PROVING GROUND XXII: LUCKY LARRY'S NOH PREVIEW RESULTS

OZY-MINI-DIAS, EXTRA LIL’ PETEY, AND TOY CAR CADILLAC JACKSON VS. JASON SHORT, SAVANNAH SUNDROP, AND MINOR DESTRUCTION

The Project: Honor minis made their way to the ring to entertain the crowd before the official beginning of the show. The action was fast and furious, but ultimately they only had a little time to show their stuff. The end would come when Extra Lil’ Petey hit his extra short clothesline on Sundrop, setting her up for Ozy-Mini-Dias’ triple cannonball senton off the top rope.

WINNERS: OZY-MINI-DIAS, EXTRA LIL’ PETEY, AND TOY CAR CADILLAC JACKSON


♫ No, you're never gonna lie to me
Your mouth moves, but you never speak
And nobody can fuck with me
So get up, get up, or get out ♫

As “This Is War” begins to play over the opening credits, we see Ace Sky hitting a perfect Shooting Star Press from the top rope, immediately followed by the deranged face of Percival Burque as he throws a rat towards his opponent. We then see flashes of Scott Oasis nailing his Seek n’ Destroy Psycho Driver and Tara Fenix hitting her Phoenix Wings double arm tornado DDT. As the song continues, John Blade is shown waving his hand in front of his face, thus making himself practically invisible.

♫ I know you're scared of catastrophe
Paranoid when you feel the heat
We'll start a riot, one, two, three
So get up, get up, or get out ♫

The arrogant smile of Cadillac Jackson appears on the screen, immediately followed by his execution of The Test Drive. We are also treated to Arata Asakura’s impeccable Golden Dragon, the Royal Crown from Daniel Ackerman, and Ulf Hednir’s Thor Punch! Then, from perfectly executed moves to expertly executed lyrics, all three members of Big Drip are featured as they drop their signature style of drip from inside the ring.

♫ ♫It's annihilation
Hell is in the air, it's hard to breathe
Sick of all the hatred
So I'm holding on, holding on ♫

The bloody yet determined face of Emmanuelle appears on the screen as she clutches her Warrior Rising Title before the opening transitions to Brandon Hendrix hitting his diving spear. The individual members of Jormungandr are shown, as Swindle Shelldrake hits his Violent Salvage, quickly followed by a shot of Jay Crowley’s Atonement. Even the chubby face of a smiling Serrano Poblano has a brief appearance.

♫In the trenches stuck
We've gone too far
Are you ready to die?
This is war!♫

We see MYOJIN in all of their flamboyant glory, sliding their mask to the side as their piercing blue eyes stare at the camera. We then see a cocky Lance Williams holding up The X-Factor Championship seconds before the scene switches to Mark Hunter hitting The Mercy Killer. Finally, the Proving Ground logo begins to emerge, while hovering behind it like a monster rising from the depths is Ozymandias, the Grand Championship over his massive shoulder.

♫ When every step you take is do or die
When every breath you take is filled with lies
And you can't deny you're feeling like you're paralyzed
So it's time to settle the score
This is war ♫




The opening music begins to fade as the live audience in The Yamada Green Dome comes alive for another exciting edition of Proving Ground! The cameras scan around the arena as pyrotechnics erupt from the entrance stage, ramp, and ring posts, until the lights finally rise to reveal the crowd in its full glory.

“LANCE IS NOT A TOOL”
“WHO BOOKED THIS SHIT?”
“DON DADA IS MY DADDY”
“RIP RAPTURE”
“SAVE US SWINDLE!”

One of the ringside cameras finally lands upon the announce position, where the welcoming faces of Trey Booker and J.T. Price are ready to greet the viewing audience at home.

TREY BOOKER: Welcome to the final stop on our way to the biggest Pay-Per-View event of the year with Night of Honor only two weeks away! Welcome to the pinnacle of in-ring competition...the flagship of Project: Honor...welcome to Proving Ground!

J.T. PRICE: We’ve got a weird one tonight, Trey. Larry KaChow’s been given a second chance at booking tonight’s matches, and because of that, half of our roster have refused to compete! It was making Larry so nervous that he invited those turds from Fallout…

TREY BOOKER: Don’t remind me. An Ascension Championship match almost broke out during our production meeting.

J.T. PRICE: Jason Long, James Ranger, and Arik Holt are all booked tonight. Who knows who else might show up!

TREY BOOKER: One thing we can guarantee is that by the end of the night, we will have a good idea of what’s in store for us at Night of Honor! We’ve got a special announcement, a coin toss, and a contract signing that will each have their own implications for the Proving Ground Title matches scheduled for Pay-Per-View!

J.T. PRICE: Don’t forget the in-ring debuts of Cole Madden and Mason Kane!

TREY BOOKER: Not only that, but I’m predicting breakout performances by men like Swindle Shelldrake and Brandon Hendrix as they headline tonight’s...

J.T. PRICE: Whoa! Sorry to interrupt, big guy, but it sounds like we’ve got a situation brewing in the parking lot!


Outside the Yamada Green Dome, the wrestling fans of Project Honor are still pouring into the arena, arriving in droves to fill out the sold-out venue. But while there's joy and excitement in the air, there is tension towards the private parking towards the rear, the talent entrance. Security personnel are standing guard before a lone figure, a veritable wall of security forces opposing just one person... Ozymandias.

In one hand he is holding a machete, a long dark blade used only for causing harm and severing all that stands in his way. In the other, a sledgehammer, hung loosely by his side but moving around in his hand like it is weightless. Alongside him is his manager, valet, and trusted friend Meredith. They do not speak Japanese, and they do not bow to anyone. With every step forward the security personnel try to stop them, but every attempt angers the Butcher, and only means to cause more annoyance on the face of Meredith.

One more step forward and the security are forced to draw their own weapons, shouting to the champion in a language neither he nor Meredith understand. He lifts the machete up slowly, gauging their reactions. Naturally they jerk and revolt towards his actions.

Secondly he lifts the sledgehammer, to which they seem less concerned and less apprehensive. Neither motion sits easy with the force, and neither of the Norse people seem patient enough to get to the bottom of this. Sighing loudly, Meredith softly takes the blade from Ozymandias, and tosses it aside. She then beckons him to pass over the sledgehammer, which he reluctantly does, his eyes still training on the dozen or two security guards before him.

With Meredith in possession of the weapon, held in a non-threatening way, she steps forward and urges the task force to stand aside. They yell in protest but weaponless now, Ozymandias no longer poses a threat to them. They step aside to create a narrow passage for their entry to the building, but as Ozymandias approaches they choose wisely and give him a lot more space. They can only watch as the Butcher now makes his way inside, the one true Champion of this arena.



HOLLY PEREZ: The following match is scheduled for one fall… Introducing first… from Boston, Massachusetts… JOHN BLADE!!!

“Time is Now” begins to play as John Blade walks out on stage. He talks to the camera man and bounces a little. He holds up his “Never Give Up” logo flag and tosses it to the fans. He salutes and runs straight down towards the ring. He bounces off the ropes side to side and he holds up his “Hustle, Loyalty, and Respect” shirt. He takes off his hat and tosses his shirt to the fans and hands his Chain to the ref before waiting on his opponent.

HOLLY PEREZ: His opponent… from Burt’s Global Shipping Incorporated… GUY!!!

Guy pushes a two-wheeled cart loaded with boxes to the ring while “I’ve Been Everywhere" by L.A Rats plays, sheepishly waving at members of the audience. He parks his cart at ringside and awkwardly climbs between the ropes, removing his delivery jacket to reveal the thin, boyish frame that lies underneath. He then stands in his corner, unsure of what to do, while waiting for the match to start.

DING! DING! DING!

John and Guy take their places in neutral corners before Guy shrugs his shoulders in a “here we go” manner, Guy runs at Blade who almost nonchalantly sends him over head with a back body drop. Amazingly though Guy shows great athleticism and lands feet first on the top rope gaining a gasp from the crowd, instinctively he springs back with a moonsault bodyblock taking John down!

TREY BOOKER: He calls that Overnight Delivery!

J.T. PRICE: Five move man didn’t see that coming.

Guy stays on John for the cover…

ONE!
TWO!
TH… STRONG KICK OUT BY JOHN BLADE!!

The kick out launches Guy into the air but he lands safely on his feet, John begins to rise whilst Guy clearly has no idea what to do next.

TREY BOOKER: That’s pretty much Guy’s best shot.

J.T. PRICE: Yeah and Big Match John powered out like a damn superman!

As John gets to his feet Guy foolishly charges him again, not making the same mistake as last time, The Doctor of Thuganomics takes Guy down with a lou thesz press and nails a few punches before springing up. John leans over the fallen Guy and does the “You Can’t See Me Taunt”, John bounces off the rope and hits his opponent square in the forehead with the five knuckle shuffle.

TREY BOOKER: And just like that John Blade is in control!

J.T. PRICE: He’s gonna bury his opponent now.

Rather than go for a cover, John picks up his clearly groggy opponent, John whips Guy into the ropes but feeling clever after his earlier exploits, Guy springs up to the top rope facing the outside. Unfortunately this time Guy isn’t as coordinated and starts to wobble, he even starts screaming for help. For what feels like an age, the crowd and Blade just watch the scene unfold, and after a fair few seconds John shrugs his shoulders and walks over to Guy, poking him with a finger to the spine. Guy falls face first to the outside, still screaming in fear. The splat sound echoes throughout the arena.

J.T. PRICE: That was about as graceful as Larry Kachow on crack.

TREY BOOKER: Oh god, what a thought.

John looks down at the broken man and actually cringes. Blade decides to roll to the outside and whilst grinning lifts Guy up by the waistband of his trousers using just one hand. Guy appears completely lifeless as Blade swings him around like he’s no more than a weightless bug before then slinging him under the bottom rope and into the ring.

TREY BOOKER: John can pretty much do as he pleases right now.

J.T. PRICE: Absolutely no good reason for us to see all five of his devastating moves tonight, Guy is basically dead.

Upon returning to the ring John drops an elbow to the back of his defenseless opponent.

TREY BOOKER: An elbow from John there.

J.T. PRICE: AN ELBOW DROP!!! THAT IS NOT ONE OF HIS FIVE MOVES… WHERE THE FUCK DID HE LEARN THAT?

Seeming almost bored now, John gets to his feet and drags Guy up with him. With the smallest of effort John Blade throws Guy up onto his shoulders and parades him around the ring before… ATTITUDE ADJUSTMENT!! Blade hooks the leg…

ONE!
TWO!
THREE! JOHN BLADE WINS!!!

DING! DING! DING!

TREY BOOKER: Well… that was pretty dominant.

J.T. PRICE: Errrm… I think we may need a mixture of medics and cleaners to sort out and clear up after Guy!!

TREY BOOKER: And a new mat on the outside, his face is still imprinted on the one in front of us.

HOLLY PEREZ: The winner of this match… via pinfall… JOHN BLADE!!!

John is by now celebrating his win as medics rush down toward the still motionless heap in the ring.


It was strange, but in a good way. Standing here on her own two feet, after she thought she was ripped apart. Again. Hannah Morrison was stronger than she ever expected out of herself. For too long she thought of herself as a sidekick. Nothing wrong with being someone’s sidekick, but it was a shame if you forgot your own potential. Your own dreams too.

After clearing some business related stuff she decided to make another stop. Catering area. Probably her favourite place in the whole arena. Her deep blue eyes scanned over everything, although she already knew what she wanted. Spotting Elena’s cupcakes made her smile. Especially when she found the rainbow coloured ones.

HANNAH MORRISON: Two of those, pretty please.

She spoke in her usual, excited voice. The guy behind the glass simply shrugged his shoulders, probably wondering how much more sugar the girl could take.

LIL PETEY: Whatchu doing getting into the sugar without me?!

Hannah immediately turned around at the sound of the voice. She knew who it was just because they had just talked about coming here, but Petey had to use the bathroom first.

HANNAH MORRISON: That's why I got two, silly goose.

She laughed out loud. For a moment she was teasing him, but then handed him one of the cupcakes. It wasn’t often anyone ever did anything for Petey. Until recently, it was a shock to him. He looks down at the cupcake and takes a bite out of it.

LIL PETEY: Damn, aren’t you just as sweet as this cupcake?

HANNAH MORRISON: There is a reason they are called after me.

Hannah seemed very proud to tell him that. And it was the truth, Elena made cupcakes after family members and friends. Petey took another bite out of the cupcake and just basked in it’s glorious taste.

LIL PETEY: They made a good choice, naming it after you. This shit is the bomb!

HANNAH MORRISON: I wonder what cupcake you would be. Hmmm.

Petey’s eyes immediately widened. She laughed again, covering her mouth.

HANNAH MORRISON: But jokes aside, you wanted to talk about something? Or at least that's what I gathered from your text.

LIL PETEY: You can’t just drop something like that on me and then change the subject, girl!

Hannah continued to chuckle without saying anything.

LIL PETEY: I’m glad to see you laughing and smiling so much. I actually texted you to meet up and see how you’re doing. Can’t really see feelings through a text, you feel me? So, how are you?

For a moment it seemed like the mood had changed. Hannah looked down and stopped eating her cupcake. She actually had to think for a moment.

HANNAH MORRISON: I am actually okay. Whatever that means. Every day is a challenge, especially when you've been with someone for so long. But I survived worse.

He probably didn't know, but that was the truth. From running from her family to the training at SteelBones Wrestling. Life was not always fun and games.

LIL PETEY: I didn’t mean to ruin the mood. I just… you’re different than most around here and I like that about you. I know you’re going through a lot and just wanna check on you to make sure you’re alright. Whatever you need I’m here too, you feel me?

