him can see or even imagine.
His music hits the PA and finally he stands, the Referee timidly raising his hand in victory.
Phillips: Jervis gave it his best, but it didn't take much time or effort from Black to put him down. This man's arsenal is astounding - he's incredibly dangerous and deceptively fast. Couple his physical ability with whatever inner demons he's mastered and you could very well have the next UWF Intercontinental Champion.
Graves: Maybe, maybe not. Bray Wyatt isn't gonna be some walk in the park. But that fight will happen another time. Right now I just want to sit back and watch the medical team cart Jervis Cottonbelly out of here on a stretcher.
The EMT's are already rushing to the ring. Jervis hasn't moved since the Black Mass landed. Black doesn't seem concerned at all, though, as he climbs the ropes and solemnly heads back up the ramp. NXT continues elsewhere.
We see Snow and Prez in the backstage with Jojo, getting an quick interview in with them.
Jojo: How do you guys feel about taking on the Unified Tag Team Champions tonight.
Snow: Those Bucks? Yeah, they are going to be tough, tougher than bed of nails.
Jojo: I mean, they are young experienced within the Tag Team division of this company.
Snow: Well they are, but that doesn't mean that we won't try our hardest to beat those guys. Look Jojo, tonight will be the night that Headcheese will come home with another Win in our streak, but we know that we aren't as great we once were few years prior.
Jojo: Do you have any doubt ab---
Prez cuts in.
Prez: We have no doubts, we have no fear about those Bucks. They are going to die and all that. So in short, we're finished. Snow, lets hit the ring.
Then Prez walks off while Snow looks at Jojo like he don't know what is issues was, and walks with him as the next segment happens.
The feed takes us to a nondescript backstage area where Paul Ellering is standing by, staring into the camera. Almost immediately he starts speaking.
PAUL ELLERING
Believe only half of what you hear. That is how the old saying goes, and like so many old sayings, there is a modicum of wisdom contained within those words. For instance, I heard once upon a time that the Dudley Boys were the most dominant tag team in the history of this business. But I have been in this business a long time, and I have seen lots of tag teams come and go. I've been involved in my fair share of tag team wrestling matches, representing one of the best teams in the history of this sport. And let me tell you, there's nothing dominant about the Dudley Boys. But you don't have to believe the words you're hearing coming from my mouth... simply watch my team, the Authors of Pain, pick them apart and defeat them mere weeks ago and you'll be able to see for yourself, no hearing required.
Ellering pauses, smirking and allowing that thought to sink in. Then he continues.
Another thing I have heard is that my associate, Dolph Ziggler, is only ever second best. Well, that was a lie, wasn't it? After winning the Royal Rumble and embarrassing the likes of Kurt Angle, Chris Jericho and Kevin Steen for weeks on end, Dolph Ziggler destroyed Spike Dudley at UWF Vengeance and claimed the one token in this business that means you are the best. He has nothing left to prove, they say... but they are wrong. Just because he has reached the top doesn't mean he has any desire to abandon it. And in the coming weeks, everybody in this company is going to learn what it means to have the single best singles wrestler in the history of the industry as its single most important world champion.
Ellering pauses again, once more for dramatic effect. The camera pulls out and he crosses his arms as he wraps things up.
Believe only half of the things you hear is what they say. The half that you should believe, is the half you hear me say. Because in this part of the world, MY word is the law.
With that, Ellering clicks his tongue and then steps out of frame. The feed heads elsewhere shortly thereafter.
THE UNION
That two-tone guitar riff hits the PA. When The Young Bucks waltz on out, they're not getting a lotta love from the fans. They have both their NXT and Universal belts on their person, while The Boar brings up the rear carrying all their many other belts. They're all smiles and sunshine, cocky as ever as they head down the ramp towards the ring.
Tony Chimel: The following contest is scheduled for one fall! Introducing first, from Rancho Cucamonga California, they are the Unified World Tag Team Champions, Matt and Nick Jackson, the Young Bucks!
Once up in the squared circle, they stand on the turnbuckles to show off their gold. This doesn't really help with the crowd reaction, but do they give a hoot? Heck no. After hopping down, they bust out their signature leany-flexy pose until...
As soon we hear the riff playing, we see the duo coming out to the ring. We see Snow waving the Head around the audience, while Prez just walks down the ring with a Barbie in tow.
Tony Chimel: And their opponents, at a combined weight of 481 pounds, Al Snow and Steve Blackman, they are Headcheese!
Then both men enter the ring, and we see Prez holding up the Barbie as Snow taunts the fans to bring out their own Heads to wave in the arena. Both teams decide who's going to start off and the ref calls for the bell.
VS
DING DING DING
Steve Blackman looks to start things off with Matt Jackson. Matt doesn't seem to take Steve very seriously, pretending to be scared of him and busting out laughing. Blackman however is in no laughing matter, he gets right up in Matt's face and gives him a good shove. Matt just laughs before trying to catch him off guard with a superkick but Blackman catches it and shakes his head. He gives Matt a karate chop to the neck followed by multiple quick plam strikes to the chest and a leaping forearm shot to the face! Matt is dazed and on the ropes so Blackman shoots him off. Blackman goes for the fast finish with a bicycle kick but Matt hangs onto the ropes. Snow however kicks him in the back to bring him out to the center of the ring where Blackman kicks him in the stomach and follows up with a Scissors Kick!
