Post by Kai Morgan on Jan 2, 2023 22:20:21 GMT
We open up to a Zion ring stationed in the center of a bustling Times Square! Fans are packed behind the barricade, with people even making their presence known from balconies as they look to see the action below! The band, HEALTH, who made the theme song for tonight’s event is setting up at the top of the stage as they’re announced on!
Vivian Blake: Please welcome…HEALTH!!
And now…Zion Wrestling Presents…Mayhem: New Year’s Revolution!
Following the live performance, we cut to the ringside area, with Winter Mae and Trick Morrison standing next to the ring!
Winter Mae: After a long wait, we are finally back with some Zion action! We hope you had a happy holiday and New Year, but right now we welcome you…to Mayhem: New Year’s Revolution! I’m Winter Mae, joined as always by my broadcast partner, Trick Morrison!
Trick Morrison: I’m happy to ring in the New Year right here in the heart of New York City! We have a huge show lined up for you tonight! Let’s get down to it!
The scene opens up backstage inside the office of Katrina Lopez. She is dressed to the nine, looking stylish per usual. Sitting on the other side of the desk wearing a sparkling green dress is ISIS. We’re not used to seeing ISIS outside of her ring gear, if you count Twitter on the rare occasion she shows off her body. The two alpha females give each other a non commitment glaces.
ISIS: “I am not here to take up too much of your time. I’d like to know what was the special opportunity I secured when I beat Reo on the last Mayhem before Christmas break? Good thing he lost. We both know he would have wasted what is in store for him. Unlike the old man, I won’t fail. What do you have in mind for me, Katrina? Or do you prefer Ms. Lopez?”
Katrina Lopez: Please, call me Katrina. And I expected you’d be coming to me. I expect a lot of people to have questions for me now that I’ve returned from my injury absence. With your win over Reo, I’ve decided to award you a very unique opportunity. One that crosses the imaginary boundaries that separate our brands. I’m giving you the opportunity to have a universal open contract. That means you can challenge any champion on any brand at a time and place of your choosing. I’ve had my eye on you for some time and, well, I think you’ve earned this type of opportunity.
ISIS eyes light up. This is a rare moment. Usually ISIS is stoic or she’s so into the destruction she inflicts it appears she enjoys it more than she’s letting on. A smirk flashes across her face.
ISIS: “So any champion in this company is fair game? ”
ISIS stands up. She gives Katrina a nod, letting her know she appreciates the power she has been given.
ISIS: “Whoevers championship I decide to claim as my own, they’ll only have fate to blame. Thanks Katrina. I won’t waste this.”
Katrina smiles and nods back. ISIS turns around. She leaves Katrina alone in her office as the scene fades to black.
The scene cuts backstage as an annoyed Reo Ojima is seen tapping his wrist up with white tape. Reo knows the camera is there but he just doesn’t care to look at it as he addresses it in his native Japanese. Luckily for the English viewers at home there are English subtitles.
Reo Ojima: It’s 2023 and it’s the same shit here in Zion as it was in 2022. Lazy booking, paper Champions, and catering is mostly garbage. I’ve done my best to improve this place but no one wants to listen. Waste of my time. Keep on pushing the carbon copies who don’t know the difference between a wrist lock and an ankle lock. Only thing keeping me around are the few friends that I’ve made at the bar after the shows.
One wrist is done as he motions his wrist around to make sure it’s comfortably. Onto the next wrist as Reo goes back to talking.
Reo Ojima: The National Title opportunity was nice. It’s a shot at a title that’s been out of my grasp for awhile. Plus it gives me an opportunity to bring the National Title back to Peters and assure him it’s in good hands. But then I look and see who’s in the match with me and I can’t help but be disappointed. Who the fuck is Carmen Leija? Chris Matthews hasn’t been relevant for years? Valentina Skye? Reina Mendoza? Can you tell me what any of these wrestlers have done in the past month? 5 months? Year? Their resume is barely readable and yet they get a title opportunity? What did they do to be in this match?
Reo bites his lip as he does his best to keep his anger under control.
Reo Ojima: I have two titles in my possession. Top wrestler in the multiple promotions that I’m in. Close to thirty years in this business. And yet I have to earn a right to face for the National Title against these jabronies? Worst part, the best and most deserving might not win. I could hit one of these jabronis with my finisher, I go for the pin, and then another mouth breather comes up from behind, kicks me out and they get the pin for the win.
The other wrist is done and Reo tosses the tap into his duffle bag. Reo lets out a big sigh as he reaches out and grabs a nearby lit cigar.
Reo Ojima: Wrestling can be fucked up. Cruel. Hopefully the wrestling Gods will smile on me. Either way, I’m drinking after the match.
Reo puts the cigar in his mouth and goes back to getting ready for his match as the scene goes to commercial.
Vivian Blake: The following contest…is scheduled for one fall!
Crowd: ONE FALL!
Vivian Blake: And is for the BRKTHRU! CHAMPIONSHIP!
Introducing first, the challenger…from Shreveport. Louisiana…weighing in at 144 lbs…Thalia! Starks!
And her opponent…from Lancaster, Pennsylvania…weighing in at 210 lbs…he is the BRKTHRU! CHAMPION!...ELIJAH! COPELAND!
Elijah And Thalia tie up with each other, as Elijah gets the upper hand with an obvious size advantage, grounding her early on with a side headlock takedown. Thalia escaped with a headscissors, as she started to go to the ropes for a shotgun dropkick, that knocked him down, and followed up with a standing moonsault and a cover.
ONE…!
TWO…!
Copeland kicked out, as Thalia goes to clutch his neck for a gator roll to disorient him. She gets up, looking for a brainbuster, but, Elijah strikes her in the head with a rising knee to free himself. He then followed up with a low kick to her calf to make Thalia buckle, and then a superkick to follow up. He smugly looked down at her with a shit-eating grin, before placing a boot on her chest and flexing.
ONE…!
Not taking the disrespect, Thalia would roll him up with an ankle lock. Before she could drop into a grapevine, Elijah rolled through to make her stumble to the corner, and she hits the turnbuckle. He attempted a roll-up, but, let the hold go early to hit her with another superkick, and then a proper cover.
ONE…!
TWO…!
No! Thalia kicked out, as Elijah would stomp her while she was down. He would get her up to her knees, and clipped her in the back of the head with an axe kick, as he taunted to the crowd to get some boos from the crowd. Elijah would set Thalia up for the Philly Special, but, she shoved him back. He goes for a clothesline, but, Thalia ducked it and keeps up her momentum before hitting a Rolling wheel kick to knock him down. He gets up, and is whipped to the corner and hit with a corner splash! Thalia would transition him down with a hip toss, as she was looking to go to the top rope. She tucked her arms in, looking for a coffin drop, but, Elijah popped up to hit her with an Avalanche German Suplex, as the crowd gives a massive pop for the move. Thalia is reeling from the move, having taken a lot of damage from it, while Elijah isn't unscathed, as he is also a bit slow to get up. The official would check on Thalia, which gives Elijah time to bring out a secret weapon, brass knuckles that he had smuggled in. Thalia would get to her feet, as Elijah would blast her with a powerful shot to the face with the ref missing the illegal weapon. He covered Thalia, while slinging the knucks outside the ring, as she was covered.
ONE…!
TWO…!
THREE!!
Vivian Blake
"Here is your winner, and still! The BRKTHRU Champion! Elijah! Copeland!"
He raised his arms up with the crowd having a mixed reaction to his victory, before "Reborn Through Failure" played, as we see Chelsea Skye making her way to the ring, as she had a verbal exchange with Elijah, before it turned into a brawl between the two. Both scrap with each other, as Elijah goes for a high kick, but Chelsea would duck and hits the Angel's Reckoning on him, as he rolled out of the ring and would retreat up the ramp. Thalia was slowly getting to her feet, as Chelsea approached her, and out of a knee-jerk reaction, Thalia hits Chelsea with a strange purple mist that makes contact with her eyes and open mouth. She shrieked from the move, while Thalia would stay back and study her, as Chelsea sees Elijah heading to the back, but, it isn't what she had seen.
Chelsea Skye
"Wait… what are you doing here? What are you doing to her?!"
Chelsea said in a panic, as she watched in horror, before starting to frantically head up the ramp, as Elijah would see her chasing him and run faster, with both fleeing Thalia, as the camera panned on her, the Mist's remnants still on her face, as she gives off a wicked smile.
WINNER: ELIJAH COPELAND (#ANDSTILL)
RESULT: PINFALL
At the Yellow Rose Saloon, we see both Sadie and Jane drinking their sorrow away. "Peaceful Easy Feeling" by The Eagles is playing on the jukebox in the background, as they look at the empty cases where their ACE tag titles once were. They were the ones meant to be taking the tag world by storm, however in the triple threat tag over there, Thotline Miami has won their titles after pinning the Misfits, and it had sunk them into a deep depression.
Sadie Cassidy
"Everything was out of our hands. We couldn't do anything about it, since we couldn't pin Taylor or Cindy."
Jane Adler
"That's beyond the point… it should have never ended so soon. I hate this…"
She said, as you could hear the head trainer of the Star Factory, and their mentor, Josie Wales walking in at the background with a jangle to her spurs as she goes to pour herself a drink while they sulk.
Sadie Cassidy
"Me too… never felt so low before."
Jane Adler
"Don't be so glum, we can do this, Sadie! All we gotta do is…"
NO SLEEP 'TIL!!!!
Abruptly, the jukebox would begin to play "No Sleep Til Brooklyn" by The Beastie Boys quite loudly, with a pop from the crowd. We see Sayge Gonzalez having hacked into the Jukebox to change the song and volume, whilst they toast their beers as the local girls had beaten some other local girls in a dark match. Jane and Sadie would confront them for causing a disturbance in their bar.
Jane Adler
"Hey, this isn't some kind of Honky-Tonk!"
Sadie Cassidy
"We don't take requests, either! Turn it down!"
Austin St. Croix
"We're just tryna relax after a long night, you gotta chill!"
Sayge Gonzalez
"Besides, I hate the fuckin' Eagles, man!"
She said, with a laugh from some of the audience watching in the crowd tonight. The girls would inaudibly argue with each other, until the jukebox is abruptly unplugged, as we're interrupted with a stern, almost motherly shout.
Josie Wales
"Enough!!!"
She stated, having enough of their antics, as Josie makes her way to Jane and Sadie, turning them around.
Josie Wales
"You two should be striking fear into the hearts of the wicked! But, you've been letting lesser teams surpass you, making a mockery of tag team wrestling! In fact, you seem to care more about this shithole than going out and fighting!"
She said, as we get a wideshot of the Saloon briefly, as their version of it in ACE is a lot more detailed since it's in a fixed position, while their traveling one is a bit barebones.
Jane Adler
"Hey, c'mon, we're doing a service here…"
Josie Wales
"Your service is supposed to be protecting the innocent. Meanwhile, there has been an invasion from a whole other company, and numerous people battered under your "watch", Jane. Now, the way I used to handle business, when some loud mouth Yankees come rolling in to start trouble…"
Austin St. Croix
"Scuse me?!"
Austin said, bowing up to Josie, as she quickly commented back to her.
Josie Wales
"If you ever wanna go, meet me down under at XIX."
She said, quickly brushing Austin off, as Josie continued to berate her girls.
Josie Wales
"Now, before I was rudely interrupted… we would have a good ol fashioned bar fight! So next week, you make sure to shine this place up real nice… I'm going to have a chat with management and let you both settle this properly…"
Josie said, as she would start to walk out through the Saloon doors, as the Datadames and Regulators, Incorporated stared at each other briefly. The Dames would make their way out of the Saloon as well, with the camera focusing on Jane and Sadie, before fading out.
In the back, we see Valentina Skye standing in the Trinity Lockeroom. There is nobody around her as she is by herself. Valentina looks at the camera and smirks.
Valentina Skye: Tonight happens to be the night I kick off 2023 on the RIGHT note.
She smirks and flips her now brown hair.
Valentina Skye: Last year was a big improvement from the horrible and dreaded 2021 I had, but this year? It’s going to be bigger, BADDER, SPICY and hotter than before and tonight, I am going to make that happen!
She keeps on smirking
Valentina Skye: Tonight, I happen to be in a Gauntlet elimination match to determine who will be the number one contender to the National Championship that my stablemate and Trinity’ finest, Aubrianna Powers, is currently holding right now. Yes, I know, we are a GROUP, but I need to put the friendship to the side.
Valentina keeps a straight eye on the camera.
Valentina Skye: I have to get through five other people, who are not worthy of my time. They shouldn’t be in this match up….AT ALL! I should be the ONLY one getting this shot!
She gets madder by the second.
Valentina Skye: If I have to go through this match, then SO BE IT! I plan on going in, and coming out as the number one contender to the National Championship and facing off against Aubrianna, THEN I WILL!
She takes a step back.
Valentina Skye: Watch and see what happens!
She leaves and walks to her match
MATCH #2: RYAN PETERS VS THE BALL
Peters immediately goes after The Ball off the bell, sweeping him to the mat with a Chop Block! He begins to mount the poor jobber with a heavy set of Elbows and Forearms! The Ball is nearly bludgeoned by this point, with Peters pulling him up by the arm and catching him out of midair to drop him with a Northern Lights Suplex! He stands over The Ball, who is now trying to crawl away, much to his delight! Peters hits the ropes, nailing him with Stay Fucked (Curb Stomp), before pulling him up again and nailing him with the Redemption Arc (Rolling Wheel Kick)! He goes for the pin, but before the referee’s hand could land at the end of the three count, Peters pulls The Ball out, smiling to the crowd before instead opting to finish him off with an Inverted Figure 4 Leg Lock! The same move that took out his own father! The Ball caves, almost immediately tapping out!
Vivian Blake: The winner of this match…Ryan! Peters!
Winter Mae: A vicious win tonight by Ryan Peters in his official Mayhem debut!
Trick Morrison: Already proving that he’s better than his old man! What a statement!
Peters stands confidently following his victory, placing a foot on the chest of his fallen adversary as we fade.
WINNER: RYAN PETERS
RESULT: SUBMISSION
WAIT!! NO!! Just then, Peters is grabbed from behind! He struggles, but eventually succumbs to the hold being placed on him, falling to the mat to reveal SAMUEL LOPEZ as the culprit!
Trick Morrison: What the hell is that madman doing here?!
Winter Mae: Possibly taking revenge for Ryan’s behavior before our broadcasting break! It seems Lopez never forgot!
Lopez kneels besides an unconscious Peters, staring daggers into him as we fade!
Nami leads Maki in front of the camera before Nami starts to say something but Maki seems to stop her and push Nami behind her back. Confused but in the end she lets Maki do what she wants.
Maki Megumi: As you all know The Meguism lost to Rock Candy and started 2023 with nothing but this is not what I expected, Zion Wrestling Tag Team Champion is mine and it has always been mine. But in the end I lost but it's not my fault. It's Nami's fault, it's Nami's fault that I'm going to lose. She didn't even follow our plan. Can you blame me for doing my best to defend the title? No, I did everything while Nami didn't even try to prove she wanted to defend her championship, now I know what Meguism's weaknesses are because every time we win it's because of me. I've been carrying Nami since day one. That we are Meguism, and if tonight Nami still can't prove that she's really stronger. It's disappointing to say that I'm going to have to go through the worst with her to get the best out of Nami Megumi, or maybe she's no longer a good fit to work with me. Hope I can see something good from my sister tonight. and hopefully it will be one more time for me to win.
