Desperate Times

Singles Match
”Big Boss” Chikao Kessin vs. WEAPON

David Zinkus: The following match is set for one fall. Introducing first, from Seto, Aichi, Japan...

The Korakuen crowd erupts with heavy boos as the sound of “Secrets of Sosetsuken” herald Chikao Kessin who steps onto the stage. He ignores the boos as he moves his impressive size to the ring, stepping into the ring without a second glance at the people who dared to boo him.

David Zinkus: Representing Kingdom of Japan, “The Big Boss,” CHIKAAAAAOOOO KESSIN!

Dick Morosi: Here we have a special match, as EXODUS meets Kingdom of Japan in one on one action and first in is this man, Chikao Kessin.

Seth Ericson: If you watch Kingdom of Japan, then you know this man very well. While at one point he could’ve been called an underachiever, he’s now ditched that in favor of becoming the Big Boss of Japan by destroying...well, everyone. And he’d be happy to add his opponent’s name to that list tonight.

David Zinkus: And his opponent...

The lights in the arena begin to dim as the electronic sounds and acoustic guitar the start the intro of "Burn My Shadow" by UNKLE begin to play. Suddenly, as the lights are dark, a spotlight points to the crowd as standing in the crowd in a blue and white outfit, complete with a new mask that covers the mouth of the mysterious man but reveals his eyes, WEAPON points to Kessin to show that he has arrived! As the music begins to play, he stands there, staring down "The Big Boss."



The verse repeat while he begins to make his way down the stairs in the crowd, coming toward the ring as he remains focused. A few people look to be greeted by the mysterious man, and he slaps a few hands in kind. Coming over the rail, he flips and lands, his hand touching the ground in his trademark pose. Glancing over as he notices someone standing up in applause, he gives a stern look at the man standing, who happens to be the legendary Kazuma Fujita! Trading a nod with the man, WEAPON enters the ring, not taking his eyes off his opponent.

Seth Ericson: Now that both men in the ring, the referee is giving both men a good patdown to make sure no one’s trying to bring any “extras” into this match.

Dick Morosi: Even with everything that’s been going on lately in EXODUS, we still try to have some semblance of order and fairness.

The referee finishes patting WEAPON down and starts to move away, only for Kessin to rush forward beside him, splashing the distracted WEAPON into the corner! Kessin begins to lay into the cornered WEAPON with stomps as the referee rings the bell to signal the abrupt start to the match.

Seth Ericson: Kessin taking the advantage the referee unintentionally gave him in distracting WEAPON, and is now is just trying to stomp him into mush!

Dick Morosi: And now Kessin pushing his boot into WEAPON’s throat, choking the masked man!

Seth Ericson: Referee finally getting involved, trying to make Kessin break it. He’s starting the five count...

Dick Morosi: Kessin releasing at 4, backing off so WEAPON can get back up.

WEAPON gets back to his feet, attempting to get his bearings back after that. Kessin however takes his chance now, going for another splash into the corner. But at the last moment, WEAPON ducks out of the way, leaving Kessin crashing into the corner and stunning the big man! WEAPON follows up with a stiff elbow strike to Kessin’s face, which instead of having the desired effect only seems to shake the stun off of him! Kessin responds with a hard palm strike to WEAPON’s chest, sending him stumbling into the ropes and back to Kessin, who catches him and immediately lifts him up for a suplex.

Seth Ericson: You could hear that all the way back home in San Diego!

Dick Morosi: I don’t think our rings were made to take that kind of weight falling down on it.

Seth Ericson: And Kessin doesn’t look to be planning on stopping, as he’s dragging WEAPON up with him as he gets to his fee-hang on!

Dick Morosi: WEAPON with a jawbreaker to Kessin! The big guy’s stumbling!

Seth Ericson: WEAPON with a charge, he’s got an elbow up, he’s gonna smash it right into Kessin’s face!

Dick Morosi: But, no! Kessin manages to catch him!

Seth Ericson: A spin and he’s dropped WEAPON’s back against Kessin’s knee!

Dick Morosi: Things looking pretty grim now...

Kessin begins to pull WEAPON up again, only to be surprised when WEAPON spits blue mist into his eyes, his HellMasker! From there he begins throwing stiff kicks to Kessin’s right leg, battering his outer thigh and side of his knee with blow after blow. For a moment, to the cheers of the crowd, it seems like the big man is starting to buckle. However, despite being blinded, his target was still in front of him, and Kessin drops WEAPON with a hard chop to his chest.

Dick Morosi: Even with mist in his eyes he still can’t be stopped! What does it take to effect this guy?!

Seth Ericson: Kessin taking advantage of this lull to wipe the mist from his eyes.

Dick Morosi: In the long-term I think WEAPON might end up regretting that, since it seems to have only made him madder!

Seth Ericson: Kessin pulls WEAPON up and whips him into the ropes.

Dick Morosi: It might just be for the Scrap Buster!

Seth Ericson: Kessin ready to catch WEAPON but-wait! WEAPON goes low, he tackles Kessin’s leg! The Big Boss is down!

WEAPON wastes no time, getting Kessin’s right leg in his hand and quickly applying an ankle lock, wrenching the ankle from side to side as hard as he can. Unfortunately for him, Kessin is too close to the ropes and is able to, after a few moments of reaching in pain, grabs the rope forcing the referee to get him to break the hold. Kessin uses the ropes to help him up to a sitting position. WEAPON sees the opportunity and moves in front of Kessin and begins to throw quick, hard kicks to the big man’s face, each one eliciting a bigger and bigger reaction from the crowd.

Seth Ericson: WEAPON executing his Limit Break!

Dick Morosi: It’s doing it’s job, you can see blood streaming from Kessin’s nose now!

Seth Ericson: WEAPON pausing, steeling himself.

Dick Morosi: Gathering his power.

Seth Ericson: I can believe it, as he throws a last big kick an-

Dick Morosi: KESSIN CATCHES IT!

Seth Ericson: This is the worst moment possible to have your leg caught, when you’re facing down a very pissed off former sumo wrestler.

Kessin, blood still streaming from his nose, yanks at WEAPON’s leg, tripping him down into the ropes. This gives Kessin the time he needs to get to his feet, though with his size it still takes him long enough for WEAPON to get back to his. WEAPON goes at a run towards Kessin, only for Kessin to catch him and toss him like a ragdoll into the turnbuckle! WEAPON staggers out, only to be met with a backfist to his neck from Kessin!

Seth Ericson: Oh this is bad, that was the Back Blow, it’s used to set up for Kessin’s fearsome Sekai Ichi no Backdrop, the World’s Strongest Backdrop!

Dick Morosi: Kessin’s behind WEAPON, grabbing him for the backdrop, this is it!

But, due to a combination of the kicks to the leg and the ankle lock, plus having dropped WEAPON’s weight on his knee, leads to Kessin finding his leg giving out, with him dropping to one knee.

Seth Ericson: WEAPON’s earlier work was for a reason, Kessin wasn’t able to get him up for the Sekai Ichi no Backdrop!

Dick Morosi: WEAPON’s quick, he’s dropped behind Kessin while he’s still down and he’s gotten the big man rolled up!

ONE...

TWO...

THREE!

Seth Ericson: He did it!

Dick Morosi: By the very tip of his nose, WEAPON has managed to get a victory over the downright scary Big Boss of Kingdom of Japan, Chikao Kessin!

Seth Ericson: A tough, tough fight, but our enigmatic masked man managed it, and from the sound this crowd is making, earned their respect at the same time.

David Zinkus: Here is your winner....WEAPON!

"Burn My Shadow" plays once more, WEAPON raising his hand in victory as he tries to catch his breath while an angry "Big Boss" looks on at him. The two men stare down one another once more, all as we move backstage!

WINNER: WEAPON

The camera takes us backstage, right to the entrance to the arena where we see Sylar Drake arriving. The young Brit is wearing jeans and a shirt, all white, and carries a black sport bag. Sylar gives the camera his best smile before uttering few words he has on his mind.

