“Supreme Championship Wrestling...”

A shot of Kelcey Wallace nailing Bree Lancaster with the Perfect Ending, followed by a shot of Steve Griffin hitting the Decimator off the top rope on CHBK at the first Rise to Greatness, before turning a shot of Jake Starr pumping up the crowd on his way to the ring, before turning into a shot of Ravyn Taylor sitting in the corner, waiting for the start of a match. We then see a shot of Katie Steward holding the Women’s Championship before cutting to a shot of Selena Frost hitting Vixen Cain with the Defying Gravity at Supreme Saturday: Just Desserts.

“The leading force in sports and entertainment today....”

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MAIN SHOW:

The opening bars of “The Old Me” by Memphis May Fire play as the Breakdown logo flies across the screen.

I'm thinking about the old me
'Cause I've been feeling empty
I never used to be so dead inside

Shots of Syren celebrating with the World Championship start before we see a shot of the Beauty Factory standing tall in the ring. Following this is Aaron Blackbourne hitting the Unchained Creativity on an opponent. Katie Steward hitting the Save the Queen on Ace Marshall follows.

I think I lost my memory
I can't remember carefree
And all my days turn into fight or flight

Owen Cruze hitting the Cruze Stomp on an opponent follows before we see Selena Frost hitting the Glass Shard on Bree Lancaster. Bree Lancaster hitting the Classifier on Aaron Blackbourne follows before we see Asher Hayes and Cid Turner coming out of their A/C unit.

I wanna get back, tell me how to get back
I wanna get back, tell me how to get back

Giovanni Aries dragging Jason Helms into the Wonderland hole at Cold Blooded 2020 follows before we see Kandis and Tommy Valentine holding the SCW World Tag Team Championship.
David Helms standing on the ropes follows before we see Jordan Majors hitting a Cash Out on Sienna Swann. Cookie Dreams holding up the TV Championship follows.

Say it again, say it again, tell me what I wanna hear
Tell me that I'm gonna be fine and there's nothing left to fear
'Cause I've been losing sleep (losing sleep)
Trying to get back to who I used to be
Where is the old me?

Chris Cannon spearing Kennedy Street and Owen Cruze follows before we see a shot of Alistaire Allocco on his way to the ring, and then a shot of Regan Street and Datura swinging chairs at one another. The Breakdown logo comes up on the screen and remains on it for a few moments.

We then cut to a live shot of the inside of the Simmons Bank Arena in Little Rock, Arkansas. The cameras pan across the crowd for a few moments.

Sharper: “The final stop before Retribution – we come to you live from the Natural State for Breakdown!”

The cameras pan across the crowd for a few moments before cutting to ringside where Adam Sharper and Jonathan Knots stand next to the ring, microphones in hand.

Sharper: “Adam Sharper here at ringside alongside Jonathan Knots and folks, a big night. Big main event. Selena Frost faces Syren, one on one!”

Knots: “Just over a week before she teams with David Helms to face Syren and her wife, Ravyn Taylor at Retribution. Asher Hayes will also be in action. Tommy Valentine awaits him. Underground Rules. After last time, this is going to get brutal!”

Sharper: “And just days before he needs to worry about challenging for both the SCW World and World Tag Team Titles at Retribution-“

A video starts on play on the SCW-Tron disrupting Adam Sharper and Jonathan Knots as they turn their attention toward the footage. It appears to show someone wearing a body cam type apparatus, and they are sneaking in through the back door on a beach into an awfully familiar looking house.

Sharper: “Is that….”

Knots: “I’ve been there… it’s…. Chris Cannon’s home!?”

The footage continues as the person slowly opens the sliding glass door, they have something in their hand, like a dog treat, suddenly a huge Akita runs out and the person throws the treat, he chases after it and the culprit sneaks in and closes the sliding glass door as it comes running back and jumps on the glass barking away, the camera focuses on the dog for a second before you hear a mischievous giggle.

Voice: “Bear!? What is going on boy!?”

The familiar voice is none other than SCW Superstar Peyton Rice.

Sharper: “That’s Peyton Rice!?”

Knots: “What are we seeing here!? Is this…wait….”

She walks out in just shorts and a t-shirt, whoever is filming this looks down at their hand holding a lead pipe, Peyton turns into the living room not noticing the person hiding by the wall next to the fireplace.

Peyton: “Bear? How did you get outside boy? I don’t remember leaving this open and….”

Suddenly the assailant rushes behind Peyton and cracks her right knee with the lead pipe, she quickly falls to the floor screaming in pain, the person stands over her and slams the lead pipe again over and over on Peyton’s knee as she screams, muddled by the barking of Bear outside trying to rush into the house but cannot. The person stands over her as Peyton rolls around on the floor, her knee obviously severely damaged, now crying in pain.

Voice: “You thought the sins of the past were not going to rear their ugly head again, huh Pey-Pey? Funny how life works, and to know that my father treated you better than he treated his OWN DAUGHTER!”

The crowd watching is completely silent and in shock. Sharper and Knots recognize that voice.

Sharper: “It’s Minerva! This is the footage of the attack from last week! What the hell?!”

Knots: “Damn it!”

Minerva then stands by Peyton who holds her knee, slamming the floor in anger and frustration as The Gypsy Moth starts to laugh.

Minerva: “Allow me the pleasure to introduce you to my good friend, Lachesis. I have taken out a few knees with him already, called this little toy after one of the Fates, the one that decides when it ENDS for you. Did you think ducking Kandis was going to fly with me? My new bestie? Or did you think this whole Perfection schtick would make you a world champion? It certainly put you in the good graces of my father. Peyton….”

Suddenly Peyton tries to get up and lunges at Minerva who steps back some, Peyton crawls and grabs The Gypsy’s leg….

Minerva: “Such heroic nonsense…..”

With that said Minerva swings the lead pipe slamming it across the jaw of Peyton knocking her unconscious instantly. She flips her over and finally unhooks the body cam which happens to be an awfully expensive iPhone and she selfies herself in a black hoodie, taking it off and revealing her shoulder length orange hair. She lifts the head of the sprawled-out Peyton…

Minerva: “Not just another Pretty Face, with a broken jaw that is.”

She licks the side of Peyton’s cheek before dropping her head to a thud. She turns and digs in Peyton’s jean shorts taking out her cellphone, she holds it to her face to open it, then goes through the contacts and sees Kelcey’s name, she calls…

Kelcey: “Hey Pey.”

Minerva: “It’s not Pey, come over, she needs help.”

Kelcey: “Excuse me!? Who is this!?”

Minerva: “Inevitability.”

Minerva hangs up the phone and throws it on Peyton’s chest, she then takes out a rose and places it on top of her, before standing up and glaring into the camera with her icy blue eyes, the barking of Bear can still be heard in the background.

Minerva: “You have an incredibly beautiful home here Mr. Cannon, love the beach view. Don’t worry, I’ll clean up.”

The Gypsy laughs some, looking back down at Peyton and then toward the camera…

Minerva: “Kandis, that was for you, and Konrad, honey bunny, thanks for this awesome phone, as for the SCW? Ask Peyton when she wakes up, moving forward, you have been put on notice, after Retribution? My Heaven, is Your Hell.”

She starts to laugh louder almost in a cackle, her eyes widened as the camera focuses on Peyton lying there with a torn-up knee and bruise to the side of her face already swelling on her jaw before….

STATIC

The crowd boos as we cut to see Adam Sharper and Jonathan Knots at the announce table, both shocked.

Knots: “We heard about the attack last week…but…”

Sharper: “Why the hell would we play that? What purpose does it serve beyond showing how deprived this woman is!”

Knots: “And Kandis was encouraging it. On the phone. She told her to get in touch. She knew!”

Sharper: “Just…just…”

The scene switches as we see Minerva smiling as she walks out of the production truck. She turns back and smirks.

Minerva: “Anytime baby…thank you for the favour.”

Minerva laughs as she walks down the steps of the production truck before then stopping, holding her hands up.

Minerva: “Oh no…you caught me.”

Dean Black walks over along with security.

Black: “Escort her off the premises. We’re not even going to start this tonight.”

Minerva: “But you’ve wanted me here for weeks. I already had Konrad get me the money-“

Black: “Get her out of here.”

Minerva smirks as the security personnel grab her and start to walk her off. The crowd boos as Black shakes his head following.

Sharper: “In one sense, this is being nipped in the bud. Minerva being escorted.”

Knots: “So she’s suspended right?”

Sharper: “Maybe. Let’s hope after this travesty…”

We then cut backstage to see Chris Cannon in front of the monitor, looking at it as he then takes a deep breath and looks down, clearly trying to keep his emotions in check. Lucas Knight just stands to the side, hands on his hips as the World Tag Team and World Championships sit on the bench behind him.

Lucas: “She’s trying to get to you…to…”

Chris: “I know damn well what she’s trying. I know damn well what they’re doing. To call Kelcey. With everything else….”

Lucas: “You call it here, Chris…”

Chris looks at the monitor and then glances behind him to the titles and then back before getting up and swatting a bag off the bench, tossing it to the floor in anger. Chris then steps forward, only to stop, as Lucas goes to follow.

Chris: “No…I need to take a walk.”

Lucas nods.

Lucas: “Alright.”

Chris heads off as the scene cuts to commercial.

COMMERCIALS

Breakdown returns as we see Jessica Winters, looking at Kandis with a bit of disgust before turning to the camera. The camera pans out to show Tommy Valentine also with Kandis.

Jessica: “Welcome back to Breakdown and I’m Jessica Winters and I’m here looking for answers. Kandis, Minerva clearly did that for you. Clearly referring to you and you can’t feign innocence to this. You’ve been on the phone with someone, talking about how something would be done. This has to be this.”

Kandis smirks a bit and turns to Jessica.

Kandis: “What of it?”

Jessica: “Minerva could have permanently hurt her! What is wrong with you?”

Kandis: “Just like her not showing up because she isn’t hard enough for this business could’ve hurt MY career. I don’t feel sorry for her in the slightest. I’m starting to like Minerva more and more. So she cracked a few eggs to put a smile on my face. People have a problem with it. I’m right here!”

Kandis smiles.

Jessica: “All this to just get more notoriety. Unbelievable! Tommy-“

Tommy: “That’s her plan. I have mine tonight. All I’ll say…last time I was in the ring with the number one contender in an Underground Rules match, I walked out victorious. Asher…good luck.”

Tommy and Kandis turn as Chris Cannon walks over to them. Kandis smirks as Tommy stands up in front of Kandis.

Kandis: “Looks like I’m getting attention.”

Chris: “I hope you’re pleased…because Kandis…Tommy…both of you…I don’t care if people don’t like it. I can’t get my hands on you at Retribution. And I know you’ll want something from me depending on how that night goes. Whatever you want, I’ll give it and I will make sure you both regret anything you had to do with it.”

Kandis: “Not forget about my new bestie.”

Chris: “Don’t get me started there.”

Tommy: “You’ve already started everywhere else.”

Kandis and Tommy head off as Chris watches them leave. Kandis then yells back.

Kandis: “Thanks Minerva!”

Kandis laughs a bit. Chris watches them leave, the camera cutting to his fists which have remained clenched the entire time before we cut away.

Sharper: “Chris Cannon is just a ball of pure anger and Kandis…what the hell is wrong with her?”

An older bald man with glasses wearing a suit and red tie stands in the middle of the ring. The man is holding a stack of papers in one hand and a microphone in the other. He is sweating profusely, using the papers to blot his forehead.

Sharper: “Who the hell is this guy? Can we get security out here?”

Knots: “He’s The Silent Majority’s lawyer! World-renowned lawyer Rudy Powell!”

Sharper: “You’ve got to be kidding me….After what we’ve seen, now this crap.”

Rudy Powell licks his front teeth and grins. The crowd remains quiet, unsure of what to make of him.

Rudy Powell: “Ladies and gentlemen, last week on Breakdown we witnessed one of the worst travesties in American history. Ricky James was placed in an unconstitutional match, having to defend his Championship of Television for the THIRD consecutive week. THIRD!

Sharper: “Doesn’t he know that….nevermind”

Rudy Powell: “Our legal team warned SCW that the match would be held under protest. After yet another display of shady officiating and with the use of a FOREIGN OBJECT, Ricky James had his title STOLEN from him. We will not stand for this. I am here to announce we are officially filing a lawsuit against SCW and Shady Sasha! There is overwhelming evidence of a global conspiracy here, ladies and gentlemen. If it wasn’t obvious enough with the Championship of Television match, just take a look at this “Scaffold Scramble”, which is full of OSHA violations. We are sure Canada has enlisted the help of other foreign nations to-“

Rudy’s mic abruptly cuts out and security can be seen coming down the ramp towards the ring. One guard hops up onto the apron and enters the ring. Rudy drops the mic and freezes. He makes a feeble attempt at a juke move before falling down to one knee and grabbing his back in pain. A second guard slides into the ring, and the two guards apprehend Rudy. They struggle to get him out of the ring, eventually bringing him back down to the mat and rolling him out under the bottom rope as the crowd cheers. A group of guards escort Rudy up the ramp while he continues to shout something about conspiracies.

Adam Allocco vs. Crystal Zdunich

SCW Television Championship

Phillips: "The following contest is scheduled for onefall, has a fifteen minute time limit, and is for the SCW Television Championship!"

I am flesh and I am bone

Rise up, ting ting, like glitter and gold

I’ve got fire in my soul

Rise up, ting ting, like glitter

Like glitter and gold

Like glitter

Strobe lights flash around the entrance set to match the beat of “Glitter & Gold” by Barns Courtney. Out comes Bison Jones steps out from behind the curtains. Bison Jones jogs in place as Adam Allocco steps out behind him, patting Big Bad on his back. He poses at the top of the ramp, flexing his pectorals and then rolling his defined shoulders. Adam steps in front of him and poses, imitating Bison as best as he could. All while this dick measuring contest is going on, Anastasia Smirnov comes strutting out, and with waving arms, presents the Golden Boys to the crowd. Adam soaks in the boos while Bison noticeably mouths something to his boss. The trio begin their walk down the ramp. 

Phillips: “Introducing first, the challenger, accompanied by 'Big Bad' Bison Jones and Anastasia Smirnov, from Rochester, New York, he is Wrestling's Enlightenment, Adam Allocco!”

Sharper: "After a big win against Doom & Groove last week, our Golden Boys will try and keep the momentum going."

Knots: "Finally back on track with a win, but now, looking to make the Golden Boys just a bit more golden."

Bison and Anastasia stay ringside as Adam slides in underneath the bottom rope. Adam runs to the nearest corner and hops up on the second rope, posing for the crowd. Adam notices Anastasia not doing anything, mouths something to her that makes her start clapping with a forced smile as Bison watches on, looking unamused. Adam hops down from the second rope. As the song begins to fade away, Adam tries to take the referee aside to dispense with a few words of guidance before clapping his hand and hopping back to his corner. 

The arena fades to black as the screen lights up and we are treated to an old school movie countdown image.

5

4

3

2

1

THE SILVER SCREEN QUEEN IS HERE!!!!

"I’m Coming Out" by Diana Ross begins to blast all across the speakers and as that happens we are able to see Crystal Zdunich emerging through the backstage curtain, the SCW Television Championship belt draped over her shoulder. The crowd cheers. After a moment of posing, Crystal is joined by a woman on stage. Crystal smiles at her companion as her group of paparazzi gather up in front of the ring and they snag photos of Crystal. After the paparazzi disperse, the two begin their walk down the ramp. 

