Post by Admin on May 16, 2023 0:22:03 GMT -5
Episode #96 - May 14, 2023
Scott Parker: Welcome, everyone, to EW’s Hype! Tonight, for the first time, we’ll see two members of the Untethered Empire team up as the Spartan Champion, Martin West, teams up with Lacy Nelson and let me tell you, Gemma, I did NOT see that coming two weeks ago.
Gemma Foster: When Lacy Nelson came out I think all of us expected her to challenge Daniel Daemon for the World Championship, not superkick Melody Slayton and side with the Untethered Emperor and his new Empire.
We see a clip of Nelson talking on the last episode of Hype saying, “History likes to repeat itself” before superkicking Slayton before the trio of herself, West, and Daemon were run off eventually by FM Young and Marilyn Lee Cross.
Scott Parker: West and Nelson team up tonight against Slayton and Marilyn Lee Cross in our main event. Also tonight, we’ll see the debut of an amateur wrestling champion in Jenna Jillian Walker as she takes on the returning Gio DeLuca.
Gemma Foster: I can’t wait to see Harper Mason in her third match here in Empire Wrestling as she takes on Limitless Wrestling’s Emerald City Champion and former EW Tag Team Champion, Kayla Taylor. Mason has been impressive but Taylor has been on another level over at Limitless if you haven’t been keeping up.
Hanako Vs. Harper Blake
Scott Parker: Starting off with what should be a fun match, Gemma. We know that Hanako is one of two people currently scheduled for what will be a ladder match to determine a new Primetime Champion at Next Level: Revolution on June 24th.
Hanako was out first as the fans gave her a cheer while she waved to the fans in the Warehouse. She ran the ropes and stretched before Blake was out next. Harper Blake entered the ring and offered her hand as the fans gave a clap for them shaking hands before the match. Blake and Hanako locked up and Hanako quickly tried to flip Blake down with an armdrag but Blake spun and flipped Hanako down with a hip toss. Hanako rolled forward and sprung back up to her feet. Hanako ran into a forearm smash from Blake but then came right back with a chop to her chest. Hanako stepped up and took Blake down with a headscissors take down and got back to her feet. Blake ran at Hanako and was flipped up and over the top rope to the apron. Hanako springboarded off the middle ropes and hit Blake with a dropkick to send her down to the floor! Hanako was fired up and looked out at Blake. She ran the ropes and went up and over with a tope con hilo! Hanako quickly grabbed Blake and pulled her up before rolling her into the ring and slid inside. She went into a cover and got two before Blake kicked out.
Gemma Foster: Hanako throwing her body around like it’s a weapon!
Hanako started to make her way to the top rope but Blake clubbed her from behind. Blake climbed to the second rope and hit a belly to back suplex! Blake climbed to her feet as Hanako slowly got to hers. Hanako got to her feet and swung but Blake ducked it and locked in a double chickenwing before lifting her up and dropping her face first with a facebuster. Blake rolled Hanako over into a cover and Hanako kicked out at two. Blake quickly readied herself and came off the ropes before hitting Future Sight (V-Trigger)! Blake pulled Hanako up and delivered a bridging fisherman’s suplex for a cover, just getting two before Hanako kicked out again.
Scott Parker: Hanako toughing it out despite that vicious knee to the head.
Blake started to pull Hanako up who tried to pull her down for a small package attempt which got a two count before Blake just kicked out in time. Hanako went into a victory roll and got another close two count. Hanako grabbed Blake and delivered her Fūkiri (Reverse Ddt into facebuster)! Hanako hooked both legs for a cover and was shocked when Blake kicked out. Hanako looked around and looked over at the corner. She made her way to the top and looked for a moonsault but Blake got her knees up into the gut! Hanako grabbed at her ribs and Blake stood before hitting another Future Sight! Blake pulled Hanako right up and delivered a falcon arrow and covered, picking up a three count!
WINNER: Harper Blake via pinfall @ 13:44
After the match, the two shook hands in the middle of the ring as the fans cheered.
Scott Parker: Harper Blake with a big, impressive win here tonight. She’s come up short on a couple occasions for the Primetime Championship so you have to believe she’s gunning for another shot with a win tonight.
Heart to Heart
The camera cuts to the locker room backstage, where Melody Slayton is wrapping her wrists in preparation for tonight’s tag team match. There is a knock at the door.
Melody Slayton: Come in!
The door opens and the crowd pops as former EW competitor - and Melody’s father - David Slayton enters the room.
Melody Slayton: Dad!
Melody bounces to her feet and wraps up her father in a tight hug.
David Slayton: Hey, kiddo. How’s things?
Melody plops back down on the locker room bench and continues wrapping her wrist tape.
Melody Slayton: Well, prom with Callie last night was great. I’ve got this keeping me company -
She reaches over to her backpack and gently pats the BWF World Championship resting next to it.
Melody Slayton: - and tonight, I have a chance to take out some of my Empire-related aggression on Daniel Daemon’s top two toady footstools. So all in all, I can’t complain!
David chuckles.
David Slayton: Great. I caught the last episode of Hype and I gotta say, you really nailed that whole promo against Daemon. I totally believed every word you were saying.
Melody pauses mid-wrap and glances up at her dad.
Melody Slayton: …well, of course you liked it. You wrote it. All I did was read it and try to look ferocious.
A pause.
Melody Slayton: I feel like I came across more… constipated than filled with righteous anger.
David laughs.
David Slayton: No, it came across great. So, next time, I’m thinking you -
Melody quickly puts a hand up, cutting her father off.
Melody Slayton: Whoa, whoa, whoa. Um… look, Dad, you know I appreciate you helping me out. You’ve got decades of experience in this business and nine World Titles to your name. But…
She pauses for a moment, thinking over her next words carefully.
Melody Slayton: …I don’t think the whole “angry wrestler” thing is for me. It just felt so uncharacteristic, you know? So rehearsed. That’s not what I’m all about! I’m happy! I’m bubbly! I mean, my Twitter account literally says I’m relentlessly optimistic! The last thing I want is to become just another cookie-cutter by-the-numbers wrestler without a speck of originality to their name!
A very awkward pause, as Melody blushes and lowers her head.
Melody Slayton: …um, no offense or anything.
After a moment, she dares to look up at her father. Perhaps expecting disappointment or pain, she is instead surprised to find him smirking.
David Slayton: Yeah. I mean, believe me, I know. You’re one of a kind, kiddo. None of this is news to me.
He sits down next to Melody and puts his arm around her. She leans her head into his shoulder as he continues.