Sylar Drake: Tonight, here in Tokyo, it all begins. The downfall and slow, painful demise of LEGION... and of all evil there is in EXODUS Pro. You might not know me very well... you may not know a lot about The Turks... but believe me, we along with the EXODUS Seikigun bring something you all needed. And that's hope. I will bring home the San Diego Bay title, Fiona will retain her championship and bring Jon Collins back... and all will be well.

Sylar winks at the camera and leaves towards his locker room. Elsewhere, Heather Halliwell is doing some warm up stretching to get loose before her big title defense tonight. The Exodus Pro International belt is propped up against the wall behind her, for anyone who passes through to see. She slides down to the floor in a split and stretchesnout her torso, closing her eyes and focusing on her breathing. She can hear when someone approaches her, but she doesn't look up right away to greet them.

Darrin Stearns: You don't call, you don't write...I'm starting to think I offended you with bad breath at our last meeting.

He laughs as he comes over to sit with her, smiling the whole time. At this point, Darrin looks a little worn out, his shirt open, no tie as he glances her way. Heather grins at the sound of his voice and looks up. She recognizes the look of wear and tear, having felt it herself recently.

Heather Halliwell: Sorry about that... My older sister died in late April and it's been.... taxing.

Darrin Stearns: I know how losing someone can be, Heather. I know you were kind of vague in the message you sent, but I wanted to respect your privacy.

Darrin comes a little closer, smiling as he places a hand on her shoulder.

Darrin Stearns: So I think it's time you and I catch up. How about some ice cream after this show?

The invitation for ice cream makes her laugh out loud. She swings her legs back around straight and leans forward to throw her arms around Stearns.

Heather Halliwell: Ice cream sounds fantastic.

Darrin seems taken aback by the embrace, but returns it, smiling a little as he sighs in a confused manner.

Darrin Stearns: You know...I don't think Dom would be a fan of your arms around a guy who hasn't exactly denied interest in you.

He laughs a little, trying to do little more than what he's already done. Heather pulls away, studying Darrin's face, nibbling her lower lip as she ponders this.

Heather Halliwell: Dom knows he can trust me to do right by him...

As she says this, her eyes darken as recent events in PDW come to mind. She sighs and waves a hand.

Darrin Stearns: ...I'm not gonna tell you one way or another...but you deserve better than a guy who lies, cheats, and still seems a little too close to someone else for what's right.

Her breath catches sharply at the last words of this sentence. Darrin had just hit the nail right on the head. She gets up slowly, reaching for the International Title.

Heather Halliwell: Do you mind if we don't talk about that? Please?

Darrin Stearns: We could talk about whatever you want.

Darrin reaches his hand to tilt her chin up so she could look at him.

Darrin Stearns: I just...no, it's nothing.

Darrin sighs, not realizing that showing underneath his dress shirt is a familiar blue piece of wrestling gear....the chest piece of the mysterious WEAPON. Heather allows the subject to drop, not wanting to complicate things further. This man had been nothing but kind... Not to mention admiring of her. As she struggles for a new topic, her eyes fall upon the chest piece. She looks up at him, her eyes widening.

Heather Halliwell: Have you been holding out on me, Darrin?

She reaches out a hand and moves his shirt over a little more, running a finger over the chest piece.

Darrin Stearns: Heather, it's just...some things people don't really want the answers to.

Heather tips her head and nods. She straightens his shirt out and buttons it up enough to hide the incriminating chest piece.

Heather Halliwell: Be that as it may... You might want to cover your ass a little better.

She looks up at him and gives him a little grin.

Darrin Stearns: Besides...for all you know, I'm a decoy.

Darrin grins, looking at her hands for a moment before he leaned his head down and kissed her lips softly. Heather freezes for a moment in shock before pulling away. Her eyes are wide and her face is bright red. She shifts from foot to foot trying to collect her thoughts.

Heather Haliwell: Tell me how you really feel?

Darrin Stearns: Heather, I'm....oh god, I'm so sorry. I just...we should talk about this tonight during ice cream.

Heather Halliwell: I don't know if that's a good idea... I'll think about it. I um...

Heather throws the belt over her shoulder and takes a few steps back.

Darrin Stearns: Heather! Please...

Heather Halliwell: I gotta go defend this thing now.

Darrin sighs, rubbing his face in frustration.

Darrin Stearns: You sure you don't wanna talk about this?

Heather Halliwell: Not at this moment... I need to... Focus... Even though that's kind of shot now.

Heather walks back over to Darrin and puts a hand on his face.

Heather Halliwell: We will talk about this. I promise.

Darrin Stearns: Good luck, okay? I need to maintain objectivity, but...I'm pulling for you.

Heather smiles gently and backs away again.

Heather Halliwell: I'll see what I can do then.

Darrin Stearns: Good...and Heather?

Darrin smiles, coming over and tapping her title.

Darrin Stearns: All will be well.

Heather smiles and nods.

Heather Halliwell: All will be well.

Darrin smiles as she walks off, giving her a nod as he shakes his own head in frustration at himself.

We come back to the ring after the last segment with Daisuke and Ichi as "Move Away" by The Killers already playing. In the ring is Commissioner Darrin Stearns, Rufus Frost, and Kingdom of Japan President Shigesato Ishiyama. Darrin Stearns has the mic as he bows out of respect to both men.

Darrin Stearns: First off, thank you to all of you who are here in Korakuen Hall for our Japan debut, along with a sincere thank you to Ishiyama-san for his hospitality for all of our athletes and staff of EXODUS Pro! We would be honored if you'd grace our presence for EXODUS Kingdom 2 in San Diego anytime you guys are ready!

The crowd politely applauds as Ishiyama comes to shake the hands of both Stearns and Frost, all the men once more exchanging bows.

Darrin Stearns: I'd secondly like to thank the crowd across the world who happen to be watching us on iPay Per View as we speak! We promised an announcement that would shake the foundation of EXODUS Pro, and here it is!

Darrin is all smiles as he looks at Rufus, who gives him the nod and permission to continue with the announcement.

Darrin Stearns: Mark this date on your calendars...August 11th! Starting on August 11th, you'll be able to tune in and watch EXODUS Pro on its new station...FX! The process of rebranding the company continues, when on that night, we will be giving you a brand new show with a brand new stage! Thank you everyone for your support, now let's continue on with great EXODUS Pro action!

The camera cuts back to Dick and Seth, who look elated.

Dick Morosi: You heard it here first! EXODUS Pro on FX starting August 11th!

Seth Ericson: ARCHER! SONS OF ANARCHY! LOUIE! SETH ERICSON! We're all going to be on FX! Holy crap!

Dick Ericson: Make sure you mark your calendars as we prepare this brand new era in EXODUS Pro history, but let's go to the ring for non-title action! Three of the top tag teams in EXODUS meet when The Short Change Heroes meet The Turks and newcomers Kingham Come!


Tag Title Shot On The Line Triple Threat Tag Team Match
Short Change Heroes (Abby Park & Johnny Cannon, EXODUS Pro Tag Team Champions) vs. The Turks vs. Kingham Come

David Zinkus: The following contest is set for one fall, and will be a triple threat tag team match! Introducing first...

The beginning of Megadeth's Public Enemy No. 1 hit the speakers. As the guitars start to pick up, Kyle walks out onto the stage with Kendall bounding out behind him soon after. He stops and chooses to simply shrug his shoulders at the vitriolic reaction he receives. Once he starts his walk down the ramp he makes his way straight to the ring, looking directly ahead. His pace is a leisurely one. Meanwhile, Kendall is zipping around full of energy, winding the fans up. He hops up on the apron in one smooth motion and purposefully enters the ring. Kyle heads to the center of the ring, yelling out something that can't be picked up, then heads to his corner. Eventually Kendall gets refocused and after knocking a drink out of some unfortunate fan's hands, she heads to the steps and runs up them. After wiping her feet on the apron, she steps between the ropes and takes the center of the ring. Holding her arms aloft to signal her arrival, she soaks in the crowd's reaction before heading to her corner.