Phillips: "And his opponent, accompanied by Diamond Caldwell, from Los Angeles, California, she is The Silver Screen Queen and the SCW Television Champion, Crystal Zdunich!"

Sharper: "And Crystal, fresh off dropping Lexy Chapel, appears to have a new manager."

Knots: "Haven't heard much about her, but I do know that she has a vast athletic background, so if it boils down to another fight between managers like it did last week, then Diamond's more equipped than Lexy in that department!" 

Crystal then runs up the steps where she walks towards the middle of the apron while Diamond takes her place at ringside. Crystal blows kisses out to the crowd before dropping into a split entering the ring. She pops back up doing a hair flip as she goes to her corner. She hands her belt over to the official.

Sharper: "It's also worth noting the change in attitude from Crystal in the last few weeks. She's become more focused in the ring, less worried about taunting or her surrounding circumstances, and she's got some gold because of it."

The bell sounds as Crystal and Adam meet each other in the middle of the ring. Adam puts his hand up, offering a test of strength. Crystal shakes her head, but eventually obliges, putting her hand up as well. The two lock hands and Adam suddenly knees Crystal in the gut. The crowd boos. Adam quickly drops Crystal down into a small package.

1!

2!

Crystal breaks free and quickly gets up, Adam right behind her. Crystal steps up on Adam and drills him with an enzuigiri. The crowd roars as Adam falls to the mat. Crystal quickly crawls forward for the cover.

1!

Adam kicks out just before two. Crystal stays on Adam as he rolls over, catching him in a crossface. Adam scrapes at her hand, breaking the hold, but Crystal quickly shifts to Adam's legs, flawlessly transitioning into a kneebar. Adam manages to turn over and break the hold quickly. Crystal gets up and waits for Adam, who lags just behind her. He gets to hit feet and Crystal runs forward, going for a clothesline. Adam ducks it and reaches back to hook Crystal's arms before falling forward into a backslide pin.

1!

2!

Crystal kicks out and rolls back to her feet quickly. She goes for another enzuigiri, but Adam ducks it. Crystal falls to the mat. She shoots back up, but Adam catches her from behind with a chop block, sending her back to the mat. Adam gets back to his feet and lays in a few vicious stomps to Crystal's right ankle. Crystal scoots away to avoid further damage, but Adam catches her by the leg and drags her into the middle of the ring before applying an ankle lock.

Sharper: "Some quick back-and-forth here, but now Adam's caught Zdunich in the submission."

Knots: "Adam deciding to target the leg now after that chop block. A lot of Crystal's offense is based around her legs, whether it be using them as weapons or as a base, so this anke lock could be big!"

Crystal basically walks on her hands to get to the ropes, but as she reaches out, Adam drags her right back, shaking his head while cackling. He suddenly drops down and applies a grapevine. The crowd buzzes as Crystal screams in pain.

Sharper: "Nowhere to go for Zdunich now!"

Knots: "We might have a new TV Champion, and fast!"

Crystal wiggles around and manages to turn onto her side, but Adam keeps the hold locked in. Crystal curls up as much as she can before reaching out towards Adam, clawing at his back. Adam yelps loudly as Crystal continues to scratch and claw. Adam eventually releases the hold and quickly gets up, prancing around the ring while wincing and holding his back.

Sharper: "Zdunich, though, using her nails as a weapon, escaping the hold!"

Knots: "Damage is done, though. Gonna have to figure out how to take Adam down without any of her typical offense."

Diamond gives Crystal some words of encouragement as Crystal pulls herself towards the ropes. The crowd boos as we see Lexy Chapel making her way down the ramp.

Sharper: “What’s this now?”

Knots: “Looks like Lexy forgot she got canned last week!”

Lexy nonchalantly takes her place behind Bison and Anastasia, who are focused on the action going on inside of the ring, oblivious to Lexy joining them. Meanwhile, Adam brings Crystal up and hooks her for a suplex. He hoists her up, hooking her leg on the way up, planting her with a fisherman’s suplex. Adam twists his hips and gets back to his feet, keeping Crystal hooked. Again, he drops her with a fisherman’s suplex. Once more, he twists, bringing her up before planting her a third time with a fisherman’s suplex, this time bridging up into a pin.

1!

2!

Crystal breaks free and rolls onto her stomach, nursing her leg. Adam slaps the mat in frustration.

Sharper: “Trifecta Climaxa there, and even though Zdunich got out of it, you can see she’s still struggling in there.”

Adam picks Crystal up by the hair. He grabs the injured leg before dropping Crystal back down with a dragon screw. Lexy suddenly bursts out into a celebratory shriek, startling Bison and Anastasia, who didn’t even realize she was standing there. Bison just stares at Lexy, but Anastasia glares at her. Lexy backs up a bit as Anastasia and Bison move closer to her. Adam gets up and walks towards the ropes, leaning over towards the scene.

Adam: “Hey, the more the merrier!”

Bison: “You kiddin’ me, man?”

Bison shakes his head and lays off Lexy while Anastasia continues to glare. Lexy puts her hands up innocently before seeing Crystal rise inside the ring.

Lexy: “Look out!”

Crystal rolls up Adam with a schoolboy.

1!

2!

Adam kicks out. Crystal gets up a bit faster than Adam and runs at him before leaping up, hooking his head. She twists around and takes him down with a tornado DDT. The crowd roars.

Sharper: "Crystal now, fighting back!"

Knots: "Finding a way to get it done without one leg!"

Crystal clutches at her leg while crawling backwards into a cover. Lexy boos loudly on the outside.

1!

2!

Adam kicks out and brings Crystal back into a crucifix pin. Lexy cheers loudly on the outside.

1!

2!

Crystal breaks free and rolls through back to her feet. Again, she's up before Adam, and she grabs his head before twisting down with a neckbreaker. She throws her arm over Adam.

1!

2!

Adam rolls a shoulder up right after two.

Sharper: "She's trying everything she can to get a quick pin here."

Knots: "She's desperate to finish this, and for good reason!"

Crystal limps up and looks down angrily at Adam. She waits for Adam to stir before grabbing him, once again hooking the head.

Sharper: "And Crystal might be looking for The Make Over, but has she weakened Adam enough?!"

Lexy shrieks and slides into the ring. Crystal looks back at her as Lexy stands up, looking like she regrets entering the ring somewhat. Crystal drops Adam to the mat and begins to limp towards Lexy.

Sharper: "What the hell is Lexy Chapel doing?!"

Lexy suddenly runs forward and leaps up, flying forward with maybe the worst diving crossbody anybody has ever seen. Crystal side steps it, buckling a bit on the bad leg, but catching herself on the ropes a Lexy crashes and burns.

Knots: "Oh, and, uh… what a counter?"

Lexy looks up a bit dazed and sees Crystal limping at her. Crystal reaches forward, but Lexy rolls out of the ring, looking back triumphantly at Crystal.

Lexy: "Ha!"

Lexy nods at Bison and Anastasia on the other side of the ring as she backs up to create some more space between her and Crystal. However, she backs right up into Diamond Caldwell. Lexy slowly turns to face her and apparently freezes in fear. She breaks out of the trance and quickly books it around the ring, making her way up the ramp. Diamond smirks and begins running after her, chasing her all the way up the ramp.

Sharper: "And Lexy's in trouble!"

Knots: "You think she'd learn how dangerous ringside is after being attacked weeks in a row, but I guess she's not as smart as she thinks she is."

Lexy and Diamond disappear behind the curtain as Crystal now faces the ramp having watched the chaos unfold. Almost out of nowhere, Adam hits a stiff kick to Crystal's bad leg from behind.

Sharper: "But Adam, he's back up!"

Knots: "Taking advantage of another Lexy distraction!"

Crystal buckles, keeping herself held up on the ropes. Adam takes a step back before lunging forward, drilling Crystal in the back of the head with a superkick. The crowd ohs before booing as Crystal collapses to the mat, completely limp.

Sharper: "Enlightenment! Damn it!"

Adam falls to the mat and rolls Crystal away from the ropes before hooking both her legs with authority.

1!

2!

3!

The bell sounds as "Glitter & Gold" plays. The crowd boos.

Phillips: "Here is your winner, via pinfall, and NEW SCW Television Champion, Adam Allocco!"

Adam shoots back to his feet and throws his arms into the air with a huge smile on his face. Bison slides into the ring as Anastasia climbs up the steel steps before entering the ring.

Sharper: "Lexy Chapel has cost Crystal another damn match! She's not even her manager anymore, but she's still finding a way to stick her nose into Crystal's business!"

Knots: "Her reign ends after just a week, but let's not bury the lede here. Adam Allocco is our new TV Champion! Golden Boys with the gold!"

The referee slides in with the belt and hands it to Adam, who rips it away from the referee before throwing it into the air and displaying it proudly. He walks over to the ropes and gets the attention of a nearby camera man. We get a close up of Adam's smiling face as he tries to force a few tears out.

Adam: "This is for you, Ali! It's for you, my boy! Daddy did it!"

Sharper: "Oh, for the love of God."

Crystal rolls out of the ring and takes a seat against the ring. She looks up at the ramp in disappointment, just shaking her head. Inside the ring, Adam instructs Bison to lift him up on his shoulders while also telling Anastasia to keep clapping. Bison shakes his head in response, which seemingly offends Adam. Adam takes matters into his own hands and jumps up on Bison's back, trying his best to climb up his shoulders while holding the belt into the air and cackling.

COMMERCIALS

Breakdown returns as we see Chris Cannon with Lucas Knight in one of the locker rooms. Asher Hayes enters the locker room with Cid and Asher looks around before seeing the SCW World Tag Team Champions and the World Champion.

Asher: “Hey, Chris…look, finally found you. Saw what happened. Sorry to hear it. I saw it was at your place.”

Chris: “Yeah…she was staying at my place. Should’ve been safe.”

Asher: “Hey, not bad. She’s cute. Good one there. Just I want to make sure you’re still focused on this Sunday. The last thing I want is some exc-“

Chris: “She’s cute? Of course, Asher. I should’ve figured. You still see her and half of the roster as a piece of ass around here. “

Chris gets up.

Asher: “Hey, easy!”

Chris: “No! She gets attacked. You throw that in there and talk about excuses. How about I give you a few excuses now before this Sunday?”

Lucas: “Easy Chris.”

Asher: “I’d love to see you try when I’ve not gone through half the roster!”

Chris: “I’ll oblige right now!”

Asher smirks and taps his chin.

Cid: “Asher. We should go-“

Chris steps forward and Lucas stops him before we see several other wrestlers run into the scene to keep the two teams apart. Cid keeps trying to hold Asher back as Chris and Asher keep yelling at one another.

Sharper: “A tense scene backstage. Chris Cannon clearly thinking about Peyton Rice and Asher setting him off!”

Knots: “Asher isn’t the best at showing the caring side sometimes!”

Sharper: “And his mouth getting him in trouble!”

Breakdown cuts to the ring.

Ronin vs. Sammy Thomas Davies

The SCW’s cameras return to the ring where we already see Sammy Thomas Davis warming up in a corner and his music fading away over the P.A System. Dead center in the ring is Jason Phillips with his mic in hand and million dollar smile.

Phillips: And his opponent… Hailing from Little Tokyo in Los Angeles, California… He weighs in tonight at two-hundred and thirty pounds, making his SCW Debut, he is RONIN!!”

All eyes focus on the stage as a familiar quote from martial arts legend, Bruce Lee speaks over the P.A System…

 “I said empty your mind...be formless, be shapeless...like water…”

The beat of “Shaolin Style Hip Hop instrumental” kicks in as Ronin comes out in a high knee jog before stopping at the top of the entrance.

Sharper: “Welcome back everyone as you can see we have Sammy Thomas Davis in the ring and his opponent Ronin Is making their debut tonight.”

Knots: “Good old Sammy the welcome wagon of SCW. Not much known about this guy Ronin, but one thing for sure is he can’t overlook Sammy despite his reputation.”

He looks in both directions before tossing his black fedora hat out into the crowd revealing the white bald look at the top of his head from the mask. He rips his black trench coat open and off of him immediately tossing that into the crowd as well. A black gi with a red belt is revealed as he walks down the ramp slapping any fans hand who sticks their hand out. As he gets to the bottom of the ramp he proceeds to run and slide into the ring. He jumps onto the nearest right top turnbuckle and flexes to the crowd before hopping down and walking to his corner.

Sharper: “The crowd unsure of Ronin, but those fans in the crowd enjoyed the free gifts I’m sure.”

Knots: “What fan does love a good freebie?”

The bell sounds and Sammy immediately charges across at Ronin who side steps him as Sammy looked for a leaping forearm smash but crashed into the corner instead to an oooh from the crowd.  He winces before feeling Ronin grab hold of him and lift him up and hitting  a Back Body Drop into the canvas. Ronin quickly covers.

1… KICK OUT BY SAMMY!

Sammy rolls away as Ronin leaps to his feet, Davis gets to his next and charges at Ronin for a clothesline attempt but another side step followed up with a side kick to the gut of Tommy takes him by surprise. Sammy holds his stomach and turns only to get caught with Superkick from out of nowhere knocking him down to the canvas again. Ronin however drags Sammy closer to a corner and starts to the top turnbuckle as the SCW crowd begins to buzz with excitement.  Ronin reaches the top and looks down before steadying himself and looking for the Moonsault Leg Drop however Sammy rolls out of the way towards the corner, but Ronin catches that and lands on his feet just about. STD now up takes Ronin down with a clothesline.

Sharper: “Sammy had been looking for that in this early going on and finally got to it hit, a big gamble from the debutant but you can’t have high risk without high reward.”

Knots: “You can’t, if he had hit that it moonsault into a leg drop he’s known for it would have been it.”

Sammy pulls Ronin up and hits a European Uppercut, and then one more forcing him into the nearby corner. With an arm, Sammy sends Ronin across the ring with an Irish whip, however Ronin blocks it by putting a boot up on the middle corner. Sammy runs at Ronin only to get caught with a back elbow, the masked man spinning around and driving another kick into the gut of Sammy and then another and another, each one seemingly stiffer than the last with the final one forcing Sammy to drop to his knees again.

Sharper: “Those kicks from Ronin leaving their mark tonight.”

Knots: “We’ve seen them used to great effect in the past, Ronin not the one with lethal kicks. Christy Matthews comes to mind there.”

Grabbing hold of Sammy’s head Ronin fires off a forearm shot to the face of Davis, he throws another but Sammy blocks it before getting to his feet and looking for a forearm shot of his own. Ronin blocks and kicks him in the gut once again doubling him over. However now Ronin backs up and quickly runs and drives a knee into the face of Sammy knocking him to the canvas. The crowd oohs as Ronin looks down at Sammy before dropping to his knees and covering.

1…

2…

3!!

The bell sounds and immediately Ronin gets back to his feet as “Shaolin Style Hip Hop instrumental” hits over the P.A System, some of the crowd cheering him as his arm is raised by the official.

Knots: “That knee was all which was needed there from Ronin in the end, Ronin making quick work of Sammy Thomas Davis tonight.”

Sharper: “Hell of an introduction to SCW, the roster no doubt taking notes, this one could be one to watch for sure.”

Ronin now exits the ring and the official checks on Sammy as the cameras focus on Ronin who now walks up the ramp to go backstage.