1 . . .
2 . . .
Matt kicks out! Blackman puts him in a chin lock right away and brings him down to the mat.
Tom Phillips: Looks like the Young Bucks should start taking Headcheese a little more seriously.
Corey Graves: Serious? Their name is Headcheese!
Nick doesn't care about the rules and just comes in and kicks Blackman in the face to break the hold. The ref admonishes him but the payoff was worth it. Blackman stares at Nick as he picks up Matt and tells him he did this to his brother before picking up Matt in a vertical suplex. He stalls for a bit but Matt brings his knee down on the top of his head to get out. He stumbles backwards and Nick tags himself in. He hops over the ropes and dropkicks Blackman who also stumbles back allowing Snow to tag himself in. As he comes in through the ropes though, Nick dropkicks him and sends him to the floor below. Blackman comes over to retaliates with some clubbing blows to the back tosses Nick over the ropes but Nick hangs on. Blackman comes over but Nick gives him a shoulder thrust through the ropes, then jumps into the ring to plant Blackman with a facebuster! In one swift move though, he glides through the ropes and backflips off the apron onto Al Snow!
Corey Graves: Say what you want about their characters but the Young Bucks know how to get it done in the ring.
Tom Phillips: I'll admit, there's a reason why they've been so dominant in the tag team division.
Corey Graves: Glad to see you admit when you're wrong.
Nick picks up Al and tosses him back into the ring. Snow starts to get up but Nick measures him, waiting for him to turn around and going for a superkick! It connects but Snow doesn't go down. He's waving his arms backwards in a circle to try and stay up. Matt comes over and gives him a superkick to the jaw but it still doesn't take him down! Snow is just stumbling around, putting his fists up and telling the Bucks to bring it despite clearly not being all there. The Bucks shrug and give him a double superkick that finally knocks him out. Nick hooks the leg for the cover.
1 . . .
2 . . .
Blackman breaks up the count! Matt takes him and tosses him to the outside of the ring. Blackman lands on his feet and so Matt dives out with a plancha but Blackman just kicks him in the stomach on the way down! In the ring, Nick picks up Snow to his feet and while the ref is trying to control what's going on on the outside of the ring, Snow hits Nick with a low blow! Snow stands up and plants him with a DDT! He turns him over and yells at the ref to come make the count.
1 . . .
2 . . .
Nick kicks out at 2! Snow picks him up right away and brings him to his corner to tag in Blackman. He opens up Nick's ribs for Steve to punch him there before whipping him to the opposite corner. Matt is still on the ground so there's no concern for a tag. Blackman runs over but Nick gets his feet up. Unfortunately Blackman knew this would happen and he catches Nick's feet. He throws him over the ropes, looking to throw him to the floor but Nick hangs on and lands on the apron. He jumps up and hits Blackman with an enziguri to create some room. He then springboards into the ring but Blackman catches him with a Bicycle Kick! Nick is laid out as Blackman hooks the leg for the cover.
1 . . .
2 . . .
3 . . .
Matt pulls Blackman out of the cover!
Tom Phillips: Headcheese almost comes away with the victory right there!
Corey Graves: As much as I find their name stupid, Steve Blackman has always been a ruthless competitor and I wouldn't actually be surprised if they come out with a win.
Snow comes over running over and takes out Matt with a baseball together, Headcheese pick up Nick and and lift him up for a vertical suplex. Nick struggles in the air and manages to come back down with a double DDT! Blackman and Snow crawl over to opposite corners while Nick struggles to get to his feet. He sees both of them getting up in their corners and so he runs at Snow first and hits a drop kick. Next he runs over to Blackman and hits another drop kick in stereo with Matt who hopped onto the apron to hit Blackman with an Enziguri to the back of the head! Blackman comes stumbling out of the corner and Nick turns him upside down for the Meltzer Driver! Matt springboards off the ropes but Snow pushes Nick from behind knocking him into Matt who goes tumbling to the outside!
Snow continues to rail on Nick from behind before picking him up and tossing him to the ropes. Nick comes back right into the Snow Bomb! Al goes over to Steve to help him get to his feet and cover Nick but Blackman is still out of it. The ref tries to get some control in this match and manages to get Snow to exit the ring. Blackman and Nick start to rise to their feet, Blackman getting up first and seeing a kneeling Nick. He walks over thrust kick him in the head but Nick moves out of the way in time by jumping up and hitting an enziguri! Blackman stumbles to his corner and tags in Snow. Nick runs to his corner though and tags in Matt! Snow goes for a clothesline but Matt ducks under it and when Al turns around, he eats a superkick! Matt rushes over for the cover.
1 . . .
2 . . .