David Zinkus: From Manhattan, New York and weighing in this evening at a combined weight of 436lbs, Kendall K. Kingham, Kyle Kingham, KINGHAAAAAAM COOOOOOME!

Dick Morosi: A debut tonight, actually, for the tandem of Kingham Come, and what a way to debut!

Seth Ericson: Big opportunity, big pressure, we’ll see if they can live up.

David Zinkus: And their opponents...

As their music hits, the EXODUS Pro Tag Team Champions step onto the stage to a roar of applause and cheers. Park sticking her fist into the air as Cannon adjusts his title belt. They move to the ring, Park slapping hands along the way until they enter the ring, entering a staredown with Kingham Come.

David Zinkus: Weighing in tonight at a combined 358lbs, they are the EXODUS PRO TAG TEAM CHAMPIONS! Abby Park! Johnny Cannon! THE SHORT! CHANGE! HEROOOOEEEESSSS!

Dick Morosi: No introduction needed for these two, they’ve been an amazing team since they won the tag belts.

Seth Ericson: ‘Cept for the losses.

Dick Morosi: You going to do this tonight?

Seth Ericson: It’s fun.

David Zinkus: And their opponents...

“Conquistador” by 30 Seconds to Mars hits as from the crowd comes the tandem of Reno and Elena, fans moving away from these mysterious figures as they make their way down to the ring. Reno steps over the barricade as Elena clears it with a hop, and they both roll into the ring, completing the trio of teams.

David Zinkus: Weighing in, at last check, at 402lbs. They are the team of Reno and Elena. THE TUUUUURKS!

Dick Morosi: And while an introduction isn’t needed, we wouldn’t be able to write one if we wanted, as we still know less than nothing about them.

Seth Ericson: Besides their obsession with a certain overrated game...

Dick Morosi: I think Reno is glaring at you.

Seth Ericson: Oh wow, look at how comfy it is under this table...

The three teams stand across from each other, sizing the others up.

Dick Morosi: For those not aware, this match will work with one from two of the teams in the ring, and anyone can tag into the match.

Seth Ericson: So who’ll be the first ones in?

Dick Morosi: Good question...

Reno steps forward, looking from opponent to opponent, before gesturing towards the Kinghams, pointing at the mat to indicate he wants one of them. He looks back at the tag champs, who share a shrug and head to their corner, content to watch their opponents go at it. A quick game of rock paper scissors later, and Kyle is going to their corner with Kendall in the ring across from Reno.

Dick Morosi: Alright, seems we’ll be starting off with Reno of the Turks and Kendall of Kingham Come.

Seth Ericson: Something about this seems unfair, but I can’t put my finger on it...

Dick Morosi: They lock up, but Reno quickly knocks her leg from out of under her and they fall together! Squishing her under him!

Seth Ericson: I remember now.

Dick Morosi: She’s not gotten her bearings yet, and Reno isn’t giving her a chance to do so, twisting her into an armbar.

Seth Ericson: Wrenching it like hell, but she’s too close to the ropes for him to be able to hold it long.

Dick Morosi: And she’s gotten to the ropes, you’re right.

The referee has them both stand up, and Kendall quickly tries to tackle Reno’s legs out, only for Reno to have seemingly guessed it in advance, as he catches her as she’s coming down at him, and quickly lifting her up and equally quick in powerbombing her down to the mat. From there he begins stomping on her leg, seeming to get a bit too into it as Kyle begins to fidget in his corner, getting close to a breaking point at what’s happening to his sister. Finally, Reno kicks her over to her corner, gesturing Kyle to take her place.

Dick Morosi: Kyle accepting Reno’s invitation, tagging himself in.

Seth Ericson: And like a damned bull charging at him!

Dick Morosi: But he’s caught with a European Uppercut from Reno!

Seth Ericson: ...I don’t think it worked.

Dick Morosi: Oh. Wow. Yes, Kyle Kingham is just glaring at Reno after that one. I don’t think he particularly felt that.

Seth Ericson: And Kyle with an elbow smash to Reno’s face! He’s going down!

Dick Morosi: And Kyle following him down, mounting him.

Seth Ericson: Punches! Just laying into him with punch after punch!

Dick Morosi: Reno’s face taking a pummeling from Kyle’s relentless assault.

Seth Ericson: But he keeps kind of twitching.

Dick Morosi: I think that’s Reno trying to find an opening, and there we go! He’s managed to flip them both over, Reno’s on top now!

Seth Ericson: And giving Kyle the same treatment he took himself, trying to crack his skull like a watermelon at a comedy show!

Dick Morosi: Referee finally stepping in and breaking them up. This is a wrestling match, not an MMA fight.

Seth Ericson: It was exciting though...

Dick Morosi: I won’t argue. And Reno is looking at Elena now, whose extending her hand out.

Seth Ericson: And he’s tagged her in.

Dick Morosi: This is our first time seeing Elena in action, this’ll be interesting not just to the people in this match, but if LEGION is watching backstage...

Elena acts as if she’s going to lock up with Kyle, only to swiftly twist behind him and beginning to throw kicks to the back of Kyle’s leg, working it over standing up. Kyle attempts to nail her with a backfist but Elena has already moved where he can’t see her and throws an elbow at his head, stumbling him, and capitalizing by hitting Kyle with a bulldog. She intends to continue her work by going for his arm, only for the arm to swing back and clock her in the side of the head, knocking her back. Kyle nails her with a kick to the gut that takes her down as he gets to his feet. Once to his feet, Kyle looks at Reno, a light of realization going off in his head.

Dick Morosi: What’s going on here? Kyle’s saying something to the referee, and pointing at Reno.

Seth Ericson: I caught a bit of it, I think he said Reno has his baton in hand.

Dick Morosi: Does he? I can’t see from here.

Seth Ericson: I don’t THINK so...

Dick Morosi: Referee is checking Reno to make sure he doesn’t and it doesn’t seem he do-oh damn it all!

Seth Ericson: Elena was on her feet, but Kendall jammed her fingers into Elena’s eyes!

Dick Morosi: She’s blinded and stumbling and SPEAR FROM KYLE!

Seth Ericson: And a pin!

ONE....

TWO....

KICK OUT!

Obviously annoyed at that not having taken care of her, Kyle tags in his sister. She gets into the ring and smacks Elena’s head and shouts something not so nice at her. She slaps her again and this seems to switch something in Elena on as she takes off to try and reach Reno only to, barely, be caught by a dropkick from Kendall. Not giving her a chance to get back to her feet, Kendall drops her weight on her and puts her in a chinlock facing Reno, sticking her tongue out at the masked redhead. Even with the mask one can see Reno’s face twist in anger and he begins to enter the ring, causing the referee to work to push him back out.

As this is happening Kyle enters the ring. Kendall switches from a chinlock to a camel clutch as Kyle hits the ropes, booting Elena in the skull. The referee turns back at that sound, only to see Kyle back behind the ropes where he should be, a moment too late in looking. Kendall, seeing it as the time to end it goes to lock in her version of the Fujiawara Armbar called, aptly, “The One Where I Dislocate Your Shoulder.” Reno, still angry, this time has a plan. He has his baton in hand and crouches, sliding it into the ring, where it slides under Elena and Kendall. The referee sees this and immediately moves to break them apart so he can remove the weapon from the ring. It’s easy to see Reno having a smirk as Kendall yells at the referee for this.

It was not, however, the best time to do this, as it gives Elena the time she needs to recover, as she grabs Kendall’s arm and spins her around, smashing her elbow into her face again and again, sending the other woman stumbling back trying to avoid it, blood starting to run from her nose due to the stiff elbows. She moves forward to continue it, but Kendall grabs her arm and tries to whip her into a corner. Elena however, twists and Kendall ends up being whipped into the corner - the corner the Short Change Heroes stand waiting at.

