Post by WASTELAND on Jan 4, 2024 0:57:44 GMT
As the cameras fade into the arena as the shows opening continues to play in the background, the camera begins to pan around the sold out Zion Stadium in Orlando, Florida. The home of the debut episode of Wednesday Night Wasteland! Rob Zombies cover of “Blitzkrieg Bop” begins to fade out as the crowd continues to chant for Zion Wrestling and Wasteland… as a familiar tune begins to play.
As the signature opening guitar riff of “Zombie” by The Cranberries begins to play throughout the stadium it can only mean one thing. The arrival of former Zion National Champion, Oliver Peters! The crowd lose their minds at this revelation and Olly makes his way out to the stage, a look of joy on his face as he looks around at the crowd, making his way down to the ring, microphone in hand as he slides under the bottom rope and looks around at the crown, then begins to speak.
Oliver Peters: Man… it feels good to be back in front of you good people!
He says and the crowd cheers for him. He loves this, and he looks around again with a smile.
Oliver Peters: Listen… look I don’t wanna take up too much of your time here to start the show. Cause this ain’t about me… this is about the people back there who are gonna come out here and give you guys the show that you all paid to see!
Once more the crowd begins to cheer, and Olly looks around with a smile on his face as they slowly start to quiet down.
Oliver Peters: So… here's the announcements. Number One!... I am the General Manager of Wednesday Night Wasteland!
That announcement got a huge reaction from the Zion crowd. Olly holds his arms out to try and get the crowd to calm down a little.
Oliver Peters: Hang on guys… hang on. There's one more announcement coming… I can now confirm to you all who the next big signing of this, the newest brand for Zion Wrestling! So… could my mystery guest PLEASE come on out here… and give these people an introduction!
A young blonde woman, dressed in red pants and a black lace top, makes her way to the stage with a smile on her face, waving and shaking hands with the fans as she heads toward the ring. On her way, she grabs a microphone and steps inside the ropes, greeting the former Zion National Champion with a dazzling smile and a handshake.
Jenna Sharpe: Sounds like some of you might already be familiar with me but for those who aren’t? My name is Jenna Sharpe. I am the Canadian Wildcat, a submission specialist and third-generation wrestling superstar. I hail from Calgary, Alberta, Canada and I am very excited to be here in Zion as part of the Wasteland roster!
Olly smiles and continues to speak.
Oliver Peters: Now… Jenna. The reason I signed you is, well… I saw all the other places you were in closing down. Someone with talent such as yourself should not be sitting at home, wasting the best years of your career away. So… of course I had to reach out, and I’m glad you responded. So, Jenna. While I got you out here, what’s your message to the people here today?
Jenna Sharpe: And I really do appreciate you reaching out and providing me with this opportunity. It’s been months since I’ve stepped into a ring but if my opponents think that’s a reason to underestimate me? They’re wrong. My message to the fans and to the locker room is pretty simple: I’m here to prove that I am one of the best wrestlers in the world today. I am tired of being put on the back burner time and time again - I am coming for every opportunity I can get my hands on. I intend to earn all the accolades and titles that I’ve been denied in other places, and I will not let anyone on this roster get between me and my goals.
Oliver Peters: And I think everyone in the arena can respect that from you, Jenna. I wouldn’t have hired you if I didn’t believe in you or what you can do. Alright… I’m gonna leave you to your new adoring fans now, just don’t take up all our TV time, Jenna.
Olly says with a smile, before walking over to the corner near the timekeeper and hands them the microphone, before walking back to Jenna and giving her a handshake, saying something out of earshot for the Zion wrestling fans before raising her hand high and leaving her to the fans.
Jenna Sharpe: I know Olly’s got a hell of a show planned for you all tonight, so I won’t keep you guys too much longer. Being here in Zion means a world of new opportunities, new opponents, and new challenges, and I can’t wait for you all to come along on this journey with me. Last year didn’t exactly end on a high note for me, but I know that 2024 is going to be the year of the Jennaissance. And the next time you all see me, it’ll be in this ring, ready to fight my way to the top of Wasteland!
The fans start cheering as Jenna exits the ring, heading up the ramp so that the first match can get started.
Outside of the majestic Zion Stadium, we see Abigail Lindsay in the parking lot. She is sitting on a pink Harley Davidson motorcycle. To show off the power of her demon on wheels she revs the engine. Turning to the camera she flashes a cheeky grin.
Abigail Lindsay: “Above all things, little ole me prides herself on being a pragmatist. In the spirit of all things pragmatic lets look at the facts, Morgan Payne is the Un... sorry, Global Heavyweight Champion. How many rebrands does it make for Mayhem’s top title now? That’s neither here nor there. Chrissy is back, hooray for the return of the Last of the Valkyries. Was looking forward to me and Lily cutting up the tag scene, but I understand. The Valkyries are one of the best in the game, trust me, I know. Then we have Nami who is looking to make 2024 better than 2023. The Kingdom has plenty of representation in the land of Zion Wrasslin, so where does that leave little ole me?
“What oh what does Abigail do?”
Abigail shrugs her shoulders.