And Snow kicks out! Matt picks up Snow's body and places him on his shoulders. He yells out to Nick to get ready for More Bang For Your Buck. He runs forward and plants Snow with a rolling fireman's carry that pops him back to his feet. He quickly hops to the top turnbuckle and jumps off with a moonsault but Snow gets his knees up in time! Nick is up top for the 450 Splash but Blackman hops on the apron and shoves him off to the floor below! Blackman tries to enter the ring but the ref prevents that, allowing Snow to get to his corner and grab Head! Matt is trying to get up while holding onto his ribs and doesn't even see Snow with head in tow before he gets blasted in the face! Snow tosses Head out of the ring and Blackman backs off and tells the ref to count the pin.
1 . . .
2 . . .
3 . . .
Tony Chimel: Here are your winners, Headcheese!
Tom Phillips: They did it! They've beaten the tag team champions!
Corey Graves: They said they wouldn't play by the rules and I think the Bucks may not have taken them seriously but you can be sure this won't happen again.
Snow and Blackman stand in the ring with their respective barbie stick and Head, waving them around after the big victory until the live feed fades out.
The scene fades in from the black, and its ominous, Gothically-themed church time (uh oh). Consequently, the shadowy, darkened-out back of Aleister Black is facing the camera, and the only thing thats clearly visible, is Aleister Blacks silhouette, and a blinding, white light coming from behind him. The Master of Shadows speaks,
Aleister Black: Bray Wyatt
The Viking-like occultist trails off with a seductive, ominous undertone; speaking again-
Aleister Black: I find myself in grim satisfaction in that youve thwarted your competition against one half of the Uso brothers, as was expected. Ive waited for this moment for a very long time to wage my dark power to test my mettle. How few mortals are there that can truly do so? You are of rare company, Mister Wyatt. I require you. You have something much more than the Intercontinental Championship you know what it is and I want it And, I know When I take that power Itll be when I take that Intercontinental Championship and the fate that you thought was yours: to dominate the world, will instead meld into mine in the name of the undergod.
The sinister looking figures emerge from the light in the background, both of their eyes are completely blacked out with no pupils or whites, both are assumed to be the cameraman and Sebastian Hackl from Vengeance. With that, NXT rolls on.
Tony Chimel: Ladies and gentlemen, the following contest is scheduled for one fall and it is a non-title match. Introducing first, from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania and weighing 240 pounds, Kurt ANGLE!
The fans erupt in loud cheers as their Olympic Hero emerges from the back in a pseudo-jog, his gold medal worn proudly around his neck as he jogs to the top of the ramp, then performs his signature victory taunt while pyrotechnics erupt around him. Angle then heads down the ramp, clapping hands with a few eager fans before climbing the ring steps and entering the ring, heading straight to his corner to stretch and await his foe.
Tony Chimel: And his opponent. He is the UWF Intercontinental Champion! From Brooksville, Florida and weighing 285 pounds... Bray WYATT!
Those lights die, the fireflies come up in the crowd and soon a solitary lantern emerges on the stage, a bearded man visible just on the periphery of that lantern light. The lantern leads the way, the man following its light down the ramp, then around the ring, and up the stairs. Finally, Bray Wyatt blows out the lamp light as the house lights come up. He grins, then enters the ring, staring impassively at Angle who by now is fired up and ready to go as he leans back in the corner. The official performs his pre-match checks and then calls for the bell.
-VS-
DING DING DING
The bell rings and Wyatt is still leaning in the corner, smirking as he stares across the ring at Angle, who looks hyped and ready to go. "Come on, you crazy son of a bitch! Let's do this!" shouts Kurt from across the ring. Bray simply starts to laugh. This irritates the Olympic Hero, perhaps because of the disrespect being shown to the sport or to the fans, and so he starts to cross the ring. This entices Wyatt into action and he springs out of the corner to tie up Angle. The pair jostle for position but with Kurt being caught flat-footed, Wyatt quickly gains the advantage and drives Angle back into his own corner before connecting with a shoulder thrust, followed by another, and a third. Wyatt then brings Angle out of the corner and connects with a form of snapmare that sends Angle overhead to land on his arse, at which point Wyatt shouts, "Follow the buzzards!" before straight up kicking Angle in the side of the head. The Olympic Hero falls onto his side and rolls out of the ring, giving his head a shake as he tries to recover his senses.
Tom Phillips: Bray Wyatt off to an advantageous start here, Corey.
Corey Graves: You know, guys like Bray Wyatt are all about playing mind games and at least in the early going his head tricks worked. He lulled Angle into going on the offensive, and then quickly put the Olympic Hero on the retreat, Tom.
Angle shakes off the cobwebs and climbs back onto the apron, Wyatt giving him all the separation in the world to re-enter the ring. Kurt eyes his opponent a little more seriously now as the pair square up in the center of the squared circle, then tie up. This time, Angle spins out with an arm wrench but Wyatt reverses it into one of his own, twisting the joint for a few moments and then shoving Angle away, setting him free. Kurt shakes out his arm and then ties up again, this time rolling out into a belly-to-back clutch and lifting Wyatt off the canvas before grounding him. Angle works to try and get a grip somewhere, but Wyatt struggles and so Angle releases and gets back to his feet. Wyatt follows just mere moments after, but as he does Angle lurches forward and grounds him with a lariat! The fans pop for the maneuver and Angle grins, then pulls Wyatt to his feet and sends him off the ropes. On the rebound, Angle tosses him up and over with a back body drop! Wyatt lands on his tailbone and then rolls onto his side, the back of one hand bracing the area he impacted the canvas with. Angle rolls Wyatt onto his stomach and then applies a knee to his spine before grabbing his head, elevating it and stretching out Bray's back beneath his body weight! Angle keeps the hold locked for four seconds after the official starts to count him on it, and then releases Wyatt's neck before getting back to his own feet.
