Post by Kai Morgan on Jan 27, 2023 3:22:59 GMT
As the opening video closes, the lights to the Fertitta Center go out, the stage illuminating to the beat of the second half of the second verse!
We looked at the price tag, and it's one we can't afford
We were taught that progression means accumulating more…
Just then, the arena bursts to life, with lights spanning the entire arena as we pan over a raving crowd packing the stands! We go to the commentary booth where Eddie Red Apples and Amber Westgate are standing by!
Eddie Red Apples: We just about one week away from seeing 30 competitors put it all on the line in the Las Vegas Strip! But for now, we come to you live from the Grand Canyon State as the Blue Crew brings you some excitement to start your weekend! Welcome everyone…to Friday Night Fusion! I’m Eddie Red Apples, joined by Amber Westgate!
Amber Westgate: Next weekend is gonna be a big one, but that doesn’t mean tonight isn’t stacked as well! We have the Fusion debut of Ricky Rodriguez, as well as three championship matches, one of which is gonna start us off tonight!
The camera is focused on one of the Zion World Tag Team Championship belts, sitting on a locker room bench. It's clean and shiny and it's clear from its pristine condition that it's owner values it a lot. The hand of Taylor Gibson reaches down to grab the belt before lifting it out of shot. The camera pulls back, showing the reigning and defending tag team Champions; Thotline Miami. Taylor fastens her belt around her waist and takes a deep breath. Her partner; Cindy Collins smiles eagerly.
Cindy Collins:
I think we might have jinxed ourselves last week talking about how many good teams are gunning for us, Taylor.
Taylor Gibson:
Yeah. The frickin' Crown. They're majorly tough.
Taylor has a pained expression on her face.
Cindy Collins:
Yeah, they are. They're tough individually and maybe even tougher as a team. But they're not as tough as us though. They were the best team in Zion… once. But it's not their time anymore.
Taylor Gibson:
You're damn right! It's ourrrrrr tiiiiiime! It's gonna be our whole year! Hell, I beat Daria Dorsey last week and she's one of the best Zion has ever had!
Cindy Collins:
Exactly. So who the hell cares if The Crown are trying to take our titles off us, bring 'em on I say.
Taylor Gibson:
Yeah! It doesn't matter if it's The Crown, Killer Instinct, House of Wolves, Hebi no Rengo, Goode/Khaos…
Cindy shakes her head from side to side quickly and makes a gesture across her neck with her hand at the last name listed.
Taylor Gibson:
Oh…
There's a brief pause.
Taylor Gibson:
Well anyway, it doesn't matter who comes after us. If people want to keep on doubting us, we'll just keep proving them wrong…
Taylor holds up her left hand and Cindy places her palm against Taylor's, locking their fingers together as the two sing the famous Cyndi Lauper line.
Taylor and Cindy:/color]
Time after time…
The girls giggle and hurry out of the locker room excitedly as the camera fades to black.
OPENING CONTEST: THE CROWN VS THOTLINE MIAMI ©
WORLD TAG TEAM CHAMPIONSHIPSAlex Lawson: The following tag team contest…is scheduled for one fall!
Crowd: ONE FALL!
Alex Lawson: And it is for the Zion Wrestling WORLD! TAG TEAM! CHAMPIONSHIPS!
Introducing first, the challengers…at a combined weight of 297 lbs…the team of Ashlynn Cassidy and Eden Sterling…The Crown!
And their opponents…from Miami, Florida…at a combined weight of 222 lbs…they are the Zion Wrestling WORLD! TAG TEAM! CHAMPIONS!...THOTLINE! MIAMI!
Taylor Gibson and Ashlynn Cassidy start this match against one another, with the two more technically proficient members of their teams circling the ring and sizing up their opponent! The draw closer, getting a quick handshake in! The two seem to have done their homework on one another, keeping a bit of distance from one another otherwise! Eventually, the two stick their arms out, slowly approaching each other in the middle of the ring before locking hands! It’s then that Cassidy springs into action, catching Gibson off guard with a Wristlock! She quickly transitions, twisting Gibson right into a Hammerlock! The champion struggles as her arm is forced between her shoulder blades, leading to her going for a collection of Elbow Strikes to the side of Cassidy’s head with her free arm! This loosens Cassidy’s grip, leaving an opening for Gibson to take her to the mat with a Side Headlock Takeover! Cassidy struggles in the hold for a moment, eventually bringing her shoulders to the mat to relieve some of the pressure!
ONE…!
TWO…!
Shoulders up by Cassidy! This begins the process of her working her way back to her feet! She pushes herself up with Gibson still latched onto her head, eventually managing to push her away and towards the ropes! Gibson hits the ropes, ducking underneath a Lariat as she returns to Cassidy before rebounding off the ropes again for a Shoulder Block that sends her to the mat! Gibson looks to pivot now, hitting the adjacent ropes to follow up! But Cassidy catches her off guard with a Drop Down, causing Gibson to leap over her and hit the ropes again instead! Gibson returns, with Cassidy sending her down with a Leaping Back Elbow! Pin by Cassidy!
ONE…!
TWO…!
