Post by Jim Houston on Sept 22, 2019 12:34:17 GMT
The show opens with a video package highlighting the main events from the Free-1 finale.
MW: Marcus Allen Jones finally dispatches The Invaders!
MAJ: I can finally move on and I can see the next step in the road.
MW: I don’t believe it! Hunter Killer are back in FPW and TakeOver is almost back to full strength.
“Your winner and new Freedom and Women’s Champion: Elizabeth Karlson!”
MW: That was incredible!
MW: The Guardians of Strong Style have just become the first ever two-time champions here in FPW.
MW: Davey Jones retains.
MW: What are TakeOver doing here?
SD: Yes, Watson! A new TakeOver, headed by Jack Sevren!
SD: What could be more dangerous to everyone else in FPW?
Botiatus: I breat Graham Baker, and as far as I can tell, that puts me at the front of the line to get a shot at that.
MW: This match will set one of these men on the path to the main even of Judgement Day II.
DB: The Eternal Student… Jace Mason!
DB: The Ace of Freedom Pro Wrestling… Graham Baker!
Baker: You don’t belong in this match.
MW: Baker is looking more focussed than I’ve ever seen him before.
SD: Baker has already damaged Mason’s arm and he’s like a shark with the scent of blood when he senses weakness in an arm.
MW: Jace Mason crashes and burns like I’ve never seen before.
MW: This could seriously shorten the match for Jace Mason.
SD: Not just the match!
MW: Look at Mason’s arm!
MW: Graham Baker can’t be too far off getting the submission now.
MW: That was an ingenious counter from Jace Mason!
SD: Mason has never kicked out of that move before!
MW: That arm must be hanging by a thread.
MW: Was that the first time anyone has ever kicked out of Extra Credit?
MW: Mason counters! Top rope Extra Credit!
SD: I don’t believe what I’ve just seen!
MW: Mason with the arm over Baker… one.. two… three! Jace Mason wins it!
SD: A star is born tonight.
The video ends on a shot of Jace Mason holding up the Free-1 trophy before Mike Watson and Steven Deville introduce us to the show.
MW: After a three week break for the FPW roster to recover from the hard slog that is the Free-1, we return on the Road to Dead Man’s Chest!
SD: Dead Man’s Chest is one of the biggest matches of the year and one of the best opportunities for FPW stars that there is. Tonight we find out two more entrants to add to Jack Sevren, who we already know has entered this match.
MW: Indeed we will find out two more entrants as Artemis Evans faces Danica Jane in a Free-1 rematch and our main event tonight will see Go Shihei and Aaron Williams face off in a match which I think has top-level potential.
SD: But tonight we begin with our former Tag Team Champions Death Squad, who have… some issues they’ve been working out.
MW: They certainly do. They lost the Tag Team Championships to Guardians of Strong Style in a wild deathmatch which seemingly ended their series of matches- for now at least- and Ava Knight and Aiden Balmer seem to have identified Evan Rorsche as a weak link in the team.
SD: Ava Knight is ruthless. She’s cut out the dead wood and honestly I feel sorry for the Baxter Brothers tonight as they look to gain some momentum before the tag team gauntlet series which starts in two weeks’ time at Dead Man’s Chest.
MW: Well The Baxter Brothers are ready and waiting, let’s get this match started.
As the Baxter Brothers settle in for their match against Death Squad, the lights in the arena go out and the claxon plays out...but no one appears on the entrance ramp as ‘Beast’ by Nico Vega plays out. Instead, there’s a sound of brawling in the ring, and as the lights go back on, Aiden Balmer stands over Jordan Baxter in the ring with two persons flanking him while Ava Knight hangs loosely on the apron. The referee tries to get in Balmer’s face, but Balmer quickly sizes him up, growling ‘start the match, now.’
With no other options, and Billy Baxter nowhere to be found, the referee rings the bell.
Match 1: The Baxter Brothers vs. Death Squad (written by Baker):
Balmer steps back and out of the ring as the two other individuals look to one another and nod, not removing their extra entrance gear before they grab Jordan and haul him up into the air, the taller-and more obviously male-member grabbing Jordan up onto his shoulders while the other lines up, nodding-and the male member runs forward and HAULS Jordan into the turnbuckles while the other member rushes forward with a massive back elbow to Jordan before the male member responds with a leaping high knee! Jordan Baxter falls to the ground, and the male member grabs him in position for a Double Chicken Wing, holding him up as the other member rushes forward for a Codebreaker-AND THEY DROP HIM! The male member goes for a cover, although if the referee was paying attention to any form of legality in the match, they don’t show it as they go for the count.
ONE!
TWO!!
THREE!!!
Winners: Death Squad (1:28)
.
Before Death Squad can celebrate their win, Billy Baxter, who was unconscious on the outside, hits the ring and runs forward, but Balmer cuts him down with a lariat before he even gets close. The male member of Death Squad removes his mask and vest, revealing greasy hair and a short beard as well as a stocky form. Balmer tosses Billy to the new member, who hauls Baxter high AND SLAMS HIM DOWN WITH A GIBSON DRIVER, immediately transitioning into a Boston Crab! Baxter looks to be in agony as Ava Knight begins speaking, while the other member of Death Squad removes their mask, revealing a female face with long red-and-black hair.
“One head is cut off, and two more spring up to take its place.” Ava Knight muses, watching as Baxter squirms. “George Mercer, my walking torment.” She looks to Aiden Balmer. “Aiden Balmer, my fiercest weapon.” Finally, she looks to the woman, who taunts Baxter as he’s held down. “...and Mary Downing, my uncaged fury.” She looks back toward the crowd.
“You thought the Guardians had vanquished us, sent us elsewhere...but Death cannot be beaten. Death cannot be escaped. Death reigns...and after tonight, Death seeks their final opportunity at the Freedom Pro Wrestling Tag Team Championships. Jim Houston, give us our deserved spot...or feel unending agony.”
With this, Knight drops the microphone as Baxter taps out, screaming in pain before Mercer lets him go. Downing spits in his face, and Death Squad pose around the ring on the turnbuckles as the crowd boos them.
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Backstage, Jerry Bishop sits in a locker room. Bobby O walks up to him.
BO: Hey Jer! I’m surprised you’re here tonight.
JB: Yeah, me and-
BO: It’s good see you again. It’s been a little while since I’ve heard from you. All good with the limey prick?
JB: Well…
BO: What?
JB: As a matter of fact, things aren’t so good.
BO: What’s that bastard done now?
JB: He’s gone.
BO: Gone?
JB: Yeah. He found out that you and I went out that other day and he kind of blew a gasket about it.
BO: And he left?
JB: Yuh-huh.
BO: Then let’s celebrate! With him gone, we can… what’s wrong?
JB: No, it’s just…
BO: Come on! You should be jumping for joy with that prick out of the picture! Return of The Jester! The Friendmigo rides again. This is exactly what you need. Let’s get the shakes in.
JB: I don’t really feel like it.
BO: The guy made your life a living hell. Wake up, train, watch tape, sleep, repeat, right? And you still didn’t win the Free-1. You’re much better off on your own. Hey! I’ve got an idea. Come with me!
JB: I don’t really-
BO: Come on. We’re going to the ring. When the Freedom Fighters see you without him, they’ll give you the loudest damn cheer you’ve ever heard. Come on.
JB: Alright, but…
Bobby hauls Jerry up and they head out the door and down the corridor, only for MDE to walk up to them and block their way.
BO: You!
MDE: I could say the same to you. I see you made your choice, Jerry.
JB: I…
BO: Yeah, he’s made his choice. And so did you. Get out of the way. We’re celebrating The Jester tonight.
JB: Bobby, can I-
MDE: Orton, if you want to be responsible for Jerry’s career being the failure that it was before I got involved, then by all means carry on. But you know as well as I do what he could be. If you’re really his friend like you say and not just here for an ego massage, get out the way and leave him to someone who knows what he’s doing.
BO: I’ve had about enough of-
JB: So have I! Both of you trying to talk for me like I’m not in the room. I can manage my own life. I want to be better than I am right now, but I don’t want to abandon the people I care about.
MDE: You can’t have it both ways, Jerry.
BO: For once I agree. If you choose him, you’re not the man I thought you were.
MDE: And if you choose him, you’re not the man you could become.
JB: I don’t have to choose…
MDE and BO: You do.
MDE and Bobby stare at each other with Jerry looking back and forth between the two.
JB: I… I…
BO: You know what? I have an idea. Me and the limey prick in the ring, one on one. Dead Man’s Chest. I’ll prove to you whose way is better.
MDE: You’re on Orton.
Bobby and MDE move forward while Jerry tries to keep them apart.
JB: It doesn’t have to end like this. It really doesn’t.
BO: I’m sorry Jerry, but it’s the only way I can prove to you that you’re better off with me.
JB: No. I don’t want-
MDE: Jerry, you need to make a choice. My way or his. There’s no middle ground. That gives me an idea…
MDE smiles and looks over Jerry’s shoulder into Bobby’s eyes.
MDE: Me and you, Orton. One on one. With Jerry as referee. You have to make the choice, Jerry. And now there’s no choice but to make it.
Jerry stares wide-eyed at both of them as they continue to face off.
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MW: Well that will be quite some match.
SD: And Jerry Bishop will finally make the biggest decision of his career. The man who almost won him the Free-1 or the man who cost him the Free-1. There’s only one choice to make.
MW: Is there? Jerry is choosing between a past that he loved and a future that he desires. How can he ever truly make that choice with confidence?
SD: All I know is that in two weeks’ time we’ll know who Jerry Bishop really is.
MW: Well let’s move on to a match which will also affect something in two weeks’ time. Artemis Evans laid out the challenge to Danica Jane for this match after Danica defeated her in the Free-1.
SD: Arty dominated the match but was maybe a little too confident. Clutch came in and cost Arty the points and now she gets the chance to make up for that and to qualify for the Dead Man’s Chest match.
MW: Evans certainly did dominate Danica Jane in their last match, but I don’t think she’ll be taking it so lightly this time round. Can Danica Jane compete with the former Women’s Champion tonight?
SD: She’s obviously been training so she’ll bring something to the match, but honestly I’m not sure she can. Arty is one of the best pure wrestlers here and I think she’s about to explode big time in FPW.
MW: Well let’s find out as we get to our first Dead Man’s Chest qualifying match.
