Post by Admin on Apr 17, 2023 22:40:38 GMT -5
REBIRTH - April 15, 2023
Scott Parker: Welcome to EW’s Rebirth! Tonight we bring you an incredible eight matches for Empire Wrestling’s first ever Rebirth event. Our main event features two of the greatest competitors in EW history and a second generation upstart with a bright future. That second generation star, Melody Slayton, won a tournament to get here, the former Primetime Champion lasted 876 days as champion and gave up her title for the shot. Both earned a chance to take on Tia Santos, our World Champion and one of the greatest competitors in EW history as she’s NEVER been made to submit or been pinned in the Empire Wrestling ring.
Gemma Foster: It’s a match that can easily change the course of EW forever!
Scott Parker: We have the Spartan Championship, the Extreme Championship, and a Tag Team Championship match tonight as well. As well as two matches that, according to Tom Carr, will have future implications for the vacant Primetime Championship.
Gemma Foster: And a match I’m looking forward to, Scott. It’s Lacy Nelson and FM Young. It’s been one of the most personal rivalries in Empire Wrestling history and it all started over 4 years ago. Lacy Nelson debuted with an attack on FM Young and Chelsea Pryce. Then, April 17, 2019 at Next Level: Revolution we saw the first match between FM and Lacy. From there they’ve competed against each other, been a pair, and now Lacy is ready to settle scores.
Scott Parker: It should be an incredible match and an amazing event tonight.
Hanako Vs. Casey Grey Vs. Jessica Carter
Gemma Foster: Let’s get the show started!
It was time for our opening match as Hanako came to the ring to a nice pop as she rolled into the ring. Casey Grey was out next and she quickly made her way to the ring as she tossed her hat into the crowd.
Scott Parker: Casey Grey looking for a win here tonight to turn things around. She has been in a slump but Casey has always been able to bounce back.
Carter came out last as she waved to the fans in the Warehouse. She climbed into the ring and the match was set to get underway. Hanako had to quickly duck a clothesline from Grey and Carter caught her with a dropkick. Hanako and Carter locked up and Carter wrenched the arm of Hanako. Hanako flipped over and took Carter down with a monkey flip. Hanako popped up and Grey grabbed her from behind and hit a German suplex. Grey pulled Hanako up and sent her into the ropes. Hanako looked for a crossbody but Grey caught her in mid-air. Carter came flying off the top rope and dropkicked Hanako and Hanako crashed on Grey. Carter got to her feet and was fired up as Hanako climbed back to her feet. The two locked up and Hanako sent her into the corner. Hanako charged and missed a corner splash on Carter. Grey grabbed Carter and hit a backstabber!
Scott Parker: It’s been non-stop action all around the ring to kick things off here, Gemma.
Hanako jumped off the second turnbuckle and hit Grey with a headscissors takedown. Hanako started to get up but was rocked by a shining wizard from Carter! Carter went into a cover for just one before Hanako kicked out. Carter started to pull Hanako up and then dumped her to the outside. Carter grabbed Grey and started to set up for the Bonne Nuit (Headlock driver) but Grey countered and was able to hit a belly to back suplex. Both competitors got to their feet and Grey delivered her GTO (Fisherman Driver). Grey covered and got a two before Hanako was there to break it up. Hanako pulled Grey up and sent her into the corner. Carter got to her feet and looked for a clothesline on Hanako but Hanako ducked it and then caught her with an overhead kick. Carter stumbled into the same corner as Grey and Hanako hit a big corner splash on them both. Hanako pulled Carter to the center of the ring and connected with the Fūkiri (Reverse Ddt into facebuster). Hanako went for a cover but Grey pulled her off at two.
Gemma Foster: Casey Grey able to save it there.
Grey kicked Hanako in the face as she tried to pull her to her feet. Grey was up and Carter hit her with the Bonne Nuit! Carter turned to Hanako and was taken down with a float over DDT. Hanako looked around and hit her Geitō (Starship pain) on Grey and picked up a pinfall victory!
WINNER: Hanako via pinfall @ 15:33
Hanako celebrated in the ring after her victory as she shook the hand of Carter. Grey rolled out of the ring and shook her head as we cut away.
Family Matters
The camera heads backstage to the locker room, where we find Melody Slayton preparing for easily the biggest match of her young career. There is a knock on the door, interrupting her stretching.
Melody Slayton: Come in!
The door opens up and the crowd cheers as former Empire Wrestling competitor David Slayton walks into view, flanked by his wife, Jen and her sister, current BWF World Champion Emily Corlen.
Melody Slayton: Dad! Mom! Auntie Em! You’re all here!
Melody runs over and hugs her dad, who chuckles.
David Slayton: Of course we are, kiddo. You didn’t think we’d miss your first pay-per-view main event, did you? I mean, my baby girl is literally moments away from winning her first World Title. There’s no WAY we’d be anywhere else tonight.
Melody Slayton: I mean, I’m hopeful that I’ll win, but... I have some real stiff competition. Things might not go the way I want them to tonight.
Jen shakes her head.
Jen Slayton: No, no. None of that, dear. You earned your place in this match as much as anyone else did. You defeated two dominant former World Champions in order to make it to this match. You’ve more than proven yourself worthy already, regardless of what your opponents might think.
Emily Corlen: Yeah, and take it from someone who literally lost to Effy over in Limitless a few weeks ago… she’s a tough nut to crack. Just beating her is an accomplishment. Beating her, Hanako AND Casey Grey? You’re absolutely ready for this, Melly Belly.
Melody immediately blushes a shade of crimson as she quiet-loud whispers “OHMIGOD DON’T CALL ME THAT ON NATIONAL TELEVISION”. Emily laughs loudly as Dave puts his hands on his daughter’s shoulders.
David Slayton: Hey. No matter what happens out there tonight, you know we’re all proud of you. But don’t for one moment go out there and second-guess yourself. You absolutely deserve this spotlight, this moment. So, I need you to promise me something.
Melody nods.
David Slayton: Don’t go out there tonight thinking you have to win the title for me. We both know my history with this company, and what happened when I tried to become Empire Wrestling World Champion. That’s ancient history, Mel. Don’t go out there for your mom, or your aunt, or literally anybody but yourself. Tonight is YOUR moment. As long as you go out there and give it your all - for YOURSELF - win or lose, you’ll have no regrets. Can you do that for dear ol’ Dad?
She grins.
Melody Slayton: Yes, sir. Now, when I DO win the title, how long is too long to celebrate?
Everyone in the room laughs and Dave gives Melody a small affectionate noogie.
David Slayton: Oh, this kid. I like the way you think. And you know what? Celebrate as long as you want. When you win tonight - you’ll have earned every single second of it.
Dave winks before he and Melody share another hug. This time, Jen and Emily join in.
Jen Slayton: Alright, we’re heading out to our seats. We’ll be near ringside. Good luck tonight, baby.
Emily Corlen: Go kill it out there, kid.
David Slayton: Show Tia Santos, Marilyn Lee Cross, and everybody out there watching exactly what it means to be a Slayton.
Melody nods and grins excitedly as the rest of her family exits the locker room. She turns to her belongings, picks up a small necklace and rests it against her forehead for a moment.
Melody Slayton: I can do this.
A beat.
Melody Slayton: I WILL do this.
She places the necklace back in her bag, takes a deep breath, and turns her attention back to stretching as the camera fades back to ringside.
SPARTAN CHAMPIONSHIP
Austin Scott Vs. “Reverend” Martin West (c)
Gemma Foster: We’re about to see a hard hitting match here, Scott.
Austin Scott’s music hit as he came out to the stage and threw his arm in the air. He pointed out to the fans and paced on the stage before making his way down to the ring. The crowd began to boo as the champion, Martin West, came out to the stage. He stood at the top of the ramp with the Spartan Championship around his waist. He slowly walked to the ring and placed the title on the apron before pulling himself up and into the ring. The referee showed off the title and things were set. The two locked up and Scott was full of fury and landed hard blows to the head. West was sent into the ropes and came back with a shoulder tackle. Scott popped back up and West looked for a discus clothesline but Scott hit a pump kick to the arm. Scott quickly grabbed the arm and hit an armbreaker on West. Scott then stomped on the arm of West and locked in an arm lock.
Scott Parker: Austin Scott with a smart strategy here as he’s going to target that right arm of Martin West so he can’t land that big blow.
West is eventually able to get to the ropes and to his feet, using his first rope break. West leaned on the ropes as Scott approached and caught him with a kick to the gut. West pulled him in and started to land hard knees to the gut and chest. Scott tried to push off but West ran and delivered a kitchen sink knee to the gut and flipped Scott over his knee. Scott climbed up to his feet as she tried to catch his breath and was taken down with a running bulldog. West pulled Scott up and sent him into a corner. He lifted him up and sat him on the top turnbuckle. West started to follow and looked to maybe suplex Scott off but Scott started to fight back with right hands. West started to headbutt Scott and then decided to just push him off the top and to the mat.
Gemma Foster: Incoming!
West dove off the top and delivered the Exorcism (Diving Headbutt). West crawled onto Scott and covered for a two count. Both men took time to regroup and West eventually was up first. He connected with a clothesline as he grabbed at his arm and Scott staggered. Scott bounced off the ropes and hit Straight Whiskey (Running lariat)! West fell into the corner and Scott charged, hitting Goin' Muddin' (Opponent is seated in the corner, charges and connects with a running knee to the skull)! Scott was fired up and pulled West out of the corner and covered for just two!
Scott Parker: West able to kick out there just before three!
Scott pulled West up and delivered a double underhook powerbomb and went into a cover for another two count. West fought his way to his feet and was hit with a discus forearm to the face. West delivered the Absolution (Rebound/Pendulum Lariat) on the rebound off the ropes! West grabbed at his arm again but pulled Scott up and delivered his The Inquisition (Arm-trap headbutts) and then went right into the Baptism (Cradle Piledriver)! West covered and Scott kicked out just before three to the shock of everyone. West stood in front of the referee and said it was a three count. Scott charged for Straight Whiskey and West moved. Scott stopped himself but still bumped into the referee. The referee quickly started to dust himself off and stand as West reached into his boot and rocked Scott with a brass knuckle Come-To-Jesus Moment (Haymaker Punch). West tossed the evidence and covered to retain his championship.
WINNER AND STILL EW SPARTAN CHAMPIONSHIP: Martin West via pinfall @ 18:03
West collected the Spartan Championship before rolling out of the ring and made his way to the back as Scott laid in the ring out cold.
The fans were treated to the entrance of former Empire Wrestling World Champion FM Young as she made her way to the ring ahead of schedule. She carried a microphone in her hand and slid into the ring.. As she stood in the ring she ginned and brought up the mic.
FM Young: Last time I came out here I talked a lot about my personal life. Something which was regrettably unavoidable. Here, now, today? I want to talk a little bit about my career. “Why?”, you ask.
The big woman paced back and forth like a caged animal.
FM Young: You gotta admit, oh man that last in BWF? The short stint in Empire after losing my title? I had fizzled out *hard.* My career had been on a down streak when I got with Lacy. It’s only recently picked up. I’m not saying that to blame Lacy but to give context to my mental state…I’ll be honest, I *hated it* Lacy was the best part of any of that. I don’t take failure well, Mari’s streak, my kid’s wins…My student’s success, all ate at me.
FM thumped a fist across her chest, over her heart with a deep sigh. She ran a hand through her hair just shaking her head resigned.
FM Young: I started to realize, looking at all these people in my life who were succeeding and praising my help in that…I was trying to give advice from a soul I didn’t recognize…After a fairly extensive getting of my shit together, that’s when things started to pick up. Because I’ve picked myself up. I am no longer terrified of failure because I have things that failure in this business can’t take from me. I always did. I have a career and legacy of amazing moments, I have students and children that represent my contribution to the next generation. Lacy, I want that so badly for you, and I realize I’ve been a real jackass to deny it to you. But you’re not there yet, and so in this match, you’re going to get the me who’s letting her ambition win. I can’t stand being at the bottom of the Empire Wrestling’s rungs, and you’ve placed yourself in my way.
