EXPRO On FX #35

The June 22nd episode of EXPRO on FX returns from its commercial break. Instead of going straight to the ring, or to the commentary team of Dick Morosi and Seth Ericson, the EXO-tron takes back to two weeks ago, airing footage from The War Isn’t Over Yet.



The feed returns to a live EXPRO on FOX, and to the announce team.

Dick Morosi: That was a surreal conclusion to a fantastic night two weeks ago. After nearly seven months presumably in the grave, Christum Furor emerged from the dead at The War Isn’t Over Yet.

Seth Ericson: I’ve got goosebumps just looking at that again. It’s not every day the dead rise to walk amongst the living, Dick.

Dick Morosi: And he’s back for one reason - the EXODUS World Championship. To get it he’ll have to win the Honor Cup, which has some interesting bouts scheduled for tonight’s quarterfinals. Sally Talfourd and Savannah Taylor are the favorites going in, but it’s obviously anybody’s tournament.

Seth Ericson: Indeed it is, and I for one think -

Suddenly, the commentary team is spontaneously interrupted from their scripted spiel, as the arena lights abruptly dim. The Hard Rock Hotel and Casino hushes due to the state of confusion, meanwhile Seth begins rambling away on his headset, attempting to find out exactly what’s going on. After a brief moment of anticipation, “Albatross” by Corrosion of Conformity rumbles onto the sound system, as the fans behind the commentary table past the guardrail begin to turn their heads, standing up. A spotlight begins to shine down over the audience as a commotion starts. All the fans are now standing, backs turned, attention drawn to some other place in the building.

Dick Morosi: I’m not sure what’s going on folks, we’ve never heard that music before. It could very well be one of the competitors in the Honor Cup tonight. Possibly a James Goodwin Jr. or one of the wrestlers coming over from HELL.

Seth Ericson: I don’t think so, Dick… LOOK!

With both a vociferous cher, and a weighing jeer, Christum Furor legs his way over the guardrails right behind the announcer’s desk, Dick and Seth now standing up. The thud of headsets being nudged can be heard, as the two time World Champion plants a foot onto one of the chairs, stepping up onto the announcer’s desk for all the world to see. Furor stands atop the table, looking over the teaming masses of humanity packing the venue, even those from afar can tell it’s him from the ominous black cloud hovering over his existence. It’s unmistakable. With his hair tied in a ponytail, and donning a leather jacket with a plaid shirt tied around his waist; the eloquent madman raises and spreads his arms in his trademark crucifix pose, turning his attention and looking down to David Zinkus. He flicks his hand, gesturing for Zinkus to hand him a microphone. Stepping down from the table, the former leader of the New Age approaches the journalist and ring announcer. Christum gets nose to nose with David, his breath flicking off his as he snatches the microphone from him, before backing toward the apron and rolling into the ring. He rolls with the momentum and stands up, taking another look over the audience before “Albatross” fades out. He contemplates for a moment, before speaking.

Christum Furor: Your dead will come back; their dead bodies will come to life again. Those in the dust, awaking from their sleep, will send out a song; for your dew is a dew of light, and the earth will give birth to the shades! Isiah 26:19.

The Michigander smiles as the crowd hushes and listens intently to his sermon.

Christum Furor: So it is written, so it shall come to pass. Seven months ago, it took this entire company to bury me six feet under. Yet seven months into the future here I stand. RISEN! RESURRECTED! For there is no grave that can hold my body DOWN! But you all thought otherwise. You thought that you had seen the last of me… that you had sent me to the other side where I’d spend the rest of eternity in purgatory, allowing you to carry on with your various existences without the slightest care in the world. But you were WRONG… and I was RIGHT! Just as I’ve always been. I told you that you couldn’t kill what was already DEAD… but you tried didn’t you? You tried to preserve your primitive way of life. You tried to save the EXODUS of OLD, but look at what your efforts have rewarded you. All that hard work nullified in one night as the very demon you exorcised was reawakened by your fear and desperation.

The madman cackles as he paces around the ring.

Christum Furor: Emotions created by mass chaos, and the reality that the world you thought you built was merely an illusion. EXODUS lulled itself into a false sense of security. In my absence a fog has swept through this nation, encompassing humanity in an intricate facade, and prison that you have been unable to escape. But wasn’t this part of your plan? Isn’t this what Jonathan Collins and Andreas Lasiewicz schemed for months and months to create? Did they not outsmart Chuck Matthews and Christum Furor at the Autumn Effect 2 to create THIS reality? NO! That’s because this is all MY design, and MINE alone. Christopher Strike didn’t fall on his own accord, I pushed him off that ledge. No one is truly incorruptible. I have shown you COUNTLESS times… that a noble man only needs the right motivation to descend from his self-righteous pedestal and bring himself down to a level of self-degradation. You see a man who cannot think for himself is easily manipulated… and I have coerced The War Machine into discarding his beliefs and accepting a world where the only rule is to SURVIVE! I mean… did you honestly believe that I would gamble my own life on a whim? If you did then that just goes to show that you were never paying attention to the fine print to begin with! I knew I would die… I died because I was the last domino needed for your heroes to fall from grace!

Furor walks to the corner and turns, slumping down into it and sitting against the turnbuckle pads.

Christum Furor: And how far you’ve fallen, Nick Kramer. Your metamorphosis isn’t anything out of the ordinary, nor should it have come as a shock to anyone. This is who you were meant to be after the day you shunned me for the same people that have casted you back out into the wild like a leper. You should have chose you friends more carefully. But how could you have known… how could you have known that Jimmy Riley was an insurance policy all along because EXODUS did not trust you to get the job done. How could you have known that Jonathan Collins and Andreas Lasiewicz were the co-conspirators when they pretended to be at odds? How could you have known the very company you dedicated your life to fighting for would turn you into a monster when you fought so hard to be a righteous man? You couldn’t have… but I did. I know everything, Nick Kramer. My absolute intellect makes me omnipresent. I have eyes everywhere - in this world, and the next. And these eyes tell me that everything you do is merely a coping mechanism to deal with the emotional scars of knowing that your daughter will grow up to HATE you because she will NEVER love a MONSTER. I know your pain, Nick. I understand your affliction. And now with Andreas Lasiewicz indisposed, you have proven to me that I was right about you all along. And because of that, I will see to it that your suffering meets it’s end because a mad dog cannot be allowed to roam the streets.

Furor grabs onto the top rope, pulling himself up. He begins pacing around the squared circle.

Christum Furor: But some animals are more dangerous than others, isn’t that, Fiona? Look at you, Seraph. The heart and soul of EXODUS. So pure, so noble, and so righteous. Now that heart has been turned to stone by hatred, jealousy, and greed. Almost two years ago I gave EXODUS a glimpse into the mind of the real Fiona Collins, but now… now you’ve allowed EVERYONE to see you. You’ve removed that artful mask comprised of flesh and bones, exposing your nakedness. And you look beautiful, Fiona. You’ve been ashamed of your true self for so long, but now that you’ve come to accept these vices you have truly become perfect. When a homosapien removes the labels and shackles society has placed on him, and no longer governs himself by inherent beliefs or paints himself in an image that the world accepts… he becomes something more. The darling angel has fallen from heaven. Your white wings are now coated in black, and the ink that falls from them is used to write my manuscript - the finished manuscript of the NEW AGE.

Christum turns and looks directly into the camera, leaning over the ropes.