HANNAH MORRISON: Honestly? You have done more than most people. I don't have very many friends. Which is probably obvious.

She smiled still. It wasn't as bright as before, but still.

HANNAH MORRISON: I just need to find myself again. Or better said, I need something to do.

Petey’s eyes widened even more than before. It was taking everything in him not to say what he would typically say in this situation as this was a woman going through a tough time and had respect for her.

LIL PETEY: We’ll find you something, for sure for sure. For now, let’s enjoy these sweet ass cupcakes and whatever time is left before I find out if this Cole dude is really who I think it is.

HANNAH MORRISON: And if he is who you think he is, is that a good or bad thing?

She was looking at him way more seriously than before. Whether it was because he was staring off into the distance deep in thought or for any other reason, she was just curious. Petey, however, was lost in space after that question was asked. He wasn’t sure how to answer this at the moment.

LIL PETEY: All I know is I’ll always have good vibes going on, no matter what. That’s for sureeeeee!

HANNAH MORRISON: You know, that's no real answer...BUT I will allow it for now. Just don't think that I will forget about it.

Hannah winked at him before finishing her baked good. Petey looked at her deeply for a second and just couldn’t help but to smile before digging into his cupcake.

LIL PETEY: We’ll come back to this later, I promise. Let’s just get into something before shit gets real, yeah?

HANNAH MORRISON: This sounds like trouble… So… for sure.

The mood switches back to bright and bubbly like before and the two walk out of the catering area and ready to get into some typical Petey shenanigans.

The pair are only gone for a few precious seconds, before someone else enters the catering area. Normally, his appearances would be reserved for Fallout, but with Larry KaChow issuing an open invitation to that roster, it would seem that this bad motherfucker has decided to accept. Julius Fairweather walks up to the catering table, looking up and down at the selections with great thought. Finally, he nods his head and expresses a bright grin.

JULIUS FAIRWEATHER: Gimme two Double Dutch Motherfuckers on the double, motherfucker. That woman knows her way around a cupcake...



HOLLY PEREZ: Making their way to the ring first… Standing at six foot, one inches tall… Weighing two hundred and forty four pounds… Residing From Los Angeles, California... The Neutralizer… MAAASSSOOONNN KAAANNNEEE

"Torch" by Black Veil Brides starts to play as “The Neutralizer” Mason Kane walks out onto the stage with a smug looking grin on his face. As he makes his way down to the ring, he ignores the boos and abuse from the crowd. Once at the ring, Mason just walks up the steel steps and enters the ring between the middle and top rope. Once he is in the ring, Mason Kane stands in the middle of the ring with a grin on his face as he prepares for all out carnage and mayhem.

HOLLY PEREZ: Making their way to the ring next… Standing at six foot exactly… Weighing three hundred and twenty pounds… Residing From FlavorTown… The Heater, The Ambassador of FlavorTown… SEEERRRRRRAAANNNOOO POOOBBBLLLAAANNNOOO!!!

The stage remains empty as the sound of a guitar playing can be heard over the sound system. Moments later, the opening lyrics to “Fire Water Burn” can be heard…

The roof, the roof, the roof is on fire
The roof, the roof, the roof is on fire
The roof, the roof, the roof is on fire
We don't need no water, let the motherfucker burn

Burn motherfucker, burn

At that moment, the music picks up its tempo and the curtains fly apart to reveal “Spicy” Serrano Poblano. With his bleached blonde hair spiked up and his sleeveless flame theme shirt unbuttoned, Serrano headbangs toward the ring. After rolling under the bottom rope, he tosses his shirt aside and throws his hand up with his fingers giving the metal sign.

DING! DING! DING!

TREY BOOKER: This is going to be...interesting to say the least. I’m looking forward to seeing what Mason Kane can do in the ring against seasoned competition.

J.T. PRICE: Seasoned competition...I see what you did there.

As they both start to circle around each other in the ring, Lance Williams looks on from the outside. Serrano Poblano is trash talking Mason Kane who as they circle just smirks at Serrano. Even though it’s early on in the match, Serrano tries to throw a special mix of ground peppers into the eyes of Mason. Mason is switched on though as he sees the hand go to throw the spice at him, he dives out of the way and is back to his feet in time to deliver a Knife Edge Chop to Serrano. It isn’t until after the third one that Serrano starts to feel the pain and noticing that he was blocking the ref's view, Serrano is crafty enough to poke Mason in the eye.

Obviously the ref didn’t see it and this causes Lance to get up on the apron and start arguing with the ref. Serrano, seeing that the ref is distracted, kicks Mason straight in the balls and sends Mason falling to the mat holding his lower midsection. Serrano starts to dance about like he did against Brandon Hendrix, even standing over Mason Kane ready to teabag him too. Lucky the ref is still distracted and doesn’t turn around until after Mason hits an Uppercut to Serrano’s balls. As Serrano falls, Mason grabs onto his leg, managing to lock in The Joint Manipulator (Heel Hook) adding more pain to what Serrano was already in.

J.T. PRICE: Now that’s a spicy meatball, Trey.

TREY BOOKER: Definitely not the showing Serrano had to be hoping for here tonight. I have it on good authority that his parents, Carolina Reaper and Shishito Habanero are in attendance to watch their son in action.

Serrano is trying his best to get to the ropes but when he does, Lance quickly pulls the ropes out of reach as Mason manages to roll holding onto Serrano’s leg and is now in the centre of the ring with The Joint Manipulator (Heel Hook) still locked in. Serrano’s father takes exception to this from his seat in the front row and starts to trash talk Lance. Lance and Serrano’s father are going back and forth when Lance just grabs hold of Shishito and pulls him over the barricade before hitting him with a Torture Bomb (Torture Rack Into A Jackknife Powerbomb) onto the steel steps!

By now, Mason has let go of Serrano and walks over to the side of the ring to see what is going on. By this time, Serrano’s mom starts to trash talk Lance who tells Mason he better deal with her. Mason refuses and says he has to deal with Serrano instead, to which Lance tells Mason to hold Serrano up to watch what is going to happen. Mason picks Serrano up and locks in a Full Nelson on him, making him watch and see the broken body of his father at ringside. Lance grabs a steel chair from under the ring as Serrano starts to beg Lance not to hit his mom with it. There is a sick smirk on Lance’s face as he just swings the chair and hits it across the back of Serrano’s father instead who is still out cold.

TREY BOOKER: Come on, Lance! Serrano’s parents may be former wrestlers, but that isn’t called for!

Now with the steel chair in hand, the ref is trying to tell Lance to stop and get security out. As security comes rushing down the ramp, Lance takes four of them out with the steel chair one by one. Lance then hands some money over to a woman in the crowd and passes her the steel chair. As Mason makes Serrano still look on, the woman actually hits Serrano’s with the steel chair! Lance starts laughing before he suddenly charges to take out the last security guard with a Raging Bull (Gore)! Once he gets up, he just begins to walk out and tells Mason to handle his business.

As Mason lets go of Serrano, he backs up but only enough to get momentum to hit Serrano with the Killshot (Judas Effect) that knocks Serrano out cold. Mason doesn’t go for the pin though, in fact, he locks in The Asphyxiate (Omoplata Rear Naked Choke) even though Serrano is already out cold. The ref rings for the bell and tells Mason to release the hold but he refuses to do so as the ref starts to pull at Mason trying to get him to let go. Eventually Mason just lets go and rolls out of the ring with a grin on his face.

HOLLY PEREZ: The winner of this match by KNOCK OUT… MAAASSSOOONNN KAAANNNEEE!!!

Mason looks at Serrano out cold before looking at Serrano’s father who is being seen by the EMT’s. Mason pushes them out of the way before getting on the steel steps and getting Serrano's father set up for The Neutralization (Package Piledriver), and even though everyone is begging for him to show mercy, Mason Kane sadistically grins before executing the move from the steel steps onto the outside of the ring. Mason gets up to his feet, stands there brushing his hands off before shouting at Serrano as he walks past the ring that he shouldn’t have made it personal. Mason heads up the ramp leaving the carnage behind him, not caring about one thing that just happened as the woman Lance had paid is confronted by security.

TREY BOOKER: What the hell? I don’t think anyone expected Serrano to win this thing, but I don’t understand why Mason and Lance had to take things so far!

J.T. PRICE: Clearly Mason Kane is not the kind of guy who appreciates a comedy act like Serrano.

TREY BOOKER: Be that as it may, something tells me things wouldn’t have escalated to that degree if an idiot like Larry KaChow wasn’t running things tonight.

J.T. PRICE: Hey! Blame Indy Darling! He’s the one who gave Larry another chance!



Following the previous contest, we transition to the Project: Honor studios where a well-groomed man in a checkered dress shirt is seated behind a semi-circular desk.

LOU ROBERTSON: For Project: Honor Perspective, this is Lou Robertson…

He turns to face the second camera, as a digital graphic appears on the screen alongside his face.

LOU ROBERTSON: Some are saying that it’s a match months in the making, one whose origins we can trace back to the forfeiture of The X-Factor Championship by current Proving Ground General Manager, Indy Darling. Shortly after that, Mr. Darling created a single-elimination tournament to crown a new champion, a tournament in which Lance Williams and MYOJIN would have their first one-on-one encounter…

As Roberson’s words trail off, the screen to his side comes alive with images from the not-too-distant past...

Williams slumps off the side of MJOYIN, in disbelief that he kicked out, and the big man is holding his ribs and trying to regain his energy. Meanwhile MYOJIN may as well be cartoonishly flattened into a 2 dimensional shape after being attacked off the top rope. MYOJIN gets up and gets to the ropes as Williams is getting up as well.. MYOJIN turns around and rushes for a spear-like move but Lance jumps, so MYOJIN crashes into the turnbuckles!

TREY BOOKER: THE ATHLETICISM ARE YOU KIDDING ME?! He’s too big to do shit like that!!

MYOJIN stumbles back and turns into LANCE’S VERSION OF THE GORE!!

TREY BOOKER: THE RAGING BULL… THAT’S IT!!!

Lance makes the cover.

ONE!
TWO!
THREE! LANCE WILLIAMS WINS!!!

DING! DING! DING!

HOLLY PEREZ: The winner via pinfall… advancing to the X-Factor Tournament Final… LANCE WILLIAMS!!!

The screen fades back to the Project: Honor logo as Lou Robertson continues his narration...

LOU ROBERTSON: At the time, some called it an upset victory, but what it ultimately proved to be for Lance Williams, was a career-defining moment that would earn him championship gold through a twist of fate. Yet that achievement was not without controversy…

Again, the screen beside Lou Robertson comes to life...

INDY DARLING: The fact is Lance, I do appreciate how far you made it in the tournament and I won’t belittle that accomplishment. On the other hand, I’m not the kind of GM that just hands a title over without a fight, especially to an egotistical prick like you. So my official decision is to make my way backstage with the title in my possession until Rock Johnson comes to his senses and we can agree on a suitable outcome for everyone involved.

Indy drops the mic to the canvas and turns his back on Lance, intent on fulfilling his promise by leaving the ring. Judging by the expression of rage on Lance’s face, that’s not an outcome he’s willing to abide by. The Bulldozer leaps forward and grabs Indy, hoisting him onto his shoulders. He holds him in the Torture Rack position for a couple of seconds before then hurling him down to the mat!

TREY BOOKER: Torture Bomb! Torture Bomb on our General Manager by Lance Williams!

J.T. PRICE: Damn! Indy really should have thought this through!

As the GM writhes in pain, Lance picks up the microphone and begins to scream down at Indy.

LANCE WILLIAMS: You aren’t taking this from me! No one is taking this from me! Rock Johnson even says I’m The X-Factor Champion, and if I have to break your crippled ass in half to prove it, that’s exactly what I’m gonna do!

Lance holds onto the mic and pulls Indy back up to his feet. The injured GM tries to throw a punch, but Lance brushes it off and slings Indy back onto his shoulders for a second Torture Bomb! This time Indy does not move after the impact, but still Lance is not finished. He pulls Indy up yet again, lifting him onto his shoulders a third time. Before we can see what follows, the video fades away as Lou begins to speak…

LOU ROBERTSON: While The Essence of Egotism was just beginning to show his true colors, MYOJIN found themselves with a golden opportunity that very same night…

Arata, through all of the bickering on the outside with the commentators, is making his way to the top rope and is about to soar for the Golden Dragon. Arata stands up there for a couple of seconds before leaping off of the top--LOVE, FROM OSAKA! MYOJIN KIPPED UP AND SCOUTED ARATA, FINDING HIMSELF WITH A LAST DITCH EFFORT MOVE AND PERFECTED THE JUMPING CORKSCREW ROUNDHOUSE KICK! Arata is stunned from the out of nowhere strike, and so is the crowd right now, but MYOJIN makes her way back to her feet and watches Arata rise to his knees--KISS AND TELL! FOLLOWED UP WITH THE RAINBOW STAR PRESS! THE COVER-- BUT ARATA ROLLS OVER AND MAKES THE COVER THIS TIME! BUT MYOJIN WON’T ALLOW IT! SHE ROLLS OVER AND LOCKS IN AQUILLA! THE HEADSCISSORS KIMURA LOCK IS APPLIED AND THERE’S NO ESCAPE FOR ARATA RIGHT NOW! HE’S GOT TO TAP! BUT ARATA’S TRYING TO GET TO HIS FEET BUT MYOJIN WON’T LET HIM, SHE’S FIGHTING TO KEEP HIM DOWN BUT ARATA’S ABLE TO LIFT HIMSELF UP AND ROLL MYOJIN ON HIS BACK, THE SHOULDERS ARE DOWN!