Here, FM stopped to flex, rallying the crowd for a moment by doing her wonder woman pose, before starting on the mic again.
FM Young: You’re going to get the woman who climbed up that BWF Hellbound cell and boxed Johnny Maverick because she wanted to prove she could. You’re going to get the woman who wants to remind people that she bounced a ladder off the mad Emperor’s head in sheer defiance. You want a headline Lacy, you’re going to fight the woman who makes them like you never have before. The Savage She-Hulk of this promotion is something you didn’t get to see in our previous battles.
FM Young: Why? Because even if you win, I picked myself up, I got here. I can get up, my losing might even assuage some of my guilt. I’m not the one terrified of crashing again. I can hope it gives you the closure you need, find some comfort that maybe you’re healing. If I win? It means that I am back. I’m still as unstoppable and determined as I ever was.
FM Young: Now everyone thinking that I haven’t been that ferocious woman in a while is right. Another thing I’ve accepted is that part of my losing streak was that my heart was no longer in it, and part of it was that I was just simply sick of being *ruled* by my ambitions. I was tired of driving myself into the ground, just to feel like I wasn’t getting it. Now? I can look back at those highlights and appreciate the work I’ve done. Winning the King of the Mountain ladder match. Capturing The Empire Championship *twice,* Capturing both the BWF World title and the Empire Heavyweight title at the same time!”
This time FM beats on her chest with her fists and sort of growls at the crowd looking determined.
FM Young: If I never manage anything like that again, nobody can take it from me. But this new me? She’s tired of the sedate life, she wants to once again let passion and ambition run rampant, one more go. Tonight you’re getting the woman who is a goddamn legend in this promotion and all associated promotions. The woman who still cares deeply for you, but also owes you a loss. If you win? We both get to say that you prided it from my broken form, and we both get to live with that. If I win? Nobody can deny me my rightful place! TONIGHT! LACY! LET'S SETTLE THIS!”
With that FM drops the mic on the ground and lets her music play her out.
Alicia Monroe Vs. Kaito Hirano Vs. Harper Mason
The fans were treated to the newest signee of Empire Wrestling as Harper Mason made her way to the stage. She stood at the top of the ramp and looked around and took it all in. She couldn’t help but smile as she made her way to the ring.
Gemma Foster: Meet Harper Mason. “The Slaytanic Avenger” is not only about to have her first match here in Empire Wrestling, but in her professional wrestling career. She has a pretty tough task in front of her tonight, Scott.
Mason stood in the ring as Dishonor’s Kaito Hirano made his way to the ring and didn’t wait for Monroe to make her way down before he attacked Mason! He connected with a cheap right hand and landed strikes as the fans booed. Mason landed a kick to the gut and a forearm to the face. Monroe rushed down to the ring to join the match. Monroe took Hirano down with a basement dropkick to the knee and he rolled out of the ring. Mason caught Monroe with a stiff kick to the thigh and then hit a discus lariat. Monroe stumbled but stayed on her feet and hit the ropes but ran right into a hurricanrana from Mason. Monroe rolled to the outside and was met with Hirano hitting her with a tornado kick! He started to pull Monroe up to her feet and Mason came flying through the ropes with a tope suicida!
Scott Parker: The rookie trying to impress everyone here in the Warehouse tonight!
Mason rolled Monroe into the ring and quickly went into a cover but was only able to get two as Monroe kicked out. Hirano was back in the ring and started to light Mason up with stiff kicks. He ducked under a strike and took Mason down with a blue thunder bomb. Hirano popped up to his feet and hit a scoop slam on Monroe and placed her beside Mason. He took a few steps back and ran back with a shooting star! He covered Mason and she was able to kick out right at two. Hirano jumped over to Monroe and she kicked out at two as well. Hirano looked around and started to pull Mason up and she pushed him away. Monroe grabbed him and delivered Freebird (Running Bulldog). Monroe stood and Mason was there behind her to spin her around and hit Into The Earth (Ripcord Rolling Elbow). She was fired up and turned back to Hirano. Hirano raked the eyes of the rookie to get separation. He started to lift her for the Oyasumi [Goodnight] (Fireman's Carry Overhead Kick) but she was able to counter into a DDT! Monroe grabbed Mason and tossed her out of the ring! Monroe jumped onto Hirano for a cover and got two before Mason was able to just dive onto them in time.
Gemma Foster: Alicia Monroe almost stole that one!
Mason and Monroe went strike for strike until Monroe ducked under one and hit a neckbreaker! Monroe quickly made her way over to the corner and climbed up. She looked for her White Lightning (Moonsault) but Mason rolled out of the way. Hirano hit Monroe with Yoi Yume O [Sweet Dreams] (Running Knee to knelt opponent)! Mason grabbed Hirano and delivered the Crowd Killer (Ripcord Diamond Cutter)! Mason covered and picked up a pinfall win!
WINNER: Harper Mason via pinfall @ 14:11
Mason jumped to her feet and celebrated as she fell into the ropes. She had her hand raised in victory and smiled.
EW TAG TEAM CHAMPIONSHIP
Freaks with Benefits (Kayla Taylor & Krista May Williams) Vs. The Radicalliance (Josh Goldstein & Ronnie North) (c)
The two time EW Tag Team Champions, Freak with Benefits, came out to the ring first to mostly boos from the fans. It didn’t phase the two as they entered the ring however. The champs came out to a big cheer as North and Goldstein posed with the titles at the top of the ramp. They had a big bang of pyro before making their way down and entered the ring.
Scott Parker: Goldstein and North have been a great team since North took over for the Crimson Ghost but Taylor and Williams have had their number over the last few weeks.
The champions handed off their titles as they were shown to the Warehouse and the match announced. We got Taylor and North to start things off for their teams as they circled around each other. North quickly flipped Taylor down with a hip toss and she rolled through and to her feet. He ran the ropes and she came at him with a shoulder block that he ate. They both ran the ropes and this time, North ran right through Taylor. North grabbed her before hitting a suplex. They both got up and North hit a second suplex. North put his hand to his ear before lifting Taylor up for the Careless Whisper (Ronnie picks his opponent up for a delayed vertical suplex and holds them vertically as Josh leads the crowd in mimicking the sax solo from the song ‘Careless Whisper’ for probably longer than is reasonable). North went for a cover and got two before Taylor scurried over to her corner and made a tag. North made a tag to Goldstein and we had a switch. Williams and Goldstein locked up and started to exchange holds and takedowns.
Gemma Foster: Here comes some speed from Goldstein.
Goldstein went into a cover and Williams countered as she rolled up Goldstein. Goldstein popped up at one and had Williams in a small package for one. Williams flipped over Goldstein with a sunset flip into a cover for one as he rolled himself and sat on the chest of Williams for two as she kicked out. Both competitors got to their feet and Williams hit a spinning back kick to the gut. Williams hit a code red on Goldstein and covered for a two before he easily kicked out. Williams tried to make a tag to North but Williams grabbed him. She sent him into her corner and made a tag to Taylor. They whipped him into the ropes and delivered a double flapjack! Taylor pulled Goldstein up but he countered with a jawbreaker. Goldstein ran at the ropes and made a tag before hitting the Brooklyn Quebrada (Springboard Moonsault inverted DDT)! North lifted Taylor up to his shoulders and Goldstein wanted to hit Falling With Style (A Doomsday Crossbody) but Williams ran around the ring and pushed Goldstein off the top and to the floor as he smashed off the barricade! Taylor rolled North forward for a pin and got two as he just kicked out.
Scott Parker: Krista May Williams using her awareness and a little bit of cheap tactics to make a save there and Kayla Taylor was almost able to sneak out of here with a win.
Taylor readied herself and hir North with Stamp It Out (Superkick to opponent on knees[Avada Kedavra-WWE 2k15)! North stayed on his knees, dazed, as Taylor and Williams hit the Series Canceled (BTE Trigger). Taylor rolled North over and went for a cover but Goldstein came flying off the top with an elbow! Goldstein hit a charging Williams with a backdrop and then jumped onto the apron. The fans ate it up when he tagged in and ran the ropes and hit a jumping shoulder tackle on Taylor. Taylor stumbled up and into the corner and Goldstein hit the Chutzpah Boot (Running Yakuza Kick)! Goldstein made a tag and they whipped Taylor into the ropes and Williams made a blind tag before the champions hit The E-RAD-Icator (Flapjack [Ronnie] into a Double Knee Gutbuster [Josh])!
Scott Parker: North is looking for a cover but Williams is the legal competitor!
Williams dumped Goldstein out of the ring and delivered the Last Breath (Swinging Inverted DDT) on North! She covered and North just kicked out at two. She pulled North up and looked to deliver the Stop, Drop & Roll (One-Handed Bulldog, run to the ropes, into a Rolling Thunder). Goldstein slapped the back of North to tag himself in and Williams hit her move. After she stood from the roll, Goldstein came flying off the top with a crossbody! Williams rolled through into a cover and got two before Goldstein kicked out! North stood and caught a charging Williams with the E-RAD-Icator! Goldstein covered as North clotheslined Taylor over the top as she tried to get into the ring and the champions retained!
WINNERS AND STILL EW TAG TEAM CHAMPIONS: The Radicalliance (Josh Goldstein & Ronnie North) via pinfall @ 19:49
The Tag Team Champions rolled out of the ring and hugged on the ramp as they held their titles up high as we cut away.
Let The Hate Flow Through You
We’re in the backstage area as we see Lacy Nelson in the process of getting ready. She’s lacing up her boots and looks up to see Kevin Olsen ready for a few words. She finished her final boot and took a step over to Olsen.
Lacy Nelson: Kevin.
Kevin Olsen: I’d love to get a few words before your match tonight, Lacy.
Lacy Nelson: Go for it. I feel like I laid everything out in the ring a couple weeks ago but have at it.
Kevin Olsen: This is far from the first match where you and FM Young have competed against each other but how does tonight feel differently than, say, something like Warfare in 2020 or Next Level: Turmoil in 2021?
Lacy only needs to take a moment to think before she starts to answer and looks at Kevin.
Lacy Nelson: Despite the numerous times that I’ve fought FM Young, even when I first debuted, there was some sort of respect that I had for her. When I debuted and attacked her it was because I respected her and yet hated the attention she got. I wanted those eyes on me and I went out and rewrote the headlines in Empire Wrestling forever. This time, there’s no respect. After everything she’s done to me she has created a new me. Gone is the blonde hair, gone is a girl that was full of confidence in herself, gone is someone that loved. I am going out there tonight and I will let the hate flow through me. I’m not going out there with winning as a goal. Tonight, I’m going out there to maim. I want FM to hurt like I did. I want her to feel all the pain I did inside. Tonight, FM Young and Lacy Nelson write a new chapter in our storied rivalry here in Empire Wrestling.
She takes a moment and looks into the camera.
Lacy Nelson: Alexa, you brought this on yourself.
Lacy looked at Olsen and shut the door behind her as she walked back into her dressing room.
Daniel Daemon Vs. Unknown Superstar
'Twist of Cain’ by Danzig kicked up and the fans booed the appearance of Daniel Daemon as he came to the ring for the next match.
Scott Parker: I have no idea who might be dumb enough to WANT to sign a contract to face the Emperor.
Gemma Foster: They are a former World Champion according to what we know. They’ll have the upper hand at least by Daemon not knowing who his opponent is.
Daemon pulled himself onto the apron and climbed over the top rope. He moved around the ring slowly as he awaited his foe for the evening. The Warehouse came unglued when "The Right Direction" by The Red Jumpsuit Apparatus as most knew the former BWF and eWo World Champion, Gabe Shelley. Shelley ran out to the stage and was clearly fired up as he threw his hooded vest back and showed his face.
Scott Parker: That’s Gabe Shelley! Gabe wants to take on Daniel Daemon!?
Gemma Foster: I think someone got bored sitting at home!