Kick out by Gibson! Cassidy stays on her, cinching in a Rear Chinlock off the pin! It’s at this point that a safe haven opens up for Gibson, with Cindy Collins reaching for the tag right in her line of vision! She tries to work her way out of the hold, twisting herself up to her feet until she reaches a position to send Cassidy away with a set of Elbows to the midsection! Cassidy staggers back into her corner as Gibson crawls towards hers! However, this tag attempt is quickly cut off by Eden Sterling, who tags in off Cassidy’s shoulder and lifts her off the mat for a Deadlift German Suplex! Gibson is able to escape this however, landing on her feet off the throw before jumping up and looking for a Double Foot Stomp to a grounded Sterling to follow up! Sterling moves out of the way however, with Gibson landing awkwardly on her ankle upon the miss! She reels for a bit, drawing herself towards the corner for support as she favors the ankle! This leaves an opening for Sterling to attack, clubbing Gibson with a corner Clothesline before launching her out of the corner with an Exploder Suplex! Pin by Sterling!
ONE…!
TWO…!
Kick out by Gibson! Sterling immediately transitions however, maintaining a grip on the hooked leg of Gibson and getting her into an Ankle Lock! Sterling has the hold cinched in on the damaged ankle of Gibson! She tries to drag herself across the ring and towards the ropes, but Sterling cuts her off at every turn, eventually dropping to the mat to grapevine the hold! Gibson eventually escapes, rolling to her back and getting a good angle to cut into Sterling with a few Kicks to the jaw with the good leg! Sterling eventually releases the hold, with Gibson crawling for the corner before jumping up to tag in Cindy Collins!
Collins rushes the ring like a house of fire, immediately leathering Sterling with a Lariat! She quickly turns her attention to Cassidy, nailing her with a Forearm that sends her flying off the apron! Sterling tries to get back into this, looking for a Lariat of her own to Collins! But she ducks underneath, getting her arms around Sterling’s waist before dropping her to the mat with a German Suplex! Sterling rolls to her knees, with Collins quickly following up by hitting the ropes and nailing her with a Hesitation Dropkick! Collins goes for the pin!
ONE…!
TWO…!
Kick out by Sterling! She’s still a bit loopy however, slowly staggering back up to her feet as Collins approaches from behind! She grabs Sterling’s arms, looking for Broken Wings! But Sterling uses her strength to fight back, pulling Collins in and getting her right on her back! She rolls forwards with Collins in tow, steamrolling her on the mat before quickly tagging in Cassidy! She climbs to the top rope, with Sterling giving her the assist as she goes for a Frog Splash on Collins! Pin by Cassidy!
ONE…!
TWO…!
Pin broken up by GIbson! Sterling grabs Gibson up, looking for a Powerbomb! But Gibson fights back with a few punches to the top of the head, leaning them towards the ropes before sending them both toppling over to ringside with a Hurricanrana! Meanwhile, Cassidy looks to finish things off, pulling Collins up in position before going for Period, Peace! She pushes her out for the Ripcord, only for Collins to spring into action, pulling Cassidy in out of nowhere and nailing her with the South Beach Stiletto! Eat Defeat connects! Pin by Collins!
ONE…!
TWO…!
Eden Sterling recovers, shaking off the cobwebs in time to re-enter the ring. But Taylor Gibson is on top of her, grabbing her by the ankle just in the nick of time and keeping her from the ring!
THREE!!
Alex Lawson: The winners of this match…and STILL Zion Wrestling WORLD! TAG TEAM! CHAMPIONS!...THOTLINE! MIAMI!
Eddie Red Apples: Huge win here for Thotline Miami tonight, and against a seasoned team in The Crown!
Amber Westgate: Say what you want about em, Eddie, but tag team wrestling is Gibson and Collins bread and butter! They know exactly how to get it done between the ropes in that regard, especially when the titles are on the line!
Gibson and Collins celebrate together as we fade!
WINNERS: THOTLINE MIAMI (#ANDSTILL)
RESULT: PINFALL (SOUTH BEACH STILETTO)
Backstage at the Footprint Center, the camera person navigated those halls, seemingly looking for someone. Along the way, they passed several members of the Fusion roster but still, none of them were the one they were looking for. Until finally, the target had been acquired.
Stopping once they got to the catering arena, they came upon a rather..different sight. Ricky Rodriguez was criss-cross applesauce seated on top of a table. He had a whole spread of snacks surrounding him: A pint of mint chocolate chip ice cream, a plate of various cookies and brownies, a bag of pork rinds, and a big bag of wild berry Skittles.
And that young man was just going to town on his snacks, not a single care in the world. But of course, whenever someone walked by, Ricky would offer them something from his array. That is, until he noticed the camera person. He perked up, looking directly at them, not even noticing the smudge of ice cream at the corner of his mouth.
Ricky Rodriguez: 'Ohhhhi~'
Eating another spoonful of that ice cream, he stabbed his spoon into the ice cream. Straightening his posture a bit, he had a bright, almost childlike smile plastered across his face.
Ricky Rodriguez: 'Don't mind me, just gettin in a lilbit of a pre match snack. Gotta get my energy up and goin for when I get out there against Chelsea Skye. I've been superrr stoked for this ever since it was announced. Pushed all the other bullshit goin on to the side and I've focused on givin you the best possible match I can..'
His words trailed off as he reached over and grabbed up a cookie. But before he could take a bite from it, an off camera hand grabbed it right out of his hand. Ricky gasped, looking damn near flabbergasted until he looked at who that hand belonged to. The cameraperson zoomed out a bit, revealing that it to be Ashlynn Cassidy. Ricky looked at her with a bright smile as she ate that cookie.
Ricky Rodriguez: 'You're lucky you're you.'
Sliding some of those snacks out of the way, Ricky climbed off of that table, dropping off of it and landing on his feet with a thud. Ash laughed at what he said as the pair wrapped their arms around one another, sharing a brief kiss.
Ashlynn Cassidy: 'Extremely lucky.'
Ricky Rodriguez: 'You and me both.'
