“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 Selena Frost celebrating with the World Championship start before we see a shot of the Konrad Raab, bloodied, standing tall in the ring. Following this is Cid Turner punching CHBK in the concourse. Ace Sky diving off the top rope onto an opponent follows.

I think I lost my memory

I can't remember carefree

And all my days turn into fight or flight

Holly Adams standing on Asher Hayes at Tactical Warfare follows before we see Syren hitting the Total Makeover on an opponent. The One choking out Beard before we see Polly Playtime diving off the top rope and landing on an opponent with a crossbody.

I wanna get back, tell me how to get back

I wanna get back, tell me how to get back

Holly Adams throwing Syren into the windshield of a pink convertible follows before we see The Happy Farmstead Friends holding the SCW World Tag Team Championship. Ravyn Taylor standing on the ropes, looking down at herself, follows before we see Gavin Taylor hitting an opponent with the Gavin Taylor Lariat. Glory Braddock hitting the London Plunge on a downed opponents is next before we see Tsunami hitting a running body avalanche on an opponent in the corner.

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?

Autumn Valentine hitting the Blindspot on a foe follows before we see a shot of Owen Lee and Daisy Lee on their way to the ring, and then a shot of Kimberly Williams licking a staple gun. 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 CHI Health Center in Omaha, Nebraska. The cameras pan across the crowd for a few moments.

Sharper: “After a wild night, a historic night, at Playing the Wildcard, Breakdown comes to you from Omaha, Nebraska!”

The cameras continue to pan across the crowd before settling on the ring where Mr. D stands.

Mr. D: “Fans…please allow me to welcome…for one more time….the SCW United States Champion and the NEW SCW World Champion…OWEN CRUZE!”

The crowd roars as the opening rifts to the Black Adam theme kick in, and smoke fills the entranceway. The arena is in bedlam as Owen Cruze walks through the smoke and stands at the top of the ramp, the United States title around his waist, and the World Championship draped over his shoulder. He stands there almost overcome with the reaction. He lifts his hands and applauds the fans, which makes the noise intensify even more, before starting the walk down to the ring. At the ring he pauses, lowering his head for a second, before climbing the steps, and stepping through the strands. He walks over to Mr. D who shakes his hand. Mr. D then hands him his microphone and steps back. Owen takes the microphone before moving to the middle of the ring. He stops to listen, as a ‘Cruze’ chants accompanies his theme music, and he waits, as the music dies down, but the fans still continue.

Sharper: “We mentioned it at Playing the Wildcard. Owen Cruze refusing a contract extension. Instead, deciding that night, win or lose, he was going to call it a career.”

Knots: “And he won. Won and walked out a double champion!”

Finally, he holds up his hand, biting on his bottom lip to try and keep his emotions on check. Once the crowd has quietened down enough, he speaks.

Owen: “Thank you.”

Another roar accompanies those two simple words, a smile forming on Owen’s face.

Owen: “You know, there still those that believe I don’t deserve an ovation like that.”

The crowd boos a bit before a “Yes You Do!” chant breaks out. Owen smirks and chuckles a bit before nodding.

Owen: “And you know what, I totally get that opinion. Because the last time I left… under the biggest of clouds and my reputation in tatters, I upset a whole lot of people. I’ve never excused what I did. I acted like a spoilt brat, and I know that now. I disrespected my family, I disrespected my father, and more than anyone I disrespected this company and every single one of you.”

Owen paces the ring, continuing to speak as he does. He briefly looks at Mr. D for a moment before refocusing.

Owen: “And that didn’t sit well with me. I knew that wasn’t the person I wanted to be remembered as. The guy who got out of dodge the moment the pressure got too much. I decided, a decision that changed my life and put me back on the right track. And once I was better, I knew there was only one piece of the puzzle missing. I needed to come home. I needed to return to the Supreme. Thankfully, Olek didn’t hold any kind of grudge…”

Owen glances again back at the SCW founder.

Owen: “…and SCW gave me a contract that I knew I hadn’t earned. I started right at the very bottom, and I worked on regaining that respect I had lost. You all joined me, as I travelled this ‘redemption’ journey, and tried to get back what I had lost. And at Rise to Greatness, in defeat to Josh Hudson, I completed that journey. I felt that love once more. But the momentum had built now, and Josh Hudson taught me a lesson. He made me recognize that there was more for me to do. I had to face the Elimination Chamber, the structure where it had all started to unravel. I needed to fight my way back into World Championship contention. And ultimately, I needed to be World Champion once more, to erase the memory of what a mess I had made of it first time around.”

Owen pauses for a moment before looking up at the crowd.

Owen: “I won the Elimination Chamber, and I defeated Valentine. And I am sure you will all agree, when all around me was falling into chaos, I maintained my honor, and I maintained my integrity, even when Kim threw a spanner in the works. I ended the story at Playing the Wildcard, in front of the eyes of the World when I defeated the one man who I could never overcome.”

A huge roar greets that statement, but Owen holds up his hand, asking for quiet.

Owen: “And I could stand here as smug as you like, but I don’t need to. It would be wrong of me to lord it over Josh like he did me after Rise to Greatness. Because make no bones about it guys, without Josh Hudson, I wouldn’t have gotten my redemption. Without Josh Hudson, I would be stood here right now as the World AND United States Champion. With Josh Hudson, I wouldn’t go down in history as the man who ended his career on the ultimate of highs.”

A hush falls over the arena, as Owen pauses to gather his emotions, wiping his eye with the back of his hand.

Owen: “I’ve been asked many times over the course of this week; how can I walk away when I am at the height of my powers? How can I leave it all behind, when I have just achieved the biggest victory of my career?”

Owen stops again.

Owen: “I’m not going to pretend its easy guys, because it isn’t. I’ve emulated my father in so many ways, but at this juncture, this is where I choose a different path. Not because I have fallen out of love with the industry. Not because I don’t believe I can cope with the rigors any longer. I leave my second love, the business, to be with my first love, my family. Because if there is anything I have learned over the years from my Dad, and from Shaun, it’s that you cannot do both and something has to suffer. I WON’T let Jennifer and my Baby suffer… ever.”

Owen takes the World Championship off his shoulder. He looks at it for a moment before turning and walking over to Mr. D. He hands the title over to him. Mr. D takes it and folds the straps over and places it in his hand.

Sharper: “Owen Cruze now handing over the World Championship to the founder of this company.”

Knots: “And now the US title too.”

A murmur rolls around the arena, recognizing what he is doing. He then unfastens the United States Championship, and looks at it again too before nodding and handing it to Mr. D. Owen then takes a step back, and looks up, tears now glistening in the arena lights.

Owen: “And so, I hand these belts over, knowing that two individuals will win those tournaments and carry the responsibility that I have been honored to hold. Looking at both brackets, I know that they will be in good hands by the time Taking Hold of the Flame comes and goes. And respectfully, I wish all of you the best of luck.”

The crowd cheers a bit as Owen turns to the crowd.

Owen: “And to you all, once again, I thank you.”

The crowd applauds.

Owen: “Not just from myself, but for the entire Cruze legacy. It’s been an honor, and a privilege to perform for you all. Like I said before, don’t cry because it’s over, smile because it happened and continue supporting THE standard bearer for professional wrestling, cheering and booing the SCW roster in equal measure, just like I will. I’m looking forward to being like everyone of you… quite simply a fan, of the greatest company in the world. And who knows… maybe in a couple of decades a new Cruze legacy will be born.”

The crowd cheers. Slowly a “Baby Cruze!” chant begins. Owen smiles, looking down for a moment, shaking his head, before then looking back up to the crowd.

Owen: “A bit more to come before then!”

The crowd cheers as Owen chuckles.

Owen: “But till then, this is goodbye. Remember me as someone who gave everything and laid it all on the line. Remember me as a Champion, who tried to make the SCW a better place. But most of all, remember me as a good man, because that’s all of us ever want. I’ll see you on the flip side SCW… I love you all.”

Owen walks to the titles, and kisses his index finger, placing it on both titles before handing Mr. D the microphone. A ‘Thank you Owen’ chant starts to roll around the arena and he nips up onto the corner turnbuckle and lifts an arm to a roar of approval. With a final look back at the championships he jumps down and rolls under the bottom rope, walking over to the announce table and shaking hands with the commentators.

Sharper: “Congratulations Owen.”

Knots: “Yeah, enjoy fatherhood.”

He then walks around the ring, high fiving as many fans as he can before walking up the ramp, doing the same.

Sharper “Owen Cruze…barely old enough to drink alcohol and has had a career few will forget. He’s earned his retirement and all the best for that champion!”

Once he reaches the top he turns, and now we see tears falling from his eyes freely, and he winks, once again applauding the entire arena. Finally, he salutes the closest camera, mouthing the word ‘Goodbye’, before turning and leaving through the curtain. The scene fades to black.

COMMERCIALS

MOMENTS AGO:

We see Owen Cruze in the ring, microphone in his hand.

Sharper: “If you missed it folks, Owen Cruze vacating the SCW World and US Championships, as expected, as he goes off to retirement.”

The replay starts.

Owen: “But till then, this is goodbye. Remember me as someone who gave everything and laid it all on the line. Remember me as a Champion, who tried to make the SCW a better place. But most of all, remember me as a good man, because that’s all of us ever want. I’ll see you on the flip side SCW… I love you all.”

Owen walks to the titles, and kisses his index finger, placing it on both titles before handing Mr. D the microphone. A ‘Thank you Owen’ chant starts to roll around the arena and he nips up onto the corner turnbuckle and lifts an arm to a roar of approval. We cut forward to see him now on the stage. He salutes the closest camera, mouthing the word ‘Goodbye’, before turning and leaving through the curtain. The scene fades to black. The Breakdown logo comes up in the ring.

We cut to the ring.

Sharper: “And there you see Mr. D, the founder of SCW and during the commercial break, we’ve had two podiums set up for the two titles Owen vacated. The SCW World Championship and the SCW United States Championship. And let’s now go to Mr. D.”

Mr. D looks off to the side, presumably given a sign, and starts to speak.

Mr. D: “First, on behalf of SCW, we hope that Owen Cruze enjoys his retirement and we also hope at some point we will see him again.”

The crowd cheers. Mr. D looks around.

Mr. D: “But as Owen Cruze has retired, this means that bot the SCW United States and World Championships are without champions to hold them. And beginning tonight, we will see sixteen individuals, eight for the World Title, eight for the US Title, compete to determine who will be holding those titles. Tonight and next Thursday, we will see the quarterfinals. First, allow me to introduce the matches of the SCW United States Championship Tournament.”

“The Old Me” by Memphis May Fire plays throughout the arena as the Breakdown logo comes up on the screen before the tournament brackets come up on the screen.

Glory Braddock vs. Deanna Frost (Breakdown - May 11)

James Evans vs. Amelia Blythe (Breakdown - May 11)

Bree Lancaster vs. Alexis Quinne (Breakdown - May 6)

Polly Playtime vs. The One (Breakdown - May 6)

Mr. D: “Later tonight, Polly Playtime will face off against The One and Bree Lancaster will face Alexis Quinne. Next week, James Evans faces Amelia Blythe, and Glory Braddock faces Deanna Frost. One of those eight individuals will become the SCW United States Champion at Taking Hold of the Flame!”

The crowd cheers a bit.

Sharper: “Talk about an interesting field. Opportunities for some. Four former World Champions as well. But a lot of opportunity. The One, Amelia Blythe, Polly Playtime and Deanna Frost.”

Knots: “And we just should mention – Polly Playtime and Glory Braddock…they just had a match that was supposed to be their last ever. But depending on how things go, they could clash at Taking Hold of the Flame for the US Title.”

Sharper: “And I’ll highlight Blythe versus Evans as a potential technical masterclass. Evans may be unique, but his ability is something we can’t deny.”

Mr. D nods as he looks at the crowd.

Mr. D: “And now, allow me to introduce the eight individuals who will hope to become the SCW World Champion and likely main event Rise to Greatness against the Taking Hold of the Flame winner.”

“The Old Me” plays again as the Breakdown logo comes up on the screen and the tournament brackets for the SCW World Championship Tournament follow.

Xander Valentine vs. Ace Marshall (Breakdown - May 6)

Josh Hudson vs. Selena Frost (Breakdown - May 6)

Syren vs. Adam Allocco (Breakdown - May 11)

Kandis vs. Asher Hayes (Breakdown - May 11)

Mr. D: “Tonight, we will see Xander Valentine and one half of the SCW World Tag Team Champions Ace Marshall clash to determine who will move on. Joining them in action tonight, the former SCW World Champion, losing the title at Playing the Wildcard, and will face Selena Frost in our main event. The next week, Kandis and Asher Hayes will have a rematch from Body, Heart, and Soul and Syren and Adam Allocco will clash in one on one action. Those are your eight contenders.”

The crowd roars.

Sharper: “Huge matches. Six former World Champions and of these, these are all individuals who have either challenged for the title or held the SCW World Championship in the last year, or have been gunning for it. Asher Hayes defeating Alexis Quinne and Kandis, we all know what she wants.”

Knots: “If she doesn’t piss everyone off!”

Mr. D: “As noted, the first round will take place this week and next Thursday on Breakdown. The semifinals for both tournaments will take place the following week. And the finals which will determine the new champions will take place in Milwaukee at Taking Hold of the Flame!”

The crowd cheers. Mr. D looks around.

Mr. D: “We will determine a clear champion in just over one months time before marching to Rise to Greatness XX in Toronto, Ontario, Canada.”

The crowd roars as then we hear another roar from the crowd before a mixed reaction follows. Selena Frost heads down to the ring from the back, microphone in her hand. Deanna is a few strides behind her. The mixed reaction continues before Mr. D turns to the entrance way, seeing them arrive.

Mr. D: “Selena-“

Selena doesn’t respond as she climbs onto the apron and enters the ring. Deanna reaches the ring and walks up the steel steps. Selena steps past the SCW World Championship and then up to Mr. D.

Selena: “Don’t say anything. I am just going to make this clear. It’s clear you don’t wish to stand for something better. Playing the Wildcard and that…after everything we tried to do in that division…the teams returning or stepping up to challenge us…and it’s all gone for those two frauds….”

Selena pauses as the crowd boos a bit, while some cheer. Deanna tries to stop Selena, but Selena continues.

Selena: “So I will simply make it clear that I will make sure that the championship has a titleholder that stands for integrity. I worked too hard to see it turn back into the symbol of narcissism that it had for too long.”

Selena pauses.