Corey Graves: The technical proficiency of Kurt Angle is almost unmatched here in the UWF Tom.
Tom Phillips: He can stretch and suplex with the best of them, that's for sure.
Angle starts to stalk Wyatt from a squatting position, watching for the Eater of Worlds to find his feet. Wyatt eventually does and as he does, he turns around into a belly-to-belly clutch from the Olympic Hero! Kurt tries the lift, but Wyatt plants his feet and then rears his head back and brings it forward with a nasty headbutt! Angle is dazed, but keeps his grip so Wyatt performs the maneuver two more times before he can break free, then drives Angle back into the ropes before launching him for the side opposite. As Angle rebounds, Wyatt lifts him up and drops him with a powerslam! Bray hooks the leg.
1...
...NO!
Tom Phillips: Wyatt comes up short with a kickout just before two.
Corey Graves: It's going to take more than a powerslam to defeat the Olympic Champion.
Angle rolls onto his side for a breather as Wyatt gets to his feet, considering how he wants to go about his renewed assault. As Angle gets vertical, Wyatt closes the gap and again ties him up, this time lifting a knee into Angle's gut to double him over, then bringing his fists down in an ax handle on Angle's upper back. Kurt stumbles away, bracing his back, as Wyatt closes in on him, but when the Eater of Worlds gets close Angle throws an almost instinctual elbow that catches Wyatt on the side of the face and sends him stumbling. Angle then turns around, tying up Wyatt so as to drive him into a corner and then slapping both of his hands away before unloading with a chop so hard to Wyatt's chest it could probably be heard halfway across the city. Chop! Chop! Chop! Chop! Kurt starts to unload with blow after blow as the fans shout "Oooh!" with each one until Angle's hand is too numb to continue, at which point he leads a doubled-over and gasping-for-air Eater of Worlds from the corner and drives his face into his knee! Angle then shoves Wyatt over onto the canvas and falls on to him for a cover.
1...
2...
...NO!
Just before the three, Wyatt finds the resolve to continue and kicks out.
Corey Graves: Consider the toughness of the Eater of Worlds. He just endured some of the hardest chops that a man could endure, direct to the chest, and still managed a kick-out, Tom.
Kurt runs a hand over his bald head as he gets up to one knee, then shakes that head as he pushes to his vertical base. He pulls Wyatt up to his feet and throws him into the ropes opposite. Wyatt rebounds and Kurt attempts a belly-to-belly, but Wyatt again plants his feet. This time there's no headbutt, just an awkward moment where the two superstars almost appear to be hugging before Angle transitions into a quick side headlock. Wyatt manages to get a grip around Angle's waist, however, and soon lifts him up and over to slam his back on the canvas! Angle naturally releases his holdd as Wyatt does this and the Eater of Worlds is laid out after the maneuver, the tolls of this match-up being felt on him keenly. Neither is Angle really moving after the slam, and for the briefest of moments it looks like both men will be unable to continue. But soon Wyatt starts to move, rolling to the ropes and using them to get back to his feet, as Angle drags himself to the corner and uses the turnbuckles. The fans are cheering for Angle and booing Wyatt, and the overall mix makes for a cacophony as both men find their feet and half-dazed, head for the center of the ring where they begin to trade blows. Wyatt throws a thunderous punch but Angle deflects it, connecting with a European uppercut. Wyatt staggers back a half-step, but then comes back with a left hook on a fierce arc that catches Angle flush to the side of the face, sending him careening back into the ropes. As he bounces off of those, Angle swings for a lariat, but Wyatt ducks under. Angle rebounds again and Wyatt catches him in the Sister Abigail clutch! But no! Angle has it scouted and stomps on Wyatt's foot, forcing a release. Angle then grabs Wyatt in a belly-to-belly clutch and tosses him overhead with an explosive suplex! The crowd loses their minds as Angle starts to get hyped, pulling down both of his shoulder straps and roaring. Then, rather suddenly...
Tom Phillips: Oh what the Hell!
Corey Graves: Hell is right, Tom, because here comes a man who claims to be the literal embodiment of it.
Tom Phillips: What does he even want?
Corey Graves: Well, he's the challenger for Bray Wyatt's title,
so maybe he's just come out to scope the opposition?
Tom Phillips: World's worst timing if that's really the case. And I sincerely doubt it is, Corey.