Dick Morosi: I don’t know if it was on purpose or not by Elena, but Johnny Cannon has just tagged himself in from Kendall Kingham, and the Short Change Heroes are finally in this!

Seth Ericson: A clothesline each take Kendall and Elena to the mat, and now they’re heading for the other teams’ corners!

Dick Morosi: Kyle was starting to get into the ring already so he’s unfortunately taken a knee to the head from Abby Park, while Reno’s eaten a kick to the jaw from Johnny Cannon!

Seth Ericson: Elena starting to get to her feet, and the tag champs already getting into position.

Dick Morosi: A superkick from Abby Park sends Elena into Cannon’s arms, who gives her a German Suplex!

Seth Ericson: Kendall getting up now, and Cannon’s hitting the ropes.

Dick Morosi: Oh wow! A big boot from Cannon at the same time as an elbow smash to the back of the head from Park! I don’t think Kendall will be going to any beauty pageants anytime soon after that...

Seth Ericson: There’s always my personal ones.

Dick Morosi: No. And now Kyle Kingham is trying to get back into the ring, he’s angry at that knee from earlier I think!

Seth Ericson: He ain’t the legal man and the referee knows it, pushing him back out, the tag champs watching to make sure he ain’t trying to pull anything.

Dick Morosi: That might not have been the best idea as they’re too busy paying attention to the bull to realize Elena’s back on her feet and at her corner, Reno is tagged in!

Reno charges into the ring, crashing all of his weight against Park, sending her tumbling over the ropes and facing Cannon down. The MMA stylist and the masked man immediately begin to trade hard shots to the other’s face, Reno being pushed by his anger that’s been building since the match started finally having an outlet. However, this is Cannon’s specialty and anger can only go so far, Reno finally starting to show signs of being affected by Cannon’s blows than Cannon is by his. Cannon, seeing his chance, goes for his roundhouse kick finisher! But as he’s starting the rotation, Reno unexpectedly strikes out with his leg, kicking at Cannon’s leg, wrecking his balance and sending the tag champ to the mat!

Dick Morosi: Cannon’s on his stomach, this is bad for him!

Seth Ericson: I think Abby realizes that.

Dick Morosi: Indeed, Park sliding into the ring and making for her partner but-oh come on!

Seth Ericson: Park knocked to the side by the charging Kinghams!

Dick Morosi: Now is not the time to go for the glory yourselves!

Seth Ericson: And wait, it’s Elena!

Dick Morosi: Elena with a low tackle to Kingham Come’s legs, they’re all in a tangle on the mat, away from the two legal men!

Seth Ericson: And Reno’s taking advantage! He’s getting...oh no.

Dick Morosi: Reno has gotten Cannon into the Crisis Core Crossface! This is the submission that ENDED the career of Lexie Bonds in no time! And there’s no one capable of getting to Cannon in time!

Seth Ericson: And he realizes he can’t get out, Johnny Cannon is tapping out! The Turks have done it!

Dick Morosi: My God, what a match. Kingham Come tried their hardest, and cheated their hardest, but in the end a member of the Turks has tapped one of the reigning tag champs out to get a tag title shot.

Seth Ericson: That’s going to get into their heads, I bet.

Dick Morosi: We’ll see. For now, the Turks are victorious in what they set out to do, and in doing so they’ve earned the chance to try and, as they say, keep the belts safe from LEGION. Time will tell if they’ll be able to strike lightning twice.

WINNERS: The Turks (Reno & Elena)

As the match ends Tom Matheny begins walking to the ring. Reno and Elena are standing in the centre as their opponents roll out and start pacing towards the back. The two Turks seem to be in quite discussion as the match ends and Tom enters the ring. Elena nods her head at the taller Reno as Tom walks over to them with a microphone in hand.

Tom Matheny: Reno... Elena... Both of you have been here quite some time, and after such a big match I’d like to ask--

Reno snatches the mic out of Tom’s hands, turns and begins pacing around the ring, his head bowed as he strokes his long crimson mane. Elena merely stands by watching him.

Reno: The system of domination is founded on depriving nations of their true identity. It seeks to deprive nations of their culture, identity, self-confidence and in this way dominate them. This is the way of LEGION. By becoming one they have ridded themselves of individuality. They have ridded themselves of creative thought. They have ridded themselves of personality. They have ridden themselves of choice… There must always be choice.

Reno’s hand gestures are as extravagant as ever. Tom, and the crowd in general are unsure what to make of this and are listening in silence.

Reno: And so we made the choice to come here. We made the choice to don these masks in order to send a message to them. A message of vengeance, a message of fear. But in wearing these masks… We have shrouded our own identities. We have shrouded who we are; we have shrouded our true message… No more…

The crowd pops slightly to this comment. Reno stares at Elena, who meekly nods her head in his direction.

Reno: I feel when someone has been wrestling for such a long time; they create a separate identity for themselves. Do you know who you really are? LEGION has forgotten this. We haven’t. We know who we are. And I feel it is about damn time that they knew as well.

Reno rips off his dark golden yellow glove from his right hand, revealing a large tattoo that seems to resemble a metallic bird of prey on his forearm. Some of the fans in the front row that can see this gesture leap up out of their seats, recognising this marking almost immediately.

Reno: It is the strange fate of man, that even in the greatest of evils the fear of the worst continues to haunt him. As one unit, as one person LEGION has felt this fear. The fear of the unknown. The fear of what is hunting them down, systematically one by one. But what scares you more? Not knowing what is out there? Or knowing EXACTLY what is hunting you down. EXACTLY what is seeking to destroy you? Knowing EXACTLY what they can do?

Elena stops Reno as he reaches for his mask as the crowd roars in anticipation. She shakes her head, then takes the mic from him.

Elena: The fear of the unknown can be stronger than the fear of the known. This much is true. But it only stays sustained so long as the known is the weaker. When all is revealed, if the known is with fault and with weakness then remaining unknown is the better. What LEGION does not know right now is whether we, in our masks, are more dangerous to them or if revealed to the world we are going to be the ones that bring about their downfall.

Elena strokes the clasp of her own mask, then Reno's. However, she's gentle enough to leave everything all hidden.

Elena: For the weeks leading up to this point, we've been known as the Turks. We're the new and the young. We're the up-and-comers ... as far as everyone knows. What people want to know is what the Turks can do. These fans are dying to know. LEGION is dying to know. They need to know to see what the Turks can do to them. They want to know the faces underneath, sure. But, as much as that, they want to know what the people underneath can do. They want to know what sort of fight they will end up being in. Because trust me: There will be a fight.

The Turks come to face each other. Then, with the exchange of a nod ... they reach up and undo their clasps. The crowd roars, but before both masks are removed, Elena has one last thing to say ...

Elena: So, LEGION: If you want to know what fight you're in for ... You best know who you're actually going to fight.

The crowd erupt as both Reno and Elena reach for their mask ...

Dick Morosi: WHOA!

Seth Ericson: The Turks unmasked?

The crowd break into a mad frenzy upon the sight of Elena and Reno stood in the centre of the ring. Both of them hold their masks in their right hands as they grin at each other sinisterly.

Dick Morosi: Ladies and Gentlemen, I am so sorry to interject here. The crowd are going ballistic here!

Seth Ericson: And with reason! I know, and they know exactly who is stood in the ring!

Reno, his short hair covering most of his face grabs the microphone.

Reno: Ladies, Gentlemen and members of the jury... We are guilty! Guilty of being the ones who will set this straight. Guilty of being the ones who stand before LEGION... And guilty of being the ones who shall ruin this quest of theirs... To my left right here...

Is the woman that I would step into the fires of hell with... The woman that has stood by me, stood by us ALL... The woman that is more passionate about this industry and more for the fact-- for what is right... Than anyone I have ever met. This woman that stands before me... My tag team partner... The flaming right hand of The Turks... The one who tonight has physically set the world on FIRE... Is none other than... S(BLEEP)T... You know her name...