Christum Furor: The New Age didn’t die at The Autumn Effect 2. In fact, the only thing that was buried was the world as you knew it! And you can’t believe it… you refuse to believe it… but it’s the truth. You can’t deny it any longer. You made me out to be a liar EXODUS, but once again everything I have said has come to fruition. I predicted your heroes would falter… and they have… they’ve become THE HORSEMAN OF THE APOCALYPSE! This is what happens when you place your faith in sinners and sycophants… they betray you. And now the company that was so rich with HOPE has become DESTITUTE. And now you have no choice but to put your faith in ME… in a man you’ve HATED… a man you’ve VILIFIED… a man you’ve OSTRACIZED…a man you CELEBRATED when he was laid to rest...

Furor retreats from the ropes, backing away, his cold-blooded eyes gazing through the crowd once more before finding their way back to the camera.

Christum Furor: But now a man that has become your last chance for salvation, and I know I’m right.

The madman poses in his signature crucifix pose as “Albatross” hits the P.A. system once again before the feed cuts to commercial break.

HONOR CUP QUARTERFINAL MATCH
SALLY TALFOURD vs. JAMES GOODWIN JR.

EXPRO on FX returns from commerical break to ringside where we see David Zinkus holding a microphone.


David Zinkus: The following contest is an Honor Cup Quarterfinal Match scheduled for one fall.

The crowd starts to be genuinely surprised at the sounds of "Star of 666" by Vampires Everywhere, the crowd not knowing how to react as James Goodwin Jr. makes his way down the aisle. He doesn't slap hands or go out of his way to make friends, but it's clear that Goodwin's got more than just their reactions on his mind. He's got one thing and as he hits the ring, the crowd slowly starts to come around with a mix of cheers and boos, some hardcore fans excited to see this KJPW import.

Dick Morosi: Folks, if you haven't seen this man in action, you're in for a treat. James Goodwin Jr. is one of the top stars of Kingdom of Japan Pro Wrestling and he's one half of the dominating Double Goodwin team.

Seth Ericson: But he's still got one task ahead of him, and it's the difficult task known as The Last Magician!

A silence comes over the crowd as the lights fade down and everyone finds themselves in darkness. After a moment of nothing, there's the crackling of an old recording, and then a voice:

"Ladies and Gentlemen!"

"Your act at this time!"

The LCD screens around the stage begin to flick to life with an old reel of film showing various clips of magicians performing, shots of crowds smiling and laughing, point and wondering. All, of course, in silence.

"Sights of wonder and amazement!"

"A spectacle that will confound and amuse your mind!"

The LCD screens continue to flicker with the images of an era bygone. The final clip comes to focus on a figure standing alone on a stage, the back to the screen, obscured by the shadows.

"Ladies and Gentlemen!"

"The Last Magician!"

There's a pause, and then the beginning of ‘Troublemaker’ by Troublemaker comes across the PA, the whistling cutting through the silence. The crowd reaction is mixed, with cheers and boos coming from different parts of the arena. The screens up the stage area still show the silhouette of a lone person standing in the shadows.

Then, mirroring that shot, purple lights slowly fades in at the top of the ramp, and we find 'The Last Magician' Sally Talfourd with her back to the arena. The crowd gets louder with their reception and then, as the music kicks in Sally turns to face the crowd, her arms outstretched and her head bowed to everyone.

David Zinkus:: Ladies and gentlemen, making her way to the ring for her match, 'The Last Magician' .......... Sally Talfourd!

Sally lowers her arms, raises her head, and makes her way down the ramp. Certain sections of the crowd have continued their boos, while a number of fans have rushed to the railings to try and slap hands with Sally. She, however, makes a direct line to the ring, pulling herself up to apron, she looks around to the fans before she steps in, coming through the ropes loosening her wrists. Sally laps the ring as the arena returns to normal, then takes up position across the ring, stretching her legs on the ropes and readying herself for the ring.


The bell sounds, Goodwin moves from the center of the ring moving slowly around. Sally moves toward Goodwin moving slowly around him waiting to make her move. Goodwin runs at her, Sally ducks under Goodwin. He turns, Sally nails him with a kick to his leg, which stuns him. Sally keeps coming at him nailing him with a pair of stiff kicks to his legs. Sally jumps up nailing him with a dropkick which staggers Goodwin back against the ropes. Sally runs at Goodwin as he lays against the ropes. Sally runs at him jumping into the air, Goodwin flips her over the top rope, Sally holds on to the top rope. Goodwin turns, Sally jumps up nailing him with an enziguri on the ring apron, Goodwin stumbles around.

Dick Morosi:: Good enziguri by Talfourd. That will send your equilibrium all over the place and stun a man just enough to do some real damage.

Seth Ericson:: Let’s see if Sally can capitalize.

Sally steps back into the ring. She runs at Goodwin, he catches her up into his arms sending her around with a sidewalk slam. Goodwin rises to his feet stomping away on Sally. He rises up pulling her up to her feet. Goodwin sends Sally into the ropes. She runs off the ropes, Goodwin runs at her nailing Sally with a clothesline, which sends her up and down onto the mat. Goodwin stands over her looking out at the crowd. Goodwin pulls her up to her feet. He sends her into the corner. Goodwin runs in at her, Sally dodges out of the way.

Goodwin leans in corner stunned. Sally steps back. Goodwin moves back out of the corner. Before Goodwin turns around, Sally runs at him hitting him with a lungblower. Goodwin drops down to his knees falling face first into the ropes. Sally moves out to the corner moving up the ropes in the corner. She climbs up to the top rope. Sally leaps off for a double foot stomp onto Goodwin as he lays over the ropes, but Goodwin falls back out of the way, Sally’s legs jam into the ring apron, she falls onto the floor.

Dick Morosi:: Good thinking by the James Goodwin. Talfourd is looking hurt. No one has ever credited James Goodwin Jr. with an abundance of brains, but ring smarts is a lot different than intelligence, and he has those in spades.

Seth Ericson:: Intelligence?

Dick Morosi:: Seth…

Goodwin rolls under the bottom rope out to the floor. He pulls Sally up off the floor. Goodwin sends her hard into the guardrail. Sally’s back slams off the guardrail sending her slamming onto the floor. Goodwin pulls Sally up off the floor. He leans her over lifting Sally up throwing her off the ring apron with a powerbomb. Sally falls to the floor grimacing in pain. Goodwin slides back into the ring with Sally laying on the floor.

Dick Morosi:: Talfourd has to be hurt! Goodwin completely drilled her into the ring itself!

Dick Morosi:: Her arms and legs are twitching right now! The ref may have to consider stopping this match. She looks hurt bad!

Goodwin stands in the ring, Sally lays on the floor. Goodwin moves back away from the referee. The referee looks over the top rope at Sally laying on the floor. The referee starts his count.

ONE.

TWO..

THREE...

FOUR….

FIVE…..

Sally rolls over on the floor looking up, still grimacing in pain. The referee continues his count.

SIX…...

SEVEN…….

EIGHT……..

NINE……...

TEN……….

EVELEN……...

Sally pulls on the ring apron. She pulls the ring apron trying to pull herself up. Sally is pulling trying to get back to her feet. The referee continues his count.

TWELVE………...

THIRTEEN……….

FOURTEEN…….

FIF….C-C-C-C-COMBOBREAKER!

Sally pulls herself up, she leans over against the ring apron. The referee goes to count, Sally slides back into the ring.

Dick Morosi:: She made it! Somehow, against all odds, Sally Talfourd made it into the ring!

Seth Ericson:: And at this point in time, that may have been the worst thing she could do.

