NJFC presents: A New Hope from Korakuen Hall!

[James Peterson]

NEW JAPAN FIGHTING CHAMPIONSHIP

PRESENTS

. . . 

A NEW HOPE
LIVE FROM KORAKUEN HALL ON SUNDAY THE 28TH OF MAY, 2023

Freeview Matches

10 minute time limit

Eimi Matsuda vs. Mei Takayama

 5'5    billed height   5'6
 122lbs   billed weight   139lbs
         Yamaguchi   hometown     Togo, Aichi   

                  

The show starts with the Dragon's Dojo student Mei Takayama standing in the ring, awaiting her opponent a debuting Eimi Matsuda. “Evolution - TIP Mix” by Ayumi Hamasak plays through the speakers and The Wonder Princess emerges through the curtains, posing at the top of the entrance way. She's quick to make her way to the ring and leaves a playful impression as she high-fives a number of the fans in the front row on her way. As Matsuda poses in the centre of the ring, Dragons Dojo student Takayama makes a surprise attack from behind on Matsuda, clubbing her from behind with forearms.

The bell rings and the referee immediately tries to intervene, separating Takayama from Matsuda in the corner. Takayama pushes the referee aside and looks to go back to work on Matsuda, who's already up on her feet and greeting Takayama with a front dropkick to the face. Takayama drops to the canvas, clutching onto her face as Matsuda rushes to the ropes, bouncing off of them before delivering a basement dropkick on Takayama. Matsuda rises to her feet, psyching the crowd as she eyes Takayama slowly ascending to her feet, performing her signature Star Maker (Springboard Tornado DDT), and following this with her finishing submission Air Tight Mk. 2 (Grounded Octopus), which forces Takayama to immediately tap. 

WINNER: EIMI MATSUDA (02:03)

Avalon Vega vs. Yui Watanabe

5'4   billed height   5'3

 155lbs   billed weight   120lbs

         San Antonio, Texas     hometown    Kobe, Japan                 

             

“Black Sheep” - (Brie Larson vocal version) plays through the sound system and outsteps Avalon Vega from the back. She stands on the top of the entrance ramp, flexing her muscles and grinning from ear to ear, before swaggering her way down to the ring. She has a domineering aura about her as she scales the ropes, flexing her muscles once more as she sticks her tongue out, cheekily. “Angelic Angel” by µ's hits the arena! Arena lights turn to rainbow colors and smoke covers on the titantron! 'The Wonderkid', Yui Watanabe appears behind the smoke when the smoke fades away. Yui Watanabe poses in point to the sky and slowly points down to the ring with a smile on her face. Yui claps her hand before running to high five with the fans along the ringside and runs up to the ring by steel steps! Yui Watanabe climbs up to the top rope and points at the fans. Watanabe jumps off of the ropes and analyses Vega, who's grimacing grin grows on her face.

The bell rings and Watanabe races off towards Vega, attempting to shoulder barge her - but Vega doesn't budge. Vega chuckles, inviting Watanabe to try once more. Watanabe bounces off of the ropes and races back towards Vega, launching herself towards her and forcing Vega back a few steps. Vega stays on her feet and nods her head approvingly, applauding Watanabe almost mockingly as she challenges her to do it once more. Watanabe races back towards the ropes, bounces off of them but pauses as she see's Vega run passed her, bouncing off of the ropes and greeting Watanabe with a hard shoulder to the canvas. Vega dusts off her shoulder before going for the cover, but only getting the one. Vega pulls Watanabe up by her hair, cornering her by the turnbuckle where she delivers a series of hard forearm strikes to the head of Watanabe. Vega then Irish whips Watanabe towards the opposite corner before charging towards her, looking for a big splash but Watanabe evades, forward rolling out of the corner. She then runs to the ropes, bounces off of them before ducking under the arm of Vega, getting in behind her - she wraps her arms around her waist and attempts a German suplex.