Over and over again the crowd chant out the name ‘Sally Talfourd’,

Reno: This woman right here... Is the gel that held The Turks together. This woman s the one that kept us as a unit.. She has been in this industry for nigh on ten years... And her experience, her success, her knowledge, her skills... Are vital to the end of LEGION...

Dick Morosi: Wait... What? SALLY TALFOURD? In EXODUS? You have to be kidding me!

Seth Ericson: I don’t know where you are, but if you haven't heard of this woman... You are an idiot...

Dick Morosi: Actual.

Seth Ericson: I do that once in awhile... What an acquisition for WEAPON and the Turks!

Reno brushes his hair back, putting his hand on Sally’s shoulder for a moment and nodding his head.

Reno: And I... Who am I? What am I? What have I done? What am I GOING to do? I am the star that shines brightly in the morning sky... I am the dealer that lays out your cards... I am the spirit that lies deep within your soul...

Dick Morosi: I know this man...

Reno: I... alongside Jonathan Collins...

Dick Morosi: He is the TEN time World Champion...

Seth Ericson: No...No... Not him. This was a bad idea!

Reno: Is one of the Godfather’s of Professional Wrestling...

Dick Morosi: He is one of the GoW!

Seth Ericson: This is a bad idea. What was WEAPON thinking?

Dick Morosi: What are you talking about?

Seth Ericson: You know his nickname... You know what people call him...

Reno: I said to you last week... You will know my name by the end of the night... And I was truthful... My name is Andreas Lasiewicz. And alongside Sally Talfourd... Are here to take down LEGION... THAT is our sole purpose for being here. You wronged our friend... And now we shall wrong you...

Dick Morosi: Names are names, Seth. This man, alongside Sally Talfourd has come to defend EXODUS!

Seth Ericson: B-but... They call him... ‘The Morning Star’...

Andreas Lasiewicz: And if you think that us unmasking is the silver bullet that I spoke of... You are solely mistaken-- Wait...and... see...WEAPON has yet to be unleashed...The End... Is the Beginning... Is the End...”

Andreas Lasiewicz drops the microphone as the crowd thunders on. Sally nods in approval, shaking Andreas’ hand. Tom is standing there awestruck, as the crowd scream out a ‘Turks’ chant as they exit the ring.

Eight Man Tag: EXODUS Vs. LEGION
Adrien Cochrane, Justin Brooks, Ryuji Kamigawa & Terry Marvin vs. Gryphon, Sabra & The Ninth Gate (Daisuke Iwakuma & Kameron Chase)

David Zinkus: Ladies and Gentlemen! The following match is an eight-person tag team match scheduled for one fall. Introducing first, representing the EXODUS Seikigun...

A series of beeps in morse code rings out through the arena PA system, as the lights begin to dim. Suddenly...



As "Image of the Invisible" by Thrice continues, the crowd explodes when out from the back arrive Adrien Cochrane, Justin Brooks, Ryuji Kamigawa, and Terry Marvin! The crowd goes into an even bigger cheer as they notice the quartet wearing matching navy and Carolina blue colours, complete with the Blue Lantern logo Jonathan Collins made famous as a rally symbol for EXODUS! The four walk slowly down to the ring but Adrien is lacking far behind, waving to the fans as they pass, slowly rolling into the ring as they reach it. Once there, they join hands in the center of the ring, before raising them high above their heads, to a massive roar from the crowd. They start to remove their entrance gear and talk amongst themselves as David continues. Adrien is at halfway down the ramp, being held up from entering the match.

David Zinkus: At a combined weight of 1014lbs, they are ADRIEN COCHRANE! JUSTIN BROOKS! RYUJI KAMIGAWA! And “THE REAL SHOW” TERRY MARVIN! And now, introducing their opponents...

Out of nowhere, ‘Nobody Likes Me’ by Deuce plays and Adrien looks back and sees Zero McHannon making his way down the ramp.

Dick Morosi: Is that... Zero McHannon?

Seth Ericson: Yes it is!! What a surprise appearance!

Zero comes out, bobbing his head to the music, pointing at Adrien as he slowly walked down the ramp. Adrien takes notice to Zero interfering with the entrances and turns around completely. Zero is smirking and talking to Adrien so that only they could hear. Zero is the first to strike on Adrien on the ramp and Adrien realizes that he is under attack. He returns some fists back to Zero but the last one is blocked and reversed with a European Uppercut which spins Adrien in a complete circle. Zero was waiting on him and quickly lifted him into the Zero-Tolerance. He delivered his finisher to Adrien off the ramp and onto the hard pavement outside the ramp. Adrien is holding his gut in a very painful way as Zero looked down to Adrien while standing on the ramp. He begins to laugh as the emergency team rushed to Adrien’s side. Walking back up the ramp, Zero high fives some of the LEGION members as they are getting ready to come out.

Dick Morosi: I can't believe what I've just seen! Zero McHannon, formerly of THW and now of PDW has just shown up at Desperate Times...and taken out Adrien Cochrane!

Seth Ericson: Didn't you see that video posted on the EXODUS website a few weeks ago, where McHannon basically called out Cochrane? How didn't we see this coming?!

The lights in the arena cut out, replaced with red lights around the entrance starting to flash and pulse to the sound of strings as "Worlds Collide" by Apocalyptica begins to play. The crowd stirs, boos erupting forth as they recognize the music. Audrey Lloris is the first to walk through the entranceway, heralding the arrival of LEGION. Gryphon is the first into the arena, closely followed by Daisuke Iwakuma and Kameron Chase, the Ninth Gate, flanking them as they enter the arena. All five stand in the entranceway, staring down the EXODUS members in the ring. Slowly, methodically, they all do the LEGION crucifix pose at the head of the entranceway to the jeers of the crowd.

David Zinkus: Representing LEGION! Weighing in at 836lbs... THE NINTH GATE, DAISUKE IWAKUMA and KAMERON CHASE! And “THE GREAT AMERICAN NIGHTMARE” GRYPHON!”

Bathing in the jeers the four drop their arms, and slowly, methodically walk to the ring. The EXODUS foursome step back, allowing the LEGION force into the ring, with Zinkus quickly escaping through the ropes. Audrey remains outside, and the two opposing forces stand opposite each other, staring down their opposite numbers. Daisuke and Ryuji. Kameron and Justin, and finally, Gryphon and Terry. Brian Lowery puts himself in-between the two factions, ordering the members to their corners. No one bats an eyelid or flinches. Looking back and forth, Brian shrugs, and moving himself out of the firing line he calls for the bell. No-one moves. Not even a blink as they continue to stare down their opposite numbers. Chase goes for a super kick on Marvin.

Dick Morosi: Wow, the opening move is a big one, trying to take out the leader of the opposition right away.

Seth Ericson: He’s come unstuck though, leaving himself open for that big counter attack. And here they go!

Brooks follows up the attack with a hard chop to Chase’s chest, sending him back towards the ropes. As Justin turns to better see what’s occurring, Kameron charges, going for a quick clothesline, which Justin is only just about to block, taking hold of Kameron’s arm and using his momentum against him, taking him over the top with a massive Judo Toss. At the same time, Daisuke and Ryuji lock up, engaging in a test of strength right in the middle of the ring. Even with the chaos unravelling around them, Terry and Gryphon continue to stand in the middle of the ring, staring deep into each other’s eyes. Justin is attempting to unleash body blows on the prone Kameron, who is holding his arms and legs up in a blocking stance. In the middle of the ring, the struggle of power continues, with Ryuji’s weight just allowing him to get the advantage, slowly powering the younger Japanese man back. Suddenly, Daisuke hits the mat, lifting a boot up into Ryuji’s chest, and sending him flying out between the ring ropes with a massive Monkey Toss. At the same time, Brooks drags Kameron up to his feet. Taking stock, he sees the two other LEGION members turn to face him. As they charge, he throws Kameron into Gryphon, causing him to stop, and as Daisuke reaches him he quickly drops a shoulder and sends him flying out of the ring with a Back Body Drop. Kameron has regained his senses, and charges the big man, hitting him with a rocking Clothesline, looking to send him over the ropes. As he connect, Ryuji wraps both of his arms around them, and they both go crashing out of the ring!