Abigail Lindsay: “I already mastered the art of looking pretty as fuck. I can’t keep all you fans out of my DMs. I can make you laugh. Been awhile since I made you cry. There are times I forget I am in the pro wrasslin business, you don’t tune into a wrasslin program to see what is going on with The Kingdom behind the scenes, in the ring is what ultimately matters. Since losing my half of the World... keep forgetting NFW hasn’t upgraded the Tag Championships to WORLD Tag Team Championships, I have done next to nothing. Except for driving a former friend out the business. No one remembers or talks about that. Where does that leave little ole me?”
“Should I retire? Should I become a Sister House Wife? I know myself. I would drive myself bat shit crazy sitting at home. I need excitement in my life. Learning about the opening of Zion’s 80th attempt of a third brand gave me an idea, why not make Wasteland into my personal Kingdom? Queen of the Wasteland is pretty good marketing.”
“Sayge, you will be the first to bow to the Queen. Raise. The. Roof. ”
Abigail does the raise the roof motion. Revving the engine one last time she drives into the arena as the scene fades to black.
OPENING CONTEST Team Big, Tall and Cute as FUCK vs The Gemstones
Kelly Kash and Ruby Steele start the match for their teams, both of them eager to redeem themselves after their recent losses! They lock up in the center of the ring, with Steele getting the early advantage in the form of a Wristlock! Kash isn’t one to mess around however, quickly cinching in a Wristlock of her own to counter! This one has a bit more anger behind it, with a few violent tugs on Steele’s arm from Kash indicating that she’s not messing around here! She looks to tag in Ayumi Kawada, but this quickly backfires, with Steele stomping on Kash’s foot to throw her off! She quickly capitalizes, managing to get Kash into position before dropping her with a DDT! She isn’t finished from there however, rolling through and taking Kash to the mat with a Snap Brainbuster! She floats over for the pin!
ONE…!
TWO…!
Kick out by Kash! Steele pulls Kash to feet looking for another Suplex like move! But Kash reverses it, nailing Steele with a few shots to the midsection before jumping up and connecting with a Knee Strike! She hits the ropes, with Kawada getting the blind tag on her as she does! She rushes under a Lariat attempt from Steele before rushing to the other side of the ring and sliding under the bottom rope, dragging Sapphire Taylor off of the apron in the process! Meanwhile, in the ring, Kawada launches through the ropes, taking Steele down with a Slingshot Spear! Pin by Kawada!
ONE…!
TWO…!
Kick out by Steele! Kawada looks to finish this one off, getting Steele in position for the Flash Knee! But Steele pushes Kawada away before she can complete the move, jumping on her shoulders from behind and planting her with a Poisonrana! She takes to the top rope now, jumping off and connecting with a Diving Moonsault! Pin by Steele!
ONE…!
TWO…!
THREE-
Pin broken up by Kelly Kash! Sapphire Taylor now hops to the defense of her bandmate here, grabbing Kash and dumping her out of the ring! Taylor sees and opening, with Steele literally opening up the ropes as she goes for a Suicide Dive onto Kash! She quickly gets back to the apron, with Steele tagging her in before dropping Kawada onto her knee with a Backbreaker! She holds Kawada on her knee, with Taylor diving in with an Elbow Drop! Pin by Taylor!
ONE…!
TWO…!
THREE-
NO! Kash once again makes the save, this time pulling Taylor out of the ring before the three count can finish! Ruby Steele looks to cut Kash off, launching to the outside off the top rope with a Moonsault! But Kash is smart enough to pull Taylor in the way, leaving her to catch the brunt of her own partner’s move! Kash throws Taylor back into the ring, before quickly getting onto the apron, with Kawada reaching the corner just in time to tag her in! Kash immediately rushes towards a recovering Taylor, dropping her with the Kash Flow! Running Blockbuster connects! She goes for the pin!
ONE…!
TWO…!
THREE-
Kick out by Taylor! Kash looks to finish this one off, going towards the corner to take to the top rope! But that’s when she sees Jack Morrison at ringside, waving at her condescendingly as this catches both her’s and the referee’s attention! The referee argues that Morrison needs to leave, not knowing this was a ruse to help out Calvin Faye and Brianna Logan who come from behind the barricade to gang up on Ayumi Kawada! The two beat down Kawada at ringside, throwing her into steel steps before booking it over the barricade again! Kash looks over to see they’ve been screwed, chastising the official for their lack of attentiveness! This leaves an opening for Taylor however, who nails Kash with the Mushroom Stomp! She tags in Ruby Steele, with the two getting Kash in position and dropping her with the Super Diamond Dust! Pin by Steele!
ONE…!
TWO…!
THREE!!
ONE…!
TWO…!
Kick out by Kash! Steele pulls Kash to feet looking for another Suplex like move! But Kash reverses it, nailing Steele with a few shots to the midsection before jumping up and connecting with a Knee Strike! She hits the ropes, with Kawada getting the blind tag on her as she does! She rushes under a Lariat attempt from Steele before rushing to the other side of the ring and sliding under the bottom rope, dragging Sapphire Taylor off of the apron in the process! Meanwhile, in the ring, Kawada launches through the ropes, taking Steele down with a Slingshot Spear! Pin by Kawada!
ONE…!
TWO…!
Kick out by Steele! Kawada looks to finish this one off, getting Steele in position for the Flash Knee! But Steele pushes Kawada away before she can complete the move, jumping on her shoulders from behind and planting her with a Poisonrana! She takes to the top rope now, jumping off and connecting with a Diving Moonsault! Pin by Steele!
ONE…!