Backstage, Crystal Zdunich looks quite unhappy as Jaina Lancaster stands with her. Diamond stands behind Zdunich.

Jaina: “I’m here with Crystal Zdunich. You just lost the Television Championship thanks to Lext Chapel-“

Crystal: “Yeah, thanks to someone who can’t understand what happens when someone realized they’re just leeching off you. You couldn’t handle that I had my own success and so you had to snatch it away. Too bad you forgot one thing Lexy. I’ve got more confidence than ever. I may have lost SCW gold after one week and trust me, that does NOT sit well. Especially to someone like Adam, but I’m not going to let it happen again. And since you’re such a great manager, let’s see if you can get this simply enough. Autumn Valentine has been looking for airtime. You can’t seem to help her, instead focusing on Ace. So I’ll do HER a favour. Come out with her, come to Retribution, and I’ll show you that you’re not as good as you think you are!”

The crowd roars.

Crystal: “And then after…I’m coming for some more SCW gold!”

The crowd cheers some more as Diamond smiles and Crystal walks off. The scene cuts away.

Backstage, Owen Cruze can be seen backstage in one of the locker room, minding to himself, as he moves a few items around in his area before Jessica Winters knocks on the door. Owen ignores her as Jessica steps in.

Jessica: “Owen?”

Owen continues to ignore her as Jessica walks forward.

Jessica: “Owen? Can I get a word?”

Owen stops and looks down.

Owen: “Is it about Peyton?”

Jessica: “Yes.”

Owen looks up and then to her.

Owen: “And why would I have something to say about that. Yeah, she’s a friend…and…”

Owen stops himself. He then sighs.

Owen: “Minerva was removed from the premises.”

Jessica: “Yes?”

Owen: “Suspended? Fired?”

Jessica: “I don’t know. Sasha’s not announced anything.”

Owen: “Par for the course. Just…”

Jessica: “Nothing more you want to say.”

Owen: “What is there to say? This crap happens all the time and nothing stops it. NOTHING…and now cowards running around and doing it too…having to….”

Owen stops.

Owen: “I just hope Peyton’s going to recover fully. For her sake.”

Owen looks up.

Owen: “That’s my statement.”

Jessica: “Thank you Owen…I’ll leave you alone.”

Owen looks down and shakes his head as Jessica leaves.

COMMERCIALS

Breakdown returns as we see David Helms walking through the hallway with some purpose. He scans at the doors he walks past before going over to one of the doors and opening it up. He then walks in and we see Dylan Howell in the room. He just looks at David, sharing a brief nod with him before David steps over to Konrad Raab who is taking a sip of water. David just walks right up to him and then smacks him across the face. The crowd ohs and Konrad nearly falls over and down to the floor, dropping the water too. He then looks up.

Raab: “David, what-“

David: “I hope you’re happy. You’ve been enabling her and now she’s gone and potentially ended Peyton’s career!”

Raab: “Wait….what…”

Dylan looks over.

Dylan: “He’s not seen it.”

David: “Ask your girlfriend what she did. Watch the show…”

David steps back.

David: “You better take a look in the mirror and decide who you are. The person who sides with that because what? The sex is good…Or the person who actually is a good person. I specifically named for the Scaffold Scramble. The other….well, I’ll…”

David shakes his head and walks off. Konrad looks up a bit stunned as the scene cuts away.

We cut to a panning shot of the crowd in the Simmons Bank Arena.

Sharper: “A wild night so far here on Breakdown. Much more to come.”

Knots: “That’s one way to put it. Asher Hayes quickly getting in Chris Cannon’s face. But he has to worry about Tommy Valentine in just a little while and with no holds barred.”

Sharper: “Asher Hayes may have gotten ahead of himself. Vengeance will face the Psychonauts a massive tag match here. A team that looked to establish themselves as the future. Vengeance meanwhile returning to the division, looking to reset themselves.”

Knots: “Is that even possible with whatever Kim is doing?”

Sharper: “That’s a fair point but…”

Cutting to the floor by the stage, cameras notice a man dressed fully in black, walking over to the rampway. He steps up onto the ramp and the crowd starts to boo loudly. The man is Chad Evans.

Sharper: “…she has a couple of thing she always focused on and-“

Knots: “Sharper! Look!”

Sharper: “Is that….that’s Chad Evans! Chad Evans here, a week after he attacked Cid Turner, punching him in the spine. As if that World Championship match needed more narratives!”

Knots: “Chad Evans returns after weeks of opting for the shadows. Guess they weren’t cold enough for him.”

Chad Evans walks over to the ring and walks up the steel steps. He steps into the ring. The crowd continues to boo as Chad Evans walks over to the corner, just extending his hand. Phillips walks over handing him a microphone. Chad takes and walks over to the middle of the ring. He looks around as the crowd boos.

Chad: “This moment is not for any of you in this arena. Be lucky that you imbeciles even have SCW willing to gratify you with their mere presence. The sheer stupidity I am suffering through is making this more troublesome than its worth.”

Chad pauses as the crowd boos loudly. An “Asshole!” chant begins as Chad looks down, intentionally ignoring the crowd. He then takes a deep breath and looks at the camera.

Chad: “Cid…you’re backstage, probably thinking your friend made the right choice last week. Just before he faces someone who can end it all. Maybe you think he has a chance to win the World Title. Never mind that he’s just as broken down as you….but come to the TV…listen to me.”

The scene cuts to show Cid Turner in one of the locker rooms, gulping as he steps up to the television. Several others step up around Cid, causing him to look around. Back in the ring, Chad continues.

Chad: “You still believe you even should be in this ring and the fact that this company is willing to put you not only in a World Tag Team Championship match…but I may have to hear the words Cid Turner, World Champion…in 2021….”

Chad takes a deep breath in annoyance.

Sharper: “This is all about jealousy…that’s all!”

Chad: “Cid…as I showed you last week, you’re one good shot from falling apart in this ring. Asher too…and I guess I have to do the one thing I didn’t want to. I shouldn’t have to but it’s the only way you’ll understand you are better off at home instead of humiliating what YOU were.”

The crowd boos. Cid keeps watching.

Chad: “So you have decision Cid…I had hoped that you’d get the hint last month, but here we are. I will come out of retirement and personally take you back there with me at Retribution…I will face you one on one, Cid…”

The crowd roars.

Chad: “Before you attempt to help Asher reach his ill-conceived dream as he holds onto his past. But if helping your friend is so importance. I mean since he supports you…as pathetic as that is. I was the only one who supported you and will tell you what YOU need to accept…If you don’t accept my challenge, then I will guarantee that neither you or Asher will walk out holding gold. Think Asher will understand that?”

Chad brings the microphone down as the crowd boos. Chad then turns and tosses the title toward Phillips. He calmly walks out of the ring, stepping through the ropes, the sound of the crowd booing all around him.

Sharper: “Chad Evans actually challenging Cid Turner.”

Knots: “So he’s actually going to be there this time?”

Sharper: “One way or another. Either Cid Turner agrees to the challenge, knowing full well Chad wants to take him out, all before he’s supposed to team with Asher Hayes to challenge for two titles…or Chad Evans will ruin the title match anyways!”

Knots: “Now I think that’s pathetic, but are you going to doubt God?”

Chad Evans continues the slow walk to the back. The scene cuts backstage as we see Cid Turner looking around and then seeing the people around him. He turns, backing into the TV. He turns away and then turns and looks around.

Cid: “Asher…where’s…”

Cid turns and heads out of the room, storming out of it. The camera follows him as he continues down the hallway, starting to pick up speed, running down the hallway. The camera follows.

Sharper: “Cid Turner, almost, trying to come to terms with the threat.”

Knots: “Asher Hayes is supposed to face Tommy Valentine in moments.”

Sharper: “You don’t think he’s by the entrance? Thinking Chad may attack him?”

Knots: “I don’t know, but he’s running down the hallway.”

Cid continues to run down the hallway and then he stops, sliding a bit. He then looks a bit relieved as he runs over to Asher Hayes, who is seemingly getting into the mindset of his match, spinning him around, while he’s in his entrance attire and gear.

Asher: “Cid! Whoa! Relax.”

Cid: “Did you hear him?!”

Asher:” Who? What?”

Cid: “Chad…he just challenged me…”

Asher: “He’s just screwing with you, man.”

Cid: “I thought maybe he’d try to get you…but he’s going to one way…you’ve been the only one looking out for me. And….”

Asher: “Easy, man. Hold up. You don’t need to have another breakdown here. It’s Chad. He’s screwing with you. You can shove the tag titles in his face this Sunday!”

Cid: “Not if I don’t beat him…or…”

Asher: “Wait, for Retribution?”

Asher chuckles.

Asher: “Ignore him….but I gotta go. Gotta kick Tommy’s ass. Finish that little holdover. Just chill…”

Cid: “But! Wait!”

Asher continues to head off. Cid looks down as the camera sweeps around to catch his face.

Cid: “I have to face him or he’ll screw everything up…I have to beat him….I have to….It’s the best chance to see you as champion…as a thank you for everything…”

Cid looks around and then turns and heads off in the opposite direction as the scene fades to black.

COMMERCIALS

Asher Hayes vs. Tommy Valentine

Underground Rules

The arena's lights cut out completely, plunging the whole room into darkness for several seconds before the screens light up to display four words.

HEART FILLED WITH HATE

The screens show static for a few seconds before going dark once more. The black screen starts to pulse now like a heartbeat and on each pulse that reverberates round the arena, a shot of Thomas in various poses is shown before reverting to the words on screen until the next pulse that sounds like a bass drum beat with increasing volume until a final shot of him holding the SCW Title aloft after winning the match at Taking Hold Of The Flame is Shown and remains until two green fireworks shoot from the rafters and explode on the ramp. The explosion drifts across the ramp before the beginning chords to "Cut The Cord" by Shinedown, hits. The last word of the verse hits before a shadowed figure can be seen standing in front of the curtain at the top of the ramp.

"FREE-DOM LALALALA FREE-DOM FOLLOW ME!"

As the last word echoes, the lights start to strobe again briefly as the song reverberates throughout the arena now, causing the fans to start jeering, the heat almost palpable in the air.

The lights finally flicker back on and Thomas Valentine can now be seen on top of the arena's ramp as he looks out into the audience that are now booing loudly, chanting obscenities in some cases. Kandis then walks out and joins him at his side.

Phillips: “Introducing first.... currently residing in Santa Barbara, California and being accompanies by Kandis.... Tommy Valentine!”

Thomas stops and smiles a little before spinning around away from the fans and holding his arms outwards with his palms upwards, he then stops and then shakes his head before smirking and shrugging. The smirk turns to a full on grin as he grabs Kandis' face and gives her a kiss. Fireworks then shoot out at the top of the ramp in a burst before Thomas starts walking down to the ring, Kandis at his side. As he walks past the barrier he looks out into the crowds and goes to high five a few fans and moves his hand at the last second, instead running it through his hair and chuckling before moving on down the ramp, the smirk still on his face before he slides underneath the ropes and immediately runs to the corner and climbs the turnbuckle, simply nodding before looking at all the fans in the crowd with undisguised disgust. Kandis takes her place near the corner as Thomas leans back into the turnbuckles awaiting his opponent, the smirk gone and replaced by intense focus.

Sharper: “Tommy Valentine looking for all intends and purposes as if he's ready for war here tonight. Underground Rules. Girlfriend Kandis in his corner.”

Knots: “Notably not in his corner... the enforcer or whatever you want to call him, Olaf Erlandsson. Wonder what that's about?”

Sharper: “Does it matter? It's one less person to get in Asher Hayes way.”

The arena lights dim down, as the opening riffs of "Awake" by Godsmack echo throughout the arena. At the 26 second mark, the name "Asher Hayes" blares through the sound system. As the arena lights return to normal, Asher appears on the stage, wearing a long leather jacket and sunglasses.

Phillips: “And his opponent... from Chicago, Illinois, he is Asher Hayes!”

“Wait another minute
Can't you see what this pain has fucking done to me
I'm alive and still kickin'
What you see I can't see and maybe
You'll think before you speak”

He makes his way down the ramp as the reaction of the crowd rain down upon him. He walks up the ring steps and climbs to the top turnbuckle, lifting both fists into the air, slinging the jacket off his shoulders, simply looking at the crowd before dropping down and running to the opposite side.

“I'm alive for you
I'm awake because of you
I'm alive I told you
I'm awake swallowing you...”

He stands, once again, on the top rope. He tosses his shades out to the crowd, as he looks toward the ceiling, before dropping down, removing his jacket and handing it to the ref.

Sharper: “Asher has a big night ahead of him at Retribution. Not only will he and Cid Turner be facing Suited & Booted... Chris Cannon and Lucas Knight, for the Tag Team Championship, as the winners of the Tag League.... but Chris Cannon, our new World Champion following the Gauntlet match two weeks ago, will be putting that championship on the line as well. If Asher or Cid pins Chris... they become World Champion!”

Knots: “It's a big opportunity for the only person other than Chris Cannon in the gauntlet to eliminate more than one person. Asher Hayes, looking for his first World Championship.”

Sharper: “But tonight he has to get through a former World Champion and if I may say so, one tough SOB in Tommy Valentine. And just look at the disdain they have for each other.”

In the ring, Asher and Tommy stare at each other from their corners, both with angry glares. The bell rings. Both men leave their corner and circle each other warily.

Knots: “Very different start here than the way they kicked off at Last Grasp.”

Sharper: “Perhaps both learned not to jump in headfirst.”

Tommy leans in and takes a swing. Asher jukes back to avoid it, then lunges in to swing back. Tommy ducks it. Asher swings again immediately. Tommy catches his arm though and spins him around into a half-nelson before lifting him up and planting him on the canvas. Tommy tries to stomp him but Asher rolls away. The crowd oohs as Asher kips up, drawing some cheers. We see Kandis looking on, with her arms crossed. Asher runs at Tommy and fakes an uppercut before then nailing him with a knee strike to the ribs. Tommy steps back, holding his side for a second before bouncing off the ropes and nailing Asher with a forearm. He swings for another but Asher catches his arm, and whips him around into the corner. Asher then runs at him, looking for a spear. Tommy spins out of the way at the last second, causing Asher to nearly crash into the ringpost. The crowd oohs as he stops himself from doing so. We see Kandis smirking at the near-miss.

Sharper: “Fairly even back and forth so far, Asher preventing some self-injury there.”

Knots: “Kandis looks like she wanted to see it though. I hear rumors there's a bit of history there.”

Asher spins around to Tommy, who stands there smirking. Tommy then runs at Asher, but Asher gets his boot up before Tommy can do anything, catching Tommy in the gut. Tommy doubles over. Asher jumps and takes him down with a bulldog. He then quickly hops on the second rope and leaps, landing a double foot stomp to Tommy's back. He flips Tommy over and makes a cover.

1!


Tommy shoots his shoulder up, shoving Asher off. Asher starts to get up, but Tommy rolls out of the ring. He shakes his head as he speaks with Kandis.

Sharper: “First pin attempt only getting a one, but Tommy Valentine not happy it was at his expense. He's out of the ring and cooking up God knows what with that woman.”

Knots: “Don't forget folks... Underground Rules. No count out, no DQ, anything goes! Our official is there to count a three or a tap out in that ring, that's it!”

Sharper: “And Tommy knows it. No stranger to this type of match.”

