NJFC presents: Global Takeover, Night Two

[James Peterson]

NEW JAPAN
FIGHTING CHAMPIONSHIP
PRESENTS:

...

GLOBAL TAKEOVER
Brought to you by Under Armour, Sony and Dr Pepper

Tuesday 16th May, Wednesday 17th May, Thursday 18th May
(Osaka-jō Hall, Osaka, Japan)

English Commentators: Robbie Black, Ashley Hamilton, and Dirge Johnson

Japanese Commentators: Korato Shiozaki, Takao Sato, Nakano Gozen
Ring Announcers: Mai Kado, Joey Miles. 
Backstage Interviewers: Racehel Kenshin, Shinsuke Karuba, Elliot Little. 
Referees: Takeda Hanzo, Oliver Reid and Shinobu Ichii

The Global Championship was the first title to be crowned back in 2016 and this year, and it's going to be the same this year. Since the retirement of Kurt Newman, the championship has been vacant but as of Global Takeover, a new champion will be crowned. What is expected if you are to be heralded the new champ? Well, first and foremost you are expected to make regular title defenses here in New Japan Fighting Championship. However, this is a title that can be contested for outside of our walls, provided that the eventual winner, signs a contract with NJFC. Meaning, if you were to defend this title at your home federation but you end up dropping the title, the person you dropped it too is expected to sign a contract or else it'll pretty much be relinquished. It's an openweight division, you can be of any size, or gender to compete for this prestigious belt that has a lot of history behind it stemming back to it's inaugural champion, Devin Hearst.





Wednesday 17th May, 2017

ROUND ONE

1. Craig Anderson vs. Takashi Shinobu
2. Bianca Reed vs. Devin Hearst
3. Ace King vs. Otaki
4. Anastasia Hayden vs. Toshikazu

ROUND TWO
A. Winner of match 1 vs. Winner of match 2
B. Winner of match 3 vs. Winner of match 4

SEMI FINALS
Winner of match A vs. Winner of match B

[James Peterson]

The Osaka-jō Hall is packed with it's full capacity number of seats of 16,000 fans and the camera pans across the arena, displaying the numerous signs and banners that the audience members are swaying from side to side as the camera passes them. Streamers from each corner of the ring fly majestically in the air as applause rings through the arena to mark this special occasion, night one of New Japan Fighting Championship's Global Takeover.

Robbie Black: Ladies and Gentlemen, welcome to Global Takeover live from OSAKA exclusive to AxxessNet! Its Day 2, and wow, can we just take a moment to appreciate everything that went down last night?

The scene cuts to lead commentator Robbie Black who smiles at the camera, hands clasped together and ready for the night ahead.

Robbie Black: It was emotional, it was heartfelt, it was brutal, it was grueling, it was wrestling at it's finest. Jessica Nitoh and Bryan Williams made it into the semi finals and had a contender for match of the night. Bryan Williams was able to emerge the victor and now finds himself in the Global Takeover championship final tomorrow night.

Dirge Johnson: We can't even forget about the matches that came before that Robbie. James Edwards put a tremendous effort but just came up short, Hiroyoshi Suzuki and Owen Gonsalves tore the house down in my opinion, the match of the night! 

Ashley Hamilton: It was a night I'll never forget personally and really did show why NJFC is one of the hottest brands in professional wrestling. Day two, and we've got another boat of talent for you on display. I just can't wait to see who is going to be facing Bryan Williams in a days time! 

[James Peterson]

CRAIG ANDERSON

Craig: "Honestly, it doesn't faze me in the slightest. I've never been the biggest star, and I don't expect to be given a hero's welcome whenever I enter a new country. But I'm young, I'm learning more and more with each passing match. Already, I've worked with some tremendous wrestlers. I may be unknown right know, but trust me. By the end of this tournament, the New Japan audience will know EXACTLY who I am."

Craig's noticeable confidence fills the room, almost as though it was contagious. Before he could select another hand, a reporter spoke.

"Your first opponent is Takashi Shinobu, a man who is very popular in Japan. How much of a home field advantage do you think he will have?"

Craig: "Obviously it's going to play a factor, as is his considerably greater experience. But here's the thing. Both of us are second-generation wrestlers. We have wrestling in our blood. Maybe Takashi does have the advantage going into this, but I'm more than okay with playing the role of the underdog. I'm at my best when nothing is expected of me, and I think it's fair to say that I won't be the odds-on favourite to win this entire thing. But neither were Leicester City, and they achieved the impossible. Stranger things have happened, so you'd be a fool to write me off."

Craig claps his hands together, before pointing to a man on the back row. However, upon realising who it is, he quickly tries to point elsewhere.

Braeden Corbett: "HELLO!"

Braeden stands up with a huge grin on his face, clearly ready to ask a question. He clears his throat before he speaks, not wanting to stutter during his big moment.

Craig: "Oh, would you look at that. I'm afraid that's all the time I've got, folks. But I look forward to seeing you all again on the seventeenth, at Global Takeover."

TAKASHI SHINOBU

Takashi Shinobu: Hello everyone! It's great to be here, back here, in New Japan Fighting Championship. And as you can see by those who have already addressed you, we've come back as a collective - bigger, and stronger and it's great to be apart of something so global now. And it really resonates on the card that we have for Global Takeover. It's a global expedition, global stars coming from all over the world to wrestle in the number one wrestling promotion in the world right now. 

An arm shot up after Shinobu paused. 

Shelley Silver: Takashi, Shelley Silver on behalf of the promotion... you're familiar with the way things are around here, with the fans and with the culture and style of it all, more familiar than others. Do you think you'll be able to use that familiarity as an advantage? 

That hadn't even ran through the mind of Takashi initially but it was something that was very true. He'd spent his whole career in Japan, become accustomed to the style and the culture, and of course, the fans. 

Takashi Shinobu: It's something that helps, whether it's an advantage, we'll see. Everyone will be bringing their own styles, their own traditions, so it's going to be a very varied event, as we have people from all over the world. I don't think it'll be an advantage being familiar, but then again, people may cope differently in another country, they may feel more pressured or are jet-lagged or something like that. So it's really how the individuals cope with it all, whether they're able to adapt to the fast tempo that I personally, deliver. Whether they'll be able to keep up. 

But I know my opponent in the first round mister Craig Anderson, is someone who can keep up. Someone who's abilities are known on a worldwide scale, someone who's been here, there and everywhere. I respect him because of that, respect his accomplishments and I believe he'll be able to match my level of intensity. I've watched his tapes, I know what his strengths and weaknesses are. That's all I have to say on the whole matter. 

Craig Anderson versus Takashi Shinobu

J HEAVYWEIGHT  CLASS  J HEAVYWEIGHT

6'0"  HEIGHT  5'5"

170LBS  WEIGHT  165LBS

WORCESTER, UK  HOMETOWN  TAGAJO, MIYAGI

Starting off the night would be a match between two junior heavyweights. Craig Anderson, prominently known for his time in WEW as well as his start when involved within the Bebo Wrestling circuit, which garnered him much fame within the states but he hadn't even murmured a whisper in Japan. He was a relative unknown but his goal was to eradicate that preconceived notion. Shinobu on the otherhand is an NJFC original, primarily involved in the FIGHTING Junior Heavyweight division, when an opportunity came up to fight for the openweight Global title, Takashi gracefully accepted, finding himself in a tournament with the world's most elite.

Anderson would come out to a welcoming reception, and he embraced the fans as he came down to the ring, high-fives all round before he entered the ring and positioned himself in his designated corner, crouching down and awaiting Takashi. Coming out to a thunderous pop, Takashi would also embrace the fans with high-fives on his way down, hopping onto the apron and sling shot into the ring. The two men would glare at each other whilst the referee reminded both men of the rules of the match, and what exactly was at stake. They then shook hands as a mark of respect before backing away to their corners, the bell ringing through the arena and the two men completing a circuit of the ring.