Nami looks at her sister in confusion as to why Maki would say that to her. Maki turns to look at Nami with a disappointed look in her eyes before she shakes her head before walking away from the camera and leaving Nami standing. Alone in front of the camera, Nami watches Maki walk away before looking back at the camera once more before she begins to speak.
Nami Megumi: I don't know why Maki would say something that shouldn't be said right now. It's a bit confusing to me, but right now I'm not going to find out what's going on. I look forward to tonight's match facing Rock Candy again. It's not an easy match for me but my goal is to win this match and be champion again. December wasn't what I wanted, the stories flooded me. But I look forward to doing my best in this match and proving that it wasn't my fault that Megumi lost the championship but on the other hand it would be another time for Meguism to become champion because of me. I know Maki doesn't trust me now but I'll prove that from that day I was defeated. And I want to show that what Maki said is totally wrong. I'm still determined to lead Meguism to success and I'm not Meguism's weakness. I don't know what would happen if Maki wanted to let go of me now. But I want to show how committed I am to our team. I believe in Maki. So tonight I'm gonna take back the champion that was mine.
Nami Megumi finish her words before leave and camera fade to black and cut into the commercial.
Times Square is filled with anticipation as tourists and spectators crowd the barricades set up around the Zion ring and giant sound system speakers set up for the event. The speakers crackle to life with a familiar voice.
Vivian Blake: Ladies and gentlemen, our next bout is for the Zion Tag Team Championship. Coming to the ring first, at a combined weight of two hundred twenty-five pounds, they are the former Zion Tag Champions… MEGUISM!”
A spotlight hits the entrance of M&M World as Nami and Maki Megumi leave the building, evil grins on their faces. Nami raises what looks like a t-shirt cannon onto her shoulder as Maki pours a giant sack of the candies into. Immediately, Nami fires the sweets into the crowd, pelting bystanders in the face and eliciting shocked screams of pain.
The Megumis enter the ring, continuing to both bite and disrespect Razzles’ gimmick while shooting hard candies into the crowd. The referee attempts to remove the bazooka from Nami but Maki interferes, arguing he has no authority before the bell rings.
Vivian Blake: And coming to the ring now, the Zion Tag Team Champions. At a combined weight of two hundred thirty pounds… ROCK CANDY!
The crowd is forcefully parted by security as Razzles Mars and Diamond Steele appear from the entrance of Radio City Music Hall, belts over their shoulders. The two raise each other’s arms to some of Diamond’s own music, although the prattle of the crowd mutes the music. The two run to the ring...
Just in time for a rock candy and M&M blast from Nami’s bazooka, right into their faces. The women shield themselves as best they can – dropping their belts in the process - but the confections momentarily blind them. And that’s when the Megumis act. Maki bounds to the ropes, hopping onto the top rope and leaping off, delivering a double axe handle to Diamond’s skull. Nami slides out of the ring and puts the muzzle of the weapon to Razzles’ face.
“Open wide,” Nami giggles as she fires. Razzles cries out as her beloved candy betrays her, pelting her painfully. With that, Nami bashes the pvc barrel over Mars’ head and shoves her into the ring, just in time for the bell.
Nami shoves Zion’s favorite sweetheart into the ring and follows afterwards. She immediately goes for a pin and the referee starts his count.
One…
Two…
THRE--
Razzles breaks free, shaking off the sneak attack and joining the match. Nami, not here for it, rakes Razzles eyes and goes in for a choke. The official instantly begins a count as Nami shoves Razzles to the mat in her strangulation. It’s only when the zebra yells, “Four,” that she realizes the count is on her and not a pin. With no lack of annoyance, Nami breaks the hold and the ref chides her. She rolls her eyes as she grabs handfuls of pink hair and hauls the Candy Queen up, but Razzles has other plans and rams her elbow into Nami’s midsection. Nami stops, grunting and folding forward, just in time for Razzles to slam a forearm into her mouth and throw her to the ropes.
Meanwhile, outside, Maki has been hammering away mercilessly on Diamond and screaming about hers and Nami’s belts. Diamond is slowly coming out of her daze just in time to a kick across the jaw, sending her tumbling into the steel steps. Maki rushes at her, hauling back for a punch, but the singer deftly evades and Maki only punches the steps. Maki reels back, swearing louder, but not before Diamond sweeps her legs from under her. Kipping up, Diamond proceeds to stomp a mudhole into Maki, who can barely shield herself. Maki finally pulls herself away, retreating around the ring to her corner. Diamond considered giving chase, but instead goes to her corner to watch Razzles.
Back in the ring, Razzles whips Nami to the ropes, catching her with a boot to the chin on the rebound. Quickly, the Sugary Sweetheart goes for a cover as Nami falls flat, but the Megumi bucks before there’s even a one. Razzles rises, kicking Nami in the head as she does, then goes to Diamond to tag her. Diamond pulls herself on top of the ring post as Razzles returns to Nami. Mars pulls Megumi up and lifts her up vertically, almost for a suplex, when Diamond leaps off the post and delivers a dropkick to her. Nami flies across the ring as Diamond rolls up. Maki steps into the ring immediately and approaches Diamond but Steele reminds the referee there was no tag between the Megumis. Forced to concede her point, the official backs Maki out of the ring while Diamond pulls her partner to the center of the ring.
Diamond pulls Nami up and hurls her over in a German suplex, capping it with a Boston crab. The official checks for submission but gets none, only furious mat pounding. Eventually, Steele tires of the situation and releases the hold and relents, allowing Nami to stir slowly. As Megumi raises to her feet, Diamond grabs her from behind for a tiger suplex. Nami, however, laces her legs into Steele’s so she won’t go anywhere. As Diamond attempts to shake her free, Nami instead digs her nails into the siren’s sides and blindly scratches and claws until the singer releases the hold.
Diamond takes a wild swing at Nami, who ducks and spins Kate around before lifting her and dropping the songstress’s tailbone on an outstretched knee. Nami shoves Diamond forward onto all fours before running and jumping on Steele, using her as a springboard to leap to her own corner and tag Maki in. Maki runs in and field goal kicks Steele between the eyes, laying her out.
Instead of going for a pin, Maki grabs Steele’s hair and drags her to face Razzles. Then, Maki puts Steele in a camel clutch with the addition of fish hooking her mouth. Razzles reaches for a tag but her partner is out of reach and the referee tells her she’s leaning too far into the ring. Maki absolutely adores it.
“SING FOR US!” Maki shrieks into Steele’s ear. “Come on! LA LA LA LA LA! SING FOR US!” All the while, Maki cranks the hold back farther and farther. Finally, she unhooks her fingers, palms Diamond by the back of the head and face-plants her into the canvas. She did a handstand before dropping a knee into Diamond’s back.
Razzles, frustrated she can’t help her partner, turns to the fans and rallies a chant in support of Diamond. Maki mocks the chant and reaches down and digs her fingers into Diamond’s eyes to pull her up. Before the referee can admonish her, Diamond throws multiple punches into Maki’s gut, followed by a punch into the bottom of Maki’s jaw.
Maki stumbles backwards then lunges back at Diamond and both women lock into a brutal punch exchange. Diamond manages to shove Maki back into her own corner, running at her and stomping a corner yakuza kick into the woman’s face. But as she’s now in reach, Nami bitch slaps the singer with all her might. Diamond flares up with fury but the referee intercedes, reminding Nami of the rules. The distraction is perfect for Maki, who Mario punches a low blow into Diamond, knocking the woman to her knees.
Maki grabs Diamond by her locks and hurls her to the mat, choking Diamond while the referee continues to strangle Diamond. Nami is all too happy to keep the distraction up until she sees Razzles enter the ring. Immediately, she spins the referee around. Seeing Mars rushing at Maki – but not noticing what Maki’s doing – the referee immediately runs at her and back Mars into her corner. Razzles, flustered, tries to get him to look at Maki’s rule breaking. Nami rolls into the ring and rushes over to Diamond’s prone body, stomping on her left knee while grabbing her left ankle and yanking up, trying to hurt Diamond’s leg as much as possible.
As the official starts to leave Razzles, Nami runs from the ring and Maki plants her palms on Diamond’s forehead, smiling as she pins. The official drops to the mat and counts.
One…
Tw--
Diamond finds the strength to kick out. Maki pouts as she grabs her opponent and drags her towards Nami. The Megumis make the tag but Diamond manages to rip free, running to her corner and tagging Razzles in. Nami is scarcely into the ring before Mars crossbodies both her and Maki into the corner. Razzles grabs Nami by the ears and whips her to the center of the canvas. Maki starts to berate Razzles, who short-arms her out of the ring. Maki lands on the pavement on her upper shoulders.
Nami and Razzles lock up and the match devolves into little more than a fistfight at this point. The official merely steps back into the corner and watches, wincing at assorted blows but saying nothing. Finally, Nami manages to grab Razzles around the waist, lifts and throws her backwards and catching the Sugar Crush’s throat on the top rope. As her throat makes contact, Maki – who’s stumbled around the ring – jumps up and grabs Razzles around the back of the head and pulls her down to choke her on the cable. The referee suddenly snaps back into action, but not before Diamond runs at Maki and Slams a fist into the cheat’s ribs.
Razzles flops backwards, but instead of landing on the mat she hits, back first, across Nami’s knee. She dumps Razzles to the mat and rolls her up in a pin.
One…
Two…
TH--
Razzles manages to get a shoulder up. Nami, just tired of all of this, straddles Razzles chest and begins pummeling.
Outside the ring, Diamond is brutalizing Maki by whipping her into the barricades and backhanding her. Steele grabs Maki by the back of the head and repeatedly bashes her head into the barricade before shoving her down. Smirking, the singer turns and returns to the ring… but possibly too soon. Maki, in agony, looks around and sees a fan on the other side of the barricade, standing on crutches and mocking Megumi. Maki stands, rips one of the crutches from the spectator, and runs at Diamond. Steele turns just in time to get clocked and dropped. Maki brings the crutch down over and over on Diamond until it shatters, and then lifts her up and suplexes her onto the barricade.
As Diamond crumples to the concrete, Maki leans in to gloat… too close, in fact, as Diamond latches onto her and pulls her into a sleeper. Maki manages to grab a loose chain off the barricade and begins pummeling her attacker wildly, even blackening Diamond’s eye. But eventually, Maki goes limp. Diamond staggers to her feet, looking down at all the cuts and bruises from Maki’s beating.
Back in the ring, Nami pulls a groggy Razzles up by her throat and whips her into the ropes. As Mars returns, Nami attempts her version of a Judas Effect, Blind. Razzles manages to catch the forearm and spin Nami in the other direction. As Nami does a full 360, Razzles catches her face and drops in a split-legged jawbreaker, Razzles’ Everlasting Gobstopper.
Nami wobbles away in a daze, not noticing Razzles climbing onto a nearby ring post. As the Megumi turns, the Candy Queen leaps off and delivers her Cherry on Top – a diving somersault neckbreaker. Nami goes down like a sack of bricks and Razzles goes for the cover.
One…
Two…
THREE!
Vivian Blake: Your winners and still Zion Tag Champions… ROCK CANDY!”
Razzles glares down at Nami, who’s still dazed and out of it, as Diamond enters the ring and runs to her side. Steele pulls her partner to her feet and raises her arm. As the referee gives them their belts. The two drink in the cheers of the fans before taking in their splayed out foes – Nami in the ring, Maki slowly stirring outside – before slinging their titles over their shoulders, leave the ring and head into the Hershey Store to celebrate.
WINNERS: ROCK CANDY (#ANDSTILL)
RESULT: PINFALL
We cut back to the ring, with Maki now approaching Nami in the ring. She helps her sister to her feet, who profusely apologizes to her for the result of the match. Maki shows forgiveness, the two embracing in the center of the ring! The hug lasts long enough for Nami to crack a smile, despite everything else that’s happened tonight! The two eventually break away, with Nami in a hurry to exit the ring and make it to the back. Maki doesn’t allow her to make it that far however, pulling Nami in and clocking her with a Clothesline!
Winter Mae: WHOA!!
Trick Morrison: What the hell does Maki Megumi think she’s doing?!
Nami lays on the mat, looking up at Maki with a face full of shock and heartbreak! Maki returns her gaze with nothing but malice, pouncing onto her younger sister and nailing her with Forearms and Elbows to the head! The fans fill Times Square with the sound of boos as Maki stands over her sister, who is in near tears over her betrayal! Maki moves, expressionless as she drags Nami under the bottom rope and drapes her over the apron! She deals the fatal blow, dropping her headfirst on the concrete ground at ringside with an Apron-Hung DDT! Medics crowd around the fallen Nami as Maki backs away, her face still expressionless as we fade.
The scene opens in the training area at the Dominik Hotel in New York City where Reina Mendoza is there, getting in an early workout. Instead of the familiar territory she finds herself in surrounded by weights, punching bags, cardio machines, etc., Zion’s resident “Tejana Giantess” is shown in the area’s yoga studio.
Alone in the room, Reina stands in the center, positioned in a tree pose. Her eyes are completely closed, and she is completely relaxed. After a while, Reina opens her eyes and allows herself to stretch before addressing the camera that is focused on her.
Reina: I never thought in a million years that I would be doing something like this. Evangeline (Sinclair) has urged me repeatedly that I should take this up. She says it helps bring in serenity and provides union of individual consciousness or something like that. After two months of doing this, I’m ashamed that I haven’t done this sooner; allow myself to be exposed to another avenue for me to readjust and refocus. There is no better time to do it than with the new year that has arrived. And tonight, for the first time in about a while, I go back to my playground to do what I do best in a challenge that is the ideal scenario for a woman like me.
Reina leans forward to pick up a towel that was lain beside her and wipes off the excessive sweat from off her as she continues.
Reina: Aubrianna Powers, I have to give you some credit. Didn’t know that you would be National Champion this long, given the company you keep with those neurotic dimwits. But let’s not get this all in your head. All this reign has done is put your name on it, like a certificate that you bring home to your mommy to tell her that you made the Honor Roll or something like that. You’ve held that title for quite a while. But let’s get this serious, you’re far from being a champion. I mean, look who you’ve taken it from? Although Oliver Peters is good, he’s still past his prime and was ripe for the pickings. And fortunately for you, you happen to have your turn. But it’s no use dwelling on the past, “Aubie Sweet-Cheeks.” It’s a new year. And with that, comes a clean slate. Which means, for you, you’re already on fucking red alert!
As she says the last few words, Reina’s shows an intense demeanor, staring at the camera as if she is directly talking to her opponent. A few moments later, after placing the towel around her neck, Reina’s mood lightens as she continues to speak.