Selena: “But you better make sure that these tournament stand for what they should. That they don’t become tainted. I see some of the people in them. And while they may have the talented, their egos make them unfit. And going into the biggest event in SCW history…Deanna will win the US Championship and I will win the World Championship and SCW, the Board of Directors, whoever buys this company…while YOU refuse to act in its best interests…we will!”

Selena looks right up at Mr. D.

Selena: “Believe it-“

“Duality” then suddenly plays as Selena turns to the entrance way as Josh Hudson walks out from the back.

Sharper: “Selena Frost, who we have noticed getting more and more frustrated in recent weeks-“

Knots: “You notice she doesn’t have the SCW World Tag Team Championship! Neither her or Deanna!”

Josh Hudson steps out from the back, holding a microphone. He then heads down to the ring. Selena Frost and Deanna Frost watch him as Josh Hudson reaches the ring.

Sharper: “And now the former US and World Champion arriving.”

Knots: “And he faces Selena tonight!”

Josh Hudson pulls himself onto the apron and then steps into the ring. He steps up and looks at Deanna before Selena steps in front of her.

Selena: “You’re facing me tonight.”

Hudson: “Are you jumped up tonight?”

Selena: “Because I’ve seen too much of what I’ve worked for flushed down the toilet for some reason!”

Selena glances at Mr. D as Mr. D shakes his head.

Hudson: “Well I stand here without MY Titles because Owen Cruze. So I guess it’s the same. But Selena, you can believe what you want. I’m out here for two reasons. One…you pissed me off by thinking you’ll beat me. I’ll deal with that tonight.”

Hudson then glances at Deanna. Hudson steps around Selena and steps over to her.

Hudson: “And you said Deanna’s going to win the US Title. She might. But while I’m only getting ONE rematch tonight, I held the US title for a long damn time. And since you want to claim your power over everything Snow Queen, just remember that I held that title for just as long as you held those tag titles before Kim screwed it all up. And whether it’s Deanna or whomever, that title is synonymous with me now. And if you shit on it…I have no problem breaking in the right lesson!”

The crowd roars as Selena turns and spins Hudson around.

Selena: “You won’t be getting past me. So leave the threats in your mind.”

Hudson: “Oh, I will…Believe it!”

Hudson nudges Selena and walks past her. He then walks over to the SCW World Championship sitting on the podium before glancing over at the US Title before stepping through the ropes. Selena then turns to Mr. D briefly before turning and exiting the ring on the opposite side of the ring. Deanna glances at Mr. D too and exits as they head around.

Sharper: “Tensions rising here tonight. Deanna Frost will be in action next week against Glory Braddock. But tonight, Hudson and Selena Frost clash in our main event in one of two World Championship Tournament matches. All this and much more-“

Knots: “Underground Title is on the line too!”

Sharper: “It is and it’s going to be a wild night!”

The scene cuts away.

Backstage, we see Bree Lancaster talking to Datura. Datura hypes Bree up as Bree nods and turns and heads out of the locker room.

Sharper: “Bree Lancaster – you see Datura hyping up her friend. Alexis Quinne will await her. She wants to get one step closer to SCW gold again. They will meet in mere moments in our first US Championship Tournament match. That’s next, here on Breakdown!”

Bree heads down the hallway as the camera turns to show Alexis Quinne walking down another hallway backstage as the scene fades out.

COMMERCIALS

Bree Lancaster vs. Alexis Quinne

SCW United States Championship Tournament

The lights dim slightly as a male voice speaks:

“When's the last time you were afraid?”
“I haven't been afraid a day in my life.”

The music and chorus of Shinedown's “Dead Don't Die” kicks in, with white strobe lights flashing in time. Bree Lancaster runs out from the curtain, arms spread wide, hands facing up, and a smile on her face.

Sharper: “This is looking to be a hell of a match between two very competitive and highly decorated challengers.”

Knots: “Everyone recalls the last time Bree was the United States Champion. It was then contested for after she became the World Champion.”

Bree makes her way down the ramp, confidence in her step as she speaks to a fan or two on the way.

Phillips: “The following contest is part of round one for the United States Championship tournament, to be decided by pinfall! Introducing first, from New Orleans, Louisiana, Bree Lancaster!”

Bree sprints up the ring steps, quickly wipes her feet on the apron then steps through the ropes. She does a spin in the center of the ring, arms spread out like before, drawing cheers. She then heads to her corner as the music fades and the lights return to normal.The eyes all focus on the stage. The lights grow dim. Opening strum of Rage Against the Machine's Calm Like a Bomb plays. White house lights illuminate the ramp.

Feel the funk blast
Feel the funk blast
FEEL THE FUNK BLAST

The house lights turn blue, red, green, etc. Alexis Quinne steps out through the curtains. She is dressed in a red, silver and black jacket along with a white and red sugar mask with black trim. The jacket has "V" plastered in the front with YOVAYGERS on the bottom. Alexis slowly turns around, facing the crowd. Her right wrist is heavily tapped up. While doing so, she removes her mask, before turning back around. Quinne starts heard down to the ring.

Phillips: “And her opponentm from San Francisco, California, this. Is. Alexis Quinne!”

Alexis tosses her mask into the crowd while approaching the ring. She extends her arms, clenching her fist. Reaching ringside the camera does the classic rotation that it used to do for her entrances. The crowd roars. Alexis ascends up the steel steps. She rest her head on top of the turnbuckle before climbing up the turnbuckle and raises her fist in the air. The crowd cheers and Alexis peers at the crowd. She jumps into the ring and takes off her jacket. She immediately turns to Bree as the referee signals for both to step forward. He then proceeds to call for the bell after. Bree and Alexis lock up center in the ring, Bree immediately pulls Alexis down into a headlock before spinning around and hip tossing Alexis down to the mat. She shifts as Alexis reaches up initially for the rope, turning the headlock into a hammerlock hold, pulling her other arm back behind her back. Alexis manages to get onto one knee, pulling Bree up to both before doing a roll over followed by a kip up. She arm drags Bree over and goes to get a hold of her only for Bree to lock her into another headlock. Alexis delivers a shot to the mid section, delivers a second and then a third before breaking the hold and wrapping Bree’s wrist and twisting it behind her back. Bree leans back into Alexis and tries to wrap her other arm around Alexis’s head. Alexis pulls herself back before suddenly reaching both arms up to Bree’s head before simply slamming Bree down to the mat by her hair. Bree rolls backwards and up onto her feet as Alexis goes for another arm drag. Bree keeps her balance while grabbing a hold of Alexis by the back of the head before running forward and dropping her with a bulldog. She immediately grabs one leg and hooks it with hers before leaning forward seemingly going for an STF. Alexis reaches back and stiffs Bree with an elbow to the jaw causing her to fall back. Alexis flips forward up onto her feet before charging the ropes and using them for momentum. Bree sits up just as Alexis goes for a shining wizard. Bree ducks the knees and rolls Alexis up with a school boy.

1!

2!

Alexis kicks out. She rolls up and turns just as Bree goes for a snapmare. Alexis counters as she flips forward with a piggy back stunner. Bree stumbles a bit as Alexis applies another wrist lock. She twists the arm causing Bree to bend down to one knee before spinning and suddenly drilling Bree with a roundhouse kick to the chest. She delivers a second and a third. She goes for a fourth. Bree ducks the kick and pulls on the arm Alexis has the wrist lock applied to back under and in between her own legs. Alexis drops the hold and Bree lunges, wrapping one arm around Alexis’ neck before dropping her with a reverse DDT. Pulling her back up to her feet she swings Alexis around before dropping her with a swinging neckbreaker. As she connects with the move she throws her legs up and rolls backwards ontop of Alexis in a Thez press position. She starts hammering with several lefts and rights. The crowd cheers before Alexis reaches up and thumbs Bree in the eye. Bree tries going for another swing while using one hand to run it over her face only for Alexis to give her a thumb to the other eye causing the referee to shout at her as Bree stumbles back up to her feet. Alexis pulls her self away before suddenly running and jumping up behind Bree, slamming her back to the mat with a crucifix pin.

1!

2!

Bree pulls her shoulder up while rolling up to her feet. She spins around and pulls Alexis in with another school boy attempt.

1!

2!

Alexis breaks the pin and as Bree stands Alexis trips her immediately with a drop toe hold. Bree rolls and quickly stands before Alexis Alexis delivers several knife hand chops to her chest. She tries grabbing Bree’s arm and whipping her into the ropes but Bree out powers her spinning and pulling Alexis and whipping her instead. As Alexis bounces off the ropes Bree drops to flip her over. Alexis leaps up and flips over Bree’s shoulder. As Bree spins around Alexis jumps up and bounces one leg off Bree’s knee before using the other one to enzuigiri Bree knocking her to the mat. The crowd pops as Alexis stands. She leans into the ropes and bounces herself off as Bree stands. Alexis jumps up and connects with a Nico Latch!

1!

2!

Bree kicks out. Alexis stands and delivers several blows to Bree’s shoulders. She jumps up and connects with a dropkick to the knee. Bouncing backwards into the ropes she runs forward going for another shining wizard. Bree ducks it again and this time counters by jumping up and wrapping her legs around Alexis’ neck before dropping her with the recoil. The crowd oh’s as Alexis’s head bounces up and she is briefly on her knees before onto her back.Bree quickly covers and hooks both legs.

1!

2!

Alexis kicks out. Bree pulls her up and immediately flips her up and over before dropping her with a suplex. She turns and scales the corner, getting up on the top turnbuckle. The fans cheer as she leaps off going for an elbow drop. Alexis rolls out of the way at the last second. Bree rolls over clutching her arm while using the one she didn’t just drive into the mat to pull herself up at the ropes. Alexis quickly rolls over onto the apron just behind Bree before pulling herself up and running over toward where Bree is holding on. She leaps over the top rope and while in the air wraps an arm around Bree’s neck before spinning and landing on her feet, using the momentum to propel Bree forward. Alexis connects with the Esperanza, locking the armbar over the arm Bree had drilled. Bree growls while trying to spin away and break out of the grasp.

Sharper: “A very quick paced match here tonight. Bree had the momentum on her side, unfortunately for her now caught. Having exposed that arm Alexis likely has her target scouted for this match assuming Bree doesn’t tap here.”

Knots: “Not every risk pays off. Alexis had that well scounted despite being driven headfirst into the mat with the Recoil! It’s a wonder she still knows where she is.”

Bree starts pulling them both toward the rope. Alexis sees she’s almost got a hand to the bottom rope and immediately takes one leg and presses it to Bree’s neck, stretching her arm out further. Bree yells from the extra torque but manages to make the distance up, practically diving forward onto the bottom rope, her hand grabbing it. The referee calls for the break, at which point Alexis rolls off of Bree and stands. Bree pulls herself up and Alexis hits her along the spine, knocking her into the rope. She whips Bree across the ring and as Bree is coming back she goes for low dropkick to the knee. Bree spins out of the way and as Alexis hits the mat Bree simply kicks her in the face causing her to fall back from the blow. She bounces back off the ropes and as Alexis is sitting up she drops down and drives both fists into the back of Alexis’ head with a double axe handle. She pulls Alexis up just enough to flip over her back and go for an inside cradle.

1!

2!

Alexis breaks out of the pin. Bree goes to pull her up and gets a jawbreaker for her trouble. Alexis falls back into the corner while shaking her head and clutching the back of her neck. Jump up onto the second turnbuckle, she leaps off and connects Ditzy Tour getting an oh from the crowd before she quickly grabs Bree’s arm. She falls back and locks on another armbar as Bree is dazed. Bree immediately panics, grunting but being much closer to the ropes on one side this time. She is able to get her foot up on the rope. The referee calls for the break.

Alexis releases the hold and sits up as Bree turns. Alexis runs and tries jumping up and driving both feet into Bree’s spine. Bree rolls over avoiding it as Alexis hits the ropes. Bree grabs one of Alexis’ legs before dropping her center ring with a dragon screw. Clutching the leg she spins Alexis around and lays down over her side, this time managing to lock on the STF. Alexis throws one arm up wildly reaching for a rope too far away. Bree cranks the neck back and for a second Alexis looks ready to break in half. Alexis falls back and for a brief moment Bree’s shoulders are on the mat.

1!

2!

Bree pushes off from the mat with the hold still locked on and Alexis manages to use the momentum of Bree going forward to gain a foot towards the rope but at the expense of more leverage being applied to her. She waves her arm frantically before dropping back once more, this time harder trying to pin Bree.

1!

Bree is much quicker in breaking the pin however Alexis is finally about to pull forward just enough to get a hold of the rope. Bree releases the hold as the referee is calling for the break. Alexis pushes herself up and just as she let’s go of the rope Bree rushes to get a hold of her. Alexis rakes her hands across Bree’s face causing her to fall back causing a mixed reaction from the crowd. Alexis runs up and flips over Bree’s shoulders while hooking them with her legs. She connects with a reverse code red, driving Bree’s face into the mat. Alexis rolls over and immediately goes for the arm. Bree sits up just as Alexis wraps her knees around the arm, pinning Alexis in the process.

1!

2!

Alexis releases the hold and rolls up to her feet. Bree leaps forward before throwing Alexis overhead with a belly to belly suplex. The crowd cheers as Alexis sits up and rolls over, pressing one hand to her back. She stands and turns only to get another belly to belly suplex center of the ring. She remains motionless this time and Bree reaches over to pull her up Alexis manages to get her knees around Bree’s neck before suddenly flipping her to the side with a head scissor takedown. She pulls herself up at the ropes slowly.

Sharper: “Alexis and Bree both here showing great ability to predict and counter, however Bree delivering more explosive moves.”

Knots: “Yeah but how long can Bree hold out the next time Alexis goes for that arm?”

Bree is up to her feet and she runs over going for a double leg takedown from behind. Alexis simply falls back onto Bree’s shoulders and as Bree pushes herself to her feet Alexis twists around and connects with a hurricanrana that sends Bree over. Bree pulls herself up as Alexis rushes over with a Jack in the Box cradle!

1!

2!

Bree kicks out. She rolls over and leans back as Alexis hits her with a forearm smash before grabbing a hold of her head. Bree shoves Alexis off into the ropes before kneeling down pressing one hand into the mat. Bree suddenly lunges going for the Classifier! Alexis flips over her back and lands on her feet. Bree turns and Alexis immediately connects with a roundhouse kick to the side of the head that knocks Bree down onto her hands and knees. Alexis quickly grabs the arm she has been working on and goes to lock on the Dreadnaught Plata! Bree rolls back and manages to pull herself free before Alexis can fully commit to the hold. Alexis stands and runs forward. Bree catches her and drops her with the Rectifer! The crowd ohs and cheers as she drops down to make the pin.

1!

2!

3!

