NJFC presents: A New Hope in Tokyo

[James Peterson]

NEW JAPAN FIGHTING CHAMPIONSHIP 
PRESENTS: 
A NEW HOPE IN TOKYO

Brought to you by Under Armour, Sony and Dr Pepper

Friday 28th April, 2017

(Ryōgoku Kokugikan)

LIVE! From Ryōgoku Kokugikan on AxxessNet!

NJFC Presents A New Hope from Tokyo
Friday 28th April, 2017
Commentators: Ashley Hamilton, Dirge Johnson, Robbie Black.
Announcer: Mai Kado
Senior Referee: Tekada Hanzo
Referees: Oliver Reid, Shinobu Ichii
Backstage Interviewer: Rachel Kenshin, Joey Miles, Shelley Silver

[James Peterson]

DARK MATCHES

Akio Tanaka vs. Goto Daisuke 

HEAVYWEIGHT   CLASS   HEAVYWEIGHT

222LBS   WEIGHT  255LBS

5'11FT  HEIGHT  6'0FT

A heavyweight bout to start the night off between a former junior heavyweight, and a veteran competitor. Akio Tanaka appeared calculated, focused and had a sadistic look in his eyes whilst the crowd favorite Goto Daisuke waved to the audience, his lovable personality shining through in the opening moments of the match as he invited Tanaka for a tie up. And the two dueled in the center of the ring, with Akio surprising Daisuke, showing an unbelievable amount of strength as he locked him into a side head lock before slamming him down to the canvas and continuing to lock in the hold.

He wasn't playing around.

And Akio continued to display his transition from junior heavyweight to heavyweight, bringing Goto back to his feet and slamming him back down to the canvas with a lethal German suplex which he then bridged into the first pin attempt of the evening, to no prevail. Goto shook his head in acknowledgement, surprised by the sporadic advancement of Akio and invited him in for another tie up and the two would play a game of locks and holds for a while. Hammerlocks, transitions to headlocks, pushed into the ropes, coming back off of them and Goto barging Tanaka down to the canvas. Running off to the ropes, Tanaka would show his athletic ability as he managed to perform a belly to belly suplex on Goto, further shocking him and the audience.

It wasn't the close match that anybody was expecting, but Akio was bringing the heat and that was in fact exciting Goto, who welcomed the challenged and the two continued to dual. Goto and Tanaka would exchange blows, exchange suplexes, pretty much exchange every move in their arsenal with Tanaka replying to every move as if to say 'anything you can do, I can do better', and it took one bicycle kick to prove that. He'd then pick Goto back up and perform a bridging tiger suplex to finish him off, and get the three count for the win.

Winner: Akio Tanaka (8:11)

Takashi Shinobu vs. Yoshi Sakuraba

JUNIOR HEAVYWEIGHT      CLASS     JUNIOR HEAVYWEIGHT

165LBS    WEIGHT    183LBS

5'4FT     HEIGHT    5'11

These two brought their 'A' games to one another from very early on in the contest, with NJFC original Takashi Shinobu getting the love from the audience. The two would engage in a series of back and forth quick maneuvers, Takashi whipping Sakuraba to the ropes, with Sakuraba bouncing back and having to leap over the grounded Shinobu. Bouncing off of the opposite ropes, this time Shinobu leapfrogged over him, and as Sakuraba came back for a last time Shinobu looked to catch him with a drop kick but Sakuraba faked the comeback, and as Shinobu hit the canvas he mounted on top of him and unleashed a barrel of strikes.

The two would then test their strength as they got back to their feet, engaging in a variety of locks with Sakuraba using his weight advantage to win each dual, grounding Shinobu and displaying some brilliant mat wrestling skills. There was a lot of respect shown between the two men, and every time a sequence would finish, the two would slap each others hands, to the audience's applause. However Sakuraba consistently managed to best Shinobu in pretty much every, despite Shinobu being faster, Sakuraba would use his ring knowledge and technical skill to counter Shinobu, who was repeatedly getting trapped by Sakuraba. The audience couldn't ignore the ring smarts of Sakuraba, and even though they wanted Shinobu to win, they'd applaud each calculated counter Sakuraba would deliver, in awe of his technical prowess.

Towards the end of the match, as always, the two men brought the intensity to one another and there was a lot more strikes connecting now than before. A display of strong style being shown from both men, who engaged in a war of forearms before Shinobu countered with an enziguri which stunned Sakuraba, to the point where he was stumbling back to the ropes, coming off of them and delivering a sweet superkick to Shinobu. The pin attempt wasn't enough, to the disbelief of Sakuraba. He hoisted himself up onto the top rope, looking to finish things off but Shinobu was quick to get back up onto his feet, performing a hurricanrana on Sakuraba from the top rope! This was enough for Shinobu to secure the win, as he hooked the leg of Sakuraba and got the three count! A beautifully crafted match between two talented junior heavyweights.

Winner: Takashi Shinobu (15:08)

Shiro Ibushi vs. Yuji Misawa

HEAVYWEIGHT   CLASS   HEAVYWEIGHT

240LBS     WEIGHT      225LBS

 6'0FT     HEIGHT      6'1FT

In the last match within the dark match card, it was two well known heavyweights within the Japanese wrestling realm. Shiro Ibushi had previously been contracted to New Japan Fighting Championship but failed to make an appearance last year due to reoccurring knee injury. Whilst this would be the debut for Yuji Misawa within the company and the two men were met with a warm reception from the audience. 

The match started with a bang, the two men exchanging blows for a length time in the center of the ring before Misawa took control - using his technical strength to his advantage as he out wrestled Ibushi, locking him into a variety of holds and stunning him with quick precision moves that caught Ibushi off guard. However Ibushi would fight his way back into the contest with one hit, a headbutt that connected so sweetly it echoed through the arena and forced Misawa to exit the ring to recuperate. Ibushi wasn't going to allow any rest for Misawa and joined him on the outside continuing an onslaught, receiving some heel heat in the process as he refused to roll him back into the ring but after the count reached seventeen, he followed the referee's orders and the match continued inside the ring. Ibushi was now the established villain and continued to wear down Misawa with a number of holds, and whilst having the holds intact, striking him to further the damage. Misawa would feed off the energy of the audience but every time it looked as if he was coming back into the contest, Ibushi would summon up his strength to strike him back down and keep on top of the contest. It was brutal, and sickening. And at times, it looked as if Misawa wasn't going to get back into the contest. But one counter was enough to change the dynamics of the match. One drop kick to the chest, would caused the arena to explode in an eruption of cheers. Misawa was now in control, using his speed and strength to keep Ibushi on the ropes, as well as the energy from the audience. 

The ending sequence of the match was phenomenal with a series of close calls and signature moves being hit, it was a real classic for those watching. But it would be Yuji Misawa who'd emerge the victor, finishing Ibushi with a lifting double underhook facebuster; a move he calls, "Dragon's Roar". The bell rang and both men received a standing ovation for their efforts. Yuji offered a hand out to Ibushi, who snubbed him and charged off to the back. 

Winner: Yuji Misawa (11:03)

[James Peterson]

---

Main Card

Opening Match

Singles Match

Benny Stevens vs. Jack Tillman 

Black: That’s it ladies and gentlemen, New Japan Fighting Championship has finally returned!

Johnson: Can we just get to it? I came fully expecting to see some brutal hand to hand combat, not just hang around and talk about it.

Hamilton: That’s kind of our job. Tonight’s lineup is filled with familiar names and fresh faces, all looking to leave a lasting impression before NJFC starts to settle out the title scene.

Black: We’re going to be opening up with two new faces in NJFC, the well versed, Benny Stevens mixing it up with Jack Tillman!

Johnson: Does it matter? I just want to see two people beat the ever-loving hell out of each other.

Hamilton: Looking from the outside, I’m sure the oddsmakers are leaning towards Benny Stevens. But don’t underestimate Jack Tillman. Trained by Kurt Newman, a graduate of the NJFC Dojo, it’d make for one hell of a story if he came out here and won the first match in NJFC’s return!

Black: Mai Kado is standing by, ready to introduce the competitors and get this event officially underway!

The feed cuts away from the commentators, focusing in on Mia Kado who’s standing inside the ring.

Mai Kado: The following contest is scheduled for one fall with a thirty minute time limit!

“Wicked Game” by Chris Isaak begins to play over the P.A. system and Benny Stevens enters the arena through the entrance curtain with Anthony Stevens by his side. Benny takes a few steps out and stands with his hands on his hips. He slowly spins around looking out towards the live audience, grinning from ear to ear before waving them off and marching down the aisle towards the ring.

Mia Kado: Weighing in at one hundred ninety-five pounds, from Seattle, Washington, but currently residing in Osaka, Japan, BENNY STEVENS!!

Benny climbs through the ropes and makes his way to the nearby ring ropes. Benny leans on the tope rope, looking out to the crowd. He nods his head along with the melody of his entrance music, seemingly amping himself up for inevitable bout against Jack Tillman.

Mia Kado: And his opponent…

The lights dim down as “Out Of Black” by Royal Blood begins to play throughout the arena. The arena erupts with a mix of cheers and boos as Jack Tillman comes walking out with a death stare in his eyes. Concentrated on the match at hand, Jack makes his way down to the ring

Mia Kado: From Omaha, Nebraska! Standing at six foot one and weighing in at two hundred and ten pounds! He is Jack “The Ripper” Tillman!

Making it to the steel stairs, he stands for for a few seconds, mentally getting himself ready for the match. As he stands there, the fans behind him begin to chant.

HE IS WRESTLING! (clap, clap, clap clap clap)

HE IS WRESTLING! (clap, clap, clap clap clap)

HE IS WRESTLING! (clap, clap, clap clap clap)

The fans continue to chant as Jack places a mouth guard in his mouth and makes his way up the steel steps. Stepping inside the ring, Jack stands in the middle of the ring and makes a throat slash with his thumb as black, white, and red streamers come flying into the ring from the fans. Ring staff quickly begin to collect the streamers as Jack walks over to a corner and gets ready for his match.

Black: The fans made it perfectly clear that they’ll be in Jack Tillman’s corner.

Johnson: Does it matter who the crowd wants to win? Life lesson, you don’t always get what you want! Let’s see if they live up to the billing!

Hamilton: Being a graduate of the NJFC Dojo, there has to be some added pressure resting on the shoulders of Jack Tillman. He looks focused, but that could change after the bell rings and he gets up close and personal with the American Playboy.

DING DING DING!

The official calls for the opening bell and both competitors make their way to the center of the ring. After circling one another, they lock up with a collar and elbow tie-up. Tillman works his way around Stevens and secures a rear waist lock. Benny fights at Tillman’s grip but can’t seem to separate his hands. He reaches up and manages to catch Tillman’s head and squeezes it into a side headlock. Tillman backs Stevens against the ropes. He slips his head free and pushes Benny across the ring. Stevens rebound off of the ropes and he knocks Tillman down with a running shoulder block. Stevens looks down at his opponent and dashes towards the ropes. Tillman kips-up and as Benny returns to the center of the ring, he’s tossed with an armdrag takedown. Both competitors mirror each other and rise to their feet, this time it’s Benny Stevens who grabs Tillman by the arm and whips him down to the mat with an armdrag takedown. Tillman and Stevens push up to their feet again. Tillman locks arms with Stevens and flips him over with a Japanese Armdrag Takedown. For a fourth time they both bounce off of the mat and stand up nearly in sync. Stevens copies his opponent and sends Tillman across the ring with a Japanese Armdrag of his own! On opposite sides of the ring, the two slowly rise as the live audiences showers them with a deafening round of applause.

Black: What a series of chain wrestling! Benny Stevens stepping completely out of his comfort zone and trading move for move with Jack Tillman.

Johnson: You know what would have worked instead of trying to show up the other guy? A stiff forearm to the jaw; almost always does the trick!

Hamilton: The reaction from this crowd, the appreciation they have for the sport, it’s simply amazing!

Tillman nods his head as Benny smirks across the ring. The two meet up again, locking up with a collar and elbow tie-up. Stevens slips out and grabs Tillman by the wrist. He steps under his arm while twisting it, maintaining the wristlock. Jack drops down and does a forward roll, bouncing up to his feet and reversing the hold into a wristlock of his own. Benny copies his opponents counter, trying for a forward roll. Benny lands on his back and instead of trying to counter the wristlock he kicks both feet straight up under the jaw of Jack Tillman, knocking him backwards onto the mat. Both men rise up simultaneously and stare at each other from across the ring. Tillman charges across the ring and tries for a running Mafia Kick but Stevens side steps out of the way. He turns around to face Stevens but gets caught with a karate hook kick to the ribs and instantly a round kick to the side of the face that knocks him backwards, through the ropes, and to the arena floor!

Black: Benny Stevens’s feet are lightning quick! I don’t think Tillman saw that first kick coming, let alone the second one!

Johnson: Think the only thing Jack Tillman is seeing is little birdies flying in circles above his head!

Hamilton: And he took a hard fall to the outside on top of those stiff kicks! Thankfully he’s beginning to stir!

Tillman pulls himself to his knees with the help of the ring apron. Benny slides out of the ring and closes in on Jack Tillman. Tillman hits Stevens with a back elbow to the midsection, creating a bit of separation for him to climb up to his feet. He grabs Stevens by the wrist and tries to whip him into the corner of the security railing. Stevens reverses it and whips Tillman back first into the steel guard rail. With Tillman wincing in pain, Stevens climbs up onto the apron and ignores the refs orders to get back into the ring. He runs along the ring apron and as he approaches the ring post nearest Tillman, he dives off and connects with a flying European Uppercut that knocks Tillman backwards nearly through the security railing after struggling to his feet. Stevens grabs Tillman and quickly rolls him into the ring. Benny climbs up onto the apron and stands there, waiting for his opponent to rise. As Tillman begins to stir, Benny grabs the top rope and jumps up. He springboards off of the top rope and connects with a missile dropkick to the chest of Jack Tillman that knocks him across the ring. Benny crawls over to his opponent, lays across his chest and hooks a leg to make the cover.