Goodwin runs at Sally hitting her across her back with a stiff clubbing shot. He lifts her up throwing her with a T-bone suplex. Sally rolls across the ring grimacing in pain. Sally rises up slowly to her feet. She looks across the ring at Goodwin telling him to “bring it on” Goodwin runs at Sally throwing her with a judo hip toss. Sally pulls the ropes pulling herself back up. She looks at Goodwin again screaming “Is that all you got!!!”

Dick Morosi:: She is begging Goodwin to bring her more! She is feeding off of the pain and this crowd is going bananas for it! Come on Sally!

Goodwin runs at Sally kneeing her in the stomach. He lifts her up, Sally floats around behind Goodwin hitting him with a chop block, Goodwin stumbles. Sally gathers herself. She runs off the ropes running at Goodwin hitting him with a double kick to the face. Sally goes out to the ring apron. She pulls herself up onto the top rope, jumping off taking Goodwin down with the HIGH HOPES! Sally pushes Goodwin over covering him.

ONE!

TWO!!

...KICKOUT!!!

Sally looks up in shock. The referee holds up two fingers.

Dick Morosi:: She planted him with the High Hopes! That look on her face says it all.

Dick Morosi:: Right now, Talfourd needs to keep moving and stay on him. Goodwin will go down for a big move but at Talfourd’s size, it’s going to have to be a chain of them.

Dick Morosi:: Can David slay Goliath here at ExPro #35?!

Sally rises up to her feet. Goodwin rises up slowly, Sally kicks him in his stomach doubling him over. Sally grabs him around his head setting him up for the DANGER ZONE, Goodwin blocks it. He lifts Sally up throwing her down with a fireman’s carry slam. Goodwin rises up grabbing Sally up onto his shoulders throwing her out with the monstrous spinebuster. Goodwin covers her.

ONE!

TWO!!

...KICKOUT!!!

Dick Morosi:: She kicked out! How on earth did she do that?! Goodwin looks completely stunned!

Seth Ericson:: This is the night that Sally Talfourd is finally making her true mark in Exodus! She will not let this man hold her down!

Dick Morosi:: This isn’t about gender, this is about toughness! And right now, Sally Talfourd is the toughest son of a bitch in the building. What else will Goodwin have to do to keep her down? I’m pretty sure he’s running low on gas himself!

Goodwin rises up, he falls back against the ropes catching his breath. Sally rises up off the mat, she looks shaken. Goodwin runs at her, Sally dodges out of the way. Before Goodwin can turn, Sally kicks Goodwin in the back of his legs with a pair of stiff kicks. She jumps up hitting him with a dropkick in his back. Sally moves back across the ring. Goodwin turns to one knee, Sally runs at him, Goodwin runs at Sally looking for a lariat spinebuster but Sally counters...IMPLANT BUSTER!

ONE!

TWO!!

THREE!!!

David Zinkus: The winner of this match...Sally Talfourd!!

WINNER: Sally Talfourd

The camera fades in on Michelle Collins’s temporary office - a conference room inside the Hard Rock Hotel - where she is sitting across the table from Zack Lifer.

Michelle Collins: Mr. Lifer, the reason I’ve called you in here today is to speak about your conduct on social media and in the ring. While I understand your grievances with certain people, I also cannot emphasize enough that your words and actions are bringing you into highly dangerous territory. Yes, you were given your job back by court order, but you need to understand that if not for the government forcing their hands, my brother and Dr. Gray would not have hired you back. You have been on thin ice since you returned to EXODUS and yet you don’t seem to realize this! I’m trying here, Zack, I really am.

Michelle runs her hands back through her hair, her perfectly poised exterior seeming to crack just a bit.

Michelle Collins: But with the way you’ve been acting… it’s gotten to a point where me sticking my neck out for you has damaged my professional reputation and it’s risking my personal relationships as well. Yes, the company hired you back under duress, but that should have been a warning sign that you needed to make some changes. And I tried to help, I really did, but what good is me busting my ass trying to cover for you and keep your job for you when you won’t keep up your end of the bargain? I need you to actually listen to me when I tell you things, instead of making the same mistakes over and over again that lead to you getting into so much trouble in the first place!

She sighs heavily, taking a sip from a half-empty water glass on her desk.

Michelle Collins: Think of it like this. The last time you were on television, you told Alanna not to watch what you were about to do. Is that how you want to live your life, with your beloved daughter forbidden from watching her father on television for fear that it will affect how she sees you?

Leaning forward, Michelle Collins folds her hands on her desk and looks Zack Lifer in the eye.

Michelle Collins: How would it make you feel, Zack, if another wrestler put Alanna in the same position that you put Destiny in? Or threatened her on Twitter the way you’ve threatened our poor fanfiction writer? How do you think Heather Halliwell’s children felt, watching a man their mother called friend attempt to choke the life out of her on live television?

She pauses for a few moments, silently watching as Lifer digests this information.

Michelle Collins: I’m afraid that I can no longer be both your doctor and the director of EXODUS Pro. I didn’t realize just what a conflict of interest it would become. Of course, I will provide you with a list of my colleagues who are taking patients so that you can still get the care you need. But Zack, I’m letting you know that something needs to change and quickly, or else there may not be a place for you in the wrestling world anymore. Do I make myself clear?

Zack took a deep breath, solemnly nodding his head.

Zack Lifer: Crystal. You make a lotta sense, you do. And I just… I hate to see your professional integrity fall because of something I did, I mean that. I’ll keep everything you said in mind, but maybe you oughta consider just leaving me to the dogs from now on. You don’t deserve to sacrifice your image just ‘cause of me,

His words were surprisingly genuine, a sincere look in his eye as he looked across the desk, his eyes looking down slightly.

Zack Lifer: You’re right. I don’t wanna subject my daughter through all that. She doesn’t deserve to know her father’s a lost cause, to know that her dad’s some twisted monster. I don’t know. You gave me a lot to think about.

He sighed, a shred of Nick Kramer rising to the surface instead of Zack Lifer the wrestler, fiddling with his hands on his lap.

Zack Lifer: Just do me one simple favor, and I promise I’ll do my best - don’t ever let my actions reflect on you looking bad. You’re a good doctor, a great GM, I’m not blowing smoke up your ass, it’s just… There comes a point where you just look yourself in the mirror and realize that no matter the doctor, no matter the pills, you’re never gonna wake up and be like everyone else. It’s just not gonna happen, no matter how hard I try, but I’ll give it my best. I swear on Isabella’s grave, I’ll do my best. Is that good enough?

Michelle Collins: Yes it is. And for what it’s worth, I don’t believe in lost causes. You may not be like everyone else, but I believe that there’s still a good man underneath it all. You just need to find him.

He nodded softly, half-heartedly answering her.

Zack Lifer: Yeah. I suppose you’re right.

He gave her a small small, a real smile.

Zack Lifer: Is that it? No punishment, no staying after school, no writing on the chalkboard ten thousand times?

Michelle Collins: Your punishment is going to be getting fired if you keep this up. You’re on your last chance, Zack. After this, nothing I do will be able to help you get your job back. You’re facing expulsion, not detention. I don’t want to see it happen, but I have no more options. Thank you, you can go now.

We come back from commercial, and we cut to a hype video set to "In the Air Tonight" by Nonpoint! As the intro to the song starts, we cut to clips of both stars from Kingdom of Japan Pro Wrestling and EXODUS Pro!



It's a shot of Tsutomu Nishioka posing! Norihiro Akashi hitting the Dream Weaver! Caleb Storm hitting the Halo Smasher! Fiona Collins hitting the Shinigami!