“Dead don’t die” begins to play throughout the arena as Bree stands, the referee going to her side to raise her hand in victory.

Phillips: “Advancing to the next round of the United States Championship Tournament and winning this contest via pinfall, Bree Lancaster!”

Sharper: “Both gave it there all tonight, Alexis possibly seconds away with that final hold of taking this match. Bree however had the move well scouted and was able to turn it around before catching her in the end!”

Knots: “Definitely impressive. Wouldn’t expect any less from these two former World Champions.”

Bree throws her other arm up for the fans, continuing to briefly celebrate before turning to leave the ring.

Owen Cruze can be seen talking to Kimberly Williams with Angelica Jones watching. Kim actually extends an arm at Cruze. Cruze smirks and the two go to shake hands before Kim breaks out into an intricate secret handshake before pointing to him. Owen just nods.

Sharper: “Owen Cruze saying his goodbyes and I guess mending fences.”

Knots: “I think Kim just inducted him into a cult.”

Sharper: “Maybe. Cruze though will be missed. And more to come here on Breakdown!”

The scene fades to black.

COMMERCIALS

Bree Lancaster walks backstage, happy with her win. She takes a few steps, smiling before going over to her locker room. She steps inside.

Bree: “Liz!”

Bree steps forward.

Bree: “Liz?”

Bree looks around before turning and heading over to Willow Aspen who is also in the same locker room.

Bree: “Did you see Liz? Datura?”

Aspen: “Mr. D came and talked to her. She looked nervous and left.”

Bree: “What-“

Aspen: “Why would I lie?”

Bree: “Fair just…odd. Thanks.”

Bree turns, confused yet concerned as we cut away.

Crystal Zdunich vs. Jarvis Valentine

The entire arena fades to black as we are left in nothing but darkness. All of a sudden Crystal's voice can be heard all throughout the speaker systems.

"YOUR SMILE MAKES MY HEART EXPLODE... THANK YOU FOR WAKING ME UP!!!!"

As soon as that is said explosions can be heard going off as we are treated to some flame pyros.

Smile Bomb by 17thekid plays across the speakers and it is at that moment when the crimson red haired "Burning Rose" Crystal Zdunich walks from the curtains. She makes their way to the ring.

Phillips: “The following contest is schedule for onefall and has a ten minute time limit. First, on her way to the ring, from Los Angeles, California, she is the Burning Rose, Crystal Zdunich.”

Crystal is focused as she walks to the ring with a purpose. She however slaps the outstretched hands of fans along the way. She runs up the stairs and walks to the middle of the apron. She flicks her hair before she drops down into a split that gains the pop of the entire crowd. She slides into the ring and as soon as she is inside she kips up to her feet. She tosses her Shoto inspired hoodie towards her wife as she awaits the start of the match.

Sharper: “Crystal Zdunich about to be in action here tonight on Breakdown, taking on the returning Jarvis Valentine. Meanwhile, a lot more to come here on Breakdown. World Title tournament to come.”

Knots: “Yeah. And you think people who aren’t in it. Aren’t in the US Title tournament, they’re thinking one of two things – maybe this is the moment to step up. They take inspiration. Or they cut to the front of the line with the Taking Hold of the Flame battle royal.”

Sharper: “The forty person battle royal. The yearly tradition. That will take place in just about a month. Winner goes to Rise to Greatness XX to challenge the new World Champion.”

“Judas” by Fozzy plays throughout the arena. The crowd buzzes as a few moments pass before we see Jarvis Valentine walk out from the back and glance behind him. He then looks around and looks at the ring before starting to make his way down to the ring.

Phillips: “Her opponent, from Lincoln, Nebraska, he is the Voice of the Midwest, Jarvis Valentine!”

The crowd cheers a bit as he heads to the ring. He nods and rolls into the ring. He then looks around before turning and moving to the ropes, looking out, and then turning back and looking across the ring at Crystal Zdunich.

Sharper: “Jarvis Valentine shocked us by returning at Playing the Wildcard. Approaching The One.”

Knots: “Picking up where he left off.”

Sharper: “And now, not too far from home. From his old stomping grounds, but is he focused elsewhere?”

The bell sounds as Zdunich steps out and Jarvis resets himself and moves forward only for Zdunich to blast him with a hard forearm. The crowd ohs and Zdunich nails him again and again. The crowd boos a bit as Jarvis falls back into the corner. Zdunich then shoulders him in the ribs once and then again and again. She steps out and then goes tow hip him across, but Jarvis spins through and sends her in. Zdunich hits the corner. Jarvis runs after and Zdunich gets a boot up. Jarvis staggers back as Zdunich climbs to the middle rope and dives back with a twisting crossbody into a pin.

1!

2!

Jarvis kicks out. Jarvis rolls over and starts to get up and Zdunich hits a dropkick. Jarvis rolls to the floor.

Sharper: “Zdunich coming in focused. Coming in hot. Hard dropkick.”

Knots: “And Jarvis maybe getting caught off-guard. To the floor. Get a moment. Be with your people!”

Jarvis turns and looks around. Zdunich however runs across the ring and bounces off and dives through the ropes with a tope suicida, knocking Jarvis into the barricade. Zdunich rolls over. (1) Jarvis winces as Zdunich gets up and grabs him and rolls him into the ring. Jarvis rolls over and starts to get up. Zdunich climbs onto the apron. She watches him and springboards to the top rope and dives forward, but Jarvis catches her. He then hits a ribbreaker. The crowd ohs. Zdunich rolls over in pain. She holds her side and starts to get up and Jarvis grabs her and whips her across the ring. Zdunich bounces off and Jarvis lifts her up and hits a huge flapjack. The crowd ohs. Zdunich pops up and Jarvis snapmares her over and locks in a reverse chinlock.

Sharper: “Jarvis with a big flapjack. And then taking her down and quickly slowing her down.”

Knots: “Locking in the chinlock. Sap the energy. Slow it down. Get her to have to carry your weight.”

Sharper: “And that’s an advantage Jarvis Valentine has over Zdunich.”

Jarvis continues to hold onto Zdunich as the official checks her. Zdunich yells out no before turning. Jarvis holds on as Zdunich slowly starts to get her knees under her. Jarvis keeps the chinlock on as Zdunich slowly gets up to a foot. She elbows Jarvis in the ribs once and then again before going to run out, but Jarvis pulls on her arm. He then pulls her back into a scoop up backbreaker. Valentine follows up with the pin.

1!

2!

Zdunich kicks out. Valentine turns and starts to get up. Zdunich rolls over as Valentine forearms her in the jaw. She falls to the ropes. Valentine kicks her in the ribs. He then hooks her up and hits a snap suplex. Zdunich turns and starts to get up. Valentine grabs her and whips her into the ropes. She bounces off and Valentine goes for a clothesline. Zdunich somersaults under and jumps to the middle rope and dives back with a snap frankensteiner. Zdunich gets up and runs into the ropes, bouncing off before handspringing into the Smell the Roses. She hooks the leg.

Sharper: “Zdunich with the Smell the Roses.”

Knots: “Where the hell did just pull that out of?”

1!

2!

Jarvis kicks out. Both get up and Zdunich goes for a kick. Jarvis blocks it and then throws her arm up and she hits a backflip before Jarvis clotheslines her down. Zdunich turns and gets up only for Jarvis to take her down by the legs and go to lock in the Constitution. He attempts to get it locked in, but Zdunich fights off and kicks him in the stomach. Jarvis lets go and walks around then ring. He moves to Zdunich who nips up and hits a frankensteiner. Zdunich gets up as Jarvis at her and Zdunich hits a dropkick to the knee. He falls forward. He fights up to his feet, Zdunich then hits the Flashing Lights. Jarvis falls to the mat. Zdunich turns and exits to the apron. She climbs up to the top rope.

Sharper: “Hard kick to the head. Jarvis’s lights have dimmed!”

Knots: “She calls it Flashing Lights. He’ll need a few to recover!”

Sharper: “To the top!”

Zdunich gets to the top rope and looks down before diving off and hitting the Rose Prism Power! The crowd roars. Zdunich turns and hooks the leg.

1!

2!

3!

The bell sounds. Zdunich rolls off.

Phillips: “Here is your winner, via pinfall, Crystal Zdunich!”

Zdunich rolls off and pumps her fist before her arm is raised.

Sharper: “Distracted or not, Jarvis Valentine put up a fight and Zdunich, as focused as we’ve seen her.”

Knots: “Maybe finally things are clicking. Not a bad time of year for that!”

Sharper: “Indeed. Very good timing if so.”

Zdunich looks around and plays to the crowd a bit as her music plays and the scene cuts away.

Sharper: “Let’s now go backstage to Jessica Winters who is standing by with Glory Braddock!”

Backstage, Jessica Winters is indeed doing just that, standing with the British Bombshell in front of the SCW Interview area.

Winters: “Thank you Adam. Glory, at Playing the Wildcard, you and Polly Playtime were in a war. You walked out the winner. Now, you’re in the US Championship tournament. And Polly Playtime is too. You two could face. That would be in the finals, but otherwise, you have a chance to become the US Champion again, the title that you held last year, but one that also corrupted you a bit.”

Braddock sighs.

Braddock: “I went off the rails, Jessica. I came out here talking about a UK title. I had people jump through hoops. I let my frustration get the best of me and frankly, I was a slap in the face to this sport. But that’s all the reason for me to step up and prove that I have realized that isn’t the best way forward. That I did learn from that brief moment. That I’ve realized the error of my ways. Polly Playtime may think I am the same person. People still going around claiming I’m still running around calling myself the Best in the World. People can evolve. People can change. And I’m living proof. And while I would love one more shot at Bree, even though she beat me straight up…and I’d love to earn a Tag Team opportunity, I’m not going to turn this down.”

Braddock stops.

Braddock: “And it will start next week against Deanna Frost, right?”

Winters: “That is indeed who you will face.”

Braddock: “Good. The Frosts also I’ve heard had a bit of doubt over whether I’ve realized the error of my ways. And I’ll prove it by giving Deanna a fight she deserves. She’s unfortunately going to come up short. Sorry, Deanna. But I will give you the fair fight you deserve.”

Winters: “Thank you Glory. Next week – Deanna Frost will face Glory Braddock in the US Championship tournament. Plenty more to come this week though. We’ll be back!”

The scene fades to black.

COMMERCIALS

Breakdown returns to see Mr. D talking to Chance Owens and Kelsai Adamson backstage.

Owens: “So it’s happening?”

Mr. D: “You earned a title shot, Chance. That’s not going away. Kim’s cash-in delayed things and for that I’m sorry, but we didn’t forget. You’re next up to challenge Syren. She has the tournament, so that will complicate things, but the moment I can book that match, it’s yours.”

Owens takes a deep breath.

Owens: “Okay…I’m looking forward to it. Facing another legend.”

Kelsai: “You’ll get it done. Shock the world Chance.”

Owens: “Easy for you to say.”

Kelsai: “Anyone can beat anyone on any given day. And she has a lot of irons in fires.”

Owens: “That’s true-“

Bree Lancaster heads over towards them. Mr. D turns.

Kelsai: “Bree?”

Bree: “Sorry to interrupt. I need to talk to D.”

Kelsai nods and motions to Chance. Chance and Kelsai head off as Mr. D turns to Bree.

Mr. D: “What can I do for you?”

Bree: “You talked to Liz, earlier?”

Mr. D: “Yes. Letting her know that your World Tag Team Championship shot will be fulfilled as soon as I can arrange it. Obviously, it’s complicated by Ace Marshall in the World Title Tournament, but the match will happen. I’ve following up with everyone tonight to assure them that their earned shots will take place.”

Bree: “Okay…”

Mr. D: “What’s wrong?”

Bree: “Datura apparently left. So, I just wanted to make sure there wasn’t something else. She’s been….never mind. Thanks.”

Mr. D: “Should we contact security?”

Bree: “No…she probably just went for a walk to clear her head. Now that I know what it is.”

Mr. D: “Alright. Don’t hesitate to contact me.”

Bree nods. Mr. D heads off as Bree looks on concerned.

SCW returns to ringside with its camera’s doing a flyby of the sold out crowd who continue to cheer loudly for the events so far. The focus then returns to the ring where Jessica Winters stands with mic in hand smiling and getting ready to speak and introduce the next match, when suddenly… Out go the lights with a flip of a switch causing the crowd to buzz with excitement…

Knots: “Hold on a moment…”

Sharper: “What’s going on, Jon?!”

Knots: “Why are you asking me?!”

Just then the screen lights up as the opening to “Alpha King” by Rev Theory begins to play over the P.A system. Then and only then we see a series of familiar words in italic writing phase in and out on the big screen...

.Infamous.

.British.

.Legendary.

Spotlights all start to focus on the stage entrance now changing colours, shades of red, white and blue and during that time a silhouette of a man can be seen walking out onto the stage with a familiar aura of confidence. Just then the final words explode onto the tron causing the crowd to react accordingly as the music hit's into full swing...

.LUCAS KNIGHT.

The crowd's cheers fill the arena as the lights come back on fully to show Lucas Knight standing on the stage looking at the crowd, he wears a custom three piece suit and a huge grin on his face as he surveys the Omaha crowd.

Knots: “What in the world, Lucas is here!”

Sharper: “WOW I did NOT expect this!!!”

Just then a video of Lucas' career plays out on the tron as the music ramps up even more. Then Lucas begins to walk down towards the ring, slapping hands of some fans in the front row aisle. Once he reaches the bottom, Lucas stops and stares at the ring before him and nods to himself before walking up the nearby steel steps slowly almost like he is savouring the moment. Lucas then walks across the apron and runs his hand across the top rope before looking out at the crowd once again.

Sharper: “Wow, it’s been a while since we last saw Lucas Knight in an SCW ring.” 

Knots: “The last time we see him was when his brother revealed himself as El Lucho Grande, instead of fighting him, he just walked away and left the company…”

Lucas enters the ring and pats his chest to the crowd as a sign of respect while mouthing the words thank you. He then approaches Jessica and asks for the mic which she hands to him before exiting the ring, the focus now being on Knight who stands in the middle of the ring. 

Crowd: “Welcome back! Welcome back!”

Sharper: “If you hear this crowd, they’ve already forgiven him for walking away like he did…”

Knots: “It’s Lucas, what else are you going to do, hate him? He didn’t want to fight with his family.” 

Knight continues to look down at the canvas and nods to himself once again, he looks around at the crowd and smiles before raising the mic.

Knight: “Thank you. Now I can’t imagine you expected to see me here tonight; honestly, I can’t say I imagined I would ever be setting foot inside a ring again, let alone an SCW one. But for those of you that know me, once I get the whiff of this business I can’t stay away.” 