Reina: When I was National Champion, that was the A Championship. It was revered out of respect and out of fear because I was the one who made that title that. God help what’s happening with it now. But now I don’t have to like it. But those who know me, including you “pixie bug” that I don’t have to sit and take anything at face value. I’m more of a woman who break faces as well as bodies. And I thought that Christmas was over because I am gifted with FOUR servings of fresh meat for me to feast on and make them all regret accepting this match and being in the same ring with me. That’s right Carmen (Leija), Reo (Ojima), Chris (Matthews), and you too Valentina (Skye). If this is what you consider me calling you out, so be it because I am.
Reina sits on the floor while continuing to speak.
Reina: You all can make an issue of the completely obvious size and strength advantage that I have over all of you and treat it like it’s some original, groundbreaking discovery. Let’s face it, physically and mentally, compared to me, you’re fucking ants. And for the first Mayhem of 2023, you find yourself in a mode of survival from this merciless giant! Stepping into her land, praying to God that you don’t get stepped on. Well, I’m going to be doing a lot more than stomping because my drought in being a champion has gone far enough. And I be DAMNED if I’m going to let ANY OF YOU taint my first match of the new year. Whether you are someone I can simply blow away or exhaust all my energy pounding you into mush, the bottom line is there is NO MERCY in this Gauntlet Eliminator. And in my eyes, the beating will all be the same. The very things that have put me into the wrecking machine people see me as now.
Reina takes a moment to crack her knuckles while taking a moment to pause. Reina then stands up, with the camera following suit as she continues to speak.
Reina: My mission this year is quite simple; to reinforce people to the fact of how much of a threat I am to the entire Zion roster and remind them that EVERYONE will be put on notice. I’ve been rampaging through the darkness for quite some time and now I will force my way into the light that should be shining on me. And at Mayhem, it will start with you four, with every aching bone in your body being a calling card to relay my message to the “pixie bug.” There will be many on this roster who will present strenuous challenges in this match. I know, I’m counting on it. But there is only ONE woman in this match who is a destructive force of nature. And at Mayhem you ALL are going to feel her presence…and PERISH underneath it.
Reina joins her palms together and bows her head before looking at the camera in a respectful manner.
Reina: Namaste.
Reina’s demeanor slowly becomes one of intense intimidation; the trademark precursor to the chaos she is prepared to inflict. Seconds later, she leaves the area, allowing the camera to focus on the interior of the studio before fading to black.
A hulking glint stuns and blinds the iris of any onlooker. Every soul is treated to an alluring scene as soon as their vision adjusts. We are stationed inside some sort of room. But there’s something peculiar about the place. Its spatial dimensions are nearly impossible to decipher due to the shining white porcelain coating the floors, walls, and ceiling.
The perfect alabaster field.
Ten fateful seconds tick away until footsteps reverberate throughout the area. The culprit? ‘Tis QUEEN Sakamoto, but of course. Her black blouse is protected by a stunning crimson leather flyaway jacket. A pair of form fitting pants reflect the jacket’s hue. Corresponding dress sandals bring the look together.
QUEEN Sakamoto: Brevity is the focus of this speech. Your attention is needed but for a few brief moments.
What of her voice? Calm and collected, per usual. But her demeanor? As frigid as the tundra.
QUEEN Sakamoto: Kasey Kash―
QUEEN Sakamoto: I imagine that you have been living on Cloud Nine for the past couple of weeks, hmm? Dozens of celebrations. Parties galore. A bevy of wreckless social media posts that you foolishly assumed I would not see.
The echo of her footsteps are heard as she walks forward.
QUEEN Sakamoto: But let me ask you something oh so very crucial, Kasey…
A brief pause follows.
QUEEN Sakamoto: Are you a man who pays his debts? Hmm?
She taps on her chin, partially awaiting some sort of answer. However, none rings out.
QUEEN Sakamoto: Hmm. Let’s be candid, shall we? Not a single soul on this planet would be uttering your name had it not been for me and my accomplishments with that championship belt. And no, that’s not a statement of hubris. ‘Tis simply the lord written gospel.
A small shake of the head follows.
QUEEN Sakamoto: I am the very woman who crossed through Zion’s door frame and liberated that championship from the jaws of mediocrity. I am the woman who valiantly quelled any and all competition week after week after week. I am the woman who tied the record for most consecutive successful defenses. And I am the woman who was wrongfully snubbed of all year end awards due to my barbaric and caustic nature.
That dark cloud of words pollutes the atmosphere for a period of time.
QUEEN Sakamoto: Kasey? Your glory was entirely paved by my hardships. You grabbed ahold of my coattails and used that minx to reach the top―
Her eyes narrow a bit as she peers into the camera’s lens.
QUEEN Sakamoto: And in truth, it’s difficult for me to be mad at that. I did state that I created a blueprint on how to conquer this company.
The snap of QUEEN’s fingers resembles the sound of a shotgun going off.
QUEEN Sakamoto: And yet, a blueprint necessitates proper credit and compensation. I haven’t received any from you.
A couple of seconds tick away as QUEEN tilts her head.
QUEEN Sakamoto: You have been living in debt with me for a number of weeks, Kasey. And this evening? I’ll be collecting what I am owed. Regardless of what the end result shall be, I am exiting that ring with a piece of your soul. You owe that much for your five minutes of fame.
Blackness dribbles down the screen until the entity of the scene is covered. That is when the camera fades out.
MATCH #4: REO OJIMA VS CARMEN LEIJA VS CHRIS MATTHEWS VS VALENTINA SKYE VS REINA MENDOZA
NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP #1 CONTENDER GAUNTLET ELIMINATOR
Carmen Leija and Chris Matthews start the match at #1 and #2 spot, with the duo immediately tying up in a Collar-and-Elbow! Matthews gets the advantage with a Waistlock, but Turbo quickly escapes with an Elbow to the side of the head! She follows up by sending him to the mat with a Snapmare, before quickly following up with a Dropkick to the side of the head! She rolls off the mat and to her feet from the move, immediately rushing over to the supine Matthews and nailing him with a Running Shooting Star Press! Pin by Turbo, only getting a two!
Turbo gets Matthews to his feet, backing him into the ropes before sending him across the ring with an Irish Whip! Matthews returns to Turbo leaping over her attempt to catch him with another move! He waits for Turbo to turn around, before rushing right into an attempted Arm Drag from the Shieldmaiden! Matthews reverses however, landing on his feet and dropping Turbo with an Arm Drag of his own! Turbo scrambles to her feet, immediately being scooped up and dropped with a Belly-to-Belly Suplex by Matthews! Turbo once again stumbles to her feet, this time finding balance in the corner! Matthews takes advantage of this, rushing over and nailing Turbo with a Lariat in the corner before throwing her across the ring with an Irish Whip to the opposite turnbuckles! He runs after her again, only to be cut off by her throwing a boot up into his face! He staggers back, with Turbo catching him with a Slingblade before the countdown timer starts up!
ENTRANT #3: REO OJIMA
The buzzer goes off and Reo Ojima makes his way down to the ring! Turbo rushes him almost immediately, with the Stone Gargoyle pushing her into the corner and immediately hammering away with strikes! Eventually Matthews comes to, attempting to pull Ojima away to inflict some damage! But Ojima immediately bursts to life on Matthews, pushing him back into the opposite corner and laying into him as well! Ojima now takes advantage of the positions of his opponents, rushing from corner to corner to wallop them both with Knife Edge Chops! This eventually sends Turbo crumbling to the mat, with Matthews stumbling to the center of the ring and leaving himself open to an Ojima Spinebuster! Ojima with the pin, with Matthews getting the shoulder up right before three!
Ojima shows a bit of frustration, looking to finish off Matthews for good by lifting him up for the Last Call! Matthews escapes the Running Powerslam attempt, pushing Ojima shoulder first into the ringpost instead! He crumbles to the mat now, with Turbo seeing an opportunity to strike by leaping from the top rope for the Turbo Boost! But Ojima gets the legs up, sending the soles of his boots right into Turbo’s face as she comes down! Matthews takes advantage, grabbing Turbo from behind and dropping her with a Butterfly Suplex! Ojima is back up now however, grabbing Matthews from behind and pushing him into the corner before getting in the Ojima Special (Chaos Theory into an Armbar)! The initial shock of Ojima’s surprise attack, combined with the relentless torque on the arm gets to be too much for Matthews, who opts to tap out and live to fight another day!
ELIMINATED: CHRIS MATTHEWS
Ojima stands over Matthews, using his foot to nudge him towards the ropes and out of the ring! He then directs his focus to Turbo, scooping her off the mat and preparing her for a Vertical Suplex as the countdown timer once again ticks down to zero!
ENTRANT #4: VALENTINA SKYE
Valentina Skye rushes to the ring, just in time for Turbo to slip Ojima’s grip and land behind him off the Suplex attempt! She pushes Ojima towards the ropes, with Skye catching him from the apron with a Forearm Strike across the head! He staggers back, with Turbo catching him with a Backstabber! Turbo makes it back to her feet, looking right into the eyes of Skye, who watches her from the apron! The two old rivals quickly come to realize that they're the only one’s standing currently, with the two immediately going for one another with unanimous strikes! Skye smacks Turbo across the head with a stiff Forearm, thinking she’s subdued the Las Olvidadas front-woman! But Turbo quickly retorts, catching Skye with an Enzigiri that sends her kneeling! Turbo looks to take advantage, hitting the ropes and rushing back towards Skye! But Skye catches her upon her return, drilling Turbo with a Lariat that turns her inside out! Skye goes for the pin, but Turbo lifts the shoulder up at two and a half!
Skye hardly has time to express frustration over this before Ojima scoops her up from behind and drops her with a German Suplex! He scoops Turbo up as she tries to recover as well, lifting her onto his shoulders before dropping her right on top of Skye with a Powerbomb! Ojima stacks the two up, going for a pin! The two both lift their shoulders at two, with Ojima being upset by this as the countdown timer ticks down once more!
ENTRANT #5: REINA MENDOZA
Ojima eggs the Tejana Giantess on as she rushes towards the ring with hopes of getting the jump on her! He pounces onto Mendoza with a set of strikes as she slides under the bottom rope, seemingly having the edge on the 6 foot 6 goliath! She’s eventually able to will her way out of the onslaught, pushing Ojima back before dropping him with a Spear as he attempts to get back on her! She pulls Ojima up to his feet, before nailing him with a Spinebuster right on top of a recovering Skye! She then catches an approaching Turbo with a Big Boot, followed closely by her lifting the Shieldmaiden up for a Powerbomb! Skye is back up to her feet now, with Mendoza launching Turbo right into her! Ojima rushes towards Mendoza, possibly looking to finally subdue her! But Mendoza scoops him right up, dropping him with the Crash & Burn (Fireman’s Carry Cutter)! Pin by Mendoza getting the three to score the second elimination of the match!
ELIMINATED: REO OJIMA
Mendoza now turns her attention to Turbo, who’s now reeling as the fatigue of coming in first is setting in! She goes for a swing to the Giantess, with her fist just falling short of its target, with Mendoza taking advantage by tossing her across the ring with a Belly-to-Belly Suplex! She gets Turbo off the mat again, this time pushing her back into the ropes and sending her across with an Irish Whip! Mendoza looks for a Big Boot, but Leija still has some fight left in her, ducking underneath it and hitting the opposite ropes in hopes of returning with a huge shot to Mendoza! But she’s having none of it, hitting the opposite ropes to Turbo before catching her as she returns with a Clothesline From Hell! Pin by Mendoza, with Turbo just getting the shoulder up before three!
Mendoza looks to finish off her prey at this point, getting her up on her shoulder in preparation for the Crash & Burn! But Turbo dismounts from the giant shoulders of Mendoza, pushing her from behind right into a Spear from Valentina Skye! She looks at the fallen Mendoza, then to Turbo, instructing her to go to the top rope before pulling Mendoza off the mat! She gets Mendoza in position, finding the strength to lift her up before dropping her right back to the mat with Sun’s Out (Glam Slam)! She flips Mendoza onto her back, leaving her open for Turbo to launch off the top rope with the Turbocharger (Phoenix Splash)! Turbo hooks the leg, with Skye climbing on top as the ref counts the three!
ELIMINATED: REINA MENDOZA
Skye and Turbo are both laid out on the mat, the two exhausted from the match so far! Turbo is more tired than Skye by this point, as evident from the fact that the Trinity member is already beginning to climb to her feet again! Turbo tries to get up as well, but Skye is already on her, laying into her with strikes as the Shieldmaiden begins to wear down! Skye pulls her up to her feet, dropping her to the mat before jumping onto her with a Moonsault! Pin by Skye, with Turbo kicking out at two and a half! Skye continues the onslaught, stomping on her prone body now before lifting her off the mat and dropping her with LA Lights (Diamond Cutter)! Pin by Skye, with Turbo getting a shoulder up just a hair before the referee hits the mat for the three!
This catches the attention of Aubrianna Powers, who’s surprised to see this tenacity from Turbo! She slowly leaves her headset with the commentary team as she advances towards the ring! Meanwhile, Skye has Turbo up, wrapping her hand around her throat in preparation for Skye’s Out! But Turbo sends her back with a kick, before stumbling into the turnbuckles and catching her breath again! Skye approaches, only for Turbo to send her into the turnbuckles in her place, nailing a stiff strike to the midsection again to keep her contained! She rolls out of the corner, before running back and nailing Skye with the Corner Hip Attack! She pushes Skye out of the corner now, allowing her to hit the mat as she proceeds to climb to the top rope! She launches off nailing Skye with the Turbocharger! Turbo goes for the pin, but just before the official slams his hand down for the three, Aubrianna Powers intervenes, pulling Turbo out of the ring by the ankle! The two come face to face, with it just sinking in what Powers has just done! She ditches her National Championship belt on the apron, before running away as Turbo gives chase! The pursuit eventually leads Powers into the ring, with Turbo hot on her tail! Before she can catch up to the champion however, Skye pops up, clocking her over the head with the National Championship belt! Skye quickly goes for the pin, noticing that Turbo is down for the count! The referee counts to the three, as this Gauntlet Eliminator is over!
Vivian Blake: The winner of this match…Valentina! Skye!
Winter Mae: Turbo perhaps put on the performance of a lifetime in this gauntlet, but Valentina Skye gets the win here after plentiful assistance!
Trick Morrison: Aubrianna Powers obviously found the only person in the bunch worthy of taking her on for her National Title and wanted to make sure we all got the match that we deserve!
Powers and Skye back up the ramp in celebration! Turbo stares daggers at them both from inside the ring, seething with anger! Meanwhile, Skye can’t help but give the National Championship a few fleeting glares as we fade.
WINNER: VALENTINA SKYE
RESULT: PINFALL
The scene opened backstage around the makeshift arena. Zara Ivory was leaning against an equipment crate just outside the Queens of Chaos locker room, having opted to use this camera time away from the others, minus her cousin/manager, Marley, who was sitting up on the equipment box behind Zara.
Zara Ivory: 90 days ago today, I walked into a ladder match for the Gateway Championship. I walked out that night as the champion and have proudly held this title since then.
Marley smiled as she nodded, listening to her cousin's words. She leaned forward and squeezed the champion's shoulder briefly before leaning back again to let Zara continue.