The man known as Aleister Black saunters slowly from the back, his face an impassive mask as he marches down the ramp. Angle stands, staring straight at him, almost daring Black to step up into the ring. Wyatt is still on the ground, probably down enough that Angle could seal the deal here, but he's concerned about the new arrival. Black hits the bottom of the ramp and stares at Angle for a good, hard moment, then rounds the ring to sit near the announcers' area, shaking his head. Angle seems confused, but he is twice as confused as he turns into a Sister Abigail clutch! The Intercontinental Champion glares right at Aleister Black as he plants a kiss on Angle's forehead, then brings him crashing face-first into the canvas with his finishing maneuver! The fans boo, Black seems aggravated and gets to his feet, and Wyatt hooks the leg.
Tom Phillips: And it looks like the brief distraction is about to give Bray Wyatt a victory here! I don't believe this crap!
1...
2...
...
Corey Graves: I guess Aleister Black has something to say about what's just gone down, Tom!
The fans are baffled as the count abruptly starts, Aleister Black having dragged the official from the ring. The official has some words with Black and the man known as the End turns as though to leave, but as soon as the official climbs up onto the apron Black slides into the ring! Wyatt gets to his feet just in time to catch the Black Mass right to the face and right in plain sight of the official who calls for the bell!
DING DING DING!
Here is your winner,
as a result of disqualification
BRAY WYATT!
Black, the Intercontinental challenger, looms over the champion who is lying dazed in the center of the ring, perhaps unaware that he has even won this match-up.
Corey Graves: Aleister Black made a powerful statement here tonight, Tom, and I think it's safe to say that Bray Wyatt will have his work cut out for him in the coming weeks.
Tom Phillips: But I wouldn't expect a fierce competitor like Kurt Angle to just let this one slide, either! Aleister Black just cost him a match he probably could have won!
Black smirks as he once more surveys the damage he has caused, and then he heads out of the ring and to the back while personnel check on both men in the ring, both of whom seem responsive as the feed moves along.
Corey Graves: What a night we've had tonight. Definitely better than whatever WarZone's been doing lately.
Tom Phillips: And right now, we'd like to show you an interview from last week with "Y2J" Chris Jericho and Michael Cole.
Corey Graves: And it keeps getting better.
On the TitanTron appears prerecorded footage from just after Vengeance. Michael Vole is sitting across from the aforementioned Chris Jericho.
Michael Cole: Chris, first of all congratulations on your win against Mr. Money In The Bank Kurt Angle...
Chris Jericho: Thanks, Michael.
Michael Cole: ...but you did win by a rollup. Do you think a rematch will be in your future?
Chris Jericho: What kind of question is that? You're already starting off bad. There's no need for a rematch. I beat Angle 1-2-3 in the middle of the ring. If he wanted to beat me, he should've kicked out, but he didn't. He'll end up with an 0-1 record against me as I move on to bigger and better things.
Michael Cole: And what will those bigger and better things be?
Chris Jericho: Well, I could probably go for the Intercontinental or Hardcore Championships, but they already have number one contenders, so they go out the window. I'm not a tag team, so there goes that idea. I guess there's only one thing left to do.
Michael Cole: Are you suggesting you're going to go after Dolph Ziggler's International Championship?
Chris Jericho: Why wouldn't I? I've proven that I can beat some of the best. I beat Wyatt and Angle, and it took a low blow from Ziggler to put me down. Besides, there aren't any good contenders anymore. Spike Dudley's a joke, Kevin Steen can't beat said joke, I already took care of Angle... There's not much resistance on the path to the International Title.
Michael Cole: You do realise you've only been back for 2 months, meaning the NXT roster won't be seeing you as a threat.
Chris Jericho: My point exactly. Now is my time to capitalise on a situation that favors me. If they don't take me as a serious threat, then I'll end up being their champion before you can say "Wait a minute. This Jericho guy's actually pretty good." I promise you this. If Dolph Ziggler wants to get his chicken shit ass down to the ring and fight me for his title, he'll end up right back down in second place where he belongs. I'm ready to put myself on top and prove that I am the new Face of NXT. No AOP, no Union, no Dudley Boys, and no Wyatt Family is going to stop me from rising up and achieving my goal: The International Championship.
Michael Cole: What about th-
Chris Jericho: This interview is over. Thanks for having me, and no more questions, or you're gonna get...
Jericho gets up and walks away, leaving Michael Cole alone in the room.
Michael Cole: What am I going to get?
Jericho pops back up.
Chris Jericho: IT!!!
Jericho again walks off. This time, NXT heads elsewhere.
The audience is buzzing before a familiar theme song begins to play over the arena sound system and the Titantron flares to life as the house lights are lowered, at which point they start booing.
From the back lumber Akam and Rezar, Paul Ellering hot on their heels as the two behemoths march out to either edge of the stage and shout in their native tongues at the fans, who boo back. Akam and Rezar then join Ellering at the top of the ramp and the trio, on Ellering's prompting, descend the ramp.
When they reach the foot of the ramp, Ellering climbs the ring steps while Akam and Rezar round the ring, head to the timekeepers area, and grab Tony Chimel by either arm, dragging him out and tossing him into the ring. Akam and Rezar then climb up onto the apron and enter over the top ropes, one grabbing Chimel roughly to hold him in place near the corner while another rounds up two microphones. He hands the first to Paul Ellering, who turns it on, and stands by Rezar and Chimel while Ellering begins to speak.