The crowd roars!

Knight: “Now it seems like a lot has happened since I was last inside one of these rings huh? A kid you all knew and loved in Owen Cruze retired? Going out on top which is a hell of a way to go. For that I’m sorry I couldn’t say goodbye to him personally or have one last match with him and shake his hand, but I guess shit happens. But I'm not here to talk about Cruze as fun as it used to be once upon a time.”

Knight chuckles to himself. 

Knight: “Nah, not tonight because I'm here about yours truly, I’m here to talk about me because let's be honest. While back home in the United Kingdom there is another king being crowned, let's all face the facts. There is only one real king in this world, and that's your Alpha King, Lucas Knight.” 

Lucas points to himself and grins that devilish grin of his while walking the ring and engaging the fans who seem to be hanging off every word of his. 

Knight: “I didn’t come out here to just say hi or catch up with you all either ladies and gents, I wanted to touch on something that everyone is talking about right now. The buzz of the town and I’m not talking about either of the tournaments that are running, I’m talking about that.”

Lucas doesn’t even look at it, he does however point towards the sign that hangs promoting Taking Hold of the Flame.

Sharper: “Oh my! I think we all suspected but…”

Knots: “Is he going to enter?”

Lucas Knight nods again as the crowd roars loudly. 

Knight: “That’s right, if you weren’t interested before you sure as hell will be now because I am here to inform you all that I will be at Taking Hold of the Flame!” 

Once again the crowd cheers loudly.

Knight: “See you then!”

Lucas looks for the nearest camera and winks at it before dropping the mic to the canvas and exiting the ring once Alpha King hits one more time. He circles around the ring to meet with Sharper and Knots who he shakes hands with before heading off backstage.

Sharper: “Wow, Lucas Knight returns unexpectedly and lets us know he is going to be competing in the Flame?!”

Knots: “Well things just got a lot more interesting; Lucas Knight is back in SCW and you now have to ask if someone else is not far behind…”

Cassie Wolfe can be seen on her phone backstage.

YUYO: “YUYO IS HERE!”

Wolfe jumps and tosses her phone up in the air before turning.

Wolfe: “Do you have to yell and announce yourself like that?”

YUYO runs over to Wolfe.

YUYO: “Fellow princess! We princesseses are here! All the light and sunshine in the world! For justice!”

YUYO then hugs Wolfe. Wolfe gingerly hugs back, tapping her on the shoulder as Meowkazawa and Beezelbubble look on. Wolfe looks at them.

Wolfe: “Look, YUYO…uh…do they have to follow you everywhere?”

YUYO: “They are my bodyguards. They make sure no one takes advantage of YUYO….and WOLFE!”

Wolfe: “I see…well, uh…I haven’t said anything as well, we’ve been both just figuring things out and your party a few weeks ago and…anyway, look, it’s great you’re behind me and in my corner, but it’s kinda weird.”

YUYO: “Fellow princesses should be together! You don’t know if someone may try to take our crown!”

Wolfe: “Well that’s true, just…”

YUYO then nods.

YUYO: “I get it. I know what you’re thinking. Taking Hold of the Flame. You don’t want things to be weird if you and I are at the end. Well don’t worry. I will make sure you are at the end. And one way or another, if we face each other, we fight like PRINCESSES….TO THE DEATH!”

YUYO points at her, smiling widely.

Wolfe: “Oh…okay…sure…we’ll go that way. But okay…we’ll help each other get to the end. Help each other get the big win, okay?”

YUYO: “For justice!”

YUYO gives a thumbs up and then smiles and heads off. Wolfe just watches her go, more relieved she got through the conversation before the scene fades to black.

COMMERCIALS

Selena Frost can be seen pacing backstage with Deanna.

Selena: “Still can’t believe he threw it out. Just…”

Deanna: “Either way. You need to focus on tonight and…”

Selena turns and the camera pans out as Owen Cruze walks over to Selena. The two look at one another. Owen extends a hand to her.

Owen: “Selena…it’s been a pleasure.”

Selena looks at his hand and shakes it.

Deanna: “Selena-“

Selena snaps out of it.

Selena: “Sorry. Just…”

Owen: “I get it. Just do what you do best.”

Selena: “Yeah…and congratulations on retirement.”

Deanna: “Yeah. Takes a lot to make that decision.”

Owen: “I know. But I know I’m making the right one. I’ll miss this…but not as much as I’ll miss that.”

Owen nods.

Owen: “Goodluck….to both of you.”

Owen then turns and steps off as Deanna watches him go. Selena looks at him go before turning off.

Deanna: “You okay?”

Selena: “Yeah. Just have to focus on Josh.”

The scene cuts away.

Polly Playtime vs. The One

SCW United States Championship Tournament

Phillips: “The following is a first-round match of the tournament to crown the next United States Champion… introducing first…”

The arena goes dark, and slowly smoke begins to rise from the entry way. "Battle Cry" by Little V begins to play over the PA system...

I hear the Battle Cry

Under the Devil's Sky
The One Winged Angel Screams
It fuels my Hopes and Dreams
The Best Bout Machine

ARE YOU READY FOR THIS?

With the stinger of the song hitting, an explosion and pyrotechnics hit, cuing the spotlights to hit, and standing in the entry way is The One with her back turned to the audience, head down, and her right hand up in the air with the number one in the air. She turns at the waist, looking directly at the ring, and slowly lowers her hand, finger still extended, to point to her destination. She fully turns and begins her walk to the ring, quickly, but methodically, occasionally slowly down to look around, not necessarily trusting anyone around her to not come rush her and attack her.

Phillips: “Weighing in at 160 pounds, from Your Worst Personal Nightmmare, please welcome… THE ONE!”

As she reaches the ring, she again looks over both shoulders, taking glimpses of the fans, and assuring her safety before entering. She makes a full lap of the ring, walking, and staring at everyone at ringside, and occasionally looking toward the upper decks. As she feels the situation is comfortable and safe, she walks to the corner facing the ramp, extending both hands and pointing with one finger toward the entryway, and then turning both palms up and making the motion with both hands to "bring it." She then slumps into the corner, sitting on the mat, and awaiting her opponent to enter the ring.

Sharper: “You can tell the One is locked in for this match-up. Huge opportunity for her.”

Knots: “She knew what being a champion was like last fall as the SCW Television Championship— but the United States title is a big step up.”

Sharper: “I doubt that fazes her one bit, Jon. I think she’s mentally prepared to make the next leap. But so is her opponent.”

A coin can be heard dropping into a coin slot and then the words “START GAME” show up on SCW’s Jumbotron. A bunch of girls can be heard giggling before “C’est La Vie” by B*Witched begins to play.

The music plays for quite some time and it is not until it comes to the first chorus that Polly emerges from the backstage area wearing a frilly pink skirt and a very cute and fashionable strapless crop top that has black paw prints on it. She is carrying a personally made microphone, clearly wanting to make the world wait to see her. While she gets the cat calls and the whistles from a lot of the guys in the crowd, she definitely appears to be ignoring them, instead choosing to focus on only herself, allowing the cameras to film her, but not too much. The crowd boos as she arrives down at the ringside area. She walks up the steel steps and into the ring and is very careful to not show off any of her assets. She hands over her personalized microphone to Jason Phillips and tells him to announce her using ONLY that microphone. He looks at her and just shrugs before taking it.

Jason Phillips: “Here she is ladies and gentlemen. From Panguitch, Utah, she is the girl that just LOVES to play… Polly Playtiiiiime!”

She immediately snatches her microphone back away from him and nods, telling him “Good job”, before she heads to her assigned corner. It’s here that she begins to warm up for the upcoming matchup.

Sharper: “Speaking of the television title, Polly Playtime was the one to end the One’s reign as champion.”

Knots: “They have history together. Will the One avenge that loss?”

Sharper: “We will have to see.”

The bell rings. Polly Playtime rushes the One, but immediately the One tosses her down to the mat with a judo-style throw. Polly sits up and the One swings a kick, but Polly flattens out in time to avoid the kick. She spins out her legs to find her feet. The One goes for a clothesline, but Polly ducks underneath. Springboard off the top rope with a crossbody takedown but the One catches Polly in midflight. Throw away slam sends Polly flying the length of the ring while the One walks over and stomps down on Polly.

Sharper: “The One seems to have learned from her last bout, anticipating Polly’s speed and using raw power to control the tempo of the match in the early going.”

Knots: “The One is fixated on this match— nothing is telling us that she’s distracted. As long as Jarvis Valentine doesn’t approach her again.”

Sharper: “We still are unaware what that was all about, but no, so far we don’t see a hair of him and the One has her focus on this tournament.”

The referee shoos the One out of the corner. Polly gets up to her feet, using the corner for assistance. The One comes charging in and flattens her against the turnbuckle with a stinger splash. Polly is then yanked forward and whipped across the ring again. The One comes bounding after her to rinse and repeat, but Polly steps out of the way, and the One hits the turnbuckle hard. Polly dropkicks the One in the ass, driving the One through the ropes and into the ring post. Polly waves her arms in celebration before pulling the One free of the corner, spinning her around, and planting her for a DDT.

Sharper: “Polly Playtime answers the One with an explosion of offense, yet still no pin fall.”

Knots: “Both know they have to wear the other down before they have hope of securing a fall.”

Sharper: “We speak of motivation earlier about the One, but we can’t ignore that Polly has reason to succeed here tonight and in the tournament. She is looking to bounce back from that tough loss to Glory.”

Knots: “Sometimes defeats can motivate individuals more than victories. And if she can turn that heartache into some momentum in this tournament and win the United States Championship. That would be huge.”

The One searches for her feet, but Polly steps back. She runs forward, goes for the headscissors takedown, but can’t take the One off her base. The One shifts Polly to her side and drops Polly for a sidewalk slam. The hook of the leg:

1…

2-

Polly kicks out. The One clubs Polly chest with some arms before leading Polly up to her feet. The One drapes Polly arm over her neck, lifting her up for one vertical suplex. She doesn’t release the front facelock, going for the second suplex; however, before the One can complete One by One, Polly flips in mid-air, slamming the One backwards onto her head. Both women remain down.

Sharper: “Falcon Arrow— no, Polly Playtime with the counter!”

Knots: “Excellent counter by Polly. Like the One, Polly must have learned from their previous engagement.”

Sharper: “This match continues. Winner advances to the next round, one step closer to becoming the new SCW United States Champion.”

Both competitors find their feet. The One goes running towards Polly, but Polly handsprings past her. Both springboards off the ropes, but Polly leaps up, this time catches the One with a crossbody takedown. The One rolls to her feet, Polly greets her with a dropkick. The One scrambles back up and there’s another dropkick. The third time wasn’t the charm as Polly catches her with a hurricanrana, capturing her in a pin.

Sharper: “Hurricanrana! The shoulders down!”

1…

2…

Sharper: “The One explodes out of that package.”

Knots: “The One lost some footing. Maybe she is distracted. Maybe she is remembering her previous loss to Playtime. Or thinking about Jarvis.”

Sharper: “She had Polly in a tough predicament but Polly has turn the tables.”

Polly swirls her hand around in the air and points to the down The One. The One sits up only to receive a stiff kick to the face. Polly then heads to the top rope, where she sommersults off, connecting with the Downplay! She’s back up, not waiting for a moment, pulling the One to her feel. She shoves the One’s head in between her legs.”

Sharper: “Polly Pop— No! Back body drop by the One!”

Knots: “The One starves off defeat with the back body drop there.”

Sharper: “Polly Playtime thought she had it in the bag, but the rug was swept out from underneath her feet.”

The One gets to her feet before Polly. Polly circles towards the One, gets knee’d right in the top of her head before the One quickly gets the arms underhooked. The One lifts her up vertically before dropping her straight on her head for the Hidden Blade! The One rolls her over and hooks the leg:

Sharper: “The Hidden Blade! The pin! This could be it!”

1…

2…

3-

Sharper: “No, Polly with the last second kickout. This match continues! Both competitors have their eyes on the United States Championship!”

Knots: “The One leads Polly up for another go— inside cradle!”

1…

2…

3!

Sharper: “Polly Playtime just stole the victory right out from underneath the One’s nose!”

Knots: “The One is in disbelief!”

Polly rolls over and gets up. The One turns and starts to get up. Polly moves to the ropes. The One turns and lunges towards Polly. She grabs her by the hair.

Sharper: “Polly wins it, but The One is unhappy!”

Knots: “She was hoping to move on. Get closer to the US Title!”

The One turns Polly around and nails her with a hard right. Polly falls down. The bell sounds again as The One paces and turns before Colleen and Aisling run down from the back. The crowd roars. They bolt down as The One stomps Polly a couple of times and then turns as Colleen slides in, followed by Aisling. The One turns and nails Colleen with a shot, but Aisling tackles her down. The One clubs her in the back a couple of times before Aisling gets a few shots in. Polly starts to get up and Colleen walks over and stomps The One in the head.

Sharper: “The Playgirls out here now. Protecting, helping Polly.”

Knots: “Why would you start this fight?! The One just taking on the world and-“

The crowd roars as Pro Kinneck runs out from the back. She bolts to the ring and slides into the ring. Colleen turns as Pro nails her with a throat punch. Colleen staggers back before Pro grabs Aisling and goes to pull her off, but Polly steps up and nails Kinneck with a hard right and then another and another. Pro grabs Polly and spins her into the corner. The crowd roars as Pro nails her with a series of hard shoulders. Aisling runs over and grabs Pro and pulls her off. The One starts to get up as the crowd roars.

Sharper: “And a fight! A brawl breaking out as Pro helping The One!”

Knots: “The One getting help from Pro here! Returning the favour from The One helping Pro!”

Sharper: “And Kinneck has to still be pissed off. Didn’t get the revenge she wanted at Playing the Wildcard against Adam Allocco and maybe she just wants to fight!”

The One turns as Colleen then runs over and nails The One. They trade blows as officials run down to the ring. The crowd boos as the officials enter the ring. Kinneck tries to fight off Aisling and Polly as they get some shots in too. The officials pull them off as The One is pushed away from Colleen. Colleen tries to get in, but is pulled off. Kinneck is pinned against the ropes.

Sharper: “Officials breaking up this brawl. Kinneck and The One fighting for survival in the fight they started.”

Knots: “Numbers are against them, but yeah, they started it!”

Officials keep the two parties away and try to regain order as the scene cuts away.

Backstage, Amy Chastaine, Simon Lyman and Jamison Logan speak to one another. Simon Lyman and Owen Cruze shake hands and hug briefly before they say something. He then does the same to Amy before looking over as Jaina Lancaster walks over. The two hug. Owen and Jaina say something to one another while in an embrace before stepping back.