Shelley entered the ring and walked right up to Daemon and sized him up. He threw his arms out as he turned around and jumped onto the middle ropes. He removed his vest and tossed it away. The bell rang and things were set to get started. The two locked up and Daemon quickly pushed Shelley to the mat with pure strength. Shelley rolled to his feet and smiled and offered his hands. Daemon asked if he was sure and Shelley wanted it. Daemon grabbed his hands and powered him to a knee but Shelley was able to slip under Daemon and break the hold. Shelley locked in a side headlock but was quickly pushed into the ropes. Shelley looked for a shoulder block on the way back but Daemon didn’t budge. Shelley landed kicks to the leg and then a dropkick to the knees to take the big man down to one. Shelley looked for the Jersey Cutter (Twist of Fate) but Daemon pushed him away. Shelley charged but ran right into a chop to the chest. Shelley grabbed his chest and was scoop slammed onto the mat. Daemon pulled Shelley up and tossed him into the corner. Shelley charged and was lifted above the head of Daemon with a press but Shelley was able to counter into the Cannon Ball (Similar to the Codebreaker, but Gabe's knees are in his opponents chest)!
Gemma Foster: Shelley trying to hit all his big moves to take Daemon off his feet.
Shelley pulled Daemon into position and set up for the Junkyard Jam (Pedigree) but Daemon backdropped him over the top rope to the floor! Daemon took a moment to regroup and rolled out of the ring as Shelley started to stand. Daemon lifted Shelley up and dropped him across the barricade. Shelley tried to escape but Daemon pulled him in and delivered a powerbomb from the floor onto the apron!
Scott Parker: Shelley might have just broken his back!
Daemon rolled Shelley in and started to climb into the ring. Daemon went into a cover for just two as Shelley kicked out. Shelley started to fight his way to his feet and dodged a big boot. Shelley grabbed Daemon and used the corner to deliver the Giga Impact (Sliced Bread #2), a move performed by his wife. Shelley went into a cover and just got one as Daemon powered up. Daemon grabbed Shelley and looked for a chokeslam but Shelley countered as he spun away in the air. Shelley looked for the Junkyard Jam again but Daemon was able to counter into an Alabama Slam! Daemon grabbed Shelley by the throat and lifted him off the mat and delivered a big chokeslam. Daemon looked down at Shelley and pulled him up slowly and positioned him as he moved around the ring.
Scott Parker: This is it, Gemma.
Daemon lifted Shelley up and delivered the Twist of Cain II (Vertical Suplex Piledriver) and covered for the pinfall.
WINNER: Daniel Daemon via pinfall @ 16:39
Gemma Foster: Daemon showing again just how dangerous he is.
Daemon stood over Shelley as we cut for a quick break.
EW EXTREME CHAMPIONSHIP
Manic Vs. Harper Blake (c)
The area around the ring was set up with trash cans filled with various items as it was time for the Extreme Championship. Manic’s laugh echoed throughout the Warehouse as the lights went down and she crawled out to the stage.
Gemma Foster: Manic has been unusually quiet in the weeks leading up to this match, Scott.
Manic entered under the bottom ropes and crawled around the ring and just smiled into the camera. Harper Blake hit the stage with the Extreme Championship held high. She placed it on her shoulder and started making her way to the ring. Manic had brought in a few chairs and one of the trash cans was placed in a corner. Blake handed off the title just as Manic charged and unleashed a flurry of blows. Blake jumped onto Manic as the two brawled and rolled around the ring as the fans cheered. Blake jumped up and grabbed one of the chairs and rammed it into the gut of Manic. She set it up and wanted to hit a German suplex onto the chair but Manic was able to break her hold. Manic turned around and hit a jawbreaker. Manic lifted Blake and delivered the Breakneck (Fireman's Carry Neckbreaker) onto the opened chair! Manic covered and Blake was able to kick out. Manic wasted no time as she grabbed a kendo stick from the trashcan in the ring and unleashed shots across the back of Blake.
Scott Parker: Those shots are echoing throughout the Warehouse!
Blake rolled out of the ring and tried to get some space. Manic went chasing after her but Blake rolled back into the ring. She ran the ropes as Manic got back in and Blake met her with a running big boot! Blake hit a Russian leg sweep and looked around the ring. Blake dumped the contents from the trash can out near the corner and placed it over the head and torso of Manic. Blake ran the ropes and delivered the Future Sight (V-Trigger)! The trash can dented in as Manic dropped like a sack of potatoes. Blake went to the top rope and hit the DDS (Diving Double Stomp) onto the trashcanned Manic. Blake took the trashcan off and covered and the fans were shocked when Manic kicked out just in time.
Gemma Foster: No way! Manic just got her shoulder up at the last moment possible.
Blake pulled Manic up and Manic pushed her thumb into the eye of Blake and Blake staggered away. Blake turned back to Manic and was hit with a spinning backfist! Manic pulled Blake in quickly and delivered the Insane in the Membrane (Kneecap Brainbuster). Manic went into a cover and screamed as Blake kicked out at two. Manic pulled at her hair and stood, pacing around the ring. She looked over and grabbed a bag out of the corner and dumped out hundreds of tacks. Manic pulled Blake up and tried to suplex her onto the tacks but Blake was able to block it. Blake countered into a Falcon Arrow onto the tacks and Manic started to laugh. Blake covered and Manic kicked out right away and got to her feet.
Scott Parker: The pain has given Manic another life here.
Manic grabbed Blake and started to headbutt her again and again, over and over. The both were busted open before Manic hit an exploder suplex. Manic set up two chairs facing each other and grabbed Blake. Blake tried to fight back but was still doozy from the headbutts. Manic lifted Blake and hit the Death Inside (Murphy's Law), through the chairs! Manic locked in her PTO submission and Blake started to slip under and passed out as the referee had no choice but to call it.
WINNER AND NEW EW EXTREME CHAMPION: Manic via TKO @ 19:03
Manic screamed and didn’t let go of the hold at first but finally let go. Referees checked on Blake as Manic snatched the Extreme Championship and rolled out of the ring.
Scott Parker: Manic is now the only two time Extreme Champion.
Always Bet on Blue
The camera shifts backstage, where we find Senior Interviewer Kevin Olsen standing by.
Kevin Olsen: Ladies and gentlemen, my next guest is competing in tonight’s main event for the Empire Wrestling World Championship. Please welcome the Scrappy Songbird, Melody Slayton.
Melody Slayton walks into view and the fans cheer.
Kevin Olsen: Melody, you mentioned an excellent point on Twitter the other day. Tonight, you’re stepping into the ring with not only the longest-reigning World Champion in Empire Wrestling history, but also the longest-reigning Champion of any kind in company history.
Melody Slayton: Yep. It’s… gonna be an uphill battle, that’s for sure.
Kevin Olsen: I mean, forgive my forwardness here, but it’s difficult for me to imagine you having any real chance of winning here tonight.
Melody Slayton: Wow, thanks for the vote of confidence, Kev.
Kevin Olsen: Sorry, I’m not trying to offend you or anything. I simply mean that, on paper, you’re possibly the biggest underdog in the history of Empire Wrestling. Cross’ Primetime Championship run began over a full year before you even had your first official match. Santos began her current World Title run just two months after your pro debut over in Zion Wrestling.
Melody shifts uneasily as Kevin continues.
Kevin Olsen: So, I think ultimately, my question is this; why do you think you’re the one who can unseat the dominant Tia Santos? Why do you think you’re the one who can play spoiler to the seemingly inevitable ascension of Marilyn Lee Cross to the top of the Empire Wrestling mountain?
Slayton closes her eyes for a few brief moments, contemplating Kevin’s questions with as much seriousness as she can muster.
Melody Slayton: A year ago, at Next Level: Revolution, I defeated a ring full of competitors to claim the vacant Spartan Championship. I was a rookie then, and I still upset former Champions and walked out with my first singles Championship. Everyone discounted me then, and look what happened.
A beat.
Melody Slayton: Tonight, I'm stepping into the ring with probably the two greatest competitors Empire Wrestling has ever seen. It's easy to discount me as the odd woman out. Like you said, on paper, I don't have the experience. I don't have the pedigree. I haven't proven myself to be the main event level competitor that Marilyn Lee Cross and Tia Santos have. But what people seem to forget is, in this business, the only match that matters is the next one.
She smirks.
Melody Slayton: Santos and Cross are incredible competitors. I would never take that away from them, or try to pretend like they're not everything they say they are. To do so would be not only a disservice to them, but to Empire Wrestling as a whole. But tonight's show isn’t called Pedigree… it’s called Next Level: REBIRTH.
A pause.
Melody Slayton: There is no Rebirth without change, and there is no change if Tia Santos retains the Empire Wrestling World Championship. Likewise, as much as she believes she deserves the championship, there's nothing fresh and new about Marilyn Lee Cross carrying yet another singles title in Empire Wrestling. As far as I'm concerned, there's only one actual chance of ANY sort of Rebirth happening tonight, and that's for new blood to take their place at the top of this company.
She leans in slightly.
Melody Slayton: I am the Rebirth that this company needs.
Melody grins.
Melody Slayton: Santos and Cross have had their day. They've had moment after moment after moment in Empire Wrestling. This company, these fans? They're all ready for something new, and you're looking at her.
Slayton paces a bit as she continues, her usually bubbly exterior hardening somewhat.
Melody Slayton: Tonight, I'm going to shock my opponents. I'm going to shock the world. Heck, I might even shock myself a little bit, as a treat.
Melody giggles softly.
Melody Slayton: Kevin, there's only one way tonight ends - the underdog wins it all. I didn't come here tonight to be a notch on Tia Santos' bedpost. I didn't show up to be the final trial or the last stepping stone for Marilyn Lee Cross. I'm here tonight at Rebirth to win my first World Championship. I don't care how it looks on paper; as far as I'm concerned, the only person who has a single solitary chance of winning tonight is ME. Because my name is Melody Slayton… and you always bet on blue.
She puts a hand on Kevin’s shoulder and smiles softly.
Melody Slayton: Now, if you'll excuse me, I'm going to go win the one World Title that eluded my father. He said not to do this for him, but… this title retired him. The least I can do is put a Slayton's name on it.
Melody winks to Kevin before exiting the scene. Kevin, seemingly at a loss for words, merely motions to the camera to head back to ringside as tonight’s action continues.
NO HOLDS BARRED
Lacy Nelson Vs. FM Young
The fans popped as "Helix" by Amaranthe began to play and out walked FM Young. She came out in a boxing robe with her hood up. She went to both knees at the top of the ramp as she looked down. She jumped up and looked up to the fans and smirked.
Scott Parker: Big fight feels here, Gemma. This isn’t going to be a pretty wrestling match but instead a FIGHT.
Young rolled into the ring and removed her robe and tossed it away as she stretched against the ropes. Once “Come and Get It” played, the crowd turned and Lacy Nelson walked out. There were a few scattered cheers for Nelson as she looked down to the ring. She ran down the ramp and slid under the ropes. She popped up to her feet and we were off as the two exchanged lefts and rights.
Gemma Foster: Lacy doesn’t want to waste any time getting her hands on FM and FM is happy to fight!
Scott Parker: Yeah but you don’t want to get into a striking match with FM!
Nelson was able to land a few hard blows and a big chop to the chest. Young drove her knee into the gut of Nelson and made her eat forearms to the face. Young came back with a big forearm of her own but Young landed two quick ones in succession. Young flipped Nelson with a judo toss and Nelson tried to quickly stand but was taken down with a Russian leg sweep. Young went for a cover and got a one before Nelson powered away. She got to her feet and finally took a deep breath as she circled around Young. They went to lock up and Nelson speared Young through the ropes to the floor as they bounced off the apron. The fight went around the ring as they exchanged blows. Nelson whipped Young into the steps as she tumbled into them, back first. Nelson started to look under the ring and quickly pulled out a table to a cheer. She set it up on the outside of the ring and quickly pulled out a second and placed it beside it.
Gemma Foster: I can’t even imagine what Lacy is planning in her head right now.
Nelson was back to Young and Young hit a big uppercut to the jaw. Nelson landed a kick to the gut but Young quickly responded with a big spear on the outside! Young pulled Nelson up and the two tried to get the other into the ring but Young smacked Nelson’s face off the post on the outside. Nelson grabbed at her face and Young looked for another spear but ran into a lifting kick. Nelson readied Young and delivered a double underhook powerbomb onto the barricade! Young fell into the crowd as Nelson wiped some sweat from her face with a towel from ringside. Nelson reached into her boot and pulled out a silver chain before reaching over the barricade. She wrapped it around the throat of Young and started to choke her as she pulled back and eventually pulled her over the barricade with it.