David Slayton: I know the stuff I suggested you say two weeks ago, not really your style. It was always mine. I just thought I could help you show off that killer edge you need against someone like Danny.
He pauses as he leans back, deep in thought.
David Slayton: But there’s something else I didn’t take into account when I plotted all this out. I threw all the “killer edge” I had at Dan back when I was in Empire the last time he was Champion, and it wasn’t enough to get the job done. It was stupid of me to think you could defeat him using the same methods that failed me years ago. The truth is…
David stands up, clearing his throat.
David Slayton: …you’re everything I wasn’t in this business. You’re starry-eyed. Hopeful. Determined. God damn, kiddo, you inspire the hell out of me. In just over a year, you managed to win the one World Title that eluded me my entire career, and you beat two of Empire Wrestling’s greatest Champions to do it.
A beat.
David Slayton: Maybe being the “stereotypical wrestler” worked for me, but I didn’t have half the raw talent you do, and I mean that with every fiber of my being. What you need to do now is continue doing what already won you two World Championships - just be yourself.
He grins.
David Slayton: That’s how you beat Martin West and Lacy Nelson tonight. And that’s how you beat Daniel Daemon and become a two-time Empire Wrestling World Champion. And THIS time… don’t let anyone cash in on you, eh?
Melody giggles as she stands up and hugs her Dad again.
Melody Slayton: One step at a time, Dad. Daemon’s time will come, don’t worry about that. Someday, he’s gonna be standing across the ring from me, that title is gonna be on the line, and he won’t realize it then, but his title reign ends the moment that bell rings. But tonight, my entire focus is on Martin and Lacy. Marilyn and I have some business to take care of, and take care of it we will.
David Slayton: Oh oh oh, can I say it?
Melody laughs harder.
Melody Slayton: Please do!
He loudly clears his throat.
David Slayton: Because you ALWAYS BET ON BLUE!
Melody snaps at her father, points and winks playfully.
Melody Slayton: Now you’re gettin’ it!
Father and daughter both laugh and share another hug before he leaves Melody to continue preparing. Her eyes glance over to the BWF World Title and she sighs gently.
Melody Slayton: Daemon’s never gonna see me coming.
A pause.
Melody Slayton: They never do.
She smirks to herself, then resumes wrapping her wrist tape as the camera fades back to ringside.
Jenna Jillian Walker Vs. Gio DeLuca
Gio DeLuca: You know what I hate?
The crowd begins to boo as Gio DeLuca comes out for his shtick before the next match as he walked to the ring.
Gio DeLuca: I’ve been gone for a little bit now and I get booked in my return match yet everyone is talkin’ about this amateur making her debut. ERRRR. Wrong, sweetheart. Tonight is about Gio. Come on down and catch a fist to ya mouth.
The crowd gave Jenna Jillian Walker a warm welcome as she came out to the stage. She hit the fans with a quick pose on the ramp and made her way into the ring.
Gemma Foster: Walker is a two time state champion in high school and also saw some success in Junior college. She’s making her Empire Wrestling debut tonight and the young talent in EW right now is looking bright!
DeLuca danced around Walker as she readied herself. He lunged at Walker but she grabbed him and slammed him to the mat with ease. DeLuca got back to his feet and landed a kick to the gut. He ran the ropes and was bounced off the mat with a spinebuster. Walker quickly moved into a single leg crab and worked on his knee. He started to struggle free and Walker slipped to the front and locked in an arm lock and wrenched his arm behind DeLuca’s back. DeLuca was able to get to the ropes and caused a break. The two locked back up and Walker tried to set up for a neckbreaker but DeLuca got free and popped her in the back of the head with a forearm. He pulled Walker in for a bulldog and started to run but she countered into a belly to back suplex. DeLuca hit the mat and rolled to his feet before getting taken back down with a German suplex. Walker pulled him up and delivered a bridging northern lights suplex for a two count before he kicked out.
Gemma Foster: Walker with a close two count there but DeLuca is just able to get his shoulders up in time.
DeLuca put his fists up for a fight and swung but missed as Walker drove her knee into his gut. She backed up and DeLuca charged wildly right into All the Way Up (Pop-up Powerbomb)! Walker quickly positioned DeLuca and locked in her Dismantle (Fujiwara Armbar) and forced DeLuca to tap out.
WINNER: Jenna Jillian Walker via submission @ 8:09
Walker had her hand raised in victory as she celebrated her first win in an EW ring.
Sermons on the Subjects of Gold and Pride
We’re treated to a pre-taped segment with FM Young in an undisclosed location as she has something on her mind.
“Here we are again, I never thought of myself as one for sermons, but apparently the actual religious nuts in the building feel the need to keep making me explain this shit to the adults. Which is what I feel like, the old, tired, adult. I get it, Untethered Emperor, I’m not going to be one to deny the number that Daniel Daemon has done to me over the years. That guy is a force of nature, but right now? His nature is pain. Just, pure heartbreak. It’s something I can certainly sympathize with, cause lord knows I was in an Irish Cult for years…This should go some way into explaining my sheer frustration with this whole shit show. The man’s a monster fueled by his turmoil and I know him well enough to suspect there’s a woman and a family in the ashes.”
“Not to say that Daniel hasn’t always been this driven, but I once knew a guy who wanted to leave things better than he had them. So there’s definitely a thorn in his paw this time and Martin? The good and steadfast Padre, now twisted right into his sacramental wine, washing it down with the violence. Gods, that’s tempting, is it not? I get it, and I can’t really say anything about Lacy, because I caused that mess…So I suppose it’s all in the reaping there. But this? The public temper tantrums? I’m here to work. I’m here to do the thing I fucking love to do, to the point that I’ve tried and failed to leave, multiple times. But all of them? They sit there, proclaim greatness and do nothing but take their heartbreak and tempers out on others.”
“Now, I want to leave things better than I found them. I have no idea how long this ride lasts, if I flame out, if I get injured. I’m here to make my impact known while I can and to maybe make sure the future of EW is in safe hands too. I’m not here to babysit violent children and even more violent old men going through a mid-life crisis. I’m not here to take out my pain on everyone else. Again. I. Am. Here. To. Work. Let me rewind for a moment, and tell all of you, just how important Empire Wrestling and David Blazenwing have been to my career. In a lot of ways I owe everything I am to BWF and EW. Everything. I also owe so much to Mari, who was with me through a lot and got me through even more. Pip is the only person who remembers my birthday on the day.”