Approaching the center, the two would engage in a collar to elbow with Takashi taking advantage, wrist lock to bring his opponent to his knee. Anderson would roll forward, placing himself in a bridge position before turning around and getting back up to his feet, wrist lock to Takashi, arm drag transitioned into an arm bar. Takashi would be quick to kip up, turning around and reversing the hold. Anderson would have to step on the foot of Takashi, drop low, grabbing a single leg before driving his knee into the hamstring. Takashi would kick out with his free leg, forcing Anderson back into the ropes, he'd come off them and leap over Takashi who hit the canvas on his front. Anderson would come off of the opposite ropes and this time Takashi attempted a hurricanrana but Anderson would cartwheel onto his feet. Takashi charged, Anderson allowed him to and helped him on his way to the ropes, Takashi bounced off of them and Anderson dropped him with a hard shoulder. He took off to the ropes, Takashi kipped up to his feet and kicked him in the mid section.

Grabbing him by his head, he led him over to the corner, throwing him into it. Takashi would then connect with a backhand chop, following this with a forearm and he lifted him up onto the top rope. Anderson would fight him off, and Takashi would stagger away holding onto his ribs, turning around with Anderson looking for a lariat, Takashi ducked and took off to the ropes, handspring onto them, launching himself backward but Anderson would roll out of the way. They'd race to their feet, Anderson would an arm drag, they'd get back up again and this time Takashi with an arm drag. Once more they rose with Anderson grabbing Takashi by both legs, double leg take down, before bridging into a pin but barely a one. They'd rise, with Anderson swinging for a lariat, Takashi ducked, rollup from behind but barely a one. They'd rise, but not move, instead they posed in low warrior stances, took the applause of the fans. 

A test of strength was next and they approach the center of the ring for a knuckle lock, Anderson using his weight advantage to power Takashi into the corner. He'd let go of him, faking the strike with Takashi delivering a quick open palm strike to the head. Anderson turning away, stunned by the quickness and the impact. He'd turn back to Takashi and deliver a heel kick to the mid section, forcing Takashi to drop to his knee's. Anderson would take off to the ropes, bounced back and flipped over the bent over Takashi, managing to perform a one arm swinging neckbreaker following this. Anderson would then be met with a echo of applause as he rose to his feet, already making quite the impression on the Japanese fans, he'd hoist himself up onto the second rope and pose, nodding his head in approval of the fans reaction. He jumped down from the second rope and found that Takashi was by the opposite corner, recovering. Sprinting toward him, Takashi would lift him up and over to the apron before taking a few steps back. He would then springboard his way onto the ropes on the otherside of Anderson, turning his body around and landing a drop kick to knock him to the outside. He'd then get on the apron, and perform a shooting star press on Anderson, crashing onto him and receiving applause as he rose to his feet. Bringing Anderson up, he managed to lift him up in a back body suplex position, and performed the move onto the apron. Anderson would arch his back in pain and Takashi would slide in and out of the ring to break the count before bringing Anderson back in. Takashi was up on the top rope, preparing himself for the fall, 450 splash. Anderson kipped up to his feet and sprung to the second rope, looking for a belly to belly suplex! Takashi would flip, land on his feet and act as if nothing had just happened, to the surprise of Anderson he rose to his feet. Anderson ran toward but Takashi would land a spinning scoop slam. Picking him back up, he'd then perform a flip DDT! The one, the two but not quite the three. 

Burying his head in his hands Takashi would rise to his feet and wait for Anderson to rise to his too, preparing himself for his finishing move. Anderson was up, countered Takashi with a superkick also known as “Kicks Out For Harambe”! The kick made a clapping noise, and Anderson raced up to the top rope. Preparing himself, he leaped off in a corkscrew fashion, hitting the “Viennese Whirl” essentially a corkscrew shooting star press, hooking the legs of Takashi afterward and getting the win!

Winner: Craig Anderson (10:12)

Match Rating: ***

[James Peterson]

BIANCA REED

“So the first question I’ve been asked is how I feel about taking on Devin Hearst in the first round of this tournament. He was the inaugural Global Champion here in NJFC, and I can only imagine what winning this title back means to him…

Unfortunately, he’s going to have to wait a little longer to find out, because he’s not the only one in this match hungry for a win. I have a lot to prove to myself and to everyone watching this tournament, and I don’t intend to be cannon fodder for Devin Hearst’s march toward glory. Because once my name got announced, this tournament became about one thing and one thing only - me and my first championship win. Devin Hearst is a man to be . respected, sure, but not one to be feared. Luckily, as someone training at the RISE gym in Detroit, I’ve not only had access to some of the greatest names in the business, but one of those names happens to have been a former stablemate of Devin’s. So you can bet that I’ve been working with her particularly these last few weeks, learning all I can about Devin’s in-ring work and how a girl half his size can possibly pull off a win here.”

Seeming satisfied with her answer, Bianca scrolls through the email, tapping her chin with a manicured finger as she searches for her next question.

“Aha, here we go! Next up, I’ve been asked about whether or not I’d come back to Japan to defend my title, should I happen to win it. And the answer there is yes, of course. My family and I may be gaijin, but several of them have trained and worked here. And one, my cousin Trevor, was on his way to greatness before some crazy chick brained him with a lead pipe. So yeah, I want to come back here to defend my title. I want to work here, and train here, and gain the experience that so many other wrestlers have. I’ve traveled all over the world, but Japan is basically a mecca for the wrestling business and I don’t think I’ll feel accomplished as a wrestler until I’ve really had a chance to get to know this country and the people. And honestly I think the people of Japan could use a little more Bianca Reed in their lives - just like everyone else in the world.”

DEVIN HEARST

With a microphone in one hand, Hearst took a drag from the cigarette in the other, letting the ash baptize his lungs into the black existence the rest of him lived in. As he let the dragon’s breath go, he gazes up into the ceiling, and into the heavens beyond.

“What I find amusing is that when I win this thing you’ll all call it an ‘upset’. One of those story book ‘shocking’ victories that this game loves so much. I wouldn’t expect much else. You humans are such fleeting creatures. You finally catch the ball, chew on it once or twice, and then on to the next. You’re historical sluts just trying to jam as many big memories and ‘I was theres’ into the minutes you have to fester in this world. It’s almost endearing.”

Hearst chuckles, returning again to his cigarette. He lets the smoke crawl out slowly.

“But you’ll forgive me if I don’t let this one slide. See, this has been the problem with the NJFC since I’ve arrived; a lack of respect. When I arrived in Japan I became the alpha; the first. Before all the others came in riding their popularity and catch phrases, I set the standard. Month after month, win after win, I held the New Japan banner up and dropped champions that came here just for a cheap plug and a paycheck. I proved this company was the best … and yet no one brings my name up. I’m the side show. Hell, your website doesn’t even have all of my title defenses on it. I remain the consistent … and yet you, Peterson, keep groveling to these cartoon characters, asking for flips and t-shirt sales. I gave you a chance, man. I gave you a chance.”

Dropping the cigarette and putting it out with his heel, Hearst turned his equally burning glare into the camera.

“But you’ve seem to have forgotten who the fuck I am! I am plague. I am the slow, choking death of every man and woman who turns to the rising sun. You all think she wants you … she doesn’t want you. She never did. I held her first. She is still a part of me.”

Bianca Reed versus Devin Hearst

This match was underway at a fast tempo, with Bianca Reed wanting to prove she was more than just a rookie to the experienced Devin Hearst who remained calm and composed, allowing Reed to deliver a series of blows as she brought him to the ropes. She'd Irish whip him and he'd come back to clobber her with a lariat, very early on, changing the dynamics of the match. From then, Hearst would display his dominance, a series of grounded holds would show that he was more than just a striker. Reed however, wouldn't budge, and would continuously fight to her feet, to the dismay of Hearst. By the corner, Reed recuperated and Hearst would run toward him, wanting to deliver a big splash in the corner but Reed would roll out of the way. Turning away, Reed would greet him with a hurricanrana, pin attempt being unsuccessful, but then an arm drag, followed by a standing moonsault attempt, he'd move out of the way, she'd land on her feet, and the two would embrace the cheers of the audience.