1
.
.
.
2
.
.
.

Tillman shoots his shoulder up off of the mat and he pushes Benny forward as he rolls away.

Black: Benny Stevens is rolling right now, showing off some of his strong striking ability, and mixing it with some high flying.

Johnson: Those strikes all hit the mark but foolishly, Jack Tillman doesn’t want to stay down?

Hamilton: Foolishly? Jack Tillman has been waiting for this moment, he’s not going to just give up because of a few flashy kicks and European Uppercut.

Benny grabs Tillman by the head and pulls him up to his feet. He whips him across the ring into the ropes. On the rebound, Benny tries for a lariat that Tillman ducks under. Stevens spins around, trying to perfectly time a dropkick but Tillman grabs a hold of the ropes to stop his momentum and Benny crashes to the canvas. Tillman’s eyes light up and as Stevens sits upright, he charges looking to connect with a penalty kick. Stevens rolls out of the way and pushes up to his feet. As Tillman turns around he’s cut down with a running calf kick! Stevens lifts tillman up to his feet and drags him to the center of the ring. He steps behind Tillman and locks in a full nelson before snapping him backwards and bridging for the cover.

Black: What a Dragon Suplex!!

1
.
.
.
2
.
.
.

Tillman kicks out, breaking out of the full nelson. He rolls out of the ring to the arena floor to try and collect himself.

Johnson: This is supposed to be our hero? The man who loves to wrestle? Crawling out of the ring to hide from his opponent; what a coward!

Hamilton: Oh come on. It’s a smart move. He’s avoiding any further punishment while trying to regain his composure.

Benny Stevens’s eyes light up as he stands in the center of the ring. He runs towards the ropes on the opposite side of the ring and rebounds towards Jack Tillman. Stevens leaps through the ropes, looking to connect with his suicide dive but Tillman leaps up and connects with an enziguri kick that stops Benny Stevens dead in his tracks! Stevens collapses and lands on the ring apron. Jack Tillman climbs up and lifts Benny Stevens up to his feet. He secures a rear waist lock and looks out towards the cheering audience. Tillman lifts Benny up and drops him backwards with a German Suplex on the ring apron!

Black: That folks is the hardest part of the ring, absolutely no give! And Benny Stevens was just dropped down on his neck and shoulders

Tillman rises to his feet on the apron and looks down at Benny Stevens on the arena floor as he rolls around in pain. Tillman moves towards one of the ring posts and waves for Benny to rise to his feet. Stevens unsuspectedly obliges The Ripper’s request and works his way up. Tillman runs along the ring apron and connects with a Penalty Kick right to the center of his chest that draws the admiration of the live audience!

Hamilton: Tillman nearly put his foot through Benny Stevens chest!

Johnson: Even I was a little impressed by that. But he still needs to get Benny Stevens into the ring if he wants to pin or submit him.

Jack Tillman jumps down from the apron and lifts Benny Stevens up, rolling him into the ring under the bottom rope. Tillman follows behind and takes a shot in the dark, looking to pick up the pinfall.

1
.
.
.
2
.
.
.

Stevens bucks his hips and rolls Tillman over his head to escape the pinning predicament. Tillman stands up and watches as Stevens uses the ropes to help himself get to his feet. Stevens staggers to the center of the ring and walks into a stiff forearm shot! Benny shakes his head and smirks, absorbing the blow, barely feeling any effects. Benny steps into a stiff forearm shot of his own that rocks Tillman for a second. Tillman stumbles backwards into the ropes, reaches up, and grabs his chin. Tillman darts forward with a Mafia Kick that landed square on Stevens’s jaw. Benny stumbles backwards and falls into the ropes. He reaches up, grabs his chin, and nods his head. Benny staggers away from the ropes and walks into another stiff forearm from Tillman. Stevens barely budges and catches tillman off guard with a foot stomp, creating a bit of separation. Stevens follows that up with a spinning back kick to the midsection and then connecting with a Pele kick!

Black: Benny Stevens may have just turned things around with that combination.

Johnson: That’s twice now that Stevens has dropped Tillman. He should be trying to pin him, what the hell is he doing?

Hamilton: Looks like he’s planning on flying…

Stevens had crawled to the corner and pulled himself up before climbing to the top turnbuckle. He stood there perched, waiting patiently as Jack Tillman fought up to his feet. Tillman slowly spun around, looking for his opponent. Stevens leaped off of the top rope, flying through the air with a shooting star press. After a full rotation he fell towards Tillman, grabbing him by the head with a front facelock, and driving him down to the canvas with a devastating DDT!

Robbie Black: Shooting Star DDT, showing off his daredevil style of wrestling!

Stevens crawls on top of Jack Tillman and hooks the leg for the cover.

1
.
.
.
2
.
.
.

Tillman lifts a leg and drapes his foot over the bottom rope. The official catches it before slapping the mat for a third time. Stevens looks at the official for a moment, confused at the stop of the count. Frustrating he grabs Tillman by the head and drags him to the center of the ring. Tillman fights out of Stevens’s grasp, striking him with a flurry of hooks to the ribs, followed by a rising European Uppercut! Tillman reaches around the abdomen and Benny Stevens and flips him overhead with a release belly-to-belly suplex! Stevens bounces off of the canvas and lands near the corner. He adjusts himself to a seated position, leaning against the bottom turnbuckle. Tillman charges from across the ring and delivers a running dropkick to Benny’s sternum!

Johnson: Now we’re cooking!

Hamilton: The force behind that dropkick could have caved Steven’s chest in!

Tillman grabs Benny by the foot and drags him away from the corner before dropping to for the pin attempt.

1
.
.
.
2
.
.
.

Benny shoots his shoulder up off of the mat before the count of three.

Black: What an opening bout!

Tillman grabs Benny and drags him back into the corner, standing him up against the turnbuckles. He unloads with a flurry of open hand slaps followed by a spinning back fist. As Benny begins to slump, Tillman lifts him up and sits him on the top turnbuckle, facing towards the crowd. Tillman climbs up behind Stevens, onto the middle rope and locks in a full nelson. Tillman looks out to the cheering crowd and pause for a moment before falling backwards with a Dragon Suplex from the middle rope! Tillman and Stevens bounce hard off of the mat, but Jack composes himself quick enough to try another pin attempt!

1
.
.
.
2
.
.
.
3---NO!!

Stevens twists his body at the last possible moment, lifting his shoulder off the mat just enough for the referee to break his count.

Black: Love him, hate him, you can’t knock Benny Stevens’s resiliency! To take a Dragon Suplex from the middle rope and kick out, simply amazing.

Johnson: Stevens is luck he didn’t snap his neck!

Hamilton: Just goes to show how bad both of these guys want to be the winner of the very first match in the return of New Japan Fighting Championship!

Tillman sits on his knees, looking at Benny Stevens and shakes his head. He pushes up to his feet and watches as Benny begins to stir. Allowing Benny to stand on his own, he quickly grabs him by the back of the head and pushes him toward the nearby ropes. Once he releases, Tillman spins around, catching Benny Stevens with the Sick Elbow as he rebounded off of the ropes! Stevens drops where he stands and Jack Tillman quickly follows for the cover.

1
.
.
.
2
.
.
.
3--NO!!!

Black: Another close call! I don’t know how Benny Stevens keeps fighting out of these pin attempts.

Johnson: The guy seems to be as tough as they come.

Hamilton: I just hope Jack Tillman doesn’t start doubting himself. At some point you have to start wondering if you have what it takes to put your opponent away.

Tillman backpedals into the corner, squatting down as he grabs the top rope. He watches Benny Stevens in disbelief as he begins to toss and turn. Benny moves towards the ropes, pulling himself up to his knees and then gradually up to his feet. He turns towards Jack Tillman who charges at him. Benny manages to catch him off guard, driving him into the canvas with a spinning spinebuster! He rolls off of Tillman and struggles back to his feet, holding the ropes for leverage. Jack Tillman rises to his feet and turns towards Benny, once again being caught off guard. Benny Stevens jumps into the air and connects with the Franchise Jr, a flying sidekick more properly known as Yoko Tobi Geri! Stevens crawls over towards Tillman and hooks both legs while rolling all of his weight onto his shoulders.

1
.
.
.
2
.
.
.
3--NO!!

Tillman shoves Benny off of him, once again breaking up the referee’s count!

Black: Both of these guys have been taking each other’s best shots! What’s it going to take in order to pick up this victory?

Johnson: Starting to wonder that myself.

Hamilton: Whoever figures it out is definitely going to earn this win!

Stevens picks Tillman up and slams him back down onto the mat. His eyes quickly glare up towards the top rope. Without hesitation he stands up and marches over towards the ropes. He steps through, out onto the apron, and then ascends to the top rope. Stevens stands still for a moment and then leaps off for his Ten-Star Frog Splash. Tillman brings his knees up to his chest, forcing Stevens to crash across his shins. Stevens bounces off, rolling around, holding his midsection. Tillman notices Stevens on his hands and knees and quickly closes the gap. He grabs one of Stevens’s arms, spinning around and tucking it between his legs. He then rolls over Stevens, rolling him over onto his shoulder with the magistral cradle.

1
.
.
.
2
.
.
.
3

The official pops up and calls for the bell as Stevens finally escapes the roll up!

Black: The high risk didn’t pay off for Benny Stevens! A picture perfect magistral cradle for the win.

Johnson: That’s it? That’s how this ends. Ugh…

Hamilton: And just like that, all of the hard work, perseverance, has paid off for Jack Tillman. The NJFC Dojo graduate has won the first match of NJFC’s return to the wrestling world!

“Out Of The Black” by Royal Blood begins to play as the official grabs Jack Tillman by the wrist, raising his hand into the air as they stand in the center of the ring.

Mai Kado: Ladies and gentlemen, your winner by way of pinfall, Jack “The Ripper” Tillman!!


Winner: Jack Tillman (21:13)

[James Peterson]

OUR FRIENDS, AT UNION BATTLEGROUND

BACKSTORY 

THE DAWNING OF THE FIRST GOLDEN AGE 

Professional wrestling, as we know today, has been around since the turn of the 20th century. Its roots began in the United States throughout state fairs and other similar carnival events. After WWII, the pro wrestling scene ignited its first Golden Era. This is where Union Battleground begins. 

During the 1940s and 1950s, professional wrestling boomed all throughout North America, and at the same time Japan. The Union Battleground was created by a man named Phillip Graves. Graves had an affinity for professional wrestling, debuting at an early age of 15. Graves would put his career on hold to serve his country during WWII. When the war was finally over, Graves returned home but was unable to compete due to being wounded, but he took his ambitions of the sport and developed one of the best promotions in the Midwestern territories. 

Typically promoting events in Ohio, Indiana, Kentucky, and Tennessee, he was able to develop homegrown talent, and also bring in major draws of the era like Gorgeous George, Mexican folk hero Santo, and the legendary Japanese Rikidōzan. He named his company "Union Battleground" because of his philosophy of bringing in the best talent from all across the world to produce the best and most talked about shows. The companies top prize, the Union Championship, was one of the most sought after titles. Phillip's ability to establish good business helped create "alliances" with other territorial and overseas promotions. 

THE INHERITANCE 

Throughout the 1960s and 1970s, professional wrestling's popularity began to wane. During this time, Phillip hung it up and handed his company over to his son, Douglas. Now Douglas wasn't much of an honest man, but in his own way, did have a knack of doing business, albeit illegally in a majority of different aspects. Douglas kept the business afloat until the mid-'80s during the advent of cable television. However, throughout the low points, Douglas grew away from doing business with other promotions like his father did, and instead he was dealing with the Mexican Juárez Cartel, the Japanese Yakuza Mafia, and certain members of the famous "Five Families" of the American Mafia to help keep money flowing in. Douglas failed to legitimize the company and capitalize on the boom of cable and ascending stars of the time like Andre The Giant, Hulk Hogan, Ric Flair, and Randy Savage, and in turn, started to sink the family business deeper in debt. In missing this opportunity, Douglas fell deeper into the hands of the underworld crime rings, and eventually was busted during a sting operation and charged with illegal gambling, fixing matches, and oversea financial accounts. Douglas spent the rest of his days behind bars without parole, however he did make one last business decision that was quite possibly his smartest, he left all of the family business stakes to his youngest son, Axel. 

THE RISE FROM THE ASHES 

Axel naturally followed in his families footsteps and entered into professional wrestling at the age of 17. He was a born natural, and within two years, won his first major championship in IWO's minor league, the IML3. Axel was praised as having the same determination that his grandfather had, and looked like he was going to be a star. 

The IWO's sudden closure left a void in Axel's life. He spent the next several years jumping from various Indy promotions to put food on the table. He finally landed in a company called "Carnage" in 1999, and discovered a different side of him that he never knew existed. He was the companies first and only Deathmatch Champion, and he unleashed a beast with a thirst for violence that he could never quench. The bloody and gruesome battles led Axel into an equally vicious addiction to painkillers. When Carnage folded in 2001, it was also the last time we saw Axel Graves for a long time. Speculations were he followed his father's path and got caught into the wrong crowd, and went away for a long time. His rebuilding efforts of the Union Battleground nearly 15 years later into a fringe global company adds fuel to the fire that he is still connected with crime lords, having an endless supply of dirty money. Is his new business venture legitimate, or will his story close with the same chapter as his father's?