Clips of the arrival of Monster Head Duo! Genji Yamato introducing us to the trainees of the Fighting Love Dojo! Shinji Uchikawa debuting his new Tadaime finisher in Japan! Kevin Hardaway slamming someone in the head with a chair!



More and more, shots of some of the amazing crowds that have filled arenas for KJPW and EXODUS are shown and as we cut to shots of the top champions like Justin Brooks, Chris Strike, Riki Ichiro, Naoki Fukuda all show, we cut down to the reminder.



EXHIBITION MATCH
CHRIS STRIKE (EXODUS Pro World Champion) vs. KOHEI OBATA

David Zinkus: The following contest is scheduled for one fall, standing in the ring, from Kyoto, weighing in at two hundred and thirty pounds! KOHEI! OBATA!

While “Stronger” by Kanye West + Daft Punk plays through the Hard Rock Casino and Hotel, the camera zooms in on the ring, focusing on Obata, who gets cheered on by a few members of the audience (the smart fans) who know him from his various stints on the independent scene, as well as in his home country of Japan. Kohei stretches and limbers up in the middle of the squared circle as he awaits for his opponent to arrive.

Dick Morosi: Here’s another young cup that will be hitting (R)evolution soon, Seth. However, tonight he has a strong chance to make a name for himself.

Seth Ericson: And an even stronger chance of being turned to mince meat by our EXODUS World Champion, who is not in the best of moods.

The house lights in the arena go out completely, thunder and rain can be heard from a distance, all while the image of a large mountain complete with a temple atop the peak is seen on the LCD screen while the beginning of “No More Regrets” by Arch Enemy blares out of the PA system, green spotlights beginning to swirl all across the arena. The LCD screen zones down from the heavens onto an field filled with high grass covering it and the wind beating against it…and at its center, there is one man standing and as he opens his way and lifts his head up, lightning strikes him down!

David Zinkus: And his opponent! From Sao Paulo, Brazil by way of Denver, Colorado… weighing in at two hundred and twenty pounds! He is the EXODUS World Champion. The War Machine! CHRIS! STRIKKKKKEEEE!

As the lightning hits the man at the center, streams of smoke shoot up from the ramp way area and high above, covering the entrance ramp as the song kicks into full motion, as Reika Seragaki emerges from the smoke first to heavy boos from the crowd and Chris Strike follows suit from behind her, slowly stepping out into the limelight, drawing a loud reaction from the EXODUS faithful as he stops in front of the entrance ramp and slowly raises his right arm up – EXODUS Pro World Heavyweight title held high as the smoke emerges higher and pyros shoot out from each side of the ramp before he makes his way down, having the occasional fans reaching out towards him from the rail, keeping his eyes solely focused on the ring, ignoring any distractions in his way while Reika Seragaki follows him from behind.

… Never again!
NOOOOOOOOOOOO! NO MORE REGRETS!
WHAT’S DONE IS DONE, CAN’T BE ERASED!
KNOW! KNOW YOUR REGRETS...SAVOR THE BITTER AFTERTASTE!!!!!

Chris then makes his way up the ring stairs, using the steel pole for support, putting his right foot over the middle rope while Reika Seragaki slides inside the ring. As he is about to get inside, Strike suddenly turns around and finds himself with both elbows locked around the top rope, his entire upper body exposed to the crowd’s sight while Reika Seragaki is just right behind him. Chris Strike slowly raises the EXODUS Pro World Heavyweight title in the air, savoring the moment as the crowd boos him with a grin while Reika applauds him, sitting themselves in the middle rope and allowing the champion to go under it with ease. He looks around at the crowd, raising the EXODUS Pro World title in the air again before walking to the nearest corner, leaning against the turnbuckle and observing his surroundings.

Dick Morosi: Chris Strike is not happy that he was unable to defeat Christian Kane two weeks ago at The War Isn’t Over Yet.

Seth Ericson: Poor choice of words there, Dick. He did beat Kane, by the simple fact that he’s still the World Champion.

Dick Morosi: Thanks to a draw, which many believe had the match gone any longer, Christian Kane would be the man carrying the big gold belt. Alas, Strike is still the man to beat in EXODUS.

Seth Ericson: We can dance on hypotheticals all we want, Dick. Right now it’s fight time.

DING! DING! DING!

As the bell chimes thrice, both competitors begin to inch toward the center of the ring. Despite being in the ring with a living legend, and the current EXODUS World Champion, Obata doesn’t show any immediate signs of nerves or jitters. Sensing this, the willy veteran from Brazil looks to get him out of sorts. In a blatant show of disrespect, The War Machine begins to hop on one leg in a Crane Kick position, mocking the young Japanese wrestler. Strike almost dares Obata to lay one on him with his arrogant, and reprehensible display. He doesn’t have to ask twice either. Chris is suddenly taken off his feet and left holding his money maker courtesy of a textbook Dropkick, as Kohei kicks him right in the kisser. Climbing back to his feet, the two time Heavyweight Champion looks on in shock, visibly appalled by his foe’s fearlessness. Gritting his teeth, Chris charges right at him - only to be sent flying in a forward somersault thanks to a perfect Japanese Arm Drag. Upon landing on the canvas, Strike scrambles back to his feet to rush his younger opponent once more - only to receive a second Japanese Arm Drag as the product of Kyoto handles him with relative ease. Flustered and on retreat, Chris stumbles to a stand and leans into the ropes - only to be sent over them as Kohei delivers a STIFF Clothesline. The spectators cheer loudly in wake of the shocking turn of events, as the EXODUS World Champion is left reeling by a relative unknown commodity.

Dick Morosi: I can’t believe what I’m seeing, Seth! This kid Kohei Obata, whoever he is… I have no idea. But right now that doesn’t matter. He’s playing with house money in the land of opportunity! This kid is taking the fight to Chris Strike, and dare I say he’s giving the World Champion all he can handle.

Seth Ericson: I won’t go that far, but I’m just as speechless as you are, Dick. He may not be anything special, but he’s still a professional wrestler who has nothing to lose. That’s what you’re seeing right now, and he’s got Strike licking his chops.

As The War Machine attempts to regain his bearings, Kohei begins to clap his hands, looking to get the crowd behind him. He doesn’t have to worry about that, as the audience cheers in support, hoping to will him to victory over one of their most hated figures. With a look of determination on his visage, Obata runs to the far ropes, leaning into the ring cables to build up a head of steam. As he nears the next set of ropes he suddenly leaps into the air, clearing them with a brilliant, and gravity defying somersault. Back on his feet now, Chris Strike scans the vicinity for his inexperienced adversary - only to find a shadow being casted over his body. As he looks up he sees Kohei plummeting from the sky, and can do absolutely nothing to protect himself as the two hundred and thirty pound upstart takes him out with a Tope Con Hilo. Both superstars lie on the floor in a heap of sweat and broken bodies - until Obata springs up to a stand, shaking his fist and playing to the crowd with fierce exuberance.

Dick Morosi: Obata is in control of this match, Seth. I can’t believe what I’m witnessing. He’s schooling Chris Strike. He’s taking the EXODUS World Champion to task for Christ’s sake!

Seth Ericson: We are in Vegas. Crazier things have happened, Dick.