Circling the ring, the two would meet in the middle for a test of strength with Hearst dominantly shoving her back into the ropes, she latched onto them to force the rope break. Gradually, he let go and once he did, shoot kick to the leg by Bianca Reed, Hearst holding onto the leg whilst Reed took off to the ropes, coming off of them and a single leg drop kick to Hearst who'd hit the canvas. She'd mount on top of him for another pin attempt but nothing substantial, as he burst his shoulder up to avoid defeat. He rolled to the outside and held onto his leg, the shoot kick from Reed perhaps being harder than he first thought. Reed would take off to the ropes, bouncing off of them before flying over the opposite ropes, looking for a somersault dive but Hearst would catch her, and powerbomb to the ring apron! 

She let out a cry in agony, arching her back as Hearst leaned against the guard railing, panting and laughing at Reed who slowly made it to her feet. He grabbed her, spearing her into the ring apron a couple of times before sliding her into the ring and joining. He went for the pin but Reed managed to kick out. Grabbing her by her hair, he brought her to the corner. It was here where an onslaught of strikes would connect, starting with shoot kicks to the chest, followed by the stiffest right hand which he managed to sneak past the referee. She stumbled out of the corner and he hit the ropes, coming off of them with Reed leaping up over him. He bounced off the opposite ropes, and Reed would connect with a drop kick. She would then connect with a standing moonsault, receiving applause as she mounted on top of him for the pin but to no prevail. 

Reed, burying her head in her hands, would then look at the top rope, point toward it before making the climb. Hearst, using his ring awareness, quickly rolled back up to his feet, springing to Reed and looking to superplex her off but she fought him off. She would then perform a missile drop kick on Hearst, mounting on top of him again but to no prevail, once again! Bringing him back up to his feet, snap DDT, pin attempt, nothing! She picked him back up, this time looking for a springboard DDT but he held her up as she looked to connect after the springboard, he then transitioned her into a suplex, snapping her onto the canvas. Picking her up, he positioned her on the top rope so that she was almost laying against it. He rolled backwards, ran toward her and connected with a knee strike to the mid section. She dropped to the canvas. Knee drop by Hearst, pin attempt, but only the two. 

The Seven Headed Beast would back away, seeing Reed in a seated position, he swung his boot, she hit the canvas, before roll up attempt from behind and almost getting the three. Hearst was stunned as he rose to his feet. Reed on the other side of the ring ran toward him, he leaped up, managing to double stomp her back down to the canvas. Pin attempt, but Reed continued to show life, bursting her shoulder up to break the count. He wiped the sweat away from his head, picking her up, Full Nelson position, up, transitioning into a Go 2 Sleep styled knee, "The Brahmastra". Pin attempt, but somehow, someway, she kicked out!

The fans were impressed but though he probably never would've admitted it, so was Devin Hearst. But Reed wouldn't kick out of what Hearst had planned for her next, a running kick to her chest done the trick and secured the victory for Devin Hearst, who sat in the ring afterward - alone, looking at the camera that fixated on him, remaining vacant from any emotion.

Winner: 9:54

Match Rating: ** 3/4

[James Peterson]

ACE KING

“This is the last I’ll say about him here,” he begins, still annoyed at the questioning. “Full credit: He beat me in Tokyo. It stings, I won’t lie. While some will say get over it, I choose to learn from it. I’m as adaptable a wrestler as anyone, and even though I lost, I stood and took his best shot. I got knocked down, but as you can see, I got back up. I’ve been in the fire now, and I understand how deep I have to dig to beat him and ultimately become the NJFC Global Champion.”

He looks at the championship sitting to his left; the press once again scrambles for microphones until a portly gentleman steps forward.

“Yu Watanabe, TXN,” he says, adjusting his glasses. “You start Global Takeover against fellow EWC competitor Otaki. What do you see as her biggest strength and weakness?”

“I’ve never wrestled Megan before, so this is all observation,” Ace answers with a nod. “Her biggest strength is perseverance; you don’t win EWC’s Rumble in the Bronx without it. She couldn’t parlay it into the Undisputed Championship, but you can’t begrudge her given she was facing Jaden Hunter and Ashton Drake, wrestling’s two biggest behemoths. She’s never out of a match, and it’s something I respect and identify with. Her weakness?”

Ace pauses for a drink, thinking carefully about his answer.

“Consistency,” he says bluntly. “She’ll say it herself, so it’s not a pot shot. I don’t know if Wrestlefest sent her downward, but she hasn’t won in a bit. Now, that doesn’t mean anything once the bell rings, so it’s about staying locked on target. The tape says one thing, but I’m going to Fresno to watch her on FSW and form a game plan. I can’t and won’t leave any stone unturned, because she’s the most unpredictable wrestler in the tournament, and I’ll be ready.”

OTAKI

“I know that you lot will have questions about this tournament to crown the new NJFC Global Champion-”

The milky skinned woman takes a moment to glance her misty eyes towards the direction where her fellow contestants have both entered and exit

“-but we am not here to answer any questions. We are only here to deliver our warning…”

She takes a momentary deep breath while slowly lowering her head down. After a couple moments the twenty-two year old contestant raises her head back up with a look of death written all over her youthful face.

“Whoever I was…winner or loser…is dead…but I stand before you reborn because of my martyrs and it is with my martyrs that we’ll not merely win the NJFC Global Championship. We will use every lifeless body from this tournament – be them our first casualty Ace King, the man who ran away from EWC Jack Tillman or even one of those local competitors – to light our Fiery Bonfire Torch of Destiny…

And with our Fiery Bonfire Torch of Destiny in our hands we’ll infest NJFC…

Step-by-step, our plague will choke all of them.
Step-by-step, our curse will drain them dry.
Step-by-step, our disease will claim them all.
And our endemic cannot be stopped.

Be them multiple time Champions, people with multiple monikers…or even those with multiple biscuits in their mouth-”

Ace King versus Otaki

HEAVYWEIGHT CLASS J HEAVYWEIGHT 

6'3" HEIGHT 5'6"

225LBS WEIGHT 132LBS

LV, NEVADA   HOMETOWN  LAWRENCE, KS

With both King and Otaki standing in the ring, waiting to get this match underway, the referee signals for the bell as both competitors begin to circle around one another; getting a slight feel for how the other is going to start this match off. Kicking things off with a collar and elbow tie-up, King immediately brings it to a headlock and throws the much smaller Otaki over his hip taking this match to the ground. Really applying the pressure, Otaki eventually scrounges her way up to her feet and reaches up grabbing the head of King, pulling his hair which causes King to apply the lock even harder.

Managing to break the hold, she shoves him into the ropes and on his way back, she hits a textbook drop kick which drops King. Immediately rising to his feet, she hits another one and then a third which causes King to roll out of the ring to regroup. Taking a moment to think about his next move, Otaki stands in the center of the ring, with her arms up into the air as these Japanese fans give her a wonderful ovation. Climbing back into the ring, they once again embrace in a collar and elbow tie-up but Otaki saw it coming so she pushes him away again but instead of returning, he holds onto the top rope, stopping all of his momentum as Otaki lands hard having attempted another drop kick. Holding the back of her head, this gives King the opportunity he was looking for as he rushes over there and applies a beautiful kneebar which causes the lovely Otaki to scream and rive in pain. Making sure that he has it applied perfectly, he really torques the knee, wanting to make sure to remove her aerial game since he knows that it is a real threat.

As several moments went by, with King in control of the match. Otaki eventually catches him off guard and manages to hit an enziguri right to the back of his head which causes him to fall down to the canvas, lying there motionless. Showing veteran instincts, she immediately crawls over there and hooks the leg; the referee drops down to make the count.

In a very close call, King manages to press his shoulder off of the canvas showing great resilience. With these fans cheering some more, they love this back and forth action that both competitors are bringing right now. Grabbing King by his short hair, Otaki Irish whips him into the turnbuckle but not expecting it, he runs out leveling her with a very stiff clothesline as she lies there motionless. Rolling her over onto her back, he hooks the leg, looking for the victory here.