“Ladies and gentlemen, the following contest is scheduled for one fall and is a qualifying match for the Dead Man’s Chest ladder match. Introducing first, from Los Angeles, California and being accompanied to the ring by Richard Crowley, Danica Jane!”
‘This Fire Burns’ begins and Danica Jane emerges to a fairly quiet reception. She makes her way down the ramp with a purpose, ignoring any of the fans who either offer their hands or talk trash to her. As she reaches the ring, she climbs the steps and steps through the ropes before climbing to the top and looking around the arena. She then leaps down and limbers up in one corner as Dasha Banks raises the mic to her lips again.
“And her opponent, from Manchester, England, she is a former FPW Women’s Champion, ‘The Glory Huntress’, Artemis Evans!”
‘Checkmate’ echoes around the arena as the white queen appears on the tron. ‘Hammer to Fall’ plays and Evans walks onto the stage as the fans begin to boo her loudly. She smirks and then spreads her arms as pyro goes off on each side of her. Evans then makes her way down the ramp, talking trash with fans and even grabbing an ‘Elizabeth Karlson Rocks’ sign and tearing it up. She then climbs onto the apron and leaps over the top rope before shoving past Danica Jane and climbing the top rope, extending her arms and tilting her head back to soak in the boos once again.
Match 2: Dead Man’s Chest Qualifier: Danica Jane vs. Artemis Evans:
The bell rings and the two women come forward, Jane looking to lock up but Evans grabbing her arm as she comes in and locking in a hammerlock. She transitions into a headlock and takes Jane over, pushing up with her hips to apply more pressure. She releases the hold and sits Jane up before landing a hard thrust kick to the side of her head and making an early cover, 1-2-no. Jane manages to kick out. Evans pulls her up and whips her into the corner, following her in with a running forearm. Jane staggers out of the corner and Evans grabs her by the hair before driving a knee into her gut and taking her down with an axe kick. She makes another cover, 1-2-no. Again Jane manages to kick out.
Evans pulls Jane up again, hooking her arm for a suplex and pulling her up, but Jane drops down behind Evans and kicks her knee out before hitting the ropes and connecting with a sliding clothesline. She makes a cover, 1-no. Evans kicks out quickly. Both women get to their feet and Jane aims a head kick, but Evans catches it. She forces the leg down and, in the same motion, grabs Jane by the head and connects with a DDT. Evans makes another cover, 1-2-no. Again Jane manages to kick out. Evans stands, extending her arms as the boos rain down on her, before pulling Jane up again. She sets her into position for an inverted STO but Jane elbows her way out. Evans staggers away and, when she turns back to Jane, Jane catches her for a belly to belly suplex.
MW: Danica Jane showing some fight in this match.
SD: But Arty is clearly the better of the two.
MW: I don’t deny that one bit, but Danica Jane can go.
SD: She can. But can she string enough together to threaten winning the match? I’m not sure she can.
Jane stands and waits for Evans, who pulls herself up slowly. With Evans not quite vertical, Jane takes her down with a swinging neck breaker and then lays in a kick as Evans sits up. Evans drops to the mat and Jane, instead of going for a cover, pulls her up. She then takes her down with a snapmare and hits the ropes, coming back with a shining wizard. The fans begin to get excited as Jane makes a cover again, 1-2-no. Evans kicks out. Jane pushes back up to her feet and stalks Evans again. As Evans stands, Jane looks for a jumping corkscrew roundhouse kick, but Evans ducks it and, with Jane on her knees, Evans takes her down with a running Silver Bullet. She makes a cover, 1-2-no! Jane just manages to get her shoulder up.
Evans looks down at Jane in disbelief before driving a forearm into her face, much to the chagrin of the fans. Evans talks some trash to the booing crowd before pulling Jane to her feet. She then hooks Jane into position and delivers a Guillotine Strike, making the cover without bothering to hook a leg, 1-2-3.
Winner: Artemis Evans (5:13).
MW: Artemis Evans is into the Dead Man’s Chest match.
SD: And I think she’s going to win it.
MW: It’s not beyond the realms of possibility. She’s been a champion here before and she’s had some impressive victories. If Evans is at her best, she’s tough to beat.
Evans stands and extends her arms once again as she receives more boos from the crowd. Jane rolls out of the ring and is helped up the ramp by Richard Crowley as Evans climbs the top turnbuckle and talks trash about winning the Dead Man’s Chest.
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Backstage, Jim Houston is in his office typing up something on his laptop when there is a knock at the door.
JH: Come in.
The door opens and Berry Bishop enters, looking nervous.
JH: Berry. Pleasure to see you. What can I do for you?
BB: Um… well… I think… um…
JH: What is it?
BB (rushing her words): I-think-I’ve-had-a-good-year-here-so-far-so-I’d-like-to-be-in-the-Dead-Man’s-Chest-match-please.
JH (with a chuckle): I’m not sure I caught that. Relax.
BB: Well, I just wanted to ask… because I think I’ve had a pretty good year so far… can I have a spot in the Dead Man’s Chest match? I think I’ve started to prove myself this year and I’d really like the chance to step up some more, y’know?
JH: Thank you for asking. I’d be delighted to offer you a spot in the Dead Man’s Chest match, Berry. You have proved yourself a very good wrestler and a very talented one at that. You’ll be a strong addition to the match. I was rather expecting a request for a rematch with Elizabeth Karlson if I’m honest.
BB: Well… I’d like to face Liz again. She didn’t pin me after all, but I’m sure I’ll get one soon enough. This is a chance which is too good to pass up.
JH: I’m glad you think so. Is there anything else I can do for you?
BB: Actually…
JH: Go on.
BB: Are you really going to make Jerry be the referee in that match?
JH: One way or another, this Jerry, MDE and Bobby thing needs to come to a head. We can’t keep having them at each other’s throats. It’s not great for Jerry, but maybe this is the best solution. So yes, I do plan to have Jerry in the middle for this match.
BB: Oh… ok then. I guess I’ll see you in two weeks.
JH: Goodbye, Berry.
Berry opens the door to leave but almost walks straight into Marcus Allen Jones.
BB: Oh, hi.
Houston looks up and beckons Marcus in. He enters as Berry leaves.
JH: Marcus. What can I do for you?
MAJ: Last time I was at an FPW show, I thought I’ve vanquished TakeOver for good, and then I ended up getting the crap beaten out of me and found out that Jack Sevren was leading TakeOver 2.0. Now I hear he’s in the Dead Man’s Chest match?
JH: He is. I understand your concerns about that and I didn’t take the decision lightly. I have to do-
MAJ: I want in too.
JH: I thought you might say that.
MAJ: The Free-1 was my chance to get a title shot and getting a title shot was all I cared about. I still want that but I also care about making sure Sevren doesn’t get one. I know what TakeOver can do because I already did most of it myself. I want to get into the match to make sure Sevren doesn’t win that Dead Man’s Chest. If I win it, all’s the better, but right now, it’s ABS- anyone but Sevren.
JH: I understand that. I’m willing to support that. So that makes it Jack Sevren, Artemis Evans, Berry Bishop, Marcus Allen Jones and the winner of Go Shihei versus Aaron Williams. Quite the line-up if you ask me.
Marcus nods and then simply turns and leaves. Houston walks up to the door and looks down the corridor to see if anyone else is coming to request a spot, before closing the door.
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MW: That Dead Man’s Chest match is shaping up to be a good one.
SD: I’m sure sparks will fly between Marcus and Jack Sevren. The two TakeOver leaders going toe to toe at the top of a ladder… it’s what dreams are made of!
MW: Maybe yours. But true dreams are like the dream which came true three weeks ago. Jace Mason entered the Free-1 hoping for a good showing, hoping to raise his stock a little. He came through a block which featured incredible talents and beat arguably the greatest FPW wrestler ever in the final. And he’s waiting behind the curtain right now to give his thoughts as he begins his build to what will undoubtedly be the biggest match of his life. I’ve been looking forward to this as we haven’t seen or heard from Jace Mason since he defeated Graham Baker to win the 2019 Free-1 in what was undoubtedly a match of the year contender. Steven, can I get your opinion on what’s about to happen?
SD: I’m just as excited as you are. Jace wasn’t my pick to win the tournament, and to be honest, he’s never been my favorite here in FPW, but he won me over during that incredible war with Graham Baker. I’ll be very interested in what he says to follow up such a performance.
‘Afterlife’ played from the arena speakers, and the fans grew quiet in anticipation, then exploded into cheers as the intro concluded and Jace Mason stepped through the curtain, holding the Free-1 trophy in the air. He stood there at the top of the ramp for a moment, looking out into the audience of cheering fans with a smile on his face. He began walking towards the ring, high-fiving and exchanging words with the fans in the front row. He also stopped and let a young fan hold the Free-1 trophy for a moment before taking it back and placing it in the ring. He climbed in after and received a microphone from a crewmember. ‘Afterlife’ cut out, allowing the loud chant of “MA-SON MA-SON MA-SON” to fill the arena. He raised the microphone and prepared to speak, but the chant got louder, drowning him out. Jace chuckled and looked down, clearly moved by the response.
As the noise inevitably began to die down, he raised the mic again. “Thank you for that.” The crowd cheered again, and Jace had to lower his mic once again. “You have no idea what this means to me. The guaranteed title match is great and all, but this is honestly the best part of winning the Free-1. It’s knowing that I’ve earned this reception, the reception that I could only dream about just a year ago. Because just a year ago, I didn’t believe in myself. And no offense to any of you, but I don’t think you believed in me either. And why should you? I could put on good matches, sure, but whenever I got an opportunity, I blew it. I couldn’t hold up against the pressure when the stakes were highest. And as you all know, and are probably getting tired of hearing by now, this lack of belief in myself cause me to intentionally miss the first Free-1.”
“But then, in the year between the Free-1, something happened. Well, two things actually. One was that you guys started believing in me, and the other is that I started believing in myself. I’m not sure exactly when this happened, or which happened first, but that belief carried me to claiming the FPW Hardcore championship, my first ever singles title. That belief carried me to a long reign with that title, a reign that saw me go to war against Jimmy Havoc, a reign that saw the title transform from the Hardcore title to the Freedom title. And when I was eventually bested and lost that championship, that belief carried me into the 2019 Free-1, and eventually, it carried me to holding this trophy!” He raised the Free-1 trophy over his head again, to another chorus of cheers.