ONE!
TWO!
THR--

MYOJIN COUNTERS WITH HER OWN VERSION OF A ROLL UP! THE SHOULDERS ARE DOWN!

ONE!
TWO!
THREE!

DING! DING! DING!

LOU ROBERTSON: With that victory, MYOJIN would assure themself of another shot at X-Factor gold, but the back and forth between these two stars was only starting to heat up. They would take their issues with each other to social media, with MYOJIN claiming that Lance was nothing but a paper champion, while The Bulldozer did not hesitate in reminding The Shining Star that he had defeated them on his way to claiming the championship. Lately, MYOJIN has even accused Mr. Williams of stalking them on social media, leading to an exchange which only continued to raise the ire of both individuals.

The video screen begins to show clips from more recent episodes of Proving Ground in which both competitors were featured…

LOU ROBERTSON: These two would meet once again, but much to the chagrin of MYOJIN, it would be in tag team competition where Lance Williams’ title was not on the line. As a member of the Project: Honor Originals, The Shining Star’s team found only defeat when matched up against Project: Honor’s Champions, a team that included Lance Williams. As if this were not enough of an insult, The Bulldozer would strike an unsuspecting MYOJIN with a steel chair at ringside, further intensifying the bad blood between them. Another tag team encounter would have Lance teaming up with Tara Fenix while MYOJIN found a more reliable partner in their regular ally, Emmanuelle. Still, Lance’s team would come out on top, although MYOJIN would even the score with a stiff chairshot of their own.

These recent interactions fade away, but instead of the camera focusing fully on Lou Robertson, it remains split as a live image of Proving Ground General Manager, Indy Darling, appears on screen.

LOU ROBERTSON: With me now is a man who has kept a very close eye on this rivalry, and as a former X-Factor Champion and current General Manager, he has a vested interest in how this inevitable confrontation will play out. Thanks for joining me, Indy.

INDY DARLING: My pleasure, Lou.

LOU ROBERTSON: By now, word has started to spread that MYOJIN will finally have his shot at Lance Williams and The X-Factor Championship in two weeks at Night of Honor. What are you doing, if anything, to ensure that this match brings this heated and long-standing rivalry to a close?

INDY DARLING: I’m not sure if anything I do can make that happen, Lou, but I am taking extra measures to make sure we’ve got a clear winner and champion at Night of Honor. As most of our fans know, MYOJIN was the first competitor to win an Iron Man Match in the company, but Lance Williams was able to stake his own claim to being the company’s Iron Man by having the longest time in the ring for The Opportunity Knocks Rumble. With that in mind, I think it’s only appropriate that their match at Night of Honor is a 30 Minute Iron Man Match for The X-Factor Championship.

LOU ROBERTSON: That’s a bold move, Darling. We’ll see if it pays off for you and Project: Honor in just two short weeks. Thanks for taking the time to join us.

INDY DARLING: Any time, Lou.

The live image of Indy fades away, and finally the camera focuses fully on Lou Robertson in the center of the screen. To his right, a still shot of Lance Williams appears, and to his left, an image of MYOJIN.

LOU ROBERTSON: Now there is little more we can do than wait to see how this rivalry, currently one of the company’s longest and most divisive, plays out. On one hand, we have MYOJIN; a Project: Honor original, the epitome of showmanship and flamboyance, a competitor whose skills have been finely honed like a surgical blade, and yet, gold has ever eluded their grasp. On the other hand we have Lance Williams; brash, cocky, and full of himself, yet able to back it up with freakish athleticism, sheer strength, and a willingness to stoop to the lowest of levels. Will The Shining Star be able to burn brighter than The Essence of Egotism? Will The Bulldozer be able to pave over The Technical Aristocrat? History seems to side with the champion, but could the disdain that our General Manager has for the champion play a part in the outcome? With an Iron Man Match nullifying the champion’s advantage, this one may be too close to call. I’ll let you decide for yourselves. One thing I will stand by, is that this match could very well steal the show at Night of Honor. For Project: Honor, I’m Lou Robertson, and this has been my Perspective.



CLARA OLSON: Ladies and Gentleman! Because this is a FALLOUT SPONSORED MATCH...you will have to deal with ME, ALARA ADAMS, AND KAYDEN ELLIS!!!

CROWD: FALL-OUT! FALL-OUT! FALL-OUT!

CLARA OLSON: Introducing first, weighing in at two-hundred and fifty pounds...originally from Alberta, Canada….RRAAAAPPPPTTUUUURRREEE!!!

“Rapture Rising by JT Machinima begins to bump out of the speakers as the fans begin oddly cheering for the Cowardly Heel. But knowing his opponent, it makes sense.

#Beyond the ocean,
A lighthouse is waiting for me.
The great chain in motion,
Beneath the waves of the sea!

Rapture steps out of the back and onto the entrance platform, his mask covering his face as he looks out into the large Proving Ground crowd.

#Into the city,
All good things flow.
The sweat on your brow,
Is what you’ll reap and sow.

Rapture lifts his right arm into the air, brandishing his lucky...rubber...knife.

#Forge your own fortune
From salt and from sand.
No Gods or Kings…
on-ly man.

The base hits and Rapture begins his descent down the ramp, looking back at both sides of the entrance. The fans were cheering and reaching out to him.

#My folks told me, “Son you won the gene pool”
So I guess I had a headstart on these fools.
Doesn’t take a winter blast for Jack to keep cool.
But isolation in the deep blue can be cruel!”

Rapture slowly walks up the stairs and enters the ring, ducking down through the middle rope, his music fading out.

CLARA OLSON: AND HIS OPPONENT…

The fans instantly begin to rain boos down upon everything and everyone.

CLARA OLSON: ...weighing in at one-hundred and ninety-two pounds...from St. Paul, Minnesota...he is the General Manager Assistant of Fallout...ARIK...HOOOOLLLLTTT!!!

Booing continues to fall down heavy when suddenly the lights turn red. And instead of Arik’s “Greatest Show” or Redd’s “Every Breath You Take”...we get something new.

A single base chord rips out and hums over the crowd.

#Please don’t take...my sunshine away.

Originally booing, the crowd quiets down.

#Please don’t take...my sunshine away.

The slow creepy vibe of the single chord playing while a grown man and young girl sing, hangs in the air.

#Please don’t take...my sunshine away.

A small bit of feedback follows as green purge masks begin to light up...spread out through the crowd. Slowly they begin filing down through the crowd, towards the ring. Dressed in red hoodies and black pants, it is impossible to tell them apart.

#Please don’t take...my sunshine away.

A few come out of the entrance and begin lining up along the sides of the entrance ramp itself.

#Please don’t take...my sunshine away.

The young girl's voice is gone and replaced by piano keys.

The masked individuals from the crowd climb over the barricades and begin to circle the ring.

#Please don’t take...my sunshine away.

With the ring completely surrounded, they take a step back, pressing their backs up against the barricades separating the ring from the fans.

#Please don’t take...my sunshine away.

The base hits and everyone watches as a few more masked individuals begin walking down to the ring.

#Please don’t take...my sunshine away.

A group of four of them climb up on the ring apron, one on each side. Clara Olson quickly slides out of the ring and pushes past to her seat next to the announcer’s table.

#Please don’t take...my sunshine away...away…

The music’s base rumbles for a moment before cutting completely out. All at once, the masked individuals turn toward the entrance way. Standing at the top of the entrance, body turned slightly to the left and looking at the ground...is Arik Holt, dressed in his normal Redd outfit. The red mask shines brighter than normal. He looks up toward the ring as his music starts again.

#You are my sunshine, my only sunshine.
You make me happy, when skies are gray.
You'll never know dear, how much I love you.
Please don't take my sunshine away.

Arik turns and slowly begins to walk down to the ring, before stopping...and lifting his right hand up. He snaps his middle finger and thumb, when suddenly the four masked individuals on the apron...enter the ring and begin to lay into Rapture with punches and kicks. Meanwhile, some of the others of the group reach under the ring and pull out some tables...sliding them into the ring. Arik watches as he slowly starts walking toward the ring again.

#The other night dear, as I lay sleeping.
I dreamed I held you in my arms.
But when I awoke, dear, I was mistaken.
So I hung my head and I cried.

Sliding under the ropes, Holt watches as his group drives Rapture to his knees...ripping off his special mask and throwing it into the crowd. Blood trickles from a gash on Rapture’s lip and a small bit of blood is coming from his nose.

#You are my sunshine, my only sunshine.
You make me happy, when skies are gray.
You'll never know dear, how much I love you.
Please don't take my sunshine away.

Arik stands to his feet as his masked group stops their beatdown on Rapture and instead one each holds his arms and one grabs his hair and yanks his head back so that he is face to face with Arik.

#Please don't take my sunshine away.

Arik kneels down before Rapture, tilting his head to the side. Meanwhile, a few other masked individuals climb into the ring and set up a table on each side of the ring.

#Please don't take my sunshine away.

Arik lifts his hand up again and once again snaps his fingers. The lights go out for a moment before coming back on...and suddenly everyone from his masked group is gone. But Rapture and Arik still are in the ring together, with Arik still wearing the Redd outfit.

DING! DING! DING!

ALARA ADAMS: Not sure how much of a fight Rapture is going to put up with, with what Arik just had him go through.

KAYDEN ELLIS: Such a FUCKING coward. And he has the nerve to try to frame me?

Arik pulls back and SLAPS Rapture, sending the big one realling to the side and getting blood on the mat. But before he could get any sort of grip on the reality of things, Holt grabs Rapture and pulls him to his feet. Arik whips Rapture...NO! RAPTURE REVERSES IT AND WHIPS ARIK TOWARDS ONE OF THE TABLES! Holt stops just in time...turns around...AND RAPTURE GRABS ARIK BY THE THROAT!!! RAPTURE LIFTS ARIK UP INTO THE AIR FOR A CHOKESLAM!!! BUT ARIK MANAGES TO KICK RAPTURE SQUARE IN THE NUTS! Rapture lets go and Arik drops onto his own two feet.

ALARA ADAMS: Gotta love seeing Fallout rules on Proving Ground!

KAYDEN ELLIS: Well it’s all because that chicken-shit Larry doesn’t want to anger our glorious General Manager’s Assistant...sarcasm heavily implied!

Arik turns and grabs up under Rapture’s neck...runs over between the tables and UP THE TURNBUCKLE! HE PUSHES OFF!!! SPRINGBOARD CUTTER THROUGH ONE OF THE TABLES!!!

ALARA ADAMS: THAT TABLE JUST EXPLODED!!!

As the sawdust begins to settle, we see Arik Holt standing above a barely moving Rapture. Holt, without missing a beat, slides out of the ring and walks up to Clara Olson and pauses.

KAYDEN ELLIS: GET AWAY FROM HER, ASSHOLE!!!

Kayden throws off his headset and charges at Arik, throwing the best right hook he could. Arik sidesteps and hooks up under Kayden’s arm...wrapping his hand around the back of his neck...KNEELING SHOULDER JAWBREAKER ON KAYDEN ELLIS!!!

ALARA ADAMS: POWDER ON MY CO-HOST!!!

Kayden drops to the ground, grabbing his jaw. Meanwhile, Holt stands back to his feet and turns to Clara again...this time pointing at her chair. Quickly the Fallout Announcer stands up and steps to the side, Holt giving her the sign-language sign for ‘thank you’, before taking the chair and folding it up. With his weapon in hand, Arik slides back to the ring and is quickly up to his feet where he can get a good view of Rapture who has only just begun to sit up. Arik unfolds the chair, places it in the middle of the ring...and sits down in it. He tilts his head to the side as a bloody and quickly bruising Rapture climbs to one knee...then both knees...to one foot...then very unsteadily up to both feet.

ALARA ADAMS: How’s that jaw, bud?

KAYDEN ELLIS: ...sore…

Arik stands to his feet and cracks his neck to both sides as Rapture stumbles forward. He slowly measures up Rapture, before turning and adjusting where the chair was...but leaving it in its sitting position. Holt steps to the other side of the chair and waits for Rapture to stumble forward. Rapture lurches forward with a bad attempt at a grab...ARIK JUMPS IN THE AIR, GRABBING RAPTURE BY THE BACK OF THE HEAD...SITOUT FACEBUSTER ON THE OPEN CHAIR!!! RAPTURE IS BUSTED OPEN AND IS TURNING THE MAT A BEAUTIFUL SHADE OF CRIMSON!!!

ALARA ADAMS: THE MOMENT!!! ARIK HOLT JUST PLANTED RAPTURE WITH THE MOMENT!!!

Arik Holt rolls Rapture over, hooking his leg with the pin.

ONE!
TWO!!
THREE!!!

DING! DING! DING!

CLARA OLSON: And your winner...ARIK...HOOOOLLLLTTT!!!

Arik gets off of Rapture and stands to his feet...grabbing the bent folding chair and folding it so it’s flat.

ALARA ADAMS: Wait...what is he doing?

Arik lifts the chair into the air...AND COMES DOWN HARD ON THE BLOODY FACE OF RAPTURE!!! Arik reaches down and grabs Rapture by the blood-soaked hair, pulling him up to a sitting position. He unfolds the chair slightly, sliding Rapture’s head between the open metal section...then pulls Rapture up the rest of the way, by his hair.

KAYDEN ELLIS: What is he going to do to this guy?

Arik knees Rapture in the gut, causing the big man to double over. An arm around the neck and Arik looks around, eyeing up the closest table and closest turnbuckle. He goes running…

Fans go apeshit!