Vega manages to hold her ground, whilst driving her elbow back into the head of Watanabe, forcing her to release the hold. Vega delivers a forearm strike, which triggers Watanabe into delivering a series of her own, which stuns Vega, as each forearm smash is stiffer than the last. Vega falls to a knee, stunned as the fans get behind Watanabe. Vega realiates with her own powerful stiff forearm strike, that force Watanabe down to a knee. She shakes her head in disapproval, rising back up to her feet, and delivering a barrage of forearms of her own. Watanabe then gets in behind Vega, lifting her up and over for a German suplex, which she bridges into a pin! But Vega kicks out a two. Watanabe gets to her feet and immediately goes to the apron, preparing herself for her signature slingshot lariat Isekai. Vega is groggy as she gets to her feet and Watanabe propels herself back into the ring, managing to land the lariat on Vega, knocking her to the ground. The fans burst into a frenzy of applause as Watanabe roars in elation, before mounting herself on top of Vega, who kicks out at two!

    A staggering Vega gradually rises, as Watanabe runs to the ropes, looking for a basement dropkick and connects. Vega rolls to the outside in order to recover, holding onto her head as Watanabe runs towards the ropes, sliding her legs underneath and kicking Vega, who falls backwards into the railing. Watanabe then begins to ascend onto the top rope, measuring herself as Vega stumbles towards her. Watanabe leaps, only to be caught midair by a sickening discus forearm strike by Vega! Spit flies out of the mouth of Watanabe as she lands cold out on the mat on the outside, and gasps elicit from the crowd... but Vega isn't done yet! She grabs Watanabe by her hair, placing her between her legs, lifting her up before driving her down with a powerbomb onto the ring apron! Vega then rolls her into the ring, contemplates going for the pin, but she stops herself, looking up towards the top rope. She begins to scale them, positioning herself on the top - Watanabe is motionless as Vega begins to stand, calling for the 'Dawn of Ava' (Diving Senton Splash) which she delivers. She hooks her legs for the one, two, three, and the win!

     
WINNER: AVALON VEGA (08:47)

Bryan Williams vs. Shiro Ibushi

6'2  billed height   6'0
 189lbs   billed weight   230lbs
       New York City, New York   hometown   Yotsukaidō, Chiba                 

                  
♫

GINGER, THIS IS SARAH.
PICK UP IF YOU'RE THERE.
I'M AT THIS PLACE ON PICO BOULEVARD CALLED TECH NOIR...

♫

The introduction of the song is sudden, we hear an ominous tone that follows the Terminator line. The keys are dragged out, lingering in the air as the song gets to a slow start. Seconds pass, as a backing track is finally introduced along with the lengthy notes. Eventually, after a minute, the song really kicks into gear. Neon strobe lights flash along with the beat, a shadowy figure keeps in the darkness. Slowly, we see Bryan Williams methodically walk out from the back. He's dressed for a fight, his jacket covering his torso and his baseball bat in hand. It rests comfortably on his shoulder as it keeps its dangerous message. The (animal) mask on his head stays contrasted with the neon lights and the darkness. Bryan keeps his head low, as the song continues to play along.

The fans cheer and applaud at the sight of the former NJFC Global Champion.  The techno beat ramps up more and more, as the lights around him shimmer and dance. The song continues to play, as Bryan stands on the top of the ramp. With his head down, Bryan lets the baseball bat fall from his shoulder, the weight of the bat being pulled towards the ground. His head snaps forward, as he slowly begins to make his way down towards the ring. Williams props his bat up against the ring steps, then climbs the steps to glide through the ropes. The crowd are firmly behind Williams and they're chanting his name as he readies himself in his corner. In the opposite corner, Shiro Ibushi already stands in the ring, as a graduate of the Dragon's Dojo, Ibushi has his eyes set on proving himself against an already established competitor.