Another brief kiss was shared between them as they pulled back a step or two.
Ashlynn Cassidy: 'I just wanted to catch you before your match and wish you luck. Your big match back and your first match on Fusion? You're going to do great, though. I know it.'
Her words were confident with that reassuring tone to them, causing a proud smile to grow out across his face. Ricky nodded his head firmly, agreeing with Ashlynn.
Ricky Rodriguez: 'You're right tho. Not only is it a return, it's kinda a debut too. But even past that, Chelsea is unbelievable in that ring. A win against her sends a fuckin huge message. A message that I wanna send.'
Each word spoken by Ricky seemingly hyped the man more and more as he spoke them. Ashlynn picked up on this and looked utterly pleased with the sight.
Ashlynn Cassidy: 'You got this, baby. Go show her who you are.'
Hyped up to the max, Ricky cheered out, grabbing Ashlynn up in a hug, bringing her up off of her feet. Setting her back down, he gave her a quick kiss.
Ricky Rodriguez: 'I'll see you after, beautifulsss~'
And with that, Ricky damn near ran off, overly excited about his match. Ashlynn stood there for a moment, looking at the pile of snacks Ricky left on the table. Giving a shrug of her shoulders, she sat down at the table.
Ashlynn Cassidy: 'Can't let this go to waste.'
The scene faded away as Ashlynn began to have her way with that array of junk food.
MATCH #2: RICKY RODRIGUEZ VS CHELSEA SKYE
Skye and Rodriguez start this match fiercely, with a lock up quicking turning into a battle of acrobats! Rodriguez gets a Waistlock on Skye, only for her to reverse with one of her own! She quickly looks to transition, leaping onto Rodriguez’s shoulders for a Poisonrana! But Rodriguez drops her down in front of him, quickly getting her in position before dropping her with a Half-and-Half Suplex! He goes for the pin, only getting a two count! He pulls Skye to her feet, throwing her into the corner before charging up and looking for a Running Shoulder Thrust! But Skye gets out of the way, sending Rodriguez crashing shoulder first into the ring post instead! She quickly follows up, looking for a Blue Thunder Bomb! But Rodriguez reverses with Hurricanrana off the lift, with Skye having to do a frontflip off of it to stay vertical! She quickly catches Rodriguez with a Superkick, going for the pin and only getting the two count!
Skye stays on Rodriguez, getting him to his feet and looking for a Powerslam! But he lands on his feet off the move, rolling forward before catching Skye with a Drop Toe Hold that leaves her hanging on the middle rope! Rodriguez takes advantage, hitting the ropes before nailing Skye with Dropkick! She crumbles to the mat, with Rodriguez boosting himself up using the ropes before landing on Skye with an Elbow Drop! Pin by Rodriguez, but it’s too close to the ropes, with Skye getting her foot on it before three!
Rodriguez looks to finish this off, twisting Skye’s arm in hopes of hitting his signature Double Knee Armbreaker! But she fights back, clubbing him with a Forearm to fight him off before hitting the ropes and nailing For Justin (Slingblade)! She isn’t finished however, climbing to the top rope before going for Skye’s the Limit! But Rodriguez rolls out of the way, leaving her to faceplant on the mat! He quickly swoops in, locking Skye into Reflection (Rings of Saturn)! In the middle of the ring, with nowhere to go, Skye gives up the ghost and taps out!
Alex Lawson: The winner of this match, via submission…Ricky! Rodriguez!
Eddie Red Apples: A fantastic debut for Ricky Rodriguez on the Fusion brand!
Amber Westgate: He’s won titles on Mayhem and BRKTHRU, and with performances like that, I don’t see that trend stopping on the Blue Brand!
Rodriguez celebrates as we fade!
WINNER: RICKY RODRIGUEZ
RESULT: SUBMISSION (REFLECTION)
Meliana Rodrigo
"Hello there, tonight we have Daria Dorsey here with me. Last week you went against one half of the tag team champions, Taylor Gibson, and you had come up short in what many would call an upset. How are you feeling, lately?"
Daria was in one of her T-shirts, still available at Zionshop dot com, and jeans, as she was not scheduled to compete tonight. She was a bit annoyed having to talk about a loss, but, brushed it off.
Daria Dorsey
"Well, Mel, I can't say I'm thrilled to talk about it. But, I can't cut Taylor short. She's very gifted, and capitalized off a mistake I made. Anything can happen in this business, but, we all learn and grow…"
Daria would reply, as Meliana would ask another question to her.
Meliana Rodrigo
"Just an observation, Daria… But, you've had a downslope of momentum lately…"
Daria would cut her off a bit with a soft chuckle as she didn't want to talk about losses.
Daria Dorsey
"Look, it happens in sports. Just need a big win to get back on track is all!"
She said to reassure her, as we hear Hayumi Yamamoto walking into the scene and twirling her parasol behind her head, as she was prepared to face off against Legion shortly.
Hayumi Yamamoto
"You were one of the most ruthless submission experts in all of Zion, Daria. No one defended the title more than you…"
She said, before pointing at the center of Daria's chest.
Hayumi Yamamoto
"But, you've grown weak. You're not a threat anymore… just tame like a sheep, pandering to the masses."
Daria would smack Hayumi's finger away, with a cold glare at the Trios champion.
Daria Dorsey
"Oh, forgive me for not being a psychopath, Hayumi…"
Hayumi Yamamoto
"Psychopath? No, the crazy one is Legion. She doesn't understand the danger she is in stepping into the ring with me. I'm going to vanquish the former champion… and if you dare to defy me, you'll meet the same fate."
