PROVING GROUND XXIII: OH LOOK, SINGLES MATCHES RESULTS

Before the match could begin, it was announced that the winner would meet Earl Boyde on the next Proving Ground for a shot at the Gatekeeper Championship! With that kind of motivation, Big Match John started off the contest like a hurricane, battering the Sultan of Spice with hard clotheslines and slams. It looked as if it would be an easy win for Blade during these opening minutes, but a well-placed handful of ground peppers to the eyes managed to turn things to Serrano’s favor. After blinding Blade, Poblano went to work with some offense of his own, eventually leading to him hitting his Holy Moly Stromboli from the top rope! Miraculously, it looked as if Serrano would score the win, but instead of going for an immediate pin, he chose to dance over Blade’s fallen body, even going so far as to teabag Big Match John! The sudden surprise of having Serrano’s spicy balls in his face acted like smelling salts for Big Match John, who countered the spicy teabagging with a ferocious bite! Holding his junk in pain, Serrano was left wide open as Blade got back to his feet and proceeded to hit his five moves of doom! Then, as Blade was attempting to finish Serrano off with an Attitude Adjustment, the Sultan of Spice suddenly turned it into a crucifix pinning combination for a count of three!

WINNER AND NEXT GATEKEEPER CONTENDER: SERRANO POBLANO BY PINFALL



With both superstars making their Project: Honor Debut, both DIANA and KAYLA were looking to make a memorable impact. Despite the similarity of both young competitors going by their first names alone, we quickly saw their differences in style as the match got underway. The bubbly and happy DIANA went to work with a series of basic moves, but as she took time to soak in the appreciation of the crowd, DIANA left herself wide open for KAYLA to hit some key offense of their own. The edgier of the two competitors used a variety of kicks and a stiff DDT to put DIANA down, but a missed attempt at KAYLA’s Gale Force top rope elbow once again turned the tide in DIANA’s favor. Looking to hit a high risk move of her own, DIANA went to the top for her Energy Splash, but KAYLA was able to recover and meet DIANA on the top rope. From there, both competitors took a nasty tumble off the top to the ringside floor where the official had no choice but to begin counting them out. Despite support from Dante and Francis, DIANA found herself unable to recover in time while KAYLA managed to slip back into the ring at the last moment.

WINNER: KAYLA BY COUNT OUT



With a new season officially underway, Proving Ground kicks off with not only a new video montage of its top superstars, but new theme music to accompany the video as well.

♫ To be more than a conqueror
You have to learn to enjoy the pain
If you want to survive the game ♫

With Skillet’s “Surviving The Game” playing in the background, the video intro begins with former Grand Champion, Mark Hunter, as he hits his Mercy Killer on an overmatched opponent. That is soon followed by the Sultan of Spice, Serrano Poblano, as he wiggles his body in the center of the ring and slaps his ass cheeks in preparation for a stink face. We then get a shot of Scott Oasis, surrounded by his entourage as he flexes on the entrance stage.

♫ You can try to defeat me (Defeat me)
You don't know it's the pain that'll feed me (Feed me)
And I'm gonna take back what you took before (Before)
'Cause I was born for this
All the bones that you're breakin' (Breakin')
You pretend that you're the one that can save me (Save me)
Now I'm takin' it back, it was never yours (Never yours)
I'm fightin' ♫

Lil’ Petey is shown cradling his newly won Warrior Rising Championship with a look of disbelief on his face, before we get a shot of Brandon Hendrix hitting his Acknowledge spear. This section of the video wraps up with an image of Caden Young in all of his fabulous glory.

♫ Fightin' for my focus
Give the pain a purpose
Light the fire inside
Feel it come alive (Come alive)
Show 'em what I'm made of
Victory's for the brave ones
Who never bow the knee
When it's do or die (Do or die-ie-ie)
One more time ♫

The Essence of Egotism lets out a primal roar before leaping onto the ring apron, and following this shot of Lance Williams we see John Blade waving his hand in front of his face before turning completely invisible. Tara Fenix is the next to be highlighted, as we see the Phoenix Queen executing her Phoenix Lock.

♫ Survivin' the game
I can be unstoppable
Gonna walk through Hell
Gonna shake the walls
Survive, survivin' the game (Survivin' the game)
Livin' the impossible
I'm the champion, indestructible (Survive)
Survive, 'cause I'm survivin' the game ♫

Kyle Valentine and DJ Hunter take over the screen next, with these members of The Phantom Troupe hitting Gran Rey Cero with perfect accuracy. After that shot of in-ring action, we then see Arata Asakura decked out in one of his many expensive suits, glaring at the camera.

♫ I can be unstoppable
Gonna be indestructible
I can be unstoppable
Gonna be indestructible ♫

The smug smile of Larry KaChow appears, soon to be followed by the eccentric Percival Burque as he throws one of his pocket rats at an unsuspecting opponent. From those unlikely images, we go to a shot of MYOJIN with The X-Factor Championship before The Shining Star is seen hitting their Falling From Heaven EX.

♫ All the liars around me
Like the wolves of the walls that surround me
In the face of the fear, I keep standin' tall
'Cause I will conquer this
Knock me down like a lion (Lion)
I was born to be demon defiant (Defiant)
And I won't ever let this kingdom fall (Fall)
I'll show 'em ♫

Cadillac Jackson smiles for the camera before sliding his sunglasses down to the tip of his nose, immediately followed up by KAYLA executing their Kraken Slayer. Then comes the disturbing sight of a smiling Casanova English, moments before he connects with the Silence of the Lamb.

♫ Show 'em what you're made of
Victory's for the brave ones
Never bow the knee
'Cause it's do or die (Do or die-ie-ie)
One more time ♫

Malachite Minj licks the back of his hand before brushing a few strands of hair away from his face, which then transitions to TJ Thompson executing Hip with the Drip. Then comes the mysterious masked man known only as Quid, who is shown hitting Quid’s Rights.

♫ Survivin' the game
I can be unstoppable
Gonna walk through Hell
Gonna shake the walls
Survive, survivin' the game (Survivin' the game)
Livin' the impossible
I'm the champion, indestructible (Survive)
Survive, 'cause I'm survivin' the game (Game) ♫

With Francis in hand, DIANA gives a happy smile to the camera before the scene switches to the much different visual of Jormungandr. Swindle Shelldrake and Jay Crowley are nothing less than impressive as they hit the Deep Sea Damnation.

♫ I am more than a conqueror
The past behind me, life is ahead
I'll take the way of the warrior
I walk alone, no fear to the death
One more time ♫

As the intro draws nearer to its conclusion, General Manager Indy Darling gives the camera a thumbs up, before we then see The Platinum Standard in motion. Following Emmanuelle’s Palisades Bomber, we get a shot of the newest member of Proving Ground, Skylar Ramsay, giving a smirk during her entrance.

♫ Survivin' the game
I can be unstoppable
Gonna walk through Hell
Gonna shake the walls
Survive, survivin' the game (Survivin' the game)
Livin' the impossible
I'm the champion, indestructible (Survive)
Survive, 'cause I'm survivin' the game (Survive)
Survivin' the game (Survive)
Survivin' the game
Livin' the impossible
I'm the champion, indestructible (Survive)
Survive, 'cause I'm survivin' the game (Survive) ♫

Finally, the Proving Ground logo emerges on the screen with the reigning Grand Champion, Ozymandias, rising above it with arms outstretched, like a leviathan rising from the darkest depths of the ocean.

♫ I can be unstoppable
Gonna be indestructible
I can be unstoppable
Gonna be indestructible ♫



The opening music begins to fade as the live audience at Wrigley Field comes alive for Proving Ground’s first episode of Season Three! The cameras scan around the field as pyrotechnics erupt from the entrance stage, ramp, ring posts, and the stadium’s upper deck, as we see the crowd and some of their homemade signs in all their glory.

“TARA WILL RISE FROM MARK’S ASHES”
“CASANOVA CREEPS ME OUT”
“RATS, RABBITS, AND GIRAFFES, OH MY”
“OZY GETS ME WET”
“INDY FEARS ARIK”

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: Good evening ladies and gentlemen! Welcome to the first episode of the new season...welcome to Proving Ground! What a loaded show we have for all of our fans here tonight!

J.T. PRICE: It’s going to be a big night, Trey! We’ve got tons of exciting matches and…

Suddenly, J.T. is cut off as entrance music begins to play for the night’s opening contest, emphasizing Trey’s point that the card is stacked from top to bottom...



HOLLY PEREZ: The following match is scheduled for one fall, already in the ring, from Parts Unknown… QUID!!!

With the lights going out within the arena, a set of laser lights shoot down onto the stage and strobe along to the beat of ‘Hydrochloride’, and one singular spotlight shines down onto a hooded figure as the opening lyrics are heard throughout the arena.

♫ YOU'VE TAKEN ALL MY PAIN AWAY
AND GAVE ME SHINY CHAINS
YOU'VE TAKEN ALL MY DOUBTS AWAY
REPLACED IT WITH THIS SHAME
YOU TOOK AWAY ALL MY PROBLEMS
YEAH, YOU BET
AND THEN YOU GAVE ME A BRAND NEW SET ♫

The figure soon lifts her hood past her head and shows the facial features that belong to Skylar Ramsey -- looking around the arena with a slight smirk to her face -- as she soon begins her long walk to the ring.

HOLLY PEREZ: And his opponent… currently residing in New York City, New York… SKYLAR RAMSEY!!!

♫ I THOUGHT I WOULD RIDE THE HIGH SO HIGH UNTIL I CAN'T BE REACHED
BY GRAVITY
YOU WON'T CATCH ME
WON'T CATCH ME
EVERYONE EXCEPT ME ♫

As she soon makes her way around the ring, Skylar slides right under the bottom ropes and brings herself up to one knee, sliding off her ring jacket before leaping back up to her feet and charging into the corner -- where Skylar leaps onto the second rope and looks out to the crowd with that sly grin to her expression.