...AND SAVANNAH SUNSHINE SLIDES INTO THE RING WITH HER ROCK CANDY COVERED BASEBALL BAT!!! Arik Holt stops dead in his tracks...BUT SAVANNAH SWINGS AND CRACKS ARIK HOLT ACROSS THE FACE WITH THE BAT!!! ARIK HOLT DROPS TO THE GROUND, HIS MASK CLATTERING OFF SOMEWHERE IN THE RING!

KAYDEN ELLIS: BEAT HIS ASS!!!

Arik Holt crawls backwards on the ground, sliding up under a table...and then sliding out of the ring under the bottom rope. He lands on his feet, only to turn around and come face to face with Jason Long. Long ROCKS him with a forearm to the head, causing the General Manager Assistant to stumble backwards. Jason grabs him by the arm and WHIPS HIM INTO THE STAIRS!!! ARIK CRASHES INTO THEM AND GOES FLYING OVER THEM!

The Fans began to boo loudly as someone comes running out of the back in a black hoodie and black pants...wearing a blue LED purge mask. The person runs up between the downed Arik Holt and Jason Long and puts their hands out, trying to stop Long from doing more damage. The Fallout Prime Champion grabs this new person by the hoodie, pulls them OVER the stairs, and uses his free hand to rip off the blue mask.

ALARA ADAMS: LARRY KaCHOW?!?!?!

Larry shrugs his shoulders and gives a worried smile as he anticipates the beating Long is going to give him, only to be tossed aside to the ground. But the distraction was enough. Arik Holt was at the top of the ramp, a cut on his right cheek, looking down at Jason and Savannah. Meanwhile in the ring, Savannah picks up the Redd purge mask, before tossing it back on the mat and smashing it to pieces with one good downward swing of her bat.




"In Maidjan" by Heilung hits the speakers of the arena as the lights go out. All eyes turn to the stage, the large tron playing images of storms, rain swept skies in a monochrome tint. The screen provides the only light for the arena, and the music barely competes with the sounds of the fans.

J.T. PRICE: And here he is folks, the Butcher, the Grand Champion, the beast from back East.

TREY BOOKER: Ozymandias has made no friends here in Project Honor, but still the roster waits with bated breaths to stand against the champion. Whether it's a challenge to topple the monster or they have a death wish remains to be seen.

J.T. PRICE: Just listen to these fans, half are cheering and half are booing. It's uncertain whether Ozymandias is welcome here tonight or unwanted but one thing is for sure...the people are alive in his presence.

With all eyes on the stage, people barely notice the ring itself now billowing out thick clouds of fog and mist, dry ice filling the air so that everything below the second rope is enforced in the opaque mist. The entire ring is almost consumed when the shadow motion of bodies and figures can be seen moving in there.

TREY BOOKER: I know he likes to put on a spectacle J.T., but this is actually giving me the creeps.

J.T. PRICE: No joke, what is actually going on in that ring? I can barely see it and I’m ten feet away!

The smoking fog billows higher, so that the top rope remains as the last visible clue of a ring remaining. Dark shadows are seen in the ring, jumping and moving, running in and out of the mist, features unseen but moving lightly, nimble on their feet. A blood curdling scream comes from the ring and a figure drops.

Then another scream, and another figure is seen falling from view back into the fog. The turnbuckles have people scaling it, their heads barely emerging from the fog before some unknown entity drags then back in. That’s when the music dims, only enough for her voice to be heard.

MEREDITH: The veil is lifting, revealing the dangers of the world around you. Hidden in a fog, you live mindlessly, blissfully unaware of the troubles before you. Of the failures, the death, the decay that this world is facing.

More cavorting of the figures, dancing almost to the music as "In Maidjan" continues to play, the beating drums urging the shadows to cavort even more. The arena lights are unable to focus on any movement, only catching their motions in the swaying of the fog itself.

MEREDITH: Fearless and brash, you run into the unknown with a taste for danger on your tongue, your heart racing for excitement. The challenge, the surprise, the unknown.

Another scream, this time from a woman very clearly. Then another, a man in agony, yelling out his final sounds. Then another. Then another. The music continues, the drum beating louder, the smoke continuously billowing into the ring.

MEREDITH: Many have taken the plunge into the deep unknown, prepared to fight but unready to face defeat. You have sent fighters, warriors, champions, but all have crumbled before the might of the unknown. The danger overwhelming them, over powering them.

A loud thud is heard, ending in a sickening soft result. And another, the impacting sounds of solid mass meeting tender flesh. The screams stop, but the horrifying sound of hard impact on soft matter echo around the arena, the music still beating in the background.

MEREDITH: This world is doomed. You are sick, you are all infected, there is no cure, no vaccine, no safety. You are cursed with a common disease... weakness. Weak of the mind, unwilling and unable to fight the veil away and see the truth.

Another series of slams and thuds, the shadows now vanishing but only one remaining in the center, the source of the thuds.

MEREDITH: Weakness of the body, incapable of fighting off a greater being, an unstoppable power. Weak, frail and fragile.

The figure in the center of the fog appears to grow larger, a shadow slowly shifting from its darker form into something more recognizable.

MEREDITH: Weakness of the soul, hollow inside clinching tightly to a false hope, a false promise from a false God. There is no retribution, no sanctuary, no heaven… there is only the truth.

The figure in the center stops moving, and the fog slowly dissipates around them, the arena lights no longer shining on the fog and allowing the natural glow of a thousand fans with phones to capture the scene.

MEREDITH: In the end only one thing matters… the Warrior will remain, to bring HIM back to this world. What is dead may never die, what is dead may never die, what is dead may never die…

Her words continue, on loop playing on repeat as the fog clears away. As it does the arena lims dim down fully until…

TREY BOOKER: Whoa!

J.T. PRICE: What the fu-

The lights surrounding the ring flash on in a blindingly bright red glow, revealing Ozymandias mid-center of the ring holding a sledgehammer. Surrounding him are five, six… a dozen bodies, all battered and beaten, bloodied and broken apart. The lights remain on only for a second before strobing and flashing off, plunging the erena into darkness once more….

Then they return, the lights coming back as normal, to reveal the ring is fully empty of everyone. No Grand Champion, no broken bodies, no sign of anyone being there. Just a message written across the mat in what appears to be blood.

J.T. PRICE: I’m not sure what just happened, but let’s get a close up shot of that text.

TREY BOOKER: ….”Your Soul Belongs...to Him”. What does that even mean?

J.T. PRICE: I think that means Ozymandias has a plan for Cadillac Jackson. Correct me if I’m wrong, but doesn’t he love to sacrifice people to his God? I know he’s done it to others in the past too.

TREY BOOKER: Who knows, but one thing is for sure… I’m really glad I’m not Cadillac Jackson right now. Ozymandias means business!

The fans start to cheer as the arena light returns and all traces of the strange cult actions are gone, the final wisps of mist and fog vanishing.

J.T. PRICE: Later tonight we get to see the contract signing of Ozymandias and Cadillac for the Grand Championship, and I can only wonder what this foretells for that.

TREY BOOKER: I’m sure Caddie is backstage right now freaking out at this. On the plus side, at least it didn’t-

Almost like clockwork, the arena plunges into darkness once more, the sound of thunder blasting across the speakers and lightning on the screen means only one thing.

J.T. PRICE: Dammit Ozy, he made it rain again!

Like a final period on his statement piece, the sprinklers shower the fans in a temporary storm. A little taste of what's to come at the PPV.

TREY BOOKER: I hope the fans brought their ponchos and umbrellas! We’ll cut to a commercial here, so I can run backstage and change into something dry after this! Stay tuned folks!





The camera cuts to the ring where Holly Perez is standing by with a mic in hand.

HOLLY PEREZ: This match is scheduled for ONE FALL… INTRODUCING FIRST…

The opening beat to "oops!!!" by Yung Gravy w/ Lil Wayne graces the ears of everyone in the audience. Peach and pink strobe lights start going off. Every woman in attendance suddenly feels the drip as the lyrics start and Lil Petey steps out onto the stage. Fur coat, multi-colored button up that's only halfway buttoned up, and black pants make up his attire. Petey's got a microphone in hand and starts to rap with the lyrics, even though the mic doesn't actually work.

♫Ayy, supercalifragilisticexpialiexpiali-dope shit
Supercalifragilic-, my ex be on some ho shit
Superman, I get dem bands but ain't gon' buy you roses
Super-duper get them cougars, took my wrist and froze it
Super-duper hoes
Y'all got Oompa Loompa hoes
I ain't never knew ya hoes
Prolly still ran through 'em, though♫

Lil Petey stops on the ramp and looks around at some of the women reaching out to him. He walks up to this couple as the song continues. Petey looks at the dude and points at the chick.

♫Oh, wait, wait, I do know your hoe?
You talkin' 'bout, you talkin' 'bout Tracy?
Nah, nah, nah, nah, you mean like, like, Tracy with the ass?
Tracy with the, with the Honda?
Shit, well♫

Petey winks at the woman and then starts jumping up and down while getting closer to the ring.

♫Oops, baby
Fuck up on your bitch, like oopsy daisy
Never knew that was your boo, baby
Hit her five times in the coupe, Mercedes, whoopsie dai-, yeah
Oops, baby
Gravy hit my bitch, yeah, whoopsie daisy
I just tried to hit, it's my duty, baby
Sippin' on the Goose, like Boosie, baby♫

By this time, Petey is in the ring, taking his fur coat off. He gently hands it to an official outside and vibes in the ring until the start of the match or until his opponent enters.

HOLLY PEREZ: Weighing in at one hundred and eighty pounds… From The Hip House… “Mr. Hydration”, “The Drip Sensation”... LILLLLL PETEYYYYYYYYYY!!!

♫DIRTY, ROTTEN, FILTHY, STINKIN'♫

As the beginning lyrics to "Cherry Pie" by Warrant ended and right before the guitar comes in, Cole Madden runs out onto the stage with his 1968 Les Paul Custom Ebony Ultra Light Aged. Cole starts playing the guitar riff as it plays. Most of the crowd joins in on the next lyrics while Cole continues to play the guitar, mouthing the words with the crowd.

♫She's my cherry pie
Cool drink of water, such a sweet surprise
Tastes so good, makes a grown man cry
Sweet Cherry Pie, yeah♫

The next guitar verse plays and Cole steps up onto the stage a bit further and continues to strum the guitar with the music all the way up to the next lyrics. Before the next lyrics start, he swings the guitar around his back and starts walking down the ramp. While the lyrics go on, Cole moves his body in the rhythm of the song and in the direction it says.

♫Well, swingin' on the front porch, swingin' on the lawn
Swingin' where we want 'cause there ain't nobody home
Swingin' to the left and swingin' to the right
If I think about baseball, I'll swing all night, yeah
Yeah, yeah
Swingin' in the living room, swingin' in the kitchen
Most folks don't 'cause they're too busy bitchin'
Swingin' in there 'cause she wanted me to feed her
So I mixed up the batter and she licked the beater♫

By this time, Cole is in the ring just jamming along with the song and strumming his guitar as if he was actually playing the music. Before the music can make it's way back to the chorus, it slowly fades out and Cole hands his guitar over to the ref, telling him to be careful with it as it's placed at ringside.

HOLLY PEREZ: And his opponent, making his Project: Honor debut… Weighing in at two hundred and fifteen pounds… From Los Angeles, California… COLEEEE MADDDEENNNN!!!

Before the ref signal for the start of the match, Cole and Petey charge at one another. Right as they meet in the middle of the ring, they come to an abrupt halt and instead of striking one another or anything wrestling related… they start playing rock, paper, scissors?

TREY BOOKER: … what is going on?

J.T. PRICE: They just worked the shit out of me...

Lil Petey throws rock while Cole throws paper. They went again, this time Cole threw rock and Petey threw paper.

TREY BOOKER: Are they really playing this game right now?

J.T. PRICE: How did they know they were going to do that? There’s something going on and my head hurts!

Another round passes with Petey throwing scissors and Cole throwing paper. Their fourth go around happens with Petey throwing scissors again and Cole throwing Rock. It was tied 2-2 with one final game to go.

TREY BOOKER: Well shit, this game is crazy! You can feel the intensity!

J.T. PRICE: LET’S GO PETEY!!!

Both of them shake their hands in preparation for the final round. They get ready… and… Petey throws rock while Cole throws scissors. Petey wins the game of rock, paper, scissors! The crowd goes nuts just as he does. Petey runs to the corner turnbuckle and jumps to the top with his hands raised in victory.

TREY BOOKER: Even Holly is confused if she needs to announce this or not, but what a game that was!

J.T. PRICE: I’m still curious how they were on the same page with this, but I feel like we’re about to get answers as Cole is asking for two mics right now!

A PH Official hands Cole two mics and then returns to the side of the announcer table. Cole waits patiently for Petey to get off the turnbuckle.

CROWD: PETEY! PETEY! PETEY!

Petey continues to bask in the glory of his victory and the chants coming from the crowd.

COLE MADDEN: You’ve been waiting for this for years, haven’t you, Pete?

The crowd silences and Petey jumps off the turnbuckle, turning around to face Cole. He takes one of the mics and waits a second before saying anything. Suddenly, a team of people crawl out from under the ring with a table, two chairs and some random decorations. They set the table up in the middle of the ring, the chairs on opposite sides and the decorations around the ring. The team then runs up the ramp while everyone looks confused as hell. Both Cole and Petey take a seat at the table before Petey lifts the mic up to his mouth.

LIL PETEY: You wanna tell me what you’re doing here, dawg?

Silence strikes the arena for a split second.