Hayumi stated, as she would walk past them with a wicked smile on her face, as we fade out.
We cut to the backstage area and it is there where we are able to see Crystal Caldwell. She cracks a wicked grin as she stands there with her hands on her hips.
Crystal Caldwell: Long before my adoring public it is yours truly. I am the Charismatic Cosplayer, the Amazing Actress, 4C CHAMP CHAMP CRYSTAL CALDWELL. I am going to be the first one to admit that things really didn’t go as well as I had hoped for them to go last week. I didn’t see myself getting pinned and out of the rumble match before it even begun. That’s not the way to start the year and it is certainly not where I want to be in 2023.
Crystal takes a long deep breath as she continues to speak.
Crystal Caldwell: I would say that life has been amazing for the most part. I am STILL your Splat Multiverse Champion and that is a blessing. I hold three championships and I have been on a war path. I am gunning to be the best of the best, but as great as I have been there is still something that plagues me. I still haven’t gotten what I wanted out of Zion Wrestling. I haven’t really positioned myself in the right direction since that feud with Zach Porter. That seems so long ago and I know for a fact that I can be so much better than where I have been. I want more out of this company. If I can’t find my way to be in the rumble there is still something more out there and that is where I point the finger at Morgana.
Crystal chuckles as she speaks some more.
Crystal: Anyway I can sit here and talk for a long time but the fact is I know what I want and I am nto going to rest until I get it. Morgana at some point you and I will dance, and when we do I will finally beat you!
MATCH #3: HAYUMI YAMAMOTO VS LEGION
MADNESS RUMBLE QUALIFYING MATCH
Legion makes her entrance, only to get immediately bombarded by Hebi No Rengo! The three throw her into the ring, once again laying in the three-on-one assault! Just then however, Danae and Kassandra make their way down the ramp, fighting off Akira Fujimoto and Lien Kamiya! The official asks Legion if she wants to continue, with The Queen of The Hive not even listening to the full question before yelling yes!
Yamamoto immediately goes to pick the bones of Legion, sending her to the mat with a Big Boot before stomping her out of the mat until the referee separates them to check on Legion! She pushes the official away however, before pouncing onto Yamamoto with a set of vicious strikes to return fire! She backs Yamamoto into a corner, before running over and landing a High Knee Strike! She quickly follows up, going for a Running Bulldog! But Yamamoto pushes her away, sending her into the opposite corner before catching her as she returns with a Lariat! The shot turns Legion inside out, with Yamamoto going for a pin that renders a two count!
Yamamoto pulls Legion to her feet, grabbing her by the head and applying a set of heavy Knee Strikes to the face until she’s backed into the corner! She continues the onslaught, nailing her with a set of Chops to the chest, before graduating to Shoulder Thrusts that nearly cut her in half across the turnbuckle! The official once again steps in, causing Yamamoto to get even more angry with the officiating as she shoves him back and causes him to collapse to the mat! She then boosts Legion to the top rope, looking to take her down to the mat with a Superplex! She quickly realizes that she’d regret pushing away the referee, with him not getting a chance to see Legion spit a cloud of red mist right into her eyes! She falls from the top rope, leaving an opening for Legion to hit Knightfall (Twisted Bliss)! Pin by Legion, getting the victory!
Alex Lawson: The winner of this match…Legion!
Legion hardly has time to celebrate before Lien Kamiya and Akir Fujimoto return, laying into her with stomps on the mat before helping a still screaming Yamamoto to her feet! Danae and Kassanadra return to help Legion, only to be quickly sent away by dual Superkicks from Kamiya and Fujimoto that send them from the apron! They stand tall over Legion, helping Yamamoto out of the ring as we fade!
WINNER: LEGION
RESULT: PINFALL (KNIGHTFALL)
Alex Lawson: The winners of this match…Nao Saegusa, Ayu Megumi, and the Zion Wrestling World! Heavyweight! Champion!...ARIA!!
Eddie Red Apples: An amazing match, made baffling by Hana Kaneko’s display at the end there!
Amber Westgate: Hana Kaneko seems to have walked out on Avalanche! But nevertheless, this grueling contest nets us a winner! The heroes rule the day!
Megumi and Saegusa are still recovering, leaving ARIA to celebrate alone as she holds her World Heavyweight Championship high! Just then however, someone rushes in and attacks ARIA, leaving her laid out with a Big Boot! We pan over to see that it’s…Cassie Lopez!
Eddie Red Apples: What the hell is Cassie Lopez doing here?! And now?!
Lopez grabs the World Heavyweight Championship belt off the mat, taking a good look at it before raising it over her head to the boos of the crowd!
Amber Westgate: That right there says it all, Eddie! Cassie Lopez has arrived on Fusion, and it seems as though she’s calling her shot at the top of the brand early!
Lopez dumps the belt onto the prone champion, leaving ARIA laid out on the mat as she makes her exit! The show fades to black, with the visual of Saegusa and Megumi swarming ARIA to offer help!
~~~~~~~~~
The scene changes to the inside of a dressing room as Cassie Lopez is standing firmly in front of the camera, looking at it with a confident expression. Standing next to her is her “Executive Intern” Jessica Anderson, who is standing to the side of the view of the camera, looking at the camera also with confidence while holding a large clipboard.
Cassie Lopez: Congratulations, ARIA! Couldn't have happened to a better person. Last week, you showed the whole world that you are the face of Fusion and had everybody talking about it…I mean after your face virtually “kissed” the underside of my size 9's before being laid out! You’re welcome!