Muffled by the sound of the crowd is referee Brian Lowery’s voice, as he yells at Obata to bring the action back into the ring. As the referee begins his ten count, Kohei looks to follow the rules, and begins to lift Strike up off the floor - only to receive a thumb to the eye that immediately blinds him. Having impaired the Kyoto native’s vision, Chris quickly takes him by the head and leads him toward the edge of the ring before shoving him head first into the steel post. Obata collapses from the point of impact, as the collision of chrome dome and steel emits an audible ruckus heard even in the cheap seats. With a frustrated look on his countenance, Strike goes right on the assault. He grabs Obata around the neck with one hand, and grips his ring trunks by the other, before tossing him head first into the guardrail. The audience in front row step back following the near car crash like collision. Unsatisfied with the results, the War Machine lifts his foe up again before tossing him even HARDER into the guardrail. As Obata lies in a crumpled heap on the floor, Strike raises an arm into the air to a chorus of boos.

Seth Ericson: There he is, there’s the World Champion we all know and love. He gave this kid his fifteen minutes of fame, but unfortunately for him fame is fickle!

Dick Morosi: I don’t quite see it that way. I saw Chris Strike getting bested, and as usual he had to resort to underhanded tactics to get the advantage.

As Brian Lowery reaches a count of six, Strike drags Obata’s deadweight to a vertical base before throwing him into the ring and climbing in after him. He quickly leaps into the air before dropping a knee across Kohei’s throat. He holds it there for a few seconds, compressing his opponent’s larynx whilst he cuts off his air supply. After being threatened with disqualification, Chris relinquishes his hold, and throws his arms up into the air to plead the fifth. With a self confident smirk etched on his mug, The War Machine leans down to grab Obata around the head, and slowly pulls him to his feet. With a hold of Obata’s arm, Strike pushes him back, before reeling him in RIGHT into a vicious Lariat. The World Champion isn’t done though. He drags Kohei back to his feet, and pushes him back once again before pulling him forward and stepping right into ANOTHER STIFF LARIAT! With a sickening smirk on his face Strike leans down to grab Obata by the head for a third consecutive time. The young superstar looks visibly out of it after having been beheaded two times in a row by the veteran of over a decade. With an evil look in his eyes, Strike goes for a the Lariat again - but misses. Obata ducks, ending up behind the World Champion, allowing him to pull the Brazilian down into a School Boy Pin.

”ONE!”

“TWO!”

“THR - NO KICKOUT!”

Just at the last second Strike is able to kick out of the pin. He goes along with the momentum, and rolls back until he sits up one knee. Springing back to his feet, Kohei quickly charges right at him, only to run into a SHOTEI! The Open Palm Strike cracks him right in the face, knocking him visibly unconscious as the slap echoes through the arena.

Seth Ericson: What did the hand say to the face, Dick? SLAP!

Dick Morosi: You make me sick sometimes, Seth.

No longer pussyfooting around, Chris Strike lifts Kohei’s deadweight up to vertical base, leans him over and places his head between his legs in a standing headscissors. The War Machine then reaches around his opponent's midsection before lifting him upside down. From there he hooks his arms around one of Obata’s legs, before dropping down to spike him head first into the canvas with the Nepenthe.

Dick Morosi: NEPENTHE! This is one is over, thank God.

With Obata possibly concussed, and sprawled, Strike climbs back to his feet. Instead of going for a traditional lateral press, the World Champion simply puts a boot onto his lifeless opponent’s chest, and shouts at Brian Lowery to count. After putting up a protest, Lowery has no choice but to acknowledge the pinfall. As he drops down to make the count, The War Machine flexes his muscle to deafening boos.

”ONE!”

“TWO!”

“THREE!”

*DING! DING! DING*

"No More Regrets" sounds on the P.A. system as the EXODUS World Champion stands tall in the ring, grinning from ear to ear while the crowd tries to drown out his theme music with boos and jeers.

WINNER: Chris Strike

Dick Morosi: What a joke. I have more class in my finger than Chris Strike has in his entire body. He's an indictment of this company, and the values we promote.

Seth Ericson: Oh hush, Dick. He's the EXODUS World Champion. You may not like his methods, hell you don't even have to like him, but you will respect him. Otherwise, that will happen to you.

Upon receiving his World Championship from Brian Lowery, Strike shoves the senior official aside. Draping the belt over his shoulder, The War Machine motions to the back. Suddenly, the lights begin to dim, and a spotlight fixates itself on him. Closing his eyes, the two time World Champion slowly raises his prestigious title into the air, showing off even more.

Dick Morosi: And this is why he has lost my respect, as well as the respect of the lockeroom, and the respect of these fans. It's that ego of his. He thinks he's bigger than everyone. Bigger than EXODUS even.

Seth Ericson: Well until someone knocks him off the top of the mountain, he may very well be.




The crowd roars as the lights flash pink and blue alternately before the lights in the arena come back on permanently to reveal Christian Kane on the stage, seated atop a ladder! The New Hope smirks down the ramp at Chris Strike, who seems incensed as he grabs the ropes facing Kane and the ladder. He starts to bark up at Kane, who simply holds a finger up before lifting a microphone to his lips.

Christian Kane: You’re probably going to want to calm down there, champ. I mean, I know you probably tired yourself out beating down a rookie...but don’t overexert yourself. After all I was pretty sure you’d still be lying unconscious in San Diego - you know, how I left you.

Kane shakes his head, holding up three fingers in faux-disappointment before continuing.

Christian Kane: But you see Strike, that’s why I’m out here...that’s why I’m up here. No one likes a draw, do they? I certainly didn’t, you absolutely didn’t, and more importantly...the fans didn’t. They don’t wanna see a champion who wastes their time beating down rookies. Did I embarrass you that badly, Strike? Did I show you up that much at The War Isn’t Over Yet that you seek validation against a kid? You’ve fallen so far already...and you’ll fall over and over and over again at Battle Without Honor Or Humanity 2 because you’re going to defend that title against me one more time...in a LADDER MATCH. No time limits. No ties. One winner. Whoever climbs this ladder and unhooks that title belt will be the EXODUS Pro World Heavyweight Champion. No excuses, no nothing. So, champ, what do you say?

In a fit of range Chris Strike climbs onto the second rope, pointing at Kane and shouting loud enough for the cameras to pick up.

Chris Strike: ANY TIME! ANY PLACE!

He then raises his title belt, staring down The New Hope who grins at Strike’s response. The pair stare at each other, eyes locked for a tense few moments where the crowd is rapturous before the camera cuts to commercials.

Dick Morosi: Well... that was certainly a thing.

Seth Ericson: First Furor, now Kira T. Zeppeli... what's next? Daisuke Iwakuma? Are we going to have to deal with a resurrected Gods & Monsters?

Dick Morosi: No idea, Seth, but what I do know is that up next we have Saikosoma battling "The New Hope" Christian Kane!

REGULAR MATCH
CHRISTIAN KANE vs. SAIKOSOMA

The lights slowly die away as the opening to Aphex Twin's "vordhosbn" slinks across the speakers. As the frenetic, fractured beat and the urgent screech of the synthesisers fill the darkness, a shape starts moving through the crowd. What little light remains in the auditorium catches flashes of bright colours within the distorted silhouette as it steadily makes its way down the stands and over the guardrail to the ring. Over the course of five or six seconds, the house lights flicker back on in sections to reveal - perched at the top of a ringpost like a gargoyle - the feathered and face-painted form of Saikosoma. She leans back, spreading her arms out, then leaps into the centre of the ring. She drops to a kneeling position and spreads her arms again, looking around the audience, then slithers backwards on her knees and belly to her corner.