COLE MADDEN: I’ve been having a lot of fun recording your stuff for you for a while now and somehow they got a hold of me asking if I’d be interested in joining.

LIL PETEY: These muhfuckas really just be recruitin’ like that, huh?

COLE MADDEN: I guess! One second we’re filming shit for you, the next I’m signing this contract that says they can use my likeness and image even if I’m not here anymore!

LIL PETEY: Shit that sounds very familiar! Better be careful with that!

COLE MADDEN: Anyways, I have ZERO wrestling training, but they wanted to pay me that good money. Figured I could start working with you since you’ve been growing hella fast.

LIL PETEY: I wish something else would grow hella fast.

The two burst out laughing simultaneously.

COLE MADDEN: What do you say, brother?

Gasps fill the arena at the realization of who this might be.

LIL PETEY: Wait, you still gonna film my stuff for me??

COLE MADDEN: I may not have time if I’m gonna be training and preparing for this shit, ya know? I’ll still be around!

LIL PETEY: Night of Honor is up next and we’re in the same area for that, so what if you film mine and I’ll film yours? You know, like some casting couch shit?

COLE MADDEN: PAUSE, PETE!

The simultaneous laughter starts up again after Petey’s last comment.

LIL PETEY: I still don’t like you using my first name! You know this as you’ve been around me since I was fuckin’ born, dawg.

COLE MADDEN: I didn’t like that you wanted to become a rapper instead of joining me on the road, but here we are.

Silence strikes as the two just stare at each other for a second.

LIL PETEY: We’ll save that for later, yeah? For now, we gotta let these people know what the fuck is going on. They just witnessed what they thought was gonna be a match turn into this.

Cole had completely forgotten he was in the middle of the ring and looks out at the crowd watching them.

COLE MADDEN: Oh, right. Well if you’ve picked up anything since we’ve been talking, you probably gathered that we do know each other and I’m the one that’s actually filming his promotional material as of recently.

LIL PETEY: He’s almost my brother. Motherfucker left when I was young to hit the road as a rockstar and here he is.

COLE MADDEN: Bitch, you’re here too after trying to become a rapper.

LIL PETEY: I said save that for later, hoe!

COLE MADDEN: Pete here could never beat me in rock, paper, scissors and it looks like he has been practicing enough to take me down. He’s now ready for the big leagues.

LIL PETEY: Shitttt, I’ve been in the big leagues, you’re the one that’s ready now!

COLE MADDEN: Better watch yourself before you end up on the ground like when you were little.

Petey gets ready to square up with his brother until something triggers in his head.

LIL PETEY: WAIT! Remember that one thing we used to do when we were younger? One of us always ended up getting hurt, but we had a blast anyway.

A few seconds go by as Cole tries to remember this memory Petey mentioned.

COLE MADDEN: If you’re talking about what I think… what are we waiting for??

Without any hesitation, Petey and Cole run out of the ring and up the ramp, then to backstage.


Darkness.

The scene opens up in total darkness, not a sight to see or a sound to be heard. Anyone watching might believe that their television, computer or phone has started to act up. A normal response, why would any kind of segment just open up to nothing.

That nothing doesn’t last forever, it’s fleeting. A light appears, shining down from the ceiling to present to us a mask. A rooster mask.

This isn’t any mask, as we can see it’s been well worn. The materials used have stretched and grown saggy over time, there’s still dirt and specks of blood on it. Hell, even by its presentation it looks like it is just floating in the air.

The mask spins around in silence, on what could be a lazy susan. For a few brief seconds this is all we get.

Until a voice breaks the silence.

??: Hello, Project Honor.

That voice, so familiar yet so foreign at the same time. Those clued in may know, but others won’t. That is okay, because this is the introduction.

The mask stops spinning, now facing the camera. The voice speaks again, and it’s almost like the mask is talking to us all.

??: It’s good to see you all so soon. After what had happened, I wasn’t sure when the next time I would step foot into a wrestling ring.

The voice pauses, briefly.

??: But opportunity always arises, and a new challenge awaits me. A murdered house wouldn’t be the end. Union wasn’t the end. These things were just the journey, and now my journey has brought me here.

Another pause.

??: The proving ground. For so long I’ve tried to prove myself to everyone. I tried to climb to the top and make everyone know my name. There hasn’t been a company I’ve been to that didn’t witness the greatness inside of me. Still, this business grows and there are corners that I still haven’t even touched yet. And so, another opportunity arises.

The light cuts out, the mask slipping away from our view.

When it cuts back on, we see Bryan Williams standing there in front of the camera. Surrounded by the darkness, and backed by nothing.

BRYAN WILLIAMS: So again, I’ll prove myself and show this company exactly what Bryan Williams brings to the table. I will show Project Honor exactly who I am, and they will see my greatness.

The camera glitches, we see Bryan standing there briefly as he wears the mask. The image doesn’t last long, as things return to normal.

BRYAN WILLIAMS: You won’t have to wait long. I will be seeing you all very soon.

The camera glitches, the scene growing fuzzy and pixelated as the mask returns. Shrouded over his head, Bryan stares into the camera as the distorted light above him dies out.


When we return to ringside, the reigning Warrior Rising Champion, Emmanuelle, is already in the center of the ring with her two top contenders nearby. Lil’ Petey is vibin’ in one corner of the ring after putting his plans with Cole on hold, while Tara Fenix watches both of them from the opposite side.

HOLLY PEREZ: Ladies and gentlemen, will you please welcome the man who will oversee tonight’s coin toss...Proving Ground’s General Manager...INDY DARLING!!!

“Just Like You” by Falling In Reverse begins to play as the GM steps onto the entrance stage in his normal, casual attire of blue jeans and a denim vest, but it’s clear to see that the black tee shirt underneath is printed with “DEMARCO SUX” in bold white letters. He smiles and acknowledges the fans as he makes his way toward the ring, slapping hands with fans here and there. Once he’s in the ring and his music has died down, Holly Perez hands him her microphone and takes her leave. As Indy prepares to speak, both Tara and Lil’ Petey take a few steps forward.

INDY DARLING: First of all, I appreciate all three of you joining me to determine which of the Warrior Rising contenders will compete against Emmanuelle first and which competitor will face the winner during week two. Along with the current champion, whoever loses this coin toss will face the possibility of competing for The Warrior Rising Championship on two consecutive Night of Honor events. Whoever wins this toss will have the advantage by sitting out the first week and challenging the winner.

Indy looks from the champion to the challengers, making sure what he’s said is clear to all involved. Emmanuelle glances from side to side with a sneer on her face, while Tara’s expression remains focused and Lil’ Petey grins and nods his head.

INDY DARLING: With that out of the way, I’ll flip the coin and Tara will call it in the air…

LIL’ PETEY: Whoa! Hold up, Drip Darling. Why does she get to call it?

TARA FENIX: Maybe because I made you tap out…?

LIL’ PETEY: I only tapped cause you were pinned and didn’t break the hold…

TARA FENIX: Are you serious? You were practically crying for your mother…

LIL’ PETEY: Takes a MILF to know a MILF, amiright? Besides, at least I wasn’t lying on my back...

TARA FENIX: Okay...this childish stupidity thing you have going on was amusing at first, but now this MILF is going to give you a spanking that you WON’T enjoy...

Tara takes another step forward, clearly having heard enough of Petey’s playful banter, and it looks as if The GM is going to have to separate them, when Emmanuelle suddenly steps forward and grabs the microphone from his hand.

EMMANUELLE: ENOUGH! As the longest reigning champion in this COMPANY, as someone who deserves more respect than they’re being shown, and as the only one in the ring with some common sense, I’ll decide who calls it!

Tara and Petey look from each other to the champion as she hands the microphone back to Indy. He considers the situation for a moment and then finally shrugs his shoulders.

INDY DARLING: That...seems fair. Okay, Emmanuelle, who would you like to call the toss?

Without saying a word, The Platinum Standard turns her head toward Tara Fenix, glaring at her with eyes full of competitive fire. Then, she raises her arm and points a finger in Petey’s direction without breaking eye contact with The Phoenix Queen. There is a trace of a satisfied smile on her face as an excited Petey pumps his fists in the air.

INDY DARLING: Okay, Petey. Here we go…

Indy flips the coin high into the air with his thumb…

LIL’ PETEY: Heads naturally…

...and he catches the coin in his fist as it spins back down. He slaps the coin flat against the back of his wrist, and while Petey leans in to get a closer look, Emmanuelle and Tara continue to stare each other down. Finally Indy pulls his hand away to reveal which side has landed face up…

INDY DARLING: Heads it is! Lil’ Petey officially gets a bye to week two as Emmanuelle will defend The Warrior Rising Championship against Tara Fenix during week one!

Lil’ Petey cannot contain his excitement as he breaks out into some fly dance moves, while Emmanuelle and Tara continue to lock eyes. Without breaking her stare, The Platinum Standard unfastens the championship belt from around her waist and slowly raises it into the air. Tara gives her a nod of understanding as Petey tries to regain his composure, feeling left out of the dramatic face-off. He approaches Emmanuelle’s opposite side with his eyes glued to the belt, as the champion glances over her shoulder to glare in his direction.





The arena lights dim, flashing intermittently to the bass as the camera shifts over to the entrance ramp. As the drums go full tilt, Black Mamba bursts out behind the curtain, a grin on his face as he stops to take in the fans. He walks over to the left to pump the fans up, then walks over to the right, hyping them up eagerly.

HOLLY PEREZ: Residing from Oxford, England...weighing in at two hundred and fifty pounds...

Joyanne joins him on the ramp as he gives his ring jacket collar a pop, the smile slowly leaving his face as he begins to walk down the ramp as his wife walks alongside him towards the ring.

HOLLY PEREZ: Accompanied by the Scarlet Rose....BLACK MAMMMMMBA!

The lights go completely out, the Honor Tron completely blacked out until the drums begin to kick in. A black heart on a white background plays on the tron, and as it beats the sound of clapping in the song’s background can be heard. As “NOTHING IN THE CAGE OF MY RIBCAGE” echoes throughout the arena, Crowley enters with his hood and mask on. He walks down to the ring in complete darkness with red lighting circling throughout the building to give the fans something to view. As he gets onto the apron, he turns to the crowd to remove his hood revealing just his mask.

HOLLY PEREZ: And his opponent...hailing from Sin City and weighing in at two hundred twenty three pounds… “Damned Heart”...JAY CROWLEY!!!

He enters the ring and as he is announced he rips off his mask, posing with his arms spread out in the middle of the ring, eyes closed as he simply drowns in a full white spotlight on him before moving to his corner.

As "Rats" By Ghost begins to play, the lights in the area begin to flash between bright green and yellow. A mischief of rats begins to scurry out from behind the curtains followed by Percival "Ratman" Burque riding atop a shopping cart filled with random miscellaneous items (likely his food, supplies, etc.). The rats scurry around while Ratman moves his hands as if he's conducting the rats along with the music. The cart continues slowly rolling forward until it begins barreling toward the ring. Ratman begins to panic and tumbles out of the cart as it slams into the ring. The rats scurry toward Ratman and run around him as he slowly recovers to his feet. Ratman then begins to sway back and forth to the music as he rises, lifting his arms into the air. Ratman looks to the sky while closing his eyes and begins to slowly spin in a circle.

Ratman stops after a full rotation and opens his eyes.

HOLLY PEREZ: And their opponent...fighting out of the sewers and weighing in at one hundred fifty five pounds… “Wrestling Supreme”...RATMAN PERCIVAL BURQUE!!!

DING! DING! DING!

TREY BOOKER: In a night full of unusual match ups and new faces, this one may be the most unique contest of them all. We’ve got a member of the Fallout roster, a member of the Proving Ground roster, and then we have Percival Burque, who probably doesn’t even know what roster he belongs to.

J.T. PRICE: There’s a word for this that comes to mind...it’s right on the tip of my tongue...oh yeah, clusterfuck. This is going to be a clusterfuck, Trey.

Crowley looks to get things off to a fast start as he charges toward James Ranger across the ring, looking to plant a running kick on the man known as Black Mamba. The attempt is foiled by a block from Ranger’s hands, who then fires back with a European uppercut to push Crowley back a few steps. As this opening exchange is taking place, Percival Burque slides down to a seated position in one of the corners and watches things unfold with a rat perched upon his shoulder. Mamba is able to hit a cross chop on Crowley and then attempts to follow up with a running enzuigiri, but Jay ducks under the kick and ends up facing Ranger’s back. This gives him the opportunity to lock on a standing sleeperhold, which he maintains for a few moments before turning it into a sleeper suplex.

Crowley takes a moment to notice Percival in the corner and then shakes his head with disgust before turning his attention back to James Ranger. As Black Mamba is starting to sit up, Crowley bounces off the ropes and comes back with his Sliding D Forearm Smash, immediately following it up with a cover!

ONE!
TWO!
KICKOUT!

Not to be deterred, Crowley pulls Ranger to his feet and gets him into position for a piledriver, but Black Mamba has enough wherewithal to counter the attempt with a simple back body drop. Crowley hits the mat but holds onto Ranger’s legs, looking to roll him down with a modified sunset flip. Instead, The Black Mamba maintains his balance and drives a hard fist down to the center of Crowley’s face. He then wraps his hands around Crowley’s throat and pulls him back to a standing position before transitioning into an overhead choke toss. Crowley’s body bounces off the ropes and crashes to the canvas in an uncomfortable way, stunning him long enough for Ranger to turn his attention towards Burque. Without warning, Black Mamba charges across the ring and hits a basement dropkick on The Ratman while he’s still seated in the corner, drilling both of his feet into the unsuspecting man’s chest.