“A lot of people have asked me what I’m going to do now that I’ve won the Free-1. Well I’ve already done the most important thing. I called my parents, called my friends, called my coach, everyone who’s ever believed in me on this journey, and I thanked them for that belief. And now it’s time to thank all of you for your belief in me.” He raised the microphone as the crowd applauded, but then as he brought the mic back down, the lights suddenly went out. There’s some nervous laughter as the crowd thinks it’s some sort of power outage, but that ends when a spotlight shines on the stage and Clutch McCloud walks out, wearing a fancy suit, microphone in hand. The crowd boos as the lights come back on and Clutch raises the mic to speak, but he ignores them, speaking to Jace.
“Jace, I have to hand it to you, you might not be that great a wrestler, but you’re one hell of a speaker.” He began walking down the ramp as he continued. Hearing you talk about how your lack of belief caused you to miss opportunities, and that all it took was a little bit of belief to take advantage of them, it really struck a chord with me. I’ve realized that I’ve also missed out on a lot of opportunities. And I think I see one of them here tonight and I’m not going to miss out on this one.” He climbs onto the apron, staring a hole through Jace, who hasn’t moved from the center of the ring. “You see, you and I were in different Free-1 blocks, therefore-”
“Hold it!” another voice suddenly rings out from the speakers. Both Jace and Clutch look around, trying to find the new speaker. “Not another word from you Clutch.” Russ Bolt emerges from the crowd, a determined expression on his face. He slid into the ring and stood next to Jace, facing off against Clutch. “You might have some opportunities to take advantage of, but I have some unfinished business with someone I thought was a friend. I’m back, and I’m here to make things right.”
And then Russ suddenly turns and hammers Jace across the head with his mic! Jace crumpled, and Russ moved in, kicking aside the fallen Free-1 trophy and laying into Jace with repeated stomps. A smile spreads across Clutch’s face as he steps into the ring. He takes off his jacket and carefully drapes it over the top rope, then motions for Russ to lift Jace up. Russ does so, holding Jace’s arms behind him. Jace glares into Clutch’s eyes before Clutch begins unloading, driving his fists into Jace’s body again and again. Clutch backed up and then Russ shoved Jace forward into a quick Technical Foul from Clutch. Jace went down, Clutch stood over him with a smirk on his face. Russ bent down and lifted Jace’s head off the mat, taking trash, when Aaron Williams appeared onstage, running down the ramp! Clutch saw him coming and fled the ring, while Russ had to stand up and look for the threat. His eyes widened as Aaron slid into the ring and levelled him with a forearm. Russ hit the mat, and Aaron looked to continue the offense, but Clutch dragged Russ from the ring and helped him to his feet.
MW: “Aaron Williams here to save his friend Jace Mason after Clutch McCloud and Russ Bolt-”
SD: “After they laid a clever trap and brutalized the winner of the Free-1. Clutch came out here to capitalize on an opportunity, and it seems Russ Bolt is here to help him achieve that, what’s the problem with that Watson?”
MW: “What’s the problem?! Jace was out here delivering a heartfelt speech to the people he feels he owes his success, and these two monsters interrupt the moment, that’s the problem!”
Back in the ring, Aaron had helped Jace to his feet, and the two of them exchanged words. Aaron bent down and picked up the Free-1 trophy, staring at it for a moment before he handed it back to Jace, prompting cheers from the audience.
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Backstage, Elizabeth Karlson grabs a drink of water from a catering table as Vanessa Scott walks up to her.
EK: Get the fuck away from me, bitch.
VS: Jealous?
EK: Jealous? You may think you’re all that but let’s see who’s jealous of who when I slap those pretty white teeth out of your mouth in two weeks’ time.
VS: As if you could. I told you I’m going to have that pretty belt of your around my perfectly sculpted waist sooner rather than later. It’s wasted on you.
Karlson steps right up to Scott as several members of security come close by.
EK: The only thing going around your waist will be trainer’s tape after I break your fucking ribs. You want to take this Freedom Championship? Some people seem to be forgetting that the stipulation of this belt is that the champion gets to choose the type of match in which it’s defended. So you’d better be ready for a straight up street fight.
VS: What is that supposed to do? Scare me? You know I’m always ready to get a little… hardcore. Don’t kid yourself, Karlson. You might be a big deal around here now, but these people have never seen a woman like me before and as soon as they do see me, they’ll forget all about you.
Scott slaps Karlson across the face and the security personnel quickly pull them apart. Scott winks at one as she sees him checking her out, while Karlson scratches and claws to get at her.
VS: Don’t waste your time, Karlson. I’ve got better places to be and far better people to be with than you. See you soon, though…
Scott walks away as Ava McGuinness walks towards Kalrson.
AM: You ok?
EK: Ok? The fuck I’m ok. You know what… get in the fucking ring. I’ll show you ok.
AM: I…
EK: Get to the fucking ring. Now!
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MW: We’ve just seen one of the newest additions to the FPW roster, Vanessa Scott, there. She comes with quite the reputation.
SD: …
MW: Steven?
SD: …
MW: Steven!
SD: Sorry! Sorry… I’ve… I think I’ve just gone to heaven!
MW: Oh God, not again. Well Ava McGuinness is walking down the ramp right now and I’m not sure this is the best thing for her to be doing at the moment. Still, I suppose she doesn’t have much choice.
SD: I’d rather face an angry Karlson in the ring than in the back. Talking of backs, did you see Vanessa Scott’s a-
MW: Let’s not.
As the match starts with Ava McGuinness in the ring, ‘Turn it On’ by Sleater Kinney plays out as Liz Karlson emerges on the entrance ramp, her Renegade vest on and prominent as she holds her FPW Freedom Championship high to a mixed ovation from the Freedom Pro fans in attendance.
Match 3: Elizabeth Karlson v Ava McGuinness (written by Baker):
Karlson drops the vest on the entrance ramp as she approaches the ring, rolling under the bottom rope and immediately launching into a fierce lockup with McGuiness, but it’s a brief contest as Karlson’s able to quickly rotate into a waistlock, dropping McGuiness with a German Suplex before hitting the ropes on the rebound, nailing her in the face with a running knee to the head! Ava tries to recover before Karlson can rock her with another shot, but she’s a bit too slow as Liz grabs her for another Suplex, this time a Deadlift variant! She nails Ava into the canvas with a deadlift German Suplex, before following up with a Mushroom Stomp to Ava, but she’s not done yet, heading to the corner as Ava tries to get back to her feet. Karlson waves her on, rushing forward, bounding off a step-up-STEP UP AXE KICK! FULL FUCKIN’ FORCE TO THE HEAD OF AVA MCGUINNESS! Karlson goes for a cover!
ONE!
TWO!!
THREE!!!
Winner: Elizabeth Karlson (1:37)
.
MW: Well that didn’t last long.
SD: Karlson sending a message to Va…
MW: Steven?
SD: Sorry, I just pictured her again.
MW: You need to get help.
SD: I need to get her!
MW: Good luck with that. Well, Elizabeth Karlson will face Vanessa Scott in two weeks’ time and she’s already looking in an aggressive mood.
Karlson picks up the Freedom Championship, watching as McGuinness is helped back up the ramp. She holds it up and draws a thumb across her throat before rolling under the bottom rope and making her way up the ramp. As she does, ‘DNA’ begins to play and the fans react noisly, mostly with boos. Karlson stops as Graham Baker and Kate Mustang walk down the ramp. As they meet, Karlson gives Baker a nod, but he doesn’t even look at her. Mustang gives Karlson a look as she passes and Karlson thinks twice about confronting her before walking back up the ramp. Baker climbs into the ring and demands a mic.
“If you’re waiting for an explanation of what happened in the Free-1 final… you’re going home unhappy tonight.”
The fans boo Baker but he continues talking.
“I’ve come out here for one thing and one thing only. Davey Jones is the FPW Champion but everyone knows I’m the Ace of Freedom Pro Wrestling.”
The fans boos some more.
“And as the fucking Ace of Freedom Pro Wrestling, I should be holding the Championship, just like I’m holding these two other belts.”
Baker holds up the ALPHA Wrestling Championship and ICW Championship, the fans booing again.
“Seeing as I’m not going to be given a match against Jones, I’m informing you all that I’m entering the Dead Man’s Chest match. I’m not asking. I’m not making a request. I’m not having a fucking qualifying match. I’m entering. And I’m winning.”
Baker drops the mic and holds up a middle finger to the fans before leaving the ring with Mustang.
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MW: Well we now have pour sixth entrant into the Dead Man’s Chest match, a match which now contains two former FPW Champions, the leader of TakeOver 2.0, a former Freedom Champion and a former Women’s Champion, as well as the winner of our next match between Aaron Williams and Go Shihei.
SD: And a great match it should be. Williams was perhaps the biggest star of the Free-1, putting on classics with Jace Mason and Marcus Allen Jones, and Go Shihei, with the backing of the woman we have just seen with Graham Baker, can defeat anyone he likes on his day.
MW: We’ve already seen Williams once tonight, but I’m sure his focus will be entirely on this match.
SD: He did look at that Free-1 trophy for quite some time, though. He has to have an eye on it as he was one of just two people to defeat Jace Mason in the Free-1.
MW: Maybe, but you know he’ll be itching to get into a ladder match. He’s been in many classic ladder wars over the years and the prize in this one is too good to pass up. Let’s get down to the ring.
“Ladies and gentlemen, the following contest is scheduled for one fall and is a qualifying match for the Dead Man’s Chest ladder match. Introducing first, a former two-time Ring of Honour World Champion, from Philadelphia, Pennsylvania… Aaron Williams!”
‘I Still Believe’ begins to play and Aaron Williams emerges to a very loud pop. He sings along loudly and very soon has the entire arena singing with him as he makes his way down the ramp, slapping hands with as many fans as he can. Williams circles the ring before pulling a Sharpie out and handing it to a young fan, who writes ‘Williams = F-1 GOAT’. Williams smiles and then slides into the ring, shaking hands with the official and with Dasha Banks before climbing the turnbuckle and leading the fans to sing the final few lines as the song fades out.
“And his opponent, hailing from Osaka, Japan and being accompanied to the ring by Kate Mustang, ‘Holy Fury’… Go Shihei!”