Just in the nick of time, she manages to press her shoulder off of the canvas which makes him begin to question what he has to do in order to put her away. Climbing to his feet, he grabs a handful of her hair, bringing her up with him. Hooking his arm around her shoulder, he throws all of his weight backwards, as well as her with a vicious looking T-Bone suplex which causes her body to crumple. Covering her body again, he really hopes that this puts her away.

Getting much closer than before, she still manages to kick out which shows great resilience on her part, shows just how bad she wants this match. Taking in a deep breath, he pulls her up to her feet again but from out of nowhere; she grabs him and plants him down to the canvas with a nasty DDT which causes all of these fans to gasp as they have no clue what's going to happen next. Walking over to the nearest turnbuckle, she climbs up it slowly and motions for King to get up. As he pulls himself up, slowly, even using the ropes, she leaps off catching a load of air and hits a flying crossbody which takes him down to the canvas, the referee immediately sliding into position to make the count.

NO! Right before the referee’s hand strikes the mat for a third time, he places his foot on the bottom rope showing great ring awareness. Slapping the canvas out of frustration, she lets her emotions get the best of her as she even goes as far as to argue with the referee about it being a three count. Giving King a little bit of time to recover, he crawls over to the nearest turnbuckle and sits in it, trying to regain some of his bearings. After arguing with the referee, Otaki sees this and gets a huge smile on her face. Running over to the opposite turnbuckle, she charges in with a full head of steam, looking to throw all of her body weight and momentum right into his face with a butt bump but King manages to move his head at the last minute which causes her slender frame to strike the turnbuckle, spine first and using this opportunity, he rolls her up looking for the win here.

NO! NO! Just inches before the referee’s hand strikes the mat, she manages to get her shoulder up off of the canvas, just barely as both King and the fans are in complete disbelief right now. Slowly making his way to his feet, he motions to the crowd that he is getting ready to hit her with the Blackjack Bomb. As she finally makes her way back to her feet, he grabs her over his shoulders but before he can put her down, she looks right into his face and spits a red mist that goes right into his eyes, causing him to drop her and stumble away trying to regain his eyesight.

Upon turning around, blinded, she lunges out from behind and grabs him, hitting the GRAND FINALE as she lies over him, very weak and tired while just barely able to hook the leg.

Finally putting him away, these fans give both competitors a standing ovation as Otaki rolls off of him and lies there for a moment, not really wanting to move or anything.

Winner: Otaki (10:52)

Match Rating: ***

[James Peterson]

ANASTASIA HAYDEN

"Do you guys ask everyone else this drivel or am I just that unfortunate? Let me go ahead and clear up the notion that my last tournament run didn't end in a 'defeat'. Terry and I didn't walk away with the titles in our hands, but we prevented others from reaching the belts. And that's all that matters to me this go around."

Kouta sits back down and another reporter stands, but as she begins to speak, Ana puts her hand out toward the journalist

"Go ahead and stop right there. I didn't fly all the way out to Japan to listen to you idiots struggle to put together a question that doesn't insult me as a wrestler. Since I'm so used to carrying everyone else, I'll go ahead and ask the questions. Now, let's begin, shall we?"

The female reporter sits down as Ana clears her throat and speaks out in a voice that's only slightly different from her own

"Ana, if you're not interested in winning a championship, why are you involved in the tournament for the NJFC Global Championship?"

"Fair question. Like I previously stated, I didn't care that Terry and myself left Tokyo without the GPC World Tag Team Championships. Just like I won't care if I leave Osaka without the Global Championship. If you've paid attention to anything in the wrestling world, you'd know that I've proven myself to be one of the greatest and hardest working wrestlers alive today. So why burden myself with a golden paperweight?"

"And secondly, I came all the way to Osaka to embarrass everyone else in the running for this title. They want it so badly? I'll make them work for it. And if they fail, I'll just take it home and dump it in the trash with the rest of the belts I've collected. When I make it past the first round, I'll be content cause that means I've ripped away that little validation that so many of these 'professionals' need. Next question please."

TOSHIKAZU

Sum Ting Wong 

Only if it permits it Toshikazu will take his true form. His father and other evil dragon spirits who wish to terrorize the human specials have not opposed a threat in some time. As long as Toshikazu is here to protect us, we may not fear.  

Rachel Kenshin 

Okay back to the tournament...Excuse my collegue please, Toshikazu. You are replacing the injured Ryuu Kazuhiko and are set to face Anastasia. What are your thoughts going into this match?  

Wong nods as he listens to his master.  

Sum Ting Wong 

He’s excited. He knows Anastasia will present a challenge and he cannot wait to step into the ring with her to see how much of a challenge she truly presents.  

Rachel Kenshin 

Is there anyone in the tournament you’d like to go up against if you were to advance?  

Toshikazu shakes his head.  

Sum Ting Wong 

It doesn’t matter who he faces. He is welcoming the challenge from whoever and all that set before him to go up against. Though, he is looking for someone who he can press the limits of this current human form.  

Shelley Silver 

Last question, Toshikazu. What would it mean to you if you were to become the NJFC Global Champion?  

Toshikazu takes a moment to answer.  

Sum Ting Wong 

Championships. Medals. Trophies. The prizes of competition. Toshikazu already has the ultimate prize...And that’s the victory over his father for the lives of Japan. To become this company’s Global Champion would be a great honor to him. Truly. But it also he isn’t exactly striving for. As I said before Toshikazu is here to have as much fun as possible and compete with the likes of you all. Win or lose, this a fun time for him. But if he were to become champion, he hopes to represent this company as well as he possibly could as its champion and will welcome nothing but the best of challengers.  

Anastasia Hayden versus Toshikazu

J HEAVYWEIGHT  CLASS  J HEAVYWEIGHT

5'6"  HEIGHT  6'0"

128LBS  WEIGHT  195LBS

STEELE, ND  HOMETOWN  UNKNOWN

In a clash of styles, the high flying Toshikazu took on the hard hitting Anastasia Hayden. The match started with Toshikazu keeping his distance as Anastasia Hayden threw a mixed series of kicks that he was able dodge. Toshikazu backed himself against the turnbuckle but rolled underneath a running Yakuza kick and then countered with a spinning lariat that turned Anastasia inside out and followed that up with a standing moonsault.

After a quick pin attempt, Toshikazu lifted Anastasia Hayden up to her feet and whipped her into the corner. He charged the corner and crushed Hayden with a running European Uppercut. He took a step back, allowing her to stagger out of the corner. He lifted her up, driving his shoulder into her midsection and spun her around for a spinebuster! Toshikazu took his time stepping through the ropes and climbing to the top. Before he could fly through the air, Anastasia popped up to her feet and caught him off guard with a running leaping knee that connected to the side of the head. Hayden held onto the rope and collected herself as Toshikazu sat dazed on the top turnbuckle. Hayden backed to the middle of the ring, ran towards her opponent, leaping up to the middle rope and flipping Toshikazu into the ring with a release belly-to-belly suplex.

Anastasia and Toshikazu got to their feet close to the same time. Hayden got the upperhand with a spinning back kick to the midsection which she followed with a series of leg kicks to the knee that chopped him down to the mat and then a hook kick to the side of the head. She stood over him and watched as he rolled into a seated position and then ran towards the ropes, rebounding back towards Toshikazu, and hitting her sliding forearm smash, Human Target Practice! Hayden came up short on the pin attempt that followed, getting a two count from the official.

Hayden lifts Toshikazu up to his feet but gets caught with a back elbow to the gut. Toshikazu tries for a short lariat but Hayden ducks under. Hayden throws her own lariat attempt and Toshikazu ducks under, but he catches her arm, isolates it, flips over her back and rolls through into an armbar submission hold. Hayden manages to squirm close enough to get her foot on the bottom rope breaking up the submission attempt. As both climb to their feet, Hayden drives her knee into Toshikazu’s stomach, doubling him over. She hops up into the air looking for a hurricanrana. Before she could flip Toshikazu over, he stops her momentum and counters it into a boston crab! Once again, Anastasia Hayden has to fight her way to the ropes, grabbing the bottom rope to break up the submission hold.