Burque rolls to the outside and Ranger is quick to follow him, driving a couple of forearms against Percival’s back before setting him up for a suplex piledriver. Once he’s in the air, Burque wiggles enough to drop behind Ranger and then strikes him with a sudden headbutt! The move stuns Black Mamba long enough for Burque to follow up with a superkick, but Ranger remains on his feet! Burque keeps him off balance with a few elbow strikes before getting back onto the ring apron and then leaping off to finally take Ranger down with a hurricanrana! Now sooner has Black Mamba hit the floor than Jay Crowley reenters the fray, diving through the ropes to take Burque out with a suicide dive!

TREY BOOKER: All three men are fully invested now, and I’d say we can forget about any double team attempts by the two men from Proving Ground!

J.T. PRICE: That could be a huge break for Black Mamba. If Burque and Crowley are at each other’s throats, it really improves his chances!

Following his dive on Burque, Crowley decides to leave the Ratman laying and return his attention to Black Mamba. He rolls him back under the bottom rope and climbs onto the apron, but just as he’s ready to springboard back into the ring, Percival grabs his feet and yanks him back to the floor, dropping his face against the ring apron! He then hits Crowley with a suplex for good measure, dropping his body against the unprotected entrance ramp! Ratman then slides back into the ring as James Ranger is getting to his feet, but instead of hitting a quick move, Percival calls for a test of strength! The Black Mamba looks at Burque as if he’s insane, the one hundred pound weight difference between the two men obvious for all to see.

Expecting an easy win, Ranger agrees to lock hands with Burque for the test of strength, but before he can exert his dominance over Burque, The Ratman leans in and licks Ranger’s face! The tactic is so shocking that Black Mamba is helpless as Burque rolls him to the mat in a small package!

ONE!
TWO!
THR - KICKOUT!

The fury on Ranger’s face is clear as he gets back to his feet and swings wildly at Burque, who ducks under the clothesline and then wraps his arm around The Black Mamba’s head! Percival fully leaps onto Ranger’s back with his legs scissored around his midsection, locking in his Smelling Salts modified dragon sleeper! Despite all the weight of Burque on his back, Ranger remains standing in the ring, desperately reaching out for the nearest rope! With neither man aware of his presence, Jay Crowley slides back into the ring and charges at both men, hitting Ranger’s unprotected midsection with a spear! The impact takes Black Mamba off his feet as he crashes down backwards on top of Burque, the dragon sleeper now broken up as well.

Crowley crouches down over Burque to punish him with a flurry of punches, but this gives Ranger a much needed chance to recover. He grabs the unsuspecting Crowley from behind and lifts him off of Burque before dropping him back with a German suplex! He keeps his arms locked for a pinning attempt!

ONE!
TWO!
NO! BROKEN UP BY BURQUE!

Ranger turns his attention towards The Ratman and gives him three consecutive knee strikes to the chest for his efforts! Following this Royal Triple, Ranger lands one more knee to Burque’s head and then takes him over with a German suplex for the pin!

ONE!
TWO!
NO! BROKEN UP BY CROWLEY!

Percival rolls toward the ringside area as The Black Mamba is now forced to turn his attention back to Jay Crowley, but The Damned Heart is prepared as he immediately hooks Ranger and drives him to the mat with The Atonement!

ONE!
TWO!
THREE!

DING! DING! DING!

HOLLY PEREZ: The winner of the match by way of pinfall… “Damned Heart”...JAY CROWLEY!!!

TREY BOOKER: Impressive stuff there by Jay Crowley! It felt like this one could go in any direction, but it wasn’t the night for Burque or Ranger!

J.T. PRICE: Proving Ground one, Fallout zero! Now if Swindle Shelldrake can follow up on his partner’s win, we’ll have a clean sweep!


Following the previous contest, one of the roving cameras takes us to Project: Honor’s owner, Rock Johnson, as he makes his way through the backstage area. Several superstars are moving about, some keeping their distance from the boss while others take the time to greet him. We see Earl Boyde pass by, his head in bandages from last night’s Fallout…

Earl Boyde: Hey, boy.

Earl doesn’t even hesitate as he continues on his way, but his greeting forces Rock to stop in his tracks and give him a befuddled look. Moments later, another familiar face approaches, but just as Johnson is preparing to greet the icon known as John Blade, Big Match John holds his open hand in front of his face, waves it a few times, and then keeps walking. Rock shakes his head in a disbelieving manner as another familiar face starts to approach.

JULIUS FAIRWEATHER: Big Rocky J! How’s it hangin’ my brother?

ROCK JOHNSON: Furious Julie! My man!

The two men exchange a complex series of fist bumps and hand slaps before ending the greeting by pointing their index fingers at each other. Julius then continues on his way with a nod of his head, leaving Johnson with a huge smile on his face. The owner only makes it a few more steps before that smile begins to fade, as he sees another of his employees rushing towards him…

LARRY KACHOW: Mr. Johnson! Wow! I’ve been looking all over for you!

KaChow holds out his hand in a desperate attempt to recreate the secret handshake he’s just witnessed, but Johnson leaves him hanging.

ROCK JOHNSON: I’m extremely busy right now, Jerry…

LARRY KACHOW: I know exactly what you mean! I’ve been running the show tonight, you know, booking the matches and stuff. Has this been a great episode of Proving Ground or what?!

ROCK JOHNSON: ...eh…

LARRY KACHOW: Don't worry, I promise that the rest of the show will go off without a hitch! Anyway, this will only take a minute. I’m sure you remember that we had a meeting scheduled tonight, but I just can’t wait any longer. Mr. Johnson...sir...I have something for you…

Larry dips his hand inside of his sports jacket, and suddenly a plain-clothes security officer bursts onto the scene from off screen, tackling Larry to the ground!

SECURITY: GUN!

Johnson watches nonchalantly as two more of his private security guards rush into the scene, grabbing Larry by each arm to drag him back to his feet. It’s clear to see that he’s stunned and in pain by the expression on his face, but it is also clear to see that he does not have a weapon. Instead, he holds a severely damaged piece of paper in his hand that looks as if it has been patched together with scotch tape. As the security officers begin to realize that KaChow is not a threat, one of them speaks into his wireless headset.

SECURITY: False alarm. I repeat, The Eagle is secure. As you were, sir.

Johnson watches as his security officers step aside and then takes notice of the paper in Larry’s hand.

ROCK JOHNSON: Sorry about that, Barry. Can’t be too careful with all that shit Arik Holt has been up to. What’s that you’ve got in your hand?

Larry vigorously shakes his head as he wobbles from one foot to the other.

LARRY KACHOW: It’s...uh...my signatures…

Johnson’s face lights up as he attempts to put Larry at ease with an act of false surprise and admiration. He then takes the paper out of Larry’s hand and unfolds it, taking a brief second to glance at the various signatures.

ROCK JOHNSON: Hey! Look at you! That’s really something, Gary. You got all those people to give you an autograph. Way to go, kid…

KaChow smiles sheepishly, then quickly shakes it off as he realizes that Rock Johnson has no idea what the paper is for.

LARRY KACHOW: Uh...no! That’s my petition to have Caden Young removed as Assistant General Manager and for me to be promoted in his place! Remember...you told me to get signatures and you’d consider…

ROCK JOHNSON: Whoa, whoa, whoa! Nobody tells The Johnson what he said! I know exactly what this is, and I’m going to take it back to my office for some serious consideration! You did some good work here, Harry! You should be proud of yourself!

Rock folds the paper back up and slides it into one of his pockets. He then gives Larry a firm pat on the back.

ROCK JOHNSON: Now then, I’ve got places to go and people to see. Keep up the good work, Terry.

The owner briskly walks away, leaving KaChow staggering away in a state of confusion. The camera continues to follow Johnson until he runs into another member of the staff, Director of Weapon Placement, Chadwick Bundy. Rock puts up his hand to stop Bundy in his tracks and then pulls the piece of paper back out of his pocket.

ROCK JOHNSON: Hey, I need you to go put this on eBay. There’s a bunch of famous signatures on it, so make sure you set a high reserve.

Johnson forces the tattered petition into the hands of a confused Chadwick Bundy, straightens out his suit jacket, and then continues on his way with a satisfied grin.



HOLLY PEREZ: The following match is scheduled for one fall… Already in the ring… Standing at six foot, six inches tall… Weighing in at two hundred and thirty two pounds… From San Antonio, Texas… Don Dada… BRRRAAANNNDDDOOONNN HEEENNNDDDRRRIIIXXX!!!

"Power" by Kayne West fades out as Brandon Hendrix stands in the ring with a smug look on his face.

TREY BOOKER: If Brandon Hendrix isn’t ready for the fight of his life, Mark Hunter is going to destroy him.

“Feel Invincible” by Skillet suddenly sounds throughout the building and the crowd erupt into an undeniably positive response. After a few seconds' pause Mark Hunter strolls out onto the ramp area, he smirks in a self-satisfied and confident manner at the reaction from the fans and begins his walk down to the ring. Mark acknowledges a few fans with fist bumps as he wanders down the ramp, he continues to receive the great crowd response as he ascends the ring steps. He enters between the middle and top rope and instantly wanders over to the far corner, Hunter climbs up and poses for the crowd whilst taking in the response from the fans. He soon steps down to the canvas and stretches his arms in the air before readying himself for action. At this stage the music slowly fades away.

HOLLY PEREZ: And his opponent… a former Grand Champion and the Team Captain of Team Proving Ground...hailing from San Jose, California and weighing in at two hundred and eleven pounds… “The Straight Shooter”....MARK HUNTER!!!

TREY BOOKER: We all know the level Hunter is at whereas for Hendrix this is make or break.

The ref calls for the bell… DING! DING! DING!

Like a bullet being fired out of a gun, Mark flies towards Brandon Hendrix, he tackles the bigger man and starts laying in quick fire rights and lefts! After letting a few go, the referee admonishes Mark for using a closed fist, but the distraction allows Brandon to slide away and escape under the bottom rope to the outside.

J.T. PRICE: If you are intent on invading the privacy of a man's life and then tell lies about it, you gotta expect him to come out firing.

TREY BOOKER: I think mistaken would be a better term than lie, but I agree with expecting Mark Hunter to come out swinging. Would be sensible of Brandon to take his time here.

Mark Hunter goes to follow Brandon but the ref pushes him back, Mark puts his hands up in acceptance and creates plenty of room. The ref threatens to start counting, but Brandon cuts him off by sliding into the ring. Hendrix offers Mark a test of strength but Hunter just shakes his head and again charges at the bigger man. Obviously being more ready for it this time, Brandon ducks under a clothesline attempt, Mark carries on running and bounces back off the ropes into a huge big boot that drops him to the mat hard. Hendrix doesn’t even waste a breath before lifting Mark up to his feet, he hooks his arms and sends him flying with a butterfly suplex. Brandon makes a cover…

ONE!
T… KICK OUT!!

TREY BOOKER: This version of Brandon Hendrix is like a different beast, a couple of great moves to take control.

J.T. PRICE: Brandon Hendrix has all the physical tools needed to be a star, just needs to keep his head in the game rather than worry too much about what others think.

As both get to their feet, Hendrix drives his smaller opponent into the corner, he keeps him there with three hard shoulders to the gut. After pushing his shoulder in for a fourth time he uses his weight to push Hunter up and onto the top rope, as Mark takes a deep breath and holds his ribs, Brandon joins him on the top rope… but not for long… HUGE SUPERPLEX THAT SPIKES MARK HUNTER ON HIS HEAD!!

TREY BOOKER: Damn that move was evil!

J.T. PRICE: You know when Brandon said he intended to destroy Mark… I think he just killed him!

Brandon hooks the leg…

ONE!
TWO!
THRE… SHOULDER UP!!

Incensed at the count, Brandon starts following and berating the referee. The time this takes gives Mark the chance to crawl up behind his larger opponent, he pulls him down with a surprise roll up…

ONE!
TWO!
THRE… NO… KICK OUT BY BRANDON!!

TREY BOOKER: Do not take your eyes off a talent the caliber of Mark Hunter!

J.T. PRICE: First of all, how is Mark not dead after that landing? Second, that right there was inexperience from Brandon, he could have finished Hunter with one more big move yet he nearly lost.

Both men get to their feet but Mark needs the help of the ropes to do so. Seeing the weakened state of his opponent, Brandon charges in attempting to hit the Acknowledge spear… Hunter finds a second wind though and leapfrogs the move. Brandon nails the turnbuckle seriously hard shoulder first, and as he turns back obviously favoring his shoulder he is met with a kick to the gut doubling him over, Mark grabs the head and nails a Twist Of Fate!!

TREY BOOKER: The Antidote!!!

Brandon is down but Hunter, although unsteady is back up, Mark looks toward the fallen Hendrix and chooses to climb the turnbuckle. Due to the attack on his gut area and sick head-first landing earlier, he isn’t quick but does get there, he takes off with a beautiful Shooting Star Press!!

TREY BOOKER: Zero Gravity!!!

The landing is perfect and without wasting a second, Mark Hunter hooks both legs…

ONE!
TWO!
THREE!! NO!!! HENDRIX ACTUALLY KICKS OUT!!!

J.T. PRICE: HOLY FUCKING SHIT BALLS!!!!!!

TREY BOOKER: How the fuck has Brandon Hendrix just kicked out of not one but two of Hunter’s signature moves hit back to back?

The crowd gasps as one and Hunter rolls away to a corner staring at Hendrix in clear disbelief. Mark can be clearly seen to mouth “wow”. Due to the effect the match has had on Mark he doesn’t rush toward Brandon, who is very slowly beginning to stir, it’s Brandon’s turn now to use the ropes.