Knots: “Owen Cruze saying bye to some legends.”

Sharper: “His final night here. He vacated the World and US Titles earlier tonight. Bree Lancaster has already moved on in the tournament. And next, our first World Championship tournament match. Xander Valentine will face Ace Marshall. That’s next. Here tonight.”

The scene fades to black.

COMMERCIALS

Xander Valentine vs. Ace Marshall

SCW World Championship Tournament

An emergency siren begins to go off, as a black and grey WARNING: EXPLICIT CONTENT appears on the screen.

5
4
3-3-3-

"ADRENALIZE ME"

The crowd roars as "Adrenalize" begins to play throughout the arena. Blue and green strobe lights begin spinning over the arena. The crowd cheers as Ace Marshall steps out on stage, the SCW World Tag Team Championship is around his waist. There are some boos but it's mostly a cheerful reception. He raises his arms up at the top of the stage, before casually strolling down the ramp.

Phillips: “The following contest is scheduled for onefall, with a thirty minute time limit, and is a quarterfinals match in the SCW World Championship Tournament. First, making his way to the ring, hailing Las Vegas, Nevada, he is one half of the SCW World Tag Team Champions, Ace Marshall!”

Ace slides into the ring under the bottom rope. He quickly walks over to the corner and stands on the second turnbuckle before throwing his arms up once more for the crowd. Dropping down he casually leans back chewing what appears to be bubble gum.

Sharper: “Ace Marshall is somehow the World Tag Team Champions-“

Knots: “We know how. It just took a lot. The Frosts tried to take it all out and they just were outlasted by the chaos.”

Sharper: “Very true. And Ravyn Taylor, hopefully, has given some help to Ace or this could be another chaotic night for him. Ravyn and Xander have faced multiple times in the past.”

A long church bell rings, once- twice- a third time as the crowd explodes. The lights go out as Xander’s voice echoes out over the sound system, increasing the intensity of the crowd’s roar.

“Never send to know for whom the bell tolls; it tolls for thee.”

The few opening keystrokes of “Soul on Fire” by Last Internationale chimed. A lull before the storm as the crowd seems to calm for only a moment before Delila Paz’s blues dominate the audio.

“Some are born to kill

Others are born to run

Some need to keep on takin'

Till you ain't got none”

A singular light appears before the curtains, on the other side is the outline of a large man. On the screen, we’re shown Xander Valentine holding onto the bars of a prison cell. He starts to bend the bars before the scene blurs. 

“But baby, I wasn't built to die

Lay down and be crucified

Nah, no matter how hard they try

To push me down

Still I rise”

“Soul on Fire (Soul, Soul, Soul, Soul)

Soul on Fire (Soul, Soul, Soul, Soul)”

The curtain drops to reveal Xander. A quick salvo of pyros explodes in front of him before he steps through the smoke with an intense look on his face. He goes from one side of the stage to the next, yelling out to the crowd and throwing up his arms. He then stops at the top of the ramp while Artemis steps up from behind him and throws his arm up into the air. Together they start down the ramp, Xander’s gaze affixed on the ring.

Phillips: “His opponent, accompanied by Artemis, fighting out of Fort Collins, Colorado from Rochester, New York, he is the Paragon of Violence, the Executioner, he is Xander Valentine!”

Suffocate me until I am blue

To preserve my bad worldview

Paranoid, All Eyes On Me

Rumours circle, vultures feed

Baby, I wasn't built to die

Lay down and be crucified

Nah, no matter how hard they try

To push me down

Still I rise

Soul on Fire (Soul, Soul, Soul, Soul)

Soul on Fire (Soul, Soul, Soul, Soul)

Soul on Fire (Soul, Soul, Soul, Soul)

Soul on Fire (Soul, Soul, Soul, Soul)

Xander leaps up onto the apron in a single bound. Artemis joins him by slipping below the bottom rope. Xander climbs up over the top rope and marches straight to the far side of the ring. He throws his arms up again, getting a massive pop. He goes to the opposite side and repeats to garner the same response. He hops down from the rope, and jogs into place, waiting for the bell. Artemis leans up and whispers into his ears before departing with a kiss on his neck.

Sharper: “Xander all business. This is his opportunity to not only regain the World Title, but we know Xander has been focused on one thing – to make sure Adam Allocco does not become World Champion again.”

Knots: “Giving him what he deserves after ending Alistaire Allocco’s career. But well, he’s facing someone who used to run with Adam. Ace…I mean Ace and Adam were even running together briefly before Adam went to rehab!”

The bell sounds. The SCW World Championship Tournament logo comes across the screen. Xander steps out and heads toward Ace. Ace backs up, hands up as he looks around and Xander goes for a haymaker. Ace spins around and nails Xander with a hard right. Xander just ignores it and swings again at Ace. Ace ducks and spins off to the apron and then Xander grabs at him. Ace moves out of the way and crawls along the apron and rolls into the ring. He gets up into the corner. Xander heads after and swings again, but Ace ducks and spins around. Xander turns as Ace kicks him in the ribs and grabs his head. Xander however blocks whatever Ace had in mind and hoists him up and throws him forward, causing him to land chest first into the mat.

Sharper: “Xander just throwing Ace down. The power!”

Knots: “Ace trying to stick and move. Going to need a bit more.”

Sharper: “And think, this is just one of the angry people after him.”

Knots: “Konrad, Selena probably wants a shot, Deanna…”

Sharper: “And meanwhile, I’m stunned Lexy Chapel isn’t out here. Where is she?”

Ace slowly gets up and Xander drills him with a forearm shot. Ace falls back to the ropes. Xander walks over and knees him in the ribs before grabbing him and hip tossing him across the ring. Ace lands legs first on the bottom rope. He rolls over in pain and gets up and Xander steps up and knees him again. He then turns and hits another hip toss. Ace hits the mat and moves to the corner. Xander follows after and goes for another hard right. Ace takes it and Xander hits a back elbow and then another before backing up and kneeing him in the ribs. The official calls for the break.

1!

2!

3!

4!

Xander steps off and whips Ace across. Ace hits the corner. Xander runs after and nails him with a running clothesline. The crowd ohs. Ace staggers out and Xander grabs him and throws him down. He follows up with a lateral press.

1!

2!

Ace kicks out. Xander looks at him and drags him up by his hair.

Sharper: “Xander is mauling Ace Marshall in this one.”

Knots: “Ace got one good shot in.”

Sharper: “And Xander just ignored it like a mosquito.”

Xander knees Ace in the ribs. Xander then whips him into the ropes. Ace bounces off and Xander scoops him up and Ace kicks his legs and lands behind him. Xander turns as Ace nails him with a hard right and then another and another. He then jumps up and hits a dropkick. Xander staggers back to the ropes. Ace gets up and turns and runs into the ropes and bounces off and Xander goes for a clothesline. Ace jumps up and goes for a crucifix into a sunset flip. He tries to take Xander over, but Xander leans forward. Ace tries to pull him down again, even moving his legs up to hook Xander’s arms. Xander just looks down at him. Ace then stops and waves at Xander. The crowd roars as Xander grabs Ace by the throat in a double choke and pulls him up to his feet. He hoists him up before Ace thumbs him in the eye.

Sharper: “Ace saving himself after he may have gotten ahead of himself.”

Knots: “Well it was a good try.”

Sharper: “Tried the sunset flip. No dice. A thumb in the eye will take anyone down to size though.”

Xander grimace sand Ace runs into the ropes, bouncing off and hits a chopblock from behind. Xander falls to the mat in pain. Ace gets up and turns and stomps him in the thigh and then the side before stomping him over and over in the head. The crowd gives a mixed reaction as Ace gets a number of shots to the head of Xander. Ace smiles and walks around the ring. He goes to the corner. He then steps out and hits a knee drop. He rolls through for the pin.

1!

2!

Xander powers out. Ace lands on his feet and moves to the ropes. Xander rolls over to his knees and Ace hits a running knee to the side of the head and Xander falls back. Ace goes for the pin.

1!

2!

Xander kicks out. Ace rolls over. He looks around and hits an elbow drop and then another.

Sharper: “Ace perhaps realizing he needs to keep the pressure on. Repeated elbow drops.”

Knots: “That’s looking like someone terrified of what will happen if Xander gets back up!”

Sharper: “And remember, Ace has only been back for a cup of coffee. Just over a month. And he’s been thrown into the deep end here in this tournament.”

Ace gets up and stomps Xander in the face twice before Xander catches the third shot. Ace moves back and grabs the ropes.

1!

2!

3!

4!

Ace gets his leg free as Xander starts to get up and Ace kicks Xander in the chest. Xander pops up to his feet. Ace then runs past Xander. Xander turns and Ace jumps up and goes to nail him with a diving forearm and connects. Xander hits the mat. Ace goes for the pin.

1!

2!

Xander kicks out. Ace rolls over as he then walks around the ring. Xander starts to stir before Ace runs over and nails him with a clubbing blow and then another and another before Xander suddenly hoists him up into a bearhug. The crowd roars as Ace yells out. Xander shakes him around before swinging Ace’s legs to the side and slamming him down with a bearhug slam. He then moves into a lateral press.

1!

2!

Ace gets his shoulder up. He rolls over and looks up as he turns. Xander grabs him by the hair again and starts to get up.

Sharper: “Xander again, taking down Ace just by muscling through the pain and offense. Gets a two and holds on.”

Knots: “And Ace Marshall is trying to do anything not to crap himself with the Executioner holding on!”

Ace reaches around and grabs at Xander. Xander headbutts him. Ace staggers back into the corner. We then see Lexy Chapel running down from the back. Ace looks up as Xander nails him with a hard right and then a left and then a hard right. He grabs him and whips him across the ring. Xander sees Lexy running to the ringside area and to the apron. Ace staggers out and Xander boots him in the face. Ace hits the mat. Xander falls into the ropes, bouncing off and hitting a massive elbow drop. He hooks the leg.

1!

2!

Ace gets his shoulder up. Xander turns and gets up. Ace rolls over and reaches out. Lexy runs around and slaps on the apron as Ace looks over at her and then turns around. Xander grabs him by the throat. The crowd roars. Xander hoists him up and slams him down with a chokeslam.

Sharper: “Huge chokeslam! The impact! Flat on his back.”

Knots: “Lexy! You came out late. Unless you’re going to turn back time, I don’t think you’re going to be much help!”

Xander then looks around and grabs Ace and drags him up. He then hooks his head. He looks at Lexy as Lexy climbs onto the apron. Xander hoists Ace up and holds him up. Xander looks at Lexy as Artemis heads around. Lexy yells at Xander to stop. Xander however drops Ace down with a brainbuster. The crowd ohs. Xander goes for the pin.

1!

2!

Ace shoots his shoulder up. Lexy keeps yelling at Xander as the official turns and tells Lexy to get down. Lexy keeps yelling at Xander only for Artemis to grab her and pulls her off. Lexy lands and backs up and falls into the barricade. Xander ignores this as he grabs Ace and pulls him up. Artemis just slowly stalks Lexy as Lexy backs up, putting her hands up. Xander then spins Ace around and hoists him up for the Valhalla has Fallen while the official tells Artemis to back away from Lexy. Xander moves to the middle of the ring and then rakes Xander’s eyes. Xander staggers as Ace falls to his feet and runs into the ropes. Xander turns around only for Ace to hit the One Eye’d Royal. The crowd ohs. Xander winces in pain.

Sharper: “Ace got out of the Valhalla Has Fallen! And One! Eye’d! Royal!”

Knots: “How! Xander is down!”

Sharper: “Ace with the cover!”

Ace dives onto Xander.

1!

2!

3!

Xander throws his arm up. The bell sounds and the crowd roars. Ace rolls over and out of the ring. Xander turns, wincing, and touching his face.

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

Lexy Chapel jumps up in the air as Artemis turns to the ring and then back as Ace gets up. Lexy runs over and raises Ace’s arm. Ace just falls to a knee and pulls away. Lexy turns and Ace points to his title. Lexy turns and heads around the ring, going one way before turning and going the other way around the ring, away from Artemis. Ace, however, gets up and staggers up the rampway.

Sharper: “Ace hit the One Eyed Royal. Xander was dazed and that’s that. Xander eliminated!”

Knots: “And this crowd is stunned. But Ace getting out of here. Lexy’s going for his title!”

Sharper: “Ace sent Lexy for his title!”

Knots: “And Xander Valentine, you can tell, not happy at all!”

Sharper: “Well, yeah. Now he has to trust Syren to take out Adam Allocco next week! Nevermind his desire to win the World Title!”

Ace heads to the back as Lexy heads over to the World Tag Team Championship and grabs it. She then looks around as Ace disappears through the curtain. Lexy heads after him as Artemis, now in the ring, checks on Xander as Xander starts to get up.

COMMERCIALS

Breakdown returns as Ace Marshall winces and walks backstage. He walks down one hallway before we hear a roar. Ace looks up and his eyes widen as we see Konrad Raab running over and swinging, going for Ace’s head. Ace ducks and backs up as Konrad turns, holding a shovel.

Sharper: “My God! Welcome back to Breakdown and Ace Marshall is under assault!”

Knots: “Where the hell did he get a shovel?!”

Sharper: “Konrad Raab with a shovel!”

Ace backs up, sliding back on his backside before getting up and Konrad swings again. Ace drops down and rolls over. Konrad swings again and nails the ground. Raab snarls as he steps up and then rears back, but the shovel is grabbed by a pair of hands. Raab turns as the man who attacked Raab from the crowd at Playing the Wildcard is shown. He cracks Raab with a hard right. He falls back as the shovel goes down.

Man: “Don’t worry, bro. Got your back!”

Ace: “Yeah…you do that, Damian…”

Ace looks at Raab as Raab gets up.

Sharper: “Bro? Just friends?”

Knots: “Brothers? Whatever. His name is Damian! And he better look out!”

Ace turns and heads off as Raab turns and tackles Damian down to the ground. Damian rolls through and nails Raab with a couple of hard shots as Raab then grabs him and goes for the eyes. Officials run over to stop the two as Ace disappears down the hallway.

The opening of "Whore" by In This Moment fills the arena as red and pink lights swirl around. The crowd boos.

{I'm the girl you've been thinking about, The one thing you can't live without
I'm the girl you've been waiting for
I'll have you down on your knees, I'll have you begging for more}

Kandis appears on the stage, a sultry smirk on her face as the crowd boos. She turns and shows off her notorious rear end, swaying it back and forth.