You see, what I did was no mistake. Not even a lapse in judgment on my part. Now ARIA, you might be a little slow to understand what I’m going to say next but I’m always up for a challenge. So allow me to explain it so even YOU can understand. In the world I’m in, if you want to make the big move, you have to make a statement to the one who holds all the cards. And you, honey, hold the biggest card of them all…the card that I DESERVE to have. This is why I came to Fusion. Just like I rule the business world, I’m determined to rule Fusion as World Heavyweight Champion. And this is not just a warning for you, ARIA, this is all inevitability because I ALWAYS get what I want.
Meanwhile, Jessica nods her head, while giving a smirk, acknowledging the comments of Cassie as she continues to look on at the camera.
Cassie Lopez: But even I’m woman enough to know that I’m not ready to seize it just yet. Take a look at this, if you will; Beauty of an exotic angel. Body of a Goddess. Strength of a Warrior. Mentality of a Queen; the complete package. And I’m the kind of woman that loves proving myself to be worthy. And you will have the distinct pleasure of being part of my journey here in Fusion, by watching me step on all of the competition Fusion sends my way and making them all “Kiss The Ring”…
On that note. Cassie raises her fist to reveal a gorgeous, sacred ring, to which the camera focuses on for a moment. Cassie then lowers her fist, taking in a little giggle while placing some hair behind her ear before continuing to speak, with Jessica continuing to look on.
Cassie Lopez: Ayu Megumi. I guess this is the part where I get to go “Superbitch” on you right? Go on this tangent about you being beneath me and would flourish better if you were associated with me; carrying my bags, running my errands, holding doors for me etc. Or even say something degrading like you’re not even worthy to kiss the footprints that I leave on the dirt, which is 100% true. But no, Ayu, that is not going to be the case here or with you. You have earned some respect in this business so far; and have been working your darndest trying to break out of the shadows cast by your older sisters; and there is much respect for that. But the reality is sweetie that who you will be facing tonight is more than just a woman making her singles debut in Fusion. And when it comes to all of Zion, I’m far more than being some run-in-the-mill spring chicken. This woman…A strong woman, a defiant woman…. a privileged woman.
To drive that point across, Cassie points to herself, letting her audience know of how she is the one in control.
Cassie Lopez: I am the best at what I do, Ayu. And I assure you that you bring your best. I can stand here and praise you on the skills that you have. But when that bell rings, sweetie, it doesn’t matter to me what you’re capable of. You just make sure that it’s enough to keep up, and possibly, overcome me to get that treasured victory you dream about…and that’s just before reality crashes in….in the form of my Amazonian build dropping you where you stand.
To drive Cassie’s point across, Jessica points her finger down and whispers the word “down” while Cassie continues to speak,
Cassie Lopez: And it will be then, my dear, that you are going to find out first-hand what happens when a “subordinate”, who wants to leave her tracks in Fusion, decides to step in the way of an "Alpha Female" enroute to rule over Fusion; "El Jefe"!
Think about that when you’re about to step into my ring, Ayu. Because your REAL test of survival will begin tonight…a survival you will definitely be denied of and your place in the NEW Fusion will FINALLY be revealed….BENEATH ME! Now wouldn’t THAT be “Amazing!”?
Cassie takes a pause to allow the camera to capture her and Jessica’s expression of conviction before they leave its view, allowing the camera to catch a glimpse of the dressing room before fading to black.
The camera shifts elsewhere in the arena where, backstage, Melina Rodrigo stands with ZION Television Champion, Mai Blackman. Mai’s in her ring gear with her title over her shoulder. Her usual, perpetual scowl on her face. Is this woman ever in a good mood before a match?
Melina Rodrigo: “Good evening ladies and gentlemen! I’m standing here with the reigning, defending Zion TV champion, Mai Blackman. Mai, it’s been some time since we’ve seen you here on Friday nights. How’s it feel to be back?”
Mai Blackman: “It’s been some time, she says. Melina, it ain’t been that long. A few months, maybe. That ain’t long. Time flies when you’re kicking ass in the ring, but you wouldn’t know anything about that, would you?”
Mai looks directly at Melina, awaiting an answer but as soon as Melina, taken aback by the off the wall response, starts to answer, Mai cuts her off.
Mai Blackman: “‘Course not! So save the bullshit chit chat questions and ask me what you really wanna ask me. Go on.”
Hesitantly, Melina brings the microphone back to herself as Mai looms over her.
Melina Rodrigo: “Ok. Uhh…your first match back on Fusion. You’re defending your TV championship against ZION homestay Serena Riot. This might be the toughest match in your career, yet.”
Mai Blackman: “Toughest match of my career? That so? Melina, you know what? I fu–”
Mai stops herself and rubs her mouth with her hand, finally smirking with a little chuckle and nods.
Mai Blackman: “Nah, you know something? You may be right. I can’t take anything away from Serena Riot. She’s proven to be one of the baddest bitches of Zion Wrestling. Maybe I’ll get a respectable fight outta her, unlike my recent string of opponents. Don’t get me started on the salty bitch I took this from.”
Mai slaps the center plate on her title.
Mai Blackman: “Said you were gonna make me tap. How’d that work out for you? Oh wait.”
Mai looks at her title again with a smug chuckle.
Mai Blackman: “So then…Serena Riot. It’s on you now. Phoenix is already hot as shit. You wanna burn this motherfucker down?”
She steps forward and beckons at the camera with two fingers.
Mai Blackman: “Come show me that fire, sweetheart. I’ll show you how quick I can snuff that shit out.”