The guitars and drums of the timeless Bon Jovi classic kick in throughout the arena as Christian Kane makes his way through the curtain and onto the stage. Red and white lights focus on the Canadian Sensation and flash rapidly, drawing attention to him whilst smoke pours across the entranceway. Holding his arms out in a ‘T’, the lights begin to illuminate his silhouette as David Zinkus speaks.

David Zinkus: ...now making his way to the ring...CHRISTIAN KANE!

With a grin Kane proceeds down the ramp, acknowledging certain fans with his merch, a few who wield signs, even going as far as to slap their hands before slowly coming to a stop at ringside. Christian stares at the ring, a stoic, focused expression that eventually turns into a smirk as Kane makes his way up the steps, the crowd cheering for him all the while over his music.

From the apron The Handsome Drifter climbs the turnbuckle, his left foot standing on the second rope while his right is on the top rope. He then lowers his jacket, allowing his jacket to slide off his body to the floor before holding his arms out to his side again and tensing his muscles, inciting an extremely loud reaction from the audience in attendance once more.

After hopping into the ring Kane runs across to the diagonally opposite turnbuckle before blowing a kiss into the crowd as high pitched cheers rain out from the female contingent of the die-hard EXODUS Pro faithful (mostly). As the music slowly fades, Kane jumps down backwards into the ring and walks to his corner, preparing for the match ahead.

The bell sounds.

They circle one another slowly in the middle of the ring. They move into a collar and elbow tie up. Kane grabs Saikosoma into a headlock. She sends him off into the ropes. Saikosoma runs off the ropes back at Kane, he drops down she runs over him back into the ropes. Saikosoma runs off the ropes back at Kane, he leapfrogs over Saikosoma as she returns into the ropes. Saikosoma runs back at Kane, he takes her over with a hip toss. Saikosoma returns to her feet, Kane grabs her taking her over with an arm drag. They both bounce back up, Kane takes Saikosoma over with a side headlock takedown.

Dick Morosi:: Christian Kane showing some great technique in the early going.

Seth Ericson:: Christian Kane has to be buzzing over losing to Chris Strike two weeks ago. Tonight is his chance to bounce back.

They return to their feet. Saikosoma sends Kane off. He runs off the ropes back at Saikosoma, she leapfrogs over him. Kane runs back into the ropes back at Saikosoma she takes him down with a hard clothesline. Saikosoma grabs Kane around his head planting him down with a bulldog before floating over, as Saikosoma takes Kane around the back of his head into a rear chinlock. They return to their feet, Saikosoma has Kane into a side headlock now before Kane goes around into a go behind taking Saikosoma back into a side headlock of his own. Saikosoma sends him off into the ropes and Kane runs back at Saikosoma, she goes to grab him, Kane flips over back onto his feet grabbing Saikosoma throwing her down with a hard bodyslam.

Dick Morosi:: Saikosoma didn’t see that coming!

Seth Ericson:: The Handsome Drifter flipped over getting away from Saikosoma taking her down with a bodyslam. Very nice work from The Handsome Drifter.

Kane goes to grab Saikosoma up, but she comes up nailing him with a stiff European uppercut sending him back onto the mat. Saikosoma grabs Kane around his head she lifts him up and down with a snap suplex. Saikosoma rises up dropping an elbow drop down onto Kane. She turns covering him.

ONE!

TWO!!

KICKOUT!

They return to their feet aa Saikosoma runs back off the ropes running back at Kane, she runs at him, Kane kicks Saikosoma in the stomach doubling her over. Kane grabs Saikosoma hooking up her arms throwing her back with a double underhook suplex! Kane pulls Saikosoma to her feet once again, nailing her with a pair of punches. Kane jumps up taking Saikosoma down with a standing dropkick. Kane goes out to the ring apron making his way up to the top rope. Kane rises up leaping off for a crossbody, but Saikosoma dodges out of the way, Kane crashes into the mat.

Dick Morosi:: Crash and burn for The Handsome Drifter!!

Saikosoma runs at Kane kicking him in his side with a stiff soccer-style kick. She pulls him up to his feet and Saikosoma nails him with a pair of slaps to each side of his face! She grabs him around his arm sending him down with a side Russian leg sweep as Kane crashes face first into the mat. Saikosoma rises up to her feet and she goes to the ropes moving out to the ring apron. Saikosoma makes her way up to the top rope, to steady her before Saikosoma leaps off landing down onto Kane with a Split-Legged Corkscrew Moonsault right into a cover!

ONE!

TWO!!

KICKOUT!!

Saikosoma pulls Kane up to his feet. She sends him into the corner and Saikosoma runs in at him, but Kane dodges out of the way, Saikosoma slams hard into the turnbuckles. Saikosoma staggers back and turns around out of the corner. Kane runs at Saikosoma nailing her with a running clothesline. Kane turns, Saikosoma rises up off the mat, he spins around nailing her with a roaring elbow. Kane stands over Saikosoma, he jumps up landing down onto her with a standing shooting star press. Kane covers her.

ONE!

TWO!!

KICKOUT!!

Kane rises up to his feet, looking over at the referee for a faster count as Saikosoma slowly moves up. Kane runs at her, but she nails him with a jumping clothesline. Saikosoma pulls Kane up to his feet and she sends him off into the ropes for a clothesline. Kane ducks under the clothesline attempt. Kane jumps up dropping Saikosoma with the SSK! Kane covers her.

ONE!

TWO!!

THREE!!!

David Zinkus:: The winner of this match Christian Kane!!

Dick Morosi:: Christian Kane gets the win!

WINNER: Christian Kane

Seth Ericson: That's the man right there! Christian Kane goes to the next round of the Honor Cup! Saikosoma put up a good fight but in the end, there's nothing anyone can do to stop The New Hope!

Dick Morosi: Right you are, Seth! Let's head for a commercial break.

Elsewhere backstage, we’re greeted by the man who opened tonight’s show; “The Voice of the Ace,” Jimmy Riley. Fiona Collins is nowhere to be found, much less anyone to speak to him. After a slight pause, Jimmy begins speaking.

Jimmy Riley: Ladies and gentlemen, earlier tonight I promised both you...and mara...a response. More than a response, the “terms” set forth by myself and “The Ace of EXODUS,” Fiona Collins.

See, EXODUS has become a bit of a family affair. Whether it’s Jonathan, Fiona, Mara, or Michele Collins, it’s definitely become regular for things to be handled the way this family would have it be. And so, at Battle Without Honor or Humanity, that’s exactly what will happen. That’s exactly what we’ll have, actually; a battle without humanity. mara, you want Fiona to “unleash” whatever monster you believe to be bubbling under her skin, lurking in her mind. I’m here to tell you that you’re going to get just that.

Jimmy pauses, letting the weight of what he’s about to say precede him.

Jimmy Riley: So, what we’re going to do, with the full…disapproval of our esteemed Director -- that’s right. Michele Collins, when presented with our proposal, refused to sanction this match. She refused to put on her conscience, that of Nicholas Gray, or that of her brother, mara’s brother, Fiona’s husband, and the co-owner of this company, the violence that mara and Fiona so crave to inflict against each other. But she understood the stakes! She understood what exists between both competitors, that this has to end!

So, again. What we’re going to do...let’s take the ropes down, mara. Take them down, take them away, and replace them with equally long, tight strands of barbed wire. Then, for each side of the ring, we’ll take an extra spool of barbed wire, and we’ll wrap it around each set of wire. You want a war? You want a battle without humanity? This is your wish?

Your wish is our command. Unsanctioned, no-ropes barbed wire match. Your fate, mara, lies in the hands of The Ace.

Jimmy lets that hang as we head back to the ring.