Scott Parker: Lacy just viciously choking FM with some sort of chain.
Nelson wrapped the chain around Young’s throat again and pulled at the back so tight she was able to walk her like a leash and got her over to the tables. Nelson pulled Young up and started to set up for a powerbomb but Young backdropped Nelson onto the floor! Young started to pull up the padding on the floor to expose the concrete below as the fans gasped. Nelson was up and was hit with a hard kick to the gut. Young started to set up for a piledriver but Nelson was able to get away and avoid it. She walked around the ring and Young went the opposite way. Young ran around the ring and came around the corner looking for a spear but Nelson jumped over her. Young turned and was rocked with a superkick! Nelson pulled Young over to the tables again and placed her onto one of them and started to climb back to the apron. Young was able to get up and get after Nelson. Nelson was on the top rope and Young was there as they fought. Nelson smashed the head of Young onto the top post. She pulled Young to the very top of the turnbuckles and placed her in position.
Scott Parker: Whatever you're thinking about Lacy, it’s not worth it!
Nelson flipped off the top and delivered the Byline (Canadian Destroyer) to the floor below, through the tables! “Holy shit” chants rang throughout the Warehouse.
Gemma Foster: If anything, those tables just saved FM’s life.
Nelson eventually started to stir and pulled Young up and rolled her into the ring. Nelson pulled herself inside and covered and FM Young kicked out at two. Nelson was in shock as the fans cheered Young on. Nelson pulled Young to her knees and leaned into the ropes. She begged her to stand up as she wanted a big superkick. Nelson closed her eyes and hit a superkick! Nelson roared as she screamed at Young and circled around her. Young got to her feet and ate the Headline (Eat Defeat)! Nelson went into a cover and Young just kicked out in time at two.
Gemma Foster: Lacy is punishing FM but she keeps finding ways to kick out.
Nelson looked around and rolled out of the ring and had a knife. She started to cut the ropes holding the padding down on the mat and exposed the wood. She pulled all the protection off from one corner and dumped the knife. She pulled Young onto the wood and started to set up for another Byline.
Scott Parker: That’s enough!
Nelson was flipped back as Young countered the Byline. Nelson stood and Young hit a big desperation spear and both women were down. Nelson and Young were both up and Nelson looked for a strike but missed, allowing Young to deliver Heart of a Phoenix (Lumbar Check)! Young covered Nelson and she kicked out at two! Nelson shook her head as Young told her to just stay down. They sat on their knees and exchanged lefts and rights. Young hit a big headbutt and pulled Nelson to her feet. Young roared and flipped Nelson inside out with the Man-Machine Interface (Discus Clothesline)! Nelson popped up and screamed in the face of Young to hit her again. Young told Nelson to just stay down and landed a hard punch that staggered her backwards. Nelson looked for a superkick but missed as Young dodged it and then leveled Nelson once again with Man-Machine Interface. Nelson tried to stand but stumbled into the dangerous corner. She tried to look for a superkick but it was countered into the Human Error Processor (Pop-up Powerbomb), right onto the exposed wood! Young fell onto Nelson and picked up the pinfall win.
WINNER: FM Young via pinfall @ 23:41
Young had her hand raised before falling to her knees beside Nelson. She leaned down as her hair covered Lacy’s face but what was said couldn’t be picked up. Young was helped to her feet by the referee as Nelson was checked on by trainers.
Gemma Foster: What do you say after a match like that, Scott? It was a classic and is another chapter in the book of FM and Lacy but at what cost?
Scott Parker: While the team gets the ring back together lets go backstage one more time.
Who is Next Level?
For the final time tonight we’re standing by with Kevin Olsen as he’s next to Operating Manager, Tom Carr. The two are side by side ready for an interview.
Kevin Olsen: Ladies and gentlemen, I’m standing here with EW’s Operating Manager, Tom Carr. Mr. Carr, you asked for a few moments here tonight.
Tom Carr: I did, Kevin. Thank you. I thought we could take a few moments to talk about what’s next. Tonight’s Rebirth event has been amazing so far and I know our main event is going to a phenomenal ending to the night. With that said it’s always important to look to what is next and, to me, the answer to that is simple. We’ll need to crown a new Primetime Champion and we have such an amazing roster of talent that deserves a chance at becoming the next Primetime Champion. The Primetime Championship has been held by Empire Wrestling royalty and whoever the next champion is will have large shoes to fill. Tonight we saw two triple threat matches that I promised would have ramifications for the quest to crown a new Primetime Champion. Those two winners will be given a chance to compete for that championship.
There’s a cheer from the fans as Carr keeps speaking.
Tom Carr: There will be a couple more people added to that match however. When I think of great Primetime Championship matches I think of two things: Next Level: Ascension and ladders.
A loud pop.
Tom Carr: Next Level: Revolution is traditionally a fall event but we’re in a new age, we’re in a rebirth. That event is being moved to be the biggest event of the summer. June 24th, Next Level: Revolution. Hanako, Harper Mason, and others will compete for the vacant Primetime Championship.
Kevin Olsen: There you have it, folks. Let’s go down to ringside for the main event.
EW WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP
Melody Slayton Vs. Marilyn Lee Cross Vs. Tia Santos (c)
The fans were buzzing as we had come to the main event of the evening. Melody Slayton was the first competitor to make her way to the stage and seemed as focused as ever but bounced around the ring once she entered. She jumped into a corner and waved out to the fans as she waited.
Gemma Foster: The young Slayton is facing her biggest challenge in her career here tonight. While she’s looked great here in Empire Wrestling, she has to topple two of the most winningest competitors tonight.
Scott Parker: Say her name!
The fans popped once again as Marilyn Lee Cross stepped out onto the stage next. The former Primetime Champion looked down to Slayton and started to make her journey to the ring after posing.
Scott Parker: Marilyn Lee Cross just spent almost 900 days as a champion here in Empire Wrestling and she’s looking to capture the EW World Championship tonight. My money is on Cross tonight.
Cross stood near the ropes, facing the crowd, as she put her arms out and motioned for the title. She looked back at Slayton as the two both turned their attention to the top of the ramp as the lights dimmed and smoke rose. The Empire Wrestling World Champion, Tia Santos, stepped through the crowd to a mixed reaction as many that didn’t like her had to respect her.
Gemma Foster: 371 days ago, Tia Santos defeated Casey Grey at Next Level: Revolution. Tonight, she comes into the ring with only 1 loss in her entire EW career. You have to think that house money is on Tia to retain tonight.
Santos slowly made her way to the ring and walked all the way around the ring. She climbed up the steps and perched on the turnbuckle as she looked at her two competitors. She raised her hands as the lights came up and she jumped off the top and landed on her feet. She removed the title and held it. The match was announced and everyone was introduced. Santos held the title up as she was announced and then handed it to the official. The bell rang and the fans cheered as the match was set. The three competitors looked around at each other and all awaited the other to make the first move. It wasn’t until Slayton started to move that she was rocked with a forearm from Santos. Slayton then turned and hit Cross with a right hand. Cross reared back and hit a chop to the chest of Santos. Santos turned to Cross and landed a chop in return. Cross turned to Slayton and hit a big right hand. Slayton turned to Santos and connected with a hard forearm to the face.
Gemma Foster: Look at these three exchanging blows!
Slayton took a hard chop from Santos and then was taken down with an arm drag. Cross hit the ropes and a running crossbody on Santos and took her to the mat. Cross covered for just one as Santos kicked out right at one. Santos got to her feet right away and moved out of the way as Slayton hit a big uppercut on Cross and then flipped her to the mat with a suplex. Slayton got to her feet and Santos hit a series of hard chops and then a big right hand. Santos hit the ropes and took Slayton down with a headscissors take down and Slayton rolled out of the ring. Santos and Cross were left standing in the ring and the two started to go blow for blow in the middle of the ring. Cross whipped Santos into the ropes and swung while Santos ducked it and kept running. Cross dropped down and missed Santos looking for a clothesline. The two both hit cartwheels and hit a double clothesline to take each other down!
Scott Parker: Santos and Cross reading each other and ended up thinking the same thing.
Slayton was on the apron as both Cross and Santos started to get up and Slayton jumped over the top and hit a double Flight Risk (Slingshot DDT) as she took them both down! Slayton pulled Cross to her feet and delivered a Russian leg sweep and rolled to her feet. Slayton looked for the superkick part of Full Effect 2.0 on Santos but Santos caught her foot. Santos sent Slayton into the ropes and met her with a Spanish Fly! Santos went for a cover but Cross was there quickly to pull her off. Cross grabbed Santos and dumped her over the top rope to the floor. Cross measured up Slayton and delivered the Knee Harvey Oswald (Running Knee to the side of an opponent's head)! Cross quickly pulled Slayton up and hit the Mary Go Round (Discus Big Boot). Cross went for a cover on Slayton and was pulled out of the ring at two by Santos!
Scott Parker: Tia Santos possibly just saved her championship!
Santos grabbed Cross by the hair and sent her up and over the announce table and turned her attention to the ring. Santos entered the ring and Slayton was starting to get to her feet. Santos started to set up for Beso de Muerte ([Kiss of Death] Dream DDT) but Slayton countered into a small package for two! Both competitors were on their feet and Slayton delivered This Magic Moment (V Trigger)! Slayton followed it up with Full Effect 2.0 (Superkick*, followed by a Shining Wizard). She covered and Cross came flying off the top with an elbow drop to the back to break it up.
Gemma Foster: This match might have just ended had Cross not been there to break it up!
The competitors were down as the fans cheered them on. They all started to stand and exchange blows once again as the fans cheered. Cross lifted Slayton up and drove her to the mat with Do A Barrel Roll (Cartwheel Death Valley Driver)! Cross stood and Santos delivered a big Chick Kick that crumbled her. Santos went into a bridging pin and Cross powered up at two and looked for the Do a Barrel Roll but Santos slipped to her feet and hit the Beso de Muerte! Santos went into a cover and Cross kicked out at two! The crowd roared as Santos looked around in shock. She started to pull Cross back up and turned as Slayton came off the middle turnbuckle and delivered the Glitter Bomb (Panama Sunrise)! Slayton dove onto Santos and shocked the world with a three count!
WINNER AND NEW EW WORLD CHAMPION: Melody Slayton via pinfall @ 28:11
Slayton popped up in shock and ran into the ropes as she shook in pure joy.
Scott Parker: Melody Slayton is the new Empire Wrestling World Champion! I don’t believe it!
Slayton’s name was announced as she was handed the championship. She clutched it close to her chest as Santos rolled out of the ring and couldn’t believe what just happened. Cross sat against the barricade and just shook her head before starting to make her way to the back. Streamers started to fill the ring in as Slayton dropped to her knees.
Yea, yea, yea
Ooh
I can feel it move me
Feel it shove me
As I break the law
Said yea
Scott Parker: No.
Slayton turned her head to the top of the ramp as Daniel Daemon walked out with the Victorem Briefcase in hand. He moved to the ring and handed it off and Slayton just shook her head. The bell rang as Daemon used his Victorem contract.
EW WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP
Daniel DaemonVs. Melody Slayton (c)
Gemma Foster: No! This is the kid’s moment!
Slayton ran and caught Daemon with This Magic Moment (V Trigger)! She took the fight right to Daemon and hit a second one! Daemon grabbed Slayton and looked for a chokeslam but she kicked him in the gut and got free. She delivered a superkick that staggered the big man and then a second. She completed the Full Effect 2.0 (Superkick*, followed by a Shining Wizard) and went for a cover but Daemon kicked out at one and pushed his way to his feet. She charged and was pushed to the mat. She ran again and Daemon delivered a big chokeslam! Daemon grabbed her by the arm and neck as he deadlifted her into the Twist of Cain II (Vertical Suplex Piledriver) and covered as the fans booed, getting the three count.