Tommy and Kandis nod at each other, then Tommy starts rummaging around under the ring. Asher sees this and has enough of the stalling. He goes to the apron and looks down, judging for a moment. Kandis sees and tries to get Tommy's attention but can only back up out of the way as Asher jumps and hits a 450 moonsault right on top of Tommy's back! Both men crash to the mats in a tangle. The crowd roars. Kandis looks on in concern as Tommy rolls away, grabbing his back.

Knots: “And here we GO!”

Sharper: “Now things are going to really kick off here. And I have to question the wisdom of Asher Hayes accepting this match, given what he has ahead of him. Tag and World Championship opportunity!”

Knots: “It's a fair question, Tommy Valentine has played spoiler for number one contenders before. Remember the Underground Rules match with David Helms before Rise to Greatness? Tommy won that.”

Sharper: “Indeed I do. It should be noted however that Helms went on to win at Rise to Greatness. Can Asher do the same at Retribution following whatever happens here? He has history with back and leg injuries.”

Kandis helps Tommy up as Asher pulls himself up on the apron, shaking his leg out, almost punctuating Sharper's words. Tommy sees this and waves Kandis off before rushing at Asher, shoulder tackling him into the apron! He then grabs Asher and spins him into the ring steps. They clatter over as Asher crashed into them. Tommy then goes over ad grabs Asher's leg, pulling him away from the now-unstacked steps, and starts to attempt a figure four. Asher kicks at him though and pushes Tommy off before he can get anything really locked in. Tommy backs away, shaking his arm off where Asher kicked him. He goes around the corner of the ring and starts digging under it again. Asher gets to his feet, shakes off his leg some more, then follows. Kandis steps back, a smirk on her face.

Sharper: “What is Tommy doing under the ring, get a camera angle over there!”

Just as the shot changes to show Tommy, Asher turns the corner and Tommy swings with a chair! Asher gets his hands up but the chair catches him full on in the shoulder. The crowd oohs as Asher falls over against the apron. Tommy takes another swing across Asher's back, the shot echoing through the arena even through the boos. Asher grabs his back and goes down to a knee. Tommy throws the chair aside, smirking at his work.

Knots: “It's almost like Tommy couldn't wait to get his hands on a weapon and take Asher down!”

Sharper: “Asher isn't all the way down, though. He's a tough SOB.”

Tommy goes over to Asher and forces him back into the ring, then rolls in behind him. He makes a cover.

1!

2!

Asher kicks out. The crowd cheers. Tommy gets up, frustrated. He rolls out of the ring again. Asher gets to his feet, still holding his back a little, but shakes it off as he also exits the ring. Tommy stands talking to Kandis again, but Asher walks up and grabs his shoulder, spinning him around. Tommy swings wildly out of instinct, catching Asher across the jaw. Asher grabs Tommy and spins him around into the barricade. Not hard enough to break it, so Tommy slumps down against it. Kandis is furious and gets in Asher's face.

Kandis: You don't know when to quit, do you?!

Asher: “Never!”

Kandis goes to punch Asher, but he blocks it, grabbing her arm. Kandis seems stunned and tries to pull her arm away. Asher though keeps his grip. He looks over and sees Tommy getting up, Tommy sees Asher holding Kandis and runs over to break it up. Asher grabs Kandis with his other hand too for leverage and swings her around, crashing her into Tommy! They both go down as the crowd roars.

Sharper: “My God! Asher Hayes just used Kandis as a weapon against her boyfriend!”

Knots: “And these fans aren't sure what to think about that.”

Asher stands over them as we hear a handful of boos from the crowd. Asher then gets up on the ring apron and starts to set himself up for some aerial assault. Kandis though sees this and tells Tommy, and they both move out of range as they get up. Asher steps into the ring and yells out at Tommy.

Asher: “Get in here!”

Tommy looks up, nodding. He then goes to the ring and slides in. Asher barely allows him to get to his feet before they collide in the middle of the ring, all out brawling. Both men throw strikes and punches. The crowd roars as Asher seems to be getting the better of Tommy, until Tommy backs up, bounces off the ropes then lands a vicious spinning clothesline. The crowd boos. Tommy walks around with a smirk. We then see Kandis at the apron, yelling at Tommy. He looks at her, and she slides the chair into the ring.

Sharper: “That damn woman, getting involved again! Didn't she learn when Asher threw her into Tommy?”

Knots: “Apparently not. She wants payback for that! Tommy should go for a cover here though, he's wasting time going for the chair.”

Tommy gives Asher a look as he starts to stir, but goes to the ropes and grabs the chair anyway. Kandis backs away from the ring. Tommy turns and raises the chair as Asher is nearly to his feet. Before Asher can turn around, Tommy swings for the fences and catches Asher in the same shoulder as before. The crowd oohs and boos as Tommy then uses the chair edge to dig into Asher's ribs. Tommy then throws the chair to the side and finally goes for a cover.

1!

2!

Asher gets his foot on the bottom rope. Tommy is unsure at first why the official stopped counting, but then he points. Tommy gets up, angry.

Knots: “A rare ring awareness mistake from the veteran, Tommy Valentine should have known better and moved Asher away from the ropes.”

Sharper: “Goes to show you though the grit of Asher Hayes, he had the awareness despite that attack.”

Tommy grabs Asher's leg and pulls him to the center of the ring. He then gives Asher's ribs and chest a few stomps to keep him down, before grabbing the chair and laying it across Asher. He then hurries to the top rope and flies with Force of Nature.... but Asher gets the chair up and swings, practically batting Tommy out of the air! Kandis screams and runs to the apron as Tommy crashes down awkwardly next to Asher. Kandis slides into the ring to check on Tommy as he holds his head where the chair hit him. She then grabs the chair herself, ripping it out of Asher's hands. Asher is still down, but sits up as Kandis takes the chair. She swings and hits his shoulder. Asher goes down sideways. Kandis then does the same as Tommy did, using the chair's edge to strike Asher in the ribs, and his leg for good measure. The crowd boos heavily. The official comes over and grabs the chair before she can swing again. Kandis yanks it away though and starts to swing at the official, but stops herself when he puts his hands up. He takes the chair away from her and tosses it away from her, it lands in the middle of the ring. They argue a bit, until the official points towards the ramp. The crowd roars as Kandis shakes her head no.

Sharper: “Kandis is being ejected! She's had her hands all over this match but our official had enough with those chair strikes!”

Knots. “And Kandis is not happy about it! She was just protecting her man!”

Kandis tries arguing a bit more but exits the ring. She goes towards the ramp but stops a few steps up. The official sees her stop but lets it go, she's apparently far enough away to not do anything. Back in the ring, Tommy has gotten to his feet and Asher is up to a knee, holding his side thanks to Kandis' assault. Tommy sees the chair tossed aside by the official and grabs it. He stalks Asher as he starts to get up. Asher get to his feet and turns. Tommy has the chair in the air and a menacing smirk on his face. Asher waves at him to bring it. Tommy immediately lunges and swings. Asher ducks and spins under and around Tommy. Tommy turns around with the chair up ready to swing again, but Asher nails another dropkick, chair to Tommy's face again! The crowd roars. Tommy goes down, the chair clattering to the side. Asher kicks it away and out of the ring. Tommy sits up, shaking his head clear. Asher doesn't hesitate, he runs the ropes then drills Tommy with Dust to Dust! The crowd roars as Asher makes the cover.

1!

2!

3!

Kandis runs back to the ring as the bell rings. Asher gets up as Tommy holds his head.

Phillips: “Here is your winner, by pinfall.... Asher Hayes!”

The official raises Asher's hand as he looks down at Tommy with disdain. Kandis slides in to check on him.

Sharper: “Asher Hayes with the victory, despite Kandis' attempts to assist Tommy Valentine.”

Knots: “Those chair shots, everywhere! Shoulder, ribs, leg.... Asher survived it and put Tommy away with a well placed knee strike. I gotta ask though... what condition will he be in at Retribution?”

Asher poses for the crowd, then stares daggers at Kandis before exiting the ring. She pays him no mind as she helps Tommy sit up, both looking angry. Asher goes up the ramp and stops halfway, motioning at his waist, then holding up two fingers.

Sharper: “Asher Hayes clearly telling the world he plans on having two belts soon.”

The scene opens up backstage as Blake Mason is backstage with Jaxson Sullivan. They’re talking before Blake motions to Jaxson that he can leave. Jaxson heads off and says something to him. Blake nods and Jaxson heads off as Jaina Lancaster walks over to him.

Blake: “Jaina…”

Jaina: “Blake…I’m here to do an interview. Get your thoughts on both the Scaffold Scramble, but also Holly Adams. But for Retribution…are we going to see you do something well, you should regret?”

Blake: “Piledrive Giovanni? Subtle…Whether I can trust Katya or not…that’s irrelevant right now. All I know is David has gifted me an opportunity to try and get what Giovanni deserves in a variety of ways. Am I going to try?”

Blake looks at the camera.

Blake: “We’ll find out at Retribution. As for Holly, someone needs to remind her that being the loudest doesn’t necessarily help. I have some knowledge of that.”

Jaina: “Really?”

Blake: “Nice talking to you Jaina.”

Jaina: “Thanks…I guess…for the time.”

Blake turns and heads off. Jaina looks to the camera.

Jaina: “Blake Mason to face Holly Adams later tonight.”

Blake then takes out his phone and the cameraman continues to stay on him as Jaina turns and walks off. Blake continues to walk forward before suddenly, the cameraman is knocked down. There’s a scuffle and then the sound of an impact while some pipes falling before the cameraman spins around.

Sharper: “What the hell? Someone just shoving the camera…”

Knots: “This was like what happened with Cain Adams and Blake a few weeks ago!”

The cameraman gets up and turns the camera to Blake who is down on the ground, seemingly unconscious, with his right arm on a storage crate, looking as if he was driven into it. The cameraman puts the camera down and heads over to help as the scene fades to black.

COMMERCIALS

Breakdown returns as Blake Mason is down, holding his head and being checked by the trainer. Jaxson Sullivan is with them as officials are around.

Sullivan: “Blake….what happened?”

Blake: “I…I don’t know. I was attacked from behind. Driven into that…”

Trainer: “Can you tell me where you are?”

Just then, Giovanni Aries walks into the scene, clapping. The crowd boos as Jaxson Sullivan steps over and Giovanni extends his arms.

Giovanni: “Come on! Hit me. Take the shot for him!”

Giovanni cackles as Blake turns and tries to get up, but falls to a knee and then down.

Sullivan: “You? Did you do it?!”

Dean Black walks over.

Giovanni: “Whatever you want to think. Unlike the Lizard Kingdom, no need to fall into absolutes. If it helps you…”

Giovanni cackles. Sullivan bristles as Black steps over.

Black: “Get him out of here.”

Knots: “Was that a confession?”

Sharper: “That was Giovanni screwing with Blake. Either way, someone attacked Blake. Someone from behind and made sure no one knew…just like apparently what happened when Blake may or may not have piledriven Cain Adams a few weeks back.”

Breakdown returns to the ring to see Gavin Taylor talking to Ava St. Claire in the middle of the ring. Two microphones are on the table with a series of duotangs, including one, opened up, folded over, with what appears to a contract. Gavin Taylor’s All-Star Security (A.S.S.) stands in the ring too.

Sharper: “What in the world is this?”

Knots: “Well it’s the All-Star Sharper. You need to start watching the show-“

Sharper: “I know that, Jon! But there’s a table, some microphones. This looks like a contract signing, but where’s Sasha?”

Knots: “I don’t know!”

Gavin then turns and grabs the microphone and clears his throat before stopping and then handing the microphone to Ava St. Claire and motioning to her.

St. Claire: “Ladies and gentlemen, the American Hero, the Uncrowned US Champion, One of the THREE greatest things to come out of Canada, the Next-ecutioner…he is the All-Star, Gavin Taylor!”

The crowd gives a mixed reaction as St. Claire hands the microphone to her client, Gavin Taylor. Gavin takes the microphone and smiles.

Taylor: “Thank you Ava for that wonderful introduction. Next-ecutioner…that’s deserving of a raise. But so too is this. I would like to welcome all of you here in Little Rock for being part of history! That’s right! History!”

The crowd cheers a bit.

Taylor: “See, tonight, you’re going to bear witness to the contract signing for the biggest United States Championship match in SCW HISTORY! The night where I, Gavin Taylor, will earn SCW gold and defeat Xander Valentine!”

The crowd roars.

Taylor: “But this…this is just one part. See, I am pretty amazing, but even I can’t be two people at once. That much amazing would destroy the universe. And that’s why, with the help of Ava here, who’s more than earning her paycheque, we have duotangs with all of the important parts and the most important part of any contract signing…that’s right, the contract! And well, here it is!”

Gavin holds up the duotang in the contract. He places it down.

Taylor: “We have pens! We have everything. We just need our soon-to-be US Champion. Now…uh…Xander…yes…come on-“

Just then, the lights go out and the crowd roars. The feedback over the PA system, as if a jack is plugged into an amplifier rips through the arena. While the noise attracts the attention of the crowd, spotlights, one after another shine down onto the stage. The familiar chords of "The Fade to Black" crackles on the sound system as smoke begins to hover on the stage. A shadow stands behind an illuminated curtain, by this point the crowd already caught up in a frenzy. A few moments pass before Xander Valentine steps out from the back, wearing a hoodie and jeans. Artemis walks out behind him, also wearing casual clothes. They look down at the ring.

Taylor: “…Valentine?”

Taylor coughs, slinking back a bit as Xander heads to the ring. Artemis follows.

Sharper: “Ask and you shall receive, but Gavin Taylor clearly trying to act tougher than he may be.”

Knots: “Well I guess he’s arranged this contract signing.”

Sharper: “Signing for what? What type of contract? What is Gavin getting at?”

Xander Valentine reaches the ring and pulls himself up onto the apron. Gavin’s A.S.S. step up as Gavin stands behind them, joining Ava St. Claire on the opposite side of the ring from Xander. Xander steps into the ring as Artemis walks up the steel steps and enters the ring. He steps forward.

Taylor: “Xander…Xander! Uh…please…the microphone. Welcome to this…contract signing! Yes!”

Xander looks at the table and then grabs the duotang opened up to the contract. He looks at it before looking up at Gavin.

Taylor: “Good man, looking it over. You’re probably wondering about the contents. Just your standard material-“

Xander then grabs the other microphone on the table and holds it up to his mouth.

Xander: “We’ve already signed a contract for the match. What the hell is this?”

Taylor: “Oh…yes…uh…you see, it’s just a little something that my representation, the ALL-STAR of talent representation came up with. It’s a little agreement. Something between you and I for this Sunday.”

Xander: “Get to the point, Gavin!”

Gavin Taylor is a bit flustered by this.

Taylor: “W-well uh….*cough*…you see, it’s just a little contract that says that in the event I injure you, I’ll cover all of the expenses…and not follow you to the hospital after to finish the job….”

Taylor looks away, rushing through the last part.

Taylor: “And the vice-versa for you.”

Xander: “Excuse me?”

Taylor: “It’s to be gentlemanly! Yes…you know what that is. It’s to show you I won’t be a sore winner…”

Taylor closes his eyes, squinting a bit, hoping not to unleash Xander. Xander just looks at him, unimpressed.

Taylor: “….and if I injure you, I won’t attack you in the hospital or on the way there, and I’ll pay your hospital bills….and you agree to the same for me.”

Taylor looks away. Xander looks at Gavin and then throws the duotang down on the table.