{I can be, I can be your eve... ry... thing}

The lights dim as the music seems to pause a moment, then Kandis turns around, arms spread and feet wide apart as vocalist Maria Brink shouts:

{I CAN BE YOUR WHORE!}

Kandis starts down the ramp as the rest of the chorus continues, the sway in her hips ever present as she smirks at all the boos, even blowing sarcastic kisses to the crowd.

Sharper: “Kandis made a statement at Playing the Wildcard. She jumped Datura backstage and then got her forfeit win. But she made a statement.”

Knots: “She’s got one focus. And the World Championship Tournament gives her the opportunity to see it through.”

Sharper: “We’ll see is he can. She’ll face Asher Hayes next week on Breakdown in her quarterfinals match and Hayes has been racking up some wins.”

{I am the dirt you created
I am your sinner, I am your whore
But let me tell you something, baby
You love me for everything you hate me for}

Kandis goes up the ring steps and enters the ring through the second and top rope slowly. The heavy music fades out as Kandis goes to the corner and demands a microphone. She gets one from Jason Phillips and turns back, straightening out her leather jacket. She then looks around the arena as the crowd boos.

Kandis: “No one watching at home came to hear a damn thing you all think. They came to hear from the next World Champion!”

Kandis looks around as the crowd boos. Kandis looks around as she turns to the camera.

Kandis: “I don’t need to explain anything more to any of you, but I’m going to just because I enjoy it. All of this could have been avoided if two people stayed out of my way. I came back…I won the End of the Year Special Tournament. I proved I was at one hundred percent. I PROVED I should be given a title shot. Even some of you fans proved you’re not that stupid by writing me in at the End of the Year Special title shot.”

Kandis paces around the ring.

Kandis: “But no…I was not allowed to be part of that. I didn’t get cleared fast enough. So I came back. And then I was told I had to earn my shot. So Asher Hayes…he got lucky. Never mind that I had made Owen Cruze my bitch a year ago. He was World Champion…and now that son of a bitch gets to walk off into the sunset without me giving him one more ass-kicking. Lucky…Owen…Lucky they let you call your own shot.”

Kandis shakes her head.

Kandis: “But then Simon Lyman wanted to eff around and find out and he did. I beat him at Retribution. He came back. Long awaited return and found out that I’m as good as I advertised! And then when I just was going to do him a favour…take him out. Give him the chance to take pause and think about EXACTLY what he was doing…Amy Chastaine ran out and guess what, she’s back too!”

Kandis scoffs.

Kandis: “Well, I’m done with the derailments. And Amy…she got to watch while I taught her student Jamison Logan more in sixty seconds than she did in her entire training…then Bree…I knocked her around and reminded her that no one cares about her nugget, or her title, or anything. And OH YEAH…I should even be World Champion right the hell now after Kimberly Williams’s God damned temper tantrum!”

Kandis looks around as the crowd boos.

Kandis: “And then we get to Playing the Wildcard. Datura wanted to feel useful. I reminded her she’s not.”

The crowd boos.

Kandis: “The Unsanctioned Championship…”

Kandis rolls her eyes.

Kandis: “Well, Datura, take that championship, hold onto it and your parade of useless friendships and I just kicked your ass to expedite the process. I made it faster. You got the loss. I got the win. And finally, something that needed to happen is here…but I have to jump through hoops. I should be World Champion now. I shouldn’t be wasting my time with Datura and Kimberly Williams who acts like she’s some moral compass when she is just another half-asser around here! No…see, I’ve been clear about one thing…the World title. And I have to get through three people to do it.”

Kandis nods.

Kandis: “Well, get ready because I’m not getting off this ride until the end. I’ll get what I should’ve had a year ago. And it starts by facing Asher Hayes. No more luck this time. What I did a few weeks ago, going after your leg. That’s just a taste. You can hobble off into the sunset and join Owen for all I care. But I am done…it is World Title or bust. And anyone in my way will be removed one way or another. I will be World Champion in 2023. I will be World Champion…at Taking Hold of the Flame! And everyone who doubts me…they can kiss my ass!”

Kandis throws the microphone up in the air behind her and turns. “Whore” plays throughout the arena.

Sharper: “Kandis reminding us what is guiding her.”

Knots: “And she’s got her straight line to the title now.”

Sharper: “But look at the carnage left in that wake to get here. And will those ghosts be a problem.”

Knots: “I don’t know, but Datura missing tonight now. Kim has her title shot. Amy will be watching too. It’s all going to add up. But will they wait until Kandis walks out champion.”

Sharper: “A lot to go to get there. And next week, Asher Hayes…Hayes who has already defeated Kandis this year and has quietly been as solid as ever…they face off in the quarterfinals.”

Kandis drops down to the floor. She looks around and starts to head to the back.

Backstage, we see Lexy Chapel in her locker room with Syren. Hairless Penguin is in the background, while Dancing Bear seems nowhere to be seen. Lexy looks at Ace Marshall’s SCW World Tag Team Championship and places it next to Syren’s Adrenaline Championship.

Chapel: “How amazing does that look? And the World Title will be part of it and-“

Syren: “Lexy.”

Chapel turns.

Chapel: “Hmmm?”

Syren: “So I need to ask…are you ready to deal with the idea that Ace and I could make it to the end?”

Chapel: “Syren, Syren, Syren….no…never would happen. I –“

Syren: “So one of us is losing?”

Chapel: “Well…uh….”

Syren: “Look, I agreed to this…despite some reservations and-“

Chapel: “Relax! I’ve got it all figured out. If you two face in the finals at Taking Hold of the Flame, Lexy Chapel, MANAGER of CHAMPIONS, has a plan. Always have one. Plus, Ace owes me for keeping his name alive for like a year and a bunch. Just disappearing. And then she who shall not be named-“

Syren: “Yes, Ravyn. Teaming with her. My wife and-“

There’s a knock at the door. Lexy turns and heads over and opens the door. She then yelps and turns, reaching to her side, grabbing a cross and holding it in front of her.

Chapel: “What the hell? Is she like some sort of frankensteiner Beetleguice?”

Ravyn smiles on the other side. Syren just glares at her.

Ravyn: “Interesting…never thought of that.”

Chapel: “We said your name three times and you’re here. BEGONE Satan!”

Ravyn grabs the cross and pulls it away.

Chapel: “Hey!”

Syren: “What do you want?”

Ravyn: “I’m here to recover shared property.”

Chapel: “Nuh-uh! Mine!”

Ravyn looks at Lexy as Lexy goes and grabs the Tag Title and clutches it.

Ravyn: “Not quite. It’s Ace’s. Now, you’ve appeared at ringside and proven surprisingly useful. But it’s Ace’s. So…as his partner…”

Chapel: “Nope!”

Syren: “Lexy…”

Chapel turns to Syren.

Syren: “Give her the title. Unless you want her staying here and getting under our skin.”

Chapel looks at Syren and then back before reluctantly handing off the title to Ravyn. Ravyn takes it and smiles.

Ravyn: “Good to know parts of you are still reasonable, Zoe.”

Ravyn smiles as Syren just glares at her wife.

Ravyn: “And don’t worry, Lexy. You won’t need to make any decisions. If Ace and Syren get to the finals, I know what corner I’ll be in.”

Ravyn turns and heads out of the locker room as Syren watches her leave. The door closes and Lexy turns.

Chapel: “Bitch!”

Lexy turns and smiles, acting smug.

Chapel: “Told her.”

The scene fades to black.

COMMERCIALS

Breakdown returns as we see Xander Valentine, hands on hips, still clearly annoyed from earlier, standing at the SCW interview area with Jessica Winters. Artemis stands to the side.

Winters: “Welcome back to Breakdown. Jessica Winters here and I’m with Xander Valentine and Xander, I don’t know what to say. You dominated Ace Marshall for much of your match, before Ace Marshall managed to hit the One Eye’d Royal and pin you. You now are eliminated from the SCW World Championship Tournament and your goal of preventing Adam Allocco from getting to the finals-“

Allocco: “How about that?! Huh!”

Xander turns as Adam Allocco stands several feet away, shouting at him.

Allocco: “Some karma goes the other way!”

Xander: “Not enough yours.”

Allocco: “What do you want?! Huh? Yeah, I did something horrible. I’ve had a crazy woman after me because I’m an asshole. I’m an ASSHOLE. Get it! And I feel horrible for Alistaire-“

Xander: “You don’t act like it.”

Allocco: “Sorry I don’t go and have over the top speeches like some people. What about you and Calli-“

Xander lunges and Artemis stops him. Allocco backs up.

Allocco: “Whatever. You’re gone and SCW better keep you away as I win the World Title as MY way to make up for everything!”

Allocco turns and storms off. Xander fumes.

Artemis: “Xander….”

Xander: “Syren better take him out. Maybe then she’ll prove she’s not a shadow of her past self…”

Xander turns and storms off. Artemis follows him as we return to the ring.

La Pequena Luz vs. Kimberly Williams

SCW Underground Championship

“Believe In Tomorrow” by Sunflower’s Garden begins to play as bright white lights begin flickering on and off on the stage in rhythm with the music. La Pequeña Luz skips out onto the stage with the kind of smile that could light up an entire room all on its own plastered to her face, dancing a bit to her theme song and waving her arms in an attempt to get the crowd pumped up, drawing cheers. As she looks down towards the ring, the smile fades as something seems to flicker through her mind, but she’s snapped out of the trance as Amelia Blythe slowly makes her way out, placing a comforting hand on Luz’s shoulder.

Phillips: “The following contest is scheduled for onefall with a thirty minute time limit and is for the SCW Underground Championship! First, the challenger, accompanied by Amelia Blythe, from Tulancingo, Hidalgo, Mexico, she is La Pequena Luz!”

With a quick kiss to her cheek, Luz’s smile returns as the two proceed to lock hands before heading down to the ring, Amelia trying her best to keep up with Luz’s energetic skipping. Once they reach ringside, Luz pulls Amelia into a brief but passionate kiss before letting her go as she hops up onto the apron, grabbing the top rope before vaulting herself into a somersault into the ring, landing on her feet. Luz begins skipping around the ring, motioning once more for the fans to make some noise as they answer this call while Amelia takes her place in Luz’s corner on the floor, chuckling to herself and shaking her head at Luz’s energy. Luz removes her robe and hands it off to Amelia, who gives some last minute advice and words of encouragement as she does so.

Sharper: “La Pequena Luz would be a potential Underground Champion if we went by the rankings after Kimberly Williams’s chaotic Trios cash-in. Instead, Kimberly Williams with that specific stipulation overrode that.”

Knots: “Adam Allocco won’t ever forget it!”

Sharper: “Kimberly Williams stapling Adam Allocco in the buttock which is the equivalent to a fall and Kim just needed one to win the Underground Championship. Luz is hoping to cut this reign short.”

Knots: “But this isn’t her usual domain!”

Sharper: “It isn’t. But Kim was happy to give this opportunity. Guess the expansion of the Underground is enough!”

The lights go out, except for a single spotlight at the top of the stage. The opening chords to “Patient Number 9” by Ozzy Osbourne begins to play.  A haunting voice is heard…

"Is there a way out of here?"
"Hey, how long you been here?"
"I wanna go home"
"Hey, hahaha"
"Hahaha"
"Excuse me, could you tell how to get out of here?"
"Hahaha"
"I want to go home"
"Hahaha"
"Mommy, mommy"

The song begins to rage full bore now. Suddenly the lights come back on and Kimberly Williams, holding her SCW Underground Championship, is standing at the top of the stage to a loud, mostly positive, reaction from the fans. A sinister smirk is on her face as she ponders what she is about to do tonight. 

Phillips: “Her opponent, from Boston, Massachusetts, the reigning and defending SCW Underground Champion, the Woman Scorned, the Wild Card, Kimberly Williams!”

She winks at the fans before pointing towards the ring and making a beeline towards it. She slides into the ring underneath the bottom rope. Kimberly then poses in the center of the ring to another loud reaction from the fans. She takes off her title and hands it to the official. The music slowly dies down and Kimberly goes to a corner to await the start of the match. The official, Steve Hollinsworth, raises the title over his head as the SCW Underground Championship logo comes across the screen.

Sharper: “And Kimberly William I’m sure has many terrible ideas in her head.”

Knots: “She’s also hoping that neither Kandis nor Xander Valentine come out here. Neither cares for her. Not after Playing the Wildcard.”

Sharper: “Kimberly Williams attacking Kandis after Kandis attacked Datura. Kimberly Williams and Datura good friends. That spilling over there. But Kim needs to focus on this impending chaos.”

The bell sounds. Kim jumps up and down and nods. Luz nods back and takes a deep breath before Kim runs across. The crowd roars. Kim nails Luz with a forearm and then another and another. Luz falls back into the corner. Kim then grabs her and snapmares her out. She then steps forward and goes for a kick. Luz leans back and pulls Kim down with a school boy.

1!

2!

Kim kicks out. Both get up and Luz goes for a hard forearm. She cracks Kim. Kim smiles and Luz then wrenches the arm of Kim and sends her into the ropes. Kim slides through to the floor. She then immediately lifts the ring skirt. She pulls out a steel chair and slide it in. Luz waits as Kim rolls back in and Luz hits an overhead chop to Kim’s chest.

Sharper: “Kim bringing in the first weapon. A steel chair.”

Knots: “But left herself open. Luz right there. And just smacked her one!”

Luz hits another chop and then pushes Kim into the ropes. She whips Kim across. Kim bounces off and Luz hits a jumping calf kick. She goes for the pin.

1!

2!

Kim kicks out. Both get up and Luz grabs Kim and goes to run her into the corner. Kim blocks it and elbows Luz in the ribs. She elbows her again and then snapmares her over. Kim turns and walks over to the steel chair. Luz gets up, bent over and Kim slams the chair into her back. Luz falls to her hands and knees and down. Kim shrugs and unfolds the chair. She then grabs Luz and pulls her up before whipping her into the ropes. Luz bounces off and Kim hits a drop toe hold into the seat of the chair. The crowd ohs. Kim goes for the pin.

1!

2!

Luz kicks out. Amelia looks on.

Sharper: “And Amelia Blythe watching her partner struggle early.”

Knots: “Kim knows how to use a chair. She knew how to do that in first grade.”

Sharper: “Didn’t realize that she was so well trained.”

Knots: “The tabled those grades after Kim maimed a seven year old!”

Luz turns and starts to get up. Kim clubs her in the back once and then again before spinning her around. She goes to whip her across, but Luz stops herself and pulls Kim into a knee. Luz nails her with a hard right before grabbing Kim’s arm. She wrenches it and then turns and runs over to the corner, runs up it and then twists and turns overhead, dropping down and arm dragging Kim out of the corner and into the open chair. The crowd ohs. Kim rolls over in pain. She starts to get up and Luz then runs over and jumps up and hits a dropkick. Kim goes up and over the top rope to the floor, landing in front of the entrance way.