The ref calls for the bell...

DING! DING! DING!

TREY BOOKER: Really not sure what to expect in this one.

J.T. PRICE: I’m expecting a Skylar Ramsey win, in fact I’m so sure of it, I’ll sit through a whole Fallout show if it doesn’t happen.

The two wrestlers stare down each other. Quid goes for the first shot but Skylar blocks it and starts off with countless right and left strikes therefore stunning Quid very quickly. As Quid struggles to work out where and who he is, Skylar runs the ropes and on the way back hits a clothesline. Quid still doesn’t drop.

TREY BOOKER: Quick start from the well traveled Skylar Ramsey.

J.T. PRICE: Quid still ain't down though.

Quid ducks a swinging right arm and rises with a swift headbutt straight to the jaw of Ramsey, Skylar obviously rocked by the impact, falls to the mat then rolls to the outside for safety and to create distance.

J.T. PRICE: Sensible from Skylar there.

TREY BOOKER: Yeah but look…

Quid has bounced of the far ropes and meets a turning Skylar with a suicide dive, Skylar is down but Quid landed on his feet more by luck than judgement. Quid wastes no time and rolls Skylar Ramsey back in under the bottom rope, Quid rolls in after just as Skylar is beginning to sit up. Quid uses this opportunity to hit a running back elbow to the spine of Skylar. Again Quid gives Skylar no room to breath and follows up with a pretty brutal kick to the gut.

J.T. PRICE: I didn’t know Quid was this good.

TREY BOOKER: Everybody in this company can go in the ring now; the days of making up the roster with people that embarrass themselves and our fine company are long gone.

J.T. PRICE: Crikey mate… you said it.

Quid lifts Skylar by the head going for a DDT, Skylar though switches the momentum and takes Quid over with a picture perfect looking northern lights suplex… Sylar holds the bridge…

ONE!
TWO!
T… QUID GETS THE SHOULDER UP!

TREY BOOKER: The fans of Project Honor are gonna see a lot more moves like that from the great technician that is Skylar Ramsay.

J.T. PRICE: Skylar has travelled the world learning many facets of our great sport.

Both wrestlers make their way up, but it’s Skylar still with the upper hand as she elbow Quid in the midsection. A now doubled over Quid is grabbed and taken down with a brutal looking fisherman DDT… Skylar covers again…

ONE!
TWO!
THRE… NO… KICK OUT BY QUID!

Ramsey is up first and seems to enjoy taking a moment to breath before sending the now vertical Quid into the ropes, Skylar nails her returning opponent with a great high angled dropkick.

TREY BOOKER: Stunning move.

Skylar follows up with a couple of swift kicks to the spine, she runs the ropes and hits Quid with a low dropkick to the back. With her opponent down in pain Skylar climbs the nearest turnbuckle and lines him up, without much pause she takes off for a double foot stomp, Quid rolls away from the drop zone meaning Skylar misses.

J.T. PRICE: Both down!!

Quid grabs the foot of Skylar and locks in an ankle lock, Skylar is literally stranded in the middle of the ring…

TREY BOOKER: And just like that Quid is in control, Skylar is in trouble.

Skylar is struggling to reach the ropes and getting nowhere, after fighting for a while and not achieving anything she tries shifting her weight, this works and she actually ends up with Quid’s shoulders on the mat in a small package…

ONE!
TWO!
THRE… KICK OUT BY QUID!

TREY BOOKER: This is a great match.

Both slowly get to their feet, as Skylar is shaking her ankle she is caught by a charging Quid, he jumps up and wraps both arms into a crucifix style slam and pin…

ONE!
T… EMPHATIC KICK OUT!!

As Quid tries getting up he is grabbed by Skylar, after a slight struggle she hooks the arms and rolls into a second small package. The ref checks the shoulders and starts counting…

ONE!
TWO!
THREE!!!

DING! DING! DING!

The ref rushes over to speak to Holly Perez before she makes an announcement.

TREY BOOKER: Who won?

J.T. PRICE: Surely both had their shoulders down!!

TREY BOOKER: I guess we’re about to find out.

Both wrestlers are now up and look confused.

HOLLY PEREZ: Due to both competitors having their shoulders pinned for the count of three… the referee has declared this match a draw!!!

J.T. PRICE: Oh man, that sucks, great showing by both tough.

TREY BOOKER: Much like the close dark match between KAYLA and DIANA, I wouldn’t be surprised to see a rematch out of Skylar and Quid to determine a real winner!


Following the first televised match, we go to a commercial break and see the members of Big Drip furiously tapping away at their mobile phones.

TJ THOMPSON: I can’t believe I signed that contract…

LIL’ PETEY: You owe us big time, dawg…

TJ THOMPSON: I know, I know. Just keep leveling for a few more hours…

YUNG SAUCE: I can’t believe I had to give up my in-ring career because someone agreed that I’d play this for a hundred and fifty hours a week. I’ve slept 8 hours in seven days…

TJ THOMPSON: That’s more than we let your mom get…

LIL’ PETEY: Savage!

TJ THOMPSON: Speaking of savage, download Raid: Shadow Legends today with the promo code DRIP to get your free Savage Drip Lord. My life literally depends on it...




HOLLY PEREZ: Introducing first, already in the ring from Tokyo, Japan… “The Prince of Pretty”...MONSIEUR MALACHITE MINJ!!!

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 introducing the opponent...hailing from the sewers below our very feet… “Wrestling Supreme”...PERCIVAL RATMAN BURQUE!!!

TREY BOOKER: Talk about a clash of styles and personalities...we’ve got a rat lover from the sewers against a very catlike and fashionable opponent. Only on Proving Ground, folks!

J.T. PRICE: I’m not sure you should be so proud of it, Trey...

DING! DING! DING!

Monsieur Minj begins to move forward to start the match, when Percival digs into his pockets and produces one of his pet rats! He hurls the rodent at Minj, who swats it to the mat with impeccable accuracy! Willing to play along with Percival’s silliness, Minj then drops to canvas on all fours, their focus entirely on the rat as it nervously runs back and forth in search of an escape route. Minj pounces back and forth, swatting at the rodent with his paws...er...hands, while Percival watches the scene unfold from his corner.

Finally, with Minj completely engrossed in chasing the rat, Percival runs forward and leaps onto his opponent, rolling them onto the mat with a sudden Oklahoma Roll!

ONE!
TWO!
THREE!

DING! DING! DING!

HOLLY PEREZ: Your winner of the match by way of pinfall...PERCIVAL RATMAN BURQUE!!!

TREY BOOKER: You have got to be kidding me!

J.T. PRICE: What?! It’s over already?

Burque quickly gets back on his feet and starts to hop up and down, clearly overjoyed that he has scored such a quick and unexpected pinfall. Minj, on the other hand, is completely dismayed by the fact that they have been fooled in such a childish manner. No longer in the mood for fun and games, Minj scoops the frightened rat into his hand and gets back onto his feet. He then holds it towards his mouth, as if he’s going to bite the rat’s head off!

Percival is immediately horrified by what’s taking place and rushes forward, right into a series of stiff kicks from Minj! Then, with the rat still in his hand, Minj begins to strike at Percival with various chops and slaps, stunning the confused Ratman! Percy is finally driven to his knees by the flurry, which gives Minj the opportunity to land a vicious Hint of Minj corkscrew roundhouse kick! It looks as if Burque is completely knocked out, but the Prince of Pretty isn’t done avenging his loss yet, as he makes his way to the top turnbuckle. Minj then leaps off backwards and plants both feet into Burque’s chest with a successful execution of the Mewnsault!

With the rat still in his hand, Minj looks down at Percival as he clutches his ribs, and shaking his head back and forth out of disgust, The Prince of Pretty finally drops the rat on top of its master’s prone body. Monsieur Minj then licks the back of his hands and straightens out his hair, before leaving the sewer-dwelling superstar to suffer as a result of his quick victory.

TREY BOOKER: Percival may have gotten the quick win here, but despite the opening bit of comedy, it’s clear that Minj is more than capable of making things serious!

J.T. PRICE: Something tells me we haven’t seen the last of the rat and cat, Trey. I don’t know whether to be happy about that or concerned about what the future may hold...


TJ THOMPSON: Did I mention that Raid: Shadow Legends is free to download? If not, I really should have. Pretty sure it’s in the contract. So yeah, it’s free. Please download it today. Please.





HOLLY PEREZ: Ladies and gentlemen, at this time will you please welcome the internationally renowned investigative reporter and potentially the next Assistant General Manager of Proving Ground...Monsieur Larry KaChow!

As “The Man” by the Killers plays over the sound system at Wrigley Field, Larry KaChow makes his entrance with an arrogant smile plastered on his face. Over the past several months, it has been customary for KaChow to receive a chorus of hateful jeers from the crowd, yet with his war against Caden Young on the horizon, there are some within the audience who actually cheer Larry’s entrance. He seems somewhat confused by this mixed reaction as he enters the ring and picks up his microphone, looking out at the fans with an untrusting expression.

LARRY KACHOW: I see how it is with you people. You’ve finally realized that I’m about to scale the corporate ladder and now you’ve decided to suck up. It’s about damn time!

The boos still outweigh the cheers, but Larry does his best to ignore the crowd response as he focuses on announcing his guest for the evening.

