Post by Admin on Jul 12, 2018 0:48:48 GMT -5
Episode #1 - July 11, 2018
The scene opens outside the EW Warehouse. Approaching the building is Bailey Mayhew, her right hand carrying her luggage, her left hand carrying a Slurpee, it is 7/11 day afterall. She stops, and soaks this moment in.
Bailey Mayhew: Twenty-one months. Almost two years ago was the last time I stepped foot in this building. I remember it like it was yesterday. It was a Triple Threat Match against Chris Stevens and Emperor Ian. It was a first round match in a Primetime Championship Contender’s Tournament. I won. I advanced in the tournament. However, the tournament didn’t advance. EW shut down right after that.
She takes a sip from the Slurpee.
Bailey Mayhew: I’m sure a lot of people drive by this remodeled warehouse and don’t realize what it is. To them it’s probably just another building. They probably don’t realize what magical moments have happened in here. It’s not just another building. It’s a dream factory. This building made me the person I am today. This building is coated in my blood, sweat, and tears.
She takes a moment to realize what she just said.
Bailey Mayhew: Okay, that sounded really gross when I said it out loud, it was much better in my head. You know what I’m trying to say. Home is where the heart is, and my heart is in Empire Wrestling. This building is my home.
She finishes the Slurpee and tosses the empty cup in a nearby trash can.
Bailey Mayhew: I was playing Minecraft when I heard EW was returning. I stopped everything I was doing and immediately emailed them. I had to come back here. I couldn’t not. After a few emails back and forth and confirming my re-hire to EW, I went back to Minecraft. I was in an abandoned mineshaft and was killed by cave spiders. I was level 34 and was getting ready to do some enchanting and had to regain all my experience. That’s kind of how it is right now. I was moving up the Primetime Championship ladder, and now, I have to start all over. But you know, that’s okay! That’s kind of one of the best parts about Minecraft; starting over, building a new world. Tonight, I start building a new Empire. I’ll just keep building up wins, and sooner or later, I’ll have a nice piece of gold armor in the form of a championship around my waist. It all begins as soon as I place my foot on the floor of this building.
Bailey further approaches the “Dream Factory” that is the EW Warehouse. She takes a deep breath, opens the door, and steps inside.
The crowd is roaring as we pan around the Empire Wrestling Warehouse. We cut to ringside where we’re joined by long-time EW announcer Scott Parker.
Scott Parker: Hello everyone! Empire Wrestling is back in action. This is HYPE! My name is Scott Parker and I’m joined by the lovely Gemma Foster and we’re live from the Empire Wrestling Warehouse in Queens, New York.
Gemma Foster: It’s great to be back, Scott. This is a new era of Empire Wrestling and there’s a lot of buzz coming into it.
Scott Parker: I think buzz is an understatement. There’s a few things different this time around though. We know that overseeing EW is a group that has remained anonymous. I also have it on good authority that the championships in EW have been vacated since the last Animosity show. That means both the EW Heavyweight Championship and the Primetime Championship are vacated as of October 12th, 2016.
Gemma Foster: Clean slate!
Earlier Today
Mike Fright
Casey Grey walks into the locker room. She looks around for a minute and finds Alicia Monroe sitting on a bench, elbows on her knees and head in her hands. Casey sits beside her.
Casey Grey: Hey. What’s wrong?
Alicia Monroe: I don’t know. I mean, I didn’t think I would be this nervous tonight. I feel like I’m already choking…like my neck is in a vice or something.
Alicia sits up and places a hand on her stomach.
Alicia Monroe: Damnable butterflies…I was fine until I got dressed in this. I don’t know if I can-
Casey Grey: Don’t try for any submissions.
Alicia looks at Casey with a confused expression. Casey has a neutral expression on her face.
Casey Grey: It’s a triple threat match. The third person will just break it up and it’s wasted energy.
Alicia Monroe: What does that have to do with-
Casey Grey: Billy Way is nuts. Watch him. He’s a former champion and he’s dangerous and unpredictable.
Alicia Monroe: I don’t think-
Casey Grey: As bad as Billy is, dealing with Katie is worse. Looking at her resume is enough to make anyone’s stomach do backflips. And on top of that, she’s married to one of the greatest wrestlers I’ve ever seen. You can bet she’s just dyin’ to get in the ring right now. She’s got a plan and it’s gonna be flawless. It’s not the best situation to be in for your first match, Leesha.
Alicia Monroe: Wow. Thank you, Casey. I feel just peachy, now. How is that supposed to help me?
Casey Grey: It’s not, really. All I’m saying is that you have every right to be nervous. Everyone’s nervous for their first match. You think I went out there cool and calm? No. I just knew I was going to humiliate myself.
Casey pats Alicia on the back.
Casey Grey: We’ve been trainin’ for weeks. You’ll do fine. True, the first time is a little stressful, but after tonight’s match you’ll be able to relax a bit and it gets easier.
Alicia Monroe: Oh, so it’s like losing your virginity.
Casey shakes her head and rolls her eyes. Alicia shrugs.
Casey Grey: Yeah. Sure. I guess. All right, look. I’m trying to help you deal with this but you went somewhere really awkward so…I’m just gonna leave now. I’ll wait at the ramp to walk out with you.
Casey stands up and walks out of the frame. Alicia sits for a few more moments and then, with an audible sigh, stands and follows her as we cut away.
Alicia Monroe Vs. Billy Way Vs. Katie Shelley
Scott Parker: And here comes the rookie Alicia Monroe. She’s the cousin of former EW Primetime Champion Casey Grey.
Gemma Foster: Speaking of Casey, it looks like she’s going to join her cousin ringside tonight. I know that Casey has been training her leading up to the show tonight.
Monroe stood in the ring and shook of the nerves as Billy Way made his way to the ring next. Grey stood on the outside and cheered Monroe on. The crowd gave him some boos as he soaked them all in. The former EW Heavyweight Champion circled the ring to try and keep Monroe uneased. It wasn’t long before the crowd popped as Katie Shelley stepped out from the curtain, ready for action. She climbed into the ring and briefly shook hands with Monroe. Way jumped into the ring and the bell sounded to kick things off.
Way tried to talk to Monroe and offered to team up against Shelley. Monroe stood her ground and then Way went over to Shelley and offered the same thing. Shelley shook her head and Way began to walk back over to Monroe but turned and clocked Shelley with a cheapshot. Shelley hit the mat and bounced right back up and was hit with a swinging neckbreaker from Way. Way stood and turned to Monroe. Monroe took a deep breath and charged before ducking under a clothesline. She came back off the ropes and hit a running knee strike to the face of Way that got a big pop from the crowd. Monroe jumped to her feet in excitement and pulled Way up with her. She drove a knee into his gut before Shelley came flying off the top ropes with a double dropkick. Shelley was fired up and took to the offensive against both Monroe and Way.
Gemma Foster: Katie Shelley is a firecracker here tonight! She’s been out of action for so long she’s come out guns ablaze.
Scott Parker: It’s momma power!
Way had rolled out of the ring to regroup as Shelley kept laying into Monroe. Monroe started to battle back but was blasted with a running big boot from Way. Grey shouted to her cousin, encouraging her to get up. Way turned to Shelley and hit her with the Billion Dollar Kick (Roundhouse Kick) and rolled into a cover but could only get a two count fall. Way pulled Shelley to her feet and tossed her into the corner. He then grabbed Monroe and went to send her into the same corner as Shelley but she reversed it. Way rammed into Shelley and staggered out of the corner before Monroe hit him with the Freebird (Running Bulldog). Monroe pushed Shelley out of the corner and climbed to the top ropes and hit Way with the White Lightning (Moonsault). Before she could go into the cover, Shelley pulled her up and tossed her out of the ring. Grey checked on her cousin but didn’t get involved. Shelley rushed to the top ropes and hit her HM02 (Swanton Bomb) and covered for the pinfall before Monroe could get back in to break it up.
WINNER: “Stutterfly” Katie Shelley, via pinfall @ 9:13
Scott Parker: Big win here for Katie Shelley.
Shelley stands and catches her breath as Monroe had just rolled back into the ring. Shelley pulled her up and shook her hand again before heading to the back.
The Long Shot
We open with a backstage selfie video of Hailey Harris as she walks through the arena. Harris looks highly annoyed. Clad in sunglasses, a gray hoodie covering a hot pink corset with lace, Harris looks into her camera as she walks.
Hailey Harris: Truthfully, I didn't want to have to say this, but it looks like I don't have a choice. Is WHOEVER is in charge of this place a blithering idiot? I mean, here I am, a certified icon in the wrestling world, building myself up, making a huge name for myself, and my phone, THIS phone, has been blowing up with calls to sign me, the hottest free agent, literally, in every sense of the word, to a contract, and yet I came here, to EW, because those other places, I already conquered them, or bottom line, they don't deserve me.
Harris sighs.
Hailey Harris: And yet the first order of business from whoever this brainless moron is in charge is to book me against some stupid little chica who thinks she's just going to waltz back into this place like that's destiny probably, like it's supposed to happen. Well, what you didn't count on, you piece of Mexican trash, is Hailey Harris, the woman who now that she is here, gracing you all with her presence IS Empire Wrestling as far as I'm concerned, and come time for my beating of your ass, as far as the fans are concerned. I didn't come here to be disrespected, oh no. I came here to conquer. I came here to remind the wrestling world that I'm Hailey Harris, and damn right I'm confident, because I have every right to be. That name, "Long Shot" that's a less than subtle poke to all those idiots who thought I wouldn't make it. Well here I am, and tonight, Miss Argentina, Miss "Ooh Let's Bring The Heat" (gag), you're going to be at the bottom of my boot, where garbage like you belongs! Harris OUT!