NORMAL MATCH
JUSTIN BROOKS (EXODUS Pro International Champion) vs. CHUCK MATTHEWS

David Zinkus: The following contest is scheduled for one fall.

The heavy bridge of "Brains" erupts through the speakers as spotlights race across the crowd. Chuck Matthews steps out onto the stage, looking around at the people in attendance. He smiles, taking in the reaction of the fans. Casually, Chuck begins his walk towards the ring. He moves calmly, but quickly, making no effort to interact with fans until he reaches the apron. At this point, he climbs up, leaning with his back against the ropes, looking out at the crowd. He winks, and steps between the ropes before climbing one of the corners. He raises his arms in his signature horns before hopping down. He rolls his wrists and neck, waiting for the Big Bad Brooks to arrive.

Dick Morosi: Just over seven months ago the Smartest Man In Wrestling was sent packing from EXODUS Pro. Two weeks ago he returned in impressive fashion with a victory over Dante Q. That match could only be considered a tune up for what he’s got tonight.

Seth Ericson: He’s about to get in there with the baddest man on the planet in a showdown to answer the age old question of which is better; brains or brawn.

ウィル

殺す

あなた

The lights go out.

The arena is plunged into darkness as EXODUS PRO crowd rumbles with excitement as a few cellphone screens light up sprinkling throughout the darkness like fireflies.



David Zinkus: And his opponent...hailing from Atlanta, Georgia by way of Knoxville, Tennessee...he is the EXODUS PRO INTERNATIONAL CHAMPION...the Monster of the Bay, Justin BROOKS!

The heavy drum and bass of the "March of Death" pours through the PA system as a single spotlight shines at the entrance as from the curtain come the Big Bad Brooks, paying homage to his many months on the Japanese circuit for the KJPW. With a black hood sweatshirt with his hood up over his head, he slowly makes his way towards the ring. He receives a mixed reaction upon his appearance as his strides are long and slowly as he finally reaches the steel steps and climbs into the ring with the EXODUS Pro International Title in his hands. Crossing the ring, he climbs the far turnbuckle and climbs to the second rung before reaching up and pulls his hood back just as the lights up to him holding the International Title high in the air.

Dick Morosi: Justin Brooks is coming fresh off a hard fought victory over Las Vegas native, Savannah Taylor in a match that saw him successfully defend his International Championship.

Seth Ericson: He put EXODUS on notice at The War Isn’t Over Yet. It’s going to take a hell of an effort for anyone to stop this behemoth.

Dick Morosi: That, and wits, which Chuck Matthews most definitely possesses. We’ll see if those are the ingredients needed to slay the Monster of the Bay.

Seth Ericson: That’s the bell, and we’re underway!

DING! DING! DING!

Brooks puts his hands on his knees and leans over to take a deep breath one last time, getting ready to start the match. On the other side of the ring, Chuck Matthews goes over his gameplan, continuing to plot and scheme whilst he sizes up the massive International Champion. The two competitors finally make their moves, circling the ring a few times before inching closer and closer to one another. Justin extends a hand out, trying to entice his foe into a test of strength which Matthews acknowledges and appears to accept- only until he rushes in to ram his boot into Justin’s solar plexus. Once his adversary doubles over, the Smartest Man in Wrestling charges forward to ram his boot right into the crown of the Southerners head. JB drops down like a bad habit, visibly stunned by his opponent’s sneak attack. Having executed his strategy to perfection, Matthews jumps into the air before slamming his right knee into the back of Brooks’ neck. The Int. Champ’s body convulses from the sharp pain in his neck before he rolls under the bottom rope and falls to the outside of the ring.

The vindictive Matthews doesn’t allow him any time to recuperate though, as he hastily climbs through the middle and top rope and steps onto the ring apron. From there, Chuck jumps off the ring apron and lands an elbow drop right to Justin’s head. Brooks collapses to the ground from the impact, but Chuck doesn’t him a chance to catch his breath, as he forces the issue once again. Grabbing his foe around the head with one hand, and gripping the brim of his shorts with the other, Matthews drags The Big Bad Brooks to a vertical base before running with him, and ramming him head first into the steel steps.

Dick Morosi: Chuck Matthews has come out swinging so far. After catching Brooks off guard early on, he’s been able to follow that up with vicious blows.

Seth Ericson: Matthews knows you’ve got to strike while the iron is hot when you’re in the ring with a wrestler the caliber of Justin Brooks. Once you’ve got him down you’ve got to stay on him. That’s what he’s doing right now, and that’s why he’s a genius.

Dick Morosi: That much is debatable, however, what can’t be argued is the success he’s having so far in the match. Those steel stairs have no give, and he just sent the International Champion head first into them.

Seth Ericson: That’s called using your head the wrong way. Dick.

Matthews gradually pulls Brooks back to his feet, pulling him away from the ring and toward the guardrail. Lowering his shoulder, Chuck burrows right into his foe’s gut to drive him back right into the security railing. The Int. Champion grimaces in pain from the point of impact, only to have his face rearranged by a nasty Muay Thai elbow strike. The Chicagoan follows that up with a second, and then a third elbow strike to force the issue, and more importantly leave his adversary seeing stars. Grabbing a hold of his foe’s arm now, the villain drags Justin off the guardrail, seemingly setting him up for an Irish Whip. Instead, Matthews pivots on his feet, changes his position, and reels the Monster of the Bay in before sweeping him off his feet with a Drop Toe Hold. As a consequence, the Georgian’s momentum is forced forward, ending with his visage being acquainted with the railing, garnering groans from those in attendance.

Dick Morosi: Face first into the guard rail. Chuck Matthews is dominating the International Champion right now.

Seth Ericson: Brooks has to find a way to survive this assault, Dick. So far, Matthews has proven that his intellect trumps Justin’s strength and athleticism.

Dick Morosi: I’m not sure what any of that has to do with banging a man’s head off a steel structure, but the point still holds. If Justin doesn’t pull himself together soon, he may not make it out of Vegas.

Seth Ericson: Well, he can always play the slots.

Referee Dan Arnouil’s ten count has reached eight, prompting Chuck to roll underneath the bottom rope, only to slide back outside to restart the count. Matthews grabs Brooks around the head, pulling him off the rail only to slam his forehead back into it. He pulls his head back once again, before driving it forward into the guardrail for a second time. From there the Chicagoan scoops the Heavyweight up onto his shoulders, looking to drop him onto the guardrail from an elevated position. Aware of his opponent’s bad intentions, Justin quickly slides down the genius’ back, falling to his feet behind Matthes before staggering back toward the ring apron. After shaking the cobwebs, Brooks charges forward, but Chuck sees it coming, and counters with a Hip Toss, sending the Monster of the Bay flying over the guardrail and into the crowd. The Smartest Man in Wrestling gets to his feet and stumbles toward the ring after dodging the proverbial bullet. With a smile on his countenance he rolls under the bottom rope, as the referee reaches a count of five.

Seth Ericson: They say having these row tickets literally put the action right in your lap. Dick, I think Justin just proved that wasn’t a marketing ploy.

Dick Morosi: Brooks almost gained the upperhand there, but now he finds himself on the wrong side of the referee’s ten count after Chuck sent him crashing over the barrier.