“So when it comes to paying that back for them? As far as I’m concerned, the kids have first dibs on the world title. It’s just their right, don’t get me wrong, I’ll take whatever golden opportunity I can get. That never changes. Me, the last daughter of Agiad, a Spartan KING, I’ll take that Spartan Championship off of Marty. If that’s how this goes. But if Melody and Mari are fighting an uphill battle? Well, me hating bullies hasn’t changed either.”
“Yeah, I’m old, I’m tired and sick of the immature insanity on display. But that means you’re getting the toughest piece of shoe leather, you can all wear yourselves out trying to kick my ass. I’ll stand by the youngins, I guess pun intended? I’m going to work on supporting them. Because this? My career. It has gotta end for me. Eventually. The Empire Championship, World, heavyweight. Whatever it is…It’s always been my bookend. The period on my sentence. But right now? I’m willing to let life circle back around. I like records. I like setting the standard. I will chase other titles, and make other marks in Empire. I’m not ready to be done, my bookend can wait. Mari, and Melody, I care about them both and both of them are damn good strong shoulders for this business to go on. I’m not worried, but I am going to make some fuckin memories.”
Kaito Hirano Vs. Josh Goldstein
Scott Parker: Ronnie North and Jason Evans have been banned from ringside for this one as Tom Carr wants to see these two go at it as we look towards the next challenge for Goldstein and North.
Goldstein came to the ring first with a huge pop from the fans as one of EW’s fan favorites came to the ring. He wore his Tag Team Championship around his waist and jumped onto the apron and then climbed up a turnbuckle from the outside and jumped down to the mat. Kaito Hirano stood on the stage and looked around as the fans booed. He got into the ring and quickly looked to attack Goldstein as the bell rang. A series of kicks from Hirano opened things up before he rocked Goldstein with an uppercut. He looked for a Blue Thunder Bomb early but Goldstein fought back with an elbow to the head and was able to get separation. Goldstein turned and flipped Hirano to the mat with a snap suplex and quickly pulled him back up to his feet. He slapped Hirano on the chest and grabbed him by the hand. Goldstein ran up the turnbuckle and delivered the Sure Shot (Rope Walk Armdrag). Goldstein popped up to his feet and posed for the fans as they cheered him on.
Gemma Foster: The fans absolutely love Josh Goldstein and the energy he brings to the Warehouse.
Hirano pulled himself to his feet using the ropes and caught Goldstein as he looked for a running crossbody. Hirano lifted Goldstein to his shoulders and wanted his Oyasumi [Goodnight] (Fireman's Carry Overhead Kick) but Goldstein was able to counter into a sunset flip! He covered but barely got a two before Hirano kicked out. Hirano quickly rolled out of the ring and tried to create some space between the two. Goldstein followed after him and grabbed him from behind. Hirano slipped behind him and hit a dragon suplex on the floor outside!
Scott Parker: Goldstein just hit hard!
Hirano rolled in and out of the ring to reset the count and pulled Goldstein up. He tried to send Goldstein into the steps on the outside but Goldstein jumped over them and rolled to his feet. Hirano ran and launched himself off the steps but Goldstein ducked him as Hirano crashed and burned off a crossbody attempt and to the timekeeper's area. Goldstein reached over the wall to grab Hirano and ate the ring bell to the face as the fans booed!
Gemma Foster: Kaito Hirano just CLOCKED Goldstein with the bell and this one is going to be over as the referee is calling the match.
WINNER: Josh Goldstein via DQ @ 14:11
Hirano stood over Goldstein and started to stomp at him and shouted at him in Japanese. Ronnie North came rushing out to save his partner as Hirano jumped into the crowd as he made his exit.
Scott Parker: I think Kaito Hirano was more interested in sending a message than he was winning this match tonight.
Put it on Red
We see Lacy Nelson sitting in her locker room as she looks down at the ground.
Lacy Nelson: Rawr. Listen to the little songbird sing. She wants to slap the color right out of my hair. It’s cute to see you try to act like your daddy, Mel. You’re right, it doesn’t suit you. What I did two weeks ago wasn’t personal, kiddo. You actually seem really sweet but since day one I’ve been telling all of you. I make the headlines. I came to Empire Wrestling from across the country looking to make a name for myself in this business and over the last year or so I have lost an edge. Siding with Daniel Daemon and joining the Untethered Empire isn’t about worshiping someone or being brainwashed into following someone into some sort of personal war.
Lacy finally looks up and stares into the camera.
Lacy Nelson: I aligned myself with Daniel Daemon because I believe that iron sharpens iron. I’ve lost an edge that I need to figure out how to get back and he’s offered to help me find it. Lacy Nelson and Daniel Daemon? That’s a goddamn headline.
She runs her fingers through her hair and she scoffs.
Lacy Nelson: It doesn’t matter who had been in the ring at Hype, they were getting kicked. You just happened to be in the wrong place at the wrong time, Melly. Then, of course, FM had to interject herself into things like she owed you and your pops something. Marilyn Lee Cross? My guess is that she wants a piece of Daemon’s World Championship too. You’ll all fall to the Untethered Emperor.
Lacy finally stands and grabs her leather jacket out of her locker and swings it over her shoulder.
Lacy Nelson: Tonight I’m going to go out there with Martin and we’re going to show the world that you should never underestimate us. We’re going to show the world that the Untethered Empire has some of the best talent in professional wrestling tonight. Tonight? I write another headline.
Kayla Taylor Vs. Harper Mason
Kayla Taylor entered the Warehouse and the ring ready for this upcoming match. The fans cheered on Harper Mason as she came out.
Gemma Foster: Harper Mason has been impressive here in her short EW run so far. Let’s see how she can fair against a veteran like Kayla Taylor.
The two moved around the ring and circled each other before locking up in a traditional collar and elbow tie up. Mason kicked at the leg of Taylor and backed her into the ropes. The two fought and spun along the ropes before the referee forced a break. Taylor poked the eyes of Mason as the fans booed and the referee gave her a warning. Taylor took Mason down with a jumping neckbreaker and rolled into a sleeper hold. Mason was able to fight her way to her feet eventually and pushed Taylor off. Taylor charged and ran into a clothesline. Taylor bounced up and was flipped backwards with a back drop. Mason pulled Taylor up to her feet and whipped her into the corner. Mason hit a big corner clothesline and was fired up. She ran to the far side and came rushing right back for another but Taylor lifted her up and over the top rope. Mason quickly set and flipped into the ring with the Masonline Special (Buckshot Lariat)!
Scott Parker: Taylor was just flipped inside out with a shot like that!