LARRY KACHOW: Enough about you people for now. We have more important things to discuss, namely, the man who I have selected to represent me in the battle for Assistant General Manager! I’m talking about a man who has risen through the ranks of Proving Ground to emerge as one of the elite competitors within the hallowed halls of Project: Honor! A man who was able to reach out and grab the brass ring when opportunity knocked at his door! A man who many say is the uncrowned Grand Champion of Proving Ground! The man who stole the show at Night of Honor and had everyone in the Tokyo Dome chanting his name! He is an idol among men and desired by all of the women...he is the one and only Luxury Experience...he is my champion...CADILLAC JACKSON!!!


"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, still favoring his back and limping from his war with Ozy, but still finding time point and wave 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 stares out at the fans within Wrigley Field, looking upon them with a bright smile.

As his entrance music begins to die down, Cadillac leaps back down from the turnbuckles and makes his way toward the center of the ring, where Larry KaChow is applauding with an overabundance of enthusiasm. As the crowd settles down and Jackson stands beside him, KaChow continues to clap his hands, completely overdoing it in showing his appreciation. Finally, Larry decides to stop clapping, but a huge smile remains plastered on his face. He shakes his head back and forth in amazement and awe as he raises the microphone back to his lips.

LARRY KACHOW: You are truly a god among men, Mr. Jackson! When Rock Johnson proposed this little contest between Caden Young and myself, I knew there was only one man capable of representing the greatness that is Larry KaChow. That man had to be even greater in star-quality and stature, something only Cadillac Jackson is capable of! While I am honored and humbled that you’ve accepted my offer, please enlighten all of these people as to why you agreed to represent me against Caden Young.

Larry moves the microphone towards Cadillac, who continues to smile as he looks out at the crowd.

CADILLAC JACKSON: Well Mr. Larry, allow me to start by saying that the honor is all mine. I'm not going to beat around the bush here, but the fact of the matter is no matter what anyone says, you are the only one who was smart enough to see how big of a star Cadillac Jackson is. That idiot, who's name I forget, that was running this ship into the ground when I first joined forgot I even existed - he barely could find a place on the card for me. Then Indy Darlington took over, and while he's been able to stop the ship from completely crashing, he certainly hadn't stopped the flooding because he treated me as just an average person. I was placed in baffling tag matches and worthless multi-person matches - again, I was just another guy on the roster. But when Mr. Larry had his chance? What did he do? He gave Cadillac Jackson the opening he needed… the OPPORTUNITY to prove how good he really is. And I know I fell short to Ozy at Night of Honor, but I proved to the world that I am the indisputable future of this company. So why would I join Mr. Larry? Because I want to prove it again - and also return the favor to the man who gave me my opportunity.

With an agreeable nod of his head, Larry pulls the microphone back.

LARRY KACHOW: I couldn’t be happier that a man of your star quality took advantage of Lucky Larry’s Lethal Limbo, but as delighted as I am to have such a star of your caliber representing me, rumor has it that Caden Young has chosen his champion as well. From what my sources are telling me, that Hollywood wannabe will be represented by none other than an equally disgusting gloryhound who goes by the name of...MYOJIN! Please, Mr. Jackson, tell all of these people what you think of MYOJIN and why you will prove to be better than him in every conceivable way!

Larry again holds the microphone for Caddy as he responds to the question.

CADILLAC JACKSON: I'll be straight up, I think MYOJIN is a fantastic wrestler. They're quick, they're technical, they've got the look, and I like that they shut up Lance Williams for at least for 30 seconds. And I know MYOJIN has been able to beat me in the past - but this is the new and improved Cadillac Jackson baybee. At the end of the day, MYOJIN is an enigma, they're unpredictable, and people get lost in that mysticism and allow MYOJIN to get inside their heads. Well MYOJIN, I got news for ya. With the guidance of Mr. Larry and knowing how much this opportunity truly means? You're not facing beaten down, roster filler Cadillac Jackson. You're getting the real deal. You're getting the whole shabang. You're getting the Luxury Experience - and Mr. Big Time Wins is coming back to play.

LARRY KACHOW: You clearly have more respect for that cheapshot artist than me, but that’s just one of the things that makes you stand head and shoulders above MYOJIN! Now Rock Johnson has tasked Indy Darling with pitting you and the so-called ‘Shining Star’ against each other in various competitions over the next few weeks, eventually culminating in an X-Factor Championship match at Clash For the Cup. We both know that MYOJIN doesn’t stand a chance, especially with Caden Young as his coach, but before we wrap things up, can you give us all a little hint regarding your strategy as you lower yourself to compete against a walking elementary art project like MYOJIN?

Cadillac raises his eyebrow looking at the microphone, then Larry, then back to the microphone with a smirk.

CADILLAC JACKSON: You see? This is why you're the best, Mr. Larry - because you want to highlight just how stupid Caden and MYOJIN truly are. Of course I'm not going to give out my strategy! You're hilarious! All Caden needs to know is they better start packing their bags now - and MYOJIN? Get that belt shined up real nice, cleaned up real good, and get some chapstick. 'Cuz you'll be kissing that baby goodbye real, real soon.

LARRY KACHOW: There you have it! Now show some appreciation once again for the man who will land me the job of Assistant General Manager and your next X-Factor Champion...CADILLAC JACKSON!!!

The crowd once again responds with a mixed reaction as Cadillac heads back to the turnbuckles and raises his arms into the air. After soaking in the response for a few moments, he rejoins Larry, and together the two men begin to leave the ring.

TREY BOOKER: There you have it! Larry KaChow has officially chosen Cadillac Jackson to represent him in the battle for Assistant General Manager, and I have to admit, that is one hell of a choice!

J.T. PRICE: And if what Larry said is true, we can look forward to Cadillac competing against MYOJIN in one form or another over the next few weeks. We’re talking about two legit stars that could main event any arena in the world!

TREY BOOKER: I don’t know what kind of coaching Larry KaChow and Caden Young will be able to provide, but I’m definitely looking forward to the eventual showdown between Cadillac Jackson and MYOJIN!



HOLLY PEREZ: The following match is scheduled for one fall… Already in the ring to my left… Standing at six foot, six inches tall… Weighing in at two hundred and thirty seven 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. The music is replaced by "Cash Flow" by Ace Hood ft T-Pain/Rick Ross.

HOLLY PEREZ: And his opponent, currently standing in the corner to my right, from Pacific Palisades, California...she is the former Warrior Rising Champion and “The Platinum Standard”...EMMANUELLE!!!

The music completely fades and Holly Perez leaves the ring, after a short pause the ref calls for the bell.

DING! DING! DING!

Emmanuelle and Brandon begin circling each other.

TREY BOOKER: Brandon has really stepped up lately, whereas Emmanuelle is in my opinion one of Proving Ground’s most underrated stars. This could be a really interesting one.

J.T. PRICE: I’d love to disagree with you but I don’t want to be wrong.

Emmanuelle breaks the circle first and runs at Brandon, she has to duck under a clothesline attempt before rebounding off the ropes, on the way back Hendrix is waiting and takes down the charging Emmanuelle with headlock takeover.

TREY BOOKER: Huge size and strength difference in this one, you have to believe Hendrix plans on using that.

After a slight struggle Emmanuelle manages to shift her weight slightly putting Brandon’s shoulders against the mat…

ONE!
T… TOO EARLY!

Hendrix simply reasserts control by shifting his weight back into the headlock, again Emmanuelle struggles and eventually forces enough breathing room that she is able to bridge out of the hold. She doesn’t waste a second and runs the ropes, using the momentum gained she nails a jumping knees strike to Hendrix. She glances down at her bigger opponent and jumps into a picture perfect standing moonsault, Emmanuelle hooks the leg on impact…

ONE!
TWO!
T… SOLID KICK OUT!!

TREY BOOKER: Emmanuelle knows she has to use her speed and relentless nature to get a result tonight.

J.T. PRICE: Stop being so damn logical, I don’t wanna keep agreeing with you.

As Brandon is getting to his feet The Platinum Standard is already climbing a turnbuckle, she waits for Hendrix and takes off with a diving crossbody, she’s however caught by Brandon who in a great show of strength doesn’t even rock backwards. Hendrix uses the position to send Emmanuelle overhead with a fallaway slam.

TREY BOOKER: That was impressive!

Brandon quickly grabs his smaller opponent and drags her up by the arms, he hooks her up and hits a butterfly suplex, Hendrix floats over into a pin…

ONE!
TWO!
TH… KICK OUT!

J.T. PRICE: I have no idea who’s taking this one.

Hendrix again wastes very little time, he picks up the struggling Emmanuelle and lifts her for Royalty, his version of a jackhammer. He has her practically vertical but takes too long, Emmanuelle swings back and nails a brutal spiked ddt. Both are down.

TREY BOOKER: Great reversal by the Californian native there.

J.T. PRICE: Not surprising that these two need a breather.

Both are down and the ref is counting…

ONE!
TWO!
THREE!
FOUR!
F… Emmanuelle uses the ropes but is up!

As he starts to move Emmanuelle puts some boots into Brandon, as he gets to a seated position Emmanuelle runs at him and hits a shining wizard, she makes the cover…

ONE!
TWO!
THR… STRONG KICK OUT!

Emmanuelle grabs at the head of her opponent and pulls at him to try for a ddt, Hendrix however uses his superior size and charges Emmy back first into the turnbuckle, he follows with a couple more shoulders to the gut.

TREY BOOKER: The younger and lesser experienced Hendrix again using his superior power.

Now feeling back in control Brandon lifts Emmanuelle up onto the top rope, despite his size Hendrix follows her up there. Emmanuelle tries to fight him off but Brandon overpowers her and sends them both back to the mat with a superplex, amazingly Hendrix doesn’t release his grip, he floats over and back to his feet in a fluid motion, he relifts Emmanuelle before driving her to the mat with a jackhammer.

J.T. PRICE: ROYALTY!!! And wow what a move!

TREY BOOKER: That’s it.