‘Fury, Oh Fury’ begins to play and Shihei is met with a reaction of mostly boos as he emerges, Mustang following just behind. Shihei walks down the ramp, ignoring the fans as he beats himself on the chest and slaps himself on the head. He reaches the ring and walks up the steps, climbing through the ropes and into the ring, where he steps up to Aaron Williams as the two of them stand eye to eye. Williams pulls back first, nodding at the impressive size of Shihei as Mustang talks some trash about Williams not being able to measure up.
Match 4: Dead Man’s Chest Qualifier: Aaron Williams v Go Shihei:
As the bell rings, both men come forward and lock up, Shihei forcing Williams back into the ropes. He continues to force Williams backwards as the official comes in and calls for a clean break. Shihei slowly breaks his grip and Williams stays back, wary of Shihei not breaking clean. As Shihei steps back, he lands a huge overhand chop to Williams’ chest, causing Williams to reel away from the ropes in pain. Shihei follows him and drives him into the corner, where he lands knife-edged chops, each echoing around the arena and causing Williams to grimace in pain. After four such chops, Shihei aims a fifth, but Williams manages to drop down under it and escape from the corner, aiming a chop of his own which Shihei completely shrugs off.
Shihei advances on Williams again, but this time Williams quickly drops down behind him and locks in a waistlock, looking to lift Shihei but struggling due to his immense bulk. Shihei grips Williams’ hands and pulls them apart, maintaining his grip and spinning, trapping Williams in a straightjacket and planting him with a straightjacket German suplex. Shihei then stands and lifts Williams with him, driving him back into the corner. This time, instead of chops, he lands a standing lariat and then unloads several more, causing Williams to drop down to a seated position. Shihei drops back to the opposite corner and runs at Williams, turning at the last minute and backing into him with full force, causing his head to snap back. Shihei drags Williams out of the corner and covers him, 1-2-no. Williams kicks out.
MW: This match is not quite going how I’d imagined in the early stages.
SD: Go Shihei has come out pumped up and ready. We heard from Kate Mustang that she wanted him in the Dead Man’s Chest match and it looks like she’s done an excellent job of preparing him for it.
MW: She certainly has. Aaron Williams is a masterful tactician though. I’ll be interested to see how he looks to get back into this match.
Shihei pulls Williams off the canvas again and whips him into the ropes, taking him down with a clothesline as he bounces back at him. Williams hits the mat hard and Shihei moves to his legs, hooking them onto his shoulders and pulling Williams up, looking for a powerbomb. Williams, however, fights Shihei with forearms to the head which allow him to free his legs and drop down before unleashing a volley of leg kicks and ending with a hard mid kick which sends Shihei staggering into the corner. Williams charges at him and connects with a big splash, then backs away to the corner and comes again and again. Shihei remains standing, so Williams lands another big splash, and then a fifth, but Shihei still remains on his feet in the corner. Williams stares him down before shrugging his shoulders and keeping the attack going, landing another three big splashes before Shihei finally drops down to a seated position. Williams then backs away, catches his breath for a moment, and charges at Shihei, landing an impactful cannonball. Shihei rolls away towards the middle of the ring and Williams climbs up to the top, landing a swan-ton bomb and holding for a cover, 1-2-no! Shihei just kicks out.
Williams pulls himself up on the ropes, still feeling the impact of Shihei’s powerful striking. He calls for Shihei to stand and then positions himself behind Shihei. He lands a discus clothesline to Shihei’s back before hitting the ropes and then connecting with another discus clothesline to his front. Shihei staggers but doesn’t go down! Williams stares at him before hitting the ropes and landing a running knee strike which sends Shihei to one knee. Williams stares at him again and hits the ropes once again, looking for another running knee strike, but Shihei catches him and delivers a huge powerbomb! Shihei stacks Williams up, 1-2-no. Williams kicks out.
MW: Aaron Williams with a trademark flurry there and still ends up having to kick out.
SD: Go Shihei is as strong a man as we have here in FPW. It takes a lot to get him off his feet and even more to keep him there.
MW: And now Shihei is back on his feet and it’s Williams who’s struggling to get up.
Shihei shakes off the damage from Williams and watches as Williams pushes up to a vertical base. Shihei doesn’t waste much time, pulling Williams in for a big Saito suplex before pulling him for a deadlift Saito suplex. Shihei makes a cover, 1-2-no! Williams just manages to get a shoulder up. Shihei pulls Williams up straight away and sets him up for an exploder, but Williams counters with a desperation DDT. Shihei lies on the mat as Williams struggles to rise to his feet. After a few moments, both men are standing, and they advance towards one another in the centre of the ring. Williams throw a forearm which barely has any impact on Shihei. Shihei returns in kind and Williams staggers back a few steps. Williams, however, comes back with another, but the same result happens, Shihei throwing a second and Williams dropping back into the ropes.
Shihei comes charging in with a clothesline to Williams, sending both of them to the outside. Shihei pulls Williams to his feet and drives him back-first into the guardrail before landing a series of hard knife-edged chops. Williams manages to stagger away from the guardrail but Shihei charges at him, taking him down with a hard lariat to the back of the head. Shihei then pulls Williams up and drives another forearm to his face before whipping him into the guardrail- only for Williams to leap up and land with both feet on it. Shihei charges in but Williams backflips off the guardrail, causing Shihei to charge into it. The guardrail falls over and Shihei ends up with his head in an audience member’s lap. Williams quickly stands and orders the crowd to move aside. They do and, With Shihei resting with his head on the seat of the chair, Williams lands a running double knee strike.
MW: That’s a huge momentum shift for Williams in this match!
SD: It seems like it. Shihei went in a bit too hard and he’s paid for his mistake now.
MW: But can Aaron Williams capitalise. If he can get Shihei back in the ring, the match could be over straight away.
SD: But that’s a big man to lift and carry over to the ring. Williams may need to rest and recover for a few seconds here. Take advantage of the time he’s been given.
Williams staggers back to Shihei and, with difficulty, lifts him. He drags him slowly over to the ring and, with a big effort, rolls him back in. Williams follows, making the cover, 1-2-no! Shihei just gets a shoulder up. Williams stands, pulling himself to his feet and looking around the arena, who cheer for him. He reaches down and pulls Shihei up, hooking an arm over his head and lifting him, barely, for a vertical suplex, before dropping him over the top rope. Williams then climbs the turnbuckles, pointing down at Shihei before leaping off with a 450 splash! Both men crash to the canvas and Williams manages to drape an arm over Shihei, 1-2-no! Shihei just gets a shoulder up again.
Williams pulls himself up on the ropes once again and looks down at Shihei, who is struggling to get to his feet. Without hesitating, Williams pulls Shihei in and traps the arms, looking for A Triple Plus. He tries to lift Shihei but Shihei drops to a knee to make it even harder. Williams releases one of the arms and lands clubbing blows across the back, but Shihei hooks the arm under Williams’ leg, freeing his other and doing the same, pulling him up for another powerbomb. He throws Williams into the turnbuckles with a buckle bomb and, as Williams staggers back towards him, takes him down with a huge big boot. Shihei staggers for a moment before pointing to the top rope. The fans boo as he climbs slowly, Williams lying prone on the canvas beneath him. Shihei steadies himself before coming down with Year of the Toad, but Williams rolls out of the way!
MW: That would have ended this match for sure!
SD: Aaron Williams moved out of the way at the last possible second. This one is still alive, but for how long?
MW: I can’t imagine that either man will be able to carry on for much longer. Go Shihei isn’t renowned like Williams is for having long matches, because he really takes his toll on his opponents. If Williams is win this match, he has to get to his feet before Shihei can.
Both men crawl towards the ropes as they attempt to get to their feet. They each manage to pull themselves up and turn to face their opponent before staggering forward. Williams lands a forearm but again it has little impact. Shihei lands one of his own with much more impact than Williams’. Williams returns fire, but he clearly doesn’t have much left to give, and Shihei’s next forearm sends Williams backing into the ropes. However, he explodes off the ropes and lands a leaping knee strike to stagger Shihei before he takes him down with a mid-kick. Williams then roars as he lifts Shihei into a powerbomb position, pulling him up and then dropping him with a powerbomb backbreaker. He holds both legs after delivering the move, but he manages to roll over to make the cover, hooking the leg, 1-2-no! Shihei just gets a shoulder up again.
Williams bangs the canvas before forcing himself to get up one more time. He beckons Shihei to get up as well and, as he does, he drives a knee into his gut. He then sets him into position, hooking both arms, and lifting him for the A Triple Plus. Shihei, however, manages to use his momentum from being lifted to force Williams to stagger back and ultimately to drop backwards, landing Shihei on top of him. Shihei stands, freed from Williams’ grip and pulls Williams up. He lifts him into position for another powerbomb, hooking both arms as he looks for Dead Man’s Bomb. He pulls Williams up but Williams does the same as Shihei, causing him to overrotate and turning the move into a version of a Canadian destroyer. The fans scream with joy as Williams makes the cover, 1-2-no! Shihei barely forces his shoulder off the canvas.
Williams stands with a purpose, tensing himself and roaring for the crowd, who roar for him too. He pulls Shihei up and again looks to set him into position for A Triple Plus, hooking the arms, but he struggles to lift. With one big effort, he tries again, only for Shihei to free himself from Williams’ grip and land a massive headbutt, exploding from a crouching position. Williams staggers back into the corner and Shihei charges at him, crushing him with a big splash. Williams collapses to the floor and Shihei pulls him into position again, hooking the arms and dropping him with a Dead Man’s Bomb, holding for the cover, 1-2-3.
Winner: Go Shihei (18:53).
Mustang enters the ring and shoves the official aside as he tries to raise Shihei’s arm. Instead, she raises his arm as he looks down at Williams with a respectful nod. Mustang leads Shihei out of the ring as Williams tries to pull himself up, the fans giving him a standing ovation. As he finally stands, raising his hand to the crowd, Clutch McCloud and Russ Bolt charge into the ring, jumping Williams and laying the boots to him. Almost immediately, Jace Mason comes running down the ramp and Clutch and Russ scatter, leaving the ring as Mason takes a swing at them. With Clutch and Russ backing away up the ramp, Mason helps Williams up and grabs a mic.
“Clutch, Russ… you want to challenge me for this Free-1 shot? Prove that you deserve it. Me and Aaron teamed up for the All Star Tag Team Classic and I’m all for teaming with my friend again. Come and face us in the ring and we’ll see who deserves a shot at taking my Judgement Day II title match away from me.”