Mason went into a cover but Taylor kicked out and got to her feet. Both competitors got to their feet and Mason ducked an incoming blow and grabbed Taylor. She looked for a turnbuckle assisted tornado DDT but Taylor pushed her off and Mason landed face first on the mat. She started to stand but ate Taylor’s Plan A (Shining Wizard)! Taylor went into a cover, just barely getting to. Taylor stayed right on Mason with right hands and eventually pulled her to her feet. Taylor put her opponent into position for her Atonement (Spin Sit-out Powerbomb) and lifted her up but Mason countered into a hurricanrana into a pinfall attempt that got two! Both competitors scurried to their feet quickly and Mason hit a big discus elbow to the face.
Gemma Foster: Kayla Taylor is reeling after that shot!
Taylor came back with a right hand but Mason popped her with a hard uppercut in response. Taylor ducked an incoming lariat and had Mason set up for Broadway Lights (Cross Rhodes)! Mason was able to turn herself and delivered a northern lights suplex. Mason rolled Taylor to her feet and delivered Into The Earth (Ripcord Rolling Elbow). Mason was fired up and started to pull Taylor up by her arm.
Scott Parker: She might be thinking Crowd Killer here.
Mason was in fact thinking Crowd Killer (Ripcord Cutter) but Taylor had it scouted and pushed Mason into the ropes. Taylor scooped Mason and dropped her into a backbreaker and showed off some incredible power as she stood and lifted her into a fisherman carry position. Mason struggled down to her feet as she stood Taylor and lifted her up as she delivered the Encore Set (Torture Rack into Flatfliner)! Mason covered Taylor and picked up a pinfall win!
WINNER: Harper Mason via pinfall @ 17:51
Mason celebrated and raised both hands in victory as she looked around the Warehouse. She leaned into the ropes and smiled from ear to ear.
Gemma Foster: Harper Mason is looking mighty good as she heads to the Primetime Championship ladder match at Next Level: Revolution. Can she keep it up?
Martin West & Lacy Nelson Vs. Melody Slayton & Marilyn Lee Cross
“The Empire Strikes First” by Bad Religion started to play as the fans booed the duo of Nelson and West came out for the main event. West carried his Spartan Championship over his shoulder as he stood side by side with Nelson on the stage.
Gemma Foster: The Untethered Empire standing shoulder to shoulder as they head down to the ring for this match. I know Lacy Nelson has undergone a big personality change in recent months but I don’t think anyone predicted something like this.
Nelson tossed her leather jacket aside as she leaned through the middle and top ropes from inside the ring and put her arms out. West showed off the Spartan Championship behind her and the crowd quickly changed to cheers as Melody Slayton came out next. She ran out to the ramp and was itching to make her way down but waiting for her partner tonight. The crowd popped as Marilyn Lee Cross made her entrance and fired up the crowd with a big flex.
Scott Parker: It’s a unique pairing. Cross and Slayton are both climbing the ladder and want the EW World Championship so you’d have to think at some point they’re going to have to face off.
Gemma Foster: Yeah but if they can get rid of Nelson and West, event for a bit, you MIGHT have a chance against the Emperor.
Nelson and West played games as to who was going to start things off and Nelson was set to go until Slayton stayed in the ring as the bell rang and West insisted he go first. The former Spartan Champion was ready to tango with the current Spartan Champion. Slayton walked right up to West and connected with a wicked chop to the chest that rang throughout the Warehouse. West came back with a hard forearm to the face and yelled at her to do it again. She listened and turned his chest bright red as he smirked at her. He lifted his fists and started to box with her and Slayton realized she made a mistake as the hard punches rang down as she tried to block all she could. He sent Slayton into the ropes and met her with a kitchen sink knee to the gut that flipped her inside out. West kept the attack on Slayton before she was able to hit him with an enziguri that gave her some life. She made a tag to Cross and she popped into the ring. She caught West with a pump kick to the chest. He fell back and Nelson tagged herself in and West stumbled right into Cross’ Mary Go Round (Discus Big Boot). Nelson jumped into the ring and hit a big German suplex on Cross.
Scott Parker: Great ring awareness by Nelson there.
Nelson knocked Slayton off the apron and ducked a lariat from Cross. She spun her around and landed a kick to the gut before delivering a double underhook powerbomb! Nelson went for a cover but Slayton was there to pull her off at one. The referee tried to get Slayton out of the ring as West and Nelson worked over Cross and Nelson tagged out when he turned back. Cross started to stand and fight back but was rocked with the Hand of God (Spinning Backfist). She hit the mat and West covered for a two before a kickout. West and Nelson tagged in and out as they worked over Cross for a bit before she started to battle back against West. West had looked for his Absolution (Rebound/Pendulum Lariat) but Cross countered with the Mary Go Round (Discus Big Boot)! Nelson entered the ring and was hit with Catch Your Breath (Striking Spear)! Cross, West, and Nelson were all down as the fans cheered on.
Scott Parker: Cross needs to make a tag here, Gemma!
Cross dove and made a tag to Slayton as she jumped into the ring and hit Nelson with This Magic Moment (V Trigger)! West started to stand but was hit with the Full Effect 2.0 (Superkick*, followed by a Shining Wizard)! Slayton went into a cover on West but he kicked out at two.
Gemma Foster: So close, Scott!
Slayton started to pull West up and he dropped and connected with a jawbreaker that dazed Slayton. West made a tag to Nelson who jumped into the ring and hit a powerslam on a charging Slayton. Slayton crawled into a corner and Nelson slapped her hip and butt before rocking Slayton with Thunderstruck (Corner Hip Attack)! Nelson pulled Slayton out of the corner and up to her feet. She started to set up for the Byline (Canadian Destroyer) but Cross had jumped into the ring and hit a running pump kick to Nelson! Cross was fired up but was rocked with the Come-To-Jesus Moment (Haymaker Punch) from West as he had gotten into the ring. Cross rolled out of the ring and Slayton was up. She jumped up and spiked West with the Sonic Rainboom (Poisonrana)! She turned to Nelson who rocked her with a superkick!
Gemma Foster: Damn it!
Nelson pulled Slayton up and Slayton slapped the taste right out of her mouth. The crowd roared with a big cheer. Slayton looked for This Magic Moment and connected! Both competitors were moving slow and Slayton looked for another but ate another superkick! Slayton staggered to her feet and rocked Nelson with a big headbutt. West and Cross were battling their way up the ramp and then into the crowd as the fans cheered it on. Inside the ring, Slayton went to the well once again for This Magic Moment but Nelson countered into a roll up and picked up a shock pinfall for three!