PAUL ELLERING
Ladies and gentlemen, what you witnessed at UWF Vengeance was the beginning of the end of everything as you knew it. The Dudleys' reign at the top of the tag division was brought to a conclusion by Akam and Rezar, and now their hold over the UWF International Championship has been ended, too. All of the pieces are in motion, and the end for all of your heroes is extremely nigh. Your efforts to resist and rebel are futile. Your fate is sealed. This... everything that has come to pass, and everything that has yet to come to pass... is destiny. And it starts with the man you now all have the pleasure to welcome. The new, UWF International Champion. Tell them, Tony.
Ellering steps back as Akam shoves a microphone in Tony Chimel's hand and Rezar shoves him out to the center of the ring. He looks over his shoulder at Ellering, who gestures for him to go ahead, and he raises the microphone to his mouth. Chimel sounds none-too-pleased to utter the following words:
TONY CHIMEL
Ladies and gentlemen, it is my pleasure to introduce to you the NEW UWF International Champion...
DOLPH ZIGGLER!
His bit done, Rezar snatches the microphone from Chimel and shoves him out of the ring. Chimel brushes off his suit and glares at the Authors of Pain, who glare back, as the by-now-familiar theme of the UWF's resident show off begins to play.
From the back emerges the UWF International Champion, the fans even more animated in their contempt for Dolph Ziggler as he proudly sports the UWF International Championship around his waist. Ziggler unbuckles the title and hoists it in the air at the top of the ramp, flicking the sweat from his slicked-back blonde hair with his free hand and smirking for the crowd before he places the title snug on his shoulder and heads down the ramp. Ziggler climbs the ring steps, sits on the second rope and looks out to the crowd with icy daggers for eyes as the fans boo the ever-loving shit out of him. He then steps through the ropes and into the ring, crossing it to shake hands with Paul Ellering a gesture that draws further contempt before Rezar hands him the microphone he just snatched from Chimel. Ziggler turns toward the fans, looks at the belt on his shoulder, adjusts it slightly and then lifts the microphone up to address the booing masses.
DOLPH ZIGGLER
Will you all shut the Hell up? I know that you're all jealous. You're all jealous because of your basement-level IQs, because of your sky-high BMIs or maybe because frankly, you're just not capable of being anything else. That's fine, but you don't have to go and ruin everyone else's fun and you most certainly don't have to ruin
my UWF International Championship celebration.
That declaration draws another wave of heat from the crowd and Ziggy lowers the microphone to turn and confer briefly with Paul Ellering. The pair chat for a few moments and then Ziggler turns back toward the crowd and the camera and continues speaking.
I've been saying for more than a year now that I am the most athletically talented, technically gifted and physically divine specimen to ever grace a UWF ring and now... now I finally have the prize that puts all of you doubters and naysayers to rest, and unlike the guy I beat to claim it, I didn't have to do anything untoward, underhanded or unorthodox to lay my hands on it. That's right, ladies and gentlemen: the man you all used to know as your UWF International Champion, Spike Dudley, was nothing more than a lowdown cheater and when all the chips were on the table at Vengeance, I proved that unless he cheats or rides on someone else's coattails, he couldn't overcome me on his very best day. And make no mistake about it, while you might not be able to tell I can and I know for a fact Spike Dudley was giving me everything he had at Vengeance. I could see it in his eyes, I could hear it in every laboured breath and I could feel it every time I had him down for a near fall before finally catching that last, definitive 3-count. Your favourite, your hero, your perennial underdog... at UWF Vengeance... he failed to overcome the sheer, unadulterated brilliance of me. The man. The legend. The UWF International Champion. The DOLPH ZIGGLER!
More heat for Ziggy as he pauses for dramatic effect. Then he raises a finger to his lips and into the mic, he continues:
Shh shh shh... don't worry. You might all resist now. You might all think that your favourite show has been spoiled, that the worst thing imaginable could happen and that NXT is about to come apart at the seams because I'm at the top of the food chain now, but you couldn't be more wrong. See, as Paul said, all of this from day one... from the first day that I stepped back into this company and joined the roster of the show that would become NXT... all of this has been the destiny of this program. This has been in the cards, just waiting to come to pass, and when all of the stars finally aligned... I stood up and I seized my opportunity. And now, all of the doubt is dispelled, the chip is off my shoulder and I am completely and utterly uninhibited. The only thing on my mind now is that I am the UWF International Champion and as long as there is a breath in my lungs, I will fight against all comers to keep my iron grip on this championship. I don't care who it is: Kevin Steen, Kurt Angle, Chris Jericho or even Spike Dudley himself... whoever's next will be just the first in a long line of failed attempts to take this belt away from the man who fought and spilled his own sweat, blood and tears for it for the past year and a half, who gave everything every night to finally stand here and who, in spite of all of your protestations and all of your hatred, overcame every ounce of adversity and every hurdle thrown in his path so he could realize his dream.