---

PRESS CONFERENCE HIGHLIGHTS:

GAIA GALANOS

Gaia Galanos: Konrad, just like my match against Madman Szalinski, if this match ends up on the ground, woe is you. But, even if you didn’t have to worry about that, Konrad, how do you expect to contend with the scientific fact that no matter how much film you watch, no matter how much scouting you try to do, and no matter who you ask for advice; Konrad Raab, the moment you step into the ring tomorrow night, you will begin realizing something. And, as the match goes on, it will form in your mind until it finally comes to fruition in your mind. Unfortunately, it’ll be too late by then. Mr. Raab, an event horizon is, in layman’s terms, the ‘point of no return’ of a black hole. Not even light can escape. Can you imagine that? If not, you’ll soon bear witness to it first-hand. Welcome to the Event Horizon; the point of no return. Forget a new hope in Tokyo.

She said bluntly.

Gaia Galanos: Because all hope is lost.”

Black: Gaia Galanos was a foreign exchange student from Greece, who ended up remaining in the United States. . She was trained at the Pat Gordon Wrestling Academy before it was closed down and also, trained at the Next Generation Wrestling Academy where she met Mel Ramsey, who is known to the wrestling world as The Harlequin. She was signed by Girl Power Wrestling where she would eventually capture the GPW World Championship, but not before capturing the United Wrestling League's Queen of Wrestling Championship. She went on to have impressive reigns with both titles. One of Gaia's most notable accomplishments was ending GPW's first World Champion's year-long title reign. She is, a submission special, a technician in the ring, who has great ring focus too. And without a doubt, is one of the most talented professionals in the world. Ask Madman, she ended up beating him not so long ago in UKWF.

KONRAD RAAB

via Chris Richards

Chris Richards: "I apologise for his absence today, but you won't be seeing me in that ring tomorrow and this guy will be in America, but I've been preparing Konrad for this cage match for weeks and I know it's for his own good to gain his confidence back and hopefully get rid of his fears of using anger in the match if Gia forces it out of him, but trust me Gia, you aren't gonna have an easy night with Konrad. You aren't ever gonna see him quit because he has such a big heart and knows he'll give you a match that he says you deserve, but at the same time, although he hates cage matches with a passion, he'll compete and do the best he can without looking at the surroundings because he wrestles and cares about the fans and that's how he'll win."

Chris stood up and leaves the press conference room for someone else to be interviewed, being completely satisfied on what he said, even if he wished Konrad was here to talk, he understood why as he leaves to go back to America.

Black: Konrad Raab. He's been in New Japan Fighting Championship for a long time now and boy has he had his fair share of run ins. Multiple matches, I think Raab is actually competed in the most matches here in NJFC, since it's reinception in 2015. He's one of the big dogs around here, that's for sure - and he's someone, that despite age, is regarded very highly here in Japan. Raab didn't do any talking ahead of this one, that was all done by Chris Richards who assured us, despite Raab not being familiar with these match types, you're not going to see him give in tonight, you're not going to see him quit and that's the fighting spirit you need if you wanna be apart of this promotion.

Match Two
KO in a Cage
Gaia Galanos vs. Konrad Raab

Mai Kado: The following contest is a knockout in a cage match!

The wailing of three chords echo across the arena, sending the crowd into a frenzy boos as the camera pans around, catching glimpses of a few different members within the crowd. All who are booing or have their thumbs pointed down.

"When I look at you."

Mai Kado: Introducing first, from Sparta Greece, weighing in a one hundred and seventy five pounds.. GAIA GALANOS!

As those words serenade the crowd continuously, the camera returns to the entrance tunnel where Gaia Galanos is standing there with her cold gaze locked on the center of the ring from underneath the veil of a black towel. Despite the booing and jeering from the crowd, Galanos makes her way to the ring, ignoring anyone who attempts to yell at her or grab at her. Meanwhile, the music takes a more metallic atmosphere. One fan almost successful slaps her arm, but she just smacks their hand away before continuing up the ring steps and across the apron.

Galanos abruptly rips the hanging towel off of her head, and, for a long moment, her icy blues just warn the crowd of the impending doom of her opponent time before she climbs into the ring and takes her corner; awaiting the beginning of the match.

Black: Focused, alert, Gaia Galanos is ready for war. If anyone would be best suited for this match, it would be her. She's someone who's fighting style compliments the cage confides and I think she'll be the favorite to win this one. 

Johnson: Well, believe it or not Robbie.. as much as I like Gaia and think she's a pretty awesome competitor, I have my money on Raab tonight. Experienced, an all rounder, plus; I think he has the beating of Gaia any day of the week, doesn't matter what the environment is. 

Cold as Ice by M.O.P plays over the sound system as Konrad comes out through the curtain wearing his blue and white mask with white hair along with his wrestling trousers with his nickname The Iceman on the front of them with Pit Bull Energy logos on the side of his trousers with black gloves on both of his hands with a side cross necklace on his neck.

Mai Kado: “From Cologne, Germany, he is The Iceman, Konrad Raab!”

He then high fives the fans as he goes up the stairs before going in-between the ropes and does a holdup on each turnbuckle and everyone cheers him as he does a few boxing punches to the cameras before he looks at his opponent waiting for the match to start.

The cage ceiling comes down but the two competitors pay no attention to it. Instead, they remain to have their eyes fixated on one another, and not even for a second, do they look away.

Black: This could be a show-stealer with these to veterans in the ring.

Hamilton: It has everything in order to be one Robbie, the still cage environment, two veterans who are technically sound and physically, perhaps at their pinnacle!

Tension's are rising, and in the arena, the crowd have fell silent, patiently waiting for the sounds of the bell.

DING DING DING!

And when it sounds, silence remains and the two competitors remain in their position, continuing to lock eyes before Raab makes the first move, circling the ring and Gaia follows and this one is officially underway. They approach the center of the ring and look as if they're going to engage in a hold but Raab is quick to grab Gaia by her head, attempting to lock her into a side headlock but she manages to shimmy away quick enough. She backs off to the ropes and Raab follows, but she's on the ropes meaning that he can't do anything. The referee intervenes, getting between the two competitors and by the look on Gaia's face, she's both stunned and impressed by the early display Raab is showing. Someone who's not accustomed to the cage environment. The Iceman takes a step back and invites her back to the center of the ring to engage in a lock.

The two engage in a collar to elbow tie up with Gaia quickly managing to transition into a hammerlock, Raab manages to wiggle his way out of it and reverse the move. Gaia forces Raab back into the ropes, breaking the hold and turning around afterwards, looking to connect with a stiff uppercut but Raab moves out of the way. Running to the ropes, he bounces off of them and greets Gaia with a clothesline, who's not on the canvas for too long. Back up on her feet, Raab is running towards her, looking for another clothesline but she manages to duck under his arm and quickly catch him in a hammerlock position in the process, transitioning into a side headlock before slamming him down onto the canvas, with the lock still intact.

Black: Already it's been quick, already it's been technical and Gaia set up a trap for Raab who went for the clothesline but she avoided it and got him in a hammerlock submission, before a swift transition into a side headlock, taking him down to the canvas in the process.

Johnson: Chicks sure got a hell of talent. Raab is going to have to bring everything he has in his locker if he even wants a chance of beating Gaia.

The crowd applaud her for her efforts as Raab struggles on the mat, but of course, he can't give up. That's not how this works. The objective of this match, is to knock your opponent out. Raab feeds off the energy of the audience and slowly, the two are back up on their feet with Gaia still having the hold intact. Raab forces Gaia into the ropes, looking to use them to his advantage but she doesn't budge, using her lower center of gravity to remain on her feet with the hold still locked in. Raab winces in pain and uses drastic measures in order to get out of the sticky predicament he finds himself in. Lifting her up into the air with the hold still intact, and attempting to separate himself from her with a back drop suplex, to no prevail as she continues to lock the hold in! She grits her teeth and tightens the hold, and just from looking at it, you can feel the impact of the hold taking a toll on Raab who remains strong. Raab gets himself back up onto his feet and lifts Gaia back up, but this time, he's running towards the cage walls! And slam! He sends her into it, thus breaking the hold! Gaia goes crashing onto the canvas.

Gradually, Raab gets back up onto his feet and realizes that he's in full control now, with Gaia grounded. He walks over to her, stomping on her to further the damage before mounting on top of her, and connecting with a barrel of crisp shots before Gaia puts her defenses up to disable him from delivering anymore shots to the head. He gets off of her and allows the referee to count..

1

2

3

Using the ropes, Gaia helps herself back up onto her feet and is now in the corner. Raab runs at her, looking for a big splash in the corner but Gaia catches him mid air, to the surprise of everyone in the arena!

Black: OH MY! Big splash attempt from Raab, but Gaia managed to catch him!

Johnson: She must be superwoman, or something.. that's just insane. 

Hamilton: Not superwoman, just Gaia Galanos doing what The Event Horizon does!

Showing tremendous strength, she then runs to the cage wall and slams the back of Raab against it, the connection echoing through the arena, and as she turns with Raab still on her shoulders, she nails him with a spinebuster, a move not in her arsenal but was fitting to finish the sequence. But competitors lie on the canvas and looking up to the cage ceiling, whilst the audience applaud both competitors for their efforts once again.

Black: What a maneuver! Slamming Raab into the cage before connecting with a spinebuster! 

Hamilton: She's familiar with the cage, and she knows how to use it as a weapon. 

Gaia is the first one up out of the two but Raab follows shortly, holding onto his back. The two meet each other in the center of the ring, almost stumbling into each other. Gaia kicks Raab in the thigh which stuns him, but not enough to knock him off of his feet. She kicks him again in the thigh but this time even harder, but he remains on his feet. She looks for another kick but he catches her leg, spinning her around before performing an arm drag take down, transition into an armbar afterwards. Raab tightens the hold and is looking to inflict the same damage to Gaia as she has to him with submissions, bringing her back up to her feet and Irish whips to the ropes, she bounces back and Raab connects with a lethal drop kick. She hits the canvas hard, and she holds onto the back of her head. Raab isn't done yet. He rises to his feet and picks Gaia up by her hair. He brings her off to the cage wall and slams her into it, holding her there as he now shows an aggressive side to his game, a side that we previously hadn't seen before. Moving her head up and down against the cage wall, trying to expose her skin and dig beneath, to the disgust of those watching, who continued to do so because it was awesome at the same time. He let go as the referee got to a three count, wrapping his arms around her and sending her crashing to the canvas with a German suplex.

Black: The Iceman is showing a side of himself that we haven't seen before! An extreme side.. and I like it! Gaia might not be in the best shape come the morning, I can imagine she's going to need a couple of painkillers after Raab used the cage to his advantage, using it to dig into her skin.

Johnson: You've got to play dirty sometimes Robbie, it's just how the game works. But you're right, very unexpected by Raab. But hey, you've got to do what you've got to do to get the win!

1

2

3

4

Not enough to keep Gaia down, who's back up on her feet, with blood dripping down from her forehead.

Black: Yep, and he busted her wide open!

Gaia receives a massive pop from the audience as she wipes the blood away with her forearm, her eyes growing sadistic as she glares at Raab.

Hamilton: The Event Horizon looks like she's ready for war!

Running toward each other, the two engage in a fist brawl of exchanges to are relentless, and hard hitting, and almost sickening to watch, with Raab using his strength and power to best her in the dual of exchanges! He has her up against the ropes and is continuing to pound her with a combination of boxing punches, jabs connecting after jabs, before a sickening right hook connects! But she doesn't falter, she doesn't fall! Raab takes a step backwards after the referee gets between the two competitors.

Black: You can't be serious?! How the hell is she still up after that right hook connected?!

Gaia turns her head towards Raab, a second burst of life rushing through her.

Black: ROUNDHOUSEE KICK!

A gruesome kick to the back of the head of Raab connects, to the audiences disbelief as they thought Gaia was about to fall. But no! Raab staggers, managing to remain on his feet!

Johnson: What the hell just happened!

Hamilton: I'll tell you what just happened, Raab just got his head kicked in!

Raab falls to one knee.

Gaia takes a run up, driving her knee into the side of the head of Raab!

Black: Seismós Strike!

Falling on the canvas instantaneously. Gaia holds onto the ropes and looks on outside, exhaling heavily and also struggling to keep herself up on her feet.

1

2

Black: Is this how it ends?

3

4

Johnson: I can't see Raab coming back from this Robbie, I really can't.

5

There's minimal movement from Raab, who shakes his head and rolls himself onto his back.

6

Hamilton: He gave it everything he got!

Realizing what's happening, he looks at Gaia who's still looking on to the outside, perhaps presuming she's already won.

7

Using everything he has left in him, he crawls over to the ropes and you can hear the elation from the audience, which catches the attention of Gaia who slowly, turns around.

8

Looking like she's seen a ghost, she opens her mouth in disbelief.

Black: The Iceman isn't going to give in! He isn't going to let go!

9

And the Iceman is back up on his feet!

Hamilton: She can't believe it! But nor can I!

The arena is rocking as The Iceman gets back up onto his feet and stands in a fighting stance, ready to fight, ready to continue, ready for war. She rushes over to him, looking for a lariat but he ducks under her arm and heads to the ropes himself. Bouncing off of them, he returns with a Lou Thesz press, mounting on top of her and unloading with a barrel of punches!

Getting off of her, Raab rises to his feet and roars to the audience, who applaud him and cheer him on. He then signals the end of the contest, shaking his head side to side and shouting, "THIS, ENDS, NOW!", and the Japanese audience understand what that means, and the volume in the arena picks up. And all of a sudden, there's a buzz, an electric buzz that's flowing through the arena as Raab grabs Gaia, and lifts her up onto her feet. 

Throwing her hands up in the air, she connects with a forearm strike. 

He stumbles back, but returns one, receiving a pop from the audience. 

Connecting with another, and another but Gaia then sends her knee into the gut of Raab. 

She lifts him up briefly, before crashing back down as she connects with a brainbuster!

Black: BRAINBUSTER BY GAIA GALANOS! 

1

2

3

4

5

6

Boos echo through the arena as Gaia latches onto the ropes, using them to keep herself up. 

7

8

9

DING DING DING!

Black: It's all over! Gaia Galanos takes the victory!