The bell rings and the two men meet in the middle of the ring, locking up in a standard collar to elbow tie up. They tussle in position, fighting for strength but it's Ibushi who manages to use his size advantage to gain the upper-hand. In the early passages of the match, he shows some level of control, flaunting his technical prowess by locking Williams in a variety of holds. Williams has an answer for each and every one of them, and despite not being in active competition for a while, looks as though he hasn't missed a beat. He's able to keep up with the tempo set by Ibushi and reverses the situation to be the one in control, locking Ibushi in a standard side-headlock, which he transition into a slam onto the mat, whilst keeping the hold-intact. The two tussle on the ground, dueling in a number of mat based wrestling with Williams getting the upper-hand, forcing Ibushi to cling onto the ropes for the break. Ibushi races back up to his feet but is immediately dropped back to the canvas with a superkick by Williams. Ibushi is dazed and confused, as if he's just been superkicked into another planet, and he staggers as he gets to his feet, walking into the path of Williams - who drops him with his finishing move; The Parkway Driver (the last shot; brainbuster onto knee). Williams covers him for the win!

WINNER: BRYAN WILLIAMS (04:33)

Ryuu Nishimura vs. VLADISLAV

5'10  billed height   6'8
 202lbs   billed weight   350lbs
       Tokyo   hometown   Warsaw, Poland  
              

Already in the ring stands Ryuu Nishimura, bouncing on the balls of his feet in the corner of the ring, patiently awaiting his opponent. His optimistic expression suddenly shifts to one of doubt and anxiety, as the arena lights dim, a hushed silence falls over the crowd, creating an atmosphere thick with anticipation. The haunting melody of "O Fortuna" by Carl Orff begins to resonate throughout the venue, stirring the emotions of those in attendance. From the darkness, a single spotlight illuminates the entrance ramp, revealing a figure shrouded in mystery. The billowing smoke engulfs the stage, creating an ethereal backdrop for the emerging superstar. As the smoke dissipates, VLADISLAV steps forward, his presence commanding and imposing. Clad in black wrestling attire, he exudes an undeniable aura of intensity. The crowd erupts in a symphony of cheers and applause, their excitement palpable. VLADISLAV strides purposefully down the ramp, every step resonating with authority. His focused gaze never wavers, fixed upon the ring that awaits him. The fans are captivated by his magnetic presence, in awe of the raw strength and determination he exudes. With each thunderous footfall, the ground seems to quake beneath his colossal frame. The energy in the arena intensifies as VLADISLAV ascends the steel steps with purpose, climbing through the ropes and entering the squared circle. The crowd's adoration washes over him like a tidal wave, acknowledging his status as a true force to be reckoned with. Nishimura gulps as he looks up at the imposing figure standing opposite him.

The bell rings and Nishimura stands frozen in position. VLADISLAV is cool, calm and composed as he begins to circle the ring. Nishimura impulsively launches himself on the attack, rushing towards VLADISLAV who already has a response, with a big-boot slamming into the face of Nishimura, who collapses onto the canvas. VLADISLAV grabs him by the throat, with the palms of his hands he lifts him high into the sky, before sending him back down to the canvas with a vicious slam. Nishimura arches his back and winces in pain, crawling and reaching for the ropes to escape. VLADISLAV grabs him by his waist, deadlifting him up into the air and delivering a thunderous German suplex, as Nishimura's head crashes on the canvas! Professional Wrestling's Final Boss signals for the end of the contest; paying homage to his father Stanislaw by delivering his signature Hammer of Warsaw (Burning Lariat). VLADISLAV places his palm over the chest of Nishimura for the cover and secures a dominant win!

    

WINNER: VLADISLAV (01:32)

[James Peterson]

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

Korato Shiozaki: ("Ladies and Gentlemen, it is my honor and privilege to welcome you back to a new age... to A New Hope, live from Korakuen Hall for the first time in six years... New Japan Fighting Championship has returned to the professional wrestling world! I am Korato Shiozaki and joining me tonight is my partner in crime, Nakano Gozen. Nakano, it is a pleasure to be back with you, and to be calling a match for NJFC again!")