J.T. PRICE: I don’t care what anyone thinks anymore… Brandon Hendrix fucking belongs!!

Mark approaches Brandon but is met by a rope assisted and extremely desperate looking Superman Punch!! Both men are down!!

TREY BOOKER: Where the hell did Brandon get the strength for that?

The ref starts a count as both men are down…

ONE!
TWO!
THREE!
FOUR!
FIVE!
SIX!
SEVE… Both men begin to stir and get to the point of breaking the count. Hunter looks the slightly more unstable of the two due to the punch, but showing no fear he stumbles towards Brandon, Hendrix though shows a sick grin and springs forward with A BRUTAL SPEAR!!

TREY BOOKER: ACKNOWLEDGE!!!

J.T. PRICE: HE’S DONE IT!!! COVER HIM BRANDON!!!

Brandon Hendrix hooks the far leg of the lifeless Mark Hunter…

ONE!
TWO!
THREE! … NO!!!!!!!!! MARK HUNTER KICKS OUT TO A MASSIVE POP FROM THE CROWD!!

J.T. PRICE: NO FUCKING WAY!!

TREY BOOKER: I can’t believe that just happened. Even more crazy… both men are back on their knees.

Although both men are completely spent it doesn’t stop them trading blows, being the bigger man Hendrix appears to be getting the better of the situation until Mark blocks one and transitions into The Anaconda Vice!! Brandon is dead central in the ring…

TREY BOOKER: THE LAST ACT!!

J.T. PRICE: We hardly ever see Mark forced into using this.

Brandon struggles but Mark has it locked in tight, the ref gets in close and asks Brandon if he’s had enough but gets told to “fuck off”. The resistance of Brandon Hendrix goes on for a short while but eventually he uses the last bit of strength he has left… BRANDON HENDRIX TAPS OUT!!!

DING! DING! GING!

TREY BOOKER: Hendrix taps!!

J.T. PRICE: Wow, what a match!! Mark won but that was without doubt the start of something for Brandon Hendrix!

Mark Hunter slowly rolls away from the fallen Hendrix whilst shaking his head in an almost disbelieving manner. Both men will be feeling the effects of this one for some time.

HOLLY PEREZ: THE WINNER… VIA SUBMISSION…THE STRAIGHT SHOOTER... MARK HUNTER!!!

Hunter rolls out of the ring whilst Brandon begins to stir.




When we return from break, a table has been set up in the center of the ring and Proving Ground General Manager, Indy Darling, has already made his entrance.

INDY DARLING: Ladies and gentlemen, it’s now time for the Grand Championship Contract Signing! Please welcome the challenger and number one contender… “The Luxury Experience”...CADILLAC JACKSON!

ALL OF THE LIGHTS

"All of the Lights" by Kanye West hits, and the lights go out. Small flashes of multicolored lasers shoot through the arena in the dark, as a large white spotlight scans the crowd during the intro of the song. As we approach the drop, the lights go out besides the spotlight that stays on the middle of the entrance curtain. As the drums and lyrics pick up in the song after the drop, Cadillac bursts through the curtain and into the spotlight, where he stands soaking in it for a few moments. He then makes his way to the ring with the spotlight following him, pointing and waving at fans while making sure to be out of reach of them. He walks up the stairs and onto the apron, leaning his back against the ropes and surveying the crowd before spinning around and hopping into the ring. He goes to the top rope and removes his sunglasses and ring jacket, handing it to a stagehand before hopping down and approaching the General Manager. Without explanation, he takes Indy Darling’s microphone and raises it up…

CADILLAC JACKSON: Before we get this party started, I have a little something special for all of my adoring fans…

With a big grin, Cadillac holds out his hand and gives a dramatic snap of his fingers. There is a loud bursting noise from the rafters, and moments later we see a cloud of pieces of paper floating toward the ring and the audience. As the papers get closer to arms reach, one of the ringside cameras zoom in on one lucky fan who’s been able to snag one out of the air. As he holds it up for the camera, we see that it is a mock one hundred dollar bill with Cadillac Jackson’s smiling face where Benjamin Franklin’s should be.

CADILLAC JACKSON: That big goofus, Ozymandias, isn’t the only one who can make it rain, just like he’s not the only one capable of carrying this brand as The Grand Champion!

With a satisfied smirk and a surprisingly great round of applause supporting him, Caddy then hands the microphone back to Indy Darling.

INDY DARLING: Wow...a little showmanship before we get down to business. I like it. Now, will you all please welcome his opponent at Night of Honor...the reigning Grand Champion of Project: Honor… “The Butcher of Reine”...OZYMANDIAS!

As the slow, creeping sounds of Heilung start to play the lights around the entrance dim down to bare visibility. The drums of the song beat, as small glimpses of a rainstorm can be seen on screen. The stage itself begins to billow out a thick fog, a cold mist curling its way along the platform and down the ramp. Quickly, the stage itself is engulfed in the fog, as much of the ramp is also. A small light shines its weak glow from the entrance, shining against the figure of a man. His silhouette, huge in size against the soft light now moves as he does, down the ramp and through the curtain of mist. He emerges towards the end of the ramp, his form now fully visible… Ozymandias.

He pauses before the ring, staring into the squared-cage before slowly removing his jacket and placing it under the apron. He stands upright, cracks his neck in both directions then power-squats onto the apron, before entering through the ropes. With Meredith Agnar watching from ringside with a sly smile, the champion approaches the opposite side of the table. Not even giving Cadillac the satisfaction of a sideways glance, Ozymandias picks up one of the fake bills that has landed on the table, looks at it for a few seconds, and then crumples it in his fist before tossing it over his shoulder.

INDY DARLING: Gentlemen, we all know how these things usually turn out, so let’s try to remain our composure and keep things professional for a change. If you’d both take your seats…

Now with their eyes locked on each other, both champion and challenger slide their chairs out from the table and lower themselves into them. Indy Darling does the same before placing his microphone in a stand at the center of the table.

INDY DARLING: First, we’ll have the challenger sign the contract and make any comments he deems necessary. Cadillac, the floor is yours...

With the official contract sitting in front of him, the challenger leans forward in his chair and takes a few moments to stare down at it. Then, he slowly raises his head with a smirk as his eyes fall on the champion.

CADILLAC JACKSON: I’ve got to say, at first I wondered if you even knew who in the hell I was. I assumed you were just like everyone else around here, underestimating me and not giving me a single moment of thought. Then something happened to change my mind.

The challenger picks the pen up from the table and fiddles with it between his fingers as he continues to focus on Ozymandias, a confident smile on his face.

CADILLAC JACKSON: Then I faced Mark Hunter in the main event of the last Proving Ground, and you decided to come out for your public shower routine. That’s when I realized that not only am I in your head, but you recognize me as the threat I truly am. You know, deep down in that waterlogged heart of yours, that I’m the man who will take the Grand Championship away from you, and maybe for the first time in his life, the great Ozymandias...is scared.

With that, Cadillac looks away from Ozymandias just long enough to sign his name on the contract. Once that’s done, he picks up the clipboard and flings it to the champion’s side of the table. He then leans back in his chair, his hands clasped behind his head and that arrogant smirk still in place.

J.T. PRICE: Wooow...that is some serious confidence on the part of Cadillac Jackson. I love it!

TREY BOOKER: I’m not sure we’ve ever seen someone so full of themselves when it comes to facing The Butcher of Reine. It’s like Jackson is an entirely new man since winning Opportunity Knocks!

The champion looks at his upcoming opponent for a moment, then down at the contract in front of him, and finally back to Cadillac.

OZYMANDIAS: Before this moment...I didn’t even know your name.

That is all the champion has to say to wipe the grin from Cadillac’s face, turning it into one of shock. The surprise of the champion’s statement quickly wears off as the challenger rises to his feet and places both hands on the tabletop, his expression now turning to one of anger. Then, without a word of warning, Cadillac sends a hard right hand across the table to Ozymandias’ jaw, but the champion barely reacts! As the crowd gives a collective ‘ooooh’, The Butcher of Reine slowly rises from his chair and leans forward with both hands on its surface.

TREY BOOKER: Oh shit...here we go…

OZYMANDIAS: You are nothing more than a minor inconvenience to me, but if you insist on playing games, I suppose you’ll suffice until real competition comes along…

The champion then thrusts his body forward, cracking his head against the bridge of Cadillac Jackson’s nose! The sudden hit brings tears to Jackson’s eyes and sends blood running from both nostrils, as Ozymandias grabs him by the throat and drags him across the table. Before the challenger can respond, The Butcher lifts him into the air, high over his own head, and then brings him crashing down over his knee with The World Ender! The rarely seen move leaves the challenger writhing in pain on the mat, as Ozymandias glares down upon him with complete disdain. Then, he slowly picks up the pen and clipboard, presses his foot on top of Jackson, and signs the contract over his extended knee. With that complete, he simply drops the contract on top of his upcoming opponent and steps away from the table, making his way back to the side of a pleased Meredith Agnar. She gives Ozymandias a pleased nod as he joins her at ringside, hands him the Grand Championship from off her shoulder, and then leads him back onto the entrance ramp.

Back inside of the ring, Indy Darling rushes to the side of the fallen challenger, not only hoping that Cadillac has not suffered permanent damage, but also that his championship match for Night of Honor is not in jeopardy...


As the ring is cleared for tonight’s main event, we go backstage where a lone man kneels between two ambulance gurneys. It would appear that there is a body on each stretcher, but they have both been covered by a white sheet. As the camera pans around, we finally see that the kneeling man is Serrano Poblano…

SERRANO POBLANO: Mother...father...I have failed you. I’m sorry I wasn’t there to stop those evil men from causing you harm, but once funeral arrangements have been made and you’ve been laid to rest, I will swear upon your graves that I will never let something like this happen again. Finally...my purpose is clear. Proving Ground needs a protector...a spicy avenger...

A pair of EMTs enter the scene and begin loading the two gurneys into the back of an awaiting ambulance.

EMT #1: What kind of sick freak puts a sheet over these two? They’ve got concussions at the most…

EMT #2: Beats me. I stopped asking questions around this damn place.

As his mother and father are placed in the back of the ambulance, Serrano continues to kneel and bow his head, oblivious to the fact that his parents are alive and will eventually be back to normal with the proper medical attention.

SERRANO POBLANO: I will have my vengeance….I will have justice...so swears...Sgt. Pepper!

The chubby man forces himself to a standing position as he pulls a red hood over his face with two eye holes cut out of it. Slowly, he places his fists against his hips in the most heroic pose he can muster, and he looks off into the distance...



Returning to ringside, it comes as a surprise to see that not only are Trey and J.T. preparing to call the main event, but that they have been joined by Proving Ground GM, Indy Darling, and Fallout GM, Christian DeMarco. Thankfully, the two men are seated with Trey and J.T. between them, so any mounting tensions should not come to blows without great effort.

HOLLY PEREZ: Ladies and gentlemen...the following contest is our main event of the evening and it is scheduled for one fall!

Wire Rot' by Mega Drive begins to blare through the arena, its swirling and unrelenting synthesised timbre beckoning the entrance of The Kraken, Swindle Shelldrake. He bends down slightly as he emerges through the curtain into the roaming grid of neon lights that scan over the audience and himself, bathed in colours of bright pink, white and blue. A wry smirk plastered on his face underneath a black octopus tentacle mask, he throws a middle finger gesture from both hands to the camera in a taunting manner. Despite the serious presentation of himself, Shelldrake has a different level of enjoyment in his eyes. An enjoyment for the bout that lays ahead. His tall frame walks down the ramp towards the ring, hopping up to the apron and wiping his boots along it before stepping through the top and middle ropes. He remains hunched over, looking down to the mat and removing his octopus mask as the announcer reads through his details, correcting his posture up tall with an "up yours" "V" gesture to the hard camera and the crowd, pulling out his tongue and showing that devious smile.

HOLLY PEREZ: Introducing first...hailing from Cardiff, Wales and weighing in at one hundred ninety one pounds… he is “The Kraken”, “The Hybrid Hunter”, and “The Man With No Banner”...but tonight he fights on behalf of Proving Ground...SWINDLLLLLLE SHELLDRAAAAAAAKE!!!

The speakers let out the beginning synth beats of "Kingslayer" by Bring Me The Horizon and BABYMETAL erupts through the PA System as the lights shine a purple hue around the arena, the fans within the arena rain down with cheers with the lights shining down now with a purple hue and the one singular white spotlight continuing to shine down onto the entrance curtain. Soon, the entrance curtain pulls back, and out steps Jason Long- a smile on his face as he soaks in that crowd reaction, the Project: Honor Prime Championship resting on his shoulder. Jason looks out to the crowd, keeping that smile on his face as he stands at the top of the ramp with his arms stretched out wide, the championships in his hands, soaking in all of the cheers that rain down onto him. Flames shoot up each side of The King as raises his leg and slam his foot down to the metal floor, setting off the large explosion of pyrotechnics behind him and allowing the crowd to enjoy the view.

HOLLY PEREZ: And his opponent... wrestling out of Wexford Town, County Wexford, Ireland and weighing in tonight at one hundred and ninety-five pounds... HE IS THE EMPEROR OF PROJECT: HONOR… THE BEST BOUT MACHINE... THE PROJECT: HONOR PRIME CHAMPION...AND TONIGHT HE REPRESENTS THE FALLOUT BRAND... JAAAAASSSSSONNNNNNN LOOOOONNNNNNNGGGGGG!!!!