Dick Morosi: The ring is cleared! Only Gryphon and Terry remain, and neither of those men have moved a muscle yet!

Seth Ericson: Gryphon is exploring Terry’s mind. Exploring every possibility. Gryphon’s already won this confrontation.

Dick Morosi: He’s not Sherlock Holmes, Seth.

Seth Ericson: You’re right Dick. Sherlock could learn a thing or two.

Suddenly, both men dive forward, locking up collar and elbow in the middle of the ring. Terry immediately slips behind Gryphon, wrapping one arm around the torso and trying to get another around the neck, but Gryphon locks onto the arm around the torso, wrenching at Marvin’s elbow. Terry quickly pushes Gryphon away into the ropes to break the hold. As Terry ducks down for the Body Drop, Gryphons sees it coming and leapfrogs, rebounding off the opposite ropes and ducking Terry’s Back Elbow. He rebounds once more, and comes back charging at Terry, only to be met with a massive Spinning Wheel Kick, taking Gryphon both by surprise and clear off of his feet. Marvin quickly capitalises, locking Gryphon in a Headlock as he starts to stand and dragging him into the Exodus corner, where the Sekigun now all stand, allowing Brooks to get the blind tag into the match. Marvin ducks down as Brookes slingshots over him, grabbing onto Gryphon’s waist and going for a big Slingshot Spear, going right for a pin on the LEGION leader!


ONE...

Gryphon kicks out with minimal effort, rolling straight through and onto his feet. Justin quickly hits him with a Dropkick, sending him reeling back into the ropes. Justin follows straight up, grabbing Gryphon’s feet and lifting him up and horizontal, getting the tag out to Ryuji. Kamigawa climbs to the second turnbuckle whilst holds him struggling in place. Leaping off, Ryuji hits the suspended Gryphon with an Axe Handle right to the stomach, folding the Nightmare in half.

Seth Ericson: Come on Lowery, do your job! Gryphon is getting double teamed out there.

Dick Morosi: The Seikigun are operating in the rules, Seth. See, Justin’s leaving the ring now.

Gryphon, arms holding his abdomen, sinks to his knees, and Ryuji pounces, rolling him up.

ONE...

TW...

Gryphon gets the shoulder up!

Dick Morosi: The Seikigun doing a great job isolating the leader of the LEGION here, but not quite able to put him away.

Kamigawa smacks the mat in frustration. Demonstrating his brute strength, he hauls Gryphon up onto his feet, and whips him to the ropes. Gryphon catches him off guard, and reverses the Irish Whip, instead sending Ryuji running. The Japanese star comes back with a massive Spear, only Gryphon’s seen it coming, and turns Ryuji’s momentum against him, driving his head into the mat with a massive Implant DDT! Ryuji roars in pain, bringing his hand up to his head as Gryphon gets to his feet. Seeing Kamigawa on the mat, he lashes out with a quick boot to the back of his head, compounding the injury. Ryuji rolls, trying to avoid the onslaught to his head, but only gets a stomp to the face for his trouble. Gryphon reaches to the LEGION corner, and Daisuke tags in, coming to join Gryphon in the assault on brooks. Gryphon hits Ryuji with an Inverted Atomic Drop, and ducks his head, letting Iwakuma take him out with a massive Running Lariat!

Seth Ericson: The Perfect Evil showing why he’s been the front man for the LEGION operation for so long, almost decapitating Brooks with that one.

Kamigawa has landed by the EXODUS corner. Daisuke quickly takes a wrist, and drags the dazed Kamigawa away into the centre of the ring, discarding the fallen big man, and staring down the Sekigun forces in their corner. Daisuke stands a moment over his stricken foe, and hits the LEGION crucifix pose, taunting both Ryuji and the booing crowd. Daisuke pulls him back up to his feet, before giving a smirk to the assembled EXODUS force and taking him straight back down with a Perfect Evil!

Dick Morosi: Things aren’t looking good for Kamigawa. He may be suffering a concussion from that big DDT earlier.

Daisuke eyes up the pin, and glances to his corner, where he sees Kameron calling for the tag. Daisuke nods, and taking hold of an ankle drags Kamigawa to the LEGION corner, tagging in Chase as he arrives. Daisuke pulls Kamigawa up into a Wheelbarrow, lifting him up high as a feat of strength as Kameron springboards into a ring with a Cutter.

Seth Ericson: THE WRATH OF GODS! The Ninth Gate showing they’re truly back as a force with that massive double team move. Brooks has to be gone now.

Kameron wastes no time once in the ring, striking out with a quick book before pulling the delirious Kamigawa to his feet. Chase whips him hard into the adjacent corner, Kamigawa connecting with the turnbuckles hard, and bouncing off and stumbling back to Chase who takes him down with a Leg Lariat! He goes for the pin!

ONE...





TWO...





THR...

At the last moment Ryuji powers out, shoving Chase off of him.

Dick Morosi: Even when he’s running on auto-pilot, the big man still has amazing ring presence.

Chase is frustrated by the count, arguing with the referee. Unknown to him, Kamigawa shows brilliant ring presence to roll to his corner. Terry Marvin has the outstretched hand and rolls into the ring with a blaze of glory. One clothesline. Two clotheslines. Three clotheslines. Down. Down. Down.

Dick Morosi: Marvin is on fire right now. Look at him go!

Seth Ericson: “This isn’t fair! There must be some rule against this!”

Chase takes a vicious Side Effect. But he pops right up! Marvin follows it up with a Spinning Wheel Kick. But He pops up again! Northern Lights Suplex. And a pin!

ONE…

TWO…

THR—

Dick Morosi: So close you can taste it!

Seth Ericson: I-it tastes like a… Bacon Pit…?

Dick Morosi: I’ll hear none of that nonsense on this show!

Chase manages to kick out, but almost as soon as he does Gryphon dives in. After throwing in a few stomps to Marvin’s cranium he drags Chase to the LEGION corner, making a tag. The referee looks unimpressed, yet the crowd are vocal over it but it stands. Gryphon continues to throw boots at a defenceless Marvin as the audience lets their opinion known.

Gryphon is relentless, stomping over and over again. The crowd pour out their hatred as Gryphon rains down stomp after stomp. Marvin is rolling around everywhere trying to defend himself, but Gryphon is relentless. He rolls around trying to cover himself up and eventually grabs the ropes. Gryphon is furious.

Seth Ericson: Oh come on!

Dick Morosi: That is a legitimate break right there. He got the ropes.

Gryphon argues with the referee as Marvin groggily stands up. The Messiah Of Violence turns, guessing he is behind him and fires out rights. He throws him to the ropes and when he returns he grips him.

Seth Ericson: Here it comes!

Dick Morosi: He is setting him up. Marvin is in a world of trouble!

Gryphon has him locked for the Ultimate Sin!

Dick Morosi: Wait a minute. Look at Marvin!

Marvin is fighting for his life, kicking at every opportunity. Gryphon tries to keep hold, but is struggling. With a few sharp punches to the back, he has him.

Seth Ericson: ULTIMATE SIN!

Dick Morosi: What?!

Marvin flips out. Gryphon looks horrified.

Dick Morosi: “Spinning Sitout Double Arm DDT!!! The Whiplash!

Marvin is laid on the mat as the crowd screams. He manages to roll over with one arm.

ONE!!!

TWO!!!