WINNER AND NEW EW WORLD CHAMPION: Daniel Daemon via pinfall @ 4:09
Scott Parker: I don’t even know what to say.
The crowd started to throw trash into the ring as Daemon was announced the winner and held the title above his head.
Gemma Foster: Daniel Daemon is now a two time EW World Champion.
Scott Parker: All hail.
Daemon stood over Slayton as we ended the show.
Gemma Foster: It’s a match that can easily change the course of EW forever!
Scott Parker: We have the Spartan Championship, the Extreme Championship, and a Tag Team Championship match tonight as well. As well as two matches that, according to Tom Carr, will have future implications for the vacant Primetime Championship.
Gemma Foster: And a match I’m looking forward to, Scott. It’s Lacy Nelson and FM Young. It’s been one of the most personal rivalries in Empire Wrestling history and it all started over 4 years ago. Lacy Nelson debuted with an attack on FM Young and Chelsea Pryce. Then, April 17, 2019 at Next Level: Revolution we saw the first match between FM and Lacy. From there they’ve competed against each other, been a pair, and now Lacy is ready to settle scores.
Scott Parker: It should be an incredible match and an amazing event tonight.
Hanako Vs. Casey Grey Vs. Jessica Carter
Gemma Foster: Let’s get the show started!
It was time for our opening match as Hanako came to the ring to a nice pop as she rolled into the ring. Casey Grey was out next and she quickly made her way to the ring as she tossed her hat into the crowd.
Scott Parker: Casey Grey looking for a win here tonight to turn things around. She has been in a slump but Casey has always been able to bounce back.
Carter came out last as she waved to the fans in the Warehouse. She climbed into the ring and the match was set to get underway. Hanako had to quickly duck a clothesline from Grey and Carter caught her with a dropkick. Hanako and Carter locked up and Carter wrenched the arm of Hanako. Hanako flipped over and took Carter down with a monkey flip. Hanako popped up and Grey grabbed her from behind and hit a German suplex. Grey pulled Hanako up and sent her into the ropes. Hanako looked for a crossbody but Grey caught her in mid-air. Carter came flying off the top rope and dropkicked Hanako and Hanako crashed on Grey. Carter got to her feet and was fired up as Hanako climbed back to her feet. The two locked up and Hanako sent her into the corner. Hanako charged and missed a corner splash on Carter. Grey grabbed Carter and hit a backstabber!
Scott Parker: It’s been non-stop action all around the ring to kick things off here, Gemma.
Hanako jumped off the second turnbuckle and hit Grey with a headscissors takedown. Hanako started to get up but was rocked by a shining wizard from Carter! Carter went into a cover for just one before Hanako kicked out. Carter started to pull Hanako up and then dumped her to the outside. Carter grabbed Grey and started to set up for the Bonne Nuit (Headlock driver) but Grey countered and was able to hit a belly to back suplex. Both competitors got to their feet and Grey delivered her GTO (Fisherman Driver). Grey covered and got a two before Hanako was there to break it up. Hanako pulled Grey up and sent her into the corner. Carter got to her feet and looked for a clothesline on Hanako but Hanako ducked it and then caught her with an overhead kick. Carter stumbled into the same corner as Grey and Hanako hit a big corner splash on them both. Hanako pulled Carter to the center of the ring and connected with the Fūkiri (Reverse Ddt into facebuster). Hanako went for a cover but Grey pulled her off at two.
Gemma Foster: Casey Grey able to save it there.
Grey kicked Hanako in the face as she tried to pull her to her feet. Grey was up and Carter hit her with the Bonne Nuit! Carter turned to Hanako and was taken down with a float over DDT. Hanako looked around and hit her Geitō (Starship pain) on Grey and picked up a pinfall victory!
WINNER: Hanako via pinfall @ 15:33
Hanako celebrated in the ring after her victory as she shook the hand of Carter. Grey rolled out of the ring and shook her head as we cut away.
Family Matters
The camera heads backstage to the locker room, where we find Melody Slayton preparing for easily the biggest match of her young career. There is a knock on the door, interrupting her stretching.
Melody Slayton: Come in!
The door opens up and the crowd cheers as former Empire Wrestling competitor David Slayton walks into view, flanked by his wife, Jen and her sister, current BWF World Champion Emily Corlen.
Melody Slayton: Dad! Mom! Auntie Em! You’re all here!
Melody runs over and hugs her dad, who chuckles.
David Slayton: Of course we are, kiddo. You didn’t think we’d miss your first pay-per-view main event, did you? I mean, my baby girl is literally moments away from winning her first World Title. There’s no WAY we’d be anywhere else tonight.
Melody Slayton: I mean, I’m hopeful that I’ll win, but... I have some real stiff competition. Things might not go the way I want them to tonight.
Jen shakes her head.
Jen Slayton: No, no. None of that, dear. You earned your place in this match as much as anyone else did. You defeated two dominant former World Champions in order to make it to this match. You’ve more than proven yourself worthy already, regardless of what your opponents might think.
Emily Corlen: Yeah, and take it from someone who literally lost to Effy over in Limitless a few weeks ago… she’s a tough nut to crack. Just beating her is an accomplishment. Beating her, Hanako AND Casey Grey? You’re absolutely ready for this, Melly Belly.
Melody immediately blushes a shade of crimson as she quiet-loud whispers “OHMIGOD DON’T CALL ME THAT ON NATIONAL TELEVISION”. Emily laughs loudly as Dave puts his hands on his daughter’s shoulders.
David Slayton: Hey. No matter what happens out there tonight, you know we’re all proud of you. But don’t for one moment go out there and second-guess yourself. You absolutely deserve this spotlight, this moment. So, I need you to promise me something.
Melody nods.
David Slayton: Don’t go out there tonight thinking you have to win the title for me. We both know my history with this company, and what happened when I tried to become Empire Wrestling World Champion. That’s ancient history, Mel. Don’t go out there for your mom, or your aunt, or literally anybody but yourself. Tonight is YOUR moment. As long as you go out there and give it your all - for YOURSELF - win or lose, you’ll have no regrets. Can you do that for dear ol’ Dad?
She grins.
Melody Slayton: Yes, sir. Now, when I DO win the title, how long is too long to celebrate?
Everyone in the room laughs and Dave gives Melody a small affectionate noogie.
David Slayton: Oh, this kid. I like the way you think. And you know what? Celebrate as long as you want. When you win tonight - you’ll have earned every single second of it.
Dave winks before he and Melody share another hug. This time, Jen and Emily join in.
Jen Slayton: Alright, we’re heading out to our seats. We’ll be near ringside. Good luck tonight, baby.
Emily Corlen: Go kill it out there, kid.
David Slayton: Show Tia Santos, Marilyn Lee Cross, and everybody out there watching exactly what it means to be a Slayton.
Melody nods and grins excitedly as the rest of her family exits the locker room. She turns to her belongings, picks up a small necklace and rests it against her forehead for a moment.
Melody Slayton: I can do this.
A beat.
Melody Slayton: I WILL do this.
She places the necklace back in her bag, takes a deep breath, and turns her attention back to stretching as the camera fades back to ringside.
SPARTAN CHAMPIONSHIP
Austin Scott Vs. “Reverend” Martin West (c)
Gemma Foster: We’re about to see a hard hitting match here, Scott.
Austin Scott’s music hit as he came out to the stage and threw his arm in the air. He pointed out to the fans and paced on the stage before making his way down to the ring. The crowd began to boo as the champion, Martin West, came out to the stage. He stood at the top of the ramp with the Spartan Championship around his waist. He slowly walked to the ring and placed the title on the apron before pulling himself up and into the ring. The referee showed off the title and things were set. The two locked up and Scott was full of fury and landed hard blows to the head. West was sent into the ropes and came back with a shoulder tackle. Scott popped back up and West looked for a discus clothesline but Scott hit a pump kick to the arm. Scott quickly grabbed the arm and hit an armbreaker on West. Scott then stomped on the arm of West and locked in an arm lock.
Scott Parker: Austin Scott with a smart strategy here as he’s going to target that right arm of Martin West so he can’t land that big blow.
West is eventually able to get to the ropes and to his feet, using his first rope break. West leaned on the ropes as Scott approached and caught him with a kick to the gut. West pulled him in and started to land hard knees to the gut and chest. Scott tried to push off but West ran and delivered a kitchen sink knee to the gut and flipped Scott over his knee. Scott climbed up to his feet as she tried to catch his breath and was taken down with a running bulldog. West pulled Scott up and sent him into a corner. He lifted him up and sat him on the top turnbuckle. West started to follow and looked to maybe suplex Scott off but Scott started to fight back with right hands. West started to headbutt Scott and then decided to just push him off the top and to the mat.
Gemma Foster: Incoming!
West dove off the top and delivered the Exorcism (Diving Headbutt). West crawled onto Scott and covered for a two count. Both men took time to regroup and West eventually was up first. He connected with a clothesline as he grabbed at his arm and Scott staggered. Scott bounced off the ropes and hit Straight Whiskey (Running lariat)! West fell into the corner and Scott charged, hitting Goin' Muddin' (Opponent is seated in the corner, charges and connects with a running knee to the skull)! Scott was fired up and pulled West out of the corner and covered for just two!
Scott Parker: West able to kick out there just before three!
Scott pulled West up and delivered a double underhook powerbomb and went into a cover for another two count. West fought his way to his feet and was hit with a discus forearm to the face. West delivered the Absolution (Rebound/Pendulum Lariat) on the rebound off the ropes! West grabbed at his arm again but pulled Scott up and delivered his The Inquisition (Arm-trap headbutts) and then went right into the Baptism (Cradle Piledriver)! West covered and Scott kicked out just before three to the shock of everyone. West stood in front of the referee and said it was a three count. Scott charged for Straight Whiskey and West moved. Scott stopped himself but still bumped into the referee. The referee quickly started to dust himself off and stand as West reached into his boot and rocked Scott with a brass knuckle Come-To-Jesus Moment (Haymaker Punch). West tossed the evidence and covered to retain his championship.
WINNER AND STILL EW SPARTAN CHAMPIONSHIP: Martin West via pinfall @ 18:03
West collected the Spartan Championship before rolling out of the ring and made his way to the back as Scott laid in the ring out cold.
The fans were treated to the entrance of former Empire Wrestling World Champion FM Young as she made her way to the ring ahead of schedule. She carried a microphone in her hand and slid into the ring.. As she stood in the ring she ginned and brought up the mic.
FM Young: Last time I came out here I talked a lot about my personal life. Something which was regrettably unavoidable. Here, now, today? I want to talk a little bit about my career. “Why?”, you ask.
The big woman paced back and forth like a caged animal.
FM Young: You gotta admit, oh man that last in BWF? The short stint in Empire after losing my title? I had fizzled out *hard.* My career had been on a down streak when I got with Lacy. It’s only recently picked up. I’m not saying that to blame Lacy but to give context to my mental state…I’ll be honest, I *hated it* Lacy was the best part of any of that. I don’t take failure well, Mari’s streak, my kid’s wins…My student’s success, all ate at me.
FM thumped a fist across her chest, over her heart with a deep sigh. She ran a hand through her hair just shaking her head resigned.
FM Young: I started to realize, looking at all these people in my life who were succeeding and praising my help in that…I was trying to give advice from a soul I didn’t recognize…After a fairly extensive getting of my shit together, that’s when things started to pick up. Because I’ve picked myself up. I am no longer terrified of failure because I have things that failure in this business can’t take from me. I always did. I have a career and legacy of amazing moments, I have students and children that represent my contribution to the next generation. Lacy, I want that so badly for you, and I realize I’ve been a real jackass to deny it to you. But you’re not there yet, and so in this match, you’re going to get the me who’s letting her ambition win. I can’t stand being at the bottom of the Empire Wrestling’s rungs, and you’ve placed yourself in my way.
Here, FM stopped to flex, rallying the crowd for a moment by doing her wonder woman pose, before starting on the mic again.
FM Young: You’re going to get the woman who climbed up that BWF Hellbound cell and boxed Johnny Maverick because she wanted to prove she could. You’re going to get the woman who wants to remind people that she bounced a ladder off the mad Emperor’s head in sheer defiance. You want a headline Lacy, you’re going to fight the woman who makes them like you never have before. The Savage She-Hulk of this promotion is something you didn’t get to see in our previous battles.