Sharper: “Well! She may not be the best with a chair. But she’s certainly got the creativity!”

Knots: “And it hurts all the same!”

Kim slowly starts to get up on the floor and Luz jumps to the top rope and twists before diving off with a top rope moonsault onto the Underground Champion. The crowd roars. Luz rolls over. Kim remains down. She looks up, blinking before turning over. Luz turns and grabs her and lifts her up. She goes to throw her to the ropes, but Kim jumps up and uses the ropes to spin around and catches Luz in the jaw. Luz staggers back. Kim then drops down and reaches under the ring again. She pulls something up, but Luz runs over and clubs her in the back. She clubs her again before turning and throwing Kim into the steel steps. Luz turns and looks under the ring where Luz pulls out what Kim had, a ladder. The crowd roars. Luz looks around and turns before lifting it up, but Kim runs out and dropkicks it back into her. The crowd ohs. Luz falls back wincing. Kim returns to view under the ring.

Sharper: “Kim pulling out a ladder. Luz grabbed it, but Kim again turns it around.”

Knots: “Kim just has that built-in way of sucking up the pain. Just has to.”

Sharper: “Part of what the Underground Division is about.”

Kim then pulls out a table. The crowd roars. She lifts it up and places it into the ring. She then pulls out another table and lifts it up. She unfolds the legs and places it next to the ring. Luz gets up and Kim nails her with a hard right and then scoops her up and slams her on the ladder. Luz rolls through in pain. Kim lifts the ladder up and looks at Luz. She shrugs and rams it into the ribs of Luz. Luz staggers back and falls over. Kim then places the ladder in the ring. Kim walks over and grabs Luz, helping her up before running her into the ring.

Sharper: “And Kim has now turned this into a TLC match.”

Knots: “At least no one has to climb up unless they don’t want to.”

Sharper: “But the chaos and damage is there.”

Luz rolls over and Kim enters the ring and nails her with a hard right. She then walks over and grabs the ladder and lifts it up and places it in the corner. Kim turns around and grabs Luz and nails her again and then hooks her up by the head. She then hits a snap suplex into the ladder. The crowd ohs as Luz grimaces in pain. Kim then turns and walks over and before Luz can rolls off. Kim places Luz’s legs and hooks them into the ladder. Kim turns and grabs the chair she was sent into and stomps it flat. She then grabs it and looks over before climbing up to the top rope. She looks over at Luz as Luz remains hooked. Kim dives off and drives the chair into Luz. The crowd ohs. Luz goes free and slides down. Kim goes for the pin.

Sharper: “Sandwiching her between the steel!”

Knots: “And that could be it!”

Kim hooks the leg.

1!

2!

Luz gets her shoulder up. Luz rolls over as Kim grabs her and pulls her up. She then turns and scoop slams her on the dented steel chair. Luz rolls over in pain. Kim turns and grabs the table and lifts it up, placing it in in the corner. Kim taps it and turns around as Luz then hits a jawbreaker. Kim staggers as Luz then grabs the chair and throws it at Kim’s face. Kim staggers around and Luz jumps up and hits a front dropkick. Kim falls back and lands on the leaning ladder. She winces as Luz looks up and then turns and runs to the ropes, jumping to the top rope and hitting a moonsault onto Kim, into the ladder. The crowd ohs.

Sharper: “Luz again! Using her lucha libre background and finding a way to do a lot more damage!”

Knots: “From the ropes, to the body, sandwiching Kim into the ladder!”

Kim rolls down to the mat. Luz dives onto her.

1!

2!

Kim kicks out. Kim rolls over and starts to get up. She moves to the corner and Luz runs over and jumps up and hits a monkey flip out of the corner. Kim narrowly misses landing on the ladder. Kim rolls over and Luz runs at her and spins through with a flying headscissors into a DDT onto the ladder. The crowd ohs. Luz winces as Kim falls back and down to the mat. Luz turns and walks over to the ladder and lifts it up and places it on top of Kim. She then exits to the apron and climbs up to the top rope. She looks down as Amelia looks on in concern. Luz dives off with a Vuelo Encantado onto the ladder, onto Kim. Luz arches her back, clearly in pain. Luz then crawls over and covers Kim.

1!

2!

Kim shoots her shoulder up. Luz rolls over and looks out. She winces and holds her head and neck and starts to get up. She moves the ladder out of the way.

Sharper: “Only two! Luz again using her body to drive the ladder into Kim.”

Knots: “She’s hurting herself too. Kim may appreciate that, but it may not help her win! Not after so many shots.”

Luz then turns around and heads over to Kim and grabs her. She forearms her once and then again before going to whip her across, but Kim spins through and pulls her into a forearm. Luz turns and Kim grabs her in a waistlock and hits a release German suplex through the leaning table in the corner. The crowd ohs. Kim looks up and turns and starts to get up. Luz holds her head and neck. Kim turns and covers for the pin.

1!

2!

Luz just gets her shoulder up. She rolls over as Kim pulls back. She then grabs one of the halves of the table and lifts it up and throws it down onto Luz. Luz winces. Kim lifts it up and throws it down again. Kim then grabs her and drags her up before looking back and then hitting a DDT. Kim winces and turns and looks around.

Sharper: “Kim nearly got Luz with that German suplex.”

Knots: “Now just a DDT. Kim’s got the wheels turning and that’s bad for everyone.”

Kim looks around and grabs Luz. She slowly pulls her up, but Luz nails her with a uppercut. Kim falls back and over to the apron. Kim then rolls to the floor. Luz runs at her and dives through with a tope suicida. The crowd ohs. Kim rolls over in pain. Luz turns and goes for the pin.

1!

2!

Kim kicks out. Kim rolls over and Luz stirs. She gets up and grabs Kim. Luz then runs Kim over and to the ringpost, but Kim blocks and drives her face first into the ringpost. Luz staggers back and Kim places her on the table. Kim then grabs the table and moves it out. She nails her with a couple of hard right hands before turning and climbing to the apron. She then looks out and smirks before climbing to the top rope. She glances back and then dives off hitting the Chaos Theory off the top, onto Luz, through the table. The crowd ohs.

Sharper: “My God! Chaos Theory! From the top! To the floor! Through the table!”

1!

2!

3!

The crowd erupts and Kim rolls off.

Phillips: “Here is your winner, via pinfall, and STILL SCW Underground Champion, Kimberly Williams!”

Sharper: “Unbelievable! Kim with her own taste of the luchadores!”

Knots: “Went high risk and connected, but Luz gave her a fight. Kim just is a bit more fearless!”

Kim rolls over as her music plays. The crowd cheers as the official heads around the ring and grabs her title. They walk across and hand it to Kim. Amelia checks on Luz. Kimberly continues to celebrate as the scene fades out.

COMMERCIALS

Backstage, Luz winces in pain and leans on a storage crate. Amelia helps her and turns to her.

Blythe: “You okay?”

Luz: “I’ll be fine. Just…angry I came up short. I can’t complain how I lost. Kim proved herself.”

James Evans walks up to the two, shaking his head. Amelia and Luz look over.

Evans: “And here I thought you two could be saved.”

Blythe: “Excuse me.”

Evans: “The violence…do you support what she did out there?”

Blythe: “Of course, I do.”

Evans shakes his head.

Evans: “Sad. I will just need to prevent this scourge from going further next week.”

Evans walks pass, holding his hands together. Blythe glances at him as the camera turns where we see Religious Wright in the background watching and smiling before heading off. Luz steps up to Blythe.

Luz: “Forget about him.”

The scene cuts away.

Sal Darius vs. Willow Aspen

'California love' by 2Pac Shakur hits the arena and Sal Darius comes out wearing his world's famous blublockers. He comes out displaying all the hype and toughness. He walks a little and then takes a sprint to the ring.

Phillips: “The following contest is scheduled for one fall! Introducing first, hailing from Venice, California, The Sex Vibe, Sal Darius!”

After sliding in the ring underneath the bottom rope, he climbs the turnbuckle and points to his crouch. Then 'The King of the world of Hearts' throw his blublocker aviators in the crowd and jumps back performing boxing shadow in the ring warming up for his bout.

Sharper: “Interesting match here tonight with two newer stars looking to make headway. Two tournaments on going starting tonight leading into our twentieth annual event, Taking Hold of the Flame.”

Knots: “It took twenty years, Adam but we finally have a Sex Vibe!”

THE WORLD

DOES NOT

BELONG TO YOU

IT BELONGS TO ME…

The chant plays out over the crowd, echoing as it leads around to the beginning guitar of “And So It Went” by The Pretty Reckless begins to play out. As the song kicks in, Willow Aspen steps out onto the stage clad in her ring-gear and what could only be described as a “Dragon-scale trenchcoat” overtop. She continues down the ramp, glancing out at the crowd around her as she strides.

And his opponent, from a cabin in the woods, Willow Aspen!”

Once in the ring, she poses while undoing her jacket, sliding it down her shoulders into her hands, handing it through the ropes to the ringside attendant. She begins pulling on the ropes in preparation of the match as Sal just smirks, watching in the corner. He steps forward and casually places his fingers into the side of his tights. Willow steps up staring at him. Removing his hands from his tights he points at Sal and says something only she can hear. It becomes clear it’s probably inappropriate as he raises his other hand up to give the universal sign for blow jobs.

Sharper: “Oh come on.”

The crowd gives mixed reactions as he points once more at her before pointing at himself and back at her. Willow just stares at him as he winks back at her. Suddenly she lunges and goes to drive both feet onto his chin with a dropkick. Sal ducks it and steps out of the way before grabbing her back the head and pulling her into a small package.

1!

2!

Willow quickly kicks out at two. As Sal rolls back to his feet Willow does a flip forward before jumping up onto his shoulders. As she has her wraps her legs around his head she starts viciously hitting the top of his head with multiple double axe handle swings. Sal lands back into the corner and Willow falls back, flipping Sal with a hurricanrana. She sits up and charges at Sal before he can get to his feet and this time connects with a running dropkick to the chin. The crowd cheers as Willow pulls herself up and runs over to drive both feet into his abdomen as he is laying on the mat. He rolls over dodging it and then proceeds to continue rolling as she tries multiple times to step on his face. He rolls and quickly pulls himself up to his feet as she tries to grab a hold of his neck. He shoves her back and as she tries charging forward he catches her chin with a high knee that knocks her back. The crowd boos as he raises his arm up victoriously. He struts around a bit before stopping to scratch the side of his nose before using that hand to give the crowd the middle finger.

Sharper: “This guy is definitely something else.”

Knots: “He’s pretty effective. Both of these competitors seem ridiculously unorthodox in their approach. Willow however has actually been focused on the match where Sal could seemingly care less!”

Sal turns back to Willow who has already rolled up and was coming onto him. She leaps up and drives her feet into his chest while grabbing a hold his shoulders, throwing him over with a monkey flip. He lands awkwardly on his feet and spins going for a sudden quick roundhouse kick to the jaw. Willow ducks it and tries spearing him into the corner. He is barely fazed and drills the back of her head with his fist as she is bent down. She falls back a step clutching her head as he simply drives her to the mat with a double leg takedown. He hooks her legs going for a pin.

1!

2!

She kicks out and sits up. He stands up and goes for a kick to the head. She catches his leg and delivers a dragon screw that sends him down onto the center of the ring. She turns and does a jump up to the top rope in one go before turning and leaping. Sal rolls over and quickly gets up as she doesn’t bother looking, going for the Death From Above. Sal gets struck and falls over as she lands with her back in midair directly on his head. The crowd oh’s from the impact as she quickly rolls over and runs across the ring. As he sits up she charges back before going for low dropkick to the face. He rolls out of the way and she slides across the ring. As she goes to stand Sal runs over and grabs a hold of the top rope before beginning to knee her across the shoulder. The crowd boos from the turn of events when suddenly the camera pans back to show a figure stepping out from the back.

Sharper: “Interesting back and forth here but who is this?”

The man removes his hood to reveal himself as Erik Holland. The crowd doesn’t seem to know how to react initially until he is shown to be holding a chain in one hand. They immediately cheer as he lifts it up to hold the other end of it in his other hand. He makes a loop with it and raises it up toward the ring in the shape of a noose while continuing to approach. Sal stops to peer at the crowd from their reaction and peers around before spotting Holland halfway down the ramp.

Sharper: “Oh my! Eric Holland here tonight and he looks to be wanting revenge, making a showing with that chain!”

Knots: “Someone call security!”

Sal turns and steps over. He steps up on the bottom rope closest to the ramp and starts yelling at him to bring it. He leans off the rope and before much else can happen Aspen suddenly runs over and springboards from the second rope before connecting with a twisting DDT that sends Sal to the center of the ring. She proceeds to lock in The Last Resort. Sal panics and tries reaching for the ropes onto see Holland now just standing there waiting with the chain in hand. Sal immediately taps and the referee calls for the bell.

Sharper: “Sal got caught there thanks to Erik Holland’s ominous presence and it looks like there may be some karma coming!”

Knots: “Did it tap because it was too much or did he tap hoping to get the hell out of there as quickly as possible- Oh wait!”

“And so it went” begins to play briefly before stopping as Holland immediately rolls into the ring. Willow dropped the hold as the referee called for the bell and Sal is immediately to his feet and taking steps back before shoving her into Holland. She takes a step back and moves out of his way as Holland immediately lunges and swings the chain high over his head towards Sal. Sal moves out of the way as the chain flies over and hits the top rope. Sal rolls out of the ring as officials begin running down to the ring. Sal jumps the barricade as Holland rolls out of the ring continuing to pursue him. Just as he gets to the barricade the officials all reach him at the same time and begin pulling him back. He watches on frustrated as Sal waves at him from two floors up on the steps in between fans in the crowd.

Sharper: “Erik Holland came close but Sal manages to get away before he can be assaulted with that chain!”

Knots: “Just get that nut out of here! Konrad is bad enough!”

The crowd cheers for Holland as he shakes his head and turns away from Sal who continues leaving.

Bree Lancaster can be seen walking backstage with Jaina Lancaster joining her.

Bree: “Thanks for joining me.”

Jaina: “Figured it wouldn’t hurt to have another person with you. Just given how some people may take this as an opportunity.”

Bree: “With Ravyn and Ace as the champs too…add the tournament….”

Bree then stops and points. Jaina turns to her.

Jaina: “I’ll stay here.”

Bree nods and heads forward. We see Datura sitting on a storage crate as she looks down. Bree walks over to her and Datura looks up.

Datura: “I figured you’d find me.”