Xander: “Gavin…did you hear a word I said last week?”

Taylor: “This is why I felt this was necessary! Do you want the people of Australia to be in mourning for the rest of the year…or my LEGIONS of fans here in Little Rock!”

The crowd roars, before a very mixed reaction follows.

Taylor: “This is so I know in the event you do what you are wanton to do and that is nearly end my career, my career only saved by the fact that I am in PEAK physical condition, and this of course, all after I beat you for the US Championship…that you’re not going to try and force me into surgery as you did Regan Street! Someone who is REALLY good…not as good as me, but STILL!”

Xander looks down and then shakes his head. He then reaches down and in one motion, flips the table over.

Gavin: “Oh God! He’s lost it! SECURITY!”

Gavin’s A.S.S., Karl and Jack Barker, run up and around the table before Xander grabs both by the throat. The crowd roars. Karl and Jack struggle, trying to grab at the arm before Xander hoists both up and chokeslams them down. Gavin turns and holds the ropes open for Ava before Xander steps forward. He then gives up and Ava nearly trips, falling out of the ring, before managing to catch herself as Gavin dives through the ropes, dropping to the floor. He backs up and walks around. He then helps Ava away too. Xander steps up as the crowd cheers.

Sharper: “Double chokeslam on the Barkers!”

Knots: “The A.S.S. dumped on their asses!”

Sharper: “Gavin scrambling out. Touching a raw nerve for Xander Valentine. That situation with Regan Street.”

Knots: “So Xander finding Gavin after the show and taking him out for good still in play?”

Sharper: “Stop it! Gavin Taylor has been worried about the consequences if he wins…he may need to just worry about proving himself against the dominance that is Xander Valentine at Retribution!”

Xander watches Gavin as he heads around the ring with Ava. Gavin looks at Xander and storms off. Xander keeps watching him as the crowd roars before the scene fades to black.

COMMERCIALS

“The Ending” by Papa Roach plays as the Retribution logo comes up on the screen. The crowd roars as we then see a shot of Cid Turner before a shot of Chad Evans and then showing both.

Sharper: “Folks, it’s official. Cid Turner accepting the challenge from Chad Evans!”

Knots: “Weighing the risks and the rewards and I guess this is more important. He does not want to hurt Asher Hayes’ World Title opportunity.”

Sharper: “Especially when Chris Cannon may be in a foul mood after everything else tonight.”

The still remains on the screen for a moment before we cut backstage.

Breakdown returns as Jessica Winters stands with Infamous outside of their locker room.

Jessica: “Welcome back to Breakdown. I’m here with Infamous and I’ll turn to you Syren. It’s been a unique couple of weeks for you. Last week, you struggled in tag action, coming up short. Affected by the Gauntlet. Tonight, though, you face Selena, CHBK, you chose her contract.”

Syren: “He did. And Selena, you wanted to face me. You needed to face me after everything you’ve been through. Last week, I’ll admit, I wasn’t in the right space. I thought I had screwed up, trusting what CHBK and I had planned from the start, but I’ll say it loud and say it proudly…I am going to keep on my plan until Sasha herself goes out to that ring and announces my getting a title shot. THAT is what this is all about for me. And tonight, Selena, you’re a perfect example of someone that would be useful. I know it. I can imagine the debates in the Boardroom. I went to the back of the line when I didn’t show up. How do I know? CHBK has friends in high places. Hence where I’ve been. But Selena, you’re a big fish. A loud, annoying big fish and one that I plan to knock on her ass tonight!”

The crowd boos.

Syren: “See, you have your issues with Ravyn and she can speak to that in a moment, but Selena, David, you’re getting into a fight you know you’re at a disadvantage. NO ONE can match the chemistry Ravyn and I have. And tonight, it may be one on one…but you’re going to find out just how in trouble you are!”

Jessica turns to Ravyn. Ravyn steps up.

Ravyn: “Trust me on that one. We have plenty of ideas of how to show you that you cannot win and David, Selena, I won’t need to dedicate this to Regan this time. This…tonight, and Retribution…it will be for us. Because don’t forget…I still owe you a receipt you will never forget! Quoth the Ravyn, Nevermore!”

The crowd boos as we cut back to the ring.

Vengeance vs. The Psychonauts

The arena’s lights go out with a flick of a switch, then without warning a robotic voice comes over the P.A System uttering one word over and over again, each time it gets faster and faster along with the pitch higher and higher that same word is then spoken one final time with more authority.

.PSYCHONAUTS.
.PSYCHONAUTS.
.PSYCHONAUTS.
.PSYCHONAUTS.
.PSYCHONAUTS.

.PSYCHONAUTS.

The opening to Popstars by KD/A hits over the P.A System next as purple and green spotlights shine down on the center of the stage to show Jordan Majors from behind with her arms outstretched. Kneeling in front of her flexing her arms with a lollipop in her mouth and a cat ear headband is Cookie Dreams who is moving her head to the music. Pyro ignites alongside them bringing the house lights back on, Cookie now standing back to back with Jordan as the pair slowly spin on the spot with their arms folded. Jason Phillips is heard next with the introduction…

Phillips: “Fans, hailing from Chicago, Illinois and the CookieVerse respectively by way of Santa Monica, California… They are the team of Jordan Majors and Cookie Dreams, THEY ARE THE PSYCHONAUTS!!”

The crowd roars as both women turn to face each other and hug before turning to the ramp way and both pointing towards the ring. The BFF’s beginning to walk down towards the ring with a purpose while Cookie mouths some of the lyrics to their theme song. Both women slap hands with some fans along the way before they stop at the bottom of the ramp and smile. Cookie and Jordan approach the apron and leap onto it before turning and sitting on the middle rope looking out at the crowd as they take photos. Spinning on the middle rope both women enter the ring and walk to opposite corners and climb the second rope and pose for the crowd. Cookie flexing like she was a Greek god and Jordan extending her arms like she was Rose at the front of the Titanic with Jack as their music begins to fade out, both women jump down and go to their respective corne.

Knots; I wonder if anyone was has offered to draw them like those French girls?

Sharper: What are you talking about?

Knots: Cookie and Jordan, I am pretty good with the sketch pad….

Shaper: So you are saying you want to draw nude portraits of the Psychonauts?

Knot: Y….No of course not. I got my Kennie she is better any French girl.

Sharper: Yeah good save. Anyway the Psychonauts have their hands full with a team that may be number one contenders for the tag team titles by the time Retribution is in the books.

The opening guitar riff of “Crazy Train” begins to play. Kimberly Williams comes rushing out onto the stage to loud cheers from the audience and chants of “Kimmie’s Gonna Kill You”. Kim rushes from one side of the stage to the other, pumping the audience up. While she is doing this Jessica Lasiewicz slowly emerges onto the stage with a stoic yet intense gaze towards the ring. Kimberly turns to her half-sister and motions to follow her towards the ring. Kimberly charges the ring by herself, despite her encouraging of Jessica. Kimberly slides into the ring from underneath the bottom rope and then waves for The Archangel to join her but Jessica is making her way slowly to the ring. Jessica steps up on the steel steps and then steps over to the middle of the ring apron where she poses once more for the fans to loud cheers. She then steps through the ropes and steps to the center of the ring as the music dies down.

Phillips: Their opponents hailing from Boston Massachusetts…..Kimberly Williams and Jessica Lasiewicz…..they are VENGEANCE!!!!!!

Sharper: Kimberly really taking the Unsactioned Title seriously….

Knots: Lizard.

Sharper: What?

Knots: It’s the Lizard Championship…..After all I am not trying to get my butt stalled or hit with a loaded penguin.

Sharper: Right. Anyway the Lizard Champion.

Knots: Thank you.

Sharper: She isn’t trusting anyone holding the Lizard Championship and electing to keep the title in the corner.

Kimberly places her Lizard Championship under the turnbuckle in Vengeance’s corner as Kimberly and Cookie will start the match. The ref calls for the bell. Kimberly secures her Lizard Championship in the corner before turning and sprinting at Cookie. Cookie takes her up and over with a hip toss. Kimberly jumps back up and sprints at Cookie who takes her down again with a hip toss. Kimberly back up quickly as Cookie meets her with a dropkick to the face. This sends Kimberly to the outside for a second to collect her thoughts.

Sharper: Cookie is able to take advantage of Kimberly’s aggressiveness. She is showing why Jordan and Cookie were just one win away from main eventing Retribution.

Knots: Unfortunately we have a hobo and a sex addict in there place. That was a horrible trade off.

Sharper: A/C Unit proved the last four month how worthy of a number one contender they are.

Meanwhile Kimberly is looking under the ring for something. She disappears under the ring for a minute as the ref begins the ten count. (1) Cookie looks at Jordan confused as what is going on. (2) Jessica now checking under the ring to see what is going on. (3) Finally re-emerges from under the ring with Wasley the penguin in hand.

Knots: OH NO!!!! She has that loaded penguin.

Sharper: This isn’t good for either team.

Kimberly slides in the ring and starts to take a swing at Cookie with Wasley. Cookie ducks the attempt as Kimberly spins around. The referee then quickly takes the penguin away from Kimberly and throws the loaded penguin to the outside.

Kimberly Williams: HEY!!!!! NO ONE TOUCHES WASLEY!!!

Kimberly threatens the referee as Cookie takes the opening and nails Kimberly with a forearm to the back of the head before throwing her in the neutral corner. Cookie then delivers a kick or two to the ribs before Irish whipping Kimberly to the opposite corner. Cookie sprint to the corner and attempts a splash as Kimberly quickly moves out of the way. Cookie eats nothing but the turnbuckle.

Shaper: Kimberly able to move out of the way in the nick of time.

Knots: Luckily Cookie had something on her to cushion the impact of the turnbuckle.

Cookie stumbles backwards after connecting with the turnbuckle. Kimberly takes advantage and takes up down with a release German suplex that sends Cookie into the corner. Kimberly jumps up and follows Cookie into the corner with a hip attack, driving her hip into the face of Cookie. Kimberly begins to stomp on Cookie. Kimberly begins to stomp a mud hole into Cookie as the ref tries to break it up. The ref finally picks Kimberly up and moves her away. Kimberly continues to stomp the air as the ref puts her down. Kimberly looks around not knowing what happened. Kimberly looks at Cookie who is climbing to her feet. Kimberly runs over and knees her in the midsection before grabbing by the hair and dragging Cookie to Vengeance’s corner. Kimberly throws Cookie in the corner delivers a forearm shot. Kimberly holds Cookie in place before tagging in Jessica. Jessica and Kimberly then pull Cookie out from the corner before delivering a double suplex.

Sharper: After some early miscues from Kimberly being well uh out of control….

Knots: Crazy you can say it.

Sharper: Anyway Vengeance has seemingly taken control of the match.

Cookie arches her back in pain as Jessica continues the control. Jessica begins to lay the boots to Cookie as Cookie flips to her stomach. Jessica now drives her knee in the small of back of Cookie. She give Cookie repeated shots to the back with her knee before having the knee remain in her back as she grabs Cookie’s head and legs. Jessica rocks back and applies a bow and arrow submission to Cookie. The ref checks on Cookie who screams in pain but doesn’t give up. Finally Jordan comes in and stomps on Jessica causing the hold to break. The ref sends Jordan back to the corner as Jessica continues the assault on Cookie’s lower back. This time Jessica picks up Cookie and delivers a backbreaker as quickly drops down and hooks the leg for a pinning combination.

1………

2……..

Cookie kicks out as Jessica pulls Cookie to her feet. Cookie starts to fight back with forearms to the side of Jessica’s face. Cookie hits her again and again as she has Jessica reeling. Cookie tries another forearm as Jessica cuts her off with a knee to midsection followed by one more for good measure. Jessica then double under hooks Cookies’ arms before hitting a double underhook suplex as she floats over.

1……….

2…….

Cookie is able to shoot her should up before the three count.

Sharper: Cookie still showing she has fight left.

Knots: What is he doing here?

We see Bison Jones walks out from the back looking annoyed at something. He looks at the ring and back at the ring. Meanwhile in the ring Jessica has Cookie in the corner as she delivers a couple back elbows before sprinting to the opposite corner as she comes charging at Cookie as Jessica goes for a splash, Cookie lifts bother her knees up as Jessica crashes into Cookies knees knocking the breath out of her. Both women fall to the mat.

Sharper: Cookie finally able to stop the onslaught with a timely pair of knees as Bison continues to look on from the ramp. He keeps look toward the entrance though seemingly more annoyed each time. By the way where is Adam?

Knots: Martini run? Holly Adams need a new fresh coat of nail polish. Keenie is partial to matte blue.

Sharper: Right….

In the ring Cookie having taken the brunt of Vengeance’s offense now crawls toward Jordan. Jessica climbs to her feet.

Sharper: Cookie trying to make a tag….Meanwhile we know who Bison has been waiting on.

Finally from the back walks Anastasia Smirnov to join Bison Jones. This gets the attention of Kimberly who is yelling at them.

Kimberly Williams: I AM THE LIZARD CHAMPION!!!! ALL HAIL THE LIZARD KING!!!!!

In the ring Cookie is almost to Jordan as Jessica grabs the leg of Cookie. Cookie climbs to her feet hopping on one leg, Cookie hits an enzuigiri out of nowhere. This gives her the chance as the dives and tags in Jordan who comes in like a house of fire. She hits a dropkick to Jessica as Kimberly comes in and is stopped with a kick to the midsection followed by a running bulldog for her troubles.

Sharper: Jordan now taking it to bother Kimberly and Jessica.

While this is happening Anastasia Smirnov and Bison Jones start their way toward the ring with Anastasia pointing at the Lizard Championship. Only for Doom and Groove to run out from the back getting the attention of Bison and Anastasia.

Sharper: I don’t know what Anastasia and Bison had planned but that has changed now. We have three of the four teams in the fatal four for the tag team number one contenders hip. Where is Light Into the Darkness?

Knots: Looking for a light bulb?

Sharper: Are you okay?

Knots: Why?

In the ring Jordan has taken control as she charges at Jessica and takes her down with face buster as she quickly hooks the leg.

1…….

2……..

Kickout by Jessica.

Jordan picks her up and connects with a scoop slammed as she leaves the ring to the apron and connects with a springboard rolling Denton to Jessica.

Sharper: Jordan now in full control.

Meanwhile on the outside Bison and Anastasia are jawing as Doom and Groove as suddenly Anastasia takes a swing at Lyza. Devin now gets in front of Anastasia. Bison now shoves Devin. Tempers start to flare.

Knots: We may have a fatal four way right here.

Jordan in the ring grabs Jessica and sends her in the ropes. Jessica bounces off the ropes and ducks a clothesline from Jordan. Jessica bounces off the ropes as she hangs on to the ropes causing Jordan to mistime a dropkick and fall to the mat. Jordan starts to get back to her feet as Jessica hits a running shining wizard to Jordan.

Sharper: One miscue from Jordan and Jessica has gain the advantage for Vengance.

On the outside Bison nails Devin after Bison has heard enough. Anastasia rakes the eyes of Lyza before jumping onto her back. Kimberly jumps down looking for Wasley as a precaution to anyone attempting to win her Lizard Championship. Jessica now looks at the brawl going on in the aisle way. Bison and Anastasia have the advantage before Lyza throws Anastasia off her back and jumps on top of her delivering lefts and rights. Bison continues the onslaught on Devin before Devin dodges a wild left by Bison and begins to kick the back of the legs of Bison. He gets him down to his knees as finally Dean Black and security come down to separate them.