The bell sounds and “When I Look At You (Metal/Dubstep Remix)” by Emalkay plays through the speakers. Boo's echoing through the arena as Gaia's arm is raised by the official and she grins, blood continuing to trickle down her forehead.

Mai Kado: And the winner of the match... GAIA GALANOS!


Winner: Gaia Galanos (15:01)

[James Peterson]

AVAILABLE ON AXXESS NETWORK

Frontier Grappling Arts presents: Only The Strong Survive

Sussex County Championship Wrestling presents Emergence

ONLY ON AXXESSNET!

[James Peterson]

Match Four
Tag Team Match
Tommy Knox & Jason Cashe [c] vs. Asuka Yoshiro & King KOJIMA

Coming back from the brief messages, already in the ring are the competitors for the next match. Asuka Yoshiro and King Kojima in conversation in one corner, whilst the GPC World Tag Team Champions mock their opponents in the opposite, receiving a positive reaction from the audience.

Black: Jason Cashe and Tommy Knox are back in Japan! And here I thought they'd never come back, but here they are, where they belong with those tag team championships. Tag-Team-Tropolis last year was a massive success for the promotion but more specifically, for these two fighters right here. Walking away with those tag team championships against a stack load of talented men and women. Could you argue that these two are the best team in the world?

The camera fixates on the two champions who continue to mock their opponents but Yoshiro and Kojima are not amused, shaking their heads in disappointment.

Hamilton: I wasn't around last year to watch the event, but I've heard of both of these men, I think everyone has by now. They've had those championship belts in their possession for over a year now, and I think, it's more than okay to say that these two are the best team in the world, without a doubt.

Johnson: Well, I'm going to have to disagree with you guys. Sure, they've held the title for a year now but they haven't actually defended those titles, have they? And if they have, it hasn't been against any team with any merit or credit? I'm not discrediting their talent, both of these men are talented individuals but to say they're the best team in the world? They've still got a long way before they can convince me of that.

DING DING DING!

The bell goes and starting off in the ring is Jason Cashe and Kojima. Cashe is still having a conversation with Knox, the two bantering about their opponents and laughing hysterically, which to a veteran like Kojima, is damn disrespectful. He storms over to Cashe and pats him on the back, Cashe turns around and is met with a vicious strike from Kojima, who then yells at him for not taking the match seriously. Cashe holds onto his jaw and you can tell that he isn't too pleased about it all, there's an anger building inside of him, as Kojima continues to yell, getting louder and louder, closer and closer to Cashe, who erupts and hits him with a double jab combo.

He then connects with a bell slap, slapping both ears of Kojima who holds onto them and stumbles to the center of the ring whilst Cashe hits the ropes, bouncing off of them but Kojima counters with a stiff shoulder barge that has Cashe down on the canvas. Kojima heads to the ropes and Cashe is now back up on his feet. Kojima bounces off of the ropes and Cashe catches him with a clothesline. Kojima comes back up but isn't up for too long, as Cashe connects with another clothesline. The veteran rises to his feet but once again, Cashe is there to strike him down with a clothesline. Cashe isn't letting up. He connects with another clothesline, and another, and another, until the point he is physically drained and can't run any longer, bending over and trying to recompose himself, with the audience applauding him. Kojima is up and looks at Cashe, laughing as the old man waddles towards him with a sense of swag and cockiness, straightening him up and slapping him across the chest! The slap echoes through the arena as Cashe falls back into the ropes, coming off of them and headbutting Kojima!

Johnson: What a headbutt!

Hamilton: I think Jason hurt himself more than he hurt Kojima!

Both men stumble away from each other, holding onto their foreheads in obvious pain. Cashe then smacks himself, regaining his concentration. He heads over to Kojima and locks him in a side headlock, delivering with noogie whilst the hold is intact before Kojima pushes him off. Kojima runs at Cashe, who slides underneath his arm across the canvas, now in behind him he wraps his arms around his waists but Kojima back elbows him away. Turning around Kojima knee's Cashe in the stomach and brings him over to his corner, with Yoshiro tapping his back and becoming eligible.

Entering the ring Yoshiro strikes Cashe over the back with a double axe handle before swinging him to the ropes, Cashe comes back and is hit with an elbow to the face, which to many ordinary man would've forced them down to the canvas. But Jason Cashe has never been an ordinary. Cashe turns to Yoshiro, who's rather surprised by the response of Cashe, who shakes his head. Cashe slaps him in the face, Yoshiro slaps him back, Cashe then forearm strikes and Yoshiro returns. Yoshiro looks for the kick, Cashe catches his boot, takes him down with a singular take down, looks to nail him with a quick elbow but Yoshiro moves out of the way, they're both back up on their feet with Yoshiro looking for a lariat but Cashe ducks, and hits him with a back to back cutter!

Black: Under the influence by Jason Cashe!

Hamilton: Oh God that gotta hurt!

1
.
.
.

2

Kojima comes in with the save! Knox tries to enter the ring but the official gets in his way.

Johnson: This one could've been over if it wasn't for Kojima with the save!

Holding onto the back of his head, Yoshiro rolls over to his corner - tactically knowing that it's going to take him a while to recuperate whilst Cashe leaps over to Tommy Knox, who's eager to get in on the action. Both teammates tag themselves in, meeting in the center of the ring and engaging in a fist brawl of shots. Knox then incorporates his head to the sequence with a headbutt, proving he's as crazy as his tag team partner before devouring Kojima with an open hand slap!

Black: Oh God no..

Kojima lets out an almighty roar before slapping Knox in the face, who falls to the canvas.

Black: And that's what happens when you slap Kojima in the face!

Picking him back up, he has him by his hair and Kojima throws him to the corner before running at him and connecting with a clothesline. He takes off to the ropes whilst Knox stumbles out of the corner and towards the center, and as Kojima comes back toward Knox, The American Highlife is quick to counter with a drop kick to the knee's. Kojima falls face first onto the canvas and Knox immediately gets back up onto his feet. An onslaught of stomps to the knees of Kojima ensuing in a relentless form. He then gives up and picks Kojima up. Knox connects with two right kicks to the Kojima's thigh and then a left kick to his stomach. As Kojima lunges over from the last kick, he wraps his head with his right arm and then plants it into the mat with a powerful, swift DDT.

Racing into the ring is Asuka Yoshiro who looks to attack Tommy Knox. The American Highlife blocks a strike attempt and connects with one of his own before sending Yoshiro out of the ring! Jason Cashe, who's on the apron, looks at the audience with a grin before looking at Knox, who's pointing at the top rope. Knox then bring Kojima over to the turnbuckle, hoisting him up onto the top rope with Kojima's back facing the ring. Knox then makes the tag to Cashe, who remains on the apron, latching onto the ropes whilst Kojima sits on the top rope, Cashe propels himself over the top rope and grabs onto the neck of Kojima, connecting with a springboard back to back cutter!

Black: OH MY GOOODDDDDDDD!

Johnson: Under the Influence, times two?

Hamilton: That was one hell of a move!

Cashe then gets to his feet and The American Highlife is up on the top rope, he makes the tag before latching onto the ropes once more, springboarding his way out of the ring and landing on Yoshiro on the outside!

Black: And Yoshiro has been taken out! Time for the American Highlife!

Preparing himself on the top rope, Knox takes a deep breathe before leaping off of the ropes and connecting with a frog splash, otherwise known as The American Highlife!

Johnson: And there it is!

1
.
.
.

2
.
.
.
3

Black: And they've got the win!

DING DING DING!

Mai Kado: And the winners of the match... the GPC WORLD TAG TEAM CHAMPIONS... JASON CASHE AND TOMMY KNOX!

Cashe joins Knox in the ring and the two men are passed their tag team championship belts, with their arms raised in the air by the official. Despite not being fan favorites, the audience applaud them for their efforts as yet again, the team of Jason Cashe and Tommy Knox come away with another win. 

Winner: Tommy Knox & Jason Cashe (6:23)

[James Peterson]

PRESS CONFERENCE HIGHLIGHTS
ACE KING

“OK, we’ve got time for one more question,” Peterson interjects; the microphone is passed around the press gallery, until it lands in a very familiar hand.

“Uh oh,” Ace laughs as he sees Shelley Silver, his girlfriend and NJFC backstage interviewer, with the microphone. The rest of the media gallery turns back to Shelley, then start laughing once they realize what’s happening.

Shelley offers a quick smile and wave before raising the microphone to her mouth.

“Just following up on the last question, Ace,” she begins. “The two of you are sure to have a high-calibre match tomorrow, but how does the idea of possibly facing him again in the Global Takeover semifinals affect your mindset going in?”

“It doesn’t,” he responds with a head tilt. “Because that’s still a few weeks away, and that field means there’s no guarantees; Otaki’s good, so she could easily put me out. This is the only match I care about right now. Should the situation arise, it’s a match I’ll learn from, win or lose, but I can’t afford to look too far ahead. Devin Hearst is the main target right now, and I don’t intend to miss.”

Ace rises from his chair with a handshake from Peterson before bowing to the Japanese media, retrieving his EWC Television Championship and leaving the podium area.

Black: 
Growing up under the bright lights of Las Vegas, Eric Carr wanted to be the greatest entertainer to ever come out of “The Entertainment Capital Of The World”. While living in Vegas, he saw countless headlining bands come in and out of the city, and thought he might one day want to make a living in music in some capacity. However, his family thought otherwise, as they wanted him to become a doctor... Or do something that made him a lot of money. Because he strongly disagreed with the rationale of his family, constantly escalating into physical and verbal altercations, Carr fell into a deep depression. 

Eventually, Carr immersed himself in the world of gambling, as he always loved the concept of risk. After a short time, he found he was quite good at it despite being so young. He was well on his way to earning a World Series Of Poker bracelet, when he decided to leave the table for a moment to use the bathroom. In his travels, he heard loud cheering coming from a different area of the casino. Curious, he followed the sound of the cheering, and what he found was an independent wrestling event taking place. It was at this point that Carr decided he wanted to become a professional wrestler, much to the dismay of his family. 

After training in Mexico with Jose Lothario for two and a half years, Ace King made his pro wrestling debut within the walls of Combat Zone Wrestling in 2008 as one of its original competitors. Over the next eight years, Ace built a legacy very few could touch, all while remaining loyal to CZW despite having countless opportunities to go elsewhere as his fellow competitors dispersed. 

Fast-forward to 2016, and CZW appeared to be on its death knell for the last time. Ace had returned to help defend CZW against a group hellbent on returning the promotion to its hardcore roots, while King and co. sought a more hybrid style where wrestling wasn't overshadowed by weapons. The matter was resolved as Ace took down his greatest rival, 'Bad Ass' Matt Covey, to capture an unprecedented third CZW World Heavyweight Championship in a Last Man Breathing Match. 

Once CZW closed, Ace realized he wasn't quite finished with being an active performer in the business, despite running a wrestling school called The King's Court back in Las Vegas (his other source of income). So, at age 34, he stepped onto the big stage for the first time himself, competing on EWC’s Friday Night Rampage, where he recently won his first Television Championship.

DEVIN HEARST

Hearst watched them for a moment, then stood up. With his ever-present grimace deepening, Hearst turned away from the press ... and toward James Peterson.

With the intent of a slow-crawling predator, Hearst slithered his way toward the owner of NJFC, a dead expression on his face. He scanned Peterson, eyes narrowed, before taking the mic up to his lips ... but he did not say anything. He just glared ahead.

In a flash, Hearst turned to the decoration of the room; banners hung with displays of champions, warriors, and moments of glory in NJFC. The beast's eye was caught by one in particular; a banner with images of himself and his opponent at the ironically named "New Hope in Tokyo", Ace King. Hearst held his focus on the face of the EWC Television Champion for minutes, which some thought would turn to hours. With a grunt, Hearst dropped his mic to the ground which made a terrible, static-laced pop when it landed, and brought his arm up high until his hand, now shaped into a gun like the weapon that it was, pointed at the forehead of his opponent. Hearst pulled the trigger, and with an inaudible "bang", the lights died once again.

More murmurs.

More confusion.

One could not say how long they crawled in the dark for, but when the lights were restored, Hearst and his compatriots were nowhere to be found. The gasps from the apparent teleportation were only amplified, camera flashes and commotion filling the room like salt water in a sinking ship, when the banner came back into view. Torn, tattered, Ace's visage now stood eyeless with a whole in his chest. Across the entire banner, and that of every banner hung in the room, a message in red paint was written under the sight of a pyramid housing the all seeing eye. It read:

"WE ARE MANY"

Black
Fighting out of the streets of Hell's Kitchen, New York, the formerly homeless Devin Hearst was taught how to fight the hard way: as a means for survival. Hired by a mysterious employer, Hearst jumped from the bottom of the barrel out and into the center of the universe. With history in Las Vegas, the United Kingdom and of course, Japan, Hearst made his mark in NJFC by becoming the first ever NJFC Global Champion and remaining undefeated for his short stint (his title being stripped due to his disappearance). Back in Japan, Hearst has his eyes on conquest; the best form of revenge for the unidentified "her" he speaks of.

Showcase Match
Singles Match
Ace King vs. Devin Hearst

The crowd hears Lemmy's growl, and they go nuts as the opening bass line to 'Ace of Spades' rips through Ryōgoku Kokugikan. As the drums kick in, pyro goes off up and down the ramp in time with the beat, while frenetic red and gold spotlights pulse through the building before fixating on the ramp.

Mai Kado: Making his way to the ring, FROM Las Vegas, Nevada, weighing in at 225 pounds... He is the EWC TELEVISION CHAMPION... THE GAMBLER... AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAACE KIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIINGGGGGG!!!

There's a huge explosion as the guitar kicks in, and the crowd roars as the one and only Ace King rises from a platform through the smoke of the pyro and into the spotlights, soaking in the ovation with his championship draped over his shoulder. 'The Gambler' stays on a knee, taking the title down to look at it for a few minutes. He takes a deep breath and walks to the ring, calmly interacting with fans all the way down the ramp.