Zara Ivory: A mere few weeks after winning the Gateway Championship, I was put on the shelf because the kids from the C show wanted to throw a little hissy, bitch fit. But my fellow Queens and I reminded everyone why Mayhem is the A brand, the top show of Zion when we went to war and won. Then Zion had its holiday break, and Kaya, Lilith, and I went on to win more gold when we became the Trios Champions in NFW. And why? Because the Queens of Chaos are unlike anyone else.
Zara smirked a little before she shrugged a bit. While it wasn't a phrase she had come up with, it truly was one that fit the Queens in every aspect. The woman licked her lips a little before continuing.
Zara Ivory: Tonight, I defend this championship against a mystery opponent, but you can bet all of your pretty little asses that I'll be walking out, still, the Gateway Champion. After that? Well that's just something everyone will have to wait and see. I may just hold onto this for a little while…who knows?
Zara adjusted the Gateway Championship on her shoulder, giving it a quick glance and small pat after doing so. She glanced back at her cousin and gave the other woman a little nod/head tilt. Marley pushed herself up and off of the equipment crate, landing on her feet next to Zara with a smirk.
Zara Ivory: Let's go find out who my next victim is, shall we, Marley? I'm quite intrigued to see who I'm defending this against. I just hope they're ready for me.
Marley Divata: Z, no one is ever really ready for you no matter who they are. But yes, let's see who this mystery opponent is.
The two women linked arms, grins on both of their faces as they walked down the hallway. The scene faded out as the two women continued down the hallway and out of sight.
Vivian Blake: The following contest…is scheduled for one fall!
Crowd: ONE FALL!!
Vivian Blake: And it is for the Zion Wrestling…GATEWAY! CHAMPIONSHIP!
Introducing first…representing The Queens of Chaos…from Richmond, Virginia…weighing in at 131 lbs…she is the Zion Wrestling GATEWAY! CHAMPION!...”Train Wreck”...ZARA! IVORY!
Winter Mae: Zara Ivory is coming to the ring on her 90th day as Gateway Champion! After tonight, she’ll be eligible to trade in that title for any belt on Mayhem!
Trick Morrison: Yeah, but before that she has to beat an opponent with the element of surprise on their side! She could very well fall just short of the goalpost!
Vivian Blake: And her opponent…from Tokyo, Japan…weighing in at 99 lbs…Sakura! Matsuda!
Winter Mae: Sakura Matsuda making her debut on Mayhem following a brief stint on BRKTHRU! Let’s see how she does against the Gateway Champion!
Trick Morrison: Did the cue card writers make a typo, or did I just hear Vivian Blake say that Sakura Matsuda weighs 99 pounds?! This poor girl’s about to get bounced around like a basketball!
Both Ivory and Matsuda advance to the center of the ring to start this one off, with the champion becoming a bit condescending at the size of her challenger! This clearly annoys Matsuda, who takes the high road and opts to circle the ring to get this match started rather than get immediately violent! The two eventually converge in the center of the ring, going for a Collar-and-Elbow Tie Up! Matsuda catches Ivory by surprise, quickly getting her in a Side Headlock to overpower her! Ivory quickly reverses however, pushing Matsuda back into the ropes before sending her off across the ring! Matsuda returns, dropping like a ton of bricks as Ivory takes her down with a Shoulder Block! Ivory hits the adjacent ropes, with Matsuda going for the Drop Down to throw her off! Ivory hops over the prone Matsuda, hitting the ropes before returning to a Hurricanrana from the challenger! Ivory uses the ropes to pull herself back to her feet, with Matsuda looking to send her over with a Clothesline! But Ivory reverses, hoisting Matsuda up and hitting her with a Stun Gun! Matsuda staggers away from the ropes, with Ivory taking her from behind and dropping her with a German Suplex! She bridges for the pin!
ONE…!
TWO…!
Shoulder up by Matsuda, but Ivory refuses to release the Waistlock she has on the opponent, rolling through and looking for another German Suplex! But Matsuda reverses in mid-air, sending Ivory to the mat with a Side Headlock Takeover! Ivory quickly reverses, getting her legs up and wrapping them around Matsuda’s head for the Headscissor, sending her shoulders to the mat! Matsuda kicks out before the official can go for the count, and the two get back to their feet! Matsuda rushes after Ivory, with the Train Wreck dodging her challenger and sending her into the ropes! Matsuda uses her athleticism now, going for a Handspring against the ropes before jumping backwards towards Ivory! This leaves an open for Ivory to catch her on her shoulders in a Torture Rack position! The champion throws Matsuda off her shoulders for a move, but she reverses, catching Ivory with a DDT on the way down! Pin by Matsuda!
ONE…!
TWO…!
Kick out by Ivory! Matsuda gets Ivory to her feet, throwing her towards the ropes with an Irish Whip! But Ivory turns the tables, sending Matsuda into the ropes instead! Ivory hunches over as she anticipates Matsuda’s return! But Matsuda rolls over Ivory’s back, before catching her from behind with an O’Connor Roll Pin!
ONE…!
TWO…!
Ivory reverses, shifting the weight and getting Matsuda in an O’Connor Roll of her own!
ONE…!
TWO…!
Kick out by Matsuda! Ivory is sent forward off the momentum of the kick out, charging back toward Matsuda and being met with a stiff Superkick! Ivory staggers back into the ropes, with Matsuda sending her over with a Clothesline! Matsuda sees her opportunity here, waiting for Ivory to reach her feet again before hitting the ropes and looking for a Suicide Dive! Ivory sidesteps her however, sending her careening into the barricade! Matsuda tries getting to her feet, with Ivory rushing over and nailing her with Team of Misfits! Spear turns her inside out! She gets Matsuda off the floor at ringside, throwing her into the ring and going for the pin!
ONE…!
TWO…!
THREE-
Shoulder up by Matsuda! Ivory look shocked that such a devastating move didn’t put her away! But she doesn’t let up, quickly taking to the corner before leaping up to the top rope! She waits for Matsuda to get to her feet before attempting Obliteration! But Matsuda catches Ivory, pushing her away before catching her as she approaches with a Pump Kick, before collapsing to the mat herself! It takes her a few seconds to crawl over to Ivory for the pin!
ONE…!
TWO…!
THREE-
Kick out by Ivory! Matsuda looks exhausted now, slowly climbing to the top rope before she leaps off for the Eagle Dive! But Ivory gets the knees up, damaging the elbow Matsuda attempted to send into her chest! The weakening of the arm helps Ivory tremendously, as she hooks the arms from behind and drops Matsuda with In A Daze! Tiger Suplex connects! Ivory isn’t finished however, climbing to the top rope and launching off to hit Matsuda with Violence Causes Silence! Frog Splash connects! Ivory hooks the leg!
ONE…!
TWO…!
THREE!!
Vivian Blake: The winner of this match…and STILL the Zion Wrestling GATEWAY! CHAMPION!...ZARA! IVORY!!
Trick Morrison: Another win by the Gateway Champion, and now a championship match in her back pocket for whenever she chooses to go for it!
Winter Mae: But take nothing away from Sakura Matsuda! She brought it tonight, and there’s no doubt she just made a believer out of a lot of people, myself included!
Ivory is handed the Gateway Championship, with the Train Wreck holding it over her head in celebration. Eventually, she approaches Matsuda, helping her to her feet and talking to her for a moment! The two shake hands, with Ivory raising the hand of Mayhem’s newest acquisition out of respect as we fade.
WINNER: ZARA IVORY (#ANDSTILL)
RESULT: PINFALL
Vivian Blake: The following contest…is your MAIN EVENT…and it for the ZION! WRESTLING! CHAMPIONSHIP!
A low murmur emanates from the crowd as the lights dim to a very low level. About fifteen seconds pass before the entryway fills with smoke. Another few moments tick by before voice screams out:
"All Hail the QUEEN!"
The jazzy piano strokes of SOIL & “PIMP” SESSIONS' “Valley of the Light” fill the arena. A solitary spotlight rains down upon the base of the entrance ramp. Five seconds elapse before QUEEN Sakamoto makes her way out from the back. She stands in the spotlight for a couple of moments and adjusts her ring jacket before she treks to the ring. Her pace is slow and there's an arrogance in her demeanor as she moves.
QUEEN leaps onto the ring apron as she gets close to it. She rests her arms on the top rope for a moment; a few seconds pass before she hops over it. QUEEN strolls around the ring for a bit, but she eventually makes her way to the center. She closes her eyes and spreads her arms in order to allow the audience to view her in all her glory. Afterwards, she makes her way to a neutral corner and removes her ring jacket.
The sounds of an electric guitar begin screeching throughout the speakers of the arena, after a few beats have gone the track cuts to just the drums, followed by the opening lyrics…
WHAT IF IT’S ABOUT YOU?!
At that moment, Kasey Kash marches through the curtains and into the center of the stage, where he stands for a few moments, looking out over the crowd in the arena, smirking, before holding his arms out wide and soaking in the reaction from the crowd.
At that point, Kasey would lower his arms and begin walking down the ramp, paying no mind to the fans either side of him. He makes his way to ringside, where he begins to walk around to the side of the ring facing the hardcam, hopping up on the ring apron and looking out over the crowd just as the breakdown of the song begins to build, going through the ropes and standing in the center of the ring, squatting down low as the breakdown builds.
PRETEND! YOU ARE NOT GUILTY!
PRETEND! YOU DON’T SEE THIS SHIT!
PRETEND! THIS IS NOT YOUR WAR!
PRETEND!
FUCK!
And as the breakdown kicks in, Kasey does the signature Mitch Lucker Stomp in the center of the ring, looking around at the crowd, before making his way to the corner of the ring and sitting on the bottom turnbuckle, waiting for the match to begin.
Vivian Blake: Introducing first…from Niigata, Japan…weighing in at 130 lbs…QUEEN! Sakamoto!
And her opponent…from Canberra, Australia…weighing in at 165 lbs…he is the ZION! WRESTLING! CHAMPION!...KASEY! FUCKING! KASH!
Winter Mae: And for those who are concerned, we do have an update on the condition of Nami Megumi. She has been rushed to the nearest hospital following that vicious and shocking attack by Maki Megumi earlier in the night. It is feared that she may have Severe Concussion. We at Zion wish her all the best in her recovery.
Kash doesn’t hesitate off the bell, rushing into Sakamoto’s corner and nailing her with a Yakuza Kick! He immediately capitalizes, getting Sakamoto in position before dropping her in the center of the ring with a Blue Thunder Bomb! Pin by Kash!
ONE…!
TWO…!
Kick out by Sakamoto! Kash gets Sakamoto to her feet, throwing her towards the ropes and waiting for her return! Sakamoto ducks underneath a Lariat attempt from Kash, before hitting the ropes again before jumping up and nailing Kash with a Hurricanrana! This lines Kash up with the turnbuckles, with Sakamoto taking advantage by rushing over and sending him into the corner with a Shotgun Dropkick! Sakamoto paces around the ring, regaining her bearings a bit before rushing over to a seated Kash in the corner! But Kash counters, sending a foot up and plunging it into her midsection! He pulls himself up to the second rope, getting a hold of Sakamoto before driving her head into the mat with a Tornado DDT! Another pin by Kash!
ONE…!
TWO…!
Kick out by Sakamoto! Kash drags the former champion up to her feet, looking for an Exploder Suplex into the corner! But Sakamoto escapes, pushing Kash into the corner before catching him as he returns with a Belly-to-Belly Suplex! She quickly takes to the top rope, waiting for Kash to get back to his feet before launching off and hitting him with a Meteora! She hooks the legs, going for a Rana pin!
ONE…!
TWO…!
Kash reverses, pushing Sakamoto to the mat for a Sit Out Pin!
ONE…!
TWO…!
Kick out by Sakamoto, who rolls back to her feet and nails a seated Kash with a Basement Dropkick! Kash rolls out of the ring, with Sakamoto climbing out of the ring after him! She attempts to throw Kash into the barricade, but he reverses, sending her into the ringpost instead! It’s then that he notices a familiar face in the crowd, as ISIS stands in the front row amongst the New York fans, her Universal Contract in hand! Kash stares down The God of Destruction, completely aware of what brings here for this particular match! He advises her not to pick the fight she’s thinking of picking before turning his attention back to Sakamoto, who’s already come to and is ready to attack! She blasts Kash with a Forearm Strike before throwing him right into the steel steps! She stands over the fallen champion, advising him to keep his eye on her, claiming to be his biggest current threat! She throws Kash back into the ring, immediately climbing to the top rope and jumping off to nail him with her signature Rounding Splash! Pin by Sakamoto!
ONE…!
TWO…!
THRE-
Kick out by Kash! Sakamoto prepares to end this, nudging her boot underneath a fallen Kash’s chin before using it to guide him up to his feet! She looks to finally reclaim her gold, going for the Magnum Opus! But Kash ducks underneath the Brazilian Kick, quickly responding with a Superkick of his own! This shot turns Sakamoto around, with Kash getting her in position and hitting her with Fuck You and All Your Friends! Ripcord Bicycle Knee connects! Pin by Kash!
ONE…!
TWO…!
THRE-
Kick out by Sakamoto! Kash is ready to end this one however, hitting the ropes before attempting the Lucker Stomp! But Sakamoto snatches the champion out of midair, dumping him on the mat with a Sit Out Powerbomb! She lines up her shot, seemingly looking for a Cartwheel Knee Drop! It’s by this point that Sakamoto takes notice of ISIS, who has now vacated her spot behind the barricade in favor of advancing towards the ringside area! Sakamoto quickly leaves the ring, stepping up to ISIS and telling the woman to leave, not wanting her to blow her chances in this match with the contract she now possesses! ISIS doesn’t budge however, instead smiling and patting Sakamoto on the head, accentuating the near foot of height she has over the former Zion Champion! Sakamoto responds angrily, putting her hand to ISIS’ face and pushing her back, before heading into the ring! She immediately gets cut off by a recovered Kash, who rushes up and nails her with No Pressure! Running Blockbuster connects! He doesn’t stop there however, hitting the ropes before nailing her with the Lucker Stomp! Curb Stomp catches her! Kash with the pin!
ONE…!
TWO…!
THREE!!
Vivian Blake: The winner of this match…and STILL the ZION! WRESTLING! CHAMPION!...KASEY! FUCKING! KASH!
Winter Mae: Kasey Kash retains the Zion Wrestling Championship tonight over a tough challenger! You can only imagine that the Canberran Anti-Christ feels good about setting the tone for his title reign here!
Trick Morrison: QUEEN Sakamoto took her eye off the ball for a moment and it cost her! I understand not wanting to leave anything to chance, but Kasey Kash is the last person in Zion Wrestling you wanna turn your back on!
Kash is handed the Zion Wrestling Championship belt, however the only thing he can seem to focus on is the ringside area, as ISIS slowly approaches the ring! She climbs inside, with Kash almost demanding that she sign the contract to make their Championship Match official! Despite him inviting the challenge, however, it seems ISIS has appeared in the ring for a different reason, slamming QUEEN Sakamoto with a Lariat just as she got up! Kash looks on in shock, not sure what to make of this development!
ISIS lays into Sakamoto with stomps, seemingly as recompense for the disrespect shown by her earlier! Kash looks on at all of this, deciding to exit the ring and not get involved! ISIS hoists Sakamoto up, dropping her with Welcome to Dystopia and standing over her to close out the show!