Sharper: Finally some order being restored as security has separated Doom and Groove and Anastasia and Bison Jones.

Jessica finally turns around after seeing order has been restored only for Jordan to catch her with a jumping cutter out of nowhere.

Sharper: CASH OUT BY JORDAN MAJORS!!!!!

Kimberly is on the outside taunting Anastasia with her Lizard Championship. Jordan hooks the leg.

1………,

Kimberly looks around hearing the count and tries to dive in as Cookie sprints across the ring.

2……….

Cookie connects with a baseball slide.

3!!!!!!!!!!

Sharper: The Psychonauts are able to win it.

Phillips: HERE IS YOUR WINNER VIA PINFALL THE PSYCHONAUTS!!!!!

Jordan rolls off Jessica and stands up as Cookie climbs to her feet. They hug in the ring as Jessica rolls to floor as Kimberly checks on her and the Lizard Championship.

Knots: Any consolation, Kimberly is still your Lizard Champion.

Sharper: Also at Retribution, the Golden Boys and Doom and Groove will not be a distraction.

Backstage, Polly Playtime can be seen rubbing her hands as Jaina Lancaster turns to her.

Jaina: “Jaina Lancaster here with Polly Playtime and Polly, you asked for some time-“

Polly: “Do you like playing games?”

Jaina: “Excuse me?”

Polly: “Do you like playing games?”

Jaina: “Depends?”

Polly: “I love playing games. And earlier today, we saw someone else that likes playing games. We saw that the Big Ass and Jackass Connection like to play games with other peoples’ careers. Well, that’s all well and good, but see, I’m here because as I said, I also like playing games and I played a game. Do you know what that was?”

Jaina: “What?”

Polly: “It’s called, What did Sasha say?”

Jaina: “And what did she say?”

Polly: “Thanks for playing along. She said, why yes Polly, you can face Tommy Valentine at Retribution and start to focus on your own career now that the Tag League is behind you. And trust me, I think it will be great to face a Hall of Famer…one who came up short tonight, but I won’t hold it against him. He was fired up tonight. I hope he’s fired up when he steps into my world and well, whether he likes it or not…it’s going to be GAME OVER for him while I’m just starting!”

Polly smirks and smiles as Breakdown cuts away.

COMMERCIALS

Backstage, Adam Allocco is walking down the hallway, chuckling.

Adam: “Adam, just ahead of everyone-“

Adam stops as La Pequena Luz and Amelia Blythe happen to be a few strides in front of him. Adam looks at them.

Adam: “Time to turn on the charm.”

Adam clears his throat and steps up.

Adam: “Ladies…I hope you saw what Bison and Anastasia are capable of and I know this Sunday, well-“

Adam goes to wrap his arm around Amelia’s shoulder, but she ducks under and both her and La Pequena Luz take him over with a double hip arm wrench into a hip toss. The crowd cheers as Adam rolls over, holding his lower back in pain.

Amelia: “We saw what your team did…we’ll be ready this Sunday.”

Luz nods and the two walk off as the crowd cheers.

Yes Bitch

Yes Bitch

Yes Bitch

SLAY

"W Face," By Kumi Koda kicks in full force around the arena as the stage comes into focus. Holly Adams steps up onto the stage, spinning into place at the top of the ramp. Holly poses with her hand on her hip and her other hand high in the air as she pageants waves to the booing crowd. Christopher Richter steps out behind the curtains and stands there, obviously coming out as protection.

Knots: “It’s Holly Adams, she’s coming out here! Get the censors on standby in the broadcast truck!”

Sharper: “She’s acting like she has a match. We all know she doesn’t. Blake Mason was attacked backstage! The details are sparse but he’s not going to be able to compete tonight as originally planned against Holly.”

Holly starts her walk down to the ring, continuing her pageant wave, with a large smile on her face as the crowd continues to jeer. She stops halfway down the ramp and puts both hands on her chest thanking a fan for their "adoration," for her. She smiles before continuing down the ramp. She walks to the other side of the ramp, pretending to put her hands out to high five and immediately pulls them away and goes back to pageant waving.

Sharper: “Notice how she didn’t come out here alone. Christopher Richter is joining her here.”

Knots: “We all know that people get triggered when Holly tweets, maybe she figures it might happen when she speaks too!”

Sharper: “You mean she finally have to face those she mocks, those she cyberbullies, and face some retribution?”

Knots: “It’s the freedom of speech, Adam! We’re in America!”

As she comes around the corner, she continues onto Phillips, snatching the ring announcer’s microphone. She then climbs the steel steps, struts across the ring apron where Christopher Richter sits down onto the middle rope to allow her easy access to the ring.  Holly starts to sing along with her theme song, looking directly into the camera closest to her. She gives a million-dollar smile before putting her hand on the camera and pushing it away and she gets into the ring.

Holly Adams: “Ladies and gentlemen, the following match is scheduled for one fall, making her spectacular appearance tonight, your winner, Holly Adams!”

The crowd jeers. Holly’s raises her chin high.

Holly Adams: “Oh come on, you didn’t want to see Blake in action tonight anyways! Whoever those masked attackers were, they saved him some heartache. But here I am, gracing you all tonight with my wonderful personality and my delightful charm! You’re welcome!”

 She poses for the cameras, but the crowd boos even louder. Holly Adams ignore their response, though Christopher Richter glares out into the audience.

Sharper: “She’s already giving me a headache, and it seems like I’m not alone!”

Knots: “Brace yourself, she is just starting.”

Sharper: “Oh no!”

Holly Adams: “After all the unfortunate series of events in that Gauntlet match, finally the forces that be, whoever they might be, decided to make amends by giving me a big opportunity at Retribution! I am going to get to be the next challenger to face the Adrenaline Champion, whether it be John Wayne Gacy or Glory Hole, all I have to do is deflate Cookie! And I know, I know, I too am worried about the state of the SCW Adrenaline Championship, all that makeup have been smeared on the belt, but don’t worry, that’s why we have Brittany available to polish it up real nice! After all, only the finest goes around my waist!”

Holly Adams motions around her waists. She nods towards the camera, making sure the camera guy gets in a close up on her slightly swaying hips.

Holly Adams: “What? You all believe I’m being cocky? That I’m looking past Cookie? I assure you I’m not. There’s no looking past Cookie without moving a few steps to the left or to the right. Come on! We all know why she’s called Cookie! She’s doughy! She’s half-baked!”

The crowd boos at the cheap shot.

Sharper: “Is she insinuating that Cookie’s fat? Holly’s nothing more than a high school bully!”

Knots: “I’m happy you don’t understand how to work your phone, Adam. You’ll have a stroke seeing what her and her friends tweet out on there!”

The big screen shows Cookie Dreams, obviously upset at the insults, shaking her head at a monitor. She looks up, determined now, and starts to leave the scene but Jordan Majors holds her back by the shoulder. Jordan shakes her head ‘no’. Holly Adam spins around and waves towards the screen, but the screen cuts out.

Sharper: “Cookie seems to have heard enough but Jordan Majors held her back!”

Knots: “They have a match tonight! She can get baited by Holly cheap tricks!”

Holly Adams: “Come on, you saw her! Think about it! She has zero self-respect! Adonis gave her over to a Baker’s Dozen, and by no means confuse this for kinkshaming the man, but there is something as too much batter! Those are empty calories going to all the wrong places!”

Sharper: “How crude!”

The lights dim as Nickelback’s “Something In Your Mouth” hit’s over the P. A System, the crowd explodes with cheers! All the eyes focus to the stage where various colors of light begin.

Knots: “I guess Jordan failed in keeping her back! Here we go! Cookie’s coming to shut her up!”

Sharper: “This might not be smart, but Cookie is going to stand up for herself!”

Then the crowd response dies suddenly when Anastasia Smirnov, Golden Boys’ associate comes toppling out from the curtains. She has on a white Hooters t-shit on with those bright orange short shorts, but obviously she’s heading big red balloons underneath.  She stumbles back and forth, pretending to be top heavy. She screams, her hands flicking around her face when she sees Holly. She comes running down the ramp with the grace of an unborn doe.

Holly Adams: “Speaking of our company-provided emergency life raft!”

Sharper: “This is too much!”

Knots: “You sound disappointed, Adam! What would your wife think?”

Anastasia stops herself from running into the ring, placing both hands onto the apron. Holly Adams motions to Christopher Richter and he leaves the ring to carefully hold her hand and hep her into the ring.

Holly Adams: “It’s all right, we have a handler for Cookie! I know typically she’s probably used to having a leash at home, but unfortunately, budget cuts. Anyways, Cookie, how are you? Still disappointing your mother by your existence?”

FAKE Cookie: “HAI HOLLY! Um, I good!”

Holly Adams: “Sweetie, you’re drooling. Here let me get that for you!”

Holly Adams takes a handful of the loose white shirt and rubs the corner of Cookie.

Holly Adams: “I don’t know how they could even let you out here without proper adult supervision. Then again, they did let you pass the third grade, so someone definitely dropped the ball.”

FAKE Cookie: “I can so count! One… two… three… um…”

Anastasia spreads out her hand and stops after the middle one. Holly knocks the hand down and pats her on the shoulder.

Holly Adams: “You tried love, you tried. Everyone, give Cookie an around of applause. But I think for your birthday, I’m getting you a bicycle helmet! But let’s not look too far into your future, after all, I did say, I was gonna deflate you at Retribution! Hell, I’ll give the fans a preview!”

Holly Adam suddenly stabs her hand forward, nails first, and one of the balloon pops, giving Anastasia a jump. She holds onto her chest where the mission balloon was. Holly does the other! And Anastasia falls down onto the mat and curling up now in a ball.

Holly Adams: “See we all know that without those 34Duds, you have nothing of value offer to SCW, to the fans. Me, on the other hand! I’m of the upmost talent, class, and charisma. And, as the epitome of blondes, have to dragged down by you. You’ve set us back to the days of Pamela Anderson. Not all of us are bimbos! No, some… some of us are just as intelligent as we are hot, but we have to deal with stereotypes perpetrated by cheap plastic imitations such as yourself!”

Sharper: “This is a mockery. Nothing but the most disrespect towards Cookie, who is a very nice girl!”

Knots: “This is how Holly Adams acts, 24/7! We’re treated by Holly Adams Hour live on TV, but I want her canceled!!”

Sharper: “Holly is in for a rude awakening, like many before her, by dismissing Cookie as a stupid blonde!”

Holly Adams: “Look, don’t cry, Cookie! It’s simply the nature pecking order. At Retribution, I know it’s going to hurt, you’re stepping into the flames after all and you’re going to melt. But once I show you the door, I bet there are still a bunch of imbecile incels on the internet more than willing to subscribe! But alas, we do have to weed our gardens, and as a good company girl, I’m going to pluck you myself pretty up this joint, clip clip, and go on to win my self the Adrenaline Championship belt! And once that happens, everything will be so… beautiful, blonde, perfect!”

Holly Adam drops the microphone. She steps up onto Anastasia’s arm and poses for a moment with pageant waves as "W Face," By Kumi Koda plays.

Sharper: “Holly Adams might be making an enemy out of Cookie! She’s not going to stand by and let herself be mocked, insulted!”

Knots: “Holly Adams doesn’t care about hurt feelings. All she cares about is getting under her opponent’s skin and I bet you the whole point of this display!”

The scene then cuts to the upper decks as the camera pans over to see Shilo Valiant sitting on one of the steps, fans are all around him, some trying to get selfies. Shilo meanwhile is messily eating popcorn, all around the Adrenaline Championship. He then throws some at the camera before leaning in.

Shilo: “Sorry I don’t have a microphone. SCW didn’t provide me with one. They’re still all sad that I have this…”

Shilo holds the Adrenaline Championship up before dusting off some of the popcorn crumbs.

Shilo: “I had to even sneak in here to get to watch the show. Great job by Peyton. Took those pipe shots like a champ.”

Shilo smirks.

Shilo: “Always entertaining. Same for Blake, taking a nap. Not very professional, but then, again, I never was either. But it seems someone wants this…”

Shilo smirks.

Shilo: “Well make sure SCW keeps the doors open at Retribution. Because if I feel like having a laugh…entertaining myself. Maybe showing why I’m a Supreme Champion even though this company conveniently overlooked that….then maybe I’ll show up, Glory. I mean, SCW cares so much about me and my reputation. The good news…I’m the master of my reputation, Glory.”

Shilo smirks.

Shilo: “And right now, it’s focused on one thing….what entertains ME!”

Shilo grabs the popcorn and throws it at the camera again before he gets up and heads up the stairs towards the back as the scene fades to black.

COMMERCIALS

Ace Marshall vs. Aaron Blackbourne

A countdown starts on the big screen in fast progression from five to one before "Adrenalize" by In This Moment begins to play.

"ADRENALIZE ME"

The song cuts out immediately before "The Greatest Love" by Whitney Houston begins playing throughout the arena and the white strobe lights begin going off overhead. The crowd cheers initially but quickly becomes confused. Ace Marshall steps out on stage in a robe, Lexy Chapel walking in behind him. The crowd gives a mixed reaction. Standing on stage, Ace throws his arms out boastfully before turning his back to the crowd taking several steps backwards.

Phillips: "The following contest is scheduled for onefall and has a fifteen minute time limit. Introducing first, accompanied by Lexy Chapel, from Las Vegas, Nevada, he is Ace Marshall!"

Sharper: "Ace Marshall making his way to the ring now, finding himself in between two big matches, the gauntlet two weeks back and his upcoming match at Retribution."

Knots: "And you can bet he loves every minute of the chaos! Now he's brought Lexy Chapel along with him on the ride."

Ace casually strolls down the ramp now loudly singing along to his theme, poorly and seemingly tone deaf. Lexy Chapel claps her hands cheerfully behind him, throwing her arms to her side and pointing them at him like he's on sale. He smiles cheerfully as he jumps up onto the apron before rubbing his boots off at the corner of the apron and stepping in over the top rope. He takes a moment before slowly taking the robe off, turning to face Lexy. She takes it cheerfully under one arm to one side as Ace adjusts his elbow pads, waiting in the corner for his opponent. His music slowly fades.

Knots: "The soothing sounds of Whitney Houston coming to an end, along with the somewhat disturbing sing-along by Ace Marshall."

All of a sudden, the lights go out, prompting a surprised pop from the fans. The tune of “My Name” by From Ashes To New begins, the lyrics starting about eight seconds into the song. White lights slowly begin to envelop the stage as we see that smoke has also begun to engulf it. The Tron also comes to life with clips of Aaron Blackbourne in action, both as himself and as his various demon incarnations, as well as clips of his various artistic endeavors including writing, painting, drawing and digital art. During this, we see a figure standing in the smoke, but that and the lighting make it impossible to tell who the silhouette belongs to. When the song hits the chorus, pyro suddenly goes off on the sides of the stage in sync with the silhouette throwing his arms in the familiar raised and outstretched pose, the smoke clearing almost as if on command to reveal the creative soul himself, causing the fans erupt into cheers. The lights start to come back on, although they're both dimmed and rotating between every color in the spectrum to the beat of the song, as Blackbourne begins making his way down to the ring, happily accepting high fives from the fans with a smile.

Phillips: "And his opponent, from Seattle, Washington, he is Aaron Blackbourne!"