TWO…!
THREE-
Pin broken up by Kelly Kash! Sapphire Taylor now hops to the defense of her bandmate here, grabbing Kash and dumping her out of the ring! Taylor sees and opening, with Steele literally opening up the ropes as she goes for a Suicide Dive onto Kash! She quickly gets back to the apron, with Steele tagging her in before dropping Kawada onto her knee with a Backbreaker! She holds Kawada on her knee, with Taylor diving in with an Elbow Drop! Pin by Taylor!
ONE…!
TWO…!
THREE-
NO! Kash once again makes the save, this time pulling Taylor out of the ring before the three count can finish! Ruby Steele looks to cut Kash off, launching to the outside off the top rope with a Moonsault! But Kash is smart enough to pull Taylor in the way, leaving her to catch the brunt of her own partner’s move! Kash throws Taylor back into the ring, before quickly getting onto the apron, with Kawada reaching the corner just in time to tag her in! Kash immediately rushes towards a recovering Taylor, dropping her with the Kash Flow! Running Blockbuster connects! She goes for the pin!
ONE…!
TWO…!
THREE-
Kick out by Taylor! Kash looks to finish this one off, going towards the corner to take to the top rope! But that’s when she sees Jack Morrison at ringside, waving at her condescendingly as this catches both her’s and the referee’s attention! The referee argues that Morrison needs to leave, not knowing this was a ruse to help out Calvin Faye and Brianna Logan who come from behind the barricade to gang up on Ayumi Kawada! The two beat down Kawada at ringside, throwing her into steel steps before booking it over the barricade again! Kash looks over to see they’ve been screwed, chastising the official for their lack of attentiveness! This leaves an opening for Taylor however, who nails Kash with the Mushroom Stomp! She tags in Ruby Steele, with the two getting Kash in position and dropping her with the Super Diamond Dust! Pin by Steele!
ONE…!
TWO…!
THREE!!
The camera focuses on Willow standing in a gritty backstage area, surrounded by the raw energy of punk rock posters. Dressed in her distinctive attire, she begins her debut promo with a confident yet down-to-earth demeanor.
Willow: Hey there, wrestling world. Willow here, and tonight, I step into this ring not as your typical wrestler, but as someone unapologetically embracing who they are.
She gestures to her surroundings, filled with punk rock vibes.
Willow: I've been called The Horror Punk Prodigy, and yeah, I've got a thing for the darker side of life. But let's get one thing straight – I'm not here to play a character or fit into some wrestling stereotype. I'm here to be me.
Her gaze pierces through the camera, a blend of confidence and authenticity.
Willow: You won't see me throwing around catchphrases or pretending to be something I'm not. What you'll get is a wrestler who brings heart, soul, and a damn good fight into this squared circle.
A subtle grin appears as she reflects on her journey.
Willow: I've trained, I've bled, and tonight, I step into the ring not just for me, but for every person who's felt a little different, a little rebellious. Call me a tweener, call me whatever you want – I'm standing here because I believe in the power of individuality.
She nods, acknowledging the diverse audience.
Willow: So, whether you're cheering for me, against me, or just here for the show, know that I'm here to make my mark. The Horror Punk Prodigy thing? Yeah, it's cool, but what's cooler is the journey we're about to embark on together.
The punk rock spirit intensifies as she continues.
Willow: So buckle up, wrestling world. Willow's in town, and it's time to bring some authentic, unfiltered energy to this ring. Let's make some noise.
The camera lingers on Willow's determined expression as the promo concludes with a subtle nod, capturing the essence of her no-nonsense approach to professional wrestling.
MATCH #2 Abigail Lindsay vs Sayge Gonzalez
Abigail and Sayge circle each other as soon as the bell rings before Sayge charges at Abigail, looking for a hard clothesline that Lindsay ducked. As Gonzalez turned around, she was met with a hard spinning heel kick that sent the other woman stumbling back. Gonzalez leaned against the ropes for a split second before seeing Lindsay coming at her, causing her to drop down and pull the top rope with her. Abigail went over the rope, but she caught herself on the ring apron, meeting Sayge with a quick eye poke that the referee missed. Sayge stumbled away from the ropes, holding her eye, and Abigail jumped onto the ropes before jumping off, looking for New Eden! Gonzalez was able to dodge the springboard DDT only to execute a scoop slam once Abigail was back on her feet. Abigail’s back arched briefly, but she got back to her feet much to Sayge’s dismay. Lindsay went after Gonzalez, but Sayge was able to grab Abigail’s wrist and send her into the ropes, nailing her with a vicious European uppercut when the other woman came back at her.
Abigail hit the mat, holding her chin where the uppercut connected. She sent a glare in Sayge’s direction as she slammed her hand against the mat before pushing herself back up to her feet. Lindsay licked her lips as she watched Gonzalez for a second before charging towards her again, hitting her with a discus clothesline. Sayge fell to the mat, but Abigail wasn’t leaving her there as she pulled her up by the hair before whipping her into the corner. Lindsay went at Gonzalez for another discus clothesline, but Gonzalez ducked out of the way and charged at Lindsay, nailing her with a running shoulder tackle into the corner! Lindsay’s back slammed against the turnbuckles, a slight hiss escaping her lips though it quickly turned into a chuckle that came from the Kingdom member’s lips.Sayge went for a clothesline, but Abigail quickly grabbed the other woman’s arm and maneuvered herself on the ropes, locking in a rope-hung figure-four armlock. The referee began a count after giving Lindsay a few warnings, and the woman released the hold before the count could really get underway however the damage was done. Lindsay got back into the ring, hitting Taking A Ride then a brutal Serenity Now before she pinned Sayge.