WINNER: KASEY KASH (#ANDSTILL)
RESULT: PINFALL
Zion Wrestling © 2020
Vivian Blake: Please welcome…HEALTH!!
And now…Zion Wrestling Presents…Mayhem: New Year’s Revolution!
Following the live performance, we cut to the ringside area, with Winter Mae and Trick Morrison standing next to the ring!
Winter Mae: After a long wait, we are finally back with some Zion action! We hope you had a happy holiday and New Year, but right now we welcome you…to Mayhem: New Year’s Revolution! I’m Winter Mae, joined as always by my broadcast partner, Trick Morrison!
Trick Morrison: I’m happy to ring in the New Year right here in the heart of New York City! We have a huge show lined up for you tonight! Let’s get down to it!
The scene opens up backstage inside the office of Katrina Lopez. She is dressed to the nine, looking stylish per usual. Sitting on the other side of the desk wearing a sparkling green dress is ISIS. We’re not used to seeing ISIS outside of her ring gear, if you count Twitter on the rare occasion she shows off her body. The two alpha females give each other a non commitment glaces.
ISIS: “I am not here to take up too much of your time. I’d like to know what was the special opportunity I secured when I beat Reo on the last Mayhem before Christmas break? Good thing he lost. We both know he would have wasted what is in store for him. Unlike the old man, I won’t fail. What do you have in mind for me, Katrina? Or do you prefer Ms. Lopez?”
Katrina Lopez: Please, call me Katrina. And I expected you’d be coming to me. I expect a lot of people to have questions for me now that I’ve returned from my injury absence. With your win over Reo, I’ve decided to award you a very unique opportunity. One that crosses the imaginary boundaries that separate our brands. I’m giving you the opportunity to have a universal open contract. That means you can challenge any champion on any brand at a time and place of your choosing. I’ve had my eye on you for some time and, well, I think you’ve earned this type of opportunity.
ISIS eyes light up. This is a rare moment. Usually ISIS is stoic or she’s so into the destruction she inflicts it appears she enjoys it more than she’s letting on. A smirk flashes across her face.
ISIS: “So any champion in this company is fair game? ”
ISIS stands up. She gives Katrina a nod, letting her know she appreciates the power she has been given.
ISIS: “Whoevers championship I decide to claim as my own, they’ll only have fate to blame. Thanks Katrina. I won’t waste this.”
Katrina smiles and nods back. ISIS turns around. She leaves Katrina alone in her office as the scene fades to black.
The scene cuts backstage as an annoyed Reo Ojima is seen tapping his wrist up with white tape. Reo knows the camera is there but he just doesn’t care to look at it as he addresses it in his native Japanese. Luckily for the English viewers at home there are English subtitles.
Reo Ojima: It’s 2023 and it’s the same shit here in Zion as it was in 2022. Lazy booking, paper Champions, and catering is mostly garbage. I’ve done my best to improve this place but no one wants to listen. Waste of my time. Keep on pushing the carbon copies who don’t know the difference between a wrist lock and an ankle lock. Only thing keeping me around are the few friends that I’ve made at the bar after the shows.
One wrist is done as he motions his wrist around to make sure it’s comfortably. Onto the next wrist as Reo goes back to talking.
Reo Ojima: The National Title opportunity was nice. It’s a shot at a title that’s been out of my grasp for awhile. Plus it gives me an opportunity to bring the National Title back to Peters and assure him it’s in good hands. But then I look and see who’s in the match with me and I can’t help but be disappointed. Who the fuck is Carmen Leija? Chris Matthews hasn’t been relevant for years? Valentina Skye? Reina Mendoza? Can you tell me what any of these wrestlers have done in the past month? 5 months? Year? Their resume is barely readable and yet they get a title opportunity? What did they do to be in this match?
Reo bites his lip as he does his best to keep his anger under control.
Reo Ojima: I have two titles in my possession. Top wrestler in the multiple promotions that I’m in. Close to thirty years in this business. And yet I have to earn a right to face for the National Title against these jabronies? Worst part, the best and most deserving might not win. I could hit one of these jabronis with my finisher, I go for the pin, and then another mouth breather comes up from behind, kicks me out and they get the pin for the win.
The other wrist is done and Reo tosses the tap into his duffle bag. Reo lets out a big sigh as he reaches out and grabs a nearby lit cigar.
Reo Ojima: Wrestling can be fucked up. Cruel. Hopefully the wrestling Gods will smile on me. Either way, I’m drinking after the match.
Reo puts the cigar in his mouth and goes back to getting ready for his match as the scene goes to commercial.
Vivian Blake: The following contest…is scheduled for one fall!
Crowd: ONE FALL!
Vivian Blake: And is for the BRKTHRU! CHAMPIONSHIP!
Introducing first, the challenger…from Shreveport. Louisiana…weighing in at 144 lbs…Thalia! Starks!
And her opponent…from Lancaster, Pennsylvania…weighing in at 210 lbs…he is the BRKTHRU! CHAMPION!...ELIJAH! COPELAND!
Elijah And Thalia tie up with each other, as Elijah gets the upper hand with an obvious size advantage, grounding her early on with a side headlock takedown. Thalia escaped with a headscissors, as she started to go to the ropes for a shotgun dropkick, that knocked him down, and followed up with a standing moonsault and a cover.
ONE…!
TWO…!
Copeland kicked out, as Thalia goes to clutch his neck for a gator roll to disorient him. She gets up, looking for a brainbuster, but, Elijah strikes her in the head with a rising knee to free himself. He then followed up with a low kick to her calf to make Thalia buckle, and then a superkick to follow up. He smugly looked down at her with a shit-eating grin, before placing a boot on her chest and flexing.
ONE…!
Not taking the disrespect, Thalia would roll him up with an ankle lock. Before she could drop into a grapevine, Elijah rolled through to make her stumble to the corner, and she hits the turnbuckle. He attempted a roll-up, but, let the hold go early to hit her with another superkick, and then a proper cover.
ONE…!
TWO…!
No! Thalia kicked out, as Elijah would stomp her while she was down. He would get her up to her knees, and clipped her in the back of the head with an axe kick, as he taunted to the crowd to get some boos from the crowd. Elijah would set Thalia up for the Philly Special, but, she shoved him back. He goes for a clothesline, but, Thalia ducked it and keeps up her momentum before hitting a Rolling wheel kick to knock him down. He gets up, and is whipped to the corner and hit with a corner splash! Thalia would transition him down with a hip toss, as she was looking to go to the top rope. She tucked her arms in, looking for a coffin drop, but, Elijah popped up to hit her with an Avalanche German Suplex, as the crowd gives a massive pop for the move. Thalia is reeling from the move, having taken a lot of damage from it, while Elijah isn't unscathed, as he is also a bit slow to get up. The official would check on Thalia, which gives Elijah time to bring out a secret weapon, brass knuckles that he had smuggled in. Thalia would get to her feet, as Elijah would blast her with a powerful shot to the face with the ref missing the illegal weapon. He covered Thalia, while slinging the knucks outside the ring, as she was covered.
ONE…!
TWO…!
THREE!!
Vivian Blake
"Here is your winner, and still! The BRKTHRU Champion! Elijah! Copeland!"
He raised his arms up with the crowd having a mixed reaction to his victory, before "Reborn Through Failure" played, as we see Chelsea Skye making her way to the ring, as she had a verbal exchange with Elijah, before it turned into a brawl between the two. Both scrap with each other, as Elijah goes for a high kick, but Chelsea would duck and hits the Angel's Reckoning on him, as he rolled out of the ring and would retreat up the ramp. Thalia was slowly getting to her feet, as Chelsea approached her, and out of a knee-jerk reaction, Thalia hits Chelsea with a strange purple mist that makes contact with her eyes and open mouth. She shrieked from the move, while Thalia would stay back and study her, as Chelsea sees Elijah heading to the back, but, it isn't what she had seen.
Chelsea Skye
"Wait… what are you doing here? What are you doing to her?!"
Chelsea said in a panic, as she watched in horror, before starting to frantically head up the ramp, as Elijah would see her chasing him and run faster, with both fleeing Thalia, as the camera panned on her, the Mist's remnants still on her face, as she gives off a wicked smile.
WINNER: ELIJAH COPELAND (#ANDSTILL)
RESULT: PINFALL
At the Yellow Rose Saloon, we see both Sadie and Jane drinking their sorrow away. "Peaceful Easy Feeling" by The Eagles is playing on the jukebox in the background, as they look at the empty cases where their ACE tag titles once were. They were the ones meant to be taking the tag world by storm, however in the triple threat tag over there, Thotline Miami has won their titles after pinning the Misfits, and it had sunk them into a deep depression.
Sadie Cassidy
"Everything was out of our hands. We couldn't do anything about it, since we couldn't pin Taylor or Cindy."
Jane Adler
"That's beyond the point… it should have never ended so soon. I hate this…"
She said, as you could hear the head trainer of the Star Factory, and their mentor, Josie Wales walking in at the background with a jangle to her spurs as she goes to pour herself a drink while they sulk.
Sadie Cassidy
"Me too… never felt so low before."
Jane Adler
"Don't be so glum, we can do this, Sadie! All we gotta do is…"
NO SLEEP 'TIL!!!!
Abruptly, the jukebox would begin to play "No Sleep Til Brooklyn" by The Beastie Boys quite loudly, with a pop from the crowd. We see Sayge Gonzalez having hacked into the Jukebox to change the song and volume, whilst they toast their beers as the local girls had beaten some other local girls in a dark match. Jane and Sadie would confront them for causing a disturbance in their bar.
Jane Adler
"Hey, this isn't some kind of Honky-Tonk!"
Sadie Cassidy
"We don't take requests, either! Turn it down!"
Austin St. Croix
"We're just tryna relax after a long night, you gotta chill!"
Sayge Gonzalez
"Besides, I hate the fuckin' Eagles, man!"
She said, with a laugh from some of the audience watching in the crowd tonight. The girls would inaudibly argue with each other, until the jukebox is abruptly unplugged, as we're interrupted with a stern, almost motherly shout.
Josie Wales
"Enough!!!"
She stated, having enough of their antics, as Josie makes her way to Jane and Sadie, turning them around.
Josie Wales
"You two should be striking fear into the hearts of the wicked! But, you've been letting lesser teams surpass you, making a mockery of tag team wrestling! In fact, you seem to care more about this shithole than going out and fighting!"
She said, as we get a wideshot of the Saloon briefly, as their version of it in ACE is a lot more detailed since it's in a fixed position, while their traveling one is a bit barebones.
Jane Adler
"Hey, c'mon, we're doing a service here…"
Josie Wales
"Your service is supposed to be protecting the innocent. Meanwhile, there has been an invasion from a whole other company, and numerous people battered under your "watch", Jane. Now, the way I used to handle business, when some loud mouth Yankees come rolling in to start trouble…"
Austin St. Croix
"Scuse me?!"
Austin said, bowing up to Josie, as she quickly commented back to her.
Josie Wales
"If you ever wanna go, meet me down under at XIX."
She said, quickly brushing Austin off, as Josie continued to berate her girls.
Josie Wales
"Now, before I was rudely interrupted… we would have a good ol fashioned bar fight! So next week, you make sure to shine this place up real nice… I'm going to have a chat with management and let you both settle this properly…"
Josie said, as she would start to walk out through the Saloon doors, as the Datadames and Regulators, Incorporated stared at each other briefly. The Dames would make their way out of the Saloon as well, with the camera focusing on Jane and Sadie, before fading out.
In the back, we see Valentina Skye standing in the Trinity Lockeroom. There is nobody around her as she is by herself. Valentina looks at the camera and smirks.
Valentina Skye: Tonight happens to be the night I kick off 2023 on the RIGHT note.
She smirks and flips her now brown hair.
Valentina Skye: Last year was a big improvement from the horrible and dreaded 2021 I had, but this year? It’s going to be bigger, BADDER, SPICY and hotter than before and tonight, I am going to make that happen!
She keeps on smirking
Valentina Skye: Tonight, I happen to be in a Gauntlet elimination match to determine who will be the number one contender to the National Championship that my stablemate and Trinity’ finest, Aubrianna Powers, is currently holding right now. Yes, I know, we are a GROUP, but I need to put the friendship to the side.
Valentina keeps a straight eye on the camera.
Valentina Skye: I have to get through five other people, who are not worthy of my time. They shouldn’t be in this match up….AT ALL! I should be the ONLY one getting this shot!
She gets madder by the second.
Valentina Skye: If I have to go through this match, then SO BE IT! I plan on going in, and coming out as the number one contender to the National Championship and facing off against Aubrianna, THEN I WILL!
She takes a step back.
Valentina Skye: Watch and see what happens!
She leaves and walks to her match
MATCH #2: RYAN PETERS VS THE BALL
Peters immediately goes after The Ball off the bell, sweeping him to the mat with a Chop Block! He begins to mount the poor jobber with a heavy set of Elbows and Forearms! The Ball is nearly bludgeoned by this point, with Peters pulling him up by the arm and catching him out of midair to drop him with a Northern Lights Suplex! He stands over The Ball, who is now trying to crawl away, much to his delight! Peters hits the ropes, nailing him with Stay Fucked (Curb Stomp), before pulling him up again and nailing him with the Redemption Arc (Rolling Wheel Kick)! He goes for the pin, but before the referee’s hand could land at the end of the three count, Peters pulls The Ball out, smiling to the crowd before instead opting to finish him off with an Inverted Figure 4 Leg Lock! The same move that took out his own father! The Ball caves, almost immediately tapping out!
Vivian Blake: The winner of this match…Ryan! Peters!
Winter Mae: A vicious win tonight by Ryan Peters in his official Mayhem debut!
Trick Morrison: Already proving that he’s better than his old man! What a statement!
Peters stands confidently following his victory, placing a foot on the chest of his fallen adversary as we fade.
WINNER: RYAN PETERS
RESULT: SUBMISSION
WAIT!! NO!! Just then, Peters is grabbed from behind! He struggles, but eventually succumbs to the hold being placed on him, falling to the mat to reveal SAMUEL LOPEZ as the culprit!
Trick Morrison: What the hell is that madman doing here?!
Winter Mae: Possibly taking revenge for Ryan’s behavior before our broadcasting break! It seems Lopez never forgot!
Lopez kneels besides an unconscious Peters, staring daggers into him as we fade!
Nami leads Maki in front of the camera before Nami starts to say something but Maki seems to stop her and push Nami behind her back. Confused but in the end she lets Maki do what she wants.
Maki Megumi: As you all know The Meguism lost to Rock Candy and started 2023 with nothing but this is not what I expected, Zion Wrestling Tag Team Champion is mine and it has always been mine. But in the end I lost but it's not my fault. It's Nami's fault, it's Nami's fault that I'm going to lose. She didn't even follow our plan. Can you blame me for doing my best to defend the title? No, I did everything while Nami didn't even try to prove she wanted to defend her championship, now I know what Meguism's weaknesses are because every time we win it's because of me. I've been carrying Nami since day one. That we are Meguism, and if tonight Nami still can't prove that she's really stronger. It's disappointing to say that I'm going to have to go through the worst with her to get the best out of Nami Megumi, or maybe she's no longer a good fit to work with me. Hope I can see something good from my sister tonight. and hopefully it will be one more time for me to win.