Jason makes his way down the ramp, hitting the hands of every fan that reach out to him, as he looks into the ring and sees his opponent- a smile growing on his face as he touches down at ringside and circles around the ring, sliding across the ring apron on his right knee before turning his body and looking out to the crowd. Jason stands up on the ring apron, leaning back against the ropes and keeping his right arm along the top rope as he points out to the crowd and hastily makes his way into the ring and into the closest corner to him where he leaps onto the second rope. Jason places his left foot on the top rope as he stretches his arms out once again with the championships in his hands, letting out a loud "YEAH!" to the crowd as he brings his arms down, placing the championship down onto the ropes below and slips out of his black leather jacket, throwing it down to the ringside crew and climbing up to the top rope before doing a backflip down to the mat where he nails the perfect landing. Jason turns to face his opponent and then backs himself into the corner, waiting for the bell to ring.

DING! DING! DING!

TREY BOOKER: It’s been an interesting night with so many of Proving Ground’s normal stars refusing to work matches under the direction of Larry KaChow, and now it all comes down to this!

J.T. PRICE: Proving Ground versus Fallout! Let’s get it on!

INDY DARLING: Some people at this table may be underestimating Swindle Shelldrake tonight, but I selected him for Team Proving Ground for a reason. This guy has everything it takes to shock the world and beat Fallout’s golden boy here tonight.

CHRISTIAN DeMARCO: Don’t kid yourself, Darling. Jason Long is not only at the pinnacle of Fallout, he could very well be at the pinnacle of the entire company after Night of Honor.

Indy prepares to counter DeMarco’s claim, when he’s interrupted by the sound of I Prevail’s “Rise Above It”, the well-known theme song of the Fallout brand. Moments after the music begins, a series of spotlights begin to search through the crowd, eventually resting on five individuals as they make their way toward the ringside area. It doesn’t take long for everyone to realize that it’s the members of Christian DeMarco’s Team Fallout; Lazarus Arjen, Charon Seede, Mason Destruction, Switchblxde, and Ellie Quinn. Upon reaching the barricade, the five competitors enter the ringside area and take up a position on one side of the ring.

TREY BOOKER: What the hell is this? They have no reason to be at ringside!

J.T. PRICE: Looks like DeMarco is playing games with us, Trey. He knows KaChow has the book tonight and he’s taking full advantage of it…

CHRISTIAN DeMARCO: What can I say? When the cat’s away, the mice shall play. It’s not my fault he gave an incompetent moron an ounce of power...

INDY DARLING: Larry has plenty of faults, but at least he hasn’t tried to kill anyone...yet...

It looks as if Jason Long is as surprised as everyone else in attendance, but he cannot help but smile upon realizing that he has five of Fallout’s faithful watching his back. On the opposite side of the ring, Swindle Shelldrake seems to have a look of concern, until the sound of “This Is War” echoes over the loudspeakers. Mark Hunter makes his entrance alongside TJ Thompson and Ulf Hednir, much to the delight of the pro-Proving Ground crowd. The three men stand at the entrance for a moment, looking towards their Team Darling teammate in the ring. Then, just before they start to make their way toward the ring, a fourth figure emerges from backstage…

TREY BOOKER: Team Proving Ground is here to represent, even if they are outnumbered...wait...Arata Asakura is here as well!

INDY DARLING: Uh-oh...Indy learned to plan ahead. I guess two can play this game after all, Christian.

While it’s unlikely that The Gaijin Killer would join his teammates out of the kindness of his heart, the promise of a future Grand Championship opportunity seems to have stirred him to action. He begrudgingly joins Hunter, Hednir, and Thompson before all four men head down the entrance ramp. Upon reaching the ringside area, they take up their position on the opposite side of Team Fallout, and finally the match can begin in earnest.

Hoping to use the arrival of Team Proving Ground to his advantage, Jason Long rushes toward Swindle with a big kick to the head in mind, but Shelldrake side steps at the last moment and Jason’s foot is momentarily caught over the top turnbuckle. In response, Swindle hits a quick series of goading slaps to the back of Jason’s head, then backs up to the center of the ring and motions for The Prime Champion to bring it.

TREY BOOKER: Whoa! How about that?

J.T. PRICE: Pretty ballsy move by The Kraken to taunt one of Project: Honor’s top competitors!

INDY DARLING: Swindle Shelldrake is nothing if not confident!

CHRISTIAN DeMARCO: Overconfidence has led to the downfall of many…

With a nod of his head and a serious expression on his face, Jason carefully moves back toward the center of the ring toward his grinning opponent. After some brief hesitation to measure each other up, the two men lock up in the middle in a struggle for superiority. Jason expertly transitions the lock up into a hammerlock on Swindle, who responds with some back elbow jabs that Long is able to avoid. Shelldrake then reverses the hold to apply a hammerlock of his own, but Jason Long reaches back over his shoulder to grab Swindle by the head and pull him forward with a snap mare. Instead of going right back into another hold, Long sends an echoing kick to the small of Swindle’s back that draws some gasps from the crowd. Swindly turns back towards Jason as he’s getting to his feet, only to be met with a front facelock. Before Long can transition the hold into an impactful move, Shelldrake forces him backwards into the corner. The referee is there to call for the clean break, and at first it looks as if Shelldrake is going to abide by the request. He puts his hands up as he takes a step back, but then suddenly lashes out with an open handed slap across Jason’s face!

TREY BOOKER: Holy shit! The blatant disrespect shown by Swindle there!

For a second, Jason is stunned that an opponent would treat him in such a manner, but then he charges out of the corner to tackle Shelldrake and drive him to the canvas! Just like that, the game of hold and counter hold comes to an end as Jason sends a flurry of hard punches down against his opponent’s head! The Prime Champion’s advantage only lasts for a few moments before Swindle rolls on top of Jason to throw some hard punches of his own, cheered on by his Night of Honor teammates at ringside. Mere moments later and the exchange is reversed yet again, with Jason throwing the shots as the referee does his best to break up the brawl that’s unfolding. Finally, both men are convinced to get back on their feet, but as soon as that happens, Swindle jumps forward with a blatant eye poke to Jason Long! The referee tries to admonish Shelldrake for his actions, but his warnings are ignored as Swindle follows it up with a blatant eye rake as well! Momentarily blinded, Jason is at Swindle’s mercy as he lands several chops against the champion’s chest to back him against the ropes. He then whips him across the ring and on the rebound Swindle nails a bicycle knee strike to Jason’s jaw! He goes for a quick cover…

ONE!
TWO- KICKOUT!

As The Kraken attempts to press his advantage, several competitors who were previously watching backstage have made their way onto the entrance ramp for a closer look. From Fallout; Savannah Sunshine, Julius Fairweather, James Ranger, and Earl Boyde are all present, while Jay Crowley, Brandon Hendrix, John Blade, and Yung Sauce are there to watch on behalf of Proving Ground. Back inside the ring, Swindle hits a snap mare followed up by his PK signature kick! He goes for another pin attempt…

ONE!
TWO!
KICKOUT!

Jason Long proves that he still has a lot left to give in this match, but Swindle is determined to make his mark as he connects with some closed fist punches before dropping Long back down with a brainbuster! Instead of going for another pin attempt, Swindle lifts Jason up and drapes his legs over the top rope before hitting a Magic Killer neckbreaker! The champion is down and clearly in trouble, as Swindle takes a few steps back, measuring Jason for a shotgun dropkick! Long slowly pulls himself back up, but just before Swindle connects, he drops back down the canvas! Shelldrake soars over the top of Jason and through the ropes, landing at ringside precariously close to the members of Team Fallout!

Not wanting to give him a moment to catch his breath, Lazarus and Charon pull Swindle back up and force him under the bottom rope, drawing the ire of Team Proving Ground on the other side of the ring. As they start to make their way closer toward the members of Team Fallout, they yell shouts of warning and it’s clear that tensions are growing higher by the moment. Meanwhile, Jason takes advantage of the opportunity he’s been given by running forward to drive Swindle’s face into the mat with a curb stomp! He then pulls Shelldrake back to his feet, measuring him for a fast combination of blows that includes a palm strike, back elbows, and finally a spinning back kick!

Seeing Jason finally let loose with some offense has Savannah Sunshine overly excited on the entrance stage, but her celebratory actions seem to draw the attention of Jay Crowley, who approaches her menacingly. In turn, Julius Fairweather steps between his fellow Fallout roster member and Swindle’s tag partner, threatening to unload a Royale With Cheese. Seeing him outnumbered, Brandon Hendrix comes to Crowley’s side with his eyes staring a hole through the bad motherfucker. Back inside of the ring, Jason successfully hits The Kingmaker to the delight of the crowd, as Swindle crumples to the mat in a heap! He quickly jumps on top for the cover…

ONE!
TWO!
THR - KICKOUT!

Not deterred by his opponent’s stubbornness, Jason backs up and signals for The Vanity Killer, hoping to put Shelldrake out once and for all. He charges forward to nail the punt kick, but Shelldrake leans back to avoid it and snags Jason’s foot with both hands! He twists the Prime Champion down to the mat and keeps hold of the foot to lock on an Indian Deathlock! Jason Long is locked in the hold, bringing a round of cheers from Swindle’s supporters at ringside, but they are too close to the ropes and the hold is almost immediately broken! TJ Thompson finds himself overly excited in the moment, and jumps onto the apron to dispute the referee’s call. While his argument does little to sway the official, it does give Swindle the opportunity to hit Jason with a low blow as he gets back to his feet! He then pulls Jason toward the middle of the ring and hits a perfect Michinoku Driver! The referee finally stops arguing with TJ long enough to see the pin attempt that follows and he leaps down for the count!

ONE!
TWO!
THR - KICKOUT!

Now it is Mason Destruction who leaps onto the apron, visibly upset that the referee missed the blatant low blow. As the official tries to convince The Backyardigan to get back on the floor, Swindle hits a stunned Jason Long with The Xanadu Clutch! After driving the Prime Champion’s head directly into the mat with amazing force, Swindle hooks the leg for a cover!

ONE...TWO...THREE...FOUR...FIVE….

The referee continues to argue with Mason Destruction as the seconds tick by, and realizing that his opportunity has been ruined, Swindle leaps back to his feet and marches toward the ropes. He shoves Mason from the apron and begins to curse at the members of Team Fallout, who don’t take kindly to seeing Swindle put his hands on one of their own. Arjen and Seede leap onto the apron, and that’s enough to finally bring the members of Team Proving Ground all the way to Fallout’s side of the ring. Mark Hunter charges into Switchblxde with a stiff forearm! Ellie Quinn meets TJ Thompson with a low kick! Arata Asakura exchanges blows with Mason Destruction! Ulf Hednir pulls Lazarus down from the apron before hitting him with an axhandle!

As if the chaos at ringside were not enough, the observers on the entrance stage clearly do not want to be left out. Julius finally unloads that Royale With Cheese at Earl Boyde...Brandon Hendrix levels Savannah with his Acknowledge spear...while Yung Sauce and John Blade double team James Ranger. The referee has not only lost control of what’s going on inside the ring, but at ringside and in the entrance as well. The official is not the only one distracted as Swindle sends Charon off the apron with a stiff right hand! He then turns back to refocus on Jason, but he’s doubled over by a sudden kick to the gut!

TREY BOOKER: Thronebreaker! Thronebreaker by Jason Long!

J.T. PRICE: Holy shit! That’s gotta be it!

Then the lights go out.

INDY DARLING: Son of a...

The crowd roars in anticipation despite the fact that they have no idea what’s coming next, and moments later, when the lights come back on, they are almost stunned into silence when they see Project: Honor’s Legacy Champion, Elena DeDraca in the ring. Before Jason is even aware that she’s present, Elena charges forward...and drives her foot against the back of Swindle’s head as he attempts to push himself up!

J.T. PRICE: Flight of the Raven! Elena just nailed Swindle with Flight of the Raven!

INDY DARLING: ….bitch.

Stunned by her appearance and confused as to why she didn’t attack him when his back was turned, Jason watches as Elena moves towards the ropes, only pausing her exit to give him a sly wink. Deciding to sort out her reasoning later, he takes full advantage of the opportunity in front of him as he covers Swindle and shouts at the official…

ONE!
TWO!
THREE!

DING! DING! DING!

While Jason has successfully won the match, he doesn’t have time to celebrate as Jay Crowley hits the ring and levels him with The Atonement! Julius charges the ring to come to Jason’s aid against the member of Jormangandr who’s still standing, but he’s barely made it between the ropes before the fight at ringside spills inside of the ring as well. It would appear as if only Elena DeDraca has escaped the carnage as she makes her way through the crowd, occasionally looking back at the chaos with a satisfied smile.

TREY BOOKER: This thing has gotten out of control! Screw security...we’re going to need a riot squad to break up this brawl!

J.T. Price begins to add his own two cents, when a steel chair comes flying out of nowhere to knock the headset off of his face.

INDY DARLING: Larry...Larry if you can hear me back there, get security off their asses!

CHRISTIAN DeMARCO: ...glorious.

From the ring, to ringside, to the entrance, the brawl continues to spiral out of control. Yet these are not the only areas experiencing a complete and total meltdown. As one of the cameras takes us behind the curtains, we see that the brawl has ignited fights throughout the backstage area. We see Syndicate battering Ace Sky with a metal trash can...Scott Oasis choking out Latoya Hixx with an electrical cable...Slade Castle throwing Percival Burque through the glass of an office window...and Lance Williams smacking Pyro with a fire extinguisher. In the midst of it all, on his knees and sporting an expression of pure hopelessness...is Larry KaChow. His trembling lips and watery eyes are the last things we see as Proving Ground goes off the air...