Mason drops the mic and he and Williams stare down Clutch and Russ to end the show.
MW: Marcus Allen Jones finally dispatches The Invaders!
MAJ: I can finally move on and I can see the next step in the road.
MW: I don’t believe it! Hunter Killer are back in FPW and TakeOver is almost back to full strength.
“Your winner and new Freedom and Women’s Champion: Elizabeth Karlson!”
MW: That was incredible!
MW: The Guardians of Strong Style have just become the first ever two-time champions here in FPW.
MW: Davey Jones retains.
MW: What are TakeOver doing here?
SD: Yes, Watson! A new TakeOver, headed by Jack Sevren!
SD: What could be more dangerous to everyone else in FPW?
Botiatus: I breat Graham Baker, and as far as I can tell, that puts me at the front of the line to get a shot at that.
MW: This match will set one of these men on the path to the main even of Judgement Day II.
DB: The Eternal Student… Jace Mason!
DB: The Ace of Freedom Pro Wrestling… Graham Baker!
Baker: You don’t belong in this match.
MW: Baker is looking more focussed than I’ve ever seen him before.
SD: Baker has already damaged Mason’s arm and he’s like a shark with the scent of blood when he senses weakness in an arm.
MW: Jace Mason crashes and burns like I’ve never seen before.
MW: This could seriously shorten the match for Jace Mason.
SD: Not just the match!
MW: Look at Mason’s arm!
MW: Graham Baker can’t be too far off getting the submission now.
MW: That was an ingenious counter from Jace Mason!
SD: Mason has never kicked out of that move before!
MW: That arm must be hanging by a thread.
MW: Was that the first time anyone has ever kicked out of Extra Credit?
MW: Mason counters! Top rope Extra Credit!
SD: I don’t believe what I’ve just seen!
MW: Mason with the arm over Baker… one.. two… three! Jace Mason wins it!
SD: A star is born tonight.
The video ends on a shot of Jace Mason holding up the Free-1 trophy before Mike Watson and Steven Deville introduce us to the show.
MW: After a three week break for the FPW roster to recover from the hard slog that is the Free-1, we return on the Road to Dead Man’s Chest!
SD: Dead Man’s Chest is one of the biggest matches of the year and one of the best opportunities for FPW stars that there is. Tonight we find out two more entrants to add to Jack Sevren, who we already know has entered this match.
MW: Indeed we will find out two more entrants as Artemis Evans faces Danica Jane in a Free-1 rematch and our main event tonight will see Go Shihei and Aaron Williams face off in a match which I think has top-level potential.
SD: But tonight we begin with our former Tag Team Champions Death Squad, who have… some issues they’ve been working out.
MW: They certainly do. They lost the Tag Team Championships to Guardians of Strong Style in a wild deathmatch which seemingly ended their series of matches- for now at least- and Ava Knight and Aiden Balmer seem to have identified Evan Rorsche as a weak link in the team.
SD: Ava Knight is ruthless. She’s cut out the dead wood and honestly I feel sorry for the Baxter Brothers tonight as they look to gain some momentum before the tag team gauntlet series which starts in two weeks’ time at Dead Man’s Chest.
MW: Well The Baxter Brothers are ready and waiting, let’s get this match started.
As the Baxter Brothers settle in for their match against Death Squad, the lights in the arena go out and the claxon plays out...but no one appears on the entrance ramp as ‘Beast’ by Nico Vega plays out. Instead, there’s a sound of brawling in the ring, and as the lights go back on, Aiden Balmer stands over Jordan Baxter in the ring with two persons flanking him while Ava Knight hangs loosely on the apron. The referee tries to get in Balmer’s face, but Balmer quickly sizes him up, growling ‘start the match, now.’
With no other options, and Billy Baxter nowhere to be found, the referee rings the bell.
Match 1: The Baxter Brothers vs. Death Squad (written by Baker):
Balmer steps back and out of the ring as the two other individuals look to one another and nod, not removing their extra entrance gear before they grab Jordan and haul him up into the air, the taller-and more obviously male-member grabbing Jordan up onto his shoulders while the other lines up, nodding-and the male member runs forward and HAULS Jordan into the turnbuckles while the other member rushes forward with a massive back elbow to Jordan before the male member responds with a leaping high knee! Jordan Baxter falls to the ground, and the male member grabs him in position for a Double Chicken Wing, holding him up as the other member rushes forward for a Codebreaker-AND THEY DROP HIM! The male member goes for a cover, although if the referee was paying attention to any form of legality in the match, they don’t show it as they go for the count.
ONE!
TWO!!
THREE!!!
Winners: Death Squad (1:28)
.
Before Death Squad can celebrate their win, Billy Baxter, who was unconscious on the outside, hits the ring and runs forward, but Balmer cuts him down with a lariat before he even gets close. The male member of Death Squad removes his mask and vest, revealing greasy hair and a short beard as well as a stocky form. Balmer tosses Billy to the new member, who hauls Baxter high AND SLAMS HIM DOWN WITH A GIBSON DRIVER, immediately transitioning into a Boston Crab! Baxter looks to be in agony as Ava Knight begins speaking, while the other member of Death Squad removes their mask, revealing a female face with long red-and-black hair.
“One head is cut off, and two more spring up to take its place.” Ava Knight muses, watching as Baxter squirms. “George Mercer, my walking torment.” She looks to Aiden Balmer. “Aiden Balmer, my fiercest weapon.” Finally, she looks to the woman, who taunts Baxter as he’s held down. “...and Mary Downing, my uncaged fury.” She looks back toward the crowd.
“You thought the Guardians had vanquished us, sent us elsewhere...but Death cannot be beaten. Death cannot be escaped. Death reigns...and after tonight, Death seeks their final opportunity at the Freedom Pro Wrestling Tag Team Championships. Jim Houston, give us our deserved spot...or feel unending agony.”
With this, Knight drops the microphone as Baxter taps out, screaming in pain before Mercer lets him go. Downing spits in his face, and Death Squad pose around the ring on the turnbuckles as the crowd boos them.
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Backstage, Jerry Bishop sits in a locker room. Bobby O walks up to him.
BO: Hey Jer! I’m surprised you’re here tonight.
JB: Yeah, me and-
BO: It’s good see you again. It’s been a little while since I’ve heard from you. All good with the limey prick?
JB: Well…
BO: What?
JB: As a matter of fact, things aren’t so good.
BO: What’s that bastard done now?
JB: He’s gone.
BO: Gone?
JB: Yeah. He found out that you and I went out that other day and he kind of blew a gasket about it.
BO: And he left?
JB: Yuh-huh.
BO: Then let’s celebrate! With him gone, we can… what’s wrong?
JB: No, it’s just…
BO: Come on! You should be jumping for joy with that prick out of the picture! Return of The Jester! The Friendmigo rides again. This is exactly what you need. Let’s get the shakes in.
JB: I don’t really feel like it.
BO: The guy made your life a living hell. Wake up, train, watch tape, sleep, repeat, right? And you still didn’t win the Free-1. You’re much better off on your own. Hey! I’ve got an idea. Come with me!
JB: I don’t really-
BO: Come on. We’re going to the ring. When the Freedom Fighters see you without him, they’ll give you the loudest damn cheer you’ve ever heard. Come on.
JB: Alright, but…
Bobby hauls Jerry up and they head out the door and down the corridor, only for MDE to walk up to them and block their way.
BO: You!
MDE: I could say the same to you. I see you made your choice, Jerry.
JB: I…
BO: Yeah, he’s made his choice. And so did you. Get out of the way. We’re celebrating The Jester tonight.
JB: Bobby, can I-
MDE: Orton, if you want to be responsible for Jerry’s career being the failure that it was before I got involved, then by all means carry on. But you know as well as I do what he could be. If you’re really his friend like you say and not just here for an ego massage, get out the way and leave him to someone who knows what he’s doing.
BO: I’ve had about enough of-
JB: So have I! Both of you trying to talk for me like I’m not in the room. I can manage my own life. I want to be better than I am right now, but I don’t want to abandon the people I care about.
MDE: You can’t have it both ways, Jerry.
BO: For once I agree. If you choose him, you’re not the man I thought you were.
MDE: And if you choose him, you’re not the man you could become.
JB: I don’t have to choose…
MDE and BO: You do.
MDE and Bobby stare at each other with Jerry looking back and forth between the two.
JB: I… I…
BO: You know what? I have an idea. Me and the limey prick in the ring, one on one. Dead Man’s Chest. I’ll prove to you whose way is better.
MDE: You’re on Orton.
Bobby and MDE move forward while Jerry tries to keep them apart.
JB: It doesn’t have to end like this. It really doesn’t.
BO: I’m sorry Jerry, but it’s the only way I can prove to you that you’re better off with me.
JB: No. I don’t want-
MDE: Jerry, you need to make a choice. My way or his. There’s no middle ground. That gives me an idea…
MDE smiles and looks over Jerry’s shoulder into Bobby’s eyes.
MDE: Me and you, Orton. One on one. With Jerry as referee. You have to make the choice, Jerry. And now there’s no choice but to make it.
Jerry stares wide-eyed at both of them as they continue to face off.
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MW: Well that will be quite some match.
SD: And Jerry Bishop will finally make the biggest decision of his career. The man who almost won him the Free-1 or the man who cost him the Free-1. There’s only one choice to make.
MW: Is there? Jerry is choosing between a past that he loved and a future that he desires. How can he ever truly make that choice with confidence?
SD: All I know is that in two weeks’ time we’ll know who Jerry Bishop really is.
MW: Well let’s move on to a match which will also affect something in two weeks’ time. Artemis Evans laid out the challenge to Danica Jane for this match after Danica defeated her in the Free-1.
SD: Arty dominated the match but was maybe a little too confident. Clutch came in and cost Arty the points and now she gets the chance to make up for that and to qualify for the Dead Man’s Chest match.
MW: Evans certainly did dominate Danica Jane in their last match, but I don’t think she’ll be taking it so lightly this time round. Can Danica Jane compete with the former Women’s Champion tonight?
SD: She’s obviously been training so she’ll bring something to the match, but honestly I’m not sure she can. Arty is one of the best pure wrestlers here and I think she’s about to explode big time in FPW.
MW: Well let’s find out as we get to our first Dead Man’s Chest qualifying match.