WINNERS: Martin West & Lacy Nelson via pinfall @ 19:34
Slayton immediately tossed her head back in disbelief as Nelson rolled out of the ring and waved at her. Nelson roared as she as West had made his way back to her and Cross checked on Slayton in the middle of the ring. The Untethered Empire stood tall at the top of the ramp as we ended the show.
Gemma Foster: When Lacy Nelson came out I think all of us expected her to challenge Daniel Daemon for the World Championship, not superkick Melody Slayton and side with the Untethered Emperor and his new Empire.
We see a clip of Nelson talking on the last episode of Hype saying, “History likes to repeat itself” before superkicking Slayton before the trio of herself, West, and Daemon were run off eventually by FM Young and Marilyn Lee Cross.
Scott Parker: West and Nelson team up tonight against Slayton and Marilyn Lee Cross in our main event. Also tonight, we’ll see the debut of an amateur wrestling champion in Jenna Jillian Walker as she takes on the returning Gio DeLuca.
Gemma Foster: I can’t wait to see Harper Mason in her third match here in Empire Wrestling as she takes on Limitless Wrestling’s Emerald City Champion and former EW Tag Team Champion, Kayla Taylor. Mason has been impressive but Taylor has been on another level over at Limitless if you haven’t been keeping up.
Hanako Vs. Harper Blake
Scott Parker: Starting off with what should be a fun match, Gemma. We know that Hanako is one of two people currently scheduled for what will be a ladder match to determine a new Primetime Champion at Next Level: Revolution on June 24th.
Hanako was out first as the fans gave her a cheer while she waved to the fans in the Warehouse. She ran the ropes and stretched before Blake was out next. Harper Blake entered the ring and offered her hand as the fans gave a clap for them shaking hands before the match. Blake and Hanako locked up and Hanako quickly tried to flip Blake down with an armdrag but Blake spun and flipped Hanako down with a hip toss. Hanako rolled forward and sprung back up to her feet. Hanako ran into a forearm smash from Blake but then came right back with a chop to her chest. Hanako stepped up and took Blake down with a headscissors take down and got back to her feet. Blake ran at Hanako and was flipped up and over the top rope to the apron. Hanako springboarded off the middle ropes and hit Blake with a dropkick to send her down to the floor! Hanako was fired up and looked out at Blake. She ran the ropes and went up and over with a tope con hilo! Hanako quickly grabbed Blake and pulled her up before rolling her into the ring and slid inside. She went into a cover and got two before Blake kicked out.
Gemma Foster: Hanako throwing her body around like it’s a weapon!
Hanako started to make her way to the top rope but Blake clubbed her from behind. Blake climbed to the second rope and hit a belly to back suplex! Blake climbed to her feet as Hanako slowly got to hers. Hanako got to her feet and swung but Blake ducked it and locked in a double chickenwing before lifting her up and dropping her face first with a facebuster. Blake rolled Hanako over into a cover and Hanako kicked out at two. Blake quickly readied herself and came off the ropes before hitting Future Sight (V-Trigger)! Blake pulled Hanako up and delivered a bridging fisherman’s suplex for a cover, just getting two before Hanako kicked out again.
Scott Parker: Hanako toughing it out despite that vicious knee to the head.
Blake started to pull Hanako up who tried to pull her down for a small package attempt which got a two count before Blake just kicked out in time. Hanako went into a victory roll and got another close two count. Hanako grabbed Blake and delivered her Fūkiri (Reverse Ddt into facebuster)! Hanako hooked both legs for a cover and was shocked when Blake kicked out. Hanako looked around and looked over at the corner. She made her way to the top and looked for a moonsault but Blake got her knees up into the gut! Hanako grabbed at her ribs and Blake stood before hitting another Future Sight! Blake pulled Hanako right up and delivered a falcon arrow and covered, picking up a three count!
WINNER: Harper Blake via pinfall @ 13:44
After the match, the two shook hands in the middle of the ring as the fans cheered.
Scott Parker: Harper Blake with a big, impressive win here tonight. She’s come up short on a couple occasions for the Primetime Championship so you have to believe she’s gunning for another shot with a win tonight.
Heart to Heart
The camera cuts to the locker room backstage, where Melody Slayton is wrapping her wrists in preparation for tonight’s tag team match. There is a knock at the door.
Melody Slayton: Come in!
The door opens and the crowd pops as former EW competitor - and Melody’s father - David Slayton enters the room.
Melody Slayton: Dad!
Melody bounces to her feet and wraps up her father in a tight hug.
David Slayton: Hey, kiddo. How’s things?
Melody plops back down on the locker room bench and continues wrapping her wrist tape.
Melody Slayton: Well, prom with Callie last night was great. I’ve got this keeping me company -
She reaches over to her backpack and gently pats the BWF World Championship resting next to it.
Melody Slayton: - and tonight, I have a chance to take out some of my Empire-related aggression on Daniel Daemon’s top two toady footstools. So all in all, I can’t complain!
David chuckles.
David Slayton: Great. I caught the last episode of Hype and I gotta say, you really nailed that whole promo against Daemon. I totally believed every word you were saying.
Melody pauses mid-wrap and glances up at her dad.
Melody Slayton: …well, of course you liked it. You wrote it. All I did was read it and try to look ferocious.
A pause.
Melody Slayton: I feel like I came across more… constipated than filled with righteous anger.
David laughs.
David Slayton: No, it came across great. So, next time, I’m thinking you -
Melody quickly puts a hand up, cutting her father off.
Melody Slayton: Whoa, whoa, whoa. Um… look, Dad, you know I appreciate you helping me out. You’ve got decades of experience in this business and nine World Titles to your name. But…
She pauses for a moment, thinking over her next words carefully.
Melody Slayton: …I don’t think the whole “angry wrestler” thing is for me. It just felt so uncharacteristic, you know? So rehearsed. That’s not what I’m all about! I’m happy! I’m bubbly! I mean, my Twitter account literally says I’m relentlessly optimistic! The last thing I want is to become just another cookie-cutter by-the-numbers wrestler without a speck of originality to their name!
A very awkward pause, as Melody blushes and lowers her head.
Melody Slayton: …um, no offense or anything.
After a moment, she dares to look up at her father. Perhaps expecting disappointment or pain, she is instead surprised to find him smirking.
David Slayton: Yeah. I mean, believe me, I know. You’re one of a kind, kiddo. None of this is news to me.
He sits down next to Melody and puts his arm around her. She leans her head into his shoulder as he continues.
David Slayton: I know the stuff I suggested you say two weeks ago, not really your style. It was always mine. I just thought I could help you show off that killer edge you need against someone like Danny.
He pauses as he leans back, deep in thought.