Takeover, Break’s Over
Somewhere backstage, we see Zoey Mathews-Mitchell slowly pacing back and forth. She has her trusty kendo stick against her shoulder and is wearing her hooded vest and neoprene mask. She eventually faces the camera.
Zoey Mathews-Mitchell: For the unaware, I am Zoey Mathews-Mitchell. I am the link between the Mathews and Mitchell families, if you couldn’t deduce that by my excessively long name. I’ve held titles everywhere I’ve been. Three times a Women’s Champion, two times a Tag Team Champion. To put it frankly, I don’t intend on leaving Empire Wrestling empty handed.
She takes a look at her kendo stick sidekick and twirls it once, before resting it back against her shoulder.
Zoey Mathews-Mitchell: In AXW, I used to come out to entrance music that had the lyric, ‘I know how it feels to have nothing left to lose.’ – and that is one hundred percent the truth. I’ve been to the very bottom. I have been to war and lost. I have physical scars that I’m taking to my grave, most of them from barbed wire and fire – both of which happened in the same damn match might I add. I am willing to go as far as I can. I’ll compete in a traditional wrestling match, I’ll compete in a Death Match. I embrace the extreme.
She pulls down her neoprene mask to expose her full face.
Zoey Mathews-Mitchell: The break’s over, and I’m here to take over.
Talia Areano Vs. Hailey Harris
The 'confident' Hailey Harris scoffed at the sight of her opponent before the bell rang. This was met with boos from the crowd who she turned around to mock a bit before turning back around to be met with a HUGE running dropkick from Talia that got the crowd out of their seats. Talia made the same mistake and played up to the cheering fans only to be caught off guard by a Snap DDT when she turned back around. Hailey was able to nail Talia with a Long Shot (Twist of Fate) and cover Talia for a pin which only got a two count.
Scott Parker: I thought that it might be all over right there. Both competitors giving it their all here tonight.
Hailey remained firmly in control for a good portion of the match, utilizing her speed and agility to keep up the pressure against Talia until Talia was able to finally strike back with a roundhouse kick that dropped Hailey on her ass, allowing Talia to follow up with a Rush Hour (Sliding Forearm Smash). The crowd was cheering loud as Talia waited for Hailey to rise and finally, Talia was able to hit Hailey with a standing Slice of Heaven (Sliced Bread #2) and get the cover for the 1...2...3!!!
WINNER: Talia Areano, via pinfall @ 8:31
Scott Parker: Big win for Talia here tonight!
As Real as it Gets
We open backstage, as we see Alex Silver finishes up a few push ups, getting that adrenaline flowing. Clad in a denim vest and silver trunks, Alex takes a breath and turns to the camera with a sly grin.
Alex Silver: I just have to say, first and foremost, that I'm damn glad to be back at this, at what I do, and do so damn well, and that's wrestling.
The crowd cheers, as Silver's expression turns to one of focus, one of determination.
Alex Silver: But that's all the pleasantries I plan on giving out tonight. Zoey, tonight, it really isn't nor will it be anything personal. I have done nothing but have respect for everything you and your family have done for this business, but tonight, tonight I have to make a point, and unfortunately you're going to be that medium for that message. You see, there seems to be this misconception that even after holding onto championship gold up north across the border for over 200 days that I have lost a step or two, but that just isn't true. If anything, the wrestling business cannot keep up with the fierce talent, the unbridled skill that is "The Wrestling Workhorse" Alex Silver.
An "Alex Silver" chant begins, as Silver nods, rubbing his chin.
Alex Silver: Truly, not that I give a damn about critics, but I do care about this business evolving, and right smack dab in the middle of this EW rebirth is where I want to be. Where I damn well deserve to be, so tonight, Zoey, I take my first step in getting to the front of the line, to become the leader of the pack once more, and respect or no respect, that first step is going to be putting a W in the column and going through you. That's not an idle threat. That is the way of Alex Silver, and that, is as real as it gets!
Silver runs his right hand through his hair and gives us a wink before walking off.
Alex Silver Vs. Zoey Mathews-Mitchell
Silver and Mathews-Mitchell circled each other and shared a few words before things got underway. Silver turned to the crowd and threw his hands out and pounded his chest for a big cheer. He turned back to Mathews-Mitchell and the two locked up. Mathews-Mitchell hit Silver with an European uppercut and he returned with a hard forearm to the face. Silver sent Mathews-Mitchell into the ropes and he ducked her incoming clothesline. Mathews-Mitchell grabbed Silver from behind but he took her down with a snapmare and locked in a headlock. Silver pulled her up looked for a swinging neckbreaker but Mathews-Mitchell pushed him away. She jumped up and planted Silver with a tornado DDT. Mathews-Mitchell stood beside Silver and hit a standing moonsault. She hooked a leg into a cover but just got two. Mathews-Mitchell pulled Silver up and tried for a suplex but Silver pushed her away and blasted her with a superkick. Mathews-Mitchell stumbled backwards and fell to a knee before taking another superkick. Silver pulled Mathews-Mitchell to her feet and she speared him through the ropes and they fell to the outside. The two began to brawl on the outside to the ramp. The referee had begun his count and Silver was tossed off the stage and landed on some crates below. Mathews-Mitchell looked around and looked for a leg drop and connected! The referee got to ten and the match ended in a draw as trainers came out to check on the two as the fans cheered.
NO CONTEST: Double Countout @ 10:11
Mathews-Mitchell got to her feet and Silver started to crawl away and pulled himself up using a barricade as they both had a bit of a smile on their face.
Scott Parker: Well neither Zoey or Alex will be walking out with a win tonight but they did just put on a heck of a showing and this is going to be a moment the fans are talking about all week long.
Gemma Foster: Hopefully this isn’t the last time we see these two face off.
#Empress
Casey Grey and Alicia Monroe lean against a pair of production boxes in the back. Casey, chewing bubble gum, is texting on her phone while Alicia nurses a bottle of water. Casey breaks the silence.
Casey Grey: You text or call Aunt Tracey yet?
Alicia Monroe: Nope.
Casey passes her own phone to Alicia as Kevin Olson approaches. Alicia starts snooping through Casey’s phone.
Kevin Olson: Casey, first I want to say to you that it is good to see you back with Empire. You’re one of three stars in the main event tonight. That must be exciting. Do you have any thoughts on your match?
Casey Grey: Of course I’m in the main event, Kevin, what did you expect?
Kevin Olson: Why do you say that?
Casey Grey: Because I’m Empire’s Forever Primetime Champion, and if anyone on the roster deserves to be in the main event it’s me. Now these other guys are great wrestlers, but this is Empire and everyone knows that I’m the Empress here. That can be accepted by everyone peacefully or I can force it on 'em. Don't make no difference to me.
Kevin Olson: Well, that’s a little-
Casey Grey: A little what? A little conceited? I haven’t lost any match I’ve been in since BWF closed. So, am I a little cocky?
Casey holds her index finger and thumb close together in the Kevin Olson’s face in what could be described as an almost “OK” gesture.
Casey Grey: Maybe a little bit, and I’ll tell you what’s going to happen tonight. I’m going to walk down that aisle and remind everyone why they should always bet on Grey and anyone that doesn't is gonna lose. But first…
Casey looks around for a moment, then takes her gum out of her mouth and puts it in Kevin Olson’s hand.
Kevin Olson: What the-
Casey Grey: Do somethin’ with that, will ya? Thanks. Let’s go, Alicia.
Alicia mouths the word “sorry” to Kevin Olson as they walk away. Kevin Olson appears upset about Casey’s gum before walking away.
Alicia Monroe: That was pretty gross, Casey. And you have no guys in your contacts. And who is “Unholy Black Hearted Bitch”? Is that my mom? That’s my mom, ain’t it?
Casey takes the phone from Alicia as they reach the locker room.
Casey Grey: Boundaries. No, it isn’t Aunt Tracey and you better not tell me you sent “Unholy Black Hearted Bitch” a text.
A beat.
Alicia Monroe: Whoops…
Casey Grey: Alicia!
Alicia Monroe: I’m kidding. Just mom.
The two walk into the locker room, still talking, the door closing behind them.
Inspired
Daniel Daemon: Inspiration is an incredible thing. You never quite know when it will strike.
At seven feet tall he the man on the screen cuts a very imposing figure. He was taping his hands, the first time he had done so in a while but it was like a second nature to him. Daniel was in a form-fitting black ‘Under Armour’ tee and long black pants with a ‘DD’ Logo on then in dark red as well as dark red wrestling boots. There was no obvious Satanic Iconography on his gear.
Daniel Daemon: For me it struck several months ago when my Idiot failure of a son Johnathan won a World Title. It became clear to me that a new example needed to be set. If that barely functional mistake is capable of winning a world title then the current generation needs to be taught how things used to be. While you all play nice on twitter and post pictures of… raccoons for some unfathomably idiotic reason... I have been watching and waiting and… training. I have no illusions about my age. I am very aware of the limitations that come with my being 50 years old and returning to the business after a very long hiatus. I have taken those limitations into consideration.