Brandon Hendrix has hooked the leg…

ONE!
TWO!
THREE… NO!! EMMANUELLE ACTUALLY POPS A SHOULDER UP!!

TREY BOOKER: What a kick out, I was convinced that was it.

A clearly frustrated looking Hendrix pulls Emmanuelle up and whips her into the ropes, on what can only be instinct, The Silver Starlet springs up onto the top rope, she moonsaults back over the head of Brandon Hendrix nailling a crazy backstabber on the way down.

J.T. PRICE: HOLY SHIT!!! I THINK BRANDON HENDRIX NEEDS A NEW SPINE!!!

Both wrestlers are down but Emmanuelle manages to drape an arm over Hendrix…

ONE!
TWO!
THREE!! NO!! SHOULDER UP!! BRANDON BROKE THE COUNT AT THE LAST MILLISECOND!!!

TREY BOOKER: Fucking hell!!

J.T. PRICE: Damn!

Without missing a beat Emmanuelle transitions into her STF variant with a sleeper, Brandon appears to have nowhere to go.

TREY BOOKER: PUNCH OUT TIME!!

J.T. PRICE: Brandon Hendrix is stuck.

The referee gets perfectly into position but Hendrix is adamantly waving his questions away, Brandon stretches for the ropes but is miles away and appears to be losing his fight against the hold.

TREY BOOKER: He has to tap out for his own good.

Still Hendrix stubbornly refuses to submit until eventually Emmanuelle screams at the referee “HE’S OUT!!”, instantly the ref calls for the bell and Emmanuelle breaks the hold.

DING! DING! DING!

The referee informs Holly Perez of the result.

HOLLY PEREZ: Due to Brandon Hendrix no longer being able to compete… THE WINNER VIA REFEREE STOPPAGE… EMMANUELLE!!!

The ref calls for medics as Emmanuelle respectfully steps away from the unconscious Brandon.

J.T. PRICE: Holy shit, Brandon Hendrix refused to quit right there.

TREY BOOKER: Even when he knew it was over, he chose to pass out rather than tap out.

Brandon is already moving again and uses the bottom rope to sit up slightly as Emmanuelle has her arm raised by the referee. With the match over, we catch a glimpse of Proving Ground’s GM standing in the shadows of the entrance stage. With no idea how long he has been watching, we can only assume that Indy Darling approves of what he’s seen as he nods his head before disappearing back through the curtains.


Once again going to a commercial, we find TJ Thompson now standing alone as he continues to fumble with his mobile device.

TJ THOMPSON: ….I hate this game…


As TJ continues to grind away on the mobile app, we hear the voice of Lil’ Petey call out to him from off camera.

LIL’ PETEY: Yo dawg! Put the phone away! You’re on next!

With a heavy sigh, TJ continues to look at the screen of his phone as he wanders out of the scene.



Nonstop by Drake hits as the fans rise to their feet, watching the curtain while cheering. T.J. Thompson marches out onto the ramp, pounding his chest while shouting at the crowd with contagious energy.

Chants of "HIP" are heard as he high fives fans on his way down to the ring. At the bottom of the ramp, Thompson singles out a fan, and begins shaking uncontrollably as he raises his hand up. The crowd plays along with it as if Thompson is charging up before giving a massive high five to the fan. The fan swings his arm back from the impact of the high five while Thompson fires up the crowd before sliding into the ring.

TJ briefly poses on the top turnbuckle as the crowd continues to cheer before waiting for his opponent with a huge grin on his face.

HOLLY PEREZ: The following contest is scheduled for one fall! Introducing first, representing the Hip House and weighing in at one hundred eighty pounds, he is “The Hipbeast”...TJ THOMPSON!!!

The lights go dim as the eerie voice of a former member of the notorious Manson Family rings through the arena.

"yeah, I remember her saying:
I'm already dead... I'm already dead... I'm already dead..."

The lights flicker revealing Casanova English on the stage as the voice continues.

"You're going to get up and scream. I'm already dead... I'm already dead... I'm already dead..."
“You're going to get up and- Burn an x in your head."

The lights turn back on as Casanova English takes a long drag off his already lit cigarette, his leather jacket hung loosely over his shoulders. He scowls at the crowd before Bash Daddy slowly walks from behind the curtains to join him - the towering man shirtless, wearing black jeans and a leather mask.

English and Bash Daddy look at one another and smirk before walking down the ramp slowly. English stops to blow smoke in the general direction of some fans. Bash Daddy walks over to the corner between the guard rails and the ring. English slowly struts up the steps onto the ring apron. He hangs his jacket on the turnbuckle before stepping through the second rope. English smirks, pulling the cigarette from his lips, he blows a cloud of smoke straight up into the air and tosses his coffin nail into the crowd. English laughs as people move trying to avoid the ember. Bash Daddy glares from the outside at Casanova's opponent.

HOLLY PEREZ: And his opponent, hailing from Ottawa, Ontario, Canada and weighing in at two hundred twenty pounds...he is the number one contender to the Warrior Rising Championship...CASANOVA ENGLISH!!!

TREY BOOKER: This is going to be an interesting one to say the least. On one side we have a Proving Ground staple in TJ Thompson, while on the other side is a relative newcomer to Project: Honor, Casanova English.

J.T. PRICE: Casanova may be new here, but he’s already secured a shot at the Warrior Rising Championship. With Lil’ Petey at ringside, things could deteriorate in a hurry.

DING! DING! DING!

As the crowd continue to chant “HIP” for the fan-favorite, TJ Thompson, the two men move to meet up in the center of the ring. As they go for a lock-up, Casanova suddenly strikes out with a thrust to the throat, stunning TJ and forcing him to gasp for air. English follows that up by driving some knees into TJ’s midsection and then takes him over with a suplex. Instead of going for a quick pin, Casanova then pounces on top of his fallen opponent and begins to rake at his eyes!

The referee convinces English to back off with a near five count, but before TJ can get to his feet, Casanova keeps him on the mat with several stiff elbows to the face. Already at an early disadvantage after having his throat and eyes targeted, TJ remains on the mat as English backs up to deliver a diving headbutt, a move he calls the Newfie Noggin Hug. He dives toward TJ by leading with his head, but Thompson is able to roll away at the last second and English strikes nothing but the hard mat.

With his breathing returning to normal and his vision clearing, TJ is quick to follow up with a step up enzuigiri and then he executes a Hip is a Construct headscissors DDT on the stunned English! Unlike the number one contender, TJ wastes no time in trying to end things early with a pinfall attempt!

ONE!
TWO!
KICKOUT!

Undeterred, TJ pulls Casanova to his feet for a pair of snap suplexes, and then lifts him up a third time into position for a powerbomb! TJ sprints across the ring with Casanova in his arms and then throws him into the turnbuckles! Following the buckle bomb, TJ plants a double stomp onto Casanova’s chest and goes for another lateral press!

ONE!
TWO!
KICKOUT!

TREY BOOKER: It’s clear that Casanova still has plenty left in the tank.

J.T. PRICE: Yeah but the Hipbeast is firing on all cylinders!

TJ takes a few steps back and begins to motion for his Hip with the Drip, getting the fans behind him once again. He then charges at Casanova as he’s getting to his feet, but English manages to dodge TJ’s running forearm and counter it into a backslide!

ONE!
TWO!
THR - KICKOUT!

The sudden counter nearly caught TJ off guard and sealed the victory for English, but it was just not meant to be. Both men are quick to get on their feet, but TJ is able to act first as he drops Casanova back to the mat with an impressive superkick! TJ then lines up for another attempt at his Hip with the Drip, but this time he is interrupted as Bash Daddy jumps onto the apron! TJ is forced to turn his attention to English’s manager, but before the two can come to blows, Lil’ Petey makes his own presence known, grabbing Bash Daddy by the legs and pulling him back to the floor. As tensions rise between the two men at ringside, Casanova has had a chance to recover and rushes at the distracted TJ with a spinning heel kick to the back of the head!

With the momentum swinging in his favor, Casanova quickly pulls TJ back to his feet before dropping him once again, this time with an inverted DDT! English then props TJ into a seated position and locks on a dragon sleeper, looking for the submission in the center of the ring! It looks as if TJ is trapped with nowhere to go, as the ropes are too far from his flailing hands. At ringside, Petey begins to slap his hands on the mat, successfully getting the crowd fully behind his partner. Thompson starts to feel the energy of the crowd and slowly fights his way back to his feet! He then turns in Casanova’s grip and flips backwards, counter the dragon sleeper with a Northern Lights Suplex!

ONE!
TWO!
KICKOUT!

Casanova is forced to let go of TJ in order to break the bridging pin attempt and both men begin to get back to their feet. English is quicker however, as he drops his leg across the back of TJ’s head with a sudden English Lesson fameouser!

ONE!
TWO!
KICKOUT!

TREY BOOKER: We saw the kind of resolve English has earlier, and now we’re seeing that same kind of tenacity out of TJ!

J.T. PRICE: Dude, English hasn’t stopped giving that creepy smile since the bell rang. That would be enough to get me to tap out.

TJ gets back up as Casanova chops away at him, but somehow the Hipbeast finds the strength to send back some chops of his own! As TJ starts to turn the tide in his favor, rocking Casanova with every blow, Bash Daddy once again leaps onto the apron. This time TJ remains focused on English but the referee has no choice but to turn his attention toward Casanova’s manager in an attempt to get him back on the floor. Meanwhile, TJ rocks Casanova with a big European Uppercut that knocks him out of the ring! English gets to his feet at ringside as TJ measures him for his follow up coffin drop, but it looks as if Petey has a plan of his own as he measures Casanova with the Warrior Rising Title!