ONE…!
TWO…!!
THREE…!!!
Abigail hit the mat, holding her chin where the uppercut connected. She sent a glare in Sayge’s direction as she slammed her hand against the mat before pushing herself back up to her feet. Lindsay licked her lips as she watched Gonzalez for a second before charging towards her again, hitting her with a discus clothesline. Sayge fell to the mat, but Abigail wasn’t leaving her there as she pulled her up by the hair before whipping her into the corner. Lindsay went at Gonzalez for another discus clothesline, but Gonzalez ducked out of the way and charged at Lindsay, nailing her with a running shoulder tackle into the corner! Lindsay’s back slammed against the turnbuckles, a slight hiss escaping her lips though it quickly turned into a chuckle that came from the Kingdom member’s lips.Sayge went for a clothesline, but Abigail quickly grabbed the other woman’s arm and maneuvered herself on the ropes, locking in a rope-hung figure-four armlock. The referee began a count after giving Lindsay a few warnings, and the woman released the hold before the count could really get underway however the damage was done. Lindsay got back into the ring, hitting Taking A Ride then a brutal Serenity Now before she pinned Sayge.
ONE…!
TWO…!!
THREE…!!!
WINNER Abigail Lindsay
The camera had panned to the interview area, but there was nobody there at first. Soon enough, Akane Yamashta had walked into the shot, a bright smile was on her face as she was holding the Endurance Championship over her shoulder. She took a second to fix her clothing, a full bright blue suit and matching pants with a darker blue dress shirt under the jacket. She kept her arm and hand comfortably around the title as she looked to the camera.
𝐀𝐊𝐀𝐍𝐄: ❝ Hello, Zion fans! Welcome to Wasteland! This is such a great show already, with some really nice people backstage. Now, I wanted to say a few things but I didn't want to take up time in the ring from the wrestlers here tonight, so I will say what I need to back here. First of all, you might be thinking to yourself that something is different. Yes, I am the Endurance Champion!❞
Akane laughed and grinned a little, raising her shoulder to show the camera the gold over her shoulder. She moved some of her hair out of her face before she would continue talking.
𝐀𝐊𝐀𝐍𝐄: ❝ You might be asking as well, how did you win it? Zion has been on holiday break? Yes, that's true. But, myself and Sean Parker had an amazing match at FCW’s Be The Fight 3. December 16th, I was able to defeat Mr. Parker, who I'm sure is going to see this eventually. Greetings, Sean! Thank you for such a great matchup, I had a lot of fun. I haven't had that much fun in so long. I know you want a chance to get this back, and I will simply tell you to name your time and place, my friend. I want to be like you were, and I want to defend this as often as I can. I was robbed of my championship in Pro Wrestling SHINE, but I know at least you have the honor and integrity to take this from me the right way, if you even can. I do plan on defending this with my life and my soul, and do anything that I can to keep this on my shoulder and around my waist.❞
Akane cleared her throat, then looked down to the floor for just a few moments. She adjusted the title on her shoulder so that it wouldn't fall off, her thumb rubbing against the main plate of the title.
𝐀𝐊𝐀𝐍𝐄: ❝ I cannot give myself every bit of credit for getting here, though. There are clearly other people that have helped me be able to do something like this. First of all, I'd like to thank Rio Kurokawa. Rio, I don't know if I would be as motivated as I am right now if we didn't have our past two matches together in SHINE. You do owe me, and both of us know that but this isn't the place or the company to entertain you, so I'm moving on. Next, I want to thank Hana Kaneko. You pulled me away from a dark place in my life and taught me what professional wrestling is outside of being a Deathmatch Wrestler, and I appreciate that. You are a dream opponent of mine, despite how we are currently on parallel paths. If they cross one day, I will be very excited. Finally, I want to give you some credit, Nami Megumi. Without our rivalry, I don't know if I would have any kind of credibility in Zion. I don't think anyone would even look at me seriously if our paths never crossed. As much as I hate you, I respect you too. I know you feel the same exact way. If we do meet in the ring again, I would love for it to be for this title on my shoulder.❞
Akane paused, scratching the back of her head with her free hand as she was looking around the backstage area for a quick moment.
𝐀𝐊𝐀𝐍𝐄: ❝ There's plenty of things that I want to do as Endurance Champion, and so many people I want to face. Whether you're from Queens or Chaos, The Kingdom, Genesis of Destruction, Mayhem, Fusion, Wasteland, I personally don't care. I know that the matchmakers will have the right mind to make the best possible matches for you fans to see. I will put everything into every single match that I wrestle in. You guys already know that I'm willing to bleed for this, because i’ve let a lot of blood spill just in Zion alone, and I'm willing to bleed even more. My fighting spirit will be on display every single time that I defend this, for all of you to see. I love wrestling for you fans and I love to fight anybody that thinks they can take me down from where I am. I am the Masochist Genius, and I'll happily show all of you how smart I really am when it comes to being in the ring! I hope to be back in the ring very soon. I'm not sure when, or against who, but you will surely see the power of the Masochist Genius! If you can't swim, don't get in the ring with me. You won't survive the Blood Shower!❞
Akane laughed as she pointed towards the camera, then pointed to the title belt on her shoulder. She then left the area, leaving the camera to buzz away.