All of his words are measured, calm, and seem to have been carefully selected.
Daniel Daemon: As unwise as it would be for me to not consider my age as a limitation, I believe it would be unwise for all of you not to take into consideration my size, my strength, and what I am capable of.
He says, tearing off the end of his tape. He rolls his wrists a bit and seems satisfied with his work.
Daniel Daemon: Forgive me for not properly introducing myself. My name is Daniel Daemon. I’ve been doing this for some time. I’ve gone on previous tangents about my heritage and my nature but all I need to tell you right now is this. It would be foolish of me to stand here and tell you all I am a Demon or the Devil. So I will not. I will not deny that on occasion I have a flair for theatrical violence in the form of barbed wire crucifixes and a penchant for fire but I will not make any bold claims regarding my humanity. I will not tell you I am the Devil. Instead? I will do what I wish inside and outside of the ring and after I have given you sufficient examples I will simply ask if you can prove that I am not. It seems Jace Markum will have to serve as the first example. That is fine by me. He will most certainly serve as inspiration to you all, but I gather it will not be in the manner he wishes. I am back... and I will walk through anyone that is placed in my path. With apologies to the family of Jace Markum. I will assist in covering medical costs if that is necessary.
Daniel says, not even the slightest hint of a smile coming to his face as he walks offscreen.
Ash Fi Vs. Bailey Mayhew
Gemma Foster: Bailey is entering the ring tonight with a focus. She wants to get back to where she was and get a shot at the Primetime Championship. She was close to it during the last EW run and she wants it again.
Scott Parker: Casey Grey might have a few things to say about that.
Right off the bat Bailey tied up with Ash only for Ash to mockingly shove her into the corner and light her up with a series of hard strikes. The ref started a count and Ash made a clean break only to step in and give Bailey a boot to the ribs while she was trying to get her bearings. Ash backed away for a moment but then headed back to the cortner to go on the attack but a shut of 'HIYA' caught Ash off guard almost as much as the surprisingly powerful palm strike to her face. Bailey followed this up with a DDT. As Ash rose, Bailey attempted a Pele kick but Ash stepped back and grabbed her foot in midair, slamming it to the mat.
A pattern started to emerge, the crowd getting behind Bailey as she started to build offense but Ash spoiling the fun with a stiff strike each time. Finally, Bailey was whipped hard into the corner and Ash was coming right after her, attempting to hit her with the Ionsaí (Cornered Running double knee strike) but Bailey was able to duck under it and quickly roll Ash up for a schoolgirl pin that caught her off guard. 1..2...3!!!
WINNER: Bailey Mayhew, via pinfall @7:54
NY.JOINME.HACK.VR
The camera cuts to a backstage area where a member of the EW broadcast team is standing outside the locker room. He starts to speak about trying to speak with someone for an interview when static begins to interfere with the feed and the sound is a garbled mess.
The feed is seemingly highjacked and we find ourselves greeted with letters that have become familiar in the buildup to Empire Wrestling’s return.
‘NY.JOINME.HACK.VR’ on screen in large digital letters.
We then cut to a man in a Hoodie and a face concealing black mask sitting at what appears to be a news desk. The video is grainy and digitized. His ‘voice’ is clearly provided by a text-to-speech program. There are several other hooded men in masks around him.
Hooded Figure: This is the Faceless News Network. We are here to bring you an update from our man in the streets, the glorious leader.
We cut to footage of Times Square, the hooded figure holding a black flag standing still as everything around him seems to move at hyperspeed. The camera starts to move toward him.
‘NYJOINMEHACKVR’
The digital letters flash across the screen once more briefly before they start shuffling, superimposed over the video as it zooms in on the hooded figure from behind as he removes his mask and pulls down his hood, turning around and facing the camera just as the letters stop shuffling.
‘JOHNNYMAVERICK’
The audience in the arena cheers. He smirks and pulls his hood back up before walking away.
‘COMING(very)SOON’
The screen goes black.
Daniel Daemon Vs. Jace Markum
Scott Parker: Daemon is making the 6 footer Jace Markum look small here tonight.
Gemma Foster: There’s just an intimidation to Daemon. It’s almost creepy, eerie.
Jace ducked under Daemon as soon as the bell sounded and tried to chop block him down. Markum hit the ropes and hit a second chop block but it just staggered Daemon. Markum kicked the back of Daemon’s knee but Daemon spun around and leveled him with a clothesline. Markum him the mat hard and staggered to his feet before getting smashed in the head with a headbutt and then a scoop slam. Markum got to his feet and started to lay into Daemon with hard right hands and tried to back him into a corner. Markum whipped Daemon into the ropes and Daemon ducked a right hand and came back with the Inquisition (Running Lariat) that flipped Markum inside out. Daemon covered and picked up the pinfall.
WINNER: Daniel Daemon, via pinfall @ 3:53
Scott Parker: Well Jace Markum got a few good licks in but I don’t think that this one was ever in question.
Gemma Foster: This could be the start of a collision course between Daemon and FM Young.
Now Entering: The World of Kurt
Kurt Hullum is standing by, finishing putting on his gear.
Kurt Hullum:: Main Event. I didn’t expect anything less. I will however question why this match isn’t for the EW Heavyweight Championship. Maybe because they plan on just giving me the title, seeing as I’m the longest reigning BWF World Champion ever, a title I never even lost. Regardless, that title will belong to me. Tonight, however, I have to face Casey Grey and… who else?
Kurt turns his head away from the camera. A voice off screen is heard saying: “Ryan Lewis.”
Kurt Hullum:: Isn’t that that guy that hangs out with Macklemore? They are both terrible.
Voice: No, that’s a different Ryan Lewis. This one is the Kumquat Kid.
Kurt Hullum:: That’s even worse. Anyway, my point is that neither of them hold a candle to me.
Voice: Casey Grey is a two-time EW Primetime Champion and Ryan Lewis is a veteran with numerous titles to his name.
Kurt Hullum:: Who even are you? Did they pay you to sabotage my air time? Get out of here! Casey, Ryan, Macklemore, random guy off-screen, I will gladly welcome you all to the World of Kurt. Warning: you might not make it out alive.
Azurine Vebbins Vs. Ollie Maverick
The following match had the fans cheering for both competitors. Vebbins had a lot of energy and she entered the ring and it was easy to see Maverick was fired up. Maverick and Vebbins locked up as the bell sounded and the two fought into the corner, neither able to get the upper hand at first. Maverick landed a few kicks to Vebbins as she had her back in the corner. She countered with a hard open palm strike to the face that staggered Maverick. She followed it with a hard elbow strike to the head. Vebbins jumped up for a leaping lariat and took Maverick down. He quickly popped back up and ducked under another strike. Maverick kicked Vebbins in the gut and hit a snap suplex. He stood next to Vebbins and hit the Dance, Dance Execution (Breakdancing Leg Drop). Maverick covered but just got two. He pulled Vebbins to her feet and she surprised him with a spiking DDT as she jumped into the air.
Scott Parker: What a DDT from Azzy!
She pulled him back to his feet and tried to lock in the dragon suplex but he countered into a snapmare. He jumped up and hit Vebbins with a dropkick to the back. Vebbins staggered up to her feet and ducked a clothesline and looked for a leaping forearm after coming off the ropes but Maverick rolled under it. Both competitors popped to their feet and Maverick hit the 360 No Scope (Jumping Corkscrew Roundhouse Kick) out of nowhere! He covered her and picked up a victory.
WINNER: Ollie Maverick, via pinfall @ 7:47
Maverick got to his knees and soaked in the claps from the fans as Vebbins slowly came to. She nodded and smiled as we cut away for a few moments.
FM Young Vs. Brent Bradley
Scott Parker: FM has had less that nice things to say about Brent’s chances here tonight.
Gemma Foster: If I were Brent Bradley I would be taking a forfeit and live to see another day.
Bradley stood across from Young and started to talk trash as he took off his leather jacket. He went to hand it to the referee and tossed it at Young instead and used the opening to start hammering away with forearms to the face. He quickly pushed Young into the corner and went to whip her into the opposite side but she countered and connected with a spinebuster in the middle of the ring. She pulled him up and connected with a hard right hand before hitting a superkick that sent him into the corner. Bradley came out of the corner and hit Young with the Shotgun Blast (Discus Forearm) and covered but she powered out at one but pushing him away. Young stood and planted her feet. Bradley charged and ran right into a hard right hand. Young continued and connected with a left, another left, and then a hard right. She took him down with a swinging neckbreaker and stood over him. She jumped up and dropped a knee onto his chest. Bradley staggered to his feet and was rocked with a spear.
Scott Parker: FM is gathering momentum! The end might be near!
Bradley staggered up to his feet. He looked for a bicycle kick out of desperation but missed wildly. Young grabbed Bradley and connected with the Superchick (The Shiranui). Young jumped up and screamed, fired up. She climbed to the top ropes and crushed Bradley with her Battery Powered Bombshell (Shooting Star Senton) and covered for a three.
WINNER: FM Young, via pinfall @ 4:27
Gemma Foster: Impressive win for FM Young here tonight. Her journey to the EW Heavyweight Championship is underway.
VIVA!