FM Young: Why? Because even if you win, I picked myself up, I got here. I can get up, my losing might even assuage some of my guilt. I’m not the one terrified of crashing again. I can hope it gives you the closure you need, find some comfort that maybe you’re healing. If I win? It means that I am back. I’m still as unstoppable and determined as I ever was.
FM Young: Now everyone thinking that I haven’t been that ferocious woman in a while is right. Another thing I’ve accepted is that part of my losing streak was that my heart was no longer in it, and part of it was that I was just simply sick of being *ruled* by my ambitions. I was tired of driving myself into the ground, just to feel like I wasn’t getting it. Now? I can look back at those highlights and appreciate the work I’ve done. Winning the King of the Mountain ladder match. Capturing The Empire Championship *twice,* Capturing both the BWF World title and the Empire Heavyweight title at the same time!”
This time FM beats on her chest with her fists and sort of growls at the crowd looking determined.
FM Young: If I never manage anything like that again, nobody can take it from me. But this new me? She’s tired of the sedate life, she wants to once again let passion and ambition run rampant, one more go. Tonight you’re getting the woman who is a goddamn legend in this promotion and all associated promotions. The woman who still cares deeply for you, but also owes you a loss. If you win? We both get to say that you prided it from my broken form, and we both get to live with that. If I win? Nobody can deny me my rightful place! TONIGHT! LACY! LET'S SETTLE THIS!”
With that FM drops the mic on the ground and lets her music play her out.
Alicia Monroe Vs. Kaito Hirano Vs. Harper Mason
The fans were treated to the newest signee of Empire Wrestling as Harper Mason made her way to the stage. She stood at the top of the ramp and looked around and took it all in. She couldn’t help but smile as she made her way to the ring.
Gemma Foster: Meet Harper Mason. “The Slaytanic Avenger” is not only about to have her first match here in Empire Wrestling, but in her professional wrestling career. She has a pretty tough task in front of her tonight, Scott.
Mason stood in the ring as Dishonor’s Kaito Hirano made his way to the ring and didn’t wait for Monroe to make her way down before he attacked Mason! He connected with a cheap right hand and landed strikes as the fans booed. Mason landed a kick to the gut and a forearm to the face. Monroe rushed down to the ring to join the match. Monroe took Hirano down with a basement dropkick to the knee and he rolled out of the ring. Mason caught Monroe with a stiff kick to the thigh and then hit a discus lariat. Monroe stumbled but stayed on her feet and hit the ropes but ran right into a hurricanrana from Mason. Monroe rolled to the outside and was met with Hirano hitting her with a tornado kick! He started to pull Monroe up to her feet and Mason came flying through the ropes with a tope suicida!
Scott Parker: The rookie trying to impress everyone here in the Warehouse tonight!
Mason rolled Monroe into the ring and quickly went into a cover but was only able to get two as Monroe kicked out. Hirano was back in the ring and started to light Mason up with stiff kicks. He ducked under a strike and took Mason down with a blue thunder bomb. Hirano popped up to his feet and hit a scoop slam on Monroe and placed her beside Mason. He took a few steps back and ran back with a shooting star! He covered Mason and she was able to kick out right at two. Hirano jumped over to Monroe and she kicked out at two as well. Hirano looked around and started to pull Mason up and she pushed him away. Monroe grabbed him and delivered Freebird (Running Bulldog). Monroe stood and Mason was there behind her to spin her around and hit Into The Earth (Ripcord Rolling Elbow). She was fired up and turned back to Hirano. Hirano raked the eyes of the rookie to get separation. He started to lift her for the Oyasumi [Goodnight] (Fireman's Carry Overhead Kick) but she was able to counter into a DDT! Monroe grabbed Mason and tossed her out of the ring! Monroe jumped onto Hirano for a cover and got two before Mason was able to just dive onto them in time.
Gemma Foster: Alicia Monroe almost stole that one!
Mason and Monroe went strike for strike until Monroe ducked under one and hit a neckbreaker! Monroe quickly made her way over to the corner and climbed up. She looked for her White Lightning (Moonsault) but Mason rolled out of the way. Hirano hit Monroe with Yoi Yume O [Sweet Dreams] (Running Knee to knelt opponent)! Mason grabbed Hirano and delivered the Crowd Killer (Ripcord Diamond Cutter)! Mason covered and picked up a pinfall win!
WINNER: Harper Mason via pinfall @ 14:11
Mason jumped to her feet and celebrated as she fell into the ropes. She had her hand raised in victory and smiled.
EW TAG TEAM CHAMPIONSHIP
Freaks with Benefits (Kayla Taylor & Krista May Williams) Vs. The Radicalliance (Josh Goldstein & Ronnie North) (c)
The two time EW Tag Team Champions, Freak with Benefits, came out to the ring first to mostly boos from the fans. It didn’t phase the two as they entered the ring however. The champs came out to a big cheer as North and Goldstein posed with the titles at the top of the ramp. They had a big bang of pyro before making their way down and entered the ring.
Scott Parker: Goldstein and North have been a great team since North took over for the Crimson Ghost but Taylor and Williams have had their number over the last few weeks.
The champions handed off their titles as they were shown to the Warehouse and the match announced. We got Taylor and North to start things off for their teams as they circled around each other. North quickly flipped Taylor down with a hip toss and she rolled through and to her feet. He ran the ropes and she came at him with a shoulder block that he ate. They both ran the ropes and this time, North ran right through Taylor. North grabbed her before hitting a suplex. They both got up and North hit a second suplex. North put his hand to his ear before lifting Taylor up for the Careless Whisper (Ronnie picks his opponent up for a delayed vertical suplex and holds them vertically as Josh leads the crowd in mimicking the sax solo from the song ‘Careless Whisper’ for probably longer than is reasonable). North went for a cover and got two before Taylor scurried over to her corner and made a tag. North made a tag to Goldstein and we had a switch. Williams and Goldstein locked up and started to exchange holds and takedowns.
Gemma Foster: Here comes some speed from Goldstein.
Goldstein went into a cover and Williams countered as she rolled up Goldstein. Goldstein popped up at one and had Williams in a small package for one. Williams flipped over Goldstein with a sunset flip into a cover for one as he rolled himself and sat on the chest of Williams for two as she kicked out. Both competitors got to their feet and Williams hit a spinning back kick to the gut. Williams hit a code red on Goldstein and covered for a two before he easily kicked out. Williams tried to make a tag to North but Williams grabbed him. She sent him into her corner and made a tag to Taylor. They whipped him into the ropes and delivered a double flapjack! Taylor pulled Goldstein up but he countered with a jawbreaker. Goldstein ran at the ropes and made a tag before hitting the Brooklyn Quebrada (Springboard Moonsault inverted DDT)! North lifted Taylor up to his shoulders and Goldstein wanted to hit Falling With Style (A Doomsday Crossbody) but Williams ran around the ring and pushed Goldstein off the top and to the floor as he smashed off the barricade! Taylor rolled North forward for a pin and got two as he just kicked out.
Scott Parker: Krista May Williams using her awareness and a little bit of cheap tactics to make a save there and Kayla Taylor was almost able to sneak out of here with a win.
Taylor readied herself and hir North with Stamp It Out (Superkick to opponent on knees[Avada Kedavra-WWE 2k15)! North stayed on his knees, dazed, as Taylor and Williams hit the Series Canceled (BTE Trigger). Taylor rolled North over and went for a cover but Goldstein came flying off the top with an elbow! Goldstein hit a charging Williams with a backdrop and then jumped onto the apron. The fans ate it up when he tagged in and ran the ropes and hit a jumping shoulder tackle on Taylor. Taylor stumbled up and into the corner and Goldstein hit the Chutzpah Boot (Running Yakuza Kick)! Goldstein made a tag and they whipped Taylor into the ropes and Williams made a blind tag before the champions hit The E-RAD-Icator (Flapjack [Ronnie] into a Double Knee Gutbuster [Josh])!
Scott Parker: North is looking for a cover but Williams is the legal competitor!
Williams dumped Goldstein out of the ring and delivered the Last Breath (Swinging Inverted DDT) on North! She covered and North just kicked out at two. She pulled North up and looked to deliver the Stop, Drop & Roll (One-Handed Bulldog, run to the ropes, into a Rolling Thunder). Goldstein slapped the back of North to tag himself in and Williams hit her move. After she stood from the roll, Goldstein came flying off the top with a crossbody! Williams rolled through into a cover and got two before Goldstein kicked out! North stood and caught a charging Williams with the E-RAD-Icator! Goldstein covered as North clotheslined Taylor over the top as she tried to get into the ring and the champions retained!
WINNERS AND STILL EW TAG TEAM CHAMPIONS: The Radicalliance (Josh Goldstein & Ronnie North) via pinfall @ 19:49
The Tag Team Champions rolled out of the ring and hugged on the ramp as they held their titles up high as we cut away.
Let The Hate Flow Through You
We’re in the backstage area as we see Lacy Nelson in the process of getting ready. She’s lacing up her boots and looks up to see Kevin Olsen ready for a few words. She finished her final boot and took a step over to Olsen.
Lacy Nelson: Kevin.
Kevin Olsen: I’d love to get a few words before your match tonight, Lacy.
Lacy Nelson: Go for it. I feel like I laid everything out in the ring a couple weeks ago but have at it.
Kevin Olsen: This is far from the first match where you and FM Young have competed against each other but how does tonight feel differently than, say, something like Warfare in 2020 or Next Level: Turmoil in 2021?
Lacy only needs to take a moment to think before she starts to answer and looks at Kevin.
Lacy Nelson: Despite the numerous times that I’ve fought FM Young, even when I first debuted, there was some sort of respect that I had for her. When I debuted and attacked her it was because I respected her and yet hated the attention she got. I wanted those eyes on me and I went out and rewrote the headlines in Empire Wrestling forever. This time, there’s no respect. After everything she’s done to me she has created a new me. Gone is the blonde hair, gone is a girl that was full of confidence in herself, gone is someone that loved. I am going out there tonight and I will let the hate flow through me. I’m not going out there with winning as a goal. Tonight, I’m going out there to maim. I want FM to hurt like I did. I want her to feel all the pain I did inside. Tonight, FM Young and Lacy Nelson write a new chapter in our storied rivalry here in Empire Wrestling.
She takes a moment and looks into the camera.
Lacy Nelson: Alexa, you brought this on yourself.
Lacy looked at Olsen and shut the door behind her as she walked back into her dressing room.
Daniel Daemon Vs. Unknown Superstar
'Twist of Cain’ by Danzig kicked up and the fans booed the appearance of Daniel Daemon as he came to the ring for the next match.
Scott Parker: I have no idea who might be dumb enough to WANT to sign a contract to face the Emperor.
Gemma Foster: They are a former World Champion according to what we know. They’ll have the upper hand at least by Daemon not knowing who his opponent is.
Daemon pulled himself onto the apron and climbed over the top rope. He moved around the ring slowly as he awaited his foe for the evening. The Warehouse came unglued when "The Right Direction" by The Red Jumpsuit Apparatus as most knew the former BWF and eWo World Champion, Gabe Shelley. Shelley ran out to the stage and was clearly fired up as he threw his hooded vest back and showed his face.
Scott Parker: That’s Gabe Shelley! Gabe wants to take on Daniel Daemon!?
Gemma Foster: I think someone got bored sitting at home!
Shelley entered the ring and walked right up to Daemon and sized him up. He threw his arms out as he turned around and jumped onto the middle ropes. He removed his vest and tossed it away. The bell rang and things were set to get started. The two locked up and Daemon quickly pushed Shelley to the mat with pure strength. Shelley rolled to his feet and smiled and offered his hands. Daemon asked if he was sure and Shelley wanted it. Daemon grabbed his hands and powered him to a knee but Shelley was able to slip under Daemon and break the hold. Shelley locked in a side headlock but was quickly pushed into the ropes. Shelley looked for a shoulder block on the way back but Daemon didn’t budge. Shelley landed kicks to the leg and then a dropkick to the knees to take the big man down to one. Shelley looked for the Jersey Cutter (Twist of Fate) but Daemon pushed him away. Shelley charged but ran right into a chop to the chest. Shelley grabbed his chest and was scoop slammed onto the mat. Daemon pulled Shelley up and tossed him into the corner. Shelley charged and was lifted above the head of Daemon with a press but Shelley was able to counter into the Cannon Ball (Similar to the Codebreaker, but Gabe's knees are in his opponents chest)!