He stops for a couple seconds at the end of the ramp, then charges to the ring, with gold pyro exploding from the turnbuckles as he dives in under the bottom rope. He spins up onto one knee and stares out into the crowd before getting to his feet and hoisting his championship up for all to see. Once he hands the belt to the referee, he gets his game face on while staring a hole through his opponent.

Black: Ladies and Gentlemen, what a match we've got for you in our showcase position. The current, EWC Television Champion, taking on the first ever Global champion. 

Johnson: It's already been an extraordinary night Robbie, but this, this has the makings of a classic. Fierce rivals who basically requested for this match on social media, stepping into the ring for war tonight.  

Mai Kado: And his opponent...

Static takes the screens; within the interference the black outline of a pyramid fades in. As the arena settles, the gruff of Willem Dafoe's voice from "The Boondock Saints" echoes out:

"This place was a fuckin' bombin'...for a few seconds....this place was Armageddon.....THERE WAS A FIRE FIGHT!"

And the center of the pyramid flashes open to a yellow, serpentine eye accompanied by the name "DEVIN HEARST". To an explosive though mixed reaction, Devin Hearst appears at the top of the entrance way; a scowl blackened by the shadow of the hood over his head. He wastes no time, starting on the warpath to the ring with rage in his eyes and purpose in every step.

Mai Kado: From Hells Kitchen, New York - weighing in a two hundred and twenty five pounds... DEVINNNN HEAAARSSSSTTT!

He shakes out his arms and hands before making his way to the ring steps and running up them, gripping the top rope with one hand and turning to face a wild crowd! Hearst leaps onto the middle and top ropes from the outside, shooting a hand into the air. Hearst leaps into the ring, running to the other corner and leaping up, shooting his hand into the air once more! Hearst drops back into the ring and takes his corner, stretching as he awaits the match.

Black: All night, this crowd has been electric, one of the perks of being involved in the Japanese scene. 

Hamilton: It's unreal Robbie, they fall to silence one minute to admire the art that these guys dedicate their lives to, and then the next, a round of applause for their efforts, it's astonishing. And this match, this is one hundred percent going to be a battle.

DING DING DING!

The bell rings yet the two men remain in a stationary position, looking at one another in calculation, also trying to intimidate one another as the audience fall to silence. The two then begin to circle the ring and they've become relaxed, or at least they're exterior body language is displaying this. They walk around the ring slowly, taking their time and shaking out their arms and legs, however they never take their eyes off one another, they've always got their eyes glued onto each other. The two the simultaneously begin to come toward the center of the ring, with Ace putting his arm up to connect with a knuckle lock however Hearst is hesitant and swings a boot, with Ace quickly backing away to avoid connection. Coming together in the middle of the ring again, hands and arms are thrown about, as each man looks to connect with a hold but on their own grounds but neither materializes. Ace then throws a boot towards Hearst who catches his foot and Ace is now stumbling a little, however manages to get away just in time. The two circle the ring again and play the same game as they reach the middle, struggling to reach even grounds as they throws hands up to connect with the knuckle hold, a game of mercy, but neither are willing to connect. Ace King gets into a lower stance, seemingly trying to get Hearst down with a double leg take down but Hearst is quick to react, wiggling his way out of it.

They position their hands in the centre of the ring and one hand connects with another but then Hearst swings a boot toward Ace, catching him with Ace already in a low stance, and locking him in a side headlock as he presses him down against the canvas, with Ace managing to get out of it but now Hearst has him where he wants him, right in front of him with Ace's legs wrapped around the back of Hearst, putting his hands up to avoid any impending strikes Hearst may deliver. Hearst doesn't go for any strikes, and instead, looks to engage in a better mat based position, working his way from the front of Ace to his back, however Ace manages to tangle his way out of being at a disadvantage, with the two intertwining in a series of locks from the ground with Hearst always at the forefront. Hearst manages to get on top of Ace and slowly rises to his feet, with his hands on the feet of Ace, who kicks him backwards, with Hearst now falling onto the canvas and Ace now holding onto his feet. Ace looks for a full mount position from the ground but Hearst is quick to transition into a leg lock on Ace, who without thought, leaps to the ropes for the rope break.

Black: These two having been intertwining with a series of locks from the ground, minimal strikes connecting, it's like a grappling match we've got ourselves here, guys.

Johnson: Something, I don't think we expected. These two are known for their brash, sometimes harsh, devastating hits that can knock an opponent into next week. But they're showing that they've got more than that in their locker.

The former NJFC Global Champion is up on his feet first, stretching his arms as he looks down at his prey Ace King, who slowly gets up to his feet. The two pause and embrace the applause of the audience, not acknowledging the cheers at all, as their eyes are focused on one another, but allowing time to recuperate and think of different plans to approach. They circle the ring and attempt to engage in a knuckle lock but Ace is quick to transition into a hammerlock from behind, but Hearst is already one step ahead, getting in behind Ace shortly afterwards and wrapping his arms around his waist. Hearst then brings the arms of Ace are and locks him into a full nelson hold, quickly turning him around and flipping him into a seated position, coming to his front and looking to connect with a boot to the chest but Ace hits the canvas to avoid the connection, and rises to his feet.

Black: That could've been very, very bad for Ace King there but he managed to avoid the kick from Devin Hearst. We know what Devin is like with those kicks, those legs of his, generate so much power.. no one would want to be on the end of them, I can tell you that for a fact.

Hamilton: Ace King is as knowledge as they come Robbie, he knows the danger that Devin possess and that's his striking ability. He's a heavy hitter, it's what got him the Global championship the first time round. And he'll be looking to pick up where he left off in a months time.

Back in their corners, the two look at each other from across the ring, the audience once again applauding the men for their efforts. Circling the ring, the two come to the center of the ring and look to engage in a hold, however Devin then lunges forward with a knee to the mid section of King, flipping him into a seated position before driving his knee into his back and holding it down, pulling back on the jaw of King who struggles. Hearst then transitions into a headscissors and pulls back on the arm of King, transitioning from this, into pinning the arm of King against the canvas, and driving his knee into it. Keeping his knee there, he tugs on the arm of King, and grins whilst doing so, inflicting pain on King giving Hearst the pleasure he desired. He then gets off of him, and stomps on the already damaged arm, to the dismay of King, who winces in pain, holding onto it, and shouting "Shit!"

Hearst then locks him into an arm bar and keeps him in it for a while, simultaneously smashing onto his head with his free hand. The referee asks where King wants to quit, but King replies "Fuck no!", to the laughter of the audience, who the majority may not be fluent english, but they understand the word, "fuck". King then reaches the ropes, using his leg to break the hold and Hearst gets off of him, but immediately goes back to work with a kick to the arm. He kicks him again as King leans against the corner. Holding onto his head, he brings him back up and to the center of the ring. King then throws his arms up into the air and The Gambler connects with a shoot kick to the leg, followed by a heavy forearm punch, that stuns Hearst who staggers backwards. Another kick from King connects, the sound of it, sickening and surreal, and he connects with another kick to the hamstring of Hearst, who's beginning to struggle to remain on his feet. The Gambler then runs to the ropes, returns and performs a slingblade on Hearst, taking him down to the canvas. Hearst holds onto the back of his head as he hits the canvas but King isn't done just there. He quickly mounts on top of him looking to connect with some strikes but Hearst throws his defenses up to block any strikes that may come his way. Ace then re positions Hearst into a fujiwara hold. He tightens the hold, and from the look on his face, it's clear to see he has the intention of breaking the arm of Devin Hearst!

Black: Ace has got that Fujiwara Armbar locked in tight!

The referee asks if Hearst wants to give up, but Hearst doesn't reply verbally, instead using his head to signal no. Hearst, then manages to scramble his legs over to the ropes, to enable a rope break! Ace doesn't let go and the referee begins his count!

1

2

3

4

Once he let go, out went Hearst to the outside, holding onto his arm before slowly rising to his feet. He then rolled himself back into the ring and King was on him like a rash. Boots to the arms connecting. The EWC Television Champion then connected with a blow to the back of the head, as Hearst used the ropes to help himself up. Ace then locks him in a standard hammerlock, before forcing him into the padded corner, running him into it. Hearst drop to his knees, holding onto his arm specifically. King then brought him back up to his feet, connecting with a European uppercut that has Hearst stumbling back down. He brings him back up, grabbing onto his arm and sending his elbow through it, before yanking it down and Irish whips him to the ropes. Hearst comes back and has no reply for the drop kick that Ace King delivers on him. King then looks to mount on top of him, Hearst rolls onto his back but King then locks him into a hammerlock from there, bringing him back up onto his feet.

Irish whips him to the ropes, Hearst comes back and ducks underneath a clothesline attempt from King, wrapping his arms around his waist, he looks for the German but King holds his ground, momentarily in the air for seconds but managing to force his way back down and sending elbows backwards into Hearst, who releases him from his grasp. King turns around and connects with an open palm strike on Hearst to the cheek, which is followed by a shoot kick to the hamstring, which is then followed by King grabbing onto Hearst and lifting him up into the air in a vertical based suplex position. He holds him up there, showing his athleticism and because of that, gaining cheers from the audience before the move has even been delivered. But he does go through with it, delivering the move with precision.

Black: The EWC Television Champion, showing why he is a champion with that vertical suplex on Devin Hearst. I think Hearst is surprised by this performance from Ace King. I mean, we don't know what's ever going through the mind of Hearst but I don't think he was expecting this. I don't think he was ready for such a fight.

Hamilton: A fight this is. Ace King is a veteran, he's been in this game for a long time so he has the experience factor on Hearst. But I've got to admit to, he's been bringing it to Hearst and I'm not sure he knows how to react to that.

Mounting on top of him, Ace goes for the pin.

1

.

.

.

2

Black: First pin attempt of the match, but Hearst manages to kick out.

Johnson: Is it wrong that I'm rooting for Devin? I think it might be his beard that's doing it for me.

Black: You mean to tell me that you're rooting for this man, because of his beard?

Johnson: It's a badass beard Robbie, deal with it.

On his feet, Ace is circling the ring and patiently waiting for Devin to recuperate, allowing him time may not be the smartest tactic, but that's what he's doing. Hearst is in a seated position, holding onto his arm and King rushes to him, swinging his boot and connecting with a kick to the chest. He turns around after the connection is made, and exhales heavily, unaware that despite the connection being hard, Hearst is back up in a seated position, gaining a reaction from the audience.

Black: Well that just isn't normal!

Wiping the sweat away from his face, Devin smirks arrogantly and remains in his seated position, looking at King who's bewildered. Connecting with another kick to the chest, Devin hasn't even budged back, not even the slightest, and you can tell that's beginning to get into the head of Ace. Who this time, connects with a forearm strike to the seated Hearst. Yet again, Hearst is calm, and composed. Hearst ascends to his feet and nods his head at Ace, winking at him and inviting him to deliver some more shots. Ace looks around the arena as he leans against the ropes, not knowing if this man is being serious right now. He accepts however, walking towards Hearst and delivering a kick to the chest, however Hearst stands there and eats the pain, allowing the pain to fuel him to sustain more damage, because he knew eventually, it'd be what turns the match in his favor. Hearst continues to receive kicks to the chest but to no prevail for Ace, who's dumbfounded, lost for words and Hearst is excessively shouting abuse!

"My grandma can hit harder than that!"

A kick connects!

"You kick like a fuckin' bitch!"

A kick connects!

"Is that all you've fuckin' got!"

The Gambler swings another boot in the direction of Hearst, who catches his leg, drops it, taking a step backwards and performing a roundhouse kick on Ace King, who crumbles to the canvas.

Black: WOW! That was an insane roundhouse kick from Devin Hearst!

Hamilton: He may have just changed the direction of the match!

Johnson: That, was hot.

Hearst then Irish whips King to the corner and greets him there with a forearm smash, that connects sweetly. He runs towards the opposite corner, unaware that King is stalking, as Hearst hits the padded corner to turn around, King replies with an uppercut! He runs to the opposite corner, with Hearst following just behind, King turns around and Hearst delivers the same treatment with an uppercut! Hearst then straights him up in the corner and unloads a series of forearm strikes to Ace King, who's appearing groggy and has no reply for the shots being connected. Hearst then runs to the ropes as King stumbles out of the corner, hitting the ropes, Hearst comes back and performs a Yakuza kick on King! He then mounts on top of him for the pin.

1

.

.

.

2
.

The EWC Television Champion manages to kick out.

Black: And Ace manages to kick out!

The Seven Headed Beast stands tall whilst King uses the ropes to help himself up, turning around and leaning against them, the two lock eyes with King stumbling from the ropes to the center, Hearst looking to connect with a strike but King ducks, a shoot kick connects to the ribs of Hearst. The two then get in each others face, their heads connecting as they try to force each other in opposite directions. King then takes off to the ropes and delivers an uppercut to Hearst. Who turns his head, smirks, and shakes his head before taking off to the ropes himself, bouncing off and hitting him with a high jump knee strike to the face. Ace stumbles back into the ropes, coming back but Hearst connects with a knee to the mid section, wrapping his arms around him and looking for a belly to belly! King refuses to go up and over, with one headbutt connecting to disable the hold! Hearst stumbles backwards, affected by the headbutt, he turns his head to King, and delivers a right hand punch out of nowhere to King! The referee rushes to check if King is OK, but he's remained on his feet, the illegal move not doing enough to knock King down. Hearst then swings his boot toward King, who catches it, spins him round and performs a German suplex on Devin Hearst!

Black: Ace King with a German suplex to silence Devin Hearst!

Hamilton: Impact, that's what that was. I don't care what you think Dirge, there's no way Hearst is going to knock Ace King out tonight.

Johnson: This match is still going Ashley, we'll see about that!