Ziggler now heads to the end of the ring that stands at the end of the entrance ramp and he looks up at the titantron before sweeping the fans on either side with his ice-cold eyes. Finally he fixes his gaze back on the top of the stage and continues.
Paul is right that it was destiny for me to claim this championship, but it doesn't stop here. See, I'm in the empire business and the way I see it, there's still a few more titles worth claiming. This isn't just destiny that you've all had the glory to witness, this is the onset of a Dynasty, and when we are done with UWF NXT... you're hardly going to recognize the pla--
Rather abruptly, Ziggler is interrupted. No prices for guessing who is responsible for this interruption as fireworks come streaming down from the ceiling and onto the stage. The fireworks are accompanied by some words.
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 and more importantly Dolph Ziggler and The AOP aren't left waiting long as The Dudley Clan come from behind the curtain, with Stacy looking all fired up all with mics in hand.
They all stop on the top of the ramp looking down at the other superstars in the ring. Spike lifts the mic to his mouth as they slowly begin their walk down to the ring.
Spike Dudley: When I arrived here tonight, seeing that we had a scheduled celebration for the new International Champion, I had every single intention to stay out of it and let you have your moment in the sun. I was adamant I was going to keep my nose out of it and allow you the little party that winning that title deserves. I still remember mine like it was yesterday.
The clan has reached the steps as Stacy goes up the steps first, waiting for Devon and Bubba to open the ropes for her as she goes through, being followed by the pair as Spike doesn't do this. Instead, Spike climbs up the steps and seats himself on the turnbuckle as Dolph and the AOP just have blank looks on their faces, not really bothered by the interruption it seems.
Spike: But then I walked through the arena and I was greeted by Jo Jo. She wanted to know my thoughts on Vengeance. I gave her a short summary and was on my way but maybe I should have vented more to her, let off a little steam because I walked off, went to my lockeroom, sat in front of the tv and I did a little bit of thinking. I wasn't in the best mood to be reflecting on things but I did anyway and that is when my intentions changed and that's why you find all the Dudley Clan standing or sitting in my case in front of you 4 guys.
You see, I came to the conclusion that Jo Jo wasn't there to interview us, we just happened to walk by her so she didn't want to make it awkward. I know this because I wasn't given a match tonight and I wasn't even given some airtime. I came to the conclusion that it had already started. It's already started, people are overlooking me and pushing me back down to the bottom. Is that anyway to treat your former International Champion? I only lost that title last week and then I was given the week off to stew on the loss and not be able to vent my frustrations. It's not ideal but it was what it was....... until I decided to do something about it. That's why I'm out here right now Dolph. I'm doing something about it. That's why I'm stealing your thunder somewhat, that's why I'm here talking about myself instead of congratulating you on you title win, you would do the same thing though since you never gave me credit for my title win so turn about is fair play. I'm here because I'm making sure I don't go to the bottom just yet as I'm not ready to fight my way back up the card just yet. I'm still in the top 2 superstars on NXT right now and I want my TITLE REMATCH.
Spike yells this as he looks straight at Dolph who just begins to laugh. Spike seems undeterred as the crowd start a Dudley chant, going berzerk as they want to see Spike vs Dolph once again. Spike smiles now as he continues.
You know that Title Rematch I'm guaranteed? Yer I want it, I don't care when, I don't care in what match, I don't even care when, I want that title back around my waist. My new theme song sings that it's One Time for the Underdog but those words won't mean squat when I beat you and become the Two Time International Champion and I ain't leaving until someone higher up gives me what I want!!!!
Spike lowers the mic, Dolph still laughing shaking his head as he adjusts the title. Spike is still on the turnbuckle as Bubba and Devon are standing in front of him, looking ready for a fight. The tension is building up as....
A mixed response from the crowd who still think she's a bimbo but she did make a popular decision to start the show so some people cheer. She has a mic in hand this time and speaks form the stage.
Dixie Carter: Well now aren't you a little somethin'! I was talking with Maxine backstage and apparently Ethan has made it so that nobody is automatically entitled to a rematch of any sort. Rematches only happen if he decides there should be one so sorry little Spike but you will not be receiving an automatic rematch.
The crowd now fully turns against her and she seems a bit hurt by it.
Dixie Carter: Now hold on y'all hold on! Just because it's not automatically happening doesn't mean he's not getting a chance to regain that title. You see Maxine told me we should just let the next in line get a shot but she's not running the show, I am. And I happen to like this little guy so I'll tell you what, at No Mercy, you Spike Dudley will get a rematch for the International Championship! And just to make sure there won't be any little interference, it'll be inside a Hell in a Cell!
Dixie Carter has made the announcement and it's official. Spike seems ecstatic, fist pumping in the air as the crowd cheer loudly for Dixie's announcement. Spike points towards Dolph as he doesn't seem that fazed at all. He seems to have a little bit of a cocky smile. Spike nods his head, mouthing something as Dolph comes a little closer towards The Dudley Clan....... that is shown to be a big mistake as out of nowhere, Spike jumps up on the turnbuckle, leaping off and over the head of his brothers and landing a cross body on the champ. Dolph drops the title and that is the switch that turns everything into what was always going to happen. Spike remains on Dolph, raining down punches on him as The AOP step forward but get straight into a brawl with The Dudley Boyz, Stacy and Paul think better off of getting physical as both look at each other, shaking their head and quickly making their exits out the ring leaving the trios to battle it out.