She turns her attention to Melina then, looks her over and just shakes her head, dismissively and excuses herself from the set. Melina Rodrigo is left flabbergasted as she watches the champion disappear down the hallway.
MATCH #4: ALEXIS LEMON VS NAO SAEGUSA
INTERNET CHAMPIONSHIP OPEN CHALLENGELemon and Saegusa shuffle around the ring together, before going for a lock up! Saegusa gets the upper hand at the start of this, showing off her prowess as a grappler! But Lemon quickly picks things back up, cutting off a Waistlock with an Elbow to the side of the head! Lemon hits the ropes in hopes of following up, only to be met with an Arm Drag by Saegusa! Lemon scrambles to her feet, getting hit with a follow-up Dropkick from Saegusa! She falls back into the ropes, seemingly about to fall through! But Lemon holds on, bouncing back into the ring and nailing Saegusa with a Scorpion Kick! Saegusa stumbles a bit off of this, seemingly about to fall to the mat! But she rebounds, drilling Lemon with a Discus Clothesline that sends her to the mat! Pin by Saegusa, only getting a two count!
Saegusa pulls Lemon to her feet, unloading with a European Uppercut that sends Lemon back into the corner! She looks to follow up with a Splash, but Lemon rolls out of the way! She quickly gets on the offensive against Saegusa, hitting her with a set of Kicks to the thigh against the ropes before charging in and sending her over with a Clothesline! Lemon looks to follow up, hitting the ropes and looking for a Suicide Dive! But Saegusa catches her, jumping to the apron and nailing Lemon with a Knee Strike as she peaks her head through the ropes! This sends Lemon kneeling in the ring, with Saegusa taking advantage as she launches from the top rope with the Spacium Cut (Top Rope Leg Drop)! Pin by Saegusa, with Lemon kicking out right before three!
Saegusa goes for the top rope, looking for the Justice Crash! But before she can take off, Lemon boosts herself back up to her feet, tripping Saegusa and racking her on the top turnbuckle! She sees her opportunity, getting Saegusa in position before sending her to the mat with a Top Rope Lemondrop! Lemon goes for the pin, getting the three count to secure the victory!
Alex Lawson: The winner of this match…and STILL the Zion Wrestling INTERNET! CHAMPION!...ALEXIS! LEMON!
Eddie Red Apples: A very impressive showing by Nao Saegusa! But in the end, Alexis Lemon turns away yet another challenger!
Amber Westgate: Alexis Lemon has been making up for lost time after regaining the Internet Championship! I can’t wait to see who she faces next!
Lemon celebrates with her title was we fade!
WINNER: ALEXIS LEMON (#ANDSTILL)
RESULT: PINFALL (TOP ROPE LEMONDROP)
Ringside at the Footprint Center. Melissa's music hits and she goes to the ring, waving to the fans. Melissa grabs a mic.
Melissa Tasman: I'm the new girl here. But some of you know me already because I had been in the indy scene in the southern area like here. For everybody else's benefit I'm Melissa Tasman. I'm here to do my best.
I didn't fit in with the girly girls in my school because I liked to get physical. I liked to be rough and play full contact where I could. It hurts a lot sometimes. But it made me tougher. So you know when I tell you I'm here to do whatever I have to do you can take that to the bank.
Because that's what it takes here I'm told. Do everything it takes no matter what. Well I will. Everything I can do I will. So take a look everyone because I'm here to make an explosion. And to all my opponents to come, good luck and nice try.
The camera cuts back to Ayu Megumi standing next to Meliana Rodrigo with her wide smile. Ayu waves to the camera with a bright smile before she turns and bows to Meliana, who Ayu had a match in. Tonight, facing The “Top Tier” Cassie Lopez, who attacked her friend ARIA after last week's match, Ayu is determined to exact revenge on her friend this week after she saw what All that Cassie Lopez did to ARIA was something that Ayu couldn't tolerate. She only knew that tonight she had to do everything to win.
Meliana Rodrigo: Hello Ayu! Nice to meet you tonight! Tonight you will face Cassie Lopez who has faced you before and Cassie has faced your sister before, do you think you can beat Cassie Lopez? And what are your thoughts on what Cassie did to ARIA last week? What are your plans for Cassie Lopez tonight?
Ayu Megumi: What Cassie did last week was disgusting and unacceptable. She wanted to challenge for the ARIA championship, but she chose to do the abomination like that. I don't think it's fair enough because there are a lot of people who work harder than Cassie. I don't know who Cassie is, but to me, Cassie is just a failure. I don't know why ARIA would care about Cassie Lopez failing Zion Gateway Champion if Cassie would say she's changed. I don't believe it 'Cause tonight I'll be the one to prove that what I think is right. What I'm thinking is that no matter what, Cassie will fail again just like her time in Mayhem. I have no plans for her tonight, but I'm very confident that tonight I will let Cassie learn something. Something will let Cassie know that she does things that are beyond her abilities. I respect Cassie for having the courage to call herself “Top Tier.” Even though she didn't do anything to make everyone here believe that she really was at that level. I don't care if Cassie lost to Nami in the past but tonight I'm going to do everything I can to beat her. Cassie probably thinks she's better than a lot of people here because she herself has challenged ARIA, but I Insisting that it's not Cassie's deserving of such disgusting acts. i will win this match I believe I can beat her.
Meliana Rodrigo: Thanks for the interview tonight, Ayu! Good luck for tonight's match against Cassie Lopez. Anything you'd like to say to the cameras or your supporters? Or have something you would like to say to anyone?