MATCH #3 Thotline Miami vs The Williams Dynasty
Before the bell can sound, Oliver Peters makes his way out to the stage again, and announces that this contest will determine the first Wasteland Tag Team Champions! The crowd go crazy for this, and the two teams in the ring seem excited as well!
Emily Williams and Taylor Gibson start this match off for their respective teams, with the two immediately locking up off the bell! Emily seems to have this one in hand with a Wristlock, but Gibson reverses with one of her own before transitioning into a Hammerlock! She quickly takes Emily down, dropping her with a Hammerlock Suplex! She pulls Emily to her feet once again, this time setting her up for a Ripcord move! She pulls Emily in, but she reverses, getting around Gibson and dropping her with a German Suplex! She bridges for the pin, with Gibson kicking out at two!
Emily quickly tags in Brittany, before rushing in and dropping Gibson with a Basement Dropkick! Brittany uses this opening to her advantage, jumping to the second rope and planting Gibson with a Springboard Moonsault! She hooks the leg for a pin still only netting a two count from her! Brittany cinches in a Rear Chinlock, hoping to wear Gibson down! But Gibson fights back, twisting herself out of position before nailing Brittany with a few shots to the midsection! She quickly gets back into it, nailing Brittany with a Dropkick! She gets her with a second Dropkick! Brittany gets up, looking to get the jump on her, but this time, Gibson connects with an Enziguri! Pin by Gibson, only getting the two!
Gibson quickly crawls to her corner, tagging in Collins who comes in like a house of fire! She drops Brittany with a Shoulder Block! Brittany gets up, with Collins dropping her with another! She gets up again, this time with Collins taking her down with a Back Body Drop! Emily now tries to interject herself into the match again, only for Collins to catch her with a Back Body Drop as well! The two get to their feet, with Collins snatching them both back down with a Double Lariat! The duo get up again, this time looking for a Double Lariat of their own! But Collins rushes underneath it, hitting the ropes before nailing them with a Double Dropkick! She kips up to show off, before immediately going to pin Brittany for near fall!
Collins looks to finish this off, getting Brittany in position and looking for a Coast to Coast Dropkick! She sails through the air, only to be cut down by a Superkick from an intercepting Emily! Gibson quickly fights her back however, throwing her out of the ring before nailing her with a Suicide Dive! Collins looks to go back after Brittany, only to be planted with a Boom Headshot (Roundhouse Kick)! Nearfall by Brittany, with Collins just barely kicking out! Brittany takes to the top rope, looking for Hollywood Hills! But Collins gets the knees up, before pulling Brittany into position and tagging in Taylor Gibson! The two work together to bring her down, planting her with the Neon Expressway (Meltzer Driver)! Gibson goes for the pin and takes it home with the three count!
Emily Williams and Taylor Gibson start this match off for their respective teams, with the two immediately locking up off the bell! Emily seems to have this one in hand with a Wristlock, but Gibson reverses with one of her own before transitioning into a Hammerlock! She quickly takes Emily down, dropping her with a Hammerlock Suplex! She pulls Emily to her feet once again, this time setting her up for a Ripcord move! She pulls Emily in, but she reverses, getting around Gibson and dropping her with a German Suplex! She bridges for the pin, with Gibson kicking out at two!
Emily quickly tags in Brittany, before rushing in and dropping Gibson with a Basement Dropkick! Brittany uses this opening to her advantage, jumping to the second rope and planting Gibson with a Springboard Moonsault! She hooks the leg for a pin still only netting a two count from her! Brittany cinches in a Rear Chinlock, hoping to wear Gibson down! But Gibson fights back, twisting herself out of position before nailing Brittany with a few shots to the midsection! She quickly gets back into it, nailing Brittany with a Dropkick! She gets her with a second Dropkick! Brittany gets up, looking to get the jump on her, but this time, Gibson connects with an Enziguri! Pin by Gibson, only getting the two!
Gibson quickly crawls to her corner, tagging in Collins who comes in like a house of fire! She drops Brittany with a Shoulder Block! Brittany gets up, with Collins dropping her with another! She gets up again, this time with Collins taking her down with a Back Body Drop! Emily now tries to interject herself into the match again, only for Collins to catch her with a Back Body Drop as well! The two get to their feet, with Collins snatching them both back down with a Double Lariat! The duo get up again, this time looking for a Double Lariat of their own! But Collins rushes underneath it, hitting the ropes before nailing them with a Double Dropkick! She kips up to show off, before immediately going to pin Brittany for near fall!
Collins looks to finish this off, getting Brittany in position and looking for a Coast to Coast Dropkick! She sails through the air, only to be cut down by a Superkick from an intercepting Emily! Gibson quickly fights her back however, throwing her out of the ring before nailing her with a Suicide Dive! Collins looks to go back after Brittany, only to be planted with a Boom Headshot (Roundhouse Kick)! Nearfall by Brittany, with Collins just barely kicking out! Brittany takes to the top rope, looking for Hollywood Hills! But Collins gets the knees up, before pulling Brittany into position and tagging in Taylor Gibson! The two work together to bring her down, planting her with the Neon Expressway (Meltzer Driver)! Gibson goes for the pin and takes it home with the three count!