“Ladies and gentlemen, the following contest is scheduled for one fall and is a qualifying match for the Dead Man’s Chest ladder match. Introducing first, from Los Angeles, California and being accompanied to the ring by Richard Crowley, Danica Jane!”
‘This Fire Burns’ begins and Danica Jane emerges to a fairly quiet reception. She makes her way down the ramp with a purpose, ignoring any of the fans who either offer their hands or talk trash to her. As she reaches the ring, she climbs the steps and steps through the ropes before climbing to the top and looking around the arena. She then leaps down and limbers up in one corner as Dasha Banks raises the mic to her lips again.
“And her opponent, from Manchester, England, she is a former FPW Women’s Champion, ‘The Glory Huntress’, Artemis Evans!”
‘Checkmate’ echoes around the arena as the white queen appears on the tron. ‘Hammer to Fall’ plays and Evans walks onto the stage as the fans begin to boo her loudly. She smirks and then spreads her arms as pyro goes off on each side of her. Evans then makes her way down the ramp, talking trash with fans and even grabbing an ‘Elizabeth Karlson Rocks’ sign and tearing it up. She then climbs onto the apron and leaps over the top rope before shoving past Danica Jane and climbing the top rope, extending her arms and tilting her head back to soak in the boos once again.
Match 2: Dead Man’s Chest Qualifier: Danica Jane vs. Artemis Evans:
The bell rings and the two women come forward, Jane looking to lock up but Evans grabbing her arm as she comes in and locking in a hammerlock. She transitions into a headlock and takes Jane over, pushing up with her hips to apply more pressure. She releases the hold and sits Jane up before landing a hard thrust kick to the side of her head and making an early cover, 1-2-no. Jane manages to kick out. Evans pulls her up and whips her into the corner, following her in with a running forearm. Jane staggers out of the corner and Evans grabs her by the hair before driving a knee into her gut and taking her down with an axe kick. She makes another cover, 1-2-no. Again Jane manages to kick out.
Evans pulls Jane up again, hooking her arm for a suplex and pulling her up, but Jane drops down behind Evans and kicks her knee out before hitting the ropes and connecting with a sliding clothesline. She makes a cover, 1-no. Evans kicks out quickly. Both women get to their feet and Jane aims a head kick, but Evans catches it. She forces the leg down and, in the same motion, grabs Jane by the head and connects with a DDT. Evans makes another cover, 1-2-no. Again Jane manages to kick out. Evans stands, extending her arms as the boos rain down on her, before pulling Jane up again. She sets her into position for an inverted STO but Jane elbows her way out. Evans staggers away and, when she turns back to Jane, Jane catches her for a belly to belly suplex.
MW: Danica Jane showing some fight in this match.
SD: But Arty is clearly the better of the two.
MW: I don’t deny that one bit, but Danica Jane can go.
SD: She can. But can she string enough together to threaten winning the match? I’m not sure she can.
Jane stands and waits for Evans, who pulls herself up slowly. With Evans not quite vertical, Jane takes her down with a swinging neck breaker and then lays in a kick as Evans sits up. Evans drops to the mat and Jane, instead of going for a cover, pulls her up. She then takes her down with a snapmare and hits the ropes, coming back with a shining wizard. The fans begin to get excited as Jane makes a cover again, 1-2-no. Evans kicks out. Jane pushes back up to her feet and stalks Evans again. As Evans stands, Jane looks for a jumping corkscrew roundhouse kick, but Evans ducks it and, with Jane on her knees, Evans takes her down with a running Silver Bullet. She makes a cover, 1-2-no! Jane just manages to get her shoulder up.
Evans looks down at Jane in disbelief before driving a forearm into her face, much to the chagrin of the fans. Evans talks some trash to the booing crowd before pulling Jane to her feet. She then hooks Jane into position and delivers a Guillotine Strike, making the cover without bothering to hook a leg, 1-2-3.
Winner: Artemis Evans (5:13).
MW: Artemis Evans is into the Dead Man’s Chest match.
SD: And I think she’s going to win it.
MW: It’s not beyond the realms of possibility. She’s been a champion here before and she’s had some impressive victories. If Evans is at her best, she’s tough to beat.
Evans stands and extends her arms once again as she receives more boos from the crowd. Jane rolls out of the ring and is helped up the ramp by Richard Crowley as Evans climbs the top turnbuckle and talks trash about winning the Dead Man’s Chest.
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Backstage, Jim Houston is in his office typing up something on his laptop when there is a knock at the door.
JH: Come in.
The door opens and Berry Bishop enters, looking nervous.
JH: Berry. Pleasure to see you. What can I do for you?
BB: Um… well… I think… um…
JH: What is it?
BB (rushing her words): I-think-I’ve-had-a-good-year-here-so-far-so-I’d-like-to-be-in-the-Dead-Man’s-Chest-match-please.
JH (with a chuckle): I’m not sure I caught that. Relax.
BB: Well, I just wanted to ask… because I think I’ve had a pretty good year so far… can I have a spot in the Dead Man’s Chest match? I think I’ve started to prove myself this year and I’d really like the chance to step up some more, y’know?
JH: Thank you for asking. I’d be delighted to offer you a spot in the Dead Man’s Chest match, Berry. You have proved yourself a very good wrestler and a very talented one at that. You’ll be a strong addition to the match. I was rather expecting a request for a rematch with Elizabeth Karlson if I’m honest.
BB: Well… I’d like to face Liz again. She didn’t pin me after all, but I’m sure I’ll get one soon enough. This is a chance which is too good to pass up.
JH: I’m glad you think so. Is there anything else I can do for you?
BB: Actually…
JH: Go on.
BB: Are you really going to make Jerry be the referee in that match?
JH: One way or another, this Jerry, MDE and Bobby thing needs to come to a head. We can’t keep having them at each other’s throats. It’s not great for Jerry, but maybe this is the best solution. So yes, I do plan to have Jerry in the middle for this match.
BB: Oh… ok then. I guess I’ll see you in two weeks.
JH: Goodbye, Berry.
Berry opens the door to leave but almost walks straight into Marcus Allen Jones.
BB: Oh, hi.
Houston looks up and beckons Marcus in. He enters as Berry leaves.
JH: Marcus. What can I do for you?
MAJ: Last time I was at an FPW show, I thought I’ve vanquished TakeOver for good, and then I ended up getting the crap beaten out of me and found out that Jack Sevren was leading TakeOver 2.0. Now I hear he’s in the Dead Man’s Chest match?
JH: He is. I understand your concerns about that and I didn’t take the decision lightly. I have to do-
MAJ: I want in too.
JH: I thought you might say that.
MAJ: The Free-1 was my chance to get a title shot and getting a title shot was all I cared about. I still want that but I also care about making sure Sevren doesn’t get one. I know what TakeOver can do because I already did most of it myself. I want to get into the match to make sure Sevren doesn’t win that Dead Man’s Chest. If I win it, all’s the better, but right now, it’s ABS- anyone but Sevren.
JH: I understand that. I’m willing to support that. So that makes it Jack Sevren, Artemis Evans, Berry Bishop, Marcus Allen Jones and the winner of Go Shihei versus Aaron Williams. Quite the line-up if you ask me.
Marcus nods and then simply turns and leaves. Houston walks up to the door and looks down the corridor to see if anyone else is coming to request a spot, before closing the door.
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MW: That Dead Man’s Chest match is shaping up to be a good one.
SD: I’m sure sparks will fly between Marcus and Jack Sevren. The two TakeOver leaders going toe to toe at the top of a ladder… it’s what dreams are made of!
MW: Maybe yours. But true dreams are like the dream which came true three weeks ago. Jace Mason entered the Free-1 hoping for a good showing, hoping to raise his stock a little. He came through a block which featured incredible talents and beat arguably the greatest FPW wrestler ever in the final. And he’s waiting behind the curtain right now to give his thoughts as he begins his build to what will undoubtedly be the biggest match of his life. I’ve been looking forward to this as we haven’t seen or heard from Jace Mason since he defeated Graham Baker to win the 2019 Free-1 in what was undoubtedly a match of the year contender. Steven, can I get your opinion on what’s about to happen?
SD: I’m just as excited as you are. Jace wasn’t my pick to win the tournament, and to be honest, he’s never been my favorite here in FPW, but he won me over during that incredible war with Graham Baker. I’ll be very interested in what he says to follow up such a performance.
‘Afterlife’ played from the arena speakers, and the fans grew quiet in anticipation, then exploded into cheers as the intro concluded and Jace Mason stepped through the curtain, holding the Free-1 trophy in the air. He stood there at the top of the ramp for a moment, looking out into the audience of cheering fans with a smile on his face. He began walking towards the ring, high-fiving and exchanging words with the fans in the front row. He also stopped and let a young fan hold the Free-1 trophy for a moment before taking it back and placing it in the ring. He climbed in after and received a microphone from a crewmember. ‘Afterlife’ cut out, allowing the loud chant of “MA-SON MA-SON MA-SON” to fill the arena. He raised the microphone and prepared to speak, but the chant got louder, drowning him out. Jace chuckled and looked down, clearly moved by the response.
As the noise inevitably began to die down, he raised the mic again. “Thank you for that.” The crowd cheered again, and Jace had to lower his mic once again. “You have no idea what this means to me. The guaranteed title match is great and all, but this is honestly the best part of winning the Free-1. It’s knowing that I’ve earned this reception, the reception that I could only dream about just a year ago. Because just a year ago, I didn’t believe in myself. And no offense to any of you, but I don’t think you believed in me either. And why should you? I could put on good matches, sure, but whenever I got an opportunity, I blew it. I couldn’t hold up against the pressure when the stakes were highest. And as you all know, and are probably getting tired of hearing by now, this lack of belief in myself cause me to intentionally miss the first Free-1.”
“But then, in the year between the Free-1, something happened. Well, two things actually. One was that you guys started believing in me, and the other is that I started believing in myself. I’m not sure exactly when this happened, or which happened first, but that belief carried me to claiming the FPW Hardcore championship, my first ever singles title. That belief carried me to a long reign with that title, a reign that saw me go to war against Jimmy Havoc, a reign that saw the title transform from the Hardcore title to the Freedom title. And when I was eventually bested and lost that championship, that belief carried me into the 2019 Free-1, and eventually, it carried me to holding this trophy!” He raised the Free-1 trophy over his head again, to another chorus of cheers.