Volume in the arena has picked up, and the fans are in awe of the action. King then mounts on top of Hearst for the cover.

1
.

.

.

2

.

.

The two lie on their backs in the middle of the ring, the audience applauding both men for their fantastic efforts thus far. King has his head in his hands and is the first to begin the rise to his feet. He picks Hearst up and looks for a suplex but Hearst is holding down, not allowing himself to be lifted up. The Gambler realizes he's not going to get him up and over, and instead, manages to transition into an abdominal stretch submission position, to the amazement of the audience and Hearst alike, who's eyes have flared up in shock as King shuts his eyes closed and tightens the hold with everything he has left in him!

Black: The abdominal stretch is locked in! We know Hearst has rib problems, they may be brought back permanently here tonight!

And you can see it in the eyes of Devin Hearst, he's struggling.

Johnson: C'mon Hearst!

Dirge must be the only person who's wanting Hearst to win in the whole arena, as the audience are rooting for Ace King, who's made quite the impression on them on his return to Japan in over a decade. Hearst is inches away from the ropes, but he's getting closer, and closer, and closer before -

Black: He's got the ropes!

King holds onto the submission and the referee begins a count!

1

2

3

4

Letting go of the hold, King forces Hearst off of the ropes and to the center of the ring. He lifts him up onto his shoulders, more specifically, a position specialized for an Argentine backbreaker.

Black: What's King looking to do here?!

He then twirls him round and sends him down in a powerbomb!

Black: ARRGEEENNNTINNEEEE BAAAAACKKKBREAAKKKEERRR!

The atmosphere has reached and all time high, and Ace has gone for the pin!

1
.

.

.


2

.

.


- NOOOOOOO!

REPLAY BOARD

Exhaling heavily, Hearst can't believe his luck. He can't believe what just happened. And he won't believe that he's going to let this one slip away from his grasp. Getting up to his feet, he feeds off the energy of the audience and rallies them up whilst Hearst slowly gets to his feet. Hearst is by the corner, and King runs towards him looking to connection with a splash but Hearst moves out of the way just in time, allowing King to connect with the corner, as he turns around, Hearst connects with a spinning back elbow!

Black: SPINNINNNG BACK ELBOW FROM THE SEVEN HEADED BEAST!

Hamilton: Did you hear that?! That was unreal!

Groggy, but remains on his feet. Hearst then wraps his arms around him and performs a German suplex!

Black: GERMAN SUPLEX FROM DEVIN HEARST!

Somehow, someway, King has managed to find his way up onto his feet, to the audiences delight. He's now in behind Hearst, and delivers a German suplex of his own!

Hamilton: Anything you can do, I can do better! Ace King with a German!

And this time, it's Devin Hearst who's managed to roll himself back up onto his feet, and the audience are ecstatic at the action that they're witnessing, with Hearst lifting King up into the air and performing a German suplex!

Black: IT'S SUPLEX CITY HERE IN TOKYO, JAPAN!

Johnson: German suplex city, if you're going to be accurate Robbie.

The two are back up on their feet in no time, however they're worse for wear with King connecting a European uppercut that has Devin Hearst rocking backwards, it's sharp and precise. But Devin Hearst is able to reply with "The Morning Star!", a spinning back heel kick connecting on King and the two men hit the canvas immediately afterwards.

Black: THE MORNING STAR BY DEVIN HEARST! WHAT BACK AND FORTH ACTION FROM THESE TWO MEN! THAT WAS UNBELIEVABLE!

Hamilton: Shot after shot, move after move, but that spinning back heel kick done the trick to knock both of these guys down, amazing!

The arena is electric.

But men remain lying on the canvas looking up to the heavens, with the referee checking up on both men.

Black: This is all in the name of honor! This is all in the name of dignity! Both of these men have brought it here tonight! And by God, I have no idea who's going to be leaving Tokyo as the victor!

Both men are on their knees and facing one another, beaten up and bruised, the two men begin an exchange of blows from their kneeling position. These strikes are dominantly forearm strikes, with the audience reacting after each man connects. The connection get harder, and gradually, the two men rise to their feet, with the strikes now coming at a faster pace. Hearst delivers a forearm strike that forces King to stagger, just stagger, and King uses the shot to fuel his own energy, coming back with an uppercut. The two then run toward each other, knocking each other down with clotheslines!

Black: This, is, wrestling at it's finest!

Johnson: New Japan Fighting Championship is back baby!

Latching onto the ropes, both men use them as a guide to help themselves back up onto their feet, on opposite sides of the ring from one another. Hearst is the first up and leans back against the ropes, exhaling heavily before running towards King, who catches him with the "High Roller" codebreaker!

Black: THE HIGH ROLLER CONNECTS!

Robbie is screaming from the top of his lungs yet again, as King hooks the legs of Hearst!

1
.

.

.

2

.

.

NOOOOOO!

King pounds hard on the canvas with his fists.

Johnson: Devin Hearst is still in this one! Let's go Devin!

Hamilton: Ace King is giving it everything he has left in him right now, one big move and this one could be all done!

Scrambling to the ropes, King helps himself up and picks up Devin Hearst. Sending knee's into his mid section whilst having a hold of his head, he then connects with a variety of shoot kicks all over the body, starting with the right leg, then the back, then the left leg, then the chest, taking off to the ropes, coming back and being met with a jumping knee strike to the head!

Black: WHAT A HIT FROM DEVIN HEARST!

Yells Robbie again, and King falls to a seated position, setting up Devin Hearst nicely who's taken off to the ropes, bouncing off of them and connects with a kick to the chest of King!

Black: THE PATH OF LIONSSS!

REPLAY BOARD

Falling on top of him..

Hearst is going for the pin!

1

.

.

.

2

.

.

.

3!

DING DING DING!

Black: HE'S DONE IT! DEVIN HEARST REMAINS UNBEATEN HERE IN NEW JAPAN FIGHTING CHAMPIONSHIP!

The bell sounds and "Love Lost in a Hail of Gunfire" by Bleeding Through plays through the PA system. Both men remain on the canvas, beaten, bruised, and all over the place as the referee tends to both men to check if they're OK. A team of medics burst into the ring to assist both men. 

Mai Kado: And the winner of the match.. DEVIN HEARSST!

Shaking the medics off of him, Hearst leans against the ropes and ignores the referee's attempt to hold his arm up in victory. Instead, he just leans against the ropes, and looks on the outside, his facial expressions indicating that he's just been in the fight of his life. He turns toward Ace King, who's being helped up by the medics on the other side of the ring. There's a look of disappointment on the face of King, who's leaning against the padded corner with the medics checking up on him. Hearst barges through the team of medics and looks King in the eyes, and the two gaze at each other, longingly. Hearst nods his head as almost a sign of respect and King nods his head back at him, with Hearst then rolling out of the ring. 

Hamilton: Wow, did.. that just happen? Devin Hearst acknowledging another human being? 

Black: It's a special night Ashley, and after that special match, Devin could only give respect to Ace King, with a tremendous effort from the Extreme Wrestling Corporation television champ.

King is passed his television champion and he holds it close to his chest, looking around the arena as he stands in the middle of the ring, and he nods his head, being embraced by cheers and applause by the Japanese crowd. A beautiful moment to finish what was, another NJFC classic. 

Winner: Devin Hearst (28:01)

[James Peterson]

BACKSTAGE

---

The feed cuts backstage and we see Chris Madison forcefully push open his locker room door. He begins marching his way through the rear corridors of the Ryougoku Sumo Hall with his manager, Frankie Morrison following every footstep by his side. Madison shadow boxes along the way trying to keep himself loose for his main event match against Owen Gonsalves. They make it around the corner of the Gorilla Position and Morrison positions himself in Chris's line of sight.

Frankie Morrison: This is it Chris... You lobbied for me to work out a deal that would allow you to return to Japan at your discretion. Owen Gonsalves sees this as an opportunity to expand his horizons; but at no point, did he ever consider what he was up against. He mocked your win at FGA's Only The Strong Survive. He mocked that championship belt that you worked so hard to capture. He's floating on cloud nine thinking this is some kind of fun vacation...

Chris Madison: Well, then the only one he has to blame for the worst beating of his entire life is himself!

Frankie's grin stretched from ear to ear as he watched his client bounce from side to side on the balls of his feet. 

Frankie Morrison: Hopefully the kid has enough of a brain to see that he's stepped on his own feet and poured gasoline onto a raging fire!

Chris stopped bouncing and looked his manager in the eyes.

Chris Madison: The kid willingly took this match?

Frankie Morrison: Yeah...

Chris Madison: He's looking forward to mixing it up with me?

Frankie Morrison: Yeah...

Chris Madison: He actually thinks he's got a fighting chance at beating me out there?

Frankie Morrison: Yeah...

Chris Madison: Says it all, this kid is too stupid for his own good. He's up against a war machine... I thrive in moments like this, the first main event match in NJFC's return. He's about to become a footnote in the history books, a trivia question for wrestling aficionados. Tonight his feel-good Japan tour starts and ends with me!!

Frankie Morrison nods his head, approving of his clients determination to go out there and leave a lasting impression. The two turn the corner and close in on the Gorilla Position as the time for Madison's match has come!

---

PRESS CONFERENCE HIGHLIGHTS:
OWEN GONSALVES

Owen Gonsalves: "In my opinion, when it comes to the question of the best technical wrestler in the world, I firmly believe that Chris Madison belongs in that conversation. For 17 years, he has been the best of the best in that ring and proved that when he beat Molly Reid, a talent in her own right, for that championship. That's why he was on my list of dream matches. I'm on my road to proving that I am the best technical wrestler alive and I need to beat the absolute best to do that. Chris is one of the absolute best.

There's a round of applause for the respect shown as Owen nods and once again takes a sip of his water while awaiting the next question.

Ryan Masato: "Sorry, just a follow up on that, Owen...There's a saying that goes along the lines of 'if you step to the king, you best not miss', if Chris Madison is the proverbially king in your eyes, is there any worry that you'll crack under the pressure of facing such a high calibre opponent? Will you miss?"

Owen Gonsalves: "I will not miss. Plain and simple. This is too important of a match for me to miss again. I look forward to striking... hard and getting struck hard too, but I refuse to fall short. I am the man on fire, the High Flyah Messiah, the breaker of wrists, the Submission Alchemist, the Technical Spectacle, Australia's favourite son, I could go on and on...Owen fucking Gonsalves and Chris will learn that Owen Gonsalves cannot be destroyed. And on that note, cheers, Tokyo! See you tomorrow night!"

Black:

Owen grew up around a family who was nowhere near poverty but nowhere near millionaires. Owen was the second oldest of 4 brothers and lived with his father and now late, mother. Owen grew up idolising the likes of Donovan Kayl, Bronx Goldie, Ricky Valero, "100% Proof" Adam Edwards, "Mr. Wrestling" Steve Frei and Micah King. Wrestling was one of the Gonsalves' family's great traditions always sitting together and watching different televised wrestling shows so naturally the 4 brothers would wrestle in the backyard, living room, on the bed and even in the garage but only one would ever go as far as trying to make a living out of the extreme sport known as professional wrestling, that would be Owen.
He self trained himself at the age of 12 for about 2 months before his father found that his son was interested deeply in the sport and took it in his own hands to take his son to Detroit, Michigan for training. Owen left Melbourne, Australia at the age of 13 only weeks after his 13th birthday, with his father. Owen trained and wrestled in Detroit for nearly 6 years and in this time span Owen would've lost his mother to an illness, moved in with one of his trainers due to his father returning home and even breaking both his ankles until finally at the age of 18, Owen would return to Australia in hopes of starting a career in pro wrestling. And since then, he's been everywhere around the world. Now, he's looking to make an impact in Japan, but he's got quite the challenge ahead. 

CHRIS MADISON

"Ryan Masato, Puroresu Weekly... We obviously heard from Owen earlier. He made light of the mishap earlier in the week during his back and forth with Mr. Morrison. But Owen isn't the only one to take shots at you over social media, or in your case, lack there of. Any comments for those who've compared your nonexistent social media accounts to hiding," he inquired.

"Just because I don't take part of the twitter machine doesn't mean I don't know what's happening. Last time I checked, I was in the wrestling business, where wars are won inside the squared circle, not over twitter. Owen acts like he respects me but also cracked a joke about AMIRA and I looking alike. Mitsuo Shimada claims I hide behind my manager when he's the one hiding behind a keyboard. Friday night, A New Hope In Tokyo, everyone gets reminded that I'm not some ol'dog waiting to be put out of his misery. I am Chris Madison and I will brutalize anyone foolish enough to get inside that ring with me," Chris shouted before rising up to his feet. He grabbed his FGA Pride Championship belt and walked off stage with his manager scurrying behind him.

Black: 

Chris Madison grew up in the suburbs of Long Island, New York. Ever since he reached an eligible age, his father pushed him to compete in all forms of hand to hand combat. It became second nature and a trend that continued throughout high school and a few years of college before finally turning to Professional Wrestling at the age of 20. Madison made an early name for himself for his adept ability to take punishment. Often being showcased like a sideshow in all forms of "Extreme" wrestling matches before finally catching his first big break with OWF, a developmental territory of ICW. From there he bounced around, eventually landing in Pro Championship Wrestling. Once again showing great promise, Madison was a fixture amongst names like Brad Jackson, Spiral, Pat & Ian McCoy, and Big Daddy Kraven.
But for once in his life, Madison wasn't the star. As good as he was, he couldn't find room at the dinner table with Brad Jackson and Spiral gaining most of the spotlight. Madison once again bounced around before eventually leaving North America to take his talents to Japan where he perfected his craft. It took six years before Chris Madison returned and he picked up right where he left off, joining APW and becoming their Overdrive Champion with only a few months under his belt. Along with the APW Overdrive Championship, Madison earned the honors of becoming the first CXP Heavyweight Champion and the Second-to-None Champion, both titles he held as the promotions closed their doors. Coming off of a successful 220 title defense against arch nemesis, Brad Jackson, there was no doubt that the fire to compete still burned and Frontier Grappling Arts seems the likely destination. In a short stint he and partner Tommy Knox made a push for the FGA Tag Team Championships but came up unsuccessful. Madison took a short period of time off to let the bumps and bruises that come with the wrestling business heal up and found his way to 4CW, debuting at Ante Up in July of 2015. Over the past year he has remained undefeated, locking up with the best 4CW had to offer while earning their 4CW Pride Championship.
After a bitter contract dispute, Chris Madison decided it was best for him to walk away from 4CW, surrendering the Pride Championship, touring around different promotions until finally signing a contract for a second run in FGA. It was there he suffered his first defeat over a fourteen month undefeated stretch at the hands of Annie Dupree in the second round of the Wildcard Lottery Tournament. Chris refused to get discouraged by his failure and eventually worked his way into the FGA Pride Championship picture, capturing the belt at Only The Strong Survive in his second five-star championship match against the highly talented, Molly Reid. 