As the bell rings, Thotline Miami are handed the new Wasteland Championship Belts... but their celebration is short lived, as Werner and Dietrich Kühn jump them from behind! The pair collectively known as Schadenfreude begin to put the boots to the newly crowned champions, making their intentions clear and their targets known!
WINNERS Thotline Miami (#ANDNEW)
MATCH #4 Sean Parker vs Sakura Matsuda
Sean and Sakura shook hands after the bell sounded, the two showing one another respect before they circled one another. Sakura knew that a traditional lock-up wouldn’t work in her favor considering the height difference between the two, so she used her speed to hit a swift running dropkick on Parker. The impact sent him stumbling back some, but it didn’t take him off of his feet, and Matsuda came at him with a springboard forearm smash, sending him stumbling again. Sakura was frustrated but shook her head, knowing she needed to stay focused in the match in order to continue trying to take Parker down, but the brief frustration was all it took for Sean to get a leg up, so to say. He nailed her with a hard snap German suplex, sending her crashing to the mat hard. Her body arched a bit, but she got back to her feet, determination written on her face as she stood toe-to-toe with Parker as best as she could. He hit her with a standing dropkick, sending her stumbling back into the corner where he followed.
Sean made to grab her to set up for a Michinoku driver, but she was quick to nail him with a European uppercut that had surprising strength behind it. With Parker holding his jaw from the hit, Matsuda nailed Sean with a missile dropkick, the power behind the move sending him falling back. She quickly climbed the ropes, wanting to finish the match as soon as possible, but as she leaped off of the top to try and hit Eagle Dive, Sean rolled out of the way, causing her to crash to the mat hard. Sakura cried out as she grabbed her elbow, but Sean didn’t give her long to think about it before he launched himself up and onto her with a standing moonsault. With Sakura down, Sean climbed to the top rope where he took one final glance at the downed woman. With that, he leaped off of the top, hitting a vicious Highway to Hyrule before he pinned Matsuda.
ONE…!
TWO…!!
THREE…!!!
Sean made to grab her to set up for a Michinoku driver, but she was quick to nail him with a European uppercut that had surprising strength behind it. With Parker holding his jaw from the hit, Matsuda nailed Sean with a missile dropkick, the power behind the move sending him falling back. She quickly climbed the ropes, wanting to finish the match as soon as possible, but as she leaped off of the top to try and hit Eagle Dive, Sean rolled out of the way, causing her to crash to the mat hard. Sakura cried out as she grabbed her elbow, but Sean didn’t give her long to think about it before he launched himself up and onto her with a standing moonsault. With Sakura down, Sean climbed to the top rope where he took one final glance at the downed woman. With that, he leaped off of the top, hitting a vicious Highway to Hyrule before he pinned Matsuda.
ONE…!
TWO…!!
THREE…!!!
We cut backstage to find James Crosbie standing by with a microphone in his hand and a smile on his face.
James Crosbie: Ladies and gentlemen, please welcome my guests at this time, the tag team of Dietrich and Werner Kühn, Schadenfreude!
The camera pans out a little to reveal Dietrich and Werner Kühn along with their manager, Heidi Krauss standing beside the interviewer.
James Crosbie: Gentlemen--
Suddenly Werner quickly raises his index finger up to cut Crosbie off.
Werner Kühn: Silence, you unwissender Narr. How DARE you refuse to acknowledge the lady in your presence! The great Heidi Krauss!
James Crosbie: My apologies. Ladies and gentlemen, please also welcome alongside Schadenfreude, their manager Heidi Krauss.
Werner nods.
Werner Kühn: Proceed.
James Crosbie: Well gentlemen, tonight we saw you assault Thotline Miami after they defeated The Williams Dynasty to become the inaugural Tag Team Champions. So my question to you is… why?
Dietrich Kühn: Why? Ist es nicht offensichtlich? Mein Bruder und ich have come here to Zion Wrestling to help restore professional wrestling to its former glory. Thotline Miami are part of that problem and now they are parading around here as Tag Team Champions? Sie sind eine Peinlichkeit für unseren Sport!
Heidi shook her head, clicking her tongue against the roof of her mouth for a moment. She glanced between her husband and brother-in-law for a moment before turning her gaze to Crosbie.
Heidi Krauss: Wrestling is not about parading around, acting like silly children. It is meant to be a respected sport, and these kinder are making a mockery of it. Werner and Dietrich...
Heidi paused for a moment, looking between the two men again before continuing, a smirk on her face as she did.
Heidi Krauss: These two men are prime examples of what wrestling is supposed to be. Tonight was simply… ein Beispiel of what is to come.
The interviewer looks as if he’s about to ask another question, however Werner takes hold of the microphone Crosbie is holding and lifts it up to his lips.
Werner Kühn: Lang lebe Schadenfreude.
Werner then releases his grip on the microphone and gives the interviewer a disgusted scowl before the trio then walk away off camera as we cut elsewhere
Zion’s camera crew locates interviewer, Amy Porter, backstage as she stands with Fusion’s Yumi Akiyama. The rookie who debuted last year stands ready in her gear at Gorilla, keeping light on her feet.