Ayu Megumi: Thank you to the fans who have supported me all the time since I stepped here, it was something I didn't expect that I would receive this much support. Thank you everyone for loving me. I know I can't repay everyone. Tonight I will do my best again. I want to see everyone proud of me. believe in me as I have always believed in myself believe today, shine tomorrow
Ayu smiled again before she shook Meliana's hand and bowed respectfully once more before Ayu walked away with a smile. Before scene fade to black.
MATCH #5: CASSIE LOPEZ VS AYU MEGUMI
Megumi and Lopez meet in the middle of the ring, with the Top Tier Empress pulling a move completely out of left field and offering her opponent a handshake! Megumi naively accepts, only to be yanked into a Kick to the midsection by Lopez! She quickly follows up, throwing Megumi into the corner and proceeding to stomp on her until the five count is laid on her! She backs off, before pulling Megumi towards the center of the ring and setting her up for a Neckbreaker! Megumi reverses however, pushing Lopez from behind and sending her into the ropes! Lopez returns, running straight into a Spinning Roundhouse Kick! She goes for the pin, only scoring a two count!
Megumi pulls Lopez to her feet, throwing her into the corner with an Exploder Suplex to before following up with a Dropkick into an upside down Lopez in the corner! She boosts herself up to the top rope, waiting for Lopez to make it to her feet before going for a Moonsault Tornado DDT! But Lopez manages to use her strength to catch Megumi, lifting her up and dropping her with a Cradle Suplex! She quickly follows up, dropping Megumi with another Suplex before floating over to make the pin for a two count!
Lopez looks to end this, hitting the ropes for the Stamp of Relevancy! But Megumi moves out of the way, pushing Lopez towards the ropes once again before catching her upon return with the Ethereal Blade (Claymore Kick)! Megumi isn’t finished, taking to the top rope and potentially looking for the Leap! But just then, Jessica Anderson climbs to the apron, distracting the referee for just enough time so that Cleopatra can intervene and push Megumi off the turnbuckles and to the mat! Lopez quickly takes advantage of this, pulling Megumi to her feet and nailing her with Down to Earth (Vertebreaker)! Pin by Lopez, scoring the three count!
Alex Lawson: The winner of this match…Cassie! Lopez!
Eddie Red Apples: A huge statement made by Cassie Lopez ahead of her just announced match at Madness against ARIA for the World Heavyweight Championship!
Amber Westgate: And you’ve gotta sense that ARIA is watching from the back in disgust at the actions of Lopez and Company!
Lopez has her hand raised by the referee. But to her, it isn’t enough. Lopez jumps onto Megumi, going in on her with strikes as the official tries to get some separation, to no avail! Eventually "DESTINY" by Saori Yoshida hits the PA, as World Heavyweight Champion, ARIA, rushes down to the ring for Megumi’s aid! Lopez, Ivy, and Anderson all flee the scene, with ARIA sneering at the three as she checks on Megumi.
WINNER: CASSIE LOPEZ
RESULT: PINFALL (DOWN TO EARTH)
We open backstage with Serena Riot standing up, and admiring the atmosphere around her. She chuckles before getting all giddy. More giddy than a kid opening a present on Christmas.
“I’m back. Man does it feel good to say that. And I’m back for a lot of different reasons. 2022 was a hard year for my career. And Hell, I’m lady enough to admit that. That’s fine. My 2021 was the best year. And 2022 was the worst. It sucked, being on the bottom. And what’s more, it sucked ending it the way it did. I had a hard, hard time looking at myself in the mirror and being…Happy. Truth be told, I thought I was going to be happy coming back to ZION. And I wasn’t. Instead, what did I feel? I felt…Let down. I felt sad. And there wasn’t anything I could do about it. It flat out sucks when you see your friends and even your wife kicking so much ass. And you’re just kinda…Taking a back seat.”
“At War Games, Psychosis 4 All was supposed to win against some lame ass, trash talking bimbos. That didn’t happen. What did happen was Jordan came in. And she did what she could. But in the end…We all came up short.I left 2022 just as confused as what I am now. So after War Games, what did I do? I stayed at home. But I wasn’t there for long. Your girl moved to Chi-Town. Jack freaking loves that town, man. And so do I! Moving was…Well, not exactly graceful, but me and him did it. And what did I do after that? Well I healed up. Nagging injuries are a bitch. But, they’re not enough for This Bitch. But the worst part? Sitting at home. And seeing what I couldn’t believe. Mayhem doing awesome stuff. Same with Fusion. I’m seeing…I’m seeing craziness all around me. And it made me realize something.”
“Why take that back seat? Why be stuck? I have a whole world filled with more than just opportunities in front of me. Hell, I’m looking for a reboot. A fresh start. And it all starts tonight against Mai Blackman.”
Serena gets a warm, yet alarming smile on her face.
“And I’m not here to sugar coat Mai and what she’s done. She’s the BRKTHRU Television Champion for a reason. I watched her decimate Jennie Fenix until she couldn’t even move. I’ve been in the ring with Mai before myself. Ain’t no cakewalk. But Mai…I want you to understand something. Chica, this is going to have that big fight feel. I’m not Jennie. I’m not even the Serena from 2 years ago. I’m That Bitch for a reason. And the reason is this. Look me in the eyes right now, puddin.”
“Me and you may have the same exact mentality; Inflict as much pain as we possibly can. But that’s where our similarities end. I’m not afraid of you. And I damn sure ain’t gonna lay down and tap. I’m hitting Psychosis. I’m taking your BRKTHRU Television Championship. And who knows, maybe if I’m bored enough This Bitch will grab a table, and take your lifeless, soulless body to the top rope. And hit another Psychosis from up top. This is usually the part where I say it’s not personal. But, like I said. It’s a new year. And a new attitude. And when I become The BRKTHRU Television Champion, you won’t deserve a damn rematch. That strap is as good as mine. See you out there, champ…For now.”