Nami looks at her sister in confusion as to why Maki would say that to her. Maki turns to look at Nami with a disappointed look in her eyes before she shakes her head before walking away from the camera and leaving Nami standing. Alone in front of the camera, Nami watches Maki walk away before looking back at the camera once more before she begins to speak.
Nami Megumi: I don't know why Maki would say something that shouldn't be said right now. It's a bit confusing to me, but right now I'm not going to find out what's going on. I look forward to tonight's match facing Rock Candy again. It's not an easy match for me but my goal is to win this match and be champion again. December wasn't what I wanted, the stories flooded me. But I look forward to doing my best in this match and proving that it wasn't my fault that Megumi lost the championship but on the other hand it would be another time for Meguism to become champion because of me. I know Maki doesn't trust me now but I'll prove that from that day I was defeated. And I want to show that what Maki said is totally wrong. I'm still determined to lead Meguism to success and I'm not Meguism's weakness. I don't know what would happen if Maki wanted to let go of me now. But I want to show how committed I am to our team. I believe in Maki. So tonight I'm gonna take back the champion that was mine.
Nami Megumi finish her words before leave and camera fade to black and cut into the commercial.
Times Square is filled with anticipation as tourists and spectators crowd the barricades set up around the Zion ring and giant sound system speakers set up for the event. The speakers crackle to life with a familiar voice.
Vivian Blake: Ladies and gentlemen, our next bout is for the Zion Tag Team Championship. Coming to the ring first, at a combined weight of two hundred twenty-five pounds, they are the former Zion Tag Champions… MEGUISM!”
A spotlight hits the entrance of M&M World as Nami and Maki Megumi leave the building, evil grins on their faces. Nami raises what looks like a t-shirt cannon onto her shoulder as Maki pours a giant sack of the candies into. Immediately, Nami fires the sweets into the crowd, pelting bystanders in the face and eliciting shocked screams of pain.
The Megumis enter the ring, continuing to both bite and disrespect Razzles’ gimmick while shooting hard candies into the crowd. The referee attempts to remove the bazooka from Nami but Maki interferes, arguing he has no authority before the bell rings.
Vivian Blake: And coming to the ring now, the Zion Tag Team Champions. At a combined weight of two hundred thirty pounds… ROCK CANDY!
The crowd is forcefully parted by security as Razzles Mars and Diamond Steele appear from the entrance of Radio City Music Hall, belts over their shoulders. The two raise each other’s arms to some of Diamond’s own music, although the prattle of the crowd mutes the music. The two run to the ring...
Just in time for a rock candy and M&M blast from Nami’s bazooka, right into their faces. The women shield themselves as best they can – dropping their belts in the process - but the confections momentarily blind them. And that’s when the Megumis act. Maki bounds to the ropes, hopping onto the top rope and leaping off, delivering a double axe handle to Diamond’s skull. Nami slides out of the ring and puts the muzzle of the weapon to Razzles’ face.
“Open wide,” Nami giggles as she fires. Razzles cries out as her beloved candy betrays her, pelting her painfully. With that, Nami bashes the pvc barrel over Mars’ head and shoves her into the ring, just in time for the bell.
Nami shoves Zion’s favorite sweetheart into the ring and follows afterwards. She immediately goes for a pin and the referee starts his count.
One…
Two…
THRE--
Razzles breaks free, shaking off the sneak attack and joining the match. Nami, not here for it, rakes Razzles eyes and goes in for a choke. The official instantly begins a count as Nami shoves Razzles to the mat in her strangulation. It’s only when the zebra yells, “Four,” that she realizes the count is on her and not a pin. With no lack of annoyance, Nami breaks the hold and the ref chides her. She rolls her eyes as she grabs handfuls of pink hair and hauls the Candy Queen up, but Razzles has other plans and rams her elbow into Nami’s midsection. Nami stops, grunting and folding forward, just in time for Razzles to slam a forearm into her mouth and throw her to the ropes.
Meanwhile, outside, Maki has been hammering away mercilessly on Diamond and screaming about hers and Nami’s belts. Diamond is slowly coming out of her daze just in time to a kick across the jaw, sending her tumbling into the steel steps. Maki rushes at her, hauling back for a punch, but the singer deftly evades and Maki only punches the steps. Maki reels back, swearing louder, but not before Diamond sweeps her legs from under her. Kipping up, Diamond proceeds to stomp a mudhole into Maki, who can barely shield herself. Maki finally pulls herself away, retreating around the ring to her corner. Diamond considered giving chase, but instead goes to her corner to watch Razzles.
Back in the ring, Razzles whips Nami to the ropes, catching her with a boot to the chin on the rebound. Quickly, the Sugary Sweetheart goes for a cover as Nami falls flat, but the Megumi bucks before there’s even a one. Razzles rises, kicking Nami in the head as she does, then goes to Diamond to tag her. Diamond pulls herself on top of the ring post as Razzles returns to Nami. Mars pulls Megumi up and lifts her up vertically, almost for a suplex, when Diamond leaps off the post and delivers a dropkick to her. Nami flies across the ring as Diamond rolls up. Maki steps into the ring immediately and approaches Diamond but Steele reminds the referee there was no tag between the Megumis. Forced to concede her point, the official backs Maki out of the ring while Diamond pulls her partner to the center of the ring.
Diamond pulls Nami up and hurls her over in a German suplex, capping it with a Boston crab. The official checks for submission but gets none, only furious mat pounding. Eventually, Steele tires of the situation and releases the hold and relents, allowing Nami to stir slowly. As Megumi raises to her feet, Diamond grabs her from behind for a tiger suplex. Nami, however, laces her legs into Steele’s so she won’t go anywhere. As Diamond attempts to shake her free, Nami instead digs her nails into the siren’s sides and blindly scratches and claws until the singer releases the hold.
Diamond takes a wild swing at Nami, who ducks and spins Kate around before lifting her and dropping the songstress’s tailbone on an outstretched knee. Nami shoves Diamond forward onto all fours before running and jumping on Steele, using her as a springboard to leap to her own corner and tag Maki in. Maki runs in and field goal kicks Steele between the eyes, laying her out.
Instead of going for a pin, Maki grabs Steele’s hair and drags her to face Razzles. Then, Maki puts Steele in a camel clutch with the addition of fish hooking her mouth. Razzles reaches for a tag but her partner is out of reach and the referee tells her she’s leaning too far into the ring. Maki absolutely adores it.
“SING FOR US!” Maki shrieks into Steele’s ear. “Come on! LA LA LA LA LA! SING FOR US!” All the while, Maki cranks the hold back farther and farther. Finally, she unhooks her fingers, palms Diamond by the back of the head and face-plants her into the canvas. She did a handstand before dropping a knee into Diamond’s back.
Razzles, frustrated she can’t help her partner, turns to the fans and rallies a chant in support of Diamond. Maki mocks the chant and reaches down and digs her fingers into Diamond’s eyes to pull her up. Before the referee can admonish her, Diamond throws multiple punches into Maki’s gut, followed by a punch into the bottom of Maki’s jaw.
Maki stumbles backwards then lunges back at Diamond and both women lock into a brutal punch exchange. Diamond manages to shove Maki back into her own corner, running at her and stomping a corner yakuza kick into the woman’s face. But as she’s now in reach, Nami bitch slaps the singer with all her might. Diamond flares up with fury but the referee intercedes, reminding Nami of the rules. The distraction is perfect for Maki, who Mario punches a low blow into Diamond, knocking the woman to her knees.
Maki grabs Diamond by her locks and hurls her to the mat, choking Diamond while the referee continues to strangle Diamond. Nami is all too happy to keep the distraction up until she sees Razzles enter the ring. Immediately, she spins the referee around. Seeing Mars rushing at Maki – but not noticing what Maki’s doing – the referee immediately runs at her and back Mars into her corner. Razzles, flustered, tries to get him to look at Maki’s rule breaking. Nami rolls into the ring and rushes over to Diamond’s prone body, stomping on her left knee while grabbing her left ankle and yanking up, trying to hurt Diamond’s leg as much as possible.
As the official starts to leave Razzles, Nami runs from the ring and Maki plants her palms on Diamond’s forehead, smiling as she pins. The official drops to the mat and counts.
One…
Tw--
Diamond finds the strength to kick out. Maki pouts as she grabs her opponent and drags her towards Nami. The Megumis make the tag but Diamond manages to rip free, running to her corner and tagging Razzles in. Nami is scarcely into the ring before Mars crossbodies both her and Maki into the corner. Razzles grabs Nami by the ears and whips her to the center of the canvas. Maki starts to berate Razzles, who short-arms her out of the ring. Maki lands on the pavement on her upper shoulders.
Nami and Razzles lock up and the match devolves into little more than a fistfight at this point. The official merely steps back into the corner and watches, wincing at assorted blows but saying nothing. Finally, Nami manages to grab Razzles around the waist, lifts and throws her backwards and catching the Sugar Crush’s throat on the top rope. As her throat makes contact, Maki – who’s stumbled around the ring – jumps up and grabs Razzles around the back of the head and pulls her down to choke her on the cable. The referee suddenly snaps back into action, but not before Diamond runs at Maki and Slams a fist into the cheat’s ribs.
Razzles flops backwards, but instead of landing on the mat she hits, back first, across Nami’s knee. She dumps Razzles to the mat and rolls her up in a pin.
One…
Two…
TH--
Razzles manages to get a shoulder up. Nami, just tired of all of this, straddles Razzles chest and begins pummeling.
Outside the ring, Diamond is brutalizing Maki by whipping her into the barricades and backhanding her. Steele grabs Maki by the back of the head and repeatedly bashes her head into the barricade before shoving her down. Smirking, the singer turns and returns to the ring… but possibly too soon. Maki, in agony, looks around and sees a fan on the other side of the barricade, standing on crutches and mocking Megumi. Maki stands, rips one of the crutches from the spectator, and runs at Diamond. Steele turns just in time to get clocked and dropped. Maki brings the crutch down over and over on Diamond until it shatters, and then lifts her up and suplexes her onto the barricade.
As Diamond crumples to the concrete, Maki leans in to gloat… too close, in fact, as Diamond latches onto her and pulls her into a sleeper. Maki manages to grab a loose chain off the barricade and begins pummeling her attacker wildly, even blackening Diamond’s eye. But eventually, Maki goes limp. Diamond staggers to her feet, looking down at all the cuts and bruises from Maki’s beating.
Back in the ring, Nami pulls a groggy Razzles up by her throat and whips her into the ropes. As Mars returns, Nami attempts her version of a Judas Effect, Blind. Razzles manages to catch the forearm and spin Nami in the other direction. As Nami does a full 360, Razzles catches her face and drops in a split-legged jawbreaker, Razzles’ Everlasting Gobstopper.
Nami wobbles away in a daze, not noticing Razzles climbing onto a nearby ring post. As the Megumi turns, the Candy Queen leaps off and delivers her Cherry on Top – a diving somersault neckbreaker. Nami goes down like a sack of bricks and Razzles goes for the cover.
One…
Two…
THREE!
Vivian Blake: Your winners and still Zion Tag Champions… ROCK CANDY!”
Razzles glares down at Nami, who’s still dazed and out of it, as Diamond enters the ring and runs to her side. Steele pulls her partner to her feet and raises her arm. As the referee gives them their belts. The two drink in the cheers of the fans before taking in their splayed out foes – Nami in the ring, Maki slowly stirring outside – before slinging their titles over their shoulders, leave the ring and head into the Hershey Store to celebrate.
WINNERS: ROCK CANDY (#ANDSTILL)
RESULT: PINFALL
We cut back to the ring, with Maki now approaching Nami in the ring. She helps her sister to her feet, who profusely apologizes to her for the result of the match. Maki shows forgiveness, the two embracing in the center of the ring! The hug lasts long enough for Nami to crack a smile, despite everything else that’s happened tonight! The two eventually break away, with Nami in a hurry to exit the ring and make it to the back. Maki doesn’t allow her to make it that far however, pulling Nami in and clocking her with a Clothesline!
Winter Mae: WHOA!!
Trick Morrison: What the hell does Maki Megumi think she’s doing?!
Nami lays on the mat, looking up at Maki with a face full of shock and heartbreak! Maki returns her gaze with nothing but malice, pouncing onto her younger sister and nailing her with Forearms and Elbows to the head! The fans fill Times Square with the sound of boos as Maki stands over her sister, who is in near tears over her betrayal! Maki moves, expressionless as she drags Nami under the bottom rope and drapes her over the apron! She deals the fatal blow, dropping her headfirst on the concrete ground at ringside with an Apron-Hung DDT! Medics crowd around the fallen Nami as Maki backs away, her face still expressionless as we fade.
The scene opens in the training area at the Dominik Hotel in New York City where Reina Mendoza is there, getting in an early workout. Instead of the familiar territory she finds herself in surrounded by weights, punching bags, cardio machines, etc., Zion’s resident “Tejana Giantess” is shown in the area’s yoga studio.
Alone in the room, Reina stands in the center, positioned in a tree pose. Her eyes are completely closed, and she is completely relaxed. After a while, Reina opens her eyes and allows herself to stretch before addressing the camera that is focused on her.
Reina: I never thought in a million years that I would be doing something like this. Evangeline (Sinclair) has urged me repeatedly that I should take this up. She says it helps bring in serenity and provides union of individual consciousness or something like that. After two months of doing this, I’m ashamed that I haven’t done this sooner; allow myself to be exposed to another avenue for me to readjust and refocus. There is no better time to do it than with the new year that has arrived. And tonight, for the first time in about a while, I go back to my playground to do what I do best in a challenge that is the ideal scenario for a woman like me.
Reina leans forward to pick up a towel that was lain beside her and wipes off the excessive sweat from off her as she continues.
Reina: Aubrianna Powers, I have to give you some credit. Didn’t know that you would be National Champion this long, given the company you keep with those neurotic dimwits. But let’s not get this all in your head. All this reign has done is put your name on it, like a certificate that you bring home to your mommy to tell her that you made the Honor Roll or something like that. You’ve held that title for quite a while. But let’s get this serious, you’re far from being a champion. I mean, look who you’ve taken it from? Although Oliver Peters is good, he’s still past his prime and was ripe for the pickings. And fortunately for you, you happen to have your turn. But it’s no use dwelling on the past, “Aubie Sweet-Cheeks.” It’s a new year. And with that, comes a clean slate. Which means, for you, you’re already on fucking red alert!
As she says the last few words, Reina’s shows an intense demeanor, staring at the camera as if she is directly talking to her opponent. A few moments later, after placing the towel around her neck, Reina’s mood lightens as she continues to speak.
Reina: When I was National Champion, that was the A Championship. It was revered out of respect and out of fear because I was the one who made that title that. God help what’s happening with it now. But now I don’t have to like it. But those who know me, including you “pixie bug” that I don’t have to sit and take anything at face value. I’m more of a woman who break faces as well as bodies. And I thought that Christmas was over because I am gifted with FOUR servings of fresh meat for me to feast on and make them all regret accepting this match and being in the same ring with me. That’s right Carmen (Leija), Reo (Ojima), Chris (Matthews), and you too Valentina (Skye). If this is what you consider me calling you out, so be it because I am.