David Slayton: But there’s something else I didn’t take into account when I plotted all this out. I threw all the “killer edge” I had at Dan back when I was in Empire the last time he was Champion, and it wasn’t enough to get the job done. It was stupid of me to think you could defeat him using the same methods that failed me years ago. The truth is…
David stands up, clearing his throat.
David Slayton: …you’re everything I wasn’t in this business. You’re starry-eyed. Hopeful. Determined. God damn, kiddo, you inspire the hell out of me. In just over a year, you managed to win the one World Title that eluded me my entire career, and you beat two of Empire Wrestling’s greatest Champions to do it.
A beat.
David Slayton: Maybe being the “stereotypical wrestler” worked for me, but I didn’t have half the raw talent you do, and I mean that with every fiber of my being. What you need to do now is continue doing what already won you two World Championships - just be yourself.
He grins.
David Slayton: That’s how you beat Martin West and Lacy Nelson tonight. And that’s how you beat Daniel Daemon and become a two-time Empire Wrestling World Champion. And THIS time… don’t let anyone cash in on you, eh?
Melody giggles as she stands up and hugs her Dad again.
Melody Slayton: One step at a time, Dad. Daemon’s time will come, don’t worry about that. Someday, he’s gonna be standing across the ring from me, that title is gonna be on the line, and he won’t realize it then, but his title reign ends the moment that bell rings. But tonight, my entire focus is on Martin and Lacy. Marilyn and I have some business to take care of, and take care of it we will.
David Slayton: Oh oh oh, can I say it?
Melody laughs harder.
Melody Slayton: Please do!
He loudly clears his throat.
David Slayton: Because you ALWAYS BET ON BLUE!
Melody snaps at her father, points and winks playfully.
Melody Slayton: Now you’re gettin’ it!
Father and daughter both laugh and share another hug before he leaves Melody to continue preparing. Her eyes glance over to the BWF World Title and she sighs gently.
Melody Slayton: Daemon’s never gonna see me coming.
A pause.
Melody Slayton: They never do.
She smirks to herself, then resumes wrapping her wrist tape as the camera fades back to ringside.
Jenna Jillian Walker Vs. Gio DeLuca
Gio DeLuca: You know what I hate?
The crowd begins to boo as Gio DeLuca comes out for his shtick before the next match as he walked to the ring.
Gio DeLuca: I’ve been gone for a little bit now and I get booked in my return match yet everyone is talkin’ about this amateur making her debut. ERRRR. Wrong, sweetheart. Tonight is about Gio. Come on down and catch a fist to ya mouth.
The crowd gave Jenna Jillian Walker a warm welcome as she came out to the stage. She hit the fans with a quick pose on the ramp and made her way into the ring.
Gemma Foster: Walker is a two time state champion in high school and also saw some success in Junior college. She’s making her Empire Wrestling debut tonight and the young talent in EW right now is looking bright!
DeLuca danced around Walker as she readied herself. He lunged at Walker but she grabbed him and slammed him to the mat with ease. DeLuca got back to his feet and landed a kick to the gut. He ran the ropes and was bounced off the mat with a spinebuster. Walker quickly moved into a single leg crab and worked on his knee. He started to struggle free and Walker slipped to the front and locked in an arm lock and wrenched his arm behind DeLuca’s back. DeLuca was able to get to the ropes and caused a break. The two locked back up and Walker tried to set up for a neckbreaker but DeLuca got free and popped her in the back of the head with a forearm. He pulled Walker in for a bulldog and started to run but she countered into a belly to back suplex. DeLuca hit the mat and rolled to his feet before getting taken back down with a German suplex. Walker pulled him up and delivered a bridging northern lights suplex for a two count before he kicked out.
Gemma Foster: Walker with a close two count there but DeLuca is just able to get his shoulders up in time.
DeLuca put his fists up for a fight and swung but missed as Walker drove her knee into his gut. She backed up and DeLuca charged wildly right into All the Way Up (Pop-up Powerbomb)! Walker quickly positioned DeLuca and locked in her Dismantle (Fujiwara Armbar) and forced DeLuca to tap out.
WINNER: Jenna Jillian Walker via submission @ 8:09
Walker had her hand raised in victory as she celebrated her first win in an EW ring.
Sermons on the Subjects of Gold and Pride
We’re treated to a pre-taped segment with FM Young in an undisclosed location as she has something on her mind.
“Here we are again, I never thought of myself as one for sermons, but apparently the actual religious nuts in the building feel the need to keep making me explain this shit to the adults. Which is what I feel like, the old, tired, adult. I get it, Untethered Emperor, I’m not going to be one to deny the number that Daniel Daemon has done to me over the years. That guy is a force of nature, but right now? His nature is pain. Just, pure heartbreak. It’s something I can certainly sympathize with, cause lord knows I was in an Irish Cult for years…This should go some way into explaining my sheer frustration with this whole shit show. The man’s a monster fueled by his turmoil and I know him well enough to suspect there’s a woman and a family in the ashes.”
“Not to say that Daniel hasn’t always been this driven, but I once knew a guy who wanted to leave things better than he had them. So there’s definitely a thorn in his paw this time and Martin? The good and steadfast Padre, now twisted right into his sacramental wine, washing it down with the violence. Gods, that’s tempting, is it not? I get it, and I can’t really say anything about Lacy, because I caused that mess…So I suppose it’s all in the reaping there. But this? The public temper tantrums? I’m here to work. I’m here to do the thing I fucking love to do, to the point that I’ve tried and failed to leave, multiple times. But all of them? They sit there, proclaim greatness and do nothing but take their heartbreak and tempers out on others.”
“Now, I want to leave things better than I found them. I have no idea how long this ride lasts, if I flame out, if I get injured. I’m here to make my impact known while I can and to maybe make sure the future of EW is in safe hands too. I’m not here to babysit violent children and even more violent old men going through a mid-life crisis. I’m not here to take out my pain on everyone else. Again. I. Am. Here. To. Work. Let me rewind for a moment, and tell all of you, just how important Empire Wrestling and David Blazenwing have been to my career. In a lot of ways I owe everything I am to BWF and EW. Everything. I also owe so much to Mari, who was with me through a lot and got me through even more. Pip is the only person who remembers my birthday on the day.”
“So when it comes to paying that back for them? As far as I’m concerned, the kids have first dibs on the world title. It’s just their right, don’t get me wrong, I’ll take whatever golden opportunity I can get. That never changes. Me, the last daughter of Agiad, a Spartan KING, I’ll take that Spartan Championship off of Marty. If that’s how this goes. But if Melody and Mari are fighting an uphill battle? Well, me hating bullies hasn’t changed either.”