She smiles as she flips off the camera, getting ready for her match.
MAIN EVENT: SERENA RIOT VS MAI BLACKMAN ©
BRKTHRU TELEVISION CHAMPIONSHIP MATCH
Alex Lawson: The following contest…is scheduled for one fall!
Crowd: ONE FALL!
Alex Lawson: And is for the BRKTHRU! TELEVISION! CHAMPIONSHIP!
Introducing first, the challenger…from Cleveland, Ohio…weighing in at 150 lbs…Serena! Riot!
And her opponent…from Chicago Illinois…weighing in at 135 lbs…she is the BRKTHRU! TELEVISION! CHAMPION!...MAI! BLACKMAN!
Blackman and Riot circle the ring around one another before scrambling for position! Blackman tries to go low for a Takedown, but Riot gets out of the way, landing a Boot to the side of Blackman’s midsection before going for Wicked Ways early on in the contest! Blackman gets out of the way however, getting Riot in position before attempting to launch her with a German Suplex! Riot lands on her feet off of this, hitting the ropes before going for a Penalty Kick! But Blackman ducks it, catching Riots leg as she passes and sending her face first to the mat! She rolls through, seamlessly transitioning Riot into a Single Leg Boston Crab! Riot is in trouble, with Blackman cutting off any attempt made by her to reach the bottom rope! She eventually finds another route of escape, using her free leg to trip Blackman and roll her to the mat for a pin!
ONE…!
TWO…!
Kick out by Blackman! Riot stays on top of her, cutting off an attempt to get up with a Gator Roll before transitioning into a Waistlock to pull her up with! Blackman quickly refutes this, nailing Riot with a couple of Elbow Strikes to the side of the head before going for the ropes! She returns to Riot, only to be caught off guard with a Superkick from the former World Champion! Blackman falls back into the ropes, quickly shaking off the cobwebs as she returns to Riot and rocks her with a stiff Forearm Smash! Riot is sent to the mat as Blackman goes for the pin!
ONE…!
TWO…!
Kick out by Riot! Blackman stays on her now, mounting the challenger and laying into her with Palm Strikes to the head and midsection of Riot! She continues the onslaught, rolling Riot over and unloading with a set of Knee Strikes to the side of the midsection! She pulls Riot to her feet, looking to send her into the ropes with an Irish Whip! Riot reverses, however, sending Blackman into the ropes instead! Blackman returns to a Kitchen Sink by Riot! She staggers her way back up to a vertical base, only for Riot to pull her up and drop her with a Sit-Out Powerbomb! Pin by Riot!
ONE…!
TWO…!
Kick out by Blackman! Riot rolls her up to her knees, quickly stepping back before nailing her with a Superkick! Blackman is nearly out of it now, with Riot seeing her chance as she hits the ropes and nails her with Wicked Ways! Curbstomp connects! Riot with another pin!
ONE…!
TWO…!
THREE-
Kick out by Blackman, much to the surprise of Riot! She isn’t deterred however, getting Blackman in position for Psychosis! But Blackman reverses, popping Riot on her shoulders in a Fireman's Carry position! She throws Riot up, looking for Lights Out, but Riot catches the knee on the way down as she lands on her feet, beating Blackman back with a Headbutt! Blackman falls into the ropes, bouncing back towards Riot and nailing her with the Chicago Kiss! Mai Blackman with a Headbutt of her own! Both women collapse to the mat, with Blackman taking a moment to shake off the haze and get back into the match as she crawls over to pin Riot!
ONE…!
TWO…!
THRE-
Kick out by Riot! Blackman pulls her to her feet, before unloading with a Forearm! Riot answers back with a Forearm of her own! Blackman hits another forearm, as does Riot! Forearm from Blackman, Forearm from Riot! Eventually, Riot gets another fire in her, nailing Blackman with a set of Forearms that send her to the mat! Riot takes to the top rope now, looking for the Demon Drop! She launches off for the Shooting Star Press, only to be caught by Blackman at the mat with Blackman’s Bounty! Triangle Choke is cinched in! Riot is in trouble now, not having the ropes close enough to her to escape! She eventually uses her strength, pulling Blackman up on her shoulders and looking for a Slam! But Blackman pulls her right back down, keeping the hold locked in and furthering Riot from the ropes in the process! With no other way to escape, Riot decides to fight another day, and taps out to the move!
Alex Lawson: The winner of this match, via submission…and STILL the BRKTHRU! TELEVISION! CHAMPION!...MAI! BLACKMAN!
Eddie Red Apples: 168 days ago, Mai Blackman had her final match as a member of the Fusion roster! All those days later, and she still hasn’t lost a step! What a match!
Amber Westgate: It doesn’t matter what colour the spotlight is for Mai Blackman! She’s a tough competitor through and through! No doubt about it!
Just as Blackman has her hand raised by the referee, the lights cut out! When they come back on, Morgana Summers is standing behind Blackman, her Viral Championship in hand! Knowing exactly what’s going on Blackman just smiles, eventually turning around and getting nose-to-nose with Summers. The two stare each other down, confidence in both of their faces as we fade to black!
WINNER: MAI BLACKMAN (#ANDSTILL)
RESULT: SUBMISSION (BLACKMAN’S BOUNTY)
Zion Wrestling © 2020