Reina sits on the floor while continuing to speak.
Reina: You all can make an issue of the completely obvious size and strength advantage that I have over all of you and treat it like it’s some original, groundbreaking discovery. Let’s face it, physically and mentally, compared to me, you’re fucking ants. And for the first Mayhem of 2023, you find yourself in a mode of survival from this merciless giant! Stepping into her land, praying to God that you don’t get stepped on. Well, I’m going to be doing a lot more than stomping because my drought in being a champion has gone far enough. And I be DAMNED if I’m going to let ANY OF YOU taint my first match of the new year. Whether you are someone I can simply blow away or exhaust all my energy pounding you into mush, the bottom line is there is NO MERCY in this Gauntlet Eliminator. And in my eyes, the beating will all be the same. The very things that have put me into the wrecking machine people see me as now.
Reina takes a moment to crack her knuckles while taking a moment to pause. Reina then stands up, with the camera following suit as she continues to speak.
Reina: My mission this year is quite simple; to reinforce people to the fact of how much of a threat I am to the entire Zion roster and remind them that EVERYONE will be put on notice. I’ve been rampaging through the darkness for quite some time and now I will force my way into the light that should be shining on me. And at Mayhem, it will start with you four, with every aching bone in your body being a calling card to relay my message to the “pixie bug.” There will be many on this roster who will present strenuous challenges in this match. I know, I’m counting on it. But there is only ONE woman in this match who is a destructive force of nature. And at Mayhem you ALL are going to feel her presence…and PERISH underneath it.
Reina joins her palms together and bows her head before looking at the camera in a respectful manner.
Reina: Namaste.
Reina’s demeanor slowly becomes one of intense intimidation; the trademark precursor to the chaos she is prepared to inflict. Seconds later, she leaves the area, allowing the camera to focus on the interior of the studio before fading to black.
A hulking glint stuns and blinds the iris of any onlooker. Every soul is treated to an alluring scene as soon as their vision adjusts. We are stationed inside some sort of room. But there’s something peculiar about the place. Its spatial dimensions are nearly impossible to decipher due to the shining white porcelain coating the floors, walls, and ceiling.
The perfect alabaster field.
Ten fateful seconds tick away until footsteps reverberate throughout the area. The culprit? ‘Tis QUEEN Sakamoto, but of course. Her black blouse is protected by a stunning crimson leather flyaway jacket. A pair of form fitting pants reflect the jacket’s hue. Corresponding dress sandals bring the look together.
QUEEN Sakamoto: Brevity is the focus of this speech. Your attention is needed but for a few brief moments.
What of her voice? Calm and collected, per usual. But her demeanor? As frigid as the tundra.
QUEEN Sakamoto: Kasey Kash―
QUEEN Sakamoto: I imagine that you have been living on Cloud Nine for the past couple of weeks, hmm? Dozens of celebrations. Parties galore. A bevy of wreckless social media posts that you foolishly assumed I would not see.
The echo of her footsteps are heard as she walks forward.
QUEEN Sakamoto: But let me ask you something oh so very crucial, Kasey…
A brief pause follows.
QUEEN Sakamoto: Are you a man who pays his debts? Hmm?
She taps on her chin, partially awaiting some sort of answer. However, none rings out.
QUEEN Sakamoto: Hmm. Let’s be candid, shall we? Not a single soul on this planet would be uttering your name had it not been for me and my accomplishments with that championship belt. And no, that’s not a statement of hubris. ‘Tis simply the lord written gospel.
A small shake of the head follows.
QUEEN Sakamoto: I am the very woman who crossed through Zion’s door frame and liberated that championship from the jaws of mediocrity. I am the woman who valiantly quelled any and all competition week after week after week. I am the woman who tied the record for most consecutive successful defenses. And I am the woman who was wrongfully snubbed of all year end awards due to my barbaric and caustic nature.
That dark cloud of words pollutes the atmosphere for a period of time.
QUEEN Sakamoto: Kasey? Your glory was entirely paved by my hardships. You grabbed ahold of my coattails and used that minx to reach the top―
Her eyes narrow a bit as she peers into the camera’s lens.
QUEEN Sakamoto: And in truth, it’s difficult for me to be mad at that. I did state that I created a blueprint on how to conquer this company.
The snap of QUEEN’s fingers resembles the sound of a shotgun going off.
QUEEN Sakamoto: And yet, a blueprint necessitates proper credit and compensation. I haven’t received any from you.
A couple of seconds tick away as QUEEN tilts her head.
QUEEN Sakamoto: You have been living in debt with me for a number of weeks, Kasey. And this evening? I’ll be collecting what I am owed. Regardless of what the end result shall be, I am exiting that ring with a piece of your soul. You owe that much for your five minutes of fame.
Blackness dribbles down the screen until the entity of the scene is covered. That is when the camera fades out.
MATCH #4: REO OJIMA VS CARMEN LEIJA VS CHRIS MATTHEWS VS VALENTINA SKYE VS REINA MENDOZA
NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP #1 CONTENDER GAUNTLET ELIMINATOR
Carmen Leija and Chris Matthews start the match at #1 and #2 spot, with the duo immediately tying up in a Collar-and-Elbow! Matthews gets the advantage with a Waistlock, but Turbo quickly escapes with an Elbow to the side of the head! She follows up by sending him to the mat with a Snapmare, before quickly following up with a Dropkick to the side of the head! She rolls off the mat and to her feet from the move, immediately rushing over to the supine Matthews and nailing him with a Running Shooting Star Press! Pin by Turbo, only getting a two!
Turbo gets Matthews to his feet, backing him into the ropes before sending him across the ring with an Irish Whip! Matthews returns to Turbo leaping over her attempt to catch him with another move! He waits for Turbo to turn around, before rushing right into an attempted Arm Drag from the Shieldmaiden! Matthews reverses however, landing on his feet and dropping Turbo with an Arm Drag of his own! Turbo scrambles to her feet, immediately being scooped up and dropped with a Belly-to-Belly Suplex by Matthews! Turbo once again stumbles to her feet, this time finding balance in the corner! Matthews takes advantage of this, rushing over and nailing Turbo with a Lariat in the corner before throwing her across the ring with an Irish Whip to the opposite turnbuckles! He runs after her again, only to be cut off by her throwing a boot up into his face! He staggers back, with Turbo catching him with a Slingblade before the countdown timer starts up!
ENTRANT #3: REO OJIMA
The buzzer goes off and Reo Ojima makes his way down to the ring! Turbo rushes him almost immediately, with the Stone Gargoyle pushing her into the corner and immediately hammering away with strikes! Eventually Matthews comes to, attempting to pull Ojima away to inflict some damage! But Ojima immediately bursts to life on Matthews, pushing him back into the opposite corner and laying into him as well! Ojima now takes advantage of the positions of his opponents, rushing from corner to corner to wallop them both with Knife Edge Chops! This eventually sends Turbo crumbling to the mat, with Matthews stumbling to the center of the ring and leaving himself open to an Ojima Spinebuster! Ojima with the pin, with Matthews getting the shoulder up right before three!
Ojima shows a bit of frustration, looking to finish off Matthews for good by lifting him up for the Last Call! Matthews escapes the Running Powerslam attempt, pushing Ojima shoulder first into the ringpost instead! He crumbles to the mat now, with Turbo seeing an opportunity to strike by leaping from the top rope for the Turbo Boost! But Ojima gets the legs up, sending the soles of his boots right into Turbo’s face as she comes down! Matthews takes advantage, grabbing Turbo from behind and dropping her with a Butterfly Suplex! Ojima is back up now however, grabbing Matthews from behind and pushing him into the corner before getting in the Ojima Special (Chaos Theory into an Armbar)! The initial shock of Ojima’s surprise attack, combined with the relentless torque on the arm gets to be too much for Matthews, who opts to tap out and live to fight another day!
ELIMINATED: CHRIS MATTHEWS
Ojima stands over Matthews, using his foot to nudge him towards the ropes and out of the ring! He then directs his focus to Turbo, scooping her off the mat and preparing her for a Vertical Suplex as the countdown timer once again ticks down to zero!
ENTRANT #4: VALENTINA SKYE
Valentina Skye rushes to the ring, just in time for Turbo to slip Ojima’s grip and land behind him off the Suplex attempt! She pushes Ojima towards the ropes, with Skye catching him from the apron with a Forearm Strike across the head! He staggers back, with Turbo catching him with a Backstabber! Turbo makes it back to her feet, looking right into the eyes of Skye, who watches her from the apron! The two old rivals quickly come to realize that they're the only one’s standing currently, with the two immediately going for one another with unanimous strikes! Skye smacks Turbo across the head with a stiff Forearm, thinking she’s subdued the Las Olvidadas front-woman! But Turbo quickly retorts, catching Skye with an Enzigiri that sends her kneeling! Turbo looks to take advantage, hitting the ropes and rushing back towards Skye! But Skye catches her upon her return, drilling Turbo with a Lariat that turns her inside out! Skye goes for the pin, but Turbo lifts the shoulder up at two and a half!
Skye hardly has time to express frustration over this before Ojima scoops her up from behind and drops her with a German Suplex! He scoops Turbo up as she tries to recover as well, lifting her onto his shoulders before dropping her right on top of Skye with a Powerbomb! Ojima stacks the two up, going for a pin! The two both lift their shoulders at two, with Ojima being upset by this as the countdown timer ticks down once more!
ENTRANT #5: REINA MENDOZA
Ojima eggs the Tejana Giantess on as she rushes towards the ring with hopes of getting the jump on her! He pounces onto Mendoza with a set of strikes as she slides under the bottom rope, seemingly having the edge on the 6 foot 6 goliath! She’s eventually able to will her way out of the onslaught, pushing Ojima back before dropping him with a Spear as he attempts to get back on her! She pulls Ojima up to his feet, before nailing him with a Spinebuster right on top of a recovering Skye! She then catches an approaching Turbo with a Big Boot, followed closely by her lifting the Shieldmaiden up for a Powerbomb! Skye is back up to her feet now, with Mendoza launching Turbo right into her! Ojima rushes towards Mendoza, possibly looking to finally subdue her! But Mendoza scoops him right up, dropping him with the Crash & Burn (Fireman’s Carry Cutter)! Pin by Mendoza getting the three to score the second elimination of the match!
ELIMINATED: REO OJIMA
Mendoza now turns her attention to Turbo, who’s now reeling as the fatigue of coming in first is setting in! She goes for a swing to the Giantess, with her fist just falling short of its target, with Mendoza taking advantage by tossing her across the ring with a Belly-to-Belly Suplex! She gets Turbo off the mat again, this time pushing her back into the ropes and sending her across with an Irish Whip! Mendoza looks for a Big Boot, but Leija still has some fight left in her, ducking underneath it and hitting the opposite ropes in hopes of returning with a huge shot to Mendoza! But she’s having none of it, hitting the opposite ropes to Turbo before catching her as she returns with a Clothesline From Hell! Pin by Mendoza, with Turbo just getting the shoulder up before three!
Mendoza looks to finish off her prey at this point, getting her up on her shoulder in preparation for the Crash & Burn! But Turbo dismounts from the giant shoulders of Mendoza, pushing her from behind right into a Spear from Valentina Skye! She looks at the fallen Mendoza, then to Turbo, instructing her to go to the top rope before pulling Mendoza off the mat! She gets Mendoza in position, finding the strength to lift her up before dropping her right back to the mat with Sun’s Out (Glam Slam)! She flips Mendoza onto her back, leaving her open for Turbo to launch off the top rope with the Turbocharger (Phoenix Splash)! Turbo hooks the leg, with Skye climbing on top as the ref counts the three!
ELIMINATED: REINA MENDOZA
Skye and Turbo are both laid out on the mat, the two exhausted from the match so far! Turbo is more tired than Skye by this point, as evident from the fact that the Trinity member is already beginning to climb to her feet again! Turbo tries to get up as well, but Skye is already on her, laying into her with strikes as the Shieldmaiden begins to wear down! Skye pulls her up to her feet, dropping her to the mat before jumping onto her with a Moonsault! Pin by Skye, with Turbo kicking out at two and a half! Skye continues the onslaught, stomping on her prone body now before lifting her off the mat and dropping her with LA Lights (Diamond Cutter)! Pin by Skye, with Turbo getting a shoulder up just a hair before the referee hits the mat for the three!
This catches the attention of Aubrianna Powers, who’s surprised to see this tenacity from Turbo! She slowly leaves her headset with the commentary team as she advances towards the ring! Meanwhile, Skye has Turbo up, wrapping her hand around her throat in preparation for Skye’s Out! But Turbo sends her back with a kick, before stumbling into the turnbuckles and catching her breath again! Skye approaches, only for Turbo to send her into the turnbuckles in her place, nailing a stiff strike to the midsection again to keep her contained! She rolls out of the corner, before running back and nailing Skye with the Corner Hip Attack! She pushes Skye out of the corner now, allowing her to hit the mat as she proceeds to climb to the top rope! She launches off nailing Skye with the Turbocharger! Turbo goes for the pin, but just before the official slams his hand down for the three, Aubrianna Powers intervenes, pulling Turbo out of the ring by the ankle! The two come face to face, with it just sinking in what Powers has just done! She ditches her National Championship belt on the apron, before running away as Turbo gives chase! The pursuit eventually leads Powers into the ring, with Turbo hot on her tail! Before she can catch up to the champion however, Skye pops up, clocking her over the head with the National Championship belt! Skye quickly goes for the pin, noticing that Turbo is down for the count! The referee counts to the three, as this Gauntlet Eliminator is over!
Vivian Blake: The winner of this match…Valentina! Skye!
Winter Mae: Turbo perhaps put on the performance of a lifetime in this gauntlet, but Valentina Skye gets the win here after plentiful assistance!
Trick Morrison: Aubrianna Powers obviously found the only person in the bunch worthy of taking her on for her National Title and wanted to make sure we all got the match that we deserve!
Powers and Skye back up the ramp in celebration! Turbo stares daggers at them both from inside the ring, seething with anger! Meanwhile, Skye can’t help but give the National Championship a few fleeting glares as we fade.
WINNER: VALENTINA SKYE
RESULT: PINFALL
The scene opened backstage around the makeshift arena. Zara Ivory was leaning against an equipment crate just outside the Queens of Chaos locker room, having opted to use this camera time away from the others, minus her cousin/manager, Marley, who was sitting up on the equipment box behind Zara.
Zara Ivory: 90 days ago today, I walked into a ladder match for the Gateway Championship. I walked out that night as the champion and have proudly held this title since then.
Marley smiled as she nodded, listening to her cousin's words. She leaned forward and squeezed the champion's shoulder briefly before leaning back again to let Zara continue.
Zara Ivory: A mere few weeks after winning the Gateway Championship, I was put on the shelf because the kids from the C show wanted to throw a little hissy, bitch fit. But my fellow Queens and I reminded everyone why Mayhem is the A brand, the top show of Zion when we went to war and won. Then Zion had its holiday break, and Kaya, Lilith, and I went on to win more gold when we became the Trios Champions in NFW. And why? Because the Queens of Chaos are unlike anyone else.