Bree: “I figured you’d find a quiet place to think. I know what D told you.”

Datura: “Wonderful timing…After Kandis took me out. I was ready to fight tonight and then getting that injury…my knee-“

Bree: “And that doesn’t matter.”

Datura: “Of course it does. We’re the first time to get a tag title shot, earning it nonetheless and we’ve never teamed, at least officially. And now we have the title match and I can’t go. Out past Taking Hold of the Flame. Damn knee…”

Bree: “Liz-“

Datura: “Don’t worry…I’m not spiralling…not this time. Just…timing. Damn timing!”

Bree sighs. Datura looks down.

Datura: “Maybe Amy can take my spot…or Kim-“

Bree: “No. If I’m winning those titles, it’s with you. They can wait. I’ll ask D to push it back. Name another contender. Until you’re ready. Because you deserve to be holding SCW gold again.”

Datura: “Well I am…but.”

Bree: “I know, but I mean something they recognize.”

Datura nods.

Datura: “And if we’re passed over.”

Bree: “Then we earn it the old fashioned way and we’ll show why it’s only a matter of time before we hold those titles.”

Datura: “Then I better get to getting my leg stronger.”

Bree: “Damn right.”

Bree smiles as she helps Datura up and the scene fades out.

COMMERCIALS

“The Old Me” plays as the Breakdown logo comes across the screen. Stills of various matches follow.

Sharper: “Welcome back to Breakdown. We’re about to see our main event tonight. Josh Hudson and Selena Frost in our World Championship tournament. But next week, everything continues.”

Stills for Adam Allocco vs. Syren and Asher Hayes vs. Kandis come up on the screen.

Knots: “Exactly. We will see more from the World Title tournament. Syren will face Adam Allocco! Asher Hayes will look to shut up Kandis!”

Stills for James Evans vs. Amelia Blythe and Glory Braddock vs. Deanna Frost follow.

Sharper: “And US Championship tournament will continue too when Deanna Frost faces Glory Braddock and James Evans and Amelia Blythe clash.”

A still for Ravyn Taylor vs. Konrad Raab follows.

Knots: “Plus…Ravyn Taylor may regret being tied to Ace Marshall. She faces Konrad Raab next week!”

Sharper: “All that and much more. That’s next week. But we’re not done tonight!”

The Breakdown logo comes across the screen.

Selena Frost vs. Josh Hudson

SCW World Championship Tournament

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. The crowd gives a mixed reaction.

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 and sprint down the ramp and towards the ring!

Phillips: “The following contest is scheduled for onefall with a thirty minute time limit and is a quarterfinals match in the SCW World Championship tournament. First, on her way to the ring, from Nome, Alaska, she is the Snow Queen, Selena Frost!”

Lowering her arms, the Winter’s Knight walks down the ramp, her steps leaving footprints in the “snow” under her feet. Reaching the ring, Selena goes up the steps and under the ropes to enter it. Once inside and in the center of the ring, she lifts her hand up to give a twirl as the lights form to make a massive snowflake under her. Stopping her spin and lowering her hand back down, towards the audience, once again palm upright, a smirk graces her lips, her other arm lifting to the sky once more. With a slam of her foot, Selena caused the snowflake at her feet to “crack” as the rampway did, the shards of ice streaking out to all four corners of the ring to shoot out blue sparkles of light as the lights return to normal. She looks around, hearing the crowd as many fans cheer, but boos can be clearly heard too.

Sharper: “Selena Frost again getting a mixed reception, but otherwise as focused as she can be.”

Knots: “Is she? At Playing the Wildcard, she and Deanna took on what came at them and it was at some point too much. You’re wound up like that, you’re going to suddenly explode!”

Sharper: “We’ve been hearing more and more of her frustration, but the World Title, that was an example of what she could go. Standing against everyone who sought to take shortcuts!”

“Duality” by Slipknot blares through the PA system. The cameras show the crowd who begin cheering before zooming in at the entrance way, where Josh Hudson steps out. He wears a sleeveless black hoodie as he slowly makes his way down the ramp.

Phillips: “Her opponent, from New York City, New York, he is Josh Hudson!”

He reaches the bottom of the ramp and he looks out to the crowd before making his way up the ring steps, and climbs into the ring. He goes to the bottom right hand corner, climbing to the top rope, and staring out at the crowd once again, as he lifts both fists into the air, earning a mixed reaction before he climbs down and leans into the turnbuckle, waiting for the match to begin.

Sharper: “Josh Hudson meanwhile wants to get back what he just lost. No rematch for him. He has to go through the tournament to win it back. After years of wanting to be World Champion again. He got it for a taste, but Owen Cruze ended that.”

Knots: “And this is the thing – can Selena keep it together against someone like Josh Hudson? Someone who can outwrestle her. Someone who has proven he could beat anyone in SCW.”

Hudson looks across at Selena as Selena looks at Hudson. The crowd roars as the bell sounds. The SCW World Championship Tournament logo comes across the screen. Selena and Hudson circle the ring before they lock up in the middle of the ring. Selena drops down and around Hudson and then moves into a side headlock. Hudson reaches around and then pulls her back to the ropes. He fires her off. Selena bounces off and Hudson shoulders her down. The crowd gives a mixed reaction as Selena looks up. Hudson just looks down at him. Hudson then goes to grab her, but Selena rolls back and hooks his arm. She tries to pull him down for the Frost’s Bite, but Hudson blocks it and drops down to his knees, folding her up.

1!

2!

Selena kicks out.

Sharper: “Selena going for the Frost’s Bite early! Hudson stacks her up! Only two!”

Both get up and Hudson grabs the arm of Selena and wrenches it before Selena cartwheels through and then hits a sweep kick to the shins. Hudson hits the mat and rolls to his back. Selena goes for the pin.

1!

2!

Hudson kicks out. Both get up and Selena chops Hudson. The crowd woos. She chops him again leading to more woos. She then grabs Hudson and goes to send him into the corner, but Hudson shoves Selena forward into the corner. She hits chest first and bounces back. Hudson grabs her and goes for a release German suplex. Selena backflips through. The crowd ohs. Hudson turns and looks at her and gets up as Selena hits a dropkick. Hudson hits the mat. Selena goes for the pin.

Knots: “Selena looks like she’s not going to worry about the fans!”

Sharper: “Dropkick causes Hudson to leave his feet! Cover!”

1!

2!

Hudson kicks out. He rolls over and gets up. Selena follows up and kicks him in the ribs. She forearms him in the jaw. She then pulls him out and snapmares him over. Hudson hits the mat. Selena runs into the ropes and bounces off and hits a diving back elbow. She then gets up and hits a standing moonsault. She hooks the leg.

1!

2!

Hudson kicks out again. He rolls over and turns as Selena turns and grabs him by the head and Hudson nails her in the ribs and then hits a double leg takedown. Selena falls back and Hudson rolls off. He gets up, clearly annoyed. Selena gets up and turns and walks into Hudson who hooks her in a waistlock and hits an overhead belly to belly suplex.

Sharper: “Selena sent overhead! Flying!”

Knots: “Not by her choice!”

Sharper: “Hudson dropped down and made sure to get good air, suplexing her across.”

Selena turns and starts to get up. She turns to Hudson who kicks her in the ribs and then hooks her up and hits a vertical suplex. Selena turns and sits up. Hudson walks over and just nails her in the top of the head with an elbow strike. Selena rolls over in pain. She moves to the ropes, using it to get up and Hudson walks over and clubs her in the back once and then again and again. He grabs her by the waist. He tries to take her over once, but Selena holds onto the ropes. Demitra, the official, calls for the break, but Hudson tries again. Selena holds on and Hudson then clubs her in the back before pulling her back and hoisting her up for a back suplex, only for Selena to backflip through. Hudson turns around and Selena wrenches his arm and hits a shoot kick to the jaw. She hits a second shoot kick before rearing back and going for a third, but Josh catches the leg and then hoists her up and over with a leg capture suplex.

Sharper: “Selena tried to use those kicks, but Hudson stuffed the third and takes her over.”

Knots: “You wonder how much both are going to just push themselves. Remember this round one.”

Sharper: “But unlike those competing next week, they do have a week to not only prepare, but heal up. And both want to avoid a losing streaking here. Both want a big win.”

Selena turns and starts to get up. She winces as Hudson walks over and knees her in the chest. Selena pops up and Hudson scoops her up and hits a backbreaker. Hudson throws Selena down and hooks the leg.

1!

2!

Selena kicks out. She rolls over and Hudson steps up and stomps in her back. He then grabs her and pulls her up and then gutwrenches her. He hoists her up and drops her with a release gutwrench powerbomb. He then grabs her legs and turns her over with a Boston crab. The crowd gives a mixed reaction as Selena grimaces in pain.

Sharper: “And Hudson found his target. The lower back of Selena Frost!”

Knots: “First the backbreaker, then the powerbomb, now the crab. And he’s just getting started unless Selena calls it.”

Sharper: “We know that won’t be happening. She’s going to fight. She’s going to fight for all she can!”

Selena winces as she looks out at the ropes. Hudson sits down and smiles. Selena reaches over and then starts to try to bridge up. Hudson remains down as Selena reaches over, struggling before starting to move herself, sliding herself to her right. Hudson holds on as the crowd is a mixture of cheering for Selena, while a faint, but noticeable “Tap!” chant begins. Selena keeps moving toward the ropes. Hudson holds on and Selena reaches out and grabs the ropes. The crowd roars before a mixed reaction filters through.

1!

2!

3!

4!

Hudson lets go and steps forward and walks around the ring. Selena winces and slowly starts to pull herself up. Hudson then walks over to her and grabs her from behind. He then hits a German suplex. He holds on and rolls through. He starts to pull Selena up as the crowd roars. He turns and throws her back again.

Sharper: “And Selena gets out of the frying pan, into the fire! From the crab into German suplexes!”

Knots: “Not just one, but now two. Here comes three!”

Hudson continues to hold on as he rolls through again. He then drags her up and turns and throws her back for a third one. He then holds on for a moment.

1!

Hudson however rolls though again and holds on. He starts to lift Selena up and hoists her up, but Selena blocks it and rolls forward into a roll-up.

1!

2!

Hudson kicks out. Selena falls forward. Hudson rolls back. Both get up and Hudson runs at Selena, but Selena ducks a clothesline, runs across the ring, bounces off and hits a spinning heel kick. Hudson hits the mat. Selena rolls through and starts to get up. Hudson rolls over and gets up and Selena wrenches his arm and hits the Paydirt. Hudson falls back. Selena remains down. The official starts to count.

Sharper: “Selena with the Paydirt!”

Knots: “But can’t take advantage. Those German suplexes did their damage!”

Sharper: “And Aaron Demitra, senior official, using his ten count. If both are counted out, both are eliminated from the tournament.”

1!

2!

3!

4!

Selena crawls over to Hudson. (5) She throws herself onto him.

1!

2!

Hudson throws his shoulder up. Selena rolls off. She turns and starts to get up. Hudson stirs too. He staggers up and turns to Selena who jumps up and hits a frankensteiner. The crowd cheers a bit while some boos come out as Selena staggers over to the corner. She glances back and then climbs up to the middle rope and then to the top rope and hits a moonsault onto Hudson. She hooks the leg.

1!

2!

Hudson gets his shoulder up again. Selena rolls off and looks out. She then turns and slowly starts to get up.

Sharper: “Another nearfall. The top rope moonsault only got two!”

Knots: “And Selena’s not stopping though. You can’t afford to with Hudson!”

Hudson rolls over and stirs and Selena forearms him in the jaw. He pops up to his feet and staggers back and Selena hits a shoot kick. Hudson falls back into the ropes and then Selena jumps up and hits an enziguri kick to the back of the head. Hudson falls to the mat. Selena turns and exits to the apron. She climbs up to the top rope. The crowd roars as she gets to the top, but just then, Hudson rolls over, gritting his teeth and running up and jumping to the middle rope and then to the top rope and grabs Selena and hits a top rope belly to belly superplex. The crowd ohs.

Sharper: “Off the top! Hudson digging deep himself and hits the top rope belly to belly.”

Knots: “Selena put distance and Hudson knew he had to act. And damn it, he did. He may be up there in years, but he’s still got the instincts.”

Hudson rolls over and crawls over to Frost and throws himself over her.

1!

2!

Selena shoots her shoulder up. The crowd roars. Hudson rolls off and smacks the mat. He then starts to get up and looks at Selena. Selena rolls over and Hudson turns and grabs her. He drags her up and whips her into the ropes. Selena bounces off and Hudson hoists her up and hits a violent spinning spinebuster. The crowd ohs. Hudson steps up and then grabs Selena by the legs. He hoists her up and starts to try to turn her over for an elevated Boston crab. Selena however fights, trying to prevent Hudson from getting free. Selena moves her legs and gets her left leg free and kicks Hudson in the chest and then again and then catches him in the jaw. Hudson lets go. He moves to the corner.

Sharper: “Selena not letting Hudson turn her over.”

Knots: “I mean after that spinebuster…does she owe him money?”

Sharper: “Hudson now owes her a receipt!”

Hudson steps up and Selena grabs him and takes him over with an inside cradle.

1!

2!

Hudson kicks out. Both get up and Selena turns as Hudson hoists her up onto his shoulders. He then throws her to the side. Selena lands on the top rope and falls back into Hudson who takes her over with a bridging German suplex.

1!

2!

Selena rolls her shoulder up. Hudson holds on and keeps the clasp, dragging Selena up again. Selena then elbows him in the jaw once and then again before Hudson throws her back with a release German suplex, but Selena twists and lands on her side and rolls through. Hudson rolls over and turns and gets up and walks into Selena who hits the Glass Shard!

Sharper: “Hudson walked into it! Glass Shard!”

Knots: “And Selena did not miss!”

Selena drops down and into the pin.

1!

2!

3!

The crowd roars, before a mixed reaction follows. The bell sounds.

Phillips: “Here is your winner, via pinfall, Selena Frost!”

Selena rolls off.

Sharper: “And Selena Frost has just defeated the former World Champion to move on!”

Knots: “A step closer to her vision returning!”

Sharper: “To doing what she said she would do for SCW. Integrity. But Josh Hudson is not going to be pleased when he wakes up!”

Knots: “Not at all. But for now, cheer or boo…Selena Frost is one step closer to becoming World Champion again!”

Sharper: “That she is. We’ll see who else moves onto the semifinals on Thursday. We’ll see you then. Thanks for joining us, here for Breakdown!”

The crowd looks on and gives Selena a mixed reaction as she slowly gets up, holding her arm up. Demitra raises her arm in victory as the scene fades to black…