THR—

IT'S OVER! Gryphon kicks out a millisecond too late and Marvin gets the win for his team! "Ladies & Gentlemen" by Saliva plays, and the crowd erupts as the three men celebrate as they start heading to the back! Both Kameron and Daisuke look unsure what to do when suddenly the lights go out! The sound of "Burn My Shadow" by UNKLE comes over the PA System one more time, and when the lights come back, both Chase and Iwakuma are down, and standing in the ring with Gryphon, who has made it to his feet...IS WEAPON! WEAPON looks different though, in a red variation of his costume as he waits for Gryphon to turn around, letting the two have a staredown! The two seem to be looking at one another deep in their eyes....AND THE BRAWL IS ON! WEAPON begins to get an advantage on the fatigued Gryphon, all before WEAPON blinds him with a black variation of his Hellmasker! The blinded Gryphon is backed into a corner as WEAPON starts to climb up to the turnbuckles with Gryphon! He grabs him by the wrist....TYPOON! That super wrist clutch Olympic Slam puts down Gryphon, but WEAPON doesn't look to be done! Leaving the ring, the masked sentinel goes to the outside, looking under the ring, and he's found what he seeks...

Dick Morosi: WEAPON with a table!

Seth Ericson: WEAPON with a weapon?

WEAPON slides the table back into the ring, setting it up as he drags Gryphon back to the corner, hoisting him back onto the turnbuckles as he climbs back up, looking to repeat the process. Hooking the wrist, he hoists him up....ANOTHER TYPOON THROUGH A TABLE! WEAPON gets up, and quickly looks down at the damage. As he surveys it, it doesn't take long for Andreas Lasiewicz and Sally Talfourd to return to the ring to pull their ally back. With a near look of disdain in his eyes, WEAPON looks at them both, nodding in resignation as he walks off with them.

Dick Morosi: I...I don't know what to say. WEAPON appeared in a whole new variation, attacking Gryphon, and...that was just hard to watch.

Seth Ericson: If that's the destructive power of WEAPON, I don't know what to say. Let's go backstage.

WINNERS: EXODUS Seikigun (Terry Marvin, Adrien Cochrane, Justin Brooks, & Ryuji Kamigawa)

Backstage, Tom Matheny is outside of Fiona Rourke's dressing room. We know this, because the sign on the door clearly reads "FIONA ROURKE." He hesitates for a moment, then begins.

Tom Matheny: Fans, I'm hoping to talk to the EXODUS Pro Champion, Fiona Rourke, in just a minute; I've been camped out here for a little while now, waiting on her to come out, to get some last minute thoughts before-

Before he can continue, the door opens, and out comes Jimmy Riley! Riley, Rourke's Marauders partner, is dressed in street clothes with a duffel bag slung over his shoulder. He glances at the camera, then at Matheny, then back at the camera, raising an eyebrow.

Jimmy Riley: Ahhh...what's up, Tom?

Tom Matheny: ...Is Fiona in there?

Riley looks Matheny up and down. After a moment, he nods.

Jimmy Riley: Yeah, she is; busy getting ready. I'm actually on my way out to our rental, gonna throw my bag in before the show's over. She'll be out eventually, I'll tell her you want an interview, alright?

Matheny nods, and Jimmy grins, heading past Tom. The two bump, and a small object falls out onto the ground between the two. Both stop suddenly, the camera panning down...

To the unmistakable blue mask of WEAPON.

Jimmy quickly reaches down, picking it back up and stuffing it into a side pocket on the bag. Matheny tries to ask a question, but Jimmy, wide-eyed, quickly strides away. The camera zooms after him as he turns the corner, leaving the scene.

Dick Morosi: Well, I just can't believe this.

Seth Ericson: What?

Dick Morosi: It apparently seems that Harakiri and Jamie Essex were delayed at the airport and will not be able to make it here tonight.

Seth Ericson: Sucks for the big guy, but he and his manager should have made better flight arrangements.

EXODUS Pro San Diego Bay Title Match
Jerry Matthews (EXODUS Pro San Diego Bay Champion, w/ Deacon Jeremiah) vs. Sylar Drake

The opening tunes of "Wild at Heart" echo throughout the arena and people are on their feet as Sylar Drake steps on the stage with his back to the ring.

David Zinkus: The following is a singles match for the San Diego Bay Championship! Introducing first, he is the challenger, from Newcastle, England, weighing in at 185 pounds, SYLAR DRAKE!

He turns around with a wild roar and runs towards the ring, high-fiving with the fans on the way. He jumps on the apron and slingshots himself into the ring, where he poses on the top turnbuckle during the chorus line. Just as he gets off the buckle, his music slowly dies out.

Dick Morosi: Well, I personally think that Sylar Drake has a very strong chance of walking out of here as the champion.

Seth Ericson: Fat chance. Matthews has got this on lock!

As Josh Turner's "Long Black Train" begins to play, "The Evangelist" Jerry Matthews strides down the aisle in a suit and tie. In his hand, he carries a Bible and begins his regular sermon as he ventures down to the ring.

David Zinkus: And his opponent, from Redemption, Alabama, weighing in at 275 pounds, he is the San Diego Bay Champion, JERRY MATTHEWS!

His spiritual liaison, Deacon Jeremiah, accompanies him to ringside with an offering plate, ready to collect money from any believers in the crowd. As he gets to the ring, he climbs through the ropes and removes his suit. He then raises his Bible in a "preachy" manner to the crowd as they boo incessantly.

Seth Ericson: Jerry Matthews is unstoppable. He could teach your ass a lesson for sure.

Dick Morosi: Do I need to bring Ryuji Kamigawa out here?

Seth Ericson: Damn you, Dick!

Drake looks at the preacher praying and shakes his head as he turns his back on Matthews and begins stretching. The Deacon tells Matthews that Drake has turned his back and Matthews is quick onto his feet, handing the Deacon the Bible. The fans begin to point as Matthews sneaks up behind Drake, who quickly notices the fans reaction and turns around, only to be met by a clothesline from the charging champion. The ref has no choice but to ring the bell so that he can start the match.

DING! DING! DING!

Dick Morosi: What a cheap shot by Jerry Matthews! Before the match even started too!

Seth Ericson: Haha! That was genius by the reverend! Drake should've never turned his back on him!

Matthews begins to stomp onto the body area of Drake's 6'0 frame, the crowd booing him as he begins to show his aggression early on. After the stomping ceases, Matthews is quick to grab the head of Drake and pick him up, only to kick him in the midsection after doing so. Matthews then proceeds with his attack and lifts up the 185 pounder out of Newcastle, then drops him back first onto the mat with a sitout powerbomb. Matthews quickly goes for the cover after hitting the powerbomb.

Dick Morosi: What a sitout powerbomb!

ONE!

TWO!

KICKOUT!

Seth Ericson: Ah, damn it.

The Southern Baptist Priest continues to go on the attack as he picks up the rookie once more. He proceeds to kick him in the midsection, this time looking to connect with a suplex. Unfortunately, Sylar Drake is fast enough to reverse it and land on his feet behind Jerry Matthews. Matthews quickly spins around, only to be met with a Pele kick to the head.

Dick Morosi: And a reversal by Sylar Drake!

Seth Ericson: Let's go, Rev!

Sylar Drake notices that he has to take advantage and he does so. He walks over to the body of Matthews and lands not one, not two, but three straight elbow drops onto the chest of Matthews before getting up on his own two feet. Sylar knows he has to be quick, so he quickly makes his way to the left side of the reverend and flips, landing right on top of the with a perfect standing moonsault. Drake follows it up with a hook of the leg for a pinfall attempt.

Dick Morosi: This could be it right here!

ONE!

TWO!

KICKOUT!

Seth Ericson: Attaboy, Rev!

Drake does not seem to be at all surprised by the kickout as he stands up and looks over at Jerry Matthews before the Deacon stands on the ropes and begins shouting "sinner" at Drake. Drake quickly hurries over to hit the Deacon, but the Deacon jumps off at the last second. Sylar then turns around and is caught around the waist by Jerry Matthews, who tosses him across the ring with a perfect belly-to-belly suplex. The crowd boos as Matthews drags Drake away from the ropes and goes for another cover.

Dick Morosi: Beautiful belly-to-belly suplex by Jerry Matthews.

ONE!

TWO!

KICKOUT!

Seth Ericson: And another kickout. Can this Drake kid stay down?