Backstage, we see a shot of The Kumquat Kid, who appears to be on the phone, but as we get closer, we realize this isn't a regular cell phone, but instead, a Spongebob phone. What's worse (what could be worse?) is that ol' KK appears to be upset about something as he talks to whoever is on the other end of this "phone".
KK: Look, I don't care what you have to do, ok? Start a Kickstarter, a gofundme, apply for a state grant, I don't care, but this is a national emergency that has dire consequences on the rest of the world, nay, the entire universe!
KK pinches the bridge of his nose.
KK: No, you listen to me! For as long as I can remember, it has always been that ONE way, and doing it THIS way is giving me all sorts of problems, like anxiety, sleepless nights, the pee shivers, and why? Because you won't just do what I say AND TURN IT BACK TO IHOP! DO YOU HEAR ME?! IT'S IHOP NOT IHOB DAMN IT!
The crowd laughs as Ryan hits a button on the phone (that coincidentally has a sound clip of Spongebob laughing) as Ryan yells out "You think this is funny? STOP LAUGHING AT MY PAIN!" before chucking the phone off camera. Realizing this has all been caught on television, Ryan clears his throat and manages to give us a double thumbs up.
KK: Sorry about that folks, just some important business I had to take care of. Tonight is uber UBER importante, like getting in an actual Uber with a guy named Pedro that knows all the good taco joints uber importante. Tonight I step back into the ring for the first time in a few months to do battle with...to do battle with..hold on one second..
Ryan reaches into his back pocket and pulls out a decidedly orange Steno pad with Hello Kitty stickers all over it. Licking his thumb he pages through..
KK: A dozen eggs and Blueberry Frosted Mini Wheats! Man, I feel so unprepared for a truly epic battle against the powers of the incredible edible egg and part of your daily required amount of fiber. I mean-wait a minute, that doesn't sound right...
Ryan pages through again,smacking himself on the forehead.
KK: Casey Grey and Kurt Hullum, who, from what I heard through the California Raisin approved grapevine are chock full of egg and Frosted Mini Wheat powers to be sure, but know this, Casey Grey, I too appreciate a good car, well, the Car movies anyways, because well, seriously, who doesn't like Owen Wilson, right? Right? Wow.
The crowd laughs as Ryan gives us a Kachow!
KK: And you, Kurt Hullum, I know all about that stuff you did with the thing that upset my good friend and Hungry Hungry Hippos player, F.M. Young, but I believe the best way to beat a Kurt is by channeling the power of another Kurt.
Ryan reaches off camera and pulls out a 8x 10 photo of Kurt Cobain.
KK: And like this man once said, and I quote...Jeremy spoken...yesterday!
Laughs and even groans from the crowd, Ryan giving us that cheesy grin.
KK: Now I don't know who Jeremy is, or what it was he said, but I bet it was something about kicking your hiney, mister! So here's a hashtag for you, #JeremyKickedKurtsHiney. Make it happen, Tweety Bird gods!
Ryan outstretches his arms, his one hand still clutching the photo of Kurt Cobain.
KK: VIVA LA KUMQUAT!
Ryan walks off, talking to the photo, with "Let's show em', Kurt! Let's show him that Jeremy spoken!"
Ryan Lewis Vs. Casey Grey Vs. Kurt Hullum
The fans were excited for this one and they’re treated to Lewis coming out first. There was a loud “VIVA LA KUMQUAT” cheer as he made his way down. Grey came out next, followed by Hullum. Hullum and Grey shared words as Lewis stretched himself out. Lewis tried to interject but was pushed away by both Grey and Hullum. Lewis stepped back up and Hullum and Grey launched him over the top rope before turning back to each other and start throwing hammering blows. Hullum hit a back elbow to the face before dropping Grey with a scoop slam. Lewis came flying off the top turnbuckle and connected with a headscissors takedown to Hullum. Lewis turned and blasted Grey with a superkick. Then a superkick to Hullum. Another to Grey. He looked for a running crossbody to Hullum but Hullum took him down with a spinning powerslam. Hullum tried to lock Lewis into a crossface but Lewis slipped away and out of the ring. Grey charged at Hullum who wasn’t up yet and she connected with a running knee to the face.
Scott Parker: Non-stop action here in the main event!
The action continued fast and furious as all competitors were getting their licks in. Grey tried to put the match away with a cross arm breaker on Hullum but Hullum powered out and broke the hold. He pulled Grey up and hit her with the Crash Landing (Snapmare Driver). Lewis was right on Hullum and hit him with a running elbow smash. Lewis turned to Grey and hit her with the Rolling Kumquats (Rolling Thunder) and covered but only got a two count. Hullum grabbed Lewis and hit him with a lifting reverse DDT. Grey started to stagger to her feet and had to break free from Hullum. Lewis was up and hit Hullum with the Pez Dispenser (Cross Rhodes). Grey snuck up behind Lewis and hit the Breath Mint (Forearm Smash) to the back of the head and rolled him up with a school girl pin and picked up the three count!
WINNER: Casey Grey, via pinfall @ 13:10
Alicia Monroe ran to the ring to celebrate with her cousin as the two hugged. Lewis looked around, confused at how the final moments of the match ended.
Scott Parker: I think the Kumquat Kid thought he had that match won.
Grey and Monroe celebrated in the ring before heading to the back as the show began to close.
Scott Parker: Well, ladies and gentlemen, it’s great to be back. For myself and my broadcast partner, Gemma Foster, we’ll see you in two weeks for the second Hype!
Before Scott could say another word the screen on the stage went to blue and silver static with a loud static noise filling the speakers. Finally, an outline of a fist came across the screen.
Last Call
“Lights Out” by POD hit the speakers as the crowd went insane.
Scott Parker: No way!
The hooded figure stepped out onto the stage but it wasn’t fooling anyone. AJ Adams had arrived to the EW Warehouse. He looked around with a smirk on his face as he slowly made his way down to the ring.
Gemma Foster: AJ Adams is in the house, Scott!
Adams rolled into the ring and reached out for a microphone. The crowd was deafening as they cheered for him.
AJ Adams: So I’m sure most of you are wondering what the heck is going on. Why am I here in EW? Why here? Why now? To me that answer is fairly simple. For years I’ve lived by two mantras. First, be prepared. Every time I’ve stepped through those ropes I’ve been prepared to make the match my last. Second, how will I leave my legacy? I couldn’t let my legacy be defined and ended with how things ended for me in the BWF. So here I am, right here inside this Warehouse where magic is about to happen. I see talent here that makes me generally excited to be stepping back into the ring. Talent that’s going to put on amazing matches to help me write a new chapter to my legacy. It’s time to announce that I’ve officially signed a contract with Empire Wrestling.
There’s a loud cheer from the fans as Adams looks around.
AJ Adams: It doesn’t matter who steps in my way or what I have to do to get to the top once again, but I’ll find a way.
Voice: You know, AJ, I couldn’t agree more.
The fans and AJ are all confused as he’s being cut off. He looks up to the stage and the fans are shocked as Emily Corlen makes her way out to the stage.
Gemma Foster: That’s Emily Corlen!
Corlen walks and talks at the same time.
Emily Corlen: We live in a “what have you done for me lately” world so everything you say makes perfect sense. Legacy. It’s something that defines your career. I’m also at a point in my career where I have to think about what legacy I’m leaving behind.
Corlen has climbed up the steel steps and takes a step into the ring.
Emily Corlen: For the first time in possibly forever, AJ, we’re on the same page. I’ve been thinking and mulling things over and I decided that coming to EW is going to be the perfect place to write the perfect closing chapter on my career. That’s why, this morning, I signed a deal with Empire Wrestling.
There’s large cheers from the fans.
Emily Corlen: Together, AJ, we can forge a legacy that puts others to shame. We’ve never been on the same page but now, let’s prove we’re the best.
AJ looks over at Emily and gives her a big of a smile before the two shake hands to the delight of the crowd. Adams tries to walk away but gets blasted from behind with a hard clothesline and the fans urrupt with boos. Corlen begins to lay into Adams with hard kicks.
Scott Parkers: What the hell is this!?
Corlen tosses Adams out of the ring and goes after him. She sends him hard into the steel steps and then hard into the announcers table. Parker and Foster scatter as Corlen looks under the ring for something. AJ tries to get up but gets leveled with a hard chair to the skull. Corlen goes back under the ring and finds what it is she wants. A container of gasoline. Trainers have run down and are pleading for Corlen to stop. Corlen empties the container onto the announcers table and strikes a match, lighting it on fire. Adams staggers to his feet before taking a hard chairshot to the head again. Corlen grabs the steel steps and sets them up to where she can stand closer to the fire. The fans are chanting “holy shit” as Corlen lifts Adams up. The trainers plead some more as Corlen gets Adams up. She lifts him above her head and hits a big powerbomb, through the announce table on fire! EMTs and trainers work quickly to put out the first. Corlen leans over to Scott and Gemma and says…
Emily Corlen: There’s a new Order in professional wrestling and you’re all going to feel the burn!
The crowd is shocked as the camera pans around AJ on the ground, not moving, as we pan back to Corlen and then away.
Bailey Mayhew: Twenty-one months. Almost two years ago was the last time I stepped foot in this building. I remember it like it was yesterday. It was a Triple Threat Match against Chris Stevens and Emperor Ian. It was a first round match in a Primetime Championship Contender’s Tournament. I won. I advanced in the tournament. However, the tournament didn’t advance. EW shut down right after that.