---

Main Event
Singles Match
Chris Madison vs. Owen Gonsalves

Mai Kado: The following contest is scheduled for a one fall and it is your main event of the evening!

The hard bass beat of Run The Jewels' "Blockbuster Night Part I" vibrates throughout the arena as the crowd immediately look down the isle way in anticipation of the man about to step out from behind the curtain.

'Bunches and bunches

Punches is thrown until you’re frontless

Oodles and oodles

Bang bullets at suckers' noodles

Last album? Voodoo!

Proved that we was fuckin' brutal

I’m talking crazy, half past the clock is cuckoo'

As soon as Killer Mike spits the first words of the song, "Indestructible" Owen Gonsalves steps through to a pop from the audience as he flips up the collar of his old mentor's ring jacket and begins to analyse the crowd. Once El-P's verse begins, The Submission Alchemist immediately begins to walk down towards the ring, mouthing the words to the song as he acknowledges a few of the folks in the front row.

'Look at these kiddies, Mike

I'm a rat-a-tat 'em for living

I deal in dirty work

Do the deed and then dash

Ditch 'em'

Having made his way to the bottom of the ramp, Owen starts shadow boxing to the camera at the bottom of the ramp before throwing an elbow in the camera's direction as El-P says 'ditch 'em'. Owen climbs on the apron and up on the second turnbuckle, looking out to the audience before hopping in the ring. The music slowly fades as Owen removes his ring jacket and begins to warm up, awaiting for the match to start.

Black: The main event, is here. "Indestructible" Owen Gonsalves versus "Mayhem" Chris Madison. Ladies and Gentlemen, Dirge and Ashley, what a night of wrestling this has been, and this one, sure as hell is going to cap off a great return show. We've got two of the best technicians in the world, wrestling purists, meeting inside the four sided ring for the very first time here in Tokyo, Japan. 

Johnson: Everyone in the industry knows about these two guys. They're two of the hardest working guys in the industry. But Chris Madison, has got the bigger name, the more success, the experience and is still doing it till this day. He left Four Corners Wrestling last year and elevated the status of the Pride championship. 2017, and he's already tearing it up over in Frontier Grappling Arts, becoming the pride champion over there. 

Hamilton: He's got experience, sure. But Owen Gonsalves has got the youth, the physicality, the the technical prowess and the in ring fluidity, to really make it big out here in Japan. Sure, Madison maybe doing it big elsewhere, but now - he's back in Japan, and it's a different ball game. It's a different scene, with a different set of crowd, a more cultured crowd. And we all know, it gets tough when you're wrestling here in Japan, that's what is expected from you, toughness beyond what's expected from you elsewhere. 

The arena's lights dim to black as the opening guitar riffs to "War Machine" by KISS begin to screech over the P.A. system. The video screen lights up with visual static noise. Suddenly in the center of the screen a black handprint begins pulsating to the beat of the drum that has began to play. A spotlight shines on the entrance ramp and we see Chris Madison standing with his head bowed under a black towel, wearing an official FGA licensed t-shirt that says, "Always Ready For War," across the chest. He nods his head to the music, tapping four of his fingers against the main plate of the FGA Pride Championship. As the chorus breaks he rips the towel from his head and tosses it into the live audience, starting his way down the ramp toward, the ring.

Better watch out 'cause I'm a war machine

Better watch out 'cause I'm a war machine

Mai Kado: Coming to the ring from Long Island, New York, weighing in at two hundred twenty pounds and standing six feet tall, the FRONTIER GRAPPLING ARTS PRIDE CHAMPION, "Mayhem" CHRIS MAAADDIISSOONN!!!

Madison makes it to the base of the steps and places one foot down before scoping out the fans directly behind him by peering over his shoulder. He smirks as the live audience sings along to the entrance music and then marches up the steps and climbs through the ropes. He immediately leaps up onto the middle rope and faces out towards the crowd. He brings his fists up to his face and punches his jaw with each hand before shooting his arms out horizontally with his hands wide open, welcoming whatever challenge is coming his way. Madison hops backwards, bouncing off of his feet and turns towards the center of the ring while unsnapping the Pride Championship. Madison hands the FGA Pride Championship over to the official while keeping his eyes locked on Owen Gonsalves, never losing focus.

MAD - I - SON!, MAD - I - SON!, MAD - I - SON!

MAD - I - SON!, MAD - I - SON!, MAD - I - SON!

MAD - I - SON!, MAD - I - SON!, MAD - I - SON!

Black: The NJFC crowd obviously familiar with Chris Madison, who had a spell here last year, returning this year looking to make more regular appearances and his first test, is Owen Gonsalves here tonight. Both of these men will be competing in the Pride of Puroresu Crown in June, with the hopes of becoming the heavyweight champion. But tonight, no championships involved. Just a good old fashioned fight!

DING DING DING!

The two competitors approach the center of the ring and slap hands as a sign of respect, already the fans are applauding, the mutual respect between the two winning the crowd over and promising them, a tough, however respectable fight between two of the worlds best. They circle the ring before meeting once again in the center, looking to connect with a knuckle hold however Chris is quick in the offense, grabbing Owen and pushing him back into the corner, where Owen is against the ropes forcing the referee to intervene. Madison backs away, gradually, hesitating with a strike, enough to force Owen to throw his defenses up, but Madison backs away, leaving Owen in the corner, watching him. The two men circle the ring once more, looking to engage in another knuckle lock and once again, Chris is bringing it to Owen, forcing him back up against the ropes, however Owen manages to quickly reverse it so that he has Madison against the ropes, and they continue to alternate in positions, before reaching a padded corner with Owen pushing back against Madison and the referee intervening. Owen backs away, holding his hands up but has to react quickly as Madison throws a boot toward him, he catches it, dropping it down quickly and delivering an uppercut on the FGA Pride Champion. He then connects with another that stuns Madison, who looks for a knife edge chop as a return but Owen grabs his forearm, wrenching it around before connecting with another uppercut. A series of uppercuts connect. Madison looks for a right hand, but Owen manages to block it, and delivers another uppercut. Madison stumbles back into the corner and Owen circles the ring whilst Madison shakes his head, attempting to recuperate. Gonsalves runs towards him, with Madison lifting him up and over onto the apron before taking off to the ropes. Bouncing back but Gonsalves has dropped to the outside of the ring, turning his back toward Madison and walking away, Madison doesn't stop, instead he slides out of the ring and runs towards Gonsalves who's now turned around, counters with an uppercut on Madison.

Black: And Madison has fallen down out here on the outside after another uppercut from Owen Gonsalves!

Hamilton: Gonsalves is one tough guy, and he can dish out as much as he can take.

Receiving applause, Gonsalves stands on the outside looking at the crowd on his left, nodding his head before turning his attention back on the recovering Chris Madison. He greets him with another uppercut, that sends him backwards, and then another uppcutter whilst running and Madison falls back onto the guardrail. He looks for another but Madison blocks, and with his forearm, strikes him across the face. Gonsalves staggers backwards and holds onto the guardrail, shaking his head after that devastating blow from Madison. Sliding back into the ring, Madison breaks the count before sliding back out and refocusing on Gonsalves, grabbing him by the back of the head and rolling him back into the ring. Madison follows and the two men are back up on their feet, and begin to circle the ring once more.

Approaching the middle, Owen has a lower stance than Chris nevertheless the two engage in a knuckle lock, or at least halfheartedly engage, with Owen looking to take Madison down with a double leg take down but Madison isn't having any of it, getting a hold of the head of Owen and pushing him away at every attempt. The two then swap positions with Madison now looking to take Owen down with a double leg take down but Owen is quick, moving his legs quickly enough away from Madison and the two are now level, stretching their arms out, with their left hands engaging but Owen quickly transitions in a face frontlock, before changing up to get behind him, with the two now on the mat, Madison quickly transitions so that he's now behind Owen. He's on top of him, his arms wrapped around his waist but Owen, manages to wiggle his way out, grabbing onto the arm of Madison to do so, and switching the advantage game, locking Madison in a headlock whilst his back is pressed against the canvas, trying to wrap his legs around him but Madison swivels his body around, breaking the hold and can for the pin but Owen is quick to shuffle backwards, lifting his legs up as a defense and the two come to a halt, looking at one another.

Black: Mat based work from both of these men trying to get the upperhand on one another, Madison using his experience whilst Owen uses his quickness to get out of their tricky situations. I said that this would be one for the purists, and already, it's displaying just that.

Applause ensues and the two men rise to their feet and circle the ring, coming together with a collar to elbow tie up in the center of the ring, Madison bests Owen and grabs his arm, wrenching it around and forcing Owen down onto one knee. Owen then rolls forwards, gets up, reverses the hold entirely after finding a gap to exploit and go into before twisting the arm of Madison round. He then forces him down to the canvas and applies more pressure to the forearm of Madison, who's hand and fingers is now being pulled back by Owen. Madison rises to a knee and Owen is trying the best he can to keep him at bay, twisting his forearm but then Madison rolls forwards, from the grounded position he grabs the leg of Owen and sweeps him off of his feet, before placing his body against the leg of Owen and pulling back on his foot, with Owen grimacing in pain. Owen then wraps his free leg round Madison and manages to position him into a seated position, still behind him, he then transitions into a cross armbar, but Madison uses his body strength to get out of it, and in turn, gets a pin attempt.

1
.

.

.

Owen leans forwards and goes back into the cross armbar attempt, not managing to lock it in as Madison has his hands hooked, disabling any attempt from Owen. Madison then gets back up onto one knee, with Owen still looking to get that hold intact, Madison then breaks away from him and is now on his feet, with Owen tactically rolling over to the ropes for the break before Madison can counter him.

Rising to his feet, Owen looks at Madison who's looking back at him and the two do another circuit of the ring, approaching the center and looking for another knuckle lock, with their lefts hands connecting before Owen lunges forward and tries to best him early but Madison, isn't budging. They both raise their right hands now, and engage with a right knuckle lock, and they jockey in position, each having one leg wrapped around the other, with Madison forcing Owen down to the canvas, but before the referee can get down for a pin attempt, Owen then manages to bridge himself so that he's shoulder aren't touching the canvas. Madison continue to force him down, Owen uses the strength that he has to get back up onto his feet, but then abruptly rolls backwards, gets up and now has Madison down on his knees in this game of mercy.

Black: Owen Gonsalves managing to get himself out with that bridge and now has Madison on the back foot.

Johnson: These two testing out each other's strength in the ring but neither man is consistently coming out on top, it's a back and forth expedition, which is refreshing to see.

"Indestructible" Gonsalves continues to apply pressure to keep Madison down on his knees. Madison slowly gets up and now it's an even playing field, with Madison looking to turn Gonsalves around but yet again, Gonsalves uses the strength that he does have to force Madison down to his knees, yelling in the process. Madison gets back up onto his feet, and this time, with the knuckle hold still in tact - manages to turn Gonsalves around as well as himself, thus breaking the hold, now facing each other, Gonsalves kicks Madison in the mid section, follows this with an uppercut, backing away and running toward "Mayhem" Chris Madison, who replies with a shoulder barge that has Gonsalves slamming onto the canvas. Gonsalves holds onto the back of his head as he sits up and Madison runs at him, sending his boot into his back to add insult to injury. Madison then picks Gonsalves up and pressing him back against the corner, sending knee's into the mid section on Gonsalves, repeated knee's, that are hard and relentless as they connect.

He then lets up, backing away an inch, and slapping Gonsalves across the chest. Gonsalves falls a little but Madison straightens him back up, returning to the knee's to the mid section job, a punishing amount in addition to hard strikes. Madison then brings Gonsalves out of the corner, flips him into a seated position and proceeds with a chin lock submission. Owen stretches his arm out as he struggles, with the referee asking whether he wants to quit, but he refuses. Owen kicks his legs out and isn't too far from the ropes, continuing to kick them out, he manages to hook his leg around the rope for a rope break and the referee begins to count on Madison, who lets up.

Gradually, Owen rises to his feet but that's after a few Madison stomps to the body, who helps him up and Irish whips him to the ropes. Owen bounces back and Madison is bent over looking to send Owen up and over, Owen comes to a half, falls onto one knee and uppercuts Madison. Madison is now straighten and up, with Owen now taking off to the ropes, bouncing back but Madison connects with a bicycle knee. Owen stumbles, managing to stay on his feet. Madison then takes off to the ropes, bounces back and this time it's Owen who connects with a bicycle knee that stuns Madison as he turns, Owen then getting in behind him and performing a bridging Dragon Suplex.

1
.

.

.

2

.

.

Black: Just the two! Gonsalves almost snuck away with a victory early on.

Hamilton: Caught me off guard, Owen Gonsalves matching Chris Madison here tonight.

Once again, there's a round of applause that ensues as Gonsalves gets back up onto his feet, and he nods his head in acknowledgment, waving to the audience as Chris makes it up to his feet.