“A lot of people have asked me what I’m going to do now that I’ve won the Free-1. Well I’ve already done the most important thing. I called my parents, called my friends, called my coach, everyone who’s ever believed in me on this journey, and I thanked them for that belief. And now it’s time to thank all of you for your belief in me.” He raised the microphone as the crowd applauded, but then as he brought the mic back down, the lights suddenly went out. There’s some nervous laughter as the crowd thinks it’s some sort of power outage, but that ends when a spotlight shines on the stage and Clutch McCloud walks out, wearing a fancy suit, microphone in hand. The crowd boos as the lights come back on and Clutch raises the mic to speak, but he ignores them, speaking to Jace.
“Jace, I have to hand it to you, you might not be that great a wrestler, but you’re one hell of a speaker.” He began walking down the ramp as he continued. Hearing you talk about how your lack of belief caused you to miss opportunities, and that all it took was a little bit of belief to take advantage of them, it really struck a chord with me. I’ve realized that I’ve also missed out on a lot of opportunities. And I think I see one of them here tonight and I’m not going to miss out on this one.” He climbs onto the apron, staring a hole through Jace, who hasn’t moved from the center of the ring. “You see, you and I were in different Free-1 blocks, therefore-”
“Hold it!” another voice suddenly rings out from the speakers. Both Jace and Clutch look around, trying to find the new speaker. “Not another word from you Clutch.” Russ Bolt emerges from the crowd, a determined expression on his face. He slid into the ring and stood next to Jace, facing off against Clutch. “You might have some opportunities to take advantage of, but I have some unfinished business with someone I thought was a friend. I’m back, and I’m here to make things right.”
And then Russ suddenly turns and hammers Jace across the head with his mic! Jace crumpled, and Russ moved in, kicking aside the fallen Free-1 trophy and laying into Jace with repeated stomps. A smile spreads across Clutch’s face as he steps into the ring. He takes off his jacket and carefully drapes it over the top rope, then motions for Russ to lift Jace up. Russ does so, holding Jace’s arms behind him. Jace glares into Clutch’s eyes before Clutch begins unloading, driving his fists into Jace’s body again and again. Clutch backed up and then Russ shoved Jace forward into a quick Technical Foul from Clutch. Jace went down, Clutch stood over him with a smirk on his face. Russ bent down and lifted Jace’s head off the mat, taking trash, when Aaron Williams appeared onstage, running down the ramp! Clutch saw him coming and fled the ring, while Russ had to stand up and look for the threat. His eyes widened as Aaron slid into the ring and levelled him with a forearm. Russ hit the mat, and Aaron looked to continue the offense, but Clutch dragged Russ from the ring and helped him to his feet.
MW: “Aaron Williams here to save his friend Jace Mason after Clutch McCloud and Russ Bolt-”
SD: “After they laid a clever trap and brutalized the winner of the Free-1. Clutch came out here to capitalize on an opportunity, and it seems Russ Bolt is here to help him achieve that, what’s the problem with that Watson?”
MW: “What’s the problem?! Jace was out here delivering a heartfelt speech to the people he feels he owes his success, and these two monsters interrupt the moment, that’s the problem!”
Back in the ring, Aaron had helped Jace to his feet, and the two of them exchanged words. Aaron bent down and picked up the Free-1 trophy, staring at it for a moment before he handed it back to Jace, prompting cheers from the audience.
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Backstage, Elizabeth Karlson grabs a drink of water from a catering table as Vanessa Scott walks up to her.
EK: Get the fuck away from me, bitch.
VS: Jealous?
EK: Jealous? You may think you’re all that but let’s see who’s jealous of who when I slap those pretty white teeth out of your mouth in two weeks’ time.
VS: As if you could. I told you I’m going to have that pretty belt of your around my perfectly sculpted waist sooner rather than later. It’s wasted on you.
Karlson steps right up to Scott as several members of security come close by.
EK: The only thing going around your waist will be trainer’s tape after I break your fucking ribs. You want to take this Freedom Championship? Some people seem to be forgetting that the stipulation of this belt is that the champion gets to choose the type of match in which it’s defended. So you’d better be ready for a straight up street fight.
VS: What is that supposed to do? Scare me? You know I’m always ready to get a little… hardcore. Don’t kid yourself, Karlson. You might be a big deal around here now, but these people have never seen a woman like me before and as soon as they do see me, they’ll forget all about you.
Scott slaps Karlson across the face and the security personnel quickly pull them apart. Scott winks at one as she sees him checking her out, while Karlson scratches and claws to get at her.
VS: Don’t waste your time, Karlson. I’ve got better places to be and far better people to be with than you. See you soon, though…
Scott walks away as Ava McGuinness walks towards Kalrson.
AM: You ok?
EK: Ok? The fuck I’m ok. You know what… get in the fucking ring. I’ll show you ok.
AM: I…
EK: Get to the fucking ring. Now!
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MW: We’ve just seen one of the newest additions to the FPW roster, Vanessa Scott, there. She comes with quite the reputation.
SD: …
MW: Steven?
SD: …
MW: Steven!
SD: Sorry! Sorry… I’ve… I think I’ve just gone to heaven!
MW: Oh God, not again. Well Ava McGuinness is walking down the ramp right now and I’m not sure this is the best thing for her to be doing at the moment. Still, I suppose she doesn’t have much choice.
SD: I’d rather face an angry Karlson in the ring than in the back. Talking of backs, did you see Vanessa Scott’s a-
MW: Let’s not.
As the match starts with Ava McGuinness in the ring, ‘Turn it On’ by Sleater Kinney plays out as Liz Karlson emerges on the entrance ramp, her Renegade vest on and prominent as she holds her FPW Freedom Championship high to a mixed ovation from the Freedom Pro fans in attendance.
Match 3: Elizabeth Karlson v Ava McGuinness (written by Baker):
Karlson drops the vest on the entrance ramp as she approaches the ring, rolling under the bottom rope and immediately launching into a fierce lockup with McGuiness, but it’s a brief contest as Karlson’s able to quickly rotate into a waistlock, dropping McGuiness with a German Suplex before hitting the ropes on the rebound, nailing her in the face with a running knee to the head! Ava tries to recover before Karlson can rock her with another shot, but she’s a bit too slow as Liz grabs her for another Suplex, this time a Deadlift variant! She nails Ava into the canvas with a deadlift German Suplex, before following up with a Mushroom Stomp to Ava, but she’s not done yet, heading to the corner as Ava tries to get back to her feet. Karlson waves her on, rushing forward, bounding off a step-up-STEP UP AXE KICK! FULL FUCKIN’ FORCE TO THE HEAD OF AVA MCGUINNESS! Karlson goes for a cover!
ONE!
TWO!!
THREE!!!
Winner: Elizabeth Karlson (1:37)
.
MW: Well that didn’t last long.
SD: Karlson sending a message to Va…
MW: Steven?
SD: Sorry, I just pictured her again.
MW: You need to get help.
SD: I need to get her!
MW: Good luck with that. Well, Elizabeth Karlson will face Vanessa Scott in two weeks’ time and she’s already looking in an aggressive mood.
Karlson picks up the Freedom Championship, watching as McGuinness is helped back up the ramp. She holds it up and draws a thumb across her throat before rolling under the bottom rope and making her way up the ramp. As she does, ‘DNA’ begins to play and the fans react noisly, mostly with boos. Karlson stops as Graham Baker and Kate Mustang walk down the ramp. As they meet, Karlson gives Baker a nod, but he doesn’t even look at her. Mustang gives Karlson a look as she passes and Karlson thinks twice about confronting her before walking back up the ramp. Baker climbs into the ring and demands a mic.
“If you’re waiting for an explanation of what happened in the Free-1 final… you’re going home unhappy tonight.”
The fans boo Baker but he continues talking.
“I’ve come out here for one thing and one thing only. Davey Jones is the FPW Champion but everyone knows I’m the Ace of Freedom Pro Wrestling.”
The fans boos some more.
“And as the fucking Ace of Freedom Pro Wrestling, I should be holding the Championship, just like I’m holding these two other belts.”
Baker holds up the ALPHA Wrestling Championship and ICW Championship, the fans booing again.
“Seeing as I’m not going to be given a match against Jones, I’m informing you all that I’m entering the Dead Man’s Chest match. I’m not asking. I’m not making a request. I’m not having a fucking qualifying match. I’m entering. And I’m winning.”
Baker drops the mic and holds up a middle finger to the fans before leaving the ring with Mustang.
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MW: Well we now have pour sixth entrant into the Dead Man’s Chest match, a match which now contains two former FPW Champions, the leader of TakeOver 2.0, a former Freedom Champion and a former Women’s Champion, as well as the winner of our next match between Aaron Williams and Go Shihei.
SD: And a great match it should be. Williams was perhaps the biggest star of the Free-1, putting on classics with Jace Mason and Marcus Allen Jones, and Go Shihei, with the backing of the woman we have just seen with Graham Baker, can defeat anyone he likes on his day.
MW: We’ve already seen Williams once tonight, but I’m sure his focus will be entirely on this match.
SD: He did look at that Free-1 trophy for quite some time, though. He has to have an eye on it as he was one of just two people to defeat Jace Mason in the Free-1.
MW: Maybe, but you know he’ll be itching to get into a ladder match. He’s been in many classic ladder wars over the years and the prize in this one is too good to pass up. Let’s get down to the ring.
“Ladies and gentlemen, the following contest is scheduled for one fall and is a qualifying match for the Dead Man’s Chest ladder match. Introducing first, a former two-time Ring of Honour World Champion, from Philadelphia, Pennsylvania… Aaron Williams!”
‘I Still Believe’ begins to play and Aaron Williams emerges to a very loud pop. He sings along loudly and very soon has the entire arena singing with him as he makes his way down the ramp, slapping hands with as many fans as he can. Williams circles the ring before pulling a Sharpie out and handing it to a young fan, who writes ‘Williams = F-1 GOAT’. Williams smiles and then slides into the ring, shaking hands with the official and with Dasha Banks before climbing the turnbuckle and leading the fans to sing the final few lines as the song fades out.
“And his opponent, hailing from Osaka, Japan and being accompanied to the ring by Kate Mustang, ‘Holy Fury’… Go Shihei!”