She takes a sip from the Slurpee.
Bailey Mayhew: I’m sure a lot of people drive by this remodeled warehouse and don’t realize what it is. To them it’s probably just another building. They probably don’t realize what magical moments have happened in here. It’s not just another building. It’s a dream factory. This building made me the person I am today. This building is coated in my blood, sweat, and tears.
She takes a moment to realize what she just said.
Bailey Mayhew: Okay, that sounded really gross when I said it out loud, it was much better in my head. You know what I’m trying to say. Home is where the heart is, and my heart is in Empire Wrestling. This building is my home.
She finishes the Slurpee and tosses the empty cup in a nearby trash can.
Bailey Mayhew: I was playing Minecraft when I heard EW was returning. I stopped everything I was doing and immediately emailed them. I had to come back here. I couldn’t not. After a few emails back and forth and confirming my re-hire to EW, I went back to Minecraft. I was in an abandoned mineshaft and was killed by cave spiders. I was level 34 and was getting ready to do some enchanting and had to regain all my experience. That’s kind of how it is right now. I was moving up the Primetime Championship ladder, and now, I have to start all over. But you know, that’s okay! That’s kind of one of the best parts about Minecraft; starting over, building a new world. Tonight, I start building a new Empire. I’ll just keep building up wins, and sooner or later, I’ll have a nice piece of gold armor in the form of a championship around my waist. It all begins as soon as I place my foot on the floor of this building.
Bailey further approaches the “Dream Factory” that is the EW Warehouse. She takes a deep breath, opens the door, and steps inside.
The crowd is roaring as we pan around the Empire Wrestling Warehouse. We cut to ringside where we’re joined by long-time EW announcer Scott Parker.
Scott Parker: Hello everyone! Empire Wrestling is back in action. This is HYPE! My name is Scott Parker and I’m joined by the lovely Gemma Foster and we’re live from the Empire Wrestling Warehouse in Queens, New York.
Gemma Foster: It’s great to be back, Scott. This is a new era of Empire Wrestling and there’s a lot of buzz coming into it.
Scott Parker: I think buzz is an understatement. There’s a few things different this time around though. We know that overseeing EW is a group that has remained anonymous. I also have it on good authority that the championships in EW have been vacated since the last Animosity show. That means both the EW Heavyweight Championship and the Primetime Championship are vacated as of October 12th, 2016.
Gemma Foster: Clean slate!
Earlier Today
Mike Fright
Casey Grey walks into the locker room. She looks around for a minute and finds Alicia Monroe sitting on a bench, elbows on her knees and head in her hands. Casey sits beside her.
Casey Grey: Hey. What’s wrong?
Alicia Monroe: I don’t know. I mean, I didn’t think I would be this nervous tonight. I feel like I’m already choking…like my neck is in a vice or something.
Alicia sits up and places a hand on her stomach.
Alicia Monroe: Damnable butterflies…I was fine until I got dressed in this. I don’t know if I can-
Casey Grey: Don’t try for any submissions.
Alicia looks at Casey with a confused expression. Casey has a neutral expression on her face.
Casey Grey: It’s a triple threat match. The third person will just break it up and it’s wasted energy.
Alicia Monroe: What does that have to do with-
Casey Grey: Billy Way is nuts. Watch him. He’s a former champion and he’s dangerous and unpredictable.
Alicia Monroe: I don’t think-
Casey Grey: As bad as Billy is, dealing with Katie is worse. Looking at her resume is enough to make anyone’s stomach do backflips. And on top of that, she’s married to one of the greatest wrestlers I’ve ever seen. You can bet she’s just dyin’ to get in the ring right now. She’s got a plan and it’s gonna be flawless. It’s not the best situation to be in for your first match, Leesha.
Alicia Monroe: Wow. Thank you, Casey. I feel just peachy, now. How is that supposed to help me?
Casey Grey: It’s not, really. All I’m saying is that you have every right to be nervous. Everyone’s nervous for their first match. You think I went out there cool and calm? No. I just knew I was going to humiliate myself.
Casey pats Alicia on the back.
Casey Grey: We’ve been trainin’ for weeks. You’ll do fine. True, the first time is a little stressful, but after tonight’s match you’ll be able to relax a bit and it gets easier.
Alicia Monroe: Oh, so it’s like losing your virginity.
Casey shakes her head and rolls her eyes. Alicia shrugs.
Casey Grey: Yeah. Sure. I guess. All right, look. I’m trying to help you deal with this but you went somewhere really awkward so…I’m just gonna leave now. I’ll wait at the ramp to walk out with you.
Casey stands up and walks out of the frame. Alicia sits for a few more moments and then, with an audible sigh, stands and follows her as we cut away.
Alicia Monroe Vs. Billy Way Vs. Katie Shelley
Scott Parker: And here comes the rookie Alicia Monroe. She’s the cousin of former EW Primetime Champion Casey Grey.
Gemma Foster: Speaking of Casey, it looks like she’s going to join her cousin ringside tonight. I know that Casey has been training her leading up to the show tonight.
Monroe stood in the ring and shook of the nerves as Billy Way made his way to the ring next. Grey stood on the outside and cheered Monroe on. The crowd gave him some boos as he soaked them all in. The former EW Heavyweight Champion circled the ring to try and keep Monroe uneased. It wasn’t long before the crowd popped as Katie Shelley stepped out from the curtain, ready for action. She climbed into the ring and briefly shook hands with Monroe. Way jumped into the ring and the bell sounded to kick things off.
Way tried to talk to Monroe and offered to team up against Shelley. Monroe stood her ground and then Way went over to Shelley and offered the same thing. Shelley shook her head and Way began to walk back over to Monroe but turned and clocked Shelley with a cheapshot. Shelley hit the mat and bounced right back up and was hit with a swinging neckbreaker from Way. Way stood and turned to Monroe. Monroe took a deep breath and charged before ducking under a clothesline. She came back off the ropes and hit a running knee strike to the face of Way that got a big pop from the crowd. Monroe jumped to her feet in excitement and pulled Way up with her. She drove a knee into his gut before Shelley came flying off the top ropes with a double dropkick. Shelley was fired up and took to the offensive against both Monroe and Way.
Gemma Foster: Katie Shelley is a firecracker here tonight! She’s been out of action for so long she’s come out guns ablaze.
Scott Parker: It’s momma power!
Way had rolled out of the ring to regroup as Shelley kept laying into Monroe. Monroe started to battle back but was blasted with a running big boot from Way. Grey shouted to her cousin, encouraging her to get up. Way turned to Shelley and hit her with the Billion Dollar Kick (Roundhouse Kick) and rolled into a cover but could only get a two count fall. Way pulled Shelley to her feet and tossed her into the corner. He then grabbed Monroe and went to send her into the same corner as Shelley but she reversed it. Way rammed into Shelley and staggered out of the corner before Monroe hit him with the Freebird (Running Bulldog). Monroe pushed Shelley out of the corner and climbed to the top ropes and hit Way with the White Lightning (Moonsault). Before she could go into the cover, Shelley pulled her up and tossed her out of the ring. Grey checked on her cousin but didn’t get involved. Shelley rushed to the top ropes and hit her HM02 (Swanton Bomb) and covered for the pinfall before Monroe could get back in to break it up.
WINNER: “Stutterfly” Katie Shelley, via pinfall @ 9:13
Scott Parker: Big win here for Katie Shelley.
Shelley stands and catches her breath as Monroe had just rolled back into the ring. Shelley pulled her up and shook her hand again before heading to the back.
The Long Shot
We open with a backstage selfie video of Hailey Harris as she walks through the arena. Harris looks highly annoyed. Clad in sunglasses, a gray hoodie covering a hot pink corset with lace, Harris looks into her camera as she walks.
Hailey Harris: Truthfully, I didn't want to have to say this, but it looks like I don't have a choice. Is WHOEVER is in charge of this place a blithering idiot? I mean, here I am, a certified icon in the wrestling world, building myself up, making a huge name for myself, and my phone, THIS phone, has been blowing up with calls to sign me, the hottest free agent, literally, in every sense of the word, to a contract, and yet I came here, to EW, because those other places, I already conquered them, or bottom line, they don't deserve me.
Harris sighs.
Hailey Harris: And yet the first order of business from whoever this brainless moron is in charge is to book me against some stupid little chica who thinks she's just going to waltz back into this place like that's destiny probably, like it's supposed to happen. Well, what you didn't count on, you piece of Mexican trash, is Hailey Harris, the woman who now that she is here, gracing you all with her presence IS Empire Wrestling as far as I'm concerned, and come time for my beating of your ass, as far as the fans are concerned. I didn't come here to be disrespected, oh no. I came here to conquer. I came here to remind the wrestling world that I'm Hailey Harris, and damn right I'm confident, because I have every right to be. That name, "Long Shot" that's a less than subtle poke to all those idiots who thought I wouldn't make it. Well here I am, and tonight, Miss Argentina, Miss "Ooh Let's Bring The Heat" (gag), you're going to be at the bottom of my boot, where garbage like you belongs! Harris OUT!
Takeover, Break’s Over
Somewhere backstage, we see Zoey Mathews-Mitchell slowly pacing back and forth. She has her trusty kendo stick against her shoulder and is wearing her hooded vest and neoprene mask. She eventually faces the camera.