It might have help if Stacy had stayed in there as Rezar gets the upper hand on Devon and Akam is in the same boat against Bubba. Akam kicks Bubba in the gut, bending him over as he double axe handles him in the back as Bubba hits the floor. Rezar has pushed Devon back into the corner and is kicking away at his mid sections as Bubba rolls out of the ring, holding his back. Akam changes his focus, going over to help Dolph Ziggler, puling Spike off of Dolph by his hair as Spike lets out a yelp of pain. He lifts Spike up and delivers a short clothesline. He helps Dolph to his feet as Dolph doesn't look happy as he cleans a little drop of blood from the corner of his mouth. He tells Akam to pick Spike up, being followed, Akam picks up the former champ, lifting him to his feet as Dolph slaps him, screaming in his face and holding his chin. He follows up with another slap and then a kick to the gut. Spike lowers down to his knee as Dolph delivers a straight boot to the side of the head. Spike crumbles as Stacy looks on in horror. Dolph isn't finished there though. He once again tells Akam to lift Spikey to his feet but this time he backs up to the opposite corner where Rezar is still laying the boot into Devon. Dolph begins to tune up the band as Akam holds Spike up. Dolph begins to laugh as he points towards his boot, then to Spike. He stops the tuning as he begins his little build up to the superkick, getting right to the end and lifting his leg to connect with Spike's jaw.............
BUT out of nowhere like a ninja, Bubba catches Dolph's foot an inch from Spike's face. Dolph looks surprised as hell as Bubba shakes his head at Dolph. He then waves his finger back and fourth in front of his face. Dolph is pleading with Bubba, begging him not to do anything but Bubba drops his foot to the ground, following up with a punch, then another punch and another and finishes it off by telling Dolph to suck it delivering the Bionic Elbow. You might be wondering where Akam is whilst this is happening, well it seems Bubba catching Dolph's foot was the turning point as Spike has been elbowing Akam in the gut. He also grabbed Akam's finger, giving it a bite as he screams in pain. Devon has followed suit with his brothers as he got the upper hand over Rezar. Bubba changes his attention to Akam who is shaking his hand as he grabs him by the head and tosses him over the top rope, at the feet of Paul Ellering.
Dolph has got back to his feet but barely before Spike runs at him full ball, bending low and hitting a headbutt to the gut. Dolph doubles over as Spike tells Bubba to get on him now, telling him to hit the Bubba Bomb. Bubba nods his head and obliges, grabbing Dolph from behind, setting up for the Bubba Bomb but before he can hit it, Dolph wriggles free, scampering out of the ring and joining his team on the outside. Spike claps him dodging a bullet as he looks at sees the International Championship still in the ring. He points to it, then points back at Dolph but then his attention is turned to the corner where Devon has Rezar where he wants him. A massive smile comes onto Spike's face as he goes and pulls Devon off of him. Spike calms him down, telling him to back off and watch the trio on the outside of the ring. Akam and Dolph get to their feet at the same time, standing next to Paul. Akam let's ready to step in again but Paul steps in front of him, convincing him that wouldn't be the smartest decision. The Dudleyz stand there, motioning for them to get back in the ring but the duet don't take them up on that offer.......
That leaves poor old Rezar in the ring alone and at the mercy of the Dudley Clan. Spike has him on his feet, looking dead in the eyes of Dolph as he sets him up, getting him ready to hit the Dudley Dog. Spike runs towards the turnbuckle, jumping up and hitting his Dudley Dog whilst never taking his eyes off Dolph. Rezar's face hits the mat and it doesn't finish him off as his face bounces so hard off the mat that his momentum takes him back to his feet... that's unfortunate as he walks straight into a 3D!!!!! . Rezar is laid out, laid out in the ring as Bubba and Devon push him out of the ring with their feet. Stacy makes her way back into the ring as Akam picks Rezar off the floor and back to his feet. The four men quickly walk around the ring, making their way to the bottom of the ramp as Spike spots the International Title in the ring again. He picks it, walking over and placing it on the floor of the ring, just in front of Dolph. Dolph quickly goes and grabs it, pulling it from the ring whilst looking at Spike. Dolph shakes his head before he lifts the title up high in the air.
Spike hasn't taken his eyes off Dolph the whole time as he just bends down, looking intense. His brothers decide to come over and put their hands on his shoulders whilst staring at the foursome as well as this is the last image of NXT as NXT comes to a close.
END OF SHOW
Confirmed for No Mercy
International Championship
Hell in a Cell
Dolph Ziggler(c) vs Spike Dudley
Intercontinental Championship
Bray Wyatt(c) vs Aleister Black
Hardcore Championship
Baron Corbin(c) vs Pete Dunne
Kevin Steen vs Chris Jericho
Credits
Jervis vs Black - Fauche
Angle vs Wyatt, Dunne vs Jimmy - Crann
Headcheese vs Young Bucks - Danny