Toshikazu waves Anastasia to her feet and meets her with a forearm smash. Hayden staggers backwards but stays on her feet. She stumbles forward and cracks him on the jaw with a forearm of her own. Toshikazu reaches out and grabs Hayden by the throat and hits her with a series of palm strikes to the chest. Hayden chops Toshikazu’s arm away and throws a headbutt out of desperation. She follows with a spinning back kick to the stomach that drops Toshikazu down to one knee and then flattens him with a switchblade kick to the back of the head. Hayden rolls Toshikazu over for the cover but only gets a two count.

Hayden is slow to her feet, but Toshikazu is even slower. Toshikazu uses the ropes to stand up and Hayden closes in from behind. Toshikazu hits Hayden with a back elbow, creating some separation. He turns around and runs towards her and she throws a high spinning wheel kick that he ducks under. Toshikazu approaches the ropes, leaps up onto the middle and springboards back towards Hayden with a roundhouse kick! Toshikazu took to the apron and waited for Hayden to climb back to her feet. He leaped up to the top rope, twisting before springboarding towards Hayden, connecting with a beautiful 720 DDT! He immediately tried for the pin attempt but Hayden’s fighting spirit wouldn’t let the match end just yet.

Toshikazu paused before pushing up to his feet, seemingly taken back by Hayden’s resiliency. He lifted his lifeless opponent and whipped her hard into the corner. Hayden staggered out of the corner as Toshikazu ran the ropes. He bounced off of the ropes and spun, looking for a rolling elbow strike. Hayden ducked under the elbow and jumped up, dragging Toshikazu to the mat with a backstabber. Anastasia thought of this to be as good as a time as any to show her own high flying abilities, taking to the top rope and crashing down onto Toshikazu with a diving crossbody! Her relentless attack continued as she timed her Wolf Down hurricanrana driver perfectly!

But Toshikazu wasn’t done fighting yet either. He fought out of a confident pin attempt from Anastasia Hayden. Frustration began getting the best of Hayden as she turned her attention to the official and argued the speed of his count. Toshikazu rises up and sneaks behind Hayden, quickly trapping one arm and slamming her backwards with a half nelson suplex! Toshikazu kneels next to Hayden and looks over to the ropes. He hops up and runs towards the ropes, leaping up onto the middle rope and springboarding backwards with a lionsault which leads to another close two count from the official.

Hayden rolls out of the ring under the bottom rope to escape her opponent. Toshikazu runs towards the opposite ropes and rebounds towards Hayden. He dove through the ropes looking for a suicide dive but got caught with a jumping european uppercut. Toshikazu landed flat on the ring apron before being shoved into the ring. Anastasia slid back into the ring and stood in the corner, waiting for Toshikazu to stand to his feet. As he turned towards Anastasia, she charged and connected with her running single leg dropkick, She Was Only Seventeen! Hayden quicky rolled both legs up, putting all of her weight and his onto his shoulders and got the three count to pick up the victory!

Winner: Anastasia Hayden (13:46)

Match Rating: ***

[James Peterson]

June 24th & June 25th

FEATURING...

FGA UNDISPUTED CHAMPIONSHIP
(c) Izzy Anders vs. Johnny Karma

FGA PRIDE CHAMPIONSHIP
(c) Chris Madison vs. Savannah Taylor

FIRST TIME EVER
Chandler Scott vs. Felicity Banks

[James Peterson]

CRAIG ANDERSON

"It's by no means going to be easy, though. Takashi Shinobu is no push-over. He knows a lot more about wrestling in this country than I do, that's for sure. But, interestingly, he also considers himself an underdog. Seldom have I been in the situation where both I and my opponent are considered the 'underdog', but I'm not fazed in the slightest. We all love an underdog story; they make for a great movie. Imagine a tale about a young Englishmen, on his first ever visit to Japan, coming in and winning the Global Championship. Now that's a story!"

"Should I get past Takashi, and I intend to do so, I will then go on to face either Bianca Reed or Devin Hearst - the latter being a former Global Champion. Did you know that he never actually lost it? Gosh, he really should mention that more often."

Craig chuckles slightly; the many times a company closed as soon as he won their main title coming to mind.

"You see, Devin, here's the thing. I couldn't care less whether you lost it or not. I mean, it's great that you're a former Global Champion and what not, but you're in this tournament just like the rest of us. If you're expecting us all to just lie down and let you reclaim what isn't actually yours, you're sadly mistaken.
I'll be doing rather the opposite: putting on one of the greatest matches of my career. I've sent you an invitation, Devin. But you'd better accept it quickly, or else Bianca might sneak in first!"

"In this tournament, though, are many potentially fantastic matches. I'd absolutely love to meet Owen Gonsalves in the final, in what would be a long-overdue match between the two of us. But honestly, it will be an honour to face off against any of these talented men and women. I've honestly not seen many greater lineups of talent than the one scheduled to compete over three huge nights in Osaka. We've got former Champions, current Champions and even future Champions. I cannot wait to share the ring with as many of you as I possibly can, and even if my contract isn't extended beyond this event, I'm going to make sure I leave a lasting impression!"

Craig walks slowly towards the camera, preparing to end the recording.

"Oh, yeah. One last thing, before I go..."

He takes a pause to clear his throat and mind.

"....dive!"

DEVIN HEARST 

“I’ve been planning all of this for a year, now. My masterpiece. The perfect culmination of the universe. Global Takeover will be a dissection I’ve mapped down to the smallest tendon and nerve, but all journeys begin with a first step. For a feat this … beautiful … the first stroke must be perfect. This is why I chose you, Ms. Reed. You are perfect. Such tragedy and beauty, strength and resolve all in one soul. She would only want you, and who am I to refuse?”

Another moment, another take from the cigarette and another breath let out into the haze gliding through the suite.

“It won’t be a gory affair, I assure you. Graphic, yes … but necessary. A series of small incisions until the final cut. The masterstroke in the tournament finals. The rest of the bodies I plan to throw on the pile, just as I said. You, Bianca? I’ll give you the place of honor you deserve. A true Viking burial; because you’ve proven you deserve Valhalla. Unfortunately, that’s all you’ll find … but it’s the best I can do. Please tell your teacher I tried. I’m only doing this as a favor, anyway.”

Hearst paced through the room lit only by the feint aura of the lights in busy Osaka. He crushed his cigarette into the ashtray and dropped onto the leather sofa, leaning in and rested his chin on his folded hands.

“So many temporary faces walking into my home, eating and making merry like we weren’t here to begin with. You’ll hear the complaints about them, I bet. People don’t really grow to the idea that strangers can waltz into their promotion, throw a couple punches and walk on home with a pay day. Me? I’m banking on it. See there’s this little secret that only I know: the Global Championship isn’t a prize. It’s a weapon. A lure most intoxicating and undeniable. In your hands, she’s no more than leather scraps with gold trimmings … but in mine she comes alive. A faithful sword that I’ve already used to cut down four previous men, and this time will be no different.”

We couldn’t see his eyes in the shadow but we knew he was watching. He was always watching. The chuckle that escaped his lips was harsh and grated.

“They never see it coming. All the warning in the world and these brave, brave dumb asses stroll in like they’re going to do something different. They’re going to break the mold. You never know the dogs are on you until your throat’s already out. So let’s show the world my vision. Let’s build a shrine to pride, greed and ignorance together … and when we’re done … I’m going to fucking sacrifice you all on it. Don’t you worry, though … ”

Hearst leaned back, draping an arm across the back of the sofa; crossing one leg over the other. If it was possible to be more relaxed before a day of war, no man had come closer than Seven-Headed Beast.

“We’ll send your payment to your next of kin.”