Gemma Foster: Shelley trying to hit all his big moves to take Daemon off his feet.
Shelley pulled Daemon into position and set up for the Junkyard Jam (Pedigree) but Daemon backdropped him over the top rope to the floor! Daemon took a moment to regroup and rolled out of the ring as Shelley started to stand. Daemon lifted Shelley up and dropped him across the barricade. Shelley tried to escape but Daemon pulled him in and delivered a powerbomb from the floor onto the apron!
Scott Parker: Shelley might have just broken his back!
Daemon rolled Shelley in and started to climb into the ring. Daemon went into a cover for just two as Shelley kicked out. Shelley started to fight his way to his feet and dodged a big boot. Shelley grabbed Daemon and used the corner to deliver the Giga Impact (Sliced Bread #2), a move performed by his wife. Shelley went into a cover and just got one as Daemon powered up. Daemon grabbed Shelley and looked for a chokeslam but Shelley countered as he spun away in the air. Shelley looked for the Junkyard Jam again but Daemon was able to counter into an Alabama Slam! Daemon grabbed Shelley by the throat and lifted him off the mat and delivered a big chokeslam. Daemon looked down at Shelley and pulled him up slowly and positioned him as he moved around the ring.
Scott Parker: This is it, Gemma.
Daemon lifted Shelley up and delivered the Twist of Cain II (Vertical Suplex Piledriver) and covered for the pinfall.
WINNER: Daniel Daemon via pinfall @ 16:39
Gemma Foster: Daemon showing again just how dangerous he is.
Daemon stood over Shelley as we cut for a quick break.
EW EXTREME CHAMPIONSHIP
Manic Vs. Harper Blake (c)
The area around the ring was set up with trash cans filled with various items as it was time for the Extreme Championship. Manic’s laugh echoed throughout the Warehouse as the lights went down and she crawled out to the stage.
Gemma Foster: Manic has been unusually quiet in the weeks leading up to this match, Scott.
Manic entered under the bottom ropes and crawled around the ring and just smiled into the camera. Harper Blake hit the stage with the Extreme Championship held high. She placed it on her shoulder and started making her way to the ring. Manic had brought in a few chairs and one of the trash cans was placed in a corner. Blake handed off the title just as Manic charged and unleashed a flurry of blows. Blake jumped onto Manic as the two brawled and rolled around the ring as the fans cheered. Blake jumped up and grabbed one of the chairs and rammed it into the gut of Manic. She set it up and wanted to hit a German suplex onto the chair but Manic was able to break her hold. Manic turned around and hit a jawbreaker. Manic lifted Blake and delivered the Breakneck (Fireman's Carry Neckbreaker) onto the opened chair! Manic covered and Blake was able to kick out. Manic wasted no time as she grabbed a kendo stick from the trashcan in the ring and unleashed shots across the back of Blake.
Scott Parker: Those shots are echoing throughout the Warehouse!
Blake rolled out of the ring and tried to get some space. Manic went chasing after her but Blake rolled back into the ring. She ran the ropes as Manic got back in and Blake met her with a running big boot! Blake hit a Russian leg sweep and looked around the ring. Blake dumped the contents from the trash can out near the corner and placed it over the head and torso of Manic. Blake ran the ropes and delivered the Future Sight (V-Trigger)! The trash can dented in as Manic dropped like a sack of potatoes. Blake went to the top rope and hit the DDS (Diving Double Stomp) onto the trashcanned Manic. Blake took the trashcan off and covered and the fans were shocked when Manic kicked out just in time.
Gemma Foster: No way! Manic just got her shoulder up at the last moment possible.
Blake pulled Manic up and Manic pushed her thumb into the eye of Blake and Blake staggered away. Blake turned back to Manic and was hit with a spinning backfist! Manic pulled Blake in quickly and delivered the Insane in the Membrane (Kneecap Brainbuster). Manic went into a cover and screamed as Blake kicked out at two. Manic pulled at her hair and stood, pacing around the ring. She looked over and grabbed a bag out of the corner and dumped out hundreds of tacks. Manic pulled Blake up and tried to suplex her onto the tacks but Blake was able to block it. Blake countered into a Falcon Arrow onto the tacks and Manic started to laugh. Blake covered and Manic kicked out right away and got to her feet.
Scott Parker: The pain has given Manic another life here.
Manic grabbed Blake and started to headbutt her again and again, over and over. The both were busted open before Manic hit an exploder suplex. Manic set up two chairs facing each other and grabbed Blake. Blake tried to fight back but was still doozy from the headbutts. Manic lifted Blake and hit the Death Inside (Murphy's Law), through the chairs! Manic locked in her PTO submission and Blake started to slip under and passed out as the referee had no choice but to call it.
WINNER AND NEW EW EXTREME CHAMPION: Manic via TKO @ 19:03
Manic screamed and didn’t let go of the hold at first but finally let go. Referees checked on Blake as Manic snatched the Extreme Championship and rolled out of the ring.
Scott Parker: Manic is now the only two time Extreme Champion.
Always Bet on Blue
The camera shifts backstage, where we find Senior Interviewer Kevin Olsen standing by.
Kevin Olsen: Ladies and gentlemen, my next guest is competing in tonight’s main event for the Empire Wrestling World Championship. Please welcome the Scrappy Songbird, Melody Slayton.
Melody Slayton walks into view and the fans cheer.
Kevin Olsen: Melody, you mentioned an excellent point on Twitter the other day. Tonight, you’re stepping into the ring with not only the longest-reigning World Champion in Empire Wrestling history, but also the longest-reigning Champion of any kind in company history.
Melody Slayton: Yep. It’s… gonna be an uphill battle, that’s for sure.
Kevin Olsen: I mean, forgive my forwardness here, but it’s difficult for me to imagine you having any real chance of winning here tonight.
Melody Slayton: Wow, thanks for the vote of confidence, Kev.
Kevin Olsen: Sorry, I’m not trying to offend you or anything. I simply mean that, on paper, you’re possibly the biggest underdog in the history of Empire Wrestling. Cross’ Primetime Championship run began over a full year before you even had your first official match. Santos began her current World Title run just two months after your pro debut over in Zion Wrestling.
Melody shifts uneasily as Kevin continues.
Kevin Olsen: So, I think ultimately, my question is this; why do you think you’re the one who can unseat the dominant Tia Santos? Why do you think you’re the one who can play spoiler to the seemingly inevitable ascension of Marilyn Lee Cross to the top of the Empire Wrestling mountain?
Slayton closes her eyes for a few brief moments, contemplating Kevin’s questions with as much seriousness as she can muster.
Melody Slayton: A year ago, at Next Level: Revolution, I defeated a ring full of competitors to claim the vacant Spartan Championship. I was a rookie then, and I still upset former Champions and walked out with my first singles Championship. Everyone discounted me then, and look what happened.
A beat.
Melody Slayton: Tonight, I'm stepping into the ring with probably the two greatest competitors Empire Wrestling has ever seen. It's easy to discount me as the odd woman out. Like you said, on paper, I don't have the experience. I don't have the pedigree. I haven't proven myself to be the main event level competitor that Marilyn Lee Cross and Tia Santos have. But what people seem to forget is, in this business, the only match that matters is the next one.
She smirks.
Melody Slayton: Santos and Cross are incredible competitors. I would never take that away from them, or try to pretend like they're not everything they say they are. To do so would be not only a disservice to them, but to Empire Wrestling as a whole. But tonight's show isn’t called Pedigree… it’s called Next Level: REBIRTH.
A pause.
Melody Slayton: There is no Rebirth without change, and there is no change if Tia Santos retains the Empire Wrestling World Championship. Likewise, as much as she believes she deserves the championship, there's nothing fresh and new about Marilyn Lee Cross carrying yet another singles title in Empire Wrestling. As far as I'm concerned, there's only one actual chance of ANY sort of Rebirth happening tonight, and that's for new blood to take their place at the top of this company.
She leans in slightly.
Melody Slayton: I am the Rebirth that this company needs.
Melody grins.
Melody Slayton: Santos and Cross have had their day. They've had moment after moment after moment in Empire Wrestling. This company, these fans? They're all ready for something new, and you're looking at her.
Slayton paces a bit as she continues, her usually bubbly exterior hardening somewhat.
Melody Slayton: Tonight, I'm going to shock my opponents. I'm going to shock the world. Heck, I might even shock myself a little bit, as a treat.
Melody giggles softly.
Melody Slayton: Kevin, there's only one way tonight ends - the underdog wins it all. I didn't come here tonight to be a notch on Tia Santos' bedpost. I didn't show up to be the final trial or the last stepping stone for Marilyn Lee Cross. I'm here tonight at Rebirth to win my first World Championship. I don't care how it looks on paper; as far as I'm concerned, the only person who has a single solitary chance of winning tonight is ME. Because my name is Melody Slayton… and you always bet on blue.
She puts a hand on Kevin’s shoulder and smiles softly.
Melody Slayton: Now, if you'll excuse me, I'm going to go win the one World Title that eluded my father. He said not to do this for him, but… this title retired him. The least I can do is put a Slayton's name on it.
Melody winks to Kevin before exiting the scene. Kevin, seemingly at a loss for words, merely motions to the camera to head back to ringside as tonight’s action continues.
NO HOLDS BARRED
Lacy Nelson Vs. FM Young
The fans popped as "Helix" by Amaranthe began to play and out walked FM Young. She came out in a boxing robe with her hood up. She went to both knees at the top of the ramp as she looked down. She jumped up and looked up to the fans and smirked.
Scott Parker: Big fight feels here, Gemma. This isn’t going to be a pretty wrestling match but instead a FIGHT.
Young rolled into the ring and removed her robe and tossed it away as she stretched against the ropes. Once “Come and Get It” played, the crowd turned and Lacy Nelson walked out. There were a few scattered cheers for Nelson as she looked down to the ring. She ran down the ramp and slid under the ropes. She popped up to her feet and we were off as the two exchanged lefts and rights.
Gemma Foster: Lacy doesn’t want to waste any time getting her hands on FM and FM is happy to fight!
Scott Parker: Yeah but you don’t want to get into a striking match with FM!
Nelson was able to land a few hard blows and a big chop to the chest. Young drove her knee into the gut of Nelson and made her eat forearms to the face. Young came back with a big forearm of her own but Young landed two quick ones in succession. Young flipped Nelson with a judo toss and Nelson tried to quickly stand but was taken down with a Russian leg sweep. Young went for a cover and got a one before Nelson powered away. She got to her feet and finally took a deep breath as she circled around Young. They went to lock up and Nelson speared Young through the ropes to the floor as they bounced off the apron. The fight went around the ring as they exchanged blows. Nelson whipped Young into the steps as she tumbled into them, back first. Nelson started to look under the ring and quickly pulled out a table to a cheer. She set it up on the outside of the ring and quickly pulled out a second and placed it beside it.
Gemma Foster: I can’t even imagine what Lacy is planning in her head right now.
Nelson was back to Young and Young hit a big uppercut to the jaw. Nelson landed a kick to the gut but Young quickly responded with a big spear on the outside! Young pulled Nelson up and the two tried to get the other into the ring but Young smacked Nelson’s face off the post on the outside. Nelson grabbed at her face and Young looked for another spear but ran into a lifting kick. Nelson readied Young and delivered a double underhook powerbomb onto the barricade! Young fell into the crowd as Nelson wiped some sweat from her face with a towel from ringside. Nelson reached into her boot and pulled out a silver chain before reaching over the barricade. She wrapped it around the throat of Young and started to choke her as she pulled back and eventually pulled her over the barricade with it.
Scott Parker: Lacy just viciously choking FM with some sort of chain.