Zara smirked a little before she shrugged a bit. While it wasn't a phrase she had come up with, it truly was one that fit the Queens in every aspect. The woman licked her lips a little before continuing.
Zara Ivory: Tonight, I defend this championship against a mystery opponent, but you can bet all of your pretty little asses that I'll be walking out, still, the Gateway Champion. After that? Well that's just something everyone will have to wait and see. I may just hold onto this for a little while…who knows?
Zara adjusted the Gateway Championship on her shoulder, giving it a quick glance and small pat after doing so. She glanced back at her cousin and gave the other woman a little nod/head tilt. Marley pushed herself up and off of the equipment crate, landing on her feet next to Zara with a smirk.
Zara Ivory: Let's go find out who my next victim is, shall we, Marley? I'm quite intrigued to see who I'm defending this against. I just hope they're ready for me.
Marley Divata: Z, no one is ever really ready for you no matter who they are. But yes, let's see who this mystery opponent is.
The two women linked arms, grins on both of their faces as they walked down the hallway. The scene faded out as the two women continued down the hallway and out of sight.
Vivian Blake: The following contest…is scheduled for one fall!
Crowd: ONE FALL!!
Vivian Blake: And it is for the Zion Wrestling…GATEWAY! CHAMPIONSHIP!
Introducing first…representing The Queens of Chaos…from Richmond, Virginia…weighing in at 131 lbs…she is the Zion Wrestling GATEWAY! CHAMPION!...”Train Wreck”...ZARA! IVORY!
Winter Mae: Zara Ivory is coming to the ring on her 90th day as Gateway Champion! After tonight, she’ll be eligible to trade in that title for any belt on Mayhem!
Trick Morrison: Yeah, but before that she has to beat an opponent with the element of surprise on their side! She could very well fall just short of the goalpost!
Vivian Blake: And her opponent…from Tokyo, Japan…weighing in at 99 lbs…Sakura! Matsuda!
Winter Mae: Sakura Matsuda making her debut on Mayhem following a brief stint on BRKTHRU! Let’s see how she does against the Gateway Champion!
Trick Morrison: Did the cue card writers make a typo, or did I just hear Vivian Blake say that Sakura Matsuda weighs 99 pounds?! This poor girl’s about to get bounced around like a basketball!
Both Ivory and Matsuda advance to the center of the ring to start this one off, with the champion becoming a bit condescending at the size of her challenger! This clearly annoys Matsuda, who takes the high road and opts to circle the ring to get this match started rather than get immediately violent! The two eventually converge in the center of the ring, going for a Collar-and-Elbow Tie Up! Matsuda catches Ivory by surprise, quickly getting her in a Side Headlock to overpower her! Ivory quickly reverses however, pushing Matsuda back into the ropes before sending her off across the ring! Matsuda returns, dropping like a ton of bricks as Ivory takes her down with a Shoulder Block! Ivory hits the adjacent ropes, with Matsuda going for the Drop Down to throw her off! Ivory hops over the prone Matsuda, hitting the ropes before returning to a Hurricanrana from the challenger! Ivory uses the ropes to pull herself back to her feet, with Matsuda looking to send her over with a Clothesline! But Ivory reverses, hoisting Matsuda up and hitting her with a Stun Gun! Matsuda staggers away from the ropes, with Ivory taking her from behind and dropping her with a German Suplex! She bridges for the pin!
ONE…!
TWO…!
Shoulder up by Matsuda, but Ivory refuses to release the Waistlock she has on the opponent, rolling through and looking for another German Suplex! But Matsuda reverses in mid-air, sending Ivory to the mat with a Side Headlock Takeover! Ivory quickly reverses, getting her legs up and wrapping them around Matsuda’s head for the Headscissor, sending her shoulders to the mat! Matsuda kicks out before the official can go for the count, and the two get back to their feet! Matsuda rushes after Ivory, with the Train Wreck dodging her challenger and sending her into the ropes! Matsuda uses her athleticism now, going for a Handspring against the ropes before jumping backwards towards Ivory! This leaves an open for Ivory to catch her on her shoulders in a Torture Rack position! The champion throws Matsuda off her shoulders for a move, but she reverses, catching Ivory with a DDT on the way down! Pin by Matsuda!
ONE…!
TWO…!
Kick out by Ivory! Matsuda gets Ivory to her feet, throwing her towards the ropes with an Irish Whip! But Ivory turns the tables, sending Matsuda into the ropes instead! Ivory hunches over as she anticipates Matsuda’s return! But Matsuda rolls over Ivory’s back, before catching her from behind with an O’Connor Roll Pin!
ONE…!
TWO…!
Ivory reverses, shifting the weight and getting Matsuda in an O’Connor Roll of her own!
ONE…!
TWO…!
Kick out by Matsuda! Ivory is sent forward off the momentum of the kick out, charging back toward Matsuda and being met with a stiff Superkick! Ivory staggers back into the ropes, with Matsuda sending her over with a Clothesline! Matsuda sees her opportunity here, waiting for Ivory to reach her feet again before hitting the ropes and looking for a Suicide Dive! Ivory sidesteps her however, sending her careening into the barricade! Matsuda tries getting to her feet, with Ivory rushing over and nailing her with Team of Misfits! Spear turns her inside out! She gets Matsuda off the floor at ringside, throwing her into the ring and going for the pin!
ONE…!
TWO…!
THREE-
Shoulder up by Matsuda! Ivory look shocked that such a devastating move didn’t put her away! But she doesn’t let up, quickly taking to the corner before leaping up to the top rope! She waits for Matsuda to get to her feet before attempting Obliteration! But Matsuda catches Ivory, pushing her away before catching her as she approaches with a Pump Kick, before collapsing to the mat herself! It takes her a few seconds to crawl over to Ivory for the pin!
ONE…!
TWO…!
THREE-
Kick out by Ivory! Matsuda looks exhausted now, slowly climbing to the top rope before she leaps off for the Eagle Dive! But Ivory gets the knees up, damaging the elbow Matsuda attempted to send into her chest! The weakening of the arm helps Ivory tremendously, as she hooks the arms from behind and drops Matsuda with In A Daze! Tiger Suplex connects! Ivory isn’t finished however, climbing to the top rope and launching off to hit Matsuda with Violence Causes Silence! Frog Splash connects! Ivory hooks the leg!
ONE…!
TWO…!
THREE!!
Vivian Blake: The winner of this match…and STILL the Zion Wrestling GATEWAY! CHAMPION!...ZARA! IVORY!!
Trick Morrison: Another win by the Gateway Champion, and now a championship match in her back pocket for whenever she chooses to go for it!
Winter Mae: But take nothing away from Sakura Matsuda! She brought it tonight, and there’s no doubt she just made a believer out of a lot of people, myself included!
Ivory is handed the Gateway Championship, with the Train Wreck holding it over her head in celebration. Eventually, she approaches Matsuda, helping her to her feet and talking to her for a moment! The two shake hands, with Ivory raising the hand of Mayhem’s newest acquisition out of respect as we fade.
WINNER: ZARA IVORY (#ANDSTILL)
RESULT: PINFALL
Vivian Blake: The following contest…is your MAIN EVENT…and it for the ZION! WRESTLING! CHAMPIONSHIP!
A low murmur emanates from the crowd as the lights dim to a very low level. About fifteen seconds pass before the entryway fills with smoke. Another few moments tick by before voice screams out:
"All Hail the QUEEN!"
The jazzy piano strokes of SOIL & “PIMP” SESSIONS' “Valley of the Light” fill the arena. A solitary spotlight rains down upon the base of the entrance ramp. Five seconds elapse before QUEEN Sakamoto makes her way out from the back. She stands in the spotlight for a couple of moments and adjusts her ring jacket before she treks to the ring. Her pace is slow and there's an arrogance in her demeanor as she moves.
QUEEN leaps onto the ring apron as she gets close to it. She rests her arms on the top rope for a moment; a few seconds pass before she hops over it. QUEEN strolls around the ring for a bit, but she eventually makes her way to the center. She closes her eyes and spreads her arms in order to allow the audience to view her in all her glory. Afterwards, she makes her way to a neutral corner and removes her ring jacket.
The sounds of an electric guitar begin screeching throughout the speakers of the arena, after a few beats have gone the track cuts to just the drums, followed by the opening lyrics…
WHAT IF IT’S ABOUT YOU?!
At that moment, Kasey Kash marches through the curtains and into the center of the stage, where he stands for a few moments, looking out over the crowd in the arena, smirking, before holding his arms out wide and soaking in the reaction from the crowd.
At that point, Kasey would lower his arms and begin walking down the ramp, paying no mind to the fans either side of him. He makes his way to ringside, where he begins to walk around to the side of the ring facing the hardcam, hopping up on the ring apron and looking out over the crowd just as the breakdown of the song begins to build, going through the ropes and standing in the center of the ring, squatting down low as the breakdown builds.
PRETEND! YOU ARE NOT GUILTY!
PRETEND! YOU DON’T SEE THIS SHIT!
PRETEND! THIS IS NOT YOUR WAR!
PRETEND!
FUCK!
And as the breakdown kicks in, Kasey does the signature Mitch Lucker Stomp in the center of the ring, looking around at the crowd, before making his way to the corner of the ring and sitting on the bottom turnbuckle, waiting for the match to begin.
Vivian Blake: Introducing first…from Niigata, Japan…weighing in at 130 lbs…QUEEN! Sakamoto!
And her opponent…from Canberra, Australia…weighing in at 165 lbs…he is the ZION! WRESTLING! CHAMPION!...KASEY! FUCKING! KASH!
Winter Mae: And for those who are concerned, we do have an update on the condition of Nami Megumi. She has been rushed to the nearest hospital following that vicious and shocking attack by Maki Megumi earlier in the night. It is feared that she may have Severe Concussion. We at Zion wish her all the best in her recovery.
Kash doesn’t hesitate off the bell, rushing into Sakamoto’s corner and nailing her with a Yakuza Kick! He immediately capitalizes, getting Sakamoto in position before dropping her in the center of the ring with a Blue Thunder Bomb! Pin by Kash!
ONE…!
TWO…!
Kick out by Sakamoto! Kash gets Sakamoto to her feet, throwing her towards the ropes and waiting for her return! Sakamoto ducks underneath a Lariat attempt from Kash, before hitting the ropes again before jumping up and nailing Kash with a Hurricanrana! This lines Kash up with the turnbuckles, with Sakamoto taking advantage by rushing over and sending him into the corner with a Shotgun Dropkick! Sakamoto paces around the ring, regaining her bearings a bit before rushing over to a seated Kash in the corner! But Kash counters, sending a foot up and plunging it into her midsection! He pulls himself up to the second rope, getting a hold of Sakamoto before driving her head into the mat with a Tornado DDT! Another pin by Kash!
ONE…!
TWO…!
Kick out by Sakamoto! Kash drags the former champion up to her feet, looking for an Exploder Suplex into the corner! But Sakamoto escapes, pushing Kash into the corner before catching him as he returns with a Belly-to-Belly Suplex! She quickly takes to the top rope, waiting for Kash to get back to his feet before launching off and hitting him with a Meteora! She hooks the legs, going for a Rana pin!
ONE…!
TWO…!
Kash reverses, pushing Sakamoto to the mat for a Sit Out Pin!
ONE…!
TWO…!
Kick out by Sakamoto, who rolls back to her feet and nails a seated Kash with a Basement Dropkick! Kash rolls out of the ring, with Sakamoto climbing out of the ring after him! She attempts to throw Kash into the barricade, but he reverses, sending her into the ringpost instead! It’s then that he notices a familiar face in the crowd, as ISIS stands in the front row amongst the New York fans, her Universal Contract in hand! Kash stares down The God of Destruction, completely aware of what brings here for this particular match! He advises her not to pick the fight she’s thinking of picking before turning his attention back to Sakamoto, who’s already come to and is ready to attack! She blasts Kash with a Forearm Strike before throwing him right into the steel steps! She stands over the fallen champion, advising him to keep his eye on her, claiming to be his biggest current threat! She throws Kash back into the ring, immediately climbing to the top rope and jumping off to nail him with her signature Rounding Splash! Pin by Sakamoto!
ONE…!
TWO…!
THRE-
Kick out by Kash! Sakamoto prepares to end this, nudging her boot underneath a fallen Kash’s chin before using it to guide him up to his feet! She looks to finally reclaim her gold, going for the Magnum Opus! But Kash ducks underneath the Brazilian Kick, quickly responding with a Superkick of his own! This shot turns Sakamoto around, with Kash getting her in position and hitting her with Fuck You and All Your Friends! Ripcord Bicycle Knee connects! Pin by Kash!
ONE…!
TWO…!
THRE-
Kick out by Sakamoto! Kash is ready to end this one however, hitting the ropes before attempting the Lucker Stomp! But Sakamoto snatches the champion out of midair, dumping him on the mat with a Sit Out Powerbomb! She lines up her shot, seemingly looking for a Cartwheel Knee Drop! It’s by this point that Sakamoto takes notice of ISIS, who has now vacated her spot behind the barricade in favor of advancing towards the ringside area! Sakamoto quickly leaves the ring, stepping up to ISIS and telling the woman to leave, not wanting her to blow her chances in this match with the contract she now possesses! ISIS doesn’t budge however, instead smiling and patting Sakamoto on the head, accentuating the near foot of height she has over the former Zion Champion! Sakamoto responds angrily, putting her hand to ISIS’ face and pushing her back, before heading into the ring! She immediately gets cut off by a recovered Kash, who rushes up and nails her with No Pressure! Running Blockbuster connects! He doesn’t stop there however, hitting the ropes before nailing her with the Lucker Stomp! Curb Stomp catches her! Kash with the pin!
ONE…!
TWO…!
THREE!!
Vivian Blake: The winner of this match…and STILL the ZION! WRESTLING! CHAMPION!...KASEY! FUCKING! KASH!
Winter Mae: Kasey Kash retains the Zion Wrestling Championship tonight over a tough challenger! You can only imagine that the Canberran Anti-Christ feels good about setting the tone for his title reign here!
Trick Morrison: QUEEN Sakamoto took her eye off the ball for a moment and it cost her! I understand not wanting to leave anything to chance, but Kasey Kash is the last person in Zion Wrestling you wanna turn your back on!
Kash is handed the Zion Wrestling Championship belt, however the only thing he can seem to focus on is the ringside area, as ISIS slowly approaches the ring! She climbs inside, with Kash almost demanding that she sign the contract to make their Championship Match official! Despite him inviting the challenge, however, it seems ISIS has appeared in the ring for a different reason, slamming QUEEN Sakamoto with a Lariat just as she got up! Kash looks on in shock, not sure what to make of this development!
ISIS lays into Sakamoto with stomps, seemingly as recompense for the disrespect shown by her earlier! Kash looks on at all of this, deciding to exit the ring and not get involved! ISIS hoists Sakamoto up, dropping her with Welcome to Dystopia and standing over her to close out the show!
WINNER: KASEY KASH (#ANDSTILL)
RESULT: PINFALL
Zion Wrestling © 2020