Craig Anderson versus Devin Hearst

J HEAVYWEIGHT  CLASS  HEAVYWEIGHT
6'0"   HEIGHT  6'1"
170LBS  WEIGHT 225LBS
WORCESTER, UK   HOMETOWN  HELLS KITCHEN, NY

This match had match of the night written all over it before the bell had even rung. Anderson had already garnered quite the following from his match against NJFC original Takashi but now he would be facing another original, but a different beast entirely, the first ever NJFC Global Champion of the new era Devin Hearst. The two men would look at each other from across the ring, circling the ring once the bell rung but both, careful about their movements. They'd approach the center of the ring, collar to elbow tie up would engage with Hearst quickly getting in behind Anderson for the waist lock, who would able Anderson in the abdomen, turning around and coming into his own with a series of forearm strikes. He came off the ropes, being met with a thunderous forearm strike by Hearst. Who then came off of the ropes and Anderson would return the favor, only to learn that Devin Hearst was a fucking brick wall, eating the strike and looking unaffected by it. He smiled and Anderson looking at his forearm, before going for another and another but Hearst was inviting him to hit harder, yelling that he bring it to him. Anderson then took off to the ropes, coming off of them, big boot attempt by Hearst, ducking under the leg, turned him around and hit the stiffest forearm strike he could hit, forcing Hearst to stagger a little, to the surprise of the fans and commentary team. Hearst appeared to have been bleed by his lip, he wiped the blood away, smiled, turning to Anderson, and with one forearm strike, got him down onto the canvas. Hearst would then engage in a grounded chin lock, could've gone for the pin but knew full well Anderson was a fighter, he wasn't going to kick out regardless.

His game plan now, wear him down. Anderson would manage to reach the ropes with his foot. Hearst got off of him and brought him up onto his feet, looking for a German but Anderson landed on his feet, turning Anderson around - open palm, shoot kick, spinning backfist, looking to complete the sequence with a lariat, but Hearst had other plans, swinging his arm to connect with a lariat of his own but Anderson would see this coming, flipping onto his feet. Low stance, whilst Hearst walked away, believing he must have hit Anderson with the hardest of strikes he snarled. To his surprise, when he turned Anderson was posing in a low stance, embracing the applause of the audience. 

The Seven Headed Beast charged toward Anderson, who helped him on his way to the ropes, hitting the canvas and forcing Hearst to hop over him. Hearst came off the ropes again and this time it was Anderson leapfrogging over him. Hearst came off once more and Anderson would connect with a spinning heel kick, "woooo" to the audience as he rose to his feet and Hearst rolled to the outside. He then took off to the ropes but Hearst slid back into the ring, running to the opposite ropes, coming off of them, big boot to Anderson. He would then go for the double stomp, Anderson rolled away, back up on their feet, Anderson ducked under a lariat attempt, handspring onto the ropes, coming off of them and connecting with an enziguri kick!

REPLAY BOARD

Cover attempt but no prevail! Hearst helped himself up via the corner. Anderson ran toward him, body avalanche transitioning onto the apron. Hearst stumbled out of the corner and Anderson prepared himself on the apron. Springboard into the ring but Hearst would jump up into the air, yakuza kick connecting! Hearst would then pick Anderson back up, DDT to the canvas! Picking him up yet again, but this time, a deadlift German suplex, releasing him and allowing him to roll to the outside. Hearst would roll out to the outside himself, picking Anderson up by his head and throwing him into the railing. Picking him up again, he got him up on the apron and hopped on himself, looking to connect with a snap suplex. Anderson used all of his weight to weigh himself down before connecting with shots to the mid section of Hearst who eventually let go. Kick to the mid section, Anderson would then take a few steps back, running toward him with a superkick attempt but Hearst caught his foot, dropping his foot and then connecting with a roundhouse kick. Anderson would fall to the outside and Hearst would then sit on the apron, allowing himself time to recuperate. 

Bringing Anderson back into the ring, he'd go for the pin but only the two. 

Hearst would take a few steps back as Anderson sat up, swung his leg, Anderson hit the canvas, kipped himself up afterward, Hearst turned around - SUPERKICK! Hearst fell back onto the ropes, coming off of them with a spinning back heel kick! Anderson hit the canvas like a ton of bricks, the fans jaws dropping from the connection, from the sheer power behind the kick. Hearst would fall on top of him, with the hope of victory being diminished, torn away from him as Anderson kicked out, to the fans approval. 

The former NJFC Global champion rose to his feet and picked Anderson up to, full nelson position but Anderson slipped down to avoid the move, shoot kick to the leg, open palm strike to the head, forearm, open palm, right jab, left jab, series of slaps in quick succession to the chest, one arm swinging neckbreaker - followed by a standing shooting star press! Pin attempt, but only the two. Anderson would then climb the ropes, signaling the end of the match as he played to the fans for a moment, positioning himself. Corkscrew shooting star attempt but Hearst rolled out of the way just in time to avoid the impact! Crashing and burning to the canvas Anderson would go, holding onto his mid section as he sat up - which he shouldn't have, Anderson running toward him and connecting with "The Path of Lions!", a running vicious kick to the chest, falling on top of him to get the one, the two and the three to secure the victory and book himself a semi final match!

Winner: Devin Hearst (15:23)

Match Rating: ****

[James Peterson]

OTAKI

“But let me guess, Ace, this ain’t the first time you’ve faced a confident person who thinks that they can take your very best and best. Not just as a nine year wrestling veteran, but also back beforehand in the gambling side of Vegas. However I’ll do you a favour and bring in an example…Jason Hunter, not only a friend of mine but also the son of Ruth – who herself happens to be both your old friend and a role model to me – who not only felt like you didn’t belong with him but also defeated you without too much of a problem.

No disrespect intended but, no matter who he was trained by, that child who beat you has absolutely nothing on me. I won’t go into detail about that since it’s stupid to get one’s self mentally side-tracked when their opposition is the person exactly opposite of the table…be it Poker, Top Trumps or Duel Monsters.

But maybe that’s what you’re relying on, aren’t you Ace? A simple rookie mistake. Falling for a little bluff. Tripping over myself. You’re probably waiting for the ideal opportunity to strike, always waiting until the very split second you’re in the position to win. But something you need to realise is this…I don’t make mistakes, I don’t fall for bluffs and I, for damn sure, don’t trip up. For I may be many things, both good and bad, but the one thing I bloody well am is a master tactician. Be them masked mystery men, Hong Kong sensations or mixed martial artists, I have always found a strategy to defeat them all.

So feel free to bring your very best. Hell, feel free to bring plan A, B, C and every other plan from D to Z for I will tell you right now that it will not be good enough to defeat me…”

Focus, pure unadulterated focus is what could best describe the way Otaki is glaring directly at us while saying her words. After a couple of seconds the she leans back a bit and lets out a light chuckle before slowly standing up.

“Nothing you, or anyone else who comes to Osaka on that day, can do will ever be enough to stop me from becoming the NJFC Global Championship.

And you all can bet on that.”

ANASTASIA HAYDEN

"I've wasted far too much time already talking about New Japan, the Global Championship, and this tournament. Don't get me wrong, I'm real glad to be back in Japan and in Osaka, but I'm tired of everyone trying to act all tough and bad ass about 'going through everyone' to become the champion. It's the same story everywhere you go. Different tournament and company, but you'll still find the same tired routine. Oh, they'll beat everyone they say, no one will stop them from achieving their dream, they say. It's just rinse and repeat. We get it, you want to become the champion, but why?"

"So you can prove your meaningless career has some worth to it? Is anyone in this tournament actually stupid enough to think people will care what belt they hold onto? When will you idiots realize it's not about who is champion...it's about the championship. That's the only thing people care about. When you become the champion, then everyone wants the championship. The moment that belt comes into your possession, you become worthless to everyone. You're just a placeholder for the rest of the roster. And while you hold that belt with a sappy fucking smile or smirk, everyone is just plotting on how to rip that title away from you. And most of you are too god damn ignorant to realize the target you're putting on your back."

"Me? I realize that. And if I become the champion, I'll continue to realize that. Everyone else gets so caught up in being a champion, they forgot what took them there in the first place. Their eyes just narrow in on worthless gold and when they get beat, they act all surprised as if they didn't know what was next. Then you start a new cycle where they just bitch and moan about not being the champion anymore and how they want it back. I can tell you, I'm really not looking forward to that after this tournament, but hey, what can you do?"