Johnson: Should he really be allowing time for Chris Madison to recover? I mean, if that was me, I'd be going all for it right now, no time for stoppages.

Hamilton: That is one of his biggest distractions, the crowd, he loves them and they love him, but it's a dangerous love because it can distract you from the task in hand.

Nodding at one another, the two men circle the ring once more and engage in a collar to elbow tie up in the center. Muay Thai clinch from Chris Madison, who backs Gonsalves up against the ropes and returns to the repeated knee's into the mid section of Gonsalves, who's taking the hits better than he did last. Madison then Irish whips him to the ropes, Gonsalves reaches the ropes but fakes the come back, Madison then runs at him with Gonsalves latching onto the ropes and bringing it down so that Madison is sent flying to the outside. Madison lands on his feet however and Gonsalves has taken off to the ropes, bouncing off of them and running toward Madison who's on the outside, Gonsalves pokes his head through the ropes with the intention of a suicide dive, but just in time Madison leaps up onto the apron and smashes he knee against the head of Gonsalves. Gonsalves turns around and holds onto his head as Madison enters the ring and gets in behind Gonsalves, wrapping his arms around his waist, he runs him into the padded corner, before rolling himself Gonsalves backwards, then delivering a German suplex on him, releasing him in the process! Gonsalves rolls to the outside and is on the floor holding onto his head as Madison rises to his feet inside the ring, looking at the audience, before looking back at Gonsalves.

Black: I think Chris Madison's about to go airborne!

Johnson: He can do that?

Rushing to the ropes, he bounces off of them before running toward Gonsalves who's on the outside, he then twists his body around, performing a moonsault over the top rope and to the outside, landing on top of Gonsalves!

REPLAY BOARD

Hamilton: Well apparently, Chris Madison can do anything!

Rising to his feet, Madison roars to the audience, who applaud him as he walks around the outside, wiping the sweat that's beginning to stream down his face. He then walks over to Gonsalves, picking him up and rolling him back into the ring. Gonsalves rolls over to the corner and uses the ropes by it to help himself up. Madison walks towards him, reaching him, and delivers a shoot kick to the leg of Gonsalves who staggers, holding onto his leg as Madison now delivers a kick to the opposite leg, with the same tenacity. Madison then brings him out of the corner and lifts him up into a vertical suplex position, but Gonsalves is quick to use his knee's to fight his way out of it.

Landing on his feet, he then connects with an open palm strike on Madison, who turns his head away, keeping it away as he fuels his anger. He turns to Gonsalves, connecting with a vicious forearm that sends Gonsalves stumbling back into the ropes. Madison then runs at him but Gonsalves lifts his knee and sends it into the gut of Madison, grabbing him by his arm, wrenching it around, before flipping him into a seated position, going over to his front and looking for a swift kick to the chest, Madison avoids by planting his back against the canvas, Gonsalves then tries to nail him with an elbow drop, Madison avoids by rolling out of the way just in time.

The two are now both on their feet, with Madison hitting Gonsalves with another punishing forearm, Gonsalves coming off of the ropes and looking for a lariat but Madison ducks under the attempt, wrapping his arms around the waist of Gonsalves, who holds his own and avoids being picked up. He then stomps on the foot of Madison, swivels round and locks him in a hammerlock, transitioning into a side headlock, which is the transitioned further into a side headlock slam onto the canvas, keeping the hold intact in the process. Madison replies with a body scissors counter, Gonsalves kicks out of it and the two are back up on their feet. Madison runs at Gonsalves and takes him down with a Lou Thesz press, looking to connect with a series of elbows but the arms of Gonsalves are up, disabling him from harming him. Madison huffs in frustration and brings Gonsalves back up onto his feet, in a side headlock position, he tightens the hold, squeezing the head of Gonsalves who backs Madison up against the ropes, and sends him off to the opposite ropes. Madison bounces back and leaps of Gonsalves who hit the canvas in an attempt to trip him up, Madison bounces back and Gonsalves looks to leap frog over him, Madison catches him on his shoulders but Gonsalves slips down his back, turns him around, slaps him in the face, ducks underneath a lariat attempt from Madison, drives his knee against the hamstring of Madison who falls ever so slightly before taking off to the ropes looking to connect with a kick. Madison grabs his foot, spins him around and locks him into a sleeper hold! Gonsalves, forces Madison backwards into the ropes and eventually, Madison releases, Gonsalves takes a step forward, elbowing Madison in the side of the head before taking off to the ropes. Madison stalks him, Gonsalves hits the ropes and is met with a knee to the mid section and Madison brings him back to the center of the ring. He then lifts him up and performs a brain buster!

Black: Damn! Did you hear that impact?

Gonsalves is holding onto his head, rolling around the ring.

Black: The ain't right!

Hamilton: Gonsalves is going to be feeling the impact of that brainbuster in the morning.

Johnson: You're kidding right? More like feeling that impact for the rest of his career!

On the outside, Gonsalves is recuperating, walking around the outside of the ring, trying to slap himself back into focus whilst Madison waits in the ring, the referee beginning a count down. Madison rolls to the outside, having had enough and goes after Gonsalves, who rolls back into the ring, with Madison following after. Gonsalves is now stomping on Madison, stomp after stomp, connecting harder and harder each time. He then positions the hand of Madison so that it's under his body, with his elbow pointing upwards, Gonsalves stomps on it and Madison winces in pain, holding onto his right elbow!

Hamilton: What a harsh, but effective move!

Johnson: It's gameplan baby, all Gonsalves has to do is stick to the gameplan now.

"Indestructible", Owen Gonsalves connects with another stomp to the elbow of Madison, and another, and another, before picking him back up and Irish whipping him to the corner. Gonsalves then lifts Madison up onto the top rope and joins him on the second!

Black: Big impact move inbound from Owen Gonsalves!

Positioning himself, Gonsalves prepares for a superplex off of the top rope but Chris Madison begins his fight back, unloading with a couple of shots to the mid section, before headbutting Gonsalves, knocking him off of the second rope.

Black: Madison, with the headbutt that sends Gonsalves off of the second rope!

Madison then positions himself on the top rope as Gonsalves turns around.

Leaping off of the top rope, Madison is flying toward Gonsalves!

Black: UPPPERCCUTTTTT BY OWEN GONSALVES!

Madison is met with an uppercut as Gonsalves leaps up into the air, and greets him with one almighty uppercut, sending Madison down onto the canvas instantly.

Hamilton: Wow, what a hit!

Gonsalves then falls onto the body of Chris Madison!

1
.

.

.

2
.

.

NOOOOOOOO!

Sitting up, Gonsalves wipes the sweat off of his face and remains calm and composed, the audience applauding him as he slowly rises up onto his feet.

Black: Even the best of uppercuts couldn't keep Madison down! This match continues!

Now, Madison is on one knee and Gonsalves looks at him, before taking off to the ropes, he handsprings just in front of them and allows his back to hit the ropes, landing and throwing himself backwards, he catches Madison with a cutter.

Black: Genesis Supernova by Owen Gonsalves!

He hooks his legs.

1
.

.

.

2
.

.

NOOOOOO!

Burying his head in his hands, Gonsalves is on his knees and is shaking his head, moving his hands away from his face and placing them on his fist as he watches Madison, get up via the corner.

Johnson: Time after time, just when you think Owen's about to win it, Madison denies!

Hamilton: He's a walking living legend, we should expect nothing less.

Madison breathes heavily as he leans against the corner. Gonsalves runs at him and connects with an uppercut in the corner. Bringing him to the center, he grabs his hand and bends his fingers backwards, forcing Madison to fall onto his knee's and wince in pain, holding back the tears. Gonsalves the brings him back up, looking for a wrist lock short arm lariat but Madison ducks underneath the lariat attempt, running to the ropes, bouncing off of them and connecting with a yakuza kick on Gonsalves.

Black: YAKUZA KICK! And both of these men are down, and look like they're out!

Both men lay on their backs in the middle of the ring, with the audience applauding both men for their efforts.

Black: Wait, is that.. - who I think it is?

The camera cuts to the entrance ramp, and standing on the top of the stage if NJFC's newest signing, Mitsuo Shimada, who stands tall looking into the ring with a look of curiosity on his face.

Hamilton: Misuo Shimada? Hasn't he been involved in a back and forth confrontation on twitter with Chris Madison's manager, mister Morrison?

Johnson: Yeah he has, he's also the king of Japan.

Hamilton: Where did you hear that?

Johnson: I'm pretty sure Cass Baumer reported it, and everyone knows what she says, is legit!

Shimada slowly makes his way down the entrance ramp, to the dismay of the audience who begin to jeer him as he walks down but he doesn't acknowledge them. Instead, he has his eyes locked in the ring, more specifically, Chris Madison who's beginning to realize what's happening as he latches onto the ropes and looks at Shimada, whilst trying to get himself up.

Black: Mitsuo Shimada claimed that Chris Madison was a coward. Someone, who hides behind his manager Frankie Morrison. A big claim from Shimada, who's obviously picking a fight with Madison, and turning up tonight, confirms that.

Leaning over the ropes, Madison looks at Shimada who is now by the edge of the ring, his face stern and hard but this transitions into an arrogant smirk, with Shimada tying his hands behind his back, licking his lips, and raising an eyebrow up at Madison.

Black: MADISON BETTER WATCH OUT!

From behind, Gonsalves looks for the roll up!

1

.

.

.

2
.

.

Black: HE ALMOST HAD HIM! SHIMADA BEING A DISTRACTION!

Both men rise to their feet and Madison look's at Gonsalves, questioningly, shaking his head before asking, "have you got anything to do with this!", convinced that Gonsalves is in cahoots with Shimada. Gonsalves shakes his head, and laughs "you're kidding, but I had to try!", referencing the cheeky pin attempt, and shrugging his shoulders.

"Mayhem" Chris Madison explodes into a rage uncontrollable, letting himself at Gonsalves with a series of blows connecting everywhere as he backs Gonsalves into the corner. The referee intervenes and tells Madison to cool off, who backs away and turns at Shimada, his eyes flaring up, and Shimada remaining cool and calm himself.

Black: Chris Madison doesn't look like a happy bunny out here tonight, Mitsuo Shimada's being here, may have just effected him mentally.

Turning back around to concentrate on Gonsalves, Madison is met with an uppercut, followed by a kick to the thigh, then a backfist, then another uppercut. Gonsalves has him stumbling around, he then lifts him up and plants him with the Michinoku Driver, which rocks the arena as Madison lands on the canvas.

1
.

.


.

2

.

.

.

3 ? NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!

Black: WOW! WHAT'S IT GOING TO TAKE TO PUT CHRIS MADISON DOWN?!

Hamilton: It's going to take something deeper, Gonsalves has to dig deeper!

Immediately, Owen gets to his feet and brings Madison up with him, wrist lock, tries to transition into a lariat but Madison kicks Owen away! Owen staggers, remains on his feet, kicks Madison back who staggers, remains on his feet, looks for a lariat, Owen slides underneath his arm, swipes Madison off of his feet, grabs onto his leg, but Madison kicks him away. Back up on their feet, they're running at each other and they connect with a double headbutt, with Gonsalves coming off worse for wear!

Black: OUCH! They just headbutted each other! Oh, that was sickening! But looks like Madison is OK, Gonsalves looks a little groggy!

Madison grabs Owen with a rear waist lock while trapping one of Owen's arms. Madison pulls on his arm by the wrist and forces him to spin around. Owen does a full 360 spin, Madison spins himself and hits a rolling elbow strike to the back of Owen's head!

Black: COMATOSED!

Madison then falls on top of Owen and hooks one leg!

1

.

.

.

2
.

.

.

. NOOOOOOOOOO!

REPLAY BOARD

There's an energy surging through the arena and as Madison rises to his feet, he feels it, embraces it, looks out at Mitsuo Shimada, and Shimada can see that energy in the eyes of Chris Madison, who's become possessed, a second wind of life surging through him. 

Black: This is, unbelievable! 

Picking Gonsalves up by his hair, Madison has had it. He signals for the end and looks directly at Shimada as he lifts Gonsalves up onto his shoulders, an electric chair position. He then throws him up into the air, catches him and secures a rear waist lock as he slams him down onto the canvas into a bridge German suplex!

Black: ENNNDDD GAMMMEEEEE!

1
.

.

.


2

.


.


.


3

DING DING DING!

Mai Kado: Ladies and Gentlemen.. the winner of your main event match... CHRISS MADDISSSON!!!

Black: What a match! What a main event! Chris Madison and Owen Gonsalves have just set a freakin' standard for the rest of the year!

Hamilton: They set a bar indeed.. and I don't know Robbie, I know it's pretty early, but isn't that already a contender for match of the year?

Black: It has to be! 

Johnson: It had everything we wanted, and more.

Madison rises to his feet with the referee holding his arm up in the air.

Black: Oh no. 

All of a sudden, Madison is attacked from behind by Mitsuo Shimada, who clubs him round the back. He continues to do so, relentless, to the dismay of the audience who jeer him as he continues this onslaught on the victor. 

Black: Come on now!

Owen Gonsalves is up and turns Shimada around, nailing him with a forearm strike to the face! The audience cheer for Gonsalves who then rushes to the ropes, but as he comes back, he's hoisted up into the air, and planted down to the canvas with a pop up powerbomb!
 
Hamilton: And Owen Gonsalves trying to come to the defense of Chris Madison, get's nailed with a pop up powerbomb!

Boo's echo through the arena as Shimada now turns his attention on Madison. Picking him up and Irish whips him to the ropes, he comes back, pops him up and nails him with a powerbomb. 

Johnson: I'm sorry guys.. but I'm a Shimada fan, he knows what he wants and he's going out and getting it. 

Black: Really? After such a spectacular night, this is how we're going to end?

Shimada stands over Chris Madison, a smile on his face whilst the cameras fade to black. 

Winner: Chris Madison (35:53)