Sharper: "He might have a lot on his mind at the moment, but going against a three-time SCW World Champion, Aaron's gotta focus here."

Knots: "Easier said than done, Adam. You can bet Ace is gonna get in that head of his, too, trying to pick up a second consecutive win against Aaron after their match late last year."

Aaron reaches ringside before suddenly leaping onto the apron and quickly climbing so that he’s got one foot on the top turnbuckle, and in tune with the chorus kicking in a second time he briefly crosses his arms across his chest before throwing them out in the same raised and outstretched pose as before, the lights going out again as white spotlights suddenly come on and converge upon him as he closes his eyes and basks in this moment, also letting the lyrics of the song serve as a reminder of exactly who he is and why he does this. We see Ace faking sleeping in his corner. 

Sharper: "Almost on cue, Ace is already starting some of the mind games."

When the chorus ends, Blackbourne leaps from the top into the ring as the lights completely return to normal, removing his black jacket and setting it into his corner before he begins doing some light warm-ups for the match ahead. Ace peeks one eye open, just to make sure that Aaron sees his taunting. He goes back to fake sleeping. Aaron shakes his head and steps into the middle of the ring and waits for the bell. The referee shrugs and calls for the bell. Ace opens his eyes fully and steps out of the corner with a yawn. He looks back and down at Lexy with a smirk.

Ace: "It's because he's boring! You get it?"

Lexy nods and claps enthusiastically with a smile on her face. Suddenly, Aaron charges forward and hits Ace in the chest with a front dropkick, sending him flying back into the corner. Ace hits hard and slumps down further into the corner while clutching his chest and wincing. 

Sharper: "Aaron with the running dropkick, starting out hot here!"

Knots: "Looking to end things early with the Creative Process!"

Aaron gets up and runs to the opposite corner, bounces off, and charges Ace before launching himself at him in the corner with a double knee smash. He bounces off Ace, using the ropes to easily return to his feet as Ace stumbles out of the corner, crawling towards the ropes. He goes to pull himself up, but Aaron comes from behind and drops him down with a schoolboy. 

1! 

2! 

Ace breaks free and rolls through, straight to his feet at the same time as Aaron. Ace runs forward and hits Aaron with a knee to the gut. Aaron keels over slightly before Ace shoot kicks him in the kneecap. Aaron buckles and falls forward a bit. Ace hooks his head before quickly falling back with a snap DDT. The crowd ohs. Ace rolls Aaron over and hooks the far leg.

1! 

Aaron kicks out right before two. Lexy barks angrily at the official, presumably questioning the count. Ace nods and gives her a thumbs up before getting back to his feet, bringing Aaron up with him. Ace whips Aaron into the corner, running right along after him. Aaron's back hits the corner and Ace jumps up, drilling Aaron in the face with a knee strike. Ace uses the second rope to keep himself up, still holding the head of Aaron. He jumps forward with a release bulldog, driving Aaron into the mat. Ace crawls over and quickly flips Aaron for the cover. 

1!

2! 

Aaron gets a shoulder up. 

Sharper: "Aaron started off strong after the sign of disrespect from his opponent, but since then, it's been all Ace."

Knots: "With everything going on with Peyton Rice and his Perfect Pack friends, you have to wonder if he's missing a step here. I think that normally Aaron would take advantage of a hot start like that." 

Ace gets up and stomps Aaron on the head. Aaron holds his head and rolls away to the ropes. He brings himself up and Ace comes from behind to grab him, but Aaron throws an elbow back, catching Ace in the head. Aaron quickly turns and stays on Ace, blasting him with a European uppercut. He pushes Ace against the rope before hitting him with a knifedge chop. The crowd woos. He does it again, the crowd wooing along. Aaron pushes Ace against the ropes again before whipping him across. Ace comes back and goes for a clothesline, but Aaron ducks it and catches Ace in a sleeper. He keeps it locked in for a few seconds before dropping Ace. 

Sharper: "Sleeper slam from Aaron, finally catching Ace with something again."

Aaron crawls forward on top of Ace for the cover. 

1!

2! 

Ace kicks out right after two, rolling onto his stomach. Aaron gets up and stays in front of Ace, waiting for him to get up. Ace gets to his hands and knees before Aaron slips behind him and yanks him back with a harsh headlock, propping Ace up on his knees. Aaron shifts back around before hitting a stiff shoot kick to Ace's chest. The crowd ohs as Ace grasps at his chest. Aaron rips Ace's arm away and hits another shoot kick to the chest. As Ace grasps at his chest again, Aaron sets up for another kick, but Ace ducks. Aaron hits the ropes and bounces back at Ace just as Ace is looking back up. Aaron jumps, going for Unchained Creativity, but Ace ducks it at the last second. Aaron falls to the mat from the momentum. 

Sharper: "Unchained Creativity from Aaron, he almost ended things out of nowhere!"

Ace shoots up and sets up behind Aaron as Aaron gets to his feet. Aaron turns around right into a throat thrust. He falls against the ropes, holding himself up as the referee checks on him. The crowd boos as Ace does the sign of the cross and breathes a sigh of relief. 

Knots: "Ace, thanking his lucky stars after avoiding disaster there."

Sharper: "Threw a bit of a cheap shot to get back on track, too."

Knots: "Hey, sometimes you gotta throat punch someone."

Ace steps forward but the referee stops him, warning him against the shot to the throat. Ace nods and gives the referee an “OK” sign before quickly blowing by and punching Aaron in the throat again. Aaron falls to the mat, gasping for air as the referee barks at Ace, who just shrugs. Ace falls to the mat and hooks both of Aaron’s legs. The referee reluctantly goes down for the count.

1!

2!

Aaron kicks out. Ace gets up and bends to pick up Aaron, but Lexy shouts from the outside, catching Ace's attention. 

Lexy: "Ace! Do it! Do the thing!" 

Ace: "What?!" 

Lexy: "The LC!"

Ace just blinks in response before dropping Aaron back to the mat. Ace centers himself in the middle of the ring and holds his hands up, shaping an L in one hand and a C in the other. On the camera, it appears backwards. 

Lexy: "No, wrong way!" 

Ace looks back in confusion before realizing what she meant. He corrects it, flashing the LC sign to the camera. The crowd gives a mixed reaction, though mostly boos. Lexy laughs maniacally while clapping excitedly. Suddenly, Aaron pulls Ace down with a schoolboy. The crowd roars.

Sharper: "Oh, and Aaron got Ace!" 

1!

2!

Ace kicks out and rolls through back to his feet. Aaron goes for a forearm strike, but Ace ducks it and catches Aaron, quickly hoisting him onto his shoulders. 

Sharper: "Ace, might be looking for Straight to DVD." 

Ace goes for the move, but Aaron slips out at the top, landing on his feet. Aaron throws himself back and connects with a Pelé kick to Ace's head. The crowd cheers as Ace stumbles back, holding his head. Aaron quickly gets back to his feet and rushes Ace, hitting him with a step up enzuigiri. Ace falls to a knee, noticeably dazed. Aaron gets up and uses all of his strength to lift Ace up into a fireman's carry before quickly dropping him down into an overhead kick. The crowd ohs before roaring as Aaron looks down at Ace on the mat. 

Sharper: "Pull the Trigger from Aaron!" 

Knots: "And Aaron is absolutely rolling now!" 

Aaron steps over Ace and swiftly leaps up to the top rope, turning to face Ace. 

Sharper: "Aaron, quickly to the top, but Ace is halfway across the ring!" 

Aaron stands up and steadies himself as Lexy panics on the outside. Aaron leaps off the turnbuckle before crashing down onto Ace with Painted Sky. The crowd goes crazy as Aaron drapes his back over Ace and hooks the far leg. 

1!

2!

Ace flings his arm up dramatically, just barely kicking out before the three.

Sharper: "Ace kicks out, but Aaron was a sliver away!"

Knots: "He's got his focus back, he's gotta keep it going now." 

Aaron takes a moment to compose himself as he lays back on Ace. After a few seconds, he gets up, bringing Ace with him, but Ace suddenly drops him into a small package. 

1!

2!

Aaron breaks free at the last second. Both him and Ace roll to the ropes on opposite sides of the ring. Lexy jumps onto the apron and stamps around, getting the attention of the referee, who tells her to get back to the outside. 

Lexy: "No! That was a three! I saw your hand hit the mat, which means we won!" 

The referee urges Lexy to get off the apron as Aaron gets up, walking towards Lexy. 

Lexy: "No, no, no!" 

She suddenly kicks through the ropes, hitting the referee right in the shin. She looks a bit concerned after the fact as the referee clutches their shin in annoyance. Aaron checks on the referee, who then ejects Lexy. The crowd roars as Lexy protests loudly. 

Sharper: "And Lexy Chapel has been ejected!" 

Knots: "She won't be happy with losing that TV time!" 

Sharper: "She's lucky Ace isn't being disqualified for her actions!" 

Lexy stamps around on the apron. Aaron just shakes his head and returns his focus to the match as Lexy and the referee continue to bicker. He goes over to grab Ace, but Ace reaches up and viciously rakes the eyes of Aaron. 

Sharper: "Oh, but Ace, with the eye rake! Referee's distracted!" 

Aaron turns, grasping at his eyes. Ace grabs him in a waistlock and runs towards the ropes. He pushes Aaron into the ropes, almost taking Lexy and the referee out in the process, and then rolls backwards, trapping Aaron into an O'Connor roll. The referee slides over as Lexy looks on excitedly.

1!

Ace sneakily gets a two handfuls of Aaron's tights. 

2!

3!

Ace falls forward and immediately rolls out of the ring as the bell sounds.

Phillips: "Here is your winner, via pinfall, Ace Marshall!" 

The crowd boos with a few cheers mixed in as Ace throws his arm up. Ace's music hits while Lexy sticks her tongue out at the referee before climbing down the steps and going to join Ace. 

Sharper: "Ace Marshall stole one!" 

Knots: "And Lexy, she didn't even have time to be properly ejected before Ace rolled Aaron up!"

Lexy steps in front of Ace, throwing up the LC hand sign in celebration. She looks back, noticing Ace not doing it. She throws the LC up again, gesturing for Ace to follow. He shrugs and throws the sign up behind her.

Sharper: "Aaron got back on track at the end there… he might have even had it won if not for Lexy."

Knots: "Can't argue that, but who knows? His mind drifted a few times. Letting Lexy distract him from the match at the end, that might have just been another example of him losing his focus." 

Inside the ring, the referee checks on Aaron, who's just sitting and staring at Ace and Lexy on the outside. As Ace and Lexy make their way up the ramp, Aaron just shakes his head and looks down at the mat. 

“The Old Me” plays throughout the arena as the Breakdown logo comes up on the screen before showing a still of Selena Frost vs. Syren.

Sharper: “Folks, it’s main event time. Two former World Championship about to face off and let’s go backstage where Jessica Winters is standing by with one of the two competitors, Selena Frost.”

The scene switches backstage to see Jessica Winters with Selena Frost at the SCW interview area.

Jessica: “Thank you Adam. Selena, in mere moments, you’ll face Syren in our main event. This however has been bubbling for months and has come to a head recently.”

Selena: “Syren’s attitude has been a problem for years. But well, let’s move on. All of this has been bubbling for a long time and with Ravyn going after David Helms, then making comments about his family and while Syren, Ravyn, they may be family legally, Regan and I may not be related but we are sisters and so when you go after her, you go after me. When you go after David, you go after me. And you seem to have figured that out as you have made sure to go after me the last few weeks and most recently in the Gauntlet…a night that exposed a lot about you, Syren, and about SCW. But…”

Selena pauses.

Selena: “That night…I showed I may be a bit too willing to come and go after you. I hope you enjoyed that night. Because tonight, I will be out there…it’s one on one. But Syren, Ravyn, Infamous…I have friends…and we have a few tricks up our sleeve. Believe it!”

Selena turns and heads off.

Jessica: “Selena Frost faces Syren, next!”

The scene fades to black.

COMMERCIALS

Selena Frost vs. Syren

The camera cuts to the crowd where we see a group of red-shirted security walking in through one of the ground-level entrances. They line up in front of the fans for a moment and seem to be holding them back. Then the lights go out leaving the arena in complete darkness. The screen fills with images of Franklin D. Roosevelt’s inaugural address.

“So, first of all, let me assert my firm belief that the only thing we have to fear is—”

There’s a record scratch before a deep voice fills the arena.

“INFAMOUS!”

The opening of “Groupie” by Cassie Steele hits the PA system and we cut to the hallways in the back, where the cameras watch as Syren rounds a corner on her way to the ring. She’s got her hands taped, appears to be in her ring gear with her ring jacket on, but doesn’t even acknowledge the camera. Behind her are notably CHBK and Alexander Crowe, and we can see Ravyn Taylor and Christy Matthews in the background as well. The crowd boos as this footage is shown on the screens. As the lights come back up in the arena, we see Syren walking through the doorway that security entered through moments earlier. She stands in the aisleway for a moment before turning her back to the camera. On the back of her jacket we see the Infamous skull logo.

Sinfully Seductive

Captivatingly Corrupt

Dark Fantasy

Syren spins back around again before looking over her shoulder. From behind her we see the rest of Infamous also walking through the doorway, led by CHBK. Ravyn Taylor and Christy Matthews also have similar jackets to Syren, with Christy’s being red in design and with a hood pulled up over her head. Syren leads the pack to the guard rail with the security walking alongside them, holding back any fans from getting too close.

Phillips: “Introducing, representing Infamous and being accompanied by Alexander Crowe, Ravyn Taylor, Christy Matthews, Christopher Richter and SCW Hall of Famer CHBK, hailing from Los Angeles, California, and weighing one hundred and twenty nine pounds, she is a seven-time SCW World Champion, she is ‘The Alpha Female’, this is SYREN!”

Syren smirks as she’s introduced. Once they get to the guard rail Syren jumps over before the camera follows her walking up the ring steps. Once there we see Alexander Crowe leap onto the apron and sit on the middle rope, lowering it for her. She steps between the ropes and leans back to kiss him before Syren climbs the turnbuckles and points to herself confidently, shouting down at those at ringside as they jeer her. She takes her jacket off and tosses it to Alexander at ringside as she adjusts the skull-logo armband on her arm, pointing it out to the camera with a grin on her face and tapping it with two fingers.

Sharper: “Infamous out here, en masse. Nothing surprising there. What is surprising is that Holly Adams isn’t out here.”

Knots: “Either running from Cookie or is there something at work here?”

Sharper: “Either way, Syren sharing her thoughts to the world earlier. And then flaunting the contracts.”

Knots: “She was told effectively she reset her own clock by walking off. She had a shot. Unfortunately, Syren’s head is so firmly up her own ego’s ass that she’s losing it. This is now just about some pathetic search for validation!”

Sharper: “But that makes her dangerous, and Ravyn too. They look at Selena, they look at David Helms as obstacles.”

BELIEVE IT!

The SCW Universe are on their feet as “Kings and Queens” by Ava Max as plays throughout the arena, snow “falling” along the electronic floor and screens as, out from the back walks the Snow Queen, Selena Frost, taking in the crowd of the SCW Universe.

Phillips: “Her opponent, from Nome, Alaska, she is the Snow Queen, Selena Frost!”