Otaki versus Anastasia Hayden

J HEAVYWEIGHT  CLASS  J HEAVYWEIGHT

5'6"  HEIGHT  5'6"

132LBS  WEIGHT  128LBS

LAWRENCE, KS  HOMETOWN  STEEL, ND

Otaki, of Extreme Wrestling Corporation. Anastasia Hayden, of Four Corners Wrestling. Two of the biggest promotions in professional wrestling today, two competitors who had never met in the ring prior, and comparing their stats, their accomplishments, head to head this was promised to be a close encounter. The match would start with Otaki receiving a pop from the fans as she played to them, posing and bowing as Hayden looked in disgust, she wasn't here for the entertainment factor. As she had stated in her promotional videos and at the press conference, she was here to prevent others from progressing through the tournament. She done so with Toshikazu, next up was the energetic Otaki. The two would meet with a proposed knuckle hold by Hayden who then quickly locked Otaki into a headlock, slam to the canvas and held her down, blows to the head connecting as she continued to keep the hold intact. Coming back up onto their feet, Otaki would force Hayden into the ropes and swing her to the opposite ones, Hayden would come back and Otaki would deliver a butt jump to Hayden who would hit the canvas and roll to the outside.

Already Otaki had connected with one of her signature moves. She would then baseball slide under the bottom rope, forcing Hayden back into the railing before grabbing her by the roots of her hair. Hayden wasn't liking that. Not, one, bit. She threw her hands up and connected with a forearm to Otaki who stumbled back into the apron. She then rolled Otaki into the ring and joined her afterward, with Otaki running to the ropes coming off of them with Hayden moving out of the way, waist lock from behind into a hammerlock. Otaki would then find the loopholes to get herself out of the hammerlock, wrist lock on her behalf on Hayden, applying as much pressure as she could. Hayden would roll forward, roll back and kip herself up, breaking the hold as she used her free arm to drive into the arm of Otaki and connected with an open palm strike to Otaki. Otaki felt it but she wasn't effected by it. She turned connected with an open palm strike of her own, a harder one than Hayden's, who stumbled back a little. Hayden came off the ropes and toward Otaki, lariat attempt, ducked - backslide by Otaki, two count, raced up, Hayden grabbing Otaki by the head and putting her in a tight side headlock whilst bringing her to the corner. Throwing her against it, she laid a barrel of boots to the mid section, Otaki getting lower and lower in the corner as Hayden continued.

Finally, Otaki was now in a seated position and Hayden came out of the corner, jogging to the opposite one, hitting the corner and turning around to run at Otaki, who had slid out of the ring. Hayden then slingshot her way onto the apron, waiting for Otaki to turn round, she landed a kick to the chest which forced her down to the floor and followed this with a running senton. She got up and embraced the applause from the audience, taunting Otaki to revert from a positive reaction to a negative. Grabbing her by her hair, she held her down against the canvas and delivered knee's to her sides, wanting to punish her, wanting to hurt her as much as she possibly could. She laughed at Otaki dropped to the floor, picking her up and swinging her into the guard railing, with Otaki clutching onto her mid section. Hayden would then run toward her but Otaki would counter with a slap, and another one, and another one, multiple connecting before she landed a backfist with both competitors falling to the floor. 

The official hopped out to check on the women with Otaki rising to her feet first and rolling Hayden into the ring. Hayden is seated in the corner and Otaki looked around the arena, and obvious excitement beginning to build from within as she grinned and nodded her head, the fans getting the jist of what she had planned for Hayden next. She ran toward her, butt bump to the head of Hayden who's head recoiled off the padded corner. Otaki then picked her up and Irish whip to the ropes, Hayden came back and Otaki jumped up in the air, a butt move in preparation as she turned but Hayden would duck under, going between her legs, as Otaki landed, a kick from Hayden to the mid section of Otaki would connect and Otaki dropped to her knee's. Hayden then ran to the ropes and gave Otaki a taste of her own medicine, butt bump to the face, mimicking her opponent. She laughed as Otaki held onto her face, posing to the crowd for a few moments before mounting on top of her but only getting the two.

Anastasia would then lock Otaki in a Dragon Sleeper submission - Otaki struggling to reach for the ropes would use the energy of the audience to help her do so, her legs stretching, getting closer and closer before finally, she got the rope break! Anastasia kept the hold intact, wanting to wear her down completely before releasing the hold and rising to her feet. By her hair she brought her up, attempting a Northern Lights but Otaki wouldn't lift. Jabs to the mid section followed, Hayden released and Otaki took off to the ropes, springboard off of them, turning to connect with a high knee to Hayden. Hayden rolled to the corner, using the ropes to help herself up as Otaki came toward her, a flurry of ballistic strikes to Hayden who was stunned by the quick succession. Otaki then took off to the ropes, coming off of them, Hayden ducked under her butt bump attempt, reverse Frankensteiner would connect from Hayden! 

The whole dynamics of the match had changed once again and Anastasia would rise to her feet, wiping the sweat away from her face she stalked Otaki, taunting her with a sickening laugh. Waist lock, rolling backwards German suplex which was then bridged into a pin, SHEER connecting for the one, the two but Otaki would burst up before the three, showing life once again! Anastasia rose to her feet and waited for Otaki to rise. Once she did, she ran toward her, backfist by Otaki, series of strike to the head, Irish whip, reversed, Otaki coming off the ropes, butt bump followed by a leg drop. Otaki got to her feet and cupped her hands, the fans knowing what she had planned for Hayden, and cheering as Hayden gradually got to her feet. "Ka-me-ha-me-" was shouted by Otaki and she thrust forward with Hayden limboing underneath her arm, taking off to the ropes - coming off of them, single leg drop kick to Otaki - She Was Only Seventeen connecting for the one, the two and the three to secure the victory!

Winner: Anastasia Hayden (13:24)

Match Rating: ****

[James Peterson]

DEVIN HEARST

Fighting out of the streets (literally) 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.HARD. HITTING. Devin Hearst is easily one of the stiffest strikers in pro-wrestling, with his kicks being compared to "shotgun blasts". More important, though, is the suddenness and accuracy of his strikes (Devin has won more matches with "non-finisher" moves than with them). Add in his ability to escape submission moves quite well and this makes Hearst extremely dangerous.

ANASTASIA HAYDEN

Nearly all of Anastasia Hayden's life revolved around wrestling; whether it be professional or scholastic. Her claim is that wrestling's been the only thing in her life that she truly excelled at and she's traveled from city to city and country to country in order to prove that. The moment she turned 18, she traveled all to way to Oklahoma to begin her training and since then, that's all she's ever cared about. A less than traditional wrestler, Ana's main focus every time she enters the ring is getting a fight. Of course, her definition of a fight means giving it her all every single time, regardless of the circumstances. She's not interested in winning matches or becoming a champion, that's all secondary to her. When she steps into a ring, all she wants to do is show the world just how good she claims to be.

Devin Hearst versus Anastasia Hayden

HEAVYWEIGHT CLASS J HEAVYWEIGHT

6'1" HEIGHT 5'6"

225LBS   WEIGHT    128LBS

HELLS KITCHEN, NY   HOMETOWN    STEEL, NORTH DAKOTA

The former NJFC Global Champion, the first ever in fact would be the first one out to the stage, soaking in the applause as his theme song played. He made his way down to the ring, focused, engaged and knowing that what was before him was an opportunity. An opportunity to plant himself back on top on a global level. Undefeated within the promotion, the favorite coming into this match, Hearst had it all riding on him but he didn't mind the pressure, he was used to it. Up next was Anastasia Hayden, who was also met with applause, she came out quickly and wasn't here to pose, just to get the match over and done with. Her exterior showed a competitor focused and calm but knowing what was going on inside was impossible. She claimed that the Global title wasn't what she was here for but now she had made it this far, had her opinions changed? An opportunity to go one on one with a best friend for the title, too. Hearst wasn't the only one feeling the pressure if he was feeling any. Could it be an all Four Corners Wrestling final between friends? Or was Devin Hearst going to continue his reign of dominance in Japan?