Petey takes a big swing at his upcoming opponent as TJ dives out of the ring, and Casanova ducks! Petey accidentally slams his title belt against TJ’s head as he’s diving towards the floor, nearly knocking his head off in the process! Overcome with remorse and guilt, Petey drops his belt and immediately crouches down to check on his fallen partner. This gives English the chance to grab the title for himself and he smacks it across the back of Petey’s head, leaving him motionless at ringside!

Casanova then rolls TJ Thompson back into the ring, and we can see that the Hipbeast is bleeding from his forehead. Unconcerned with his opponent’s well being, Casanova connects with his Silence of the Lamb on a stunned and half-conscious Thompson, driving him to the canvas with his submission hold. Seeing his man in control, Bash Daddy finally drops back to the floor so that the referee can return his attention to the match. He immediately sees that TJ is bleeding and unresponsive, so he doesn’t hesitate in calling for the bell!

DING! DING! DING!

HOLLY PEREZ: The winner of the match by way of referee stoppage...CASANOVA ENGLISH!!!

TREY BOOKER: Casanova has taken advantage of Bash Daddy’s distraction and some ill-timed miscommunication between Petey and TJ to secure the victory!

J.T. PRICE: Yeah...but he’s still not releasing the hold!

Just as J.T. pointed out, Casanova continues to apply pressure with his Silence of the Lambs on the unconscious and helpless Thompson. The referee demands that Casanova release his hold, but the sadistic English seems to be caught up in his bloodlust and ignores the official’s warnings. Bash Daddy even enters the ring and laughs as he watches the scene unfolding. The referee does everything in his power to get Casanova to release the hold, even go so far as to pull at English’s arms, which only earns the official a hard shove from Bash Daddy. The cowardly official immediately rolls to ringside, and frustrated with his lack of control, begins to relay something to Holly Perez…

HOLLY PEREZ: Ladies and gentlemen, due to Casanova English’s refusal to release the hold, the referee has reversed his decision and awards this match by way of disqualification to...TJ THOMPSON!!!

If Casanova even hears this turn of events, he pays no attention to it as he continues to revel in Thompson’s plight like a crazed sadist. Back at ringside, Petey has finally recovered from being hit with his own belt, and he grabs the strap before sliding into the ring. With a wild swing, Petey sends Bash Daddy ducking for cover, and the champion then turns his attention towards English, driving the belt against his smiling face!

This is finally enough to make Casanova break the hold and he rolls to ringside where Bash Daddy is waiting for him. Instead of following them, Petey kneels down beside his fallen friend, greatly concerned about his physical condition...


Completely unaware of what’s happening in the ring or at ringside, we see Yung Sauce somewhere backstage, his eyes red from a lack of sleep as he stares at his phone like a zombie.

YUNG SAUCE: ...must...level...my Sorcerer…




Suddenly there is a low drum line that slides into a powerful southern bass guitar as the fans in the arena suddenly come up to their feet with cheers.

<Michael Wildside>
I want to tell you a story
about a place you don't wanna be.
This ain't no home sweet home,
it's a home sweet MIS-ery.

We knew when we got here
they'd try to put us away.
But when they seen us walk down
the street, they ran the other way!

HOLLY PEREZ: Introducing first, they represent the Urahara House Wrestling Office out of Roppongi, Tokyo, Japan and weigh in tonight at a combined rough, tough, and ready to rumble weight of four hundred and twenty pounds!!!

As Crossfyre's "Badstreet USA" continues to play, the badge of the Phantom Troupe appears on the video wall as the two main members of the Troupe step out onto the entrance way with Vergil Urahara standing in-between them looking like a proud father.

<Michael Wildside>
Badstreet, Atlanta, GA
Baddest street in the whole USA
Badstreet nasty and hot
The further down the block you went, the badder it got.

HOLLY PEREZ: Being escorted down to the ring by their franchise manager, Vergil Urahara, they are the team of the "Elegant Assassin" DJ Hunter and Kyle Valentine...

At that, the "Spitfire" himself then moves to the center of the entrance way and makes like he's targeting something with careful aim before he starts to make his way down to the ring while the taller and more passionate Kyle Valentine adjusts his wrist tape before he starts to head for the ring, following in his partner's path down to the ring as he grooves with the music.

<Michael Wildside>
Street is a jumping,
Tonight there'll be a brawl.
Old Lady McDuffie she done
give the cops a call.
She might as well call the Army or
the United States Marines,
'cause can't nobody handle this
Badstreet scene.

HOLLY PEREZ: They are the PHANTOM TROUPE!!!

Both men hit the ring at the same time and while DJ quickly swings himself up to the top rope to once again do his "aiming", Kyle on the other hand takes his time and enjoys the roars of the crowds as he moves to the center of the ring and starts to pace back and forth as he waits for the match to begin.

The lights in the arena fall dark for a moment before a serpent coated in dark purple and bright pink scales appears on the Honortron, circling round and round until it consumes its own tail as letters seem to emerge through a watery effect to read "JÖRMUNGADR". The spotlights of purple and pink hues turn to light up Crowley and Shelldrake respectively on the stage, both wearing their masks. Crowley walks down the ramp first, with the taller frame of Shelldrake right behind him. The DAMNED Heart steps up onto the apron and stands by the corner turnbuckle, Shelldrake moving through the ropes before standing on the middle rope behind his tag team partner and removing his mask, raising the 'up-yours' V gesture to the camera. Meanwhile Crowley pulls down his hood to reveal his own dark mask, ripping it off and outstretching his arms. Shelldrake places his kraken mask on the ring post as Crowley steps through the ropes and into the ring.

HOLLY PEREZ: And their opponents at a combined weight of four hundred fourteen pounds...they are The World Serpents, Jay Crowley and Swindle Shelldrake...JORMUNGANDR!!!

TREY BOOKER: I have to admit, I’m really looking forward to this one, J.T. The tag team scene has really come alive since Collision Course and these are two of the best on Proving Ground.

J.T. PRICE: Fire and Ice may be having issues with Massacre for the time being, but they’d better be thinking about these two teams in the back of their minds!

DING! DING! DING!

With Swindle and Hunter starting out for their respective teams, things start off quickly as Shelldrake sends DJ to the mat with a sudden armdrag. Hunter then pops back to his feet, returning the favor as he sends Swindle down with an armdrag of his own. They then move into a lock up, and Hunter takes Shelldrake over with a side headlock takedown. He doesn’t hold him on the mat for long, as Swindle kips back up to his feet, slaps on his own headlock, and then flips DJ to the canvas. This time it is Hunter who kips up to his feet before both men look to put each other down with a dropkick. The simultaneous moves miss their target, and we end up with Swindle Shelldrake and DJ Hunter staring daggers at each other while both kneel on the mat.

Once again the two men lock up, but this time the stalemate is broken as Swindle pushes Hunter back towards his corner. Shelldrake then backs away as the referee orders, but that’s when Crowley brings a hard forearm down against the back of Hunter’s neck. This give Swindle the chance to take Hunter down with a suplex, lift him back to his feet, and then hit a sudden ripcord clothesline. With DJ down, Swindle tags into Crowley, and together the members of Jormungandr hit a back suplex lift into a stiff European Uppercut. Before Swindle leaves the ring, Crowley hits Hunter with a head kick, and Swindle follows it up with a rolling elbow smash that takes DJ off his feet. As Swindle goes to the apron, Crowley tries to end things early…

ONE!
TWO!
KICKOUT!

As soon as DJ gets his shoulder off the mat, Crowley pulls him back to his feet and keeps him stunned with a few sharp elbow strikes. He then makes the quick tag back to Swindle, who hoists Hunter up for a fisherman buster as Jay hits him with a quick thrust kick! Crowley then goes back outside as Swindle takes his shot at putting Hunter away…

ONE!
TWO!
KICKOUT!

TREY BOOKER: We’re seeing some great teamwork by Jormungandr here, but we can’t overlook the determination DJ Hunter is showing with those kickouts!

J.T. PRICE: He’d still better find a way to bring Kyle in, or this thing is gonna be over quick.

Swindle lifts Hunter off the mat with a gut wrench, but before he can follow up with a move, DJ manages to slide behind Shelldrake and catch him with a sudden reverse neckbreaker! The move puts an end to Jormungandr’s momentum and gives Hunter a much needed chance to shake off the damage he’s been subjected to so far. Eventually both men get on their feet with Swindle standing first and throwing a hard lariat in Hunter’s direction. DJ manages to duck at the last second, and he fires off a sudden thrust kick to Swindle’s gut to double him over. From there, Hunter hits a DDT and once again both men remain on the mat. Once he starts to stir, DJ makes his way towards his corner for the tag, and Swindle does his best to stop him with a dive, but it’s too late! Kyle Valentine leaps into the ring and immediately fires into Swindle with a series of stiff shots!

Jay Crowley rushes into the ring to try and stop The Phantom Troupe from building any kind of momentum, but he’s met by a running big boot from Valentine that sends him to the mat! Kyle then turns his attention back to Swindle, hitting The Kraken with a discus lariat! Now back to his feet, DJ Hunter joins Kyle in hitting a pair of stereo superkicks before leaving the ring. With their first big chance in the match, Valentine goes for the pin…

ONE!
TWO!
BROKEN UP BY CROWLEY!

TREY BOOKER: Smart move on the part of Jay to break up that pin before leaving the ring.

J.T. PRICE: Valentine is still in control though. It might be time for Swindle to make a tag of his own.

Back inside the ring, Valentine drives Swindle into a neutral corner and softens him up with a few shoulder thrusts to the abdomen. He then forces Swindle onto the top rope, follows him onto the middle turnbuckle, and then sends Shelldrake flying off the top with an overhead belly to belly superplex! Swindle is rocked by the move and Valentine makes the quick tag to Hunter. Kyle then hits Swindle with a hard soccer kick before Hunter lands on him with a standing moonsault. The Thunderbird Special connects!