The South Baptist Priest seems to be getting a bit irritated with his opponent here tonight. He grabs the head of Drake once more and hooks it around his right arm as both men are up to their feet, before planting the young superstar onto the mat with a perfectly executed DDT. But, the reverend doesn't stop there. After the DDT, he grabs the right arm off Drake and puts it in a cross armbreaker. Drake screams out in pain as Matthews just keeps the hold on. After nearly thirty seconds in the hold, Drake seems to have gotten near enough to the ropes by somehow dragging the bigger man over. He attempts a swing at the rope with his left leg, but just nearly misses. He attempts once more and it lands right on top of the bottom rope, the ref now forced to yell at Matthews to break the count. But, Matthews keeps the lock on all the way until the ref's 4 count before releasing it.

Dick Morosi: Absolutely disgusting!

Seth Ericson: Deal with it, Dick.

Dick Morosi: If Matthews couldn't retain via disqualification, I would say disqualify the bastard!

The ref begins giving Matthews a piece of his mind as Drake helps himself up using the ropes and his good left hand. Matthews see that Drake is starting to rise and immediately goes rushing towards him. He spins Drake around and looks to swing at Drake with his right, but Drake blocks it with his left before delivering a headbutt to the rib cage of Matthews, which sends his backwards staggering. Drake quickly seizes his opportunity by running forward and connecting with an enziguiri, the sharp kick sending Matthews falling to the ground face first. Drake quickly drops to his knees and uses his one good hand to roll the bigger man over before going for the pinfall.

Seth Ericson: Took too long there!

Dick Morosi: Not his fault.

Seth Ericson: But it is his problem.

ONE!

TWO!

KICKOUT!

Seth Ericson: Told ya.

Drake quickly gets up and begins to try and pump the crowd. He walks over to the body of Matthews, raises his right boot, and drives it right onto the midsection of Matthews, causing the upper part of his body to jerk upwards. Drake quickly runs towards the ropes and comes bouncing back, where he connects with a shining wizard right onto the jaw of Matthews. The impact can be heard all over the arena as the crowd cheers when Drake goes for yet another cover.

ONE!

TWO!

KICKOUT!

Dick Morosi: Close call!

Seth Ericson: Thank God!

But, Sylar is still determined. He walks over to both of Matthews's legs and quickly grabs the right ankle, flipping Mathews around and locking in an ankle lock that has Matthews screaming in pain. Matthews just teases the crowd as he seems to be nearly a centimeter from tapping, but he doesn't. Instead, he turns his body around and uses his free foot to shove off Sylar Drake, who goes falling to the mat. Mathews and Drake are both up to their feet pretty fast, but Drake makes the first move. And it ends poorly as he ends up running into a spinebuster.

Dick Morosi: What a spinebuster!

Seth Ericson: Yeah, champ! Go show this rook why you're the champ!

As Matthews just seethes at the sight of Drake, he quickly goes on the attack, stomping any part of Drake's body before letting out a scream of anger. The Deacon begins to point to the nearby corner and Matthews grins evilly as he nods his head in agreement. He walks over to the nearby corner and slowly climbs it, Sylar Drake slowly stirring. Once he reaches the top, Drake has already gotten up to both feet and Matthews jumps, connecting with Angle's Flight, a top rope clothesline. He goes for the cover after connecting with such a move.

Dick Morosi: What a clothesline!

ONE!

TWO!

TH-KICKOUT!

Seth Ericson: Oh, come on now!

Matthews does not care anymore. He quickly goes to grab the head of Drake, only to be met by elbows to the midsection, thus releasing the hold on Drake's head. Sylar quickly springs up to his feet and goes running for the nearby ropes. He bounces off of them and looks to be perform a move on Jerry Matthews, only for Matthews to connect with a big boot to the skull. But, Jerry isn't finished. He picks up Drake from behind and locks his arms around his waist, looking for a belly to back suplex, only for Drake to drive an elbow to the side of Matthews head. Matthews is sent staggering backwards as Drake immediately turns and goes after him with right hands. Matthews keep going back more and more until he is near the corner and that's where Drake takes a step back before connecting with a dropkick that sends Matthews right into leaning against the corner for support.

Dick Morosi: Now, Drake has turned the tables!

Seth Ericson: He's still going to lose.

Drake sees the leaned up Matthews and immediately goes on the attack. He drives three straight backhanded chops to the chest of Matthews, causing it to look like a tomato. Drake then throws Matthews to the ground and slowly climbs up the top turnbuckle. The Deacon hops on the apron and looks to go after Drake again, but backs off when he sees that Drake notices him.

Dick Morosi: Looks like Drake is going for Divinity Dive here!

Seth Ericson: Come on, Matthews!

Then the unthinkable happens. Jerry Matthews, who is not down and out, is grabbing the referee's leg and begging him for something, causing the ref to turn his back on Drake and also get in his way. Drake yells at the ref to move out of the way, but the ref is too busy with Matthews. This causes Drake to hop off the apron. Before he knows it, the Deacon has hopped back on to the apron and has tapped him on the shoulder. Drake turns around and is thrown holy water right in his face, more importantly, his eyes. The Deacon hops off the apron as soon as Matthews stops distracting the ref.

Dick Morosi: Oh come on, ref!

Seth Ericson: He didn't see anything!

Drake continues to rub his eyes, trying to regain his eyesight after taking that "water" to the eyes. Unfortunately, Matthews has gotten up to both feet and is ready to strike. He delivers a kick to the midsection, then picks up the young superstar as if it looks like he's about to hit a brainbuster.[/i]

Dick Morosi: Not this way!

But, instead of a brainbuster, Jerry Matthews brings his opponent down back first with "Savior's Wrath"! The crowd boos the loudest it has all match as Matthews goes for the cover!

Seth Ericson: It's over!

ONE!

TWO!

THREE!

DING! DING! DING!

David Zinkus: Here is your winner AND STILL SAN DIEGO BAY CHAMPION, JERRY MAAAAAAAAATHEWS!

The Deacon grabs the title as the referee is raising Matthews' right arm. The Deacon slides in and hands Matthews his title before Matthews raises it up in the air in victory as the crowd jeers him. Matthews then looks down at the fallen Sylar Drake and smiles as he and the Deacon make their way out of the ring.

Dick Morosi: Absolutely disgusting!

Seth Ericson: Congratulations to Jerry Matthews, who has successfully defended his title here tonight!

Dick Morosi: But you have to think Sylar Drake will have a rematch after this. For now, let's go backstage while we wait for our main event!

We come backstage to find Tom Matheny standing by, along with the man he's managed to grab for this, Nicholas Gray. Gray gives a small wave to the camera.

Tom Matheny: Hello fans, I'm here with a man no one expected to see here tonight, my radio co-host Nicholas Gray.

Nicholas Gray: Well hi Tom, we weren't suppose to see each other until Tuesday, so this is a really nice surprise, it's great to see you.

Tom Matheny: Not as surprising as you showing up here, Nicholas.

Nicholas Gray: Surprising? Not as surprising as all the content you can get, this Tuesday at 7pm Central, 8pm Eastern, when me and my friend Tom will be presenting the EXODUS Pro Post-Show for this very....historic show.

Tom Matheny: Uhm...Nicholas?

Nicholas Gray: Yes, Tom?

Tom Matheny: What are you doing here?

Nicholas Gray: Besides plugging our award-winning radio show? Have you seen the numbers for that thing? Mind-blowing!

Tom Matheny: Yes, I agree, but...

Nicholas Gray: Look, Tom.

He places a hand on his friend's shoulder and smiles.

Nicholas Gray: I'm here because some very good friends have asked a favor of me, and I was all too happy to heed the call and help them out. It's the least I can do for them, okay?

Tom nods, and Gray gives him a pat on the back and a nod to the camera before starting to walk off.

Tom Matheny: Well, that was Nicholas Gray, and...wait, hang on...zoom in there.

The camera turns to the departing Gray and zooms in on his posterior, where from his back pocket a very familar red mask can be seen hanging partially. The camera turns back to Tom, who is looking on in shock before fading back...