As Dan Arnouil continues to count, Chuck climbs back to his feet, tapping his head several times to draw the scorn of the crowd. On the outside looking in, Brooks is seen struggling to his feet, surrounded by fans who shout words of encouragement, and slap him on the shoulder to will him on. The Big Bad Brooks climbs over the guardrail, and crawls across ringside, finding it difficult to stay on his twos considering the punishment he’s endured. Showing his resolve, Justin grabs the apron and uses it to pull himself to a vertical base at the count of nine. With a jolt of energy and adrenaline, he slides into the ring under the bottom rope just before ten, sending the crowd into a frenzy as the cheer him on. Frustrated by his opponent’s resiliency, Matthews doesn’t allow that to discourage him from staying on the attack, as he quickly drops down to execute a lateral press.

“ONE!”

“TWO!”

THR- NO!”

Justin rolls a shoulder over to break the count. Climbing back to his feet, Matthews allows Brooks to crawl into the nearby corner before unleashing a mudhole stomping on the wounded warrior.

“ONE!”

“TWO!”

“THREE!”

“FOUR!”

At five the Smartest Man in Wrestling relents, leaving his opponent gasping for air and holding his sternum which suffered the brunt of the assault. Chuck is pulled into the center of the ring, where he receives a verbal tongue lashing from the zebra-clad official. Meanwhile, the Monster of the Bay slowly climbs to his feet, using the ropes on either side of him as a crutch. Seeing this, Matthews pushes the referee aside, and begins to size his opponent up. Without a moment’s hesitation the Chicagoan charges forward - only to run into Brooks’ tree trunk like arms as the International Champion embraces him with a waistlock, then tosses him overhead with a Belly to Belly Suplex, launching Matthews right into the turnbuckles!

Dick Morosi: What a counter! Justin Brooks has finally come to play, Seth.

Seth Ericson: But is it too little too late? Let’s see how much he’s got left in the tank.

Both men struggle to get back to their feet now, with Justin beating Matthews to the punch. The Monster of the Bay quickly explodes out of the blocks to take the Chicagoan down with a near guillotine like Leaping Clothesline. The Smartest Man in Wrestling scrambles back to his feet though - only to have his head nearly taken off his shoulders again courtesy of another Jumping Clothesline. Running on pure adrenaline now, Brooks drags his opponent to a vertical base before launching him HARD into the corner. Matthews crashes back first into the turnbuckle padding, the wind apparently being knocked out of him following the collision. The benefactor of G&M and HATE looks down to the canvas, visibly stunned by the combination of moves. Once he lifts his vision he feasts his eyes on the incoming freight train, as the Georgian locomotive crashes into him with a shoulder thrust, nearly splitting him in two. As the air is expelled from his lungs, Chuck finds himself pulled from the corner, and back into his foe’s not so warm embrace. The Monster of the Bay lists him up before turning and slamming him into the canvas with a Front Body Slam. From there he hooks the legs for the pin.

”ONE!”

“TWO!”

“THR- NO! KICKOUT!”

Dick Morosi: The Monster of the Bay is wreaking havoc right now.

Seth Ericson: Like Godzilla in a small Japanese village. I can only make that joke in America, Dick. Justin provided the perfect segway.

Dick Morosi: He might be about to provide some Hook N’ Ladder for The Smartest Man in Wrestling too.

Brooks lifts the Chicagoan onto his shoulders in a Fireman’s Carry, but Chuck isn’t going down quietly. He quickly wriggles his arms and legs, causing Justin to lose his grip and thus, allowing him to slide down his back to safety. Aware of his ring positioning, Matthews quickly shoves the International Champion forward toward the corner. However, Justin is able to halt his momentum in time to prevent a chest first collision with the turnbuckle padding. Searching the whereabouts of his opponent now, the Monster of the Bay turns around - only to block an Enziguri with the side of his head, causing him to fall over like a severed tree. Chuck hooks the leg!

”ONE!”

“TWO!”

“THR- NO! KICKOUT!”

Seth Ericson: Close nearfall from the Smartest Man in Wrestling who appears to have had enough of Justin Brooks for one night.

Dick Morosi: He’s in the corner, and he’s stalking his prey. Here comes the Hollywood Impact!

Chuck Matthews charges out of the corner like a bat out of hell, lowering his shoulder for the Hollywood Impact. Unfortunately for him, Justin Brooks has the move well scouted, and bends down to lift his opponent off his feet, using his momentum against him before slamming him into the canvas with an AUTHORITATIVE Spinebuster. Smelling blood in the water now, Justin drags the Chicagoan to a stand and quickly lifts him up onto his shoulders into the fireman’s carry, before flipping it into the Thunder Driver and planting Matthews into the canvas.

Dick Morosi: There it is! Hook N’ Ladder!

Seth Ericson: Game! Set! Match!

”ONE!”

“TWO!”

“THREE!”

DING! DING! DING!

As the bell chimes thrice, "March of Death" hits the P.A. system as Justin Brooks climbs to his feet, raising his arm in triumph.

Dick Morosi: What a showing from the International Champion. He met a game Chuck Matthews in a non-title affair, but once again the Monster of the Bay stands tall.

Seth Ericson: Justin Brooks is on a roll, Dick. He's beginning to look unbeatable, and I'm starting to believe he'll be holding onto that belt for a long, long time.

Dick Morosi: With the way he's been tearing it up as of late, it's certainly possible.

WINNER: Justin Brooks

As Justin is celebrating in the ring, hoisting his title high above his head to the delight of the fans in the arena, the figure of Las Vegas native Savannah Taylor slides into the ring. The applause showed towards Justin slowly dies down as Savannah stands just behind Justin, her head cocked slightly to one side as she waits for him to turn around. She doesn’t have to wait long as the Monster by the Bay turns around and is immediately met by a clothesline that came from almost nowhere. The crowd is somewhat stunned as Justin is down for a moment before he makes his way to his feet. However just as soon as he gets to his feet and tries to move towards Savannah, she immediately kicks him square in the stomach and proceeds to drop him with the Siren’s Song. To the surprise of the announcers at ringside, the partisan crowd is actually cheering what Savannah just did.

Dick Morosi: Am I hearing what I think I’m hearing? These fans are actually cheering for Savannah after what she just did.

Seth Ericson: Why wouldn’t they? She’s the hometown girl, Dick!

Before Dick has a chance to respond, Savannah has procured a microphone from David Zinkus and has made her way back over to the fallen International champion. She watches him lay almost motionless on the mat as she begins to speak.

Savannah Taylor: Justin, Justin, Justin. Congratulations on such a hard fought victory just now. You sure put up one HECK of a fight. I mean, these people are going to be talking about it the next day around the water cooler. But I’m here to let you know right now that amateur hour is over. You have something that I want. I know the last time that we met in this ring, you beat me. But just because you beat me doesn’t mean you were the better wrestler……because you weren’t. Everyone who watched knows that I was the better wrestler. But guess what Justin? I have some good news. EXODUS has an event coming up that is the second biggest event of the year. It’s called Battle Without Honor Or Humanity. What is special about it is the fact that it is being held right here at the Hard Rock.

She pauses for a second as she lets the fans cheer.

Savannah Taylor: You must be wondering where I’m going with this. At Battle Without Honor Or Humanity, you WILL be putting your International title on the line against me once again. I don’t care if you want to or not. This match WILL happen one way or another. You may have had the edge in the RIMAC, but this time, the odds are in MY favor. Las Vegas is MY city and these are MY people. I am very much looking forward to ending your reign as International champion. Only this time, the odds will be in my favor, not yours.

With that, she drops the mic on the mat right next to Justin’s head as she gives a little wave before sliding out of the ring. As she walks up the aisle, she turns around towards the ring and makes the motions that the title will be hers. The fans still shockingly cheer for their hometown girl as the scene cuts to commercial.