ONE!
TWO!
THR - KICKOUT!

As soon as Swindle kicks out, DJ hooks his head and pulls him back into his corner. There is another quick tag to bring Valentine back into the match, and this time The Phantom Troupe hit their target with the complex combination known as Sinner’s Nirvana! Hunter steps out of the ring and Valentine goes for another pin with Shelldrake in serious trouble…

ONE!
TWO!
THREE - NO!

Jay Crowley dives into the ring to break up another pinfall, but this interruption brings DJ Hunter back into the ring too, as he runs across the ring and drops Crowley with a shotgun dropkick! Valentine then pulls Swindle up into a Gory Special before Hunter springs off the middle rope with a front flip facebuster! Gran Rey Cero!

ONE!
TWO!
THREE - NO!

Another last minute save by Jay Crowley keeps Jormungandr in the game, but Swindle Shelldrake is still down after taking The Phantom Troupe’s finishing move. After breaking up the near fall, Crowley stays in the ring long enough to drop Kyle Hunter with a double arm DDT, and once again this brings DJ Hunter into the ring! Hunter and Crowley throw shots at each other back and forth with the referee doing his best to get between them and send them back to their corners. As the official manages to get a hold of DJ Hunter and force him backwards, Swindle and Valentine both pull themselves up. Crowley grabs the stunned Valentine and puts him in position for a tombstone, when Swindle joins in for a double knee lungblower. Deep Sea Damnation connects and Swindle rolls out of the ring while Crowley goes for the pin despite being the illegal man! Unfortunately for Jormungandr, the referee is still tied up with DJ Hunter in the corner and it takes him an extra long time to get in position for the count…

ONE!
TWO!
THREE - NO! SAVE BY HUNTER!

This time DJ Hunter is the one to make the save for his partner, breaking up the pin and giving Jormungandr a taste of their own medicine. Seeing both opponents in the ring, Swindle jumps back between the ropes and launches himself at DJ Hunter, both men throwing rights and lefts toward each other. Valentine and Crowley both get back to their feet and start to brawl as well, with the referee desperately trying to separate the four men and regain some kind of control. This only earns the referee a shove as Swindle and Hunter both push him out of the way in order to keep fighting. He tries the same thing with Valentine and Crowley, but once again he’s violently tossed aside. Finally accepting the fact that he’s lost all control, he signals for the bell…

DING! DING! DING!

The members of Jormungandr and The Phantom Troupe continue to brawl in the ring, bringing out a few more referees to help get things under control. As they are finally pulled apart, Holly Perez gives the official announcement...

HOLLY PEREZ: Ladies and gentlemen...due to a double disqualification...the referee has ruled this match a DRAW!!!

TREY BOOKER: Yet another match where a Project: Honor official can’t keep control of the competitors! These two teams were so evenly matched from the start, I think we all would have liked to see a clear winner!

J.T. PRICE: I’m starting to think Fallout has the right idea with their loose rules. Indy Darling is going to have to do something about these referees if we ever want to have some decisive outcomes!


Following the previous match, we go backstage for a quick update on the condition of TJ Thompson. We see the Hipbeast laying on the trainer’s table as an EMT is wrapping his head with a thick white bandage. Seated beside him is Lil’ Petey, the Warrior Rising Title laying in his lap, as he hangs his head in remorse. Petey is so distraught over injuring his friend that he’s at a loss for words, while TJ seems to be half-conscious and somewhat delirious.

TJ THOMPSON: ...who’s...on your team? Raid...play for free...promo code….DRIP…




HOLLY PEREZ: The following contest is scheduled for one fall...

Every light in the arena shuts off… moments later, a single blue spotlight shines to the curtain as the opening melody for “The Eagle Flies Alone” by Arch Enemy plays over the PA system and the crowd is giving their mixed reactions… The longtime fans have cheered, and overpower the ones who do not know whether to cheer or not; some join in just out of peer pressure. Fog has filled the stage. The first verse comes and goes. The chorus comes in.

I, I go my own way!
I swim against the stream!
(Forever) I will fight the powers that be!

Tara emerges from behind the curtains; her head is covered by her hood. Tara stands at the top of the stage with a sneer on her face as her eyes scan the crowd as if to find her supporters. Some of the crowd has gotten louder in her favor, while others are still mixed. Tara flings the hood back, and takes a better look at the crowd. The legendary Tara strides down the ramp; the stride turns to a brisk walk about halfway down the ramp. The crowd along the front row is bowing down to her. As she reaches the bottom of the ramp, she goes around to the camera side of the ring, leaps onto the apron with one knee and straightens out her other leg while looking at the crowd and the camera.

I, I go my own way!
I swim against the stream!
(Forever) I will fight the pοwers that be!
The eagle flies alone!

Tara crawls between the middle and lower ropes, and crawls to the middle of the ring. After standing up, she walks to the nearest turnbuckle and goes to the second turnbuckle; she just stares out at the crowd, and shouts out inaudible words. After several seconds of basking, she does a one-eighty off of the second rope and landing. She hands her coat to the referee, then proceeds to wait for the match to start.

HOLLY PEREZ: Introducing first, residing in Hartford, Connecticut and weighing in at one hundred forty three pounds… “The Phoenix Queen”...TARA FENIX!!!

“Feel Invincible” by Skillet suddenly sounds throughout the building and the crowd erupt into an undeniably positive response. After a few second’s 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 her opponent...hailing from San Jose, California and weighing in at two hundred eleven pounds...he is “The Straight Shooter”...MARK HUNTER!!!

TREY BOOKER: Tonight’s card has been filled with interesting match-ups, but I don’t know if any of them are as promising as what we’re about to witness.

J.T. PRICE: Mark Hunter has established himself as one of the top guys in this company, a spot that Tara desperately wants to reach. While some might be willing to go to any lengths, something tells me this one is going to be as clean as a freshly shaved scrotum.

TREY BOOKER: Good lord, J.T….just when I thought you were going to add something of value to commentary…

DING! DING! DING!

Mark and Tara are in no rush to start off the match, as they circle each other and keep their eyes locked. Then, before the action begins in earnest, Mark extends his hand in a show of sportsmanship to his opponent. Tara considers the offer for a moment, but finally she reaches out to accept the gesture. The two shake hands as the crowd cheers, but suddenly Tara pulls Mark in and rolls him to the mat with a small package!

ONE!
TWO!
THR - KICKOUT!

Tara rolls away with a smile on her face as Mark sits up with a shocked expression. Tara gestures that she was “this close” to keeping his shoulders on the mat, and Mark responds with his own smile and a nod of his head. The two competitors get back on their feet and enter a lock up, with Mark quickly transitioning to a side headlock. He squeezes Tara’s head under his arm, and The Phoenix Queen tries to power out of the hold by lifting Mark into a back suplex. Instead, Mark wrenches down on the hold tighter and refuses to leave his feet. Tara switches up tactics by jabbing a few elbows into his midsection, then shoves him off toward the ropes. Mark charges back, but Tara drops down to the mat. Mark bounces back again, and this time Tara leapfrogs over him. Hunter charges back a third time, at which point Tara meets him with a picture perfect dropkick to the face!

Mark jumps back up and throws a wild swing, which Tara ducks under before hooking his head and dropping him with an inverted headlock backbreaker. Again, Hunter is quick to return to a standing position, but this time Tara meets him with a drop toe hold, reaches out to grab his lower leg, and locks on a single leg Boston Crab!

TREY BOOKER: Tara Fenix is really showing her skills in there!

J.T. PRICE: Mark looks as lost as I did that one time my mom left me at Wal-Mart…

Tara holds on to the Boston Crab, but soon finds that Mark has plenty of strength left as he powers out of it and kicks her toward the ropes. She rushes back into Mark catching her with a monkey flip, but Tara lands on her feet, turns, and drives a hard spinning thrust kick to the side of Hunter’s head! She dives down for a sudden pin attempt…

ONE!
TWO!
KICKOUT!

Mark jumps back up and Tara once again tries to take him down with a drop toe hold, but this time Mark is able to steady himself and he drops an elbow onto Tara’s lower back instead! Mark then grabs one of Tara’s legs and starts to go to work on it with elbow drops and stomps, before finally driving her leg into the mat by dropping back with her foot hooked under his arm. Tara then rolls away in an attempt to put some distance between them, but Mark is quickly after her, scooping her up and dropping her back across his knee with a backbreaker. Tara is holding her lower back as she gets back up, and Mark immediately responds by hooking her for a German Suplex!

Mark then grabs Tara’s legs and starts to wrap her up in a Sharpshooter, but The Phoenix Queen senses it coming and stretches out to grab the bottom rope before it’s applied. Mark breaks the attempt without even taking a one count from the ref, but after Tara gets on her feet he reaches down to snag her leg and then whips her back to the mat with a dragon screw! Keeping her ankle in his grasp, Mark once again sets Tara up for a Sharpshooter, and this time the hold is locked on!

Tara immediately begins to claw her way toward the ring ropes to escape further damage to her legs and lower back, but just as she’s about to reach the bottom rope, Mark pulls her back to the center of the ring! The referee is right there to ask Tara, but she makes it clear that she isn’t about to submit! Again she tries to pull herself toward the ropes, but Mark will not allow it as he kneels down lower to the mat. Not willing to give up and unable to drag Mark across the ring with her, Tara finally starts to turn her body, hoping to pull Hunter off balance. After a painfully long time in the hold, she finally manages to roll to her side and trip up her opponent.

Mark willingly releases the hold, but he’s quick to grab Tara’s ankle and keep her in the middle of the ring. Knowing that he’s gotten her softened up, he starts to reapply the Sharpshooter, but this time Tara reaches up to hook his head and roll his shoulders to the mat…

ONE!
TWO!
KICKOUT!