Nelson wrapped the chain around Young’s throat again and pulled at the back so tight she was able to walk her like a leash and got her over to the tables. Nelson pulled Young up and started to set up for a powerbomb but Young backdropped Nelson onto the floor! Young started to pull up the padding on the floor to expose the concrete below as the fans gasped. Nelson was up and was hit with a hard kick to the gut. Young started to set up for a piledriver but Nelson was able to get away and avoid it. She walked around the ring and Young went the opposite way. Young ran around the ring and came around the corner looking for a spear but Nelson jumped over her. Young turned and was rocked with a superkick! Nelson pulled Young over to the tables again and placed her onto one of them and started to climb back to the apron. Young was able to get up and get after Nelson. Nelson was on the top rope and Young was there as they fought. Nelson smashed the head of Young onto the top post. She pulled Young to the very top of the turnbuckles and placed her in position.
Scott Parker: Whatever you're thinking about Lacy, it’s not worth it!
Nelson flipped off the top and delivered the Byline (Canadian Destroyer) to the floor below, through the tables! “Holy shit” chants rang throughout the Warehouse.
Gemma Foster: If anything, those tables just saved FM’s life.
Nelson eventually started to stir and pulled Young up and rolled her into the ring. Nelson pulled herself inside and covered and FM Young kicked out at two. Nelson was in shock as the fans cheered Young on. Nelson pulled Young to her knees and leaned into the ropes. She begged her to stand up as she wanted a big superkick. Nelson closed her eyes and hit a superkick! Nelson roared as she screamed at Young and circled around her. Young got to her feet and ate the Headline (Eat Defeat)! Nelson went into a cover and Young just kicked out in time at two.
Gemma Foster: Lacy is punishing FM but she keeps finding ways to kick out.
Nelson looked around and rolled out of the ring and had a knife. She started to cut the ropes holding the padding down on the mat and exposed the wood. She pulled all the protection off from one corner and dumped the knife. She pulled Young onto the wood and started to set up for another Byline.
Scott Parker: That’s enough!
Nelson was flipped back as Young countered the Byline. Nelson stood and Young hit a big desperation spear and both women were down. Nelson and Young were both up and Nelson looked for a strike but missed, allowing Young to deliver Heart of a Phoenix (Lumbar Check)! Young covered Nelson and she kicked out at two! Nelson shook her head as Young told her to just stay down. They sat on their knees and exchanged lefts and rights. Young hit a big headbutt and pulled Nelson to her feet. Young roared and flipped Nelson inside out with the Man-Machine Interface (Discus Clothesline)! Nelson popped up and screamed in the face of Young to hit her again. Young told Nelson to just stay down and landed a hard punch that staggered her backwards. Nelson looked for a superkick but missed as Young dodged it and then leveled Nelson once again with Man-Machine Interface. Nelson tried to stand but stumbled into the dangerous corner. She tried to look for a superkick but it was countered into the Human Error Processor (Pop-up Powerbomb), right onto the exposed wood! Young fell onto Nelson and picked up the pinfall win.
WINNER: FM Young via pinfall @ 23:41
Young had her hand raised before falling to her knees beside Nelson. She leaned down as her hair covered Lacy’s face but what was said couldn’t be picked up. Young was helped to her feet by the referee as Nelson was checked on by trainers.
Gemma Foster: What do you say after a match like that, Scott? It was a classic and is another chapter in the book of FM and Lacy but at what cost?
Scott Parker: While the team gets the ring back together lets go backstage one more time.
Who is Next Level?
For the final time tonight we’re standing by with Kevin Olsen as he’s next to Operating Manager, Tom Carr. The two are side by side ready for an interview.
Kevin Olsen: Ladies and gentlemen, I’m standing here with EW’s Operating Manager, Tom Carr. Mr. Carr, you asked for a few moments here tonight.
Tom Carr: I did, Kevin. Thank you. I thought we could take a few moments to talk about what’s next. Tonight’s Rebirth event has been amazing so far and I know our main event is going to a phenomenal ending to the night. With that said it’s always important to look to what is next and, to me, the answer to that is simple. We’ll need to crown a new Primetime Champion and we have such an amazing roster of talent that deserves a chance at becoming the next Primetime Champion. The Primetime Championship has been held by Empire Wrestling royalty and whoever the next champion is will have large shoes to fill. Tonight we saw two triple threat matches that I promised would have ramifications for the quest to crown a new Primetime Champion. Those two winners will be given a chance to compete for that championship.
There’s a cheer from the fans as Carr keeps speaking.
Tom Carr: There will be a couple more people added to that match however. When I think of great Primetime Championship matches I think of two things: Next Level: Ascension and ladders.
A loud pop.
Tom Carr: Next Level: Revolution is traditionally a fall event but we’re in a new age, we’re in a rebirth. That event is being moved to be the biggest event of the summer. June 24th, Next Level: Revolution. Hanako, Harper Mason, and others will compete for the vacant Primetime Championship.
Kevin Olsen: There you have it, folks. Let’s go down to ringside for the main event.
EW WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP
Melody Slayton Vs. Marilyn Lee Cross Vs. Tia Santos (c)
The fans were buzzing as we had come to the main event of the evening. Melody Slayton was the first competitor to make her way to the stage and seemed as focused as ever but bounced around the ring once she entered. She jumped into a corner and waved out to the fans as she waited.
Gemma Foster: The young Slayton is facing her biggest challenge in her career here tonight. While she’s looked great here in Empire Wrestling, she has to topple two of the most winningest competitors tonight.
Scott Parker: Say her name!
The fans popped once again as Marilyn Lee Cross stepped out onto the stage next. The former Primetime Champion looked down to Slayton and started to make her journey to the ring after posing.
Scott Parker: Marilyn Lee Cross just spent almost 900 days as a champion here in Empire Wrestling and she’s looking to capture the EW World Championship tonight. My money is on Cross tonight.
Cross stood near the ropes, facing the crowd, as she put her arms out and motioned for the title. She looked back at Slayton as the two both turned their attention to the top of the ramp as the lights dimmed and smoke rose. The Empire Wrestling World Champion, Tia Santos, stepped through the crowd to a mixed reaction as many that didn’t like her had to respect her.
Gemma Foster: 371 days ago, Tia Santos defeated Casey Grey at Next Level: Revolution. Tonight, she comes into the ring with only 1 loss in her entire EW career. You have to think that house money is on Tia to retain tonight.
Santos slowly made her way to the ring and walked all the way around the ring. She climbed up the steps and perched on the turnbuckle as she looked at her two competitors. She raised her hands as the lights came up and she jumped off the top and landed on her feet. She removed the title and held it. The match was announced and everyone was introduced. Santos held the title up as she was announced and then handed it to the official. The bell rang and the fans cheered as the match was set. The three competitors looked around at each other and all awaited the other to make the first move. It wasn’t until Slayton started to move that she was rocked with a forearm from Santos. Slayton then turned and hit Cross with a right hand. Cross reared back and hit a chop to the chest of Santos. Santos turned to Cross and landed a chop in return. Cross turned to Slayton and hit a big right hand. Slayton turned to Santos and connected with a hard forearm to the face.
Gemma Foster: Look at these three exchanging blows!
Slayton took a hard chop from Santos and then was taken down with an arm drag. Cross hit the ropes and a running crossbody on Santos and took her to the mat. Cross covered for just one as Santos kicked out right at one. Santos got to her feet right away and moved out of the way as Slayton hit a big uppercut on Cross and then flipped her to the mat with a suplex. Slayton got to her feet and Santos hit a series of hard chops and then a big right hand. Santos hit the ropes and took Slayton down with a headscissors take down and Slayton rolled out of the ring. Santos and Cross were left standing in the ring and the two started to go blow for blow in the middle of the ring. Cross whipped Santos into the ropes and swung while Santos ducked it and kept running. Cross dropped down and missed Santos looking for a clothesline. The two both hit cartwheels and hit a double clothesline to take each other down!
Scott Parker: Santos and Cross reading each other and ended up thinking the same thing.
Slayton was on the apron as both Cross and Santos started to get up and Slayton jumped over the top and hit a double Flight Risk (Slingshot DDT) as she took them both down! Slayton pulled Cross to her feet and delivered a Russian leg sweep and rolled to her feet. Slayton looked for the superkick part of Full Effect 2.0 on Santos but Santos caught her foot. Santos sent Slayton into the ropes and met her with a Spanish Fly! Santos went for a cover but Cross was there quickly to pull her off. Cross grabbed Santos and dumped her over the top rope to the floor. Cross measured up Slayton and delivered the Knee Harvey Oswald (Running Knee to the side of an opponent's head)! Cross quickly pulled Slayton up and hit the Mary Go Round (Discus Big Boot). Cross went for a cover on Slayton and was pulled out of the ring at two by Santos!
Scott Parker: Tia Santos possibly just saved her championship!
Santos grabbed Cross by the hair and sent her up and over the announce table and turned her attention to the ring. Santos entered the ring and Slayton was starting to get to her feet. Santos started to set up for Beso de Muerte ([Kiss of Death] Dream DDT) but Slayton countered into a small package for two! Both competitors were on their feet and Slayton delivered This Magic Moment (V Trigger)! Slayton followed it up with Full Effect 2.0 (Superkick*, followed by a Shining Wizard). She covered and Cross came flying off the top with an elbow drop to the back to break it up.
Gemma Foster: This match might have just ended had Cross not been there to break it up!
The competitors were down as the fans cheered them on. They all started to stand and exchange blows once again as the fans cheered. Cross lifted Slayton up and drove her to the mat with Do A Barrel Roll (Cartwheel Death Valley Driver)! Cross stood and Santos delivered a big Chick Kick that crumbled her. Santos went into a bridging pin and Cross powered up at two and looked for the Do a Barrel Roll but Santos slipped to her feet and hit the Beso de Muerte! Santos went into a cover and Cross kicked out at two! The crowd roared as Santos looked around in shock. She started to pull Cross back up and turned as Slayton came off the middle turnbuckle and delivered the Glitter Bomb (Panama Sunrise)! Slayton dove onto Santos and shocked the world with a three count!
WINNER AND NEW EW WORLD CHAMPION: Melody Slayton via pinfall @ 28:11
Slayton popped up in shock and ran into the ropes as she shook in pure joy.
Scott Parker: Melody Slayton is the new Empire Wrestling World Champion! I don’t believe it!
Slayton’s name was announced as she was handed the championship. She clutched it close to her chest as Santos rolled out of the ring and couldn’t believe what just happened. Cross sat against the barricade and just shook her head before starting to make her way to the back. Streamers started to fill the ring in as Slayton dropped to her knees.
Yea, yea, yea
Ooh
I can feel it move me
Feel it shove me
As I break the law
Said yea
Scott Parker: No.
Slayton turned her head to the top of the ramp as Daniel Daemon walked out with the Victorem Briefcase in hand. He moved to the ring and handed it off and Slayton just shook her head. The bell rang as Daemon used his Victorem contract.
EW WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP
Daniel DaemonVs. Melody Slayton (c)
Gemma Foster: No! This is the kid’s moment!
Slayton ran and caught Daemon with This Magic Moment (V Trigger)! She took the fight right to Daemon and hit a second one! Daemon grabbed Slayton and looked for a chokeslam but she kicked him in the gut and got free. She delivered a superkick that staggered the big man and then a second. She completed the Full Effect 2.0 (Superkick*, followed by a Shining Wizard) and went for a cover but Daemon kicked out at one and pushed his way to his feet. She charged and was pushed to the mat. She ran again and Daemon delivered a big chokeslam! Daemon grabbed her by the arm and neck as he deadlifted her into the Twist of Cain II (Vertical Suplex Piledriver) and covered as the fans booed, getting the three count.
WINNER AND NEW EW WORLD CHAMPION: Daniel Daemon via pinfall @ 4:09
Scott Parker: I don’t even know what to say.
The crowd started to throw trash into the ring as Daemon was announced the winner and held the title above his head.
Gemma Foster: Daniel Daemon is now a two time EW World Champion.
Scott Parker: All hail.
Daemon stood over Slayton as we ended the show.