Zoey Mathews-Mitchell: For the unaware, I am Zoey Mathews-Mitchell. I am the link between the Mathews and Mitchell families, if you couldn’t deduce that by my excessively long name. I’ve held titles everywhere I’ve been. Three times a Women’s Champion, two times a Tag Team Champion. To put it frankly, I don’t intend on leaving Empire Wrestling empty handed.
She takes a look at her kendo stick sidekick and twirls it once, before resting it back against her shoulder.
Zoey Mathews-Mitchell: In AXW, I used to come out to entrance music that had the lyric, ‘I know how it feels to have nothing left to lose.’ – and that is one hundred percent the truth. I’ve been to the very bottom. I have been to war and lost. I have physical scars that I’m taking to my grave, most of them from barbed wire and fire – both of which happened in the same damn match might I add. I am willing to go as far as I can. I’ll compete in a traditional wrestling match, I’ll compete in a Death Match. I embrace the extreme.
She pulls down her neoprene mask to expose her full face.
Zoey Mathews-Mitchell: The break’s over, and I’m here to take over.
Talia Areano Vs. Hailey Harris
The 'confident' Hailey Harris scoffed at the sight of her opponent before the bell rang. This was met with boos from the crowd who she turned around to mock a bit before turning back around to be met with a HUGE running dropkick from Talia that got the crowd out of their seats. Talia made the same mistake and played up to the cheering fans only to be caught off guard by a Snap DDT when she turned back around. Hailey was able to nail Talia with a Long Shot (Twist of Fate) and cover Talia for a pin which only got a two count.
Scott Parker: I thought that it might be all over right there. Both competitors giving it their all here tonight.
Hailey remained firmly in control for a good portion of the match, utilizing her speed and agility to keep up the pressure against Talia until Talia was able to finally strike back with a roundhouse kick that dropped Hailey on her ass, allowing Talia to follow up with a Rush Hour (Sliding Forearm Smash). The crowd was cheering loud as Talia waited for Hailey to rise and finally, Talia was able to hit Hailey with a standing Slice of Heaven (Sliced Bread #2) and get the cover for the 1...2...3!!!
WINNER: Talia Areano, via pinfall @ 8:31
Scott Parker: Big win for Talia here tonight!
As Real as it Gets
We open backstage, as we see Alex Silver finishes up a few push ups, getting that adrenaline flowing. Clad in a denim vest and silver trunks, Alex takes a breath and turns to the camera with a sly grin.
Alex Silver: I just have to say, first and foremost, that I'm damn glad to be back at this, at what I do, and do so damn well, and that's wrestling.
The crowd cheers, as Silver's expression turns to one of focus, one of determination.
Alex Silver: But that's all the pleasantries I plan on giving out tonight. Zoey, tonight, it really isn't nor will it be anything personal. I have done nothing but have respect for everything you and your family have done for this business, but tonight, tonight I have to make a point, and unfortunately you're going to be that medium for that message. You see, there seems to be this misconception that even after holding onto championship gold up north across the border for over 200 days that I have lost a step or two, but that just isn't true. If anything, the wrestling business cannot keep up with the fierce talent, the unbridled skill that is "The Wrestling Workhorse" Alex Silver.
An "Alex Silver" chant begins, as Silver nods, rubbing his chin.
Alex Silver: Truly, not that I give a damn about critics, but I do care about this business evolving, and right smack dab in the middle of this EW rebirth is where I want to be. Where I damn well deserve to be, so tonight, Zoey, I take my first step in getting to the front of the line, to become the leader of the pack once more, and respect or no respect, that first step is going to be putting a W in the column and going through you. That's not an idle threat. That is the way of Alex Silver, and that, is as real as it gets!
Silver runs his right hand through his hair and gives us a wink before walking off.
Alex Silver Vs. Zoey Mathews-Mitchell
Silver and Mathews-Mitchell circled each other and shared a few words before things got underway. Silver turned to the crowd and threw his hands out and pounded his chest for a big cheer. He turned back to Mathews-Mitchell and the two locked up. Mathews-Mitchell hit Silver with an European uppercut and he returned with a hard forearm to the face. Silver sent Mathews-Mitchell into the ropes and he ducked her incoming clothesline. Mathews-Mitchell grabbed Silver from behind but he took her down with a snapmare and locked in a headlock. Silver pulled her up looked for a swinging neckbreaker but Mathews-Mitchell pushed him away. She jumped up and planted Silver with a tornado DDT. Mathews-Mitchell stood beside Silver and hit a standing moonsault. She hooked a leg into a cover but just got two. Mathews-Mitchell pulled Silver up and tried for a suplex but Silver pushed her away and blasted her with a superkick. Mathews-Mitchell stumbled backwards and fell to a knee before taking another superkick. Silver pulled Mathews-Mitchell to her feet and she speared him through the ropes and they fell to the outside. The two began to brawl on the outside to the ramp. The referee had begun his count and Silver was tossed off the stage and landed on some crates below. Mathews-Mitchell looked around and looked for a leg drop and connected! The referee got to ten and the match ended in a draw as trainers came out to check on the two as the fans cheered.
NO CONTEST: Double Countout @ 10:11
Mathews-Mitchell got to her feet and Silver started to crawl away and pulled himself up using a barricade as they both had a bit of a smile on their face.
Scott Parker: Well neither Zoey or Alex will be walking out with a win tonight but they did just put on a heck of a showing and this is going to be a moment the fans are talking about all week long.
Gemma Foster: Hopefully this isn’t the last time we see these two face off.
#Empress
Casey Grey and Alicia Monroe lean against a pair of production boxes in the back. Casey, chewing bubble gum, is texting on her phone while Alicia nurses a bottle of water. Casey breaks the silence.
Casey Grey: You text or call Aunt Tracey yet?
Alicia Monroe: Nope.
Casey passes her own phone to Alicia as Kevin Olson approaches. Alicia starts snooping through Casey’s phone.
Kevin Olson: Casey, first I want to say to you that it is good to see you back with Empire. You’re one of three stars in the main event tonight. That must be exciting. Do you have any thoughts on your match?
Casey Grey: Of course I’m in the main event, Kevin, what did you expect?
Kevin Olson: Why do you say that?
Casey Grey: Because I’m Empire’s Forever Primetime Champion, and if anyone on the roster deserves to be in the main event it’s me. Now these other guys are great wrestlers, but this is Empire and everyone knows that I’m the Empress here. That can be accepted by everyone peacefully or I can force it on 'em. Don't make no difference to me.
Kevin Olson: Well, that’s a little-
Casey Grey: A little what? A little conceited? I haven’t lost any match I’ve been in since BWF closed. So, am I a little cocky?
Casey holds her index finger and thumb close together in the Kevin Olson’s face in what could be described as an almost “OK” gesture.
Casey Grey: Maybe a little bit, and I’ll tell you what’s going to happen tonight. I’m going to walk down that aisle and remind everyone why they should always bet on Grey and anyone that doesn't is gonna lose. But first…
Casey looks around for a moment, then takes her gum out of her mouth and puts it in Kevin Olson’s hand.
Kevin Olson: What the-
Casey Grey: Do somethin’ with that, will ya? Thanks. Let’s go, Alicia.
Alicia mouths the word “sorry” to Kevin Olson as they walk away. Kevin Olson appears upset about Casey’s gum before walking away.
Alicia Monroe: That was pretty gross, Casey. And you have no guys in your contacts. And who is “Unholy Black Hearted Bitch”? Is that my mom? That’s my mom, ain’t it?
Casey takes the phone from Alicia as they reach the locker room.
Casey Grey: Boundaries. No, it isn’t Aunt Tracey and you better not tell me you sent “Unholy Black Hearted Bitch” a text.
A beat.
Alicia Monroe: Whoops…
Casey Grey: Alicia!
Alicia Monroe: I’m kidding. Just mom.
The two walk into the locker room, still talking, the door closing behind them.
Inspired
Daniel Daemon: Inspiration is an incredible thing. You never quite know when it will strike.
At seven feet tall he the man on the screen cuts a very imposing figure. He was taping his hands, the first time he had done so in a while but it was like a second nature to him. Daniel was in a form-fitting black ‘Under Armour’ tee and long black pants with a ‘DD’ Logo on then in dark red as well as dark red wrestling boots. There was no obvious Satanic Iconography on his gear.
Daniel Daemon: For me it struck several months ago when my Idiot failure of a son Johnathan won a World Title. It became clear to me that a new example needed to be set. If that barely functional mistake is capable of winning a world title then the current generation needs to be taught how things used to be. While you all play nice on twitter and post pictures of… raccoons for some unfathomably idiotic reason... I have been watching and waiting and… training. I have no illusions about my age. I am very aware of the limitations that come with my being 50 years old and returning to the business after a very long hiatus. I have taken those limitations into consideration.
All of his words are measured, calm, and seem to have been carefully selected.
Daniel Daemon: As unwise as it would be for me to not consider my age as a limitation, I believe it would be unwise for all of you not to take into consideration my size, my strength, and what I am capable of.
He says, tearing off the end of his tape. He rolls his wrists a bit and seems satisfied with his work.