Slowly, Selena shifts her head, her sapphire eyes locked towards the ring as she lifts her front hand gracefully, extending it towards the ring, palm upward, her back arm lifted behind her to the sky. With a lift of her right foot, she suddenly slams it down into the ground, causing a crack like ice to form, but instead of the sprint, she walks slowly down to the ring. The crowd cheers her as she reaches the ring.

Sharper: “Selena Frost taking it a bit slower. Maybe some of the advice of David Helms coming into play. They’ve had emotional rides in 2021 with Regan Street’s injury.”

Knots: “Yeah, but Selena’s been clearly affected. It’s taken her off her game. Probably forced her to change some things too earlier.”

Sharper: “But now she has to potentially risk her own destruction before Retribution when she teams with David to face Dark Fantasy and wait a minute…David Helms isn’t going to let her come out here alone!”

David Helms walks out from the back, holding a steel chair. The crowd roars as Selena stops and glances back as David Helms walks down the rampway and over to the ringside area, standing next to Selena. Ravyn locks eyes with David as Syren looks on too before Selena slides into the ring. She gets up and steps up. Demitra steps in between her and Syren as the crowd roars. David continues to hold the chair as he watches Infamous on the floor.

Sharper: “Selena and Syren already starting to jaw at one another. No love lost here.”

Knots: “Hell, Syren hates Regan. That’s enough, I’m sure. Never mind that from when she’s got here, Selena just rubbed a lot of the establishment the wrong way. Because she’s her.”

The bell sounds. Selena and Syren step up to one another and lock up in the middle of the ring. They push back on one another and Selena turns into a side headlock. Syren reaches around and starts to pull Selena to the ropes before firing her off. Selena bounces off and Syren steps up and Selena shoulders her down. Syren hits the mat. She looks up and Selena runs into the ropes. Syren rolls over and tries to take out Selena’s legs. Selena hops over and bounces off the other side. Syren jumps up and leapfrogs over. Selena ducks under and bounces off the other side. Syren goes for a back elbow. Selena somersaults under. She then rolls back and wraps her legs around the head of Syren. Syren struggles and pushes her down. She goes for an elbow drop. Selena rolls out of the way. Syren rolls over and gets up and Selena sidesteps, throwing her into the corner. Syren turns and Selena hits a shoot kick to the ribs and then another and another. The crowd roars.

1!

2!

3!

4!

Selena backs up as CHBK snaps at Demitra to get her back. Syren grimaces a bit in pain, holding her ribs.

Sharper: “Selena happy to be as aggressive as I’m sure Syren feels.”

Knots: “Quickly, we’re finding out this could be a scrappy one here.”

Syren looks at Selena and Syren then steps out and goes for another grapple. The two push back on one another. Syren steps over and tries to push Selena back, but Selena turns into the push and gets Syren into the corner. Syren pushes out and then grapple, holding on, spinning along the ropes before Selena again gets the advantage in the corner. She pushes Syren back as the referee calls for the break.

1!

2!

3!

4!

Selena steps back and Syren goes for a hard right, but Selena blocks it and nails her with a forearm shot. She then grabs Syren and whips her across the ring. Syren hits the corner and bounces out, running out and Selena clotheslines her down. She goes for the pin.

1!

Syren kicks out. Both women get up and Syren moves back to the ropes. Selena follows up and Syren steps through, but Selena clubs her in the back, over and over.

Sharper: “Selena not going to worry about the break this time. She wants Syren!”

Knots: “Syren maybe looking to sucker her in. Get to the floor. It’s Syren, all of it is in play.”

Sharper: “Meanwhile, look at Ravyn Taylor. She’s just watching David Helms.”

Knots: “I’d be watching a man with a chair too!”

Selena pulls Syren out and then scoops her up and slams her down. Syren rolls over and gets up and Selena steps up and chops her. The crowd woos. Syren falls to the corner. Selena chops her again. More woos. She then grabs Syren and whips her across the ring. Syren flips up the corner and to the top rope and then backflips back. She staggers out and Syren clotheslines her down again. She goes for the pin.

1!

2!

Syren kicks out. Syren rolls over and moves to the corner. Selena follows up as David keeps looking on and Selena grabs Syren, but Syren reaches up and rakes her eyes. She then spins Selena into the corner. The crowd boos as Syren snap jabs her in the jaw and then hits a forearm shot to the jaw and then another and another.

1!

2!

3!

4!

Syren backs up. She snaps at the official before grabbing Selena and pulling her out and then hitting a snap suplex. Syren pushes down on her face and then jumps up and hits a stomp to the side of Selena’s jaw. Selena rolls over in pain as the crowd boos. Infamous continues to remain on their side of the ring, CHBK looking on. Ravyn continues to keep her eyes on David.

Sharper: “Syren making sure Selena is going to have to be in pain for this one. A stomp to the jaw. Nothing fancy.”

Knots: “Hurts like hell. Knowing Syren, it’s probably to keep her quiet.”

Syren then grabs Selena and pulls her up and hoists her up and hits a back suplex. She turns and hooks the leg.

1!

2!

Selena kicks out. Both women get up and Syren kicks Selena in the ribs. She fires Selena into the ropes. Selena bounces off and Syren hits a back elbow. Selena pops up and moves to the corner, nearest Infamous. Syren follows up and climbs up to the middle turnbuckle, hammering away on her as the crowd boos.

1!

2!

3!

4!

Syren jumps down, ignoring the crowd. She then grabs Selena and whips her across the ring. Selena runs chest first into the corner. She staggers back and Syren rolls her up.

1!

2!

Selena kicks out.

Sharper: “Syren hoped that would be enough. Force the air out!”

Knots: “And again, both are putting everything behind each shot. Selena’s already shown she can knock out anyone just like that.”

Sharper: “I’m sure Syren would love that feather in her cap, if she took her down that way. Even with something more benign like sending her into the corner.”

Selena rolls over and Syren grabs her and pulls her up. She scoop slams her down. Syren runs into the ropes, bouncing off and hitting a running elbow drop. She goes for the pin.

1!

2!

Selena kicks out again. Syren then grabs Selena, dragging her up and then kneeing her in the ribs. Syren then spins her around and goes to scoop her up for a backbreaker, but Selena backflips through. Syren goes for a back elbow. Selena ducks and jumps to the middle rope and dives back with a back elbow. Syren hits the mat. Both women get up and Selena hits a dropkick. Syren rolls over and gets back up and turns and Selena kicks her in the ribs before hooking her up. She then hooks her leg and hits a fisherman’s suplex into a bridge!

1!

2!

Syren kicks out. Ravyn is then shown waving behind her. Crowe starts to move around the ring. Christy glances at Ravyn. Ravyn finally takes her eyes off David and to Christy. Christy then starts to walk around.

Sharper: “Ravyn Taylor starting to move the troops. Selena gets a two count!”

Knots: “Trying to just overwhelm David and Selena! It’s two against six!”

Sharper: “And distraction is Ravyn’s specialty. Or should I say subterfuge!”

Christy and Crowe walk around as David smirks and turns and hits the ringpost with the chair, motioning on them to come over. Crowe stops as Christy just walks past him. Selena turns and notices this. David and her nod before Syren starts to stir and Selena turns and stomps her in the face. Syren rolls over. Selena grabs her and Syren suddenly nails her in the ribs with a shot and then another. Selena falls back into the ropes. Syren turns and runs at her and just then, Selena hits a hip toss, sending Syren up and over to the apron. Crowe turns and instinctively puts his hands up to stop her from falling. Christy ignores her though and continues to come at David. Christy then taps her chin and David smirks and swings. This gets Christy to crack. Selena then jumps to the middle rope and then dives over and hits a springboard dropkick, knocking Syren into Crowe. Crowe catches her and falls back. She rolls through. Ravyn keeps watching as does CHBK as David steps back. Demitra at this point sees what’s going on and Syren and Crowe get up. Christy keeps looking and then Selena runs across the ring and bounces off the ropes before diving through the ropes, hitting a pescado through the ropes into Crowe and Syren and David swings again, getting Christy to get clipped by her too. Christy rolls through, holding her left arm in annoyance. Demitra then drops to the floor. The crowd cheers.

Sharper: “Selena takes Matthews, Syren and Crowe! David setting them up and Selena taking them down. They’re working well!”

Knots: “But Demitra….Wait!”

Demitra looks at them and then points to Christy and Crowe and motions for them to leave. The crowd roars. He then turns to David and points to him too and motions for him to go. The crowd boos loudly.

Sharper: “And wait a minute! Demitra tossing Matthews and Crowe…and now Helms too!”

Knots: “They were getting involved. Demitra clearly not wanting this to break down and all of the belligerents on the floor being told to leave!”

Sharper: “Was this Ravyn’s plan? We’ll settle this all and be back in a moment with the conclusion of this match!”

The scene cuts to commercial.

COMMERCIALS

Breakdown returns as Selena is in the ring, down on the mat as Syren starts to get up, wincing in pain.

Sharper: “Welcome back to Breakdown. Let’s take a look at some of what happened during the commercial break here.”

DURING THE BREAK:

We see David Helms walking to the back, chair in hand. He glances at Ravyn who just smiles before blowing him a kiss. The Breakdown logo comes up on the screen before we see Selena pulled throat first into the top rope as Syren leans against the ropes and then Syren throwing her back with a backcracker. The Breakdown logo comes up on the screen.

Knots: “Ravyn clearly manipulating the situation. Only the people involved in the melee out. Richter left with Matthews. So now its Ravyn and CHBK out here.”

Sharper: “And Syren then showing her craftiness and here we are.”

Syren then grabs Selena and pulls her up and hits a backbreaker. She hooks the leg.

1!

2!

Selena pushes her off. Selena rolls over, looking around. CHBK looks at her and smirks as Syren gets up. She winces a bit and stomps Selena in the back and then again before grabbing her and placing her on the middle rope. She starts to choke her. The crowd boos.

1!

2!

3!

4!

Syren then grabs the top rope and slingshots over, landing with a leg drop to the back of Selena’s head. Selena falls back. Syren then rolls into the ring and hooks the leg.

1!

2!

Selena kicks out.

Sharper: “Selena kicks out! Syren dropping her weight on her back of her head!”

Knots: “Whatever Helms and Frost had planned, it seemed to now not work as Helms is gone. Dark Fantasy and CHBK out here. Selena alone. And Syren in control.”

Syren pulls Selena up and drags her over to the corner, driving her face first into the top turnbuckle. Selena turns and Syren kicks her in the ribs. Syren grabs her and whips her across the ring. She hits the corner. Syren runs after and hits a running clothesline. She then grabs Selena’s head and runs out for a bulldog, but Selena turns a bit and pushes her into the ropes. Syren bounces off and Selena hits a spinning heel kick on the rebound. The crowd cheers. Both women get up and Selena kicks her in the ribs before hitting a shoot kick to the chest. Syren falls back to the ropes. Selena then runs over and grabs her and tries for an Okana roll.

1!

2!

Syren kicks out. Selena falls forward and nearly into Ravyn who grabs at the rope next to her. Selena and Ravyn lock eyes and Selena jukes back a bit, more out of instinct. But then, Syren runs up behind her and hits a running Yakuza kick to the back of the head. The crowd ohs. Selena falls back.

Sharper: “Oh God! Syren took her head off! Ravyn with a distraction!”

Knots: “Selena has to be out. We talked about the knocking people out in flash. Syren may have done just that!”

Syren pulls her away from the ropes, rolling through, hooking the leg.

1!

2!

Selena shoots her shoulder up. The crowd roars. Syren rolls off and looks at Demitra before getting up. Selena rolls over as a “We Believe!” chant starts to echo throughout the arena. Syren looks around at the crowd in disgust. She then turns and grabs Selena, pulling her up and then clubbing her in the back before clubbing her again. She then places her head between her legs and hoists her up before hitting a powerbomb. The crowd ohs. Syren then turns and goes to the corner. She exits to the apron and then climbs up to the top rope. She looks at Selena as Selena remains down. Syren then dives off and goes for an elbow drop, a la CHBK, but Selena rolls out of the way. Syren rolls through. The crowd cheers.

Sharper: “No one home. Syren pulling out the elbow drop. Shades of CHBK!”

Knots: “Unlike CHBK, she didn’t hit it though!”

Syren rolls over, holding her arm and then looking over. CHBK says something to her. Selena starts to stir. Syren then stops holding her arm, merely writhing in pain and starting to get up. Selena gets up and Syren up in the corner, trying to limit the use of her right arm as Selena then runs at her and spears her into the corner. The crowd roars. She rears back and spears her again and again before grabbing Syren and going to whip her across, but Syren nails her with a forearm and then another, pulling her arm away. Selena notices this and Syren kicks her in the ribs. Selena staggers back and Syren then runs out, but Selena kicks her in the ribs. Syren falls to the corner and then Selena pulls her out and hits the Cold Snapmare. Selena rolls through too.

Sharper: “I don’t know if Syren hurt herself or tweaked something. But the arm…”

Knots: “Maybe just remembering Selena’s Frost Bite submission!”

Selena then hits a kick to the chest of Syren. Syren falls back. Selena turns and goes for the arm again. Syren, however, keeps fighting it off. CHBK watches as Ravyn does too. Syren continues to punch at the hands of Selena, but Selena refuses to let go. The crowd roars as they want to see her lock in the Frost’s Bite, but Syren grimaces in pain as CHBK then turns to the referee and reaches in and pulls him out of the ring. The crowd boos. Selena lets go and rolls over as Ravyn enters the ring. CHBK blasts Demitra with a hard right, knocking him down. The crowd boos.

Sharper: “Damn it! Infamous going to their usual aim now!”

Knots: “And David’s not here!”

Sharper: “Syren’s arm has to be tweaked or something.”

Knots: “Or they’re not going to concern themselves about tonight to ensure a win at Retribution! Bigger stage!”

Ravyn gets up and kicks Selena in the ribs. Selena goes down. She stomps her a few more times as Syren rolls over, shaking out her arm. CHBK enters and checks on her. Ravyn then grabs Selena and pulls her up, placing her in the corner and pulling on the arm, hooking it on the top rope. Syren turns and heads over and nails Selena with a shot to the jaw. Selena falls to a knee. Ravyn smirks as just then, the arena goes dark. The crowd roars. The sound of a Hellcat scratching through the screen is seen with a roar. “Who's Next” by Porcelain Black plays throughout the arena as the crowd cheers louder. Syren steps back, ready for a fight, seemingly forgetting about her potential arm injury. Ravyn steps back too as CHBK glances at the entrance way.

Sharper: “You don’t think…I thought…”

Knots: “I did too! I didn’t even know she was here!”

Sharper: “Regan Street’s music playing throughout the arena.”

The music continues as the lights come up. Selena then lunges and nails Ravyn with the Glass Shard. The crowd erupts in cheers. Selena drops to the mat and rolls to the floor. Syren runs at the ropes and kicks at them, missing her. Selena backs up, a smile on her face.

Selena: “That….that was for Regan!”

Selena backs up as the music cuts out to turn into “Kings and Queens.”

CHBK glances at Selena as Syren follows her around the ring. We then see Mikaela Street walking out from the back. The crowd cheering as Selena turns and backs up the rampway.

Sharper: “Selena saying that was for Regan! And at Retribution, she and David will team up. Selena getting the drop on Ravyn Taylor tonight. But the temperature of this rivalry only getting hotter. What will happen at Retribution!”

Selena joins Mikaela at the top of the rampway as Syren continues to glare at her as Ravyn slowly starts to stir in the ring and the scene fades to black…