Amy Porter: ”Ladies and gentlemen, hello and welcome, again, to the first episode of Wasteland! I’m here with Yumi Akiyama, just moments away from her upcoming contest against Trey Wilde. Yumi, it’s your first wrestling match of the year 2024. You seem like you’re feeling pretty good right now.”
Yumi Akiyama: ”I feel great, Amy! I spent a lot of time after War Games preparing for my comeback. 2023 didn’t end on much of a high note for me, but as cliche as it sounds, new year, new me, right? Except not so much the new me part. I’m not changing how I do things. I’m coming into 2024 with the same drive I did when I first stepped into a Zion Wrestling ring.”
Amy Porter: ”Determined as ever, Yumi. I think that’s what endears you to the fans. Tonight, you’re stepping into the ring against an opponent you’ve never faced before. Trey Wilde. How do you prepare against an opponent like him?”
Yumi just gives a shrug and a smile.
Yumi Akiyama: ”I’ve got nothing but respect for Trey, based on what I know of him. He’s got just as much promise as I do here and we both like to fly. We’re both hungry for a win and winning your first match of the year can go a long way. All I can say at this point is, let the best wrestler tonight win and whoever doesn’t? They keep their head up and press on.”
Amy Porter: ”Admirable outlook! Looking back on War Games, you did come close to winning the Viral Championship. Many would argue that you’re climbing the ranks of contenders. What do you have to say to anyone that might be doubting you at this point?”
Yumi starts to open her mouth to speak when, out in the arena, her music hits. She looks to the curtain, then back to the camera where she brings a victory sign with her fingers up beside her head.
Yumi Akiyama: ”Here Comes Yumi!”
Without another word, she throws her hood up and steps through the curtain. Amy Porter watches her go, looks back to the camera with a shrug.
Amy Porter: ”Here she comes, Zion!”
MATCH #5 Trey Wilde vs Yumi Akiyama
Trey didn’t waste time in getting the match started, hitting Yumi with a Capoeira kick in the start of the match, sending the smaller woman down. She was quick back to her feet, running at Trey only to hit him with a running dropkick that sent him a few steps back. She came at him with a roundhouse kick, nailing him square in the underside of his chin with it, and the kick caused Trey to end up against the ropes. Yumi grabbed him by the wrist and whipped him into the corner, running after him to hit a running body splash. Wilde was able to get out of the way just in time which led to Akiyama slamming against the turnbuckles instead! She grabbed her chest as she leaned against the turnbuckles for a second, but the moment was enough for Wilde to launch himself off of the ropes for a springboard spinning kick! The impact from the kick caused Yumi to lose her breath.
As Wilde got back to his feet, Akiyama took a few deep breaths before she pushed herself out of the corner, trying to get back into the match. She was met with an attempted pump kick, but she was able to duck under Trey’s leg before grabbing him and nailing a reverse snap suplex, sending him crashing down to the mat. She quickly got back to her feet and went for a standing moonsault, but Trey was able to get his knees up causing Yumi to collide with them instead. She rolled away from Wilde in some pain from the thwarting of her move, and Wilde sought to take advantage of the situation by getting her up before hitting her with a brutal blue thunder bomb. With Akiyama down, Wilde climbed to the top turnbuckle before leaping off into Wilde Ride, hitting the move and going for the pin!
ONE…!
TWO…!!
THREE…!!!
As Wilde got back to his feet, Akiyama took a few deep breaths before she pushed herself out of the corner, trying to get back into the match. She was met with an attempted pump kick, but she was able to duck under Trey’s leg before grabbing him and nailing a reverse snap suplex, sending him crashing down to the mat. She quickly got back to her feet and went for a standing moonsault, but Trey was able to get his knees up causing Yumi to collide with them instead. She rolled away from Wilde in some pain from the thwarting of her move, and Wilde sought to take advantage of the situation by getting her up before hitting her with a brutal blue thunder bomb. With Akiyama down, Wilde climbed to the top turnbuckle before leaping off into Wilde Ride, hitting the move and going for the pin!
ONE…!
TWO…!!
THREE…!!!
We cut to the backstage area. It is there that the cameras catch up with The MVP of Zion, Aubrianna Powers. The arrogant Powers isn’t in her usual good mood. Then again, last time she was in a ZION ring was for a hell in a cell match that she lost. Nevertheless, despite the setback, The Most Valuable Powers finds himself in a position to turn things around for herself and Trinity in a big way.
Aubrianna Powers: “No pomp and circumstance tonight, losers. None of that crap. The fact is that I stand here tonight realizing just how much management takes me for granted. Do any of you idiots know just who the hell I am? I am Aubrianna Powers. I am not just a valuable player but the single MOST VALUABLE PLAYER in this sport!”
She smirks.
Aubrianna Powers: Does it sound arrogant? Don’t like the arrogance? Tough. Deal with it. I was born into a family of wrestlers. My older brothers were both champions and they trained me, they taught me everything I know, and when the time came for me to follow in their footsteps I not only lived up to expectations, I superseded them. I quickly became better than they ever could have hoped to be. That is why I call myself The Most Valuable Powers. People scoff at the notion of my greatness and yet I constantly prove them all wrong. Global Championship Wrestling doubted me, I won their grand slam quicker than anyone else in the company’s history. ZION doubted me, but you know who didn’t doubt me? You know who looked at me and recognized my greatness?
The MVP nods her head.