Daniel Daemon: Forgive me for not properly introducing myself. My name is Daniel Daemon. I’ve been doing this for some time. I’ve gone on previous tangents about my heritage and my nature but all I need to tell you right now is this. It would be foolish of me to stand here and tell you all I am a Demon or the Devil. So I will not. I will not deny that on occasion I have a flair for theatrical violence in the form of barbed wire crucifixes and a penchant for fire but I will not make any bold claims regarding my humanity. I will not tell you I am the Devil. Instead? I will do what I wish inside and outside of the ring and after I have given you sufficient examples I will simply ask if you can prove that I am not. It seems Jace Markum will have to serve as the first example. That is fine by me. He will most certainly serve as inspiration to you all, but I gather it will not be in the manner he wishes. I am back... and I will walk through anyone that is placed in my path. With apologies to the family of Jace Markum. I will assist in covering medical costs if that is necessary.
Daniel says, not even the slightest hint of a smile coming to his face as he walks offscreen.
Ash Fi Vs. Bailey Mayhew
Gemma Foster: Bailey is entering the ring tonight with a focus. She wants to get back to where she was and get a shot at the Primetime Championship. She was close to it during the last EW run and she wants it again.
Scott Parker: Casey Grey might have a few things to say about that.
Right off the bat Bailey tied up with Ash only for Ash to mockingly shove her into the corner and light her up with a series of hard strikes. The ref started a count and Ash made a clean break only to step in and give Bailey a boot to the ribs while she was trying to get her bearings. Ash backed away for a moment but then headed back to the cortner to go on the attack but a shut of 'HIYA' caught Ash off guard almost as much as the surprisingly powerful palm strike to her face. Bailey followed this up with a DDT. As Ash rose, Bailey attempted a Pele kick but Ash stepped back and grabbed her foot in midair, slamming it to the mat.
A pattern started to emerge, the crowd getting behind Bailey as she started to build offense but Ash spoiling the fun with a stiff strike each time. Finally, Bailey was whipped hard into the corner and Ash was coming right after her, attempting to hit her with the Ionsaí (Cornered Running double knee strike) but Bailey was able to duck under it and quickly roll Ash up for a schoolgirl pin that caught her off guard. 1..2...3!!!
WINNER: Bailey Mayhew, via pinfall @7:54
NY.JOINME.HACK.VR
The camera cuts to a backstage area where a member of the EW broadcast team is standing outside the locker room. He starts to speak about trying to speak with someone for an interview when static begins to interfere with the feed and the sound is a garbled mess.
The feed is seemingly highjacked and we find ourselves greeted with letters that have become familiar in the buildup to Empire Wrestling’s return.
‘NY.JOINME.HACK.VR’ on screen in large digital letters.
We then cut to a man in a Hoodie and a face concealing black mask sitting at what appears to be a news desk. The video is grainy and digitized. His ‘voice’ is clearly provided by a text-to-speech program. There are several other hooded men in masks around him.
Hooded Figure: This is the Faceless News Network. We are here to bring you an update from our man in the streets, the glorious leader.
We cut to footage of Times Square, the hooded figure holding a black flag standing still as everything around him seems to move at hyperspeed. The camera starts to move toward him.
‘NYJOINMEHACKVR’
The digital letters flash across the screen once more briefly before they start shuffling, superimposed over the video as it zooms in on the hooded figure from behind as he removes his mask and pulls down his hood, turning around and facing the camera just as the letters stop shuffling.
‘JOHNNYMAVERICK’
The audience in the arena cheers. He smirks and pulls his hood back up before walking away.
‘COMING(very)SOON’
The screen goes black.
Daniel Daemon Vs. Jace Markum
Scott Parker: Daemon is making the 6 footer Jace Markum look small here tonight.
Gemma Foster: There’s just an intimidation to Daemon. It’s almost creepy, eerie.
Jace ducked under Daemon as soon as the bell sounded and tried to chop block him down. Markum hit the ropes and hit a second chop block but it just staggered Daemon. Markum kicked the back of Daemon’s knee but Daemon spun around and leveled him with a clothesline. Markum him the mat hard and staggered to his feet before getting smashed in the head with a headbutt and then a scoop slam. Markum got to his feet and started to lay into Daemon with hard right hands and tried to back him into a corner. Markum whipped Daemon into the ropes and Daemon ducked a right hand and came back with the Inquisition (Running Lariat) that flipped Markum inside out. Daemon covered and picked up the pinfall.
WINNER: Daniel Daemon, via pinfall @ 3:53
Scott Parker: Well Jace Markum got a few good licks in but I don’t think that this one was ever in question.
Gemma Foster: This could be the start of a collision course between Daemon and FM Young.
Now Entering: The World of Kurt
Kurt Hullum is standing by, finishing putting on his gear.
Kurt Hullum:: Main Event. I didn’t expect anything less. I will however question why this match isn’t for the EW Heavyweight Championship. Maybe because they plan on just giving me the title, seeing as I’m the longest reigning BWF World Champion ever, a title I never even lost. Regardless, that title will belong to me. Tonight, however, I have to face Casey Grey and… who else?
Kurt turns his head away from the camera. A voice off screen is heard saying: “Ryan Lewis.”
Kurt Hullum:: Isn’t that that guy that hangs out with Macklemore? They are both terrible.
Voice: No, that’s a different Ryan Lewis. This one is the Kumquat Kid.
Kurt Hullum:: That’s even worse. Anyway, my point is that neither of them hold a candle to me.
Voice: Casey Grey is a two-time EW Primetime Champion and Ryan Lewis is a veteran with numerous titles to his name.
Kurt Hullum:: Who even are you? Did they pay you to sabotage my air time? Get out of here! Casey, Ryan, Macklemore, random guy off-screen, I will gladly welcome you all to the World of Kurt. Warning: you might not make it out alive.
Azurine Vebbins Vs. Ollie Maverick
The following match had the fans cheering for both competitors. Vebbins had a lot of energy and she entered the ring and it was easy to see Maverick was fired up. Maverick and Vebbins locked up as the bell sounded and the two fought into the corner, neither able to get the upper hand at first. Maverick landed a few kicks to Vebbins as she had her back in the corner. She countered with a hard open palm strike to the face that staggered Maverick. She followed it with a hard elbow strike to the head. Vebbins jumped up for a leaping lariat and took Maverick down. He quickly popped back up and ducked under another strike. Maverick kicked Vebbins in the gut and hit a snap suplex. He stood next to Vebbins and hit the Dance, Dance Execution (Breakdancing Leg Drop). Maverick covered but just got two. He pulled Vebbins to her feet and she surprised him with a spiking DDT as she jumped into the air.
Scott Parker: What a DDT from Azzy!
She pulled him back to his feet and tried to lock in the dragon suplex but he countered into a snapmare. He jumped up and hit Vebbins with a dropkick to the back. Vebbins staggered up to her feet and ducked a clothesline and looked for a leaping forearm after coming off the ropes but Maverick rolled under it. Both competitors popped to their feet and Maverick hit the 360 No Scope (Jumping Corkscrew Roundhouse Kick) out of nowhere! He covered her and picked up a victory.
WINNER: Ollie Maverick, via pinfall @ 7:47
Maverick got to his knees and soaked in the claps from the fans as Vebbins slowly came to. She nodded and smiled as we cut away for a few moments.
FM Young Vs. Brent Bradley
Scott Parker: FM has had less that nice things to say about Brent’s chances here tonight.
Gemma Foster: If I were Brent Bradley I would be taking a forfeit and live to see another day.
Bradley stood across from Young and started to talk trash as he took off his leather jacket. He went to hand it to the referee and tossed it at Young instead and used the opening to start hammering away with forearms to the face. He quickly pushed Young into the corner and went to whip her into the opposite side but she countered and connected with a spinebuster in the middle of the ring. She pulled him up and connected with a hard right hand before hitting a superkick that sent him into the corner. Bradley came out of the corner and hit Young with the Shotgun Blast (Discus Forearm) and covered but she powered out at one but pushing him away. Young stood and planted her feet. Bradley charged and ran right into a hard right hand. Young continued and connected with a left, another left, and then a hard right. She took him down with a swinging neckbreaker and stood over him. She jumped up and dropped a knee onto his chest. Bradley staggered to his feet and was rocked with a spear.
Scott Parker: FM is gathering momentum! The end might be near!
Bradley staggered up to his feet. He looked for a bicycle kick out of desperation but missed wildly. Young grabbed Bradley and connected with the Superchick (The Shiranui). Young jumped up and screamed, fired up. She climbed to the top ropes and crushed Bradley with her Battery Powered Bombshell (Shooting Star Senton) and covered for a three.
WINNER: FM Young, via pinfall @ 4:27
Gemma Foster: Impressive win for FM Young here tonight. Her journey to the EW Heavyweight Championship is underway.
VIVA!
Backstage, we see a shot of The Kumquat Kid, who appears to be on the phone, but as we get closer, we realize this isn't a regular cell phone, but instead, a Spongebob phone. What's worse (what could be worse?) is that ol' KK appears to be upset about something as he talks to whoever is on the other end of this "phone".
KK: Look, I don't care what you have to do, ok? Start a Kickstarter, a gofundme, apply for a state grant, I don't care, but this is a national emergency that has dire consequences on the rest of the world, nay, the entire universe!
KK pinches the bridge of his nose.