“Yeah, I’m old, I’m tired and sick of the immature insanity on display. But that means you’re getting the toughest piece of shoe leather, you can all wear yourselves out trying to kick my ass. I’ll stand by the youngins, I guess pun intended? I’m going to work on supporting them. Because this? My career. It has gotta end for me. Eventually. The Empire Championship, World, heavyweight. Whatever it is…It’s always been my bookend. The period on my sentence. But right now? I’m willing to let life circle back around. I like records. I like setting the standard. I will chase other titles, and make other marks in Empire. I’m not ready to be done, my bookend can wait. Mari, and Melody, I care about them both and both of them are damn good strong shoulders for this business to go on. I’m not worried, but I am going to make some fuckin memories.”
Kaito Hirano Vs. Josh Goldstein
Scott Parker: Ronnie North and Jason Evans have been banned from ringside for this one as Tom Carr wants to see these two go at it as we look towards the next challenge for Goldstein and North.
Goldstein came to the ring first with a huge pop from the fans as one of EW’s fan favorites came to the ring. He wore his Tag Team Championship around his waist and jumped onto the apron and then climbed up a turnbuckle from the outside and jumped down to the mat. Kaito Hirano stood on the stage and looked around as the fans booed. He got into the ring and quickly looked to attack Goldstein as the bell rang. A series of kicks from Hirano opened things up before he rocked Goldstein with an uppercut. He looked for a Blue Thunder Bomb early but Goldstein fought back with an elbow to the head and was able to get separation. Goldstein turned and flipped Hirano to the mat with a snap suplex and quickly pulled him back up to his feet. He slapped Hirano on the chest and grabbed him by the hand. Goldstein ran up the turnbuckle and delivered the Sure Shot (Rope Walk Armdrag). Goldstein popped up to his feet and posed for the fans as they cheered him on.
Gemma Foster: The fans absolutely love Josh Goldstein and the energy he brings to the Warehouse.
Hirano pulled himself to his feet using the ropes and caught Goldstein as he looked for a running crossbody. Hirano lifted Goldstein to his shoulders and wanted his Oyasumi [Goodnight] (Fireman's Carry Overhead Kick) but Goldstein was able to counter into a sunset flip! He covered but barely got a two before Hirano kicked out. Hirano quickly rolled out of the ring and tried to create some space between the two. Goldstein followed after him and grabbed him from behind. Hirano slipped behind him and hit a dragon suplex on the floor outside!
Scott Parker: Goldstein just hit hard!
Hirano rolled in and out of the ring to reset the count and pulled Goldstein up. He tried to send Goldstein into the steps on the outside but Goldstein jumped over them and rolled to his feet. Hirano ran and launched himself off the steps but Goldstein ducked him as Hirano crashed and burned off a crossbody attempt and to the timekeeper's area. Goldstein reached over the wall to grab Hirano and ate the ring bell to the face as the fans booed!
Gemma Foster: Kaito Hirano just CLOCKED Goldstein with the bell and this one is going to be over as the referee is calling the match.
WINNER: Josh Goldstein via DQ @ 14:11
Hirano stood over Goldstein and started to stomp at him and shouted at him in Japanese. Ronnie North came rushing out to save his partner as Hirano jumped into the crowd as he made his exit.
Scott Parker: I think Kaito Hirano was more interested in sending a message than he was winning this match tonight.
Put it on Red
We see Lacy Nelson sitting in her locker room as she looks down at the ground.
Lacy Nelson: Rawr. Listen to the little songbird sing. She wants to slap the color right out of my hair. It’s cute to see you try to act like your daddy, Mel. You’re right, it doesn’t suit you. What I did two weeks ago wasn’t personal, kiddo. You actually seem really sweet but since day one I’ve been telling all of you. I make the headlines. I came to Empire Wrestling from across the country looking to make a name for myself in this business and over the last year or so I have lost an edge. Siding with Daniel Daemon and joining the Untethered Empire isn’t about worshiping someone or being brainwashed into following someone into some sort of personal war.
Lacy finally looks up and stares into the camera.
Lacy Nelson: I aligned myself with Daniel Daemon because I believe that iron sharpens iron. I’ve lost an edge that I need to figure out how to get back and he’s offered to help me find it. Lacy Nelson and Daniel Daemon? That’s a goddamn headline.
She runs her fingers through her hair and she scoffs.
Lacy Nelson: It doesn’t matter who had been in the ring at Hype, they were getting kicked. You just happened to be in the wrong place at the wrong time, Melly. Then, of course, FM had to interject herself into things like she owed you and your pops something. Marilyn Lee Cross? My guess is that she wants a piece of Daemon’s World Championship too. You’ll all fall to the Untethered Emperor.
Lacy finally stands and grabs her leather jacket out of her locker and swings it over her shoulder.
Lacy Nelson: Tonight I’m going to go out there with Martin and we’re going to show the world that you should never underestimate us. We’re going to show the world that the Untethered Empire has some of the best talent in professional wrestling tonight. Tonight? I write another headline.
Kayla Taylor Vs. Harper Mason
Kayla Taylor entered the Warehouse and the ring ready for this upcoming match. The fans cheered on Harper Mason as she came out.
Gemma Foster: Harper Mason has been impressive here in her short EW run so far. Let’s see how she can fair against a veteran like Kayla Taylor.
The two moved around the ring and circled each other before locking up in a traditional collar and elbow tie up. Mason kicked at the leg of Taylor and backed her into the ropes. The two fought and spun along the ropes before the referee forced a break. Taylor poked the eyes of Mason as the fans booed and the referee gave her a warning. Taylor took Mason down with a jumping neckbreaker and rolled into a sleeper hold. Mason was able to fight her way to her feet eventually and pushed Taylor off. Taylor charged and ran into a clothesline. Taylor bounced up and was flipped backwards with a back drop. Mason pulled Taylor up to her feet and whipped her into the corner. Mason hit a big corner clothesline and was fired up. She ran to the far side and came rushing right back for another but Taylor lifted her up and over the top rope. Mason quickly set and flipped into the ring with the Masonline Special (Buckshot Lariat)!
Scott Parker: Taylor was just flipped inside out with a shot like that!
Mason went into a cover but Taylor kicked out and got to her feet. Both competitors got to their feet and Mason ducked an incoming blow and grabbed Taylor. She looked for a turnbuckle assisted tornado DDT but Taylor pushed her off and Mason landed face first on the mat. She started to stand but ate Taylor’s Plan A (Shining Wizard)! Taylor went into a cover, just barely getting to. Taylor stayed right on Mason with right hands and eventually pulled her to her feet. Taylor put her opponent into position for her Atonement (Spin Sit-out Powerbomb) and lifted her up but Mason countered into a hurricanrana into a pinfall attempt that got two! Both competitors scurried to their feet quickly and Mason hit a big discus elbow to the face.