Aubrianna Powers: Trinity. They brought me in and gave me a chance when ZION wouldn’t. I brought the National Championship and Trios Championship to Trinity and in the process gave ZION memories it will never forget. What do I get in return? I get a hell in a cell match against that moron Theresa Morgan. I’m expected to sacrifice my sexy gorgeous body, I am expected to risk years of my career in one of the most dangerous matches ever. That’s what ZION thinks of its MVP.
Powers sneers.
Aubrianna Powers: Yet here I am, at Wasteland, set up in a ZION Championship match against Morgan Payne. Am I supposed to be grateful? All I feel is insulted that it took this long. I also feel offended because I know that I am being set up for failure. ZION doesn’t expect me to win. None of you idiots expect me to win.
She shakes her head.
Aubrianna Powers: I don’t need your support. I don’t need your pity. Because I know that am The Most Valuable Powers. I know that I am one of the best strikers and submission specialists on this damn roster. Hell in a Cell? Any of that garbage hardcore crap? That’s not my style. But a standard match? That is my turf! And Morgan Payne had no goddamn idea what she is getting herself into.
The MVP points a finger at the camera.
Aubrianna Powers: Overlook me at your own peril, Morgan, because every arrogant egotistical word that comes out of my mouth is backed up inside that ring. You want to defend that championship on the first event of 2024? I’ll happily make it your first and last title defense of 2024 because I am going to win the ZION championship and bring your stupid little kingdom to an end. Tonight, Morgan, the kingdom ends and the reign of Trinity begins again.
Powers winks at the camera.
Aubrianna Powers: You can all just learn to love it, bitches.
MAIN EVENT
Aubrianna Powers vs Morgan Payne ©
ZION WRESTLING GLOBAL HEAVYWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP MATCH
The bell rings as Powers and Payne begin to lock up! They struggle for control, so much so that they grapple into the corner! Powers has the initial advantage, pushing Payne back into the corner as the referee threatens a five count on her! She backs off, but not before giving Payne a smack to the face! The Global Heavyweight Champion just stands there with a wicked smile, almost definitely snickering at how she intends to get Powers back for the disrespect! For now, however, the two lock back up in the middle of the ring, this time with Payne getting control as she pushes Powers back into the corner! The two are once again split up by the referee, this time with Payne cocking her arm back for a swing! Powers flinches with Payne giving her a condescending head pat to embarrass her further!
The two shuffle the ring around each other once more! But this time Powers is fed up with Payne, quickly going in and nailing her with a Spinning Back Elbow! She goes for the pin!
ONE…!
TWO…!
Kick out by Payne! Powers wrangles her in, getting her into a Rear Chinlock! But Payne is quickly able to reverse, pulling herself up to her feet before nailing Powers with a few Elbows to the midsection! She throws her off her back with a Hip Toss before quickly connecting with a Dropkick as she attempts to get up! Powers pulls herself back to her feet again, this time looking for a Lariat! But Payne ducks underneath it, before looking for a Back Suplex! Powers lands on her feet, pushing Payne into the ropes from behind and looking to drag her down for an O’Connor Roll! But Payne hooks her arms on the top rope, pushing Powers off before coming at her as she sits on the mat with a Penalty Kick! Powers ducks underneath that however, pulling Payne to the mat with a Schoolboy Roll Up!
ONE…!
TWO…!
Kick out by Payne again! Powers gets right back on the offensive, connecting with a Dropkick straight to the champion! Payne falls back into the corner, with Powers rushing in and looking to strike! Payne is able to get a boot up to reverse, however, propping herself up to the second rope before coming down with a Diving Clothesline! Powers pulls herself up to her feet, coming back towards Payne only to take a Back Body Drop for her trouble! Payne shows off her incredible strength now, getting Powers in position before pulling straight from the mat and up into position for a Vertical Suplex! Payne floats over for the pin!
ONE…!
TWO…!
Kick out by Powers! Payne looks to put the stamp on this one now, waiting for Powers to make it back to her feet before hitting the ropes, possibly looking for The Faded Line! But Powers is able to make a comeback, rushing Payne as she approaches with a Spear! Powers gets to her feet, quickly climbing to the top rope and dropping onto Payne with a 450 Splash! Pin by Powers!
ONE…!
TWO…!
THRE-
Kick out by Payne! Powers is frustrated now, but doesn’t let it deter her! She stands next to Payne’s prone body, placing a foot beneath her chin as she slowly guides her up to her feet! She launches off, looking to connect with the Most Valuable Kick! But Payne ducks underneath it, quickly catching Powers off guard with The Art of Ruin! Stunner connects! Payne with the pin!
ONE…!
TWO…!
THREE-
Kick out by Powers! Payne looks to finish her off, getting her up for Dahntahn After Dahk! But Powers fights back dirty, raking the eyes of the champion in a bid for her to let her down! Powers quickly seizes the gap, nailing Payne with the Most Valuable Kick! Reverse Roundhouse connects! Payne is left staggering, with Powers going for the ropes before she goes down! She jumps to the second rope, looking for Simply The Best Moonsault! But she fails to notice that Payne is still on her feet! Payne grabs Powers right off the second rope, getting her into position before dropping her with Dahntahn After Dahk! Burning Hammer connects! Pin by Payne!
ONE…!
TWO…!
THREE!!
WINNER Morgan Payne (#ANDSTILL!)