KK: No, you listen to me! For as long as I can remember, it has always been that ONE way, and doing it THIS way is giving me all sorts of problems, like anxiety, sleepless nights, the pee shivers, and why? Because you won't just do what I say AND TURN IT BACK TO IHOP! DO YOU HEAR ME?! IT'S IHOP NOT IHOB DAMN IT!
The crowd laughs as Ryan hits a button on the phone (that coincidentally has a sound clip of Spongebob laughing) as Ryan yells out "You think this is funny? STOP LAUGHING AT MY PAIN!" before chucking the phone off camera. Realizing this has all been caught on television, Ryan clears his throat and manages to give us a double thumbs up.
KK: Sorry about that folks, just some important business I had to take care of. Tonight is uber UBER importante, like getting in an actual Uber with a guy named Pedro that knows all the good taco joints uber importante. Tonight I step back into the ring for the first time in a few months to do battle with...to do battle with..hold on one second..
Ryan reaches into his back pocket and pulls out a decidedly orange Steno pad with Hello Kitty stickers all over it. Licking his thumb he pages through..
KK: A dozen eggs and Blueberry Frosted Mini Wheats! Man, I feel so unprepared for a truly epic battle against the powers of the incredible edible egg and part of your daily required amount of fiber. I mean-wait a minute, that doesn't sound right...
Ryan pages through again,smacking himself on the forehead.
KK: Casey Grey and Kurt Hullum, who, from what I heard through the California Raisin approved grapevine are chock full of egg and Frosted Mini Wheat powers to be sure, but know this, Casey Grey, I too appreciate a good car, well, the Car movies anyways, because well, seriously, who doesn't like Owen Wilson, right? Right? Wow.
The crowd laughs as Ryan gives us a Kachow!
KK: And you, Kurt Hullum, I know all about that stuff you did with the thing that upset my good friend and Hungry Hungry Hippos player, F.M. Young, but I believe the best way to beat a Kurt is by channeling the power of another Kurt.
Ryan reaches off camera and pulls out a 8x 10 photo of Kurt Cobain.
KK: And like this man once said, and I quote...Jeremy spoken...yesterday!
Laughs and even groans from the crowd, Ryan giving us that cheesy grin.
KK: Now I don't know who Jeremy is, or what it was he said, but I bet it was something about kicking your hiney, mister! So here's a hashtag for you, #JeremyKickedKurtsHiney. Make it happen, Tweety Bird gods!
Ryan outstretches his arms, his one hand still clutching the photo of Kurt Cobain.
KK: VIVA LA KUMQUAT!
Ryan walks off, talking to the photo, with "Let's show em', Kurt! Let's show him that Jeremy spoken!"
Ryan Lewis Vs. Casey Grey Vs. Kurt Hullum
The fans were excited for this one and they’re treated to Lewis coming out first. There was a loud “VIVA LA KUMQUAT” cheer as he made his way down. Grey came out next, followed by Hullum. Hullum and Grey shared words as Lewis stretched himself out. Lewis tried to interject but was pushed away by both Grey and Hullum. Lewis stepped back up and Hullum and Grey launched him over the top rope before turning back to each other and start throwing hammering blows. Hullum hit a back elbow to the face before dropping Grey with a scoop slam. Lewis came flying off the top turnbuckle and connected with a headscissors takedown to Hullum. Lewis turned and blasted Grey with a superkick. Then a superkick to Hullum. Another to Grey. He looked for a running crossbody to Hullum but Hullum took him down with a spinning powerslam. Hullum tried to lock Lewis into a crossface but Lewis slipped away and out of the ring. Grey charged at Hullum who wasn’t up yet and she connected with a running knee to the face.
Scott Parker: Non-stop action here in the main event!
The action continued fast and furious as all competitors were getting their licks in. Grey tried to put the match away with a cross arm breaker on Hullum but Hullum powered out and broke the hold. He pulled Grey up and hit her with the Crash Landing (Snapmare Driver). Lewis was right on Hullum and hit him with a running elbow smash. Lewis turned to Grey and hit her with the Rolling Kumquats (Rolling Thunder) and covered but only got a two count. Hullum grabbed Lewis and hit him with a lifting reverse DDT. Grey started to stagger to her feet and had to break free from Hullum. Lewis was up and hit Hullum with the Pez Dispenser (Cross Rhodes). Grey snuck up behind Lewis and hit the Breath Mint (Forearm Smash) to the back of the head and rolled him up with a school girl pin and picked up the three count!
WINNER: Casey Grey, via pinfall @ 13:10
Alicia Monroe ran to the ring to celebrate with her cousin as the two hugged. Lewis looked around, confused at how the final moments of the match ended.
Scott Parker: I think the Kumquat Kid thought he had that match won.
Grey and Monroe celebrated in the ring before heading to the back as the show began to close.
Scott Parker: Well, ladies and gentlemen, it’s great to be back. For myself and my broadcast partner, Gemma Foster, we’ll see you in two weeks for the second Hype!
Before Scott could say another word the screen on the stage went to blue and silver static with a loud static noise filling the speakers. Finally, an outline of a fist came across the screen.
Last Call
“Lights Out” by POD hit the speakers as the crowd went insane.
Scott Parker: No way!
The hooded figure stepped out onto the stage but it wasn’t fooling anyone. AJ Adams had arrived to the EW Warehouse. He looked around with a smirk on his face as he slowly made his way down to the ring.
Gemma Foster: AJ Adams is in the house, Scott!
Adams rolled into the ring and reached out for a microphone. The crowd was deafening as they cheered for him.
AJ Adams: So I’m sure most of you are wondering what the heck is going on. Why am I here in EW? Why here? Why now? To me that answer is fairly simple. For years I’ve lived by two mantras. First, be prepared. Every time I’ve stepped through those ropes I’ve been prepared to make the match my last. Second, how will I leave my legacy? I couldn’t let my legacy be defined and ended with how things ended for me in the BWF. So here I am, right here inside this Warehouse where magic is about to happen. I see talent here that makes me generally excited to be stepping back into the ring. Talent that’s going to put on amazing matches to help me write a new chapter to my legacy. It’s time to announce that I’ve officially signed a contract with Empire Wrestling.
There’s a loud cheer from the fans as Adams looks around.
AJ Adams: It doesn’t matter who steps in my way or what I have to do to get to the top once again, but I’ll find a way.
Voice: You know, AJ, I couldn’t agree more.
The fans and AJ are all confused as he’s being cut off. He looks up to the stage and the fans are shocked as Emily Corlen makes her way out to the stage.
Gemma Foster: That’s Emily Corlen!
Corlen walks and talks at the same time.
Emily Corlen: We live in a “what have you done for me lately” world so everything you say makes perfect sense. Legacy. It’s something that defines your career. I’m also at a point in my career where I have to think about what legacy I’m leaving behind.
Corlen has climbed up the steel steps and takes a step into the ring.
Emily Corlen: For the first time in possibly forever, AJ, we’re on the same page. I’ve been thinking and mulling things over and I decided that coming to EW is going to be the perfect place to write the perfect closing chapter on my career. That’s why, this morning, I signed a deal with Empire Wrestling.
There’s large cheers from the fans.
Emily Corlen: Together, AJ, we can forge a legacy that puts others to shame. We’ve never been on the same page but now, let’s prove we’re the best.
AJ looks over at Emily and gives her a big of a smile before the two shake hands to the delight of the crowd. Adams tries to walk away but gets blasted from behind with a hard clothesline and the fans urrupt with boos. Corlen begins to lay into Adams with hard kicks.
Scott Parkers: What the hell is this!?
Corlen tosses Adams out of the ring and goes after him. She sends him hard into the steel steps and then hard into the announcers table. Parker and Foster scatter as Corlen looks under the ring for something. AJ tries to get up but gets leveled with a hard chair to the skull. Corlen goes back under the ring and finds what it is she wants. A container of gasoline. Trainers have run down and are pleading for Corlen to stop. Corlen empties the container onto the announcers table and strikes a match, lighting it on fire. Adams staggers to his feet before taking a hard chairshot to the head again. Corlen grabs the steel steps and sets them up to where she can stand closer to the fire. The fans are chanting “holy shit” as Corlen lifts Adams up. The trainers plead some more as Corlen gets Adams up. She lifts him above her head and hits a big powerbomb, through the announce table on fire! EMTs and trainers work quickly to put out the first. Corlen leans over to Scott and Gemma and says…
Emily Corlen: There’s a new Order in professional wrestling and you’re all going to feel the burn!
The crowd is shocked as the camera pans around AJ on the ground, not moving, as we pan back to Corlen and then away.
Quick Results:
Katie Shelley def. Alicia Monroe and Billy Way
Talia Areano def. Hailey Harris
Zoey Mathews-Mitchell and Alex Silver went no contest
Bailey Mayhew def. Ash Fi
Daniel Daemon def. Jace Markum
Ollie Maverick def. Azurine Vebbins
FM Young def. Brent Bradley
Casey Grey def. Ryan Lewis and Kurt Hullum
Katie Shelley def. Alicia Monroe and Billy Way
Talia Areano def. Hailey Harris
Zoey Mathews-Mitchell and Alex Silver went no contest
Bailey Mayhew def. Ash Fi
Daniel Daemon def. Jace Markum
Ollie Maverick def. Azurine Vebbins
FM Young def. Brent Bradley
Casey Grey def. Ryan Lewis and Kurt Hullum