‘Fury, Oh Fury’ begins to play and Shihei is met with a reaction of mostly boos as he emerges, Mustang following just behind. Shihei walks down the ramp, ignoring the fans as he beats himself on the chest and slaps himself on the head. He reaches the ring and walks up the steps, climbing through the ropes and into the ring, where he steps up to Aaron Williams as the two of them stand eye to eye. Williams pulls back first, nodding at the impressive size of Shihei as Mustang talks some trash about Williams not being able to measure up.
Match 4: Dead Man’s Chest Qualifier: Aaron Williams v Go Shihei:
As the bell rings, both men come forward and lock up, Shihei forcing Williams back into the ropes. He continues to force Williams backwards as the official comes in and calls for a clean break. Shihei slowly breaks his grip and Williams stays back, wary of Shihei not breaking clean. As Shihei steps back, he lands a huge overhand chop to Williams’ chest, causing Williams to reel away from the ropes in pain. Shihei follows him and drives him into the corner, where he lands knife-edged chops, each echoing around the arena and causing Williams to grimace in pain. After four such chops, Shihei aims a fifth, but Williams manages to drop down under it and escape from the corner, aiming a chop of his own which Shihei completely shrugs off.
Shihei advances on Williams again, but this time Williams quickly drops down behind him and locks in a waistlock, looking to lift Shihei but struggling due to his immense bulk. Shihei grips Williams’ hands and pulls them apart, maintaining his grip and spinning, trapping Williams in a straightjacket and planting him with a straightjacket German suplex. Shihei then stands and lifts Williams with him, driving him back into the corner. This time, instead of chops, he lands a standing lariat and then unloads several more, causing Williams to drop down to a seated position. Shihei drops back to the opposite corner and runs at Williams, turning at the last minute and backing into him with full force, causing his head to snap back. Shihei drags Williams out of the corner and covers him, 1-2-no. Williams kicks out.
MW: This match is not quite going how I’d imagined in the early stages.
SD: Go Shihei has come out pumped up and ready. We heard from Kate Mustang that she wanted him in the Dead Man’s Chest match and it looks like she’s done an excellent job of preparing him for it.
MW: She certainly has. Aaron Williams is a masterful tactician though. I’ll be interested to see how he looks to get back into this match.
Shihei pulls Williams off the canvas again and whips him into the ropes, taking him down with a clothesline as he bounces back at him. Williams hits the mat hard and Shihei moves to his legs, hooking them onto his shoulders and pulling Williams up, looking for a powerbomb. Williams, however, fights Shihei with forearms to the head which allow him to free his legs and drop down before unleashing a volley of leg kicks and ending with a hard mid kick which sends Shihei staggering into the corner. Williams charges at him and connects with a big splash, then backs away to the corner and comes again and again. Shihei remains standing, so Williams lands another big splash, and then a fifth, but Shihei still remains on his feet in the corner. Williams stares him down before shrugging his shoulders and keeping the attack going, landing another three big splashes before Shihei finally drops down to a seated position. Williams then backs away, catches his breath for a moment, and charges at Shihei, landing an impactful cannonball. Shihei rolls away towards the middle of the ring and Williams climbs up to the top, landing a swan-ton bomb and holding for a cover, 1-2-no! Shihei just kicks out.
Williams pulls himself up on the ropes, still feeling the impact of Shihei’s powerful striking. He calls for Shihei to stand and then positions himself behind Shihei. He lands a discus clothesline to Shihei’s back before hitting the ropes and then connecting with another discus clothesline to his front. Shihei staggers but doesn’t go down! Williams stares at him before hitting the ropes and landing a running knee strike which sends Shihei to one knee. Williams stares at him again and hits the ropes once again, looking for another running knee strike, but Shihei catches him and delivers a huge powerbomb! Shihei stacks Williams up, 1-2-no. Williams kicks out.
MW: Aaron Williams with a trademark flurry there and still ends up having to kick out.
SD: Go Shihei is as strong a man as we have here in FPW. It takes a lot to get him off his feet and even more to keep him there.
MW: And now Shihei is back on his feet and it’s Williams who’s struggling to get up.
Shihei shakes off the damage from Williams and watches as Williams pushes up to a vertical base. Shihei doesn’t waste much time, pulling Williams in for a big Saito suplex before pulling him for a deadlift Saito suplex. Shihei makes a cover, 1-2-no! Williams just manages to get a shoulder up. Shihei pulls Williams up straight away and sets him up for an exploder, but Williams counters with a desperation DDT. Shihei lies on the mat as Williams struggles to rise to his feet. After a few moments, both men are standing, and they advance towards one another in the centre of the ring. Williams throw a forearm which barely has any impact on Shihei. Shihei returns in kind and Williams staggers back a few steps. Williams, however, comes back with another, but the same result happens, Shihei throwing a second and Williams dropping back into the ropes.
Shihei comes charging in with a clothesline to Williams, sending both of them to the outside. Shihei pulls Williams to his feet and drives him back-first into the guardrail before landing a series of hard knife-edged chops. Williams manages to stagger away from the guardrail but Shihei charges at him, taking him down with a hard lariat to the back of the head. Shihei then pulls Williams up and drives another forearm to his face before whipping him into the guardrail- only for Williams to leap up and land with both feet on it. Shihei charges in but Williams backflips off the guardrail, causing Shihei to charge into it. The guardrail falls over and Shihei ends up with his head in an audience member’s lap. Williams quickly stands and orders the crowd to move aside. They do and, With Shihei resting with his head on the seat of the chair, Williams lands a running double knee strike.
MW: That’s a huge momentum shift for Williams in this match!
SD: It seems like it. Shihei went in a bit too hard and he’s paid for his mistake now.
MW: But can Aaron Williams capitalise. If he can get Shihei back in the ring, the match could be over straight away.
SD: But that’s a big man to lift and carry over to the ring. Williams may need to rest and recover for a few seconds here. Take advantage of the time he’s been given.
Williams staggers back to Shihei and, with difficulty, lifts him. He drags him slowly over to the ring and, with a big effort, rolls him back in. Williams follows, making the cover, 1-2-no! Shihei just gets a shoulder up. Williams stands, pulling himself to his feet and looking around the arena, who cheer for him. He reaches down and pulls Shihei up, hooking an arm over his head and lifting him, barely, for a vertical suplex, before dropping him over the top rope. Williams then climbs the turnbuckles, pointing down at Shihei before leaping off with a 450 splash! Both men crash to the canvas and Williams manages to drape an arm over Shihei, 1-2-no! Shihei just gets a shoulder up again.
Williams pulls himself up on the ropes once again and looks down at Shihei, who is struggling to get to his feet. Without hesitating, Williams pulls Shihei in and traps the arms, looking for A Triple Plus. He tries to lift Shihei but Shihei drops to a knee to make it even harder. Williams releases one of the arms and lands clubbing blows across the back, but Shihei hooks the arm under Williams’ leg, freeing his other and doing the same, pulling him up for another powerbomb. He throws Williams into the turnbuckles with a buckle bomb and, as Williams staggers back towards him, takes him down with a huge big boot. Shihei staggers for a moment before pointing to the top rope. The fans boo as he climbs slowly, Williams lying prone on the canvas beneath him. Shihei steadies himself before coming down with Year of the Toad, but Williams rolls out of the way!
MW: That would have ended this match for sure!
SD: Aaron Williams moved out of the way at the last possible second. This one is still alive, but for how long?
MW: I can’t imagine that either man will be able to carry on for much longer. Go Shihei isn’t renowned like Williams is for having long matches, because he really takes his toll on his opponents. If Williams is win this match, he has to get to his feet before Shihei can.
Both men crawl towards the ropes as they attempt to get to their feet. They each manage to pull themselves up and turn to face their opponent before staggering forward. Williams lands a forearm but again it has little impact. Shihei lands one of his own with much more impact than Williams’. Williams returns fire, but he clearly doesn’t have much left to give, and Shihei’s next forearm sends Williams backing into the ropes. However, he explodes off the ropes and lands a leaping knee strike to stagger Shihei before he takes him down with a mid-kick. Williams then roars as he lifts Shihei into a powerbomb position, pulling him up and then dropping him with a powerbomb backbreaker. He holds both legs after delivering the move, but he manages to roll over to make the cover, hooking the leg, 1-2-no! Shihei just gets a shoulder up again.
Williams bangs the canvas before forcing himself to get up one more time. He beckons Shihei to get up as well and, as he does, he drives a knee into his gut. He then sets him into position, hooking both arms, and lifting him for the A Triple Plus. Shihei, however, manages to use his momentum from being lifted to force Williams to stagger back and ultimately to drop backwards, landing Shihei on top of him. Shihei stands, freed from Williams’ grip and pulls Williams up. He lifts him into position for another powerbomb, hooking both arms as he looks for Dead Man’s Bomb. He pulls Williams up but Williams does the same as Shihei, causing him to overrotate and turning the move into a version of a Canadian destroyer. The fans scream with joy as Williams makes the cover, 1-2-no! Shihei barely forces his shoulder off the canvas.
Williams stands with a purpose, tensing himself and roaring for the crowd, who roar for him too. He pulls Shihei up and again looks to set him into position for A Triple Plus, hooking the arms, but he struggles to lift. With one big effort, he tries again, only for Shihei to free himself from Williams’ grip and land a massive headbutt, exploding from a crouching position. Williams staggers back into the corner and Shihei charges at him, crushing him with a big splash. Williams collapses to the floor and Shihei pulls him into position again, hooking the arms and dropping him with a Dead Man’s Bomb, holding for the cover, 1-2-3.
Winner: Go Shihei (18:53).
Mustang enters the ring and shoves the official aside as he tries to raise Shihei’s arm. Instead, she raises his arm as he looks down at Williams with a respectful nod. Mustang leads Shihei out of the ring as Williams tries to pull himself up, the fans giving him a standing ovation. As he finally stands, raising his hand to the crowd, Clutch McCloud and Russ Bolt charge into the ring, jumping Williams and laying the boots to him. Almost immediately, Jace Mason comes running down the ramp and Clutch and Russ scatter, leaving the ring as Mason takes a swing at them. With Clutch and Russ backing away up the ramp, Mason helps Williams up and grabs a mic.
“Clutch, Russ… you want to challenge me for this Free-1 shot? Prove that you deserve it. Me and Aaron teamed up for the All Star Tag Team Classic and I’m all for teaming with my friend again. Come and face us in the ring and we’ll see who deserves a shot at taking my Judgement Day II title match away from me.”
Mason drops the mic and he and Williams stare down Clutch and Russ to end the show.