TREY BOOKER: Another near fall for Tara with that small package.

J.T. PRICE: I prefer to call it an inside cradle. Small package just seems so demeaning…

Tara gets back to her feet with an obvious limp, and Mark Hunter cannot resist trying to take advantage of it. He ducks in looking to grab Tara’s leg again, but this time she grabs him by the head and falls backwards, hitting a modified version of her Fallen Phoenix code breaker! The move successfully stuns Mark and gives Tara some valuable time to recover as she pulls herself up with the ropes and tries to shake the feeling back into her limbs. Her current injured state gives Mark the chance to get back on his feet as well, but he’s met by a stiff kick to his lower leg...then one to his thigh...then to his ribs. Again and again, Tara fires off various shoot kicks to different parts of Mark’s body, seemingly so random that he’s unable to block any of them. Tara finally ends her combination with a big roundhouse kick to the side of Mark’s head, dropping him to the mat!

Tara staggers backwards but is caught by the ropes, as Mark groggily shakes his head while kneeling on the canvas. Fighting off the pain, Tara charges forward as quickly as she can, planting a shining wizard kick against the kneeling Mark Hunter. With the momentum shifting and her adrenaline pumping, Tara pulls Mark towards the corner and then steps up to the second turnbuckle. She hooks both of his arms and spins off the buckles, planting Mark with the Phoenix Wings! Slowly, Tara scoots towards Mark and hooks his leg…

ONE!
TWO!
THREE! NO!

Mark manages to get his shoulder off the mat at the last second, much to Tara’s dismay. Still, believing that she’s taken enough out of him to keep him on the mat, Tara goes to the corner and begins to ascend. Mark surprises her though, as he begins to get to his feet. Instead of diving onto his prone body, Tara chooses to attempt the Phoenix Perch instead and leaps towards Mark with the double stomp...but he ducks under it at the last second! Tara crashes and burns on the mat as Mark stumbles into the corner, having saved himself from possible defeat! The Phoenix Queen doesn’t want to lose any of the momentum she’s gained and tries to get back up as quickly as possible, but one of her legs gives out! It quickly becomes obvious that the missed Phoenix Perch and awkward landing has done its fair share of damage.

Mark then watches as Tara slowly pulls herself up and as she gets to her feet he jumps forward with Instant Karma! The superkick connects and sends Tara flying to the mat! He dives down for the cover…

ONE!
TWO!
THREE - NO! IN THE ROPES!

The referee notices Tara’s foot hanging over the bottom rope just as he’s about to count the three, and Mark’s hopes of ending the hard-fought contest are suddenly dashed. Still, it’s clear that Tara has been kicked senseless, so Mark drags her to the middle before heading toward the top rope. He then flies off with Tara dead to rights, looking to hit Zero Gravity! She gets the knees up and Mark’s midsection crashes across them, not only damaging Mark’s ribs but possibly adding further damage to Tara’s wounded leg! Now both competitors are down, giving the referee little choice but to count them both…

TREY BOOKER: Amazing back and forth action by both of these elite warriors!

J.T. PRICE: I’m not sure either of them will get back up...

ONE!
TWO!
THREE!
FOUR!

They both start to stir, Mark clutching at his ribs while Tara grasps at her sore knee…

FIVE!
SIX!
SEVEN!
EIGHT!

Both make it up to one knee, but that isn’t enough as far as the referee is concerned…

NINE!
TEN!

NO!

Hunter and Fenix both get to their feet at nine and a half, then they stagger backwards, both being held up by the ring ropes. Seeing that Tara is still in trouble despite being able to block Zero Gravity, Mark pulls himself together and runs towards her, but she counters his charge at the last second with a back body drop! Mark sails over the top rope, but successfully lands with his feet on the apron. He then watches as Tara hobbles to the center of the ring and then springboards back in with a crossbody! The move is on target, but as Tara hits the mat she rolls with the momentum and ends up on top for the pin!

ONE!
TWO!
THREE! - NO...KICKOUT!

Not surprised by his opponent’s tenacity but perhaps frustrated by it all the same, Mark grabs Tara by the head and yanks her to her feet! He then spins his own body, looking to drop her with The Antidote twist of fate, when she wraps her arms around his waist and rolls backwards into a cradle…

ONE!
TWO!
THREE!

DING! DING! DING!

HOLLY PEREZ: The winner of the match by pinfall...TARA FENIX!!!

Mark kicks out of the pin immediately after the three count and sits up with a complete look of shock on his face, as Tara scoots away toward the ropes, nearly overcome with a mix of joy and physical pain.

TREY BOOKER: Tara Fenix has done it! Less than two weeks after losing the Warrior Rising Title in shocking fashion, she has just captured a win over a former Grand Champion!

J.T. PRICE: Daaaamn...I don’t think Mark is gonna take this very well…

Just as J.T. hinted at, Mark gets onto his feet and hangs his head while clearly cursing himself. He then turns to look at Tara, who is attempting to pull herself up with the assistance of the ropes. Without hesitation, Mark immediately stomps across the ring and reaches down to grab Tara’s arm, yanking her to a standing position!

He stares her down...the disappointment from his loss clearly building deep within...and then holds out his hand. Tara looks at Mark’s face, then down at his extended hand, finally reaching out with trepidation…

And Mark Hunter grasps her hand firmly, shaking it before raising her arm into the air. With Mark’s support, Tara limps away from the ropes, bringing a huge ovation from the sold out crowd in Wrigley Field.

TREY BOOKER: Now that’s one hell of a way to show respect for an opponent! Tara may have gotten the best of Mark by the slightest of margins here tonight, but The Straight Shooter is willing to accept it and give Tara her moment to shine!

J.T. PRICE: Imagine coming off a loss for the Warrior Rising Title and then upsetting one of the top guys. Even I’m impressed…

TREY BOOKER: Mark Hunter, TJ Thompson, and Swindle Shelldrake are all in line for a Grand Title shot, but all three have been taken to their limits here tonight! It just goes to show you that anyone can get a win over anyone else on any given night!


Following the previous encounter, we go backstage where Crystal Ward is standing by with Proving Ground’s General Manager, Indy Darling. After a brief round of cheers from the fans in Wrigley Field, Crystal gets the interview underway.

CRYSTAL WARD: Thanks for joining us, Indy. Rumor has it, you have some big announcements to make regarding Proving Ground’s next Pay-Per-View Event, Clash for the Cup on November 14th. Care to let us in on your plans?

INDY DARLING: Sure thing, Crystal. First of all, people are already asking me what Clash for the Cup even means, and I’m happy to clear that up right now. As most of you know, my father was an aspiring professional wrestler and despite losing him at a young age, I’ve tried to apply some of the life lessons he taught me to my own wrestling career and as the General Manager. That’s why I’m pleased to announce that Rock Johnson has given me permission to hold Project: Honor’s first ever Round Robin Tournament for The Clive Darling Memorial Cup.

CRYSTAL WARD: A Round Robin? Interesting...but who do you have in mind to compete?

INDY DARLING: This is something I’ve given a lot of thought to. Obviously my dad’s name will be on the trophy, so it means a lot to me personally. At the same time, I need to do what’s best for Proving Ground whether I like everyone on the roster or not. That’s why I’ve selected Brandon Hendrix, Emmanuelle, Tara Fenix...and Lance Williams as the four participants in this Round Robin.

CRYSTAL WARD: Oh...you realize Lance is about to bash your dad’s name and reputation over the next few weeks, right?

INDY DARLING: Yeah, I’m aware of that, but Lance can say whatever he likes about my dad. The truth is, he was someone who never gave up, who fought with everything he had, and always aspired to work harder to elevate himself and the companies he worked for. That’s why I’ve chosen those four, because I see the same qualities in each of them. The Round Robin will officially begin on the next Proving Ground and eventually culminate at Clash for the Cup. A win by pin or submission will earn someone five points, a win by DQ or count out will earn them four points, a draw will earn them three, a loss by pin or submission will earn them two points, and a loss by DQ or count out will earn them only one point. When the tournament ends at the Pay Per View, the competitor who has amassed the most points will be awarded the trophy.

CRYSTAL WARD: Sounds like you have put some thought into this. So, other than the trophy and being recognized as the winner of the tournament, what’s in it for Brandon, Emmanuelle, Lance, and Tara?

INDY DARLING: I’m glad you asked, Crystal. Along with the trophy and the bragging rights, the winner will also earn a future shot at the Proving Ground title of their choice, whether it be the Warrior Rising, X-Factor, or Grand Championship itself.

CRYSTAL WARD: Wow...I guess that definitely makes it worth their best effort. Thank you so much for your time, Indy…

The GM holds up his hand and gives the reporter a smile.

INDY DARLING: Not so fast, Crystal. There’s one other thing I’d like to address when it comes to Clash for the Cup, and that’s the Grand Championship. Heading into Night of Honor, I promised each of the members of Team Proving Ground a future shot at the belt for putting their differences aside during that match. I’d say they lived up to their part of the bargain, and despite what Arata Asakura claims, I’m going to do the same. Unfortunately Ulf Hednir has had to step away from Project: Honor due to family commitments for the time being, but I will still be granting those title shots to Arata Asakura, Mark Hunter, Swindle Shelldrake, and TJ Thompson. In fact, at Clash for the Cup, they’ll all get their shot at Ozymandias and the Grand Championship. I’ll have more details on that match in the coming weeks, but for now, those five competitors will main event Clash for the Cup in a Grand Championship match.

CRYSTAL WARD: There you have it! Not only will we have a Round Robin Tournament for the Clive Darling Memorial Trophy, but we’ve got a huge Grand Championship Match to look forward to as well! Thanks again, Indy!