No handshakes, no head nods, no marks of respect. This wasn't the kind of match for any of that crap. This was a match of warriors, two strikers who tested each other out from the early moments of the match, none of that grappling malarkey - these two engaged in an exchange of forearm strikes, one following the other, and the other, a continuing cycle that wasn't slowing down, but picking up. It was beautiful to see and the fans were quiet, allowing these two to display their art form of strong style before Hearst connecting with a forearm that would send a child into next week, rocking her a little and the fans gasped at the impact. Hayden shook her head and looked at Hearst, a smirk, and invited him to try again. He did, and he knocked her down to the canvas in the process, with Hayden rolling to the outside and holding onto her head, slamming her hands on the apron and kicking the railing, infuriated, annoyed of course.

The Seven Headed Beast watched her, hands on his knee's as Hayden walked around the outside of the ring, the two had their eyes glued on one another. Hayden snarled and jumped up onto the apron, entering the ring slowly and the two would then circle the ring. Thrust forward they went, and quick was Hayden to lock Hearst in a side headlock but Hearst would lift her up, but Hayden would power herself back down, tightening the hold and refusing to let go. Hearst would lift her up again and connect with a back body suplex but Hayden once again kept the hold intact, keeping him in a grounded position. Hearst would then body scissor and Hayden would kip up, the two rising to their feet with Hearst nailing Hayden with a lariat, up again and this time Hayden would meet Hearst with a forearm. Up again with Hayden bent, Hearst would kick her up before delivering a forearm smash that dropped Hayden to her knee's. He took off to the ropes, bouncing back and connected with a massive big boot to Hayden, who hit the canvas hard and held onto her head, he covered - but only enough to get the two.

Smirking, he rose to his feet and watched Hayden squirm. Boots to the face would connect, scraping his boot against her head, a mark of disrespect as Hayden got up by the corner. Irish whip attempt but Hayden reversed it. Hearst hit the corner, Hayden ran toward him - catching her as she attempted a crossbody in the corner. She fought herself out of his grasp, landing and nailing him with a forearm of her own. He smiled, inviting her to take another shot, which she did, again, and again, and again. She took off to the ropes, lariat attempt by Hearst who followed through, staggering a little, and Hayden would leap onto his back, locking him in a sleeper hold submission and Hearst would stretch out to the ropes, desperately trying to get there before being swept under her spell. He was fading away and you could tell, as his movement became slower, his eyes began to close until suddenly, instead of running forward, he ran backward, smashing her back into the padded corner. She let go and was now on the second rope, he stumbled forward and held onto his throat. Turning around and Hayden would perform a diving crossbody on Hearst!

Anastasia rose to her feet and mounted on top of him, several crisp forearms connecting before she climbed the ropes, perform a double foot stomp onto his mid section, pin attempt not substantial enough to put him away, to her dismay. Hearst would roll onto the apron and hold onto his mid section, with Hayden making her way onto the apron too. She picked him up by his hair and turned him around, the fans getting excited as she placed him in a Dragon suplex position. Stomp to the foot, releasing him - Hearst would turn around, headbutt connecting, followed by a belly to belly with Hayden landing on the apron and rolling to the outside with a thud!

The former NJFC Global champion would then pick her up by the outside and gestured that the fans should move out of the way. He picked her up, fireman's carry style, looking to launch her over to the empty seats but she slid down his back. A single leg drop kick would send Hearst flying over the railing and toward the fans, not quite reaching the empty seats. He'd latch onto one of the seats to help himself up whilst Hayden propped herself, latching onto the railing, springboard, flying forearm, both crashing into the empty chairs, the fans around them applauding as the referee stopped his count to check on them both.

Ana would rise first, grabbing him by his hair and bringing him back into the ring, she would try lock him into an armbar but he wouldn't allow his arm to be bent, hooking his hands together to avoid it. She then used a series of elbows to loosen him up but it wouldn't budge. She stopped trying and instead, decided to lay boots onto his body, repeated boots - unaware that these boots were somehow only making him stronger. He rose, each boot making him angrier than the last and she looked at him, what was looking back at her was the devil but that's what she wanted to see. She pushed him, yelling "COME ON YOU FUCKING PUSSY!" to the laughs of the audience, and he spat blood onto the canvas, bleeding from his lip. She pushed him again, open palm strike before taking off to the ropes, a lariat from Hearst. Picking her up he then began a series of moves, the first of which, a snap suplex. He picked her back up, threw her to the corner. Ran toward her, knee to the mid section, hoisted her up sideways on the top rope, rolled backwards, ran toward her for another knee to the mid section, Nakamura style. She dropped down to the canvas but he wasn't finished yet. Picking her up, throwing her to the ropes, knee strike. Cover, only the two!

Crazy from Ana to kick out after those series of attacks and the fans acknowledged this with applause. Hearst would shake his head and wait for Ana to rise to her feet. Once he did, he challenged her to another dual of blows. Telling her that he wanted this. She delivered, the stiffest forearm of the night connecting to Hearst who dropped to his knee, as stunned as the audience. She took off to the ropes, coming back and what Hearst connected with, was very - very, illegal. A stiff right hand punch would connect and Ana would go crumbling to the canvas. He waited for her to be positioned seated and once she was, he ran toward her, she hit the canvas before any connection, kipped herself up afterward, superkick to Hearst, perhaps a tribute to Bryan Williams, following this with a hurricanrana driver "Wolf Down" to Hearst.

The two would lay on the canvas, tired, fatigued, and the referee would check up on both, making sure they're still capable to continue the match. Kneeling, the two would once again enter a dual of exchanges, forearm after forearm as they got to their feet. Hearst hit the ropes, forearm. Ana hit the ropes, forearm. Hearst returned, backfist. Ana returned "She Was Only Seventeen", single leg drop kick - connecting! Cover for the one, the two, but the foot of Hearst was on the ropes, preventing the three! Burying her head in her hands, she wept in disbelief whilst Hearst helped himself up via the ropes by the corner, gradually. She ran toward him, back elbow before running to the ropes, bouncing off of them - with Hearst countering with a quick snapmare! Rising to his feet, he'd taunt and the crowd was in his favor, for once, he was the fan favorite - the hero in the story and he embraced it, for a brief moment. Waiting for Ana to get into a seated position, and once she did - "The Path of Lions" would connect, a running vicious kick to the chest of Ana who hit the canvas instantly!

Covering for the one, and the two, and before he could get the three, the shoulder of Ana burst up, to the surprise of everyone in Osaka, a massive gasp being let out and a look of confusion on the face of Hearst who looked at the referee, believing he had counted the three. Hearst then picked Ana up, full nelson position, looking to finish her with his second move, but she freed herself but slipping away from his grasp. Ana turned him around, pushing him into the ropes with her hands around his waist, roll backward, and to the surprise of everyone in the arena, she would perform a bridging German suplex into a bridge position, for the one - the two, but not quite the three! The two would get up to their feet, lariat attempt by Ana, ducked by Hearst who returned a suplex! To his surprise, Ana rolled back up onto her feet, and the fans were electric as she ran toward him, SHE WAS ONLY SEVENTEEN CONNECTING! ONE! TWO! AND ANASTASIA HAYDEN HAD GOT THE THREE!

There was a moment of silence, a realization of what had just happened, before an explosion of applause echoed through the arena. Hayden and Hearst would remain in their position, grounded, beaten up, wore out, and just battered. Hearst would get on his knee's and so would Hayden, the two looking at one another before looking at either side of them, realizing what they had just created was a moment of magic, something that couldn't be repeated. Hearst had medics tending for him but he pushed them aside, allowing Hayden to have her moment - he rolled to the outside, and stormed off to the back. Streamers would let off into the ring and Hayden would bury her head in her hands, perhaps in disbelief, could this really be happening? She got up, her arm being raised by the official and her name being screamed to the rooftops. 

Coming down the entrance ramp was her opponent for tomorrow night, Bryan Williams - applauding her, her stood at the top of the entrance ramp and saluted. She latched onto the ropes and the two would glare at each other. The best of friends would have to put their friendship aside, all for the chance to be heralded the new, NJFC Global Champion.

Winner: Anastasia Hayden (21:27)

Match Rating: ****3/4