Gemma Foster: Kayla Taylor is reeling after that shot!
Taylor came back with a right hand but Mason popped her with a hard uppercut in response. Taylor ducked an incoming lariat and had Mason set up for Broadway Lights (Cross Rhodes)! Mason was able to turn herself and delivered a northern lights suplex. Mason rolled Taylor to her feet and delivered Into The Earth (Ripcord Rolling Elbow). Mason was fired up and started to pull Taylor up by her arm.
Scott Parker: She might be thinking Crowd Killer here.
Mason was in fact thinking Crowd Killer (Ripcord Cutter) but Taylor had it scouted and pushed Mason into the ropes. Taylor scooped Mason and dropped her into a backbreaker and showed off some incredible power as she stood and lifted her into a fisherman carry position. Mason struggled down to her feet as she stood Taylor and lifted her up as she delivered the Encore Set (Torture Rack into Flatfliner)! Mason covered Taylor and picked up a pinfall win!
WINNER: Harper Mason via pinfall @ 17:51
Mason celebrated and raised both hands in victory as she looked around the Warehouse. She leaned into the ropes and smiled from ear to ear.
Gemma Foster: Harper Mason is looking mighty good as she heads to the Primetime Championship ladder match at Next Level: Revolution. Can she keep it up?
Martin West & Lacy Nelson Vs. Melody Slayton & Marilyn Lee Cross
“The Empire Strikes First” by Bad Religion started to play as the fans booed the duo of Nelson and West came out for the main event. West carried his Spartan Championship over his shoulder as he stood side by side with Nelson on the stage.
Gemma Foster: The Untethered Empire standing shoulder to shoulder as they head down to the ring for this match. I know Lacy Nelson has undergone a big personality change in recent months but I don’t think anyone predicted something like this.
Nelson tossed her leather jacket aside as she leaned through the middle and top ropes from inside the ring and put her arms out. West showed off the Spartan Championship behind her and the crowd quickly changed to cheers as Melody Slayton came out next. She ran out to the ramp and was itching to make her way down but waiting for her partner tonight. The crowd popped as Marilyn Lee Cross made her entrance and fired up the crowd with a big flex.
Scott Parker: It’s a unique pairing. Cross and Slayton are both climbing the ladder and want the EW World Championship so you’d have to think at some point they’re going to have to face off.
Gemma Foster: Yeah but if they can get rid of Nelson and West, event for a bit, you MIGHT have a chance against the Emperor.
Nelson and West played games as to who was going to start things off and Nelson was set to go until Slayton stayed in the ring as the bell rang and West insisted he go first. The former Spartan Champion was ready to tango with the current Spartan Champion. Slayton walked right up to West and connected with a wicked chop to the chest that rang throughout the Warehouse. West came back with a hard forearm to the face and yelled at her to do it again. She listened and turned his chest bright red as he smirked at her. He lifted his fists and started to box with her and Slayton realized she made a mistake as the hard punches rang down as she tried to block all she could. He sent Slayton into the ropes and met her with a kitchen sink knee to the gut that flipped her inside out. West kept the attack on Slayton before she was able to hit him with an enziguri that gave her some life. She made a tag to Cross and she popped into the ring. She caught West with a pump kick to the chest. He fell back and Nelson tagged herself in and West stumbled right into Cross’ Mary Go Round (Discus Big Boot). Nelson jumped into the ring and hit a big German suplex on Cross.
Scott Parker: Great ring awareness by Nelson there.
Nelson knocked Slayton off the apron and ducked a lariat from Cross. She spun her around and landed a kick to the gut before delivering a double underhook powerbomb! Nelson went for a cover but Slayton was there to pull her off at one. The referee tried to get Slayton out of the ring as West and Nelson worked over Cross and Nelson tagged out when he turned back. Cross started to stand and fight back but was rocked with the Hand of God (Spinning Backfist). She hit the mat and West covered for a two before a kickout. West and Nelson tagged in and out as they worked over Cross for a bit before she started to battle back against West. West had looked for his Absolution (Rebound/Pendulum Lariat) but Cross countered with the Mary Go Round (Discus Big Boot)! Nelson entered the ring and was hit with Catch Your Breath (Striking Spear)! Cross, West, and Nelson were all down as the fans cheered on.
Scott Parker: Cross needs to make a tag here, Gemma!
Cross dove and made a tag to Slayton as she jumped into the ring and hit Nelson with This Magic Moment (V Trigger)! West started to stand but was hit with the Full Effect 2.0 (Superkick*, followed by a Shining Wizard)! Slayton went into a cover on West but he kicked out at two.
Gemma Foster: So close, Scott!
Slayton started to pull West up and he dropped and connected with a jawbreaker that dazed Slayton. West made a tag to Nelson who jumped into the ring and hit a powerslam on a charging Slayton. Slayton crawled into a corner and Nelson slapped her hip and butt before rocking Slayton with Thunderstruck (Corner Hip Attack)! Nelson pulled Slayton out of the corner and up to her feet. She started to set up for the Byline (Canadian Destroyer) but Cross had jumped into the ring and hit a running pump kick to Nelson! Cross was fired up but was rocked with the Come-To-Jesus Moment (Haymaker Punch) from West as he had gotten into the ring. Cross rolled out of the ring and Slayton was up. She jumped up and spiked West with the Sonic Rainboom (Poisonrana)! She turned to Nelson who rocked her with a superkick!
Gemma Foster: Damn it!
Nelson pulled Slayton up and Slayton slapped the taste right out of her mouth. The crowd roared with a big cheer. Slayton looked for This Magic Moment and connected! Both competitors were moving slow and Slayton looked for another but ate another superkick! Slayton staggered to her feet and rocked Nelson with a big headbutt. West and Cross were battling their way up the ramp and then into the crowd as the fans cheered it on. Inside the ring, Slayton went to the well once again for This Magic Moment but Nelson countered into a roll up and picked up a shock pinfall for three!
WINNERS: Martin West & Lacy Nelson via pinfall @ 19:34
Slayton immediately tossed her head back in disbelief as Nelson rolled out of the ring and waved at her. Nelson roared as she as West had made his way back to her and Cross checked on Slayton in the middle of the ring. The Untethered Empire stood tall at the top of the ramp as we ended the show.