INDY DARLING: My pleasure as always, Crystal.

Indy and Crystal exchange a pair of flirtatious smiles as the interview comes to a close and we return to the ringside area.



HOLLY PEREZ: The following match is tonight's main event, it is a non title contest, and is scheduled for one fall.

"Honō no Megami (炎の女神)" by Adrian von Ziegler hits around the arena.

HOLLY PEREZ: Introducing first… from Osaka, Japan... weighing in at two hundred twenty pounds… “The GaiJin Killer”...ARATA ASAKURA!!!

Arata wastes no time, he makes his way down the ramp and under the bottom rope like a man on a mission.

HOLLY PEREZ: His opponent… Wrestling out of Reine, Norway and weighing in tonight at three hundred and fifty-seven pounds… he is the current, reigning Project Honor Grand Champion… “The Butcher of Reine”… OZZYYYYYYMMAAAAANNDDDIIIAASSS!!!

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.

TREY BOOKER: Time to state the obvious, this is going to be brutal.

J.T. PRICE: Ozymadias must still be feeling the match against Cadillac Jackson, that was a defining moment for both.

TREY BOOKER: If Ozy isn’t ready then Arata will enjoy hurting him.

DING! DING! DING!

Ozy and Arata approach each other, and despite being the smaller man it’s clear Arata isn’t intimidated. After some verbals, Arata open hand slaps Ozymandias seriously hard across the face. Ozymandias responds almost instinctively with a swift kick to the gut which doubles Arata over, Ozy then hits a few clubbing blows to the back before forcing his smaller opponent into the corner. Ozy uses his shoulder to attack the gut of Arata over and over again.

TREY BOOKER: I’m not sure slapping Ozymandias is ever a good idea.

J.T. PRICE: Where as I’m sure Arata Asakura couldn’t give a flying fuck what we think is or isn’t a good idea.

Ozymandias picks up his smaller opponent and turns, he runs and drives Arata into the opposite corner, Ozy follows this up with relentless shoulders to the gut. After seeing enough the referee gets involved and drags Ozy away. Not interested in that though, he comes straight back in only to be met by a super kick to the jaw from Arata forcing Ozy to stumble. Arata runs at the bigger man only to be thrown over head with a belly to belly suplex, Arata though lands on his feet and nails the bigger man with a sickening penalty kick to the head. Arata hooks the leg…

ONE!
TWO!
T… KICK OUT BY OZY!!

TREY BOOKER: This is serious hard hitting stuff!

J.T. PRICE: If this is a sign of things to come for season three, I’m gonna enjoy this shit.

Whilst Arata stares a hole through the ref, Ozymanias rolls under the bottom rope to the outside.

TREY BOOKER: Ozy going for a breather would seem like a good idea but Arata is already following him.

Arata is now on the apron of the ring and waiting for Ozymandias to turn towards him, eventually the bigger man obliges and gets nailed by a jumping knee to the head. A dazed looking Ozy doesn’t fall but instinctively rolls back under the rope into the ring, he is literally being hunted by Arata though who follows him in. Arata Asakura attempts a spin kick but is caught by Ozy who instantly throws him overhead with a german suplex, again Arata lands on his feet. Upon turning Ozymandias is met by another super kick to the jaw forcing him to stumble but again not knocking him down, Arata follows up with a knee to the skull which does drop Ozymandias to a knee. Sensing an opportunity Asakura runs in but is met by a desperate leaping clothesline. Both men are down.

TREY BOOKER: Arata has been impressive but just like that Ozy is back in this.

J.T. PRICE: When you’re as big as Ozymandias one move changes everything.

The ref has reached a count of four as Ozy gets to his feet, as he shakes the cobwebs loose Arata rises and heads towards the bigger man, Ozy hits a pop-up spinebuster that literally causes the ring to shake. Clearly not wanting to give the quicker man any room to move Ozy is on him and dragging him up instantly, Ozy goes for and nails a release german suplex.

TREY BOOKER: No fancy landing from Arata this time.

J.T. PRICE: No but he is moving.

It’s Arata’s turn now to roll under the ropes and to the outside, he drops straight to the floor and is followed by Ozymandias. The big man literally just stands behind Arata waiting for him to stand, as soon as Arata does so Ozy sends him flying with a release german suplex on the outside.

ONE!
TWO!

J.T. PRICE: He’s dead!

Ozy smirks at his handy work and rolls back into the ring as the ref continues counting Arata out…

THREE!
FOUR! Arata starts to move.
FIVE!
SIX! Arata is up and slowly rolls under the bottom rope.

J.T. PRICE: He’s not dead!

As Arata uses the ropes to get up he is grabbed by Ozmandias who this time sends him flying with a t-bone suplex, Ozy makes the cover on a lifeless looking Arata Asakura…

ONE!
TWO!
THR… KICK OUT BY ARATA!!

TREY BOOKER: Great kick out.

J.T. PRICE: Arata is a tough bastard.

Ozy looks stunned at the kick out and can’t help but get in the ref’s face, the ref however stands his ground. The scene is destroyed by Arata from seemingly nowhere nailing Ozy in the back of the head with a bicycle knee strike, with Ozy down on a knee Arata climbs the turnbuckle. As Ozy returns to both feet Arata takes off going for a diving hurricanrana, Arata lands on Ozy’s shoulders but instead of completing the move gets dropped hard by Ozy into a sit out powerbomb.

TREY BOOKER: Great counter!

The Butcher of Reine screams at the fallen body of Arata “Stay down you fucker” but gets a middle fingered response to the face from his relentless opponent.

TREY BOOKER: Oh man, Arata may have just signed his own death warrant.

Ozymandias looks absolutely pissed and literally ragdolls Arata to his feet, Ozy hooks him and lifts him up before sending him down with a vertical suplex that could almost be described as more of a throw. A still pissed Ozy again ragdolls Arata up before this time forcing him back into a corner.

J.T. PRICE: What’s not to love about these two fighting? I could watch this all damn night.

Ozymandias takes a step back before running in with a shoulder to the gut attempt, Arata is able to move meaning Ozy hits the turnbuckle hard and stumbles back falling to his knees.

TREY BOOKER: Just like that this match is in the balance again. And look, Arata now appears to be lining Ozy up...

Asakura has a sick grin on his face and takes Ozymandias down with his hurricanrana driver.

TREY BOOKER: PAINKILLER!!

Rather than go for a cover, Arata uses the ropes and springs off with a perfect looking lionsault to the clearly struggling Ozymandias.

J.T. PRICE: COVER HIM DAMMIT!!!

Rather than going for the cover though, Arata deliberately backs up into the far corner and awaits some movement from his opponent, Arata is bouncing in the corner like an uncoiled spring ready to be released. Eventually Ozy is halfway up and Arata takes off… Brutal Shining Wizard to the back of The Butcher Of Reine’s head!!

TREY BOOKER: RAIKIRI!!!

J.T. PRICE: HE’S DONE IT!!!!!!

Arata hooks the far leg…

ONE!
TWO!
THREE! ARAT… NO… OZY ACTUALLY ROLLED HIS SHOULDER OFF THE MAT!!!

J.T. PRICE: What?

A stunned Arata instantly backs up to the same corner as before and whilst shaking his head seems to be lining Ozymandias up for another Raikiri attempt. That’s when “Feel Invincible” by Skillet starts to play over the Wrigley Field sound system and Mark Hunter steps onto the entrance ramp. With a sly smile that shows he’s been enjoying this back and forth war, Hunter stays on the stage to watch things unfold for himself. Unfortunately, his arrival has thrown Arata off his game for a few precious seconds, and as he charges in for another attempted Raikir, Ozymandias leaps up and hooks his opponent’s head...flipping into the air and down to the mat with The Sinking Faith!

ONE!
TWO!
THREE!

DING! DING! DING!

HOLLY PEREZ: The winner of the match by way of pinfall...the Project Honor Grand Champion...OZYMANDIAS!

TREY BOOKER: I don’t know if that was Mark Hunter’s intention, but his arrival may have been enough of a distraction to turn this one to Ozymandias’ favor!

J.T. PRICE: Stupid Mark Hunter can’t mind his own business…

TREY BOOKER: But the Grand Championship IS his business, J.T.! He will be one of four men meeting Ozymandias at Clash for the Cup!

As Ozymandias gets back on his feet, Mark Hunter casually strolls to the ring. The champion turns just in time to see The Straight Shooter step between the ropes, but instead of immediate physicality, the two men simply size each other up. Ozymandias holds the Grand Championship above his head as Mark stares him down and gives a confident nod. Suddenly, the face-off is interrupted as Arata Asakura springs off the ropes and nails Ozymandias with another Raikiri! The champion drops to the mat and the Grand Championship tumbles out of his hands, but unwilling to fall in the same fashion, Mark Hunter quickly unloads an Instant Karma superkick on Asakura!

With both men down, Mark spies the fallen championship that used to be his, and with a smile he slowly goes to retrieve it. As he bends over to pick it up, he has no way of knowing that Swindle Shelldrake has emerged from the crowd to slide into the ring! He immediately hooks Mark and lifts him into the air...Violent Salvage! With a grin on his face, Swindle slowly picks up the Grand Championship and looks at it longingly.

It looks as if Shelldrake has had the last laugh, when he’s suddenly taken off his feet and put into position for a running C4...HIP TRAIN by TJ Thompson!!! Ozymandias, Arata Asakura, Mark Hunter, and Swindle Shelldrake are all down on the mat, and as the only man left standing, TJ Thompson picks up the grand championship in his hands. With bloody bandages covering his forehead, he raises the belt above his head and gives a shout. As the other competitors begin to recover and try to understand what they’re seeing, Thompson stands alone with the championship, soaking in the adulation of the crowd as Proving Ground goes off the air...