Nakano Gozen: ("I'll be honest Korato, I never thought you'd be saying those lines again but here we are, ready to call the action for a night that promises to be full of drama, surprises and upsets, undoubtedly.")

Korato Shiozaki: "That's right Nakano, in our pre-view show we already saw some of the new recruits make their debuts, with The Wonder Princess Eimi Matsuda picking up a win to kick off her career here in NJFC. That was followed by an impressive double debut between two competitors who represented the meaning of Fighting Spirit in Avalon Vega and Yui Watanabe. Those two will definitely be in contention to compete in the upcoming Fighting Spirit of Junior's tournament, no doubt - but it was Avalon Vega who picked up the win in that bout. Impressive right, Nakano?")

Nakano Gozen: ("It certainly was, and I know both of them will continue to make quite the impression here in NJFC. And to think right after that match, we witnessed the return of the former NJFC Global Champion, Bryan Williams! What a return it was, making quick work out of Dragon Dojo graduate Shiro Ibushi... Bryan Williams will certainly have his eyes set on some championship gold here, and I can't wait to see him go after some!")

Korato Shiozaki: ("And then there was him... Professional Wrestling's Final Boss, VLADISLAV completely annihilating Ryuu Nishimura. An intimidating display, which was ultimately a statement to the rest of the heavyweight division. The Polish native means business! But ladies and gentlemen, that was just our pre-show. Our night is only just beginning and what a night we've got in store for you. We begin with a tag team contest between two teams who have been confirmed as entrants to next months TAG-TEAM-TROPOLIS from Nippon Budakon, where we will crown new NJFC World Tag Team Champions! Following that match are two other teams who have been confirmed for the tournament as well, with Strike 2 Kill going up against the veteran team Asuka Yoshiro and King Kojima. A bit of a tag team showcase for you all heading into Tag-Team-Tropolis next month. We've even got some six man tag action later on as the team of AKIO, Hijo de la Muerte & Legion face the team of Ken Hideoyoshi, Minoru Tanahashi & Yuji Misawa.")

Nakano Gozen: ("Our tag team division is shaping up to be something special already Korato. Right after that we have the first of our showcase matches! Fighting out of the Junior Heavyweight Fighting Spirit division; Lily Blaise, Lyra Nickols, MYŌJIN and Naoki Ojima! What a four-way that is going to be, four very different competitors fighting for the chance to compete in the main event match for the Global Championship.")

Korato Shiozaki: ... Agreed Nakano, that is a match I can't wait for between four stellar athletes, and that match is going to be followed by our second showcase which is equally tantalizing, Brennan Devlin, Hiro Omigawa, Ricky Valero and Takashi Shinobu battle it out for a spot in the main event! What a list of competitors we have between those two showcase matches! Whatever the outcome, tonight's main event should be one for the ages, without a doubt!" But we can't forget our co-main event. A match that has been in the making for several years now. Mitsuo Shimada, Owen Gonsalves - go to battle yet again, for the fourth time, Owen Gonsalves hopes to tie the series whilst Shimada aims to steer clear in his pursuit to the mountaintop here in NJFC... who will prevail? We find out later tonight! Let's go to the action!")

---

Opening Contest

Tag Team Match

The Renjas vs. Sears by Blood

Renja Ake starts off the match for his team whilst Jessica Sears is in the opposing corner. The two competitors circle the ring before meeting in the center, where they jockey in position before Renja Ake locks Jessica tight in a headlock. Jessica is quick to use her awareness, backing off towards the ropes and launching Ake off of her, who bounces off of the opposite ropes and is dropped to the canvas with a dropkick from Jessica. Sears immediately gets to work on Ake, swinging her leg and kicking him as he tries to get to his feet but struggles. Jessica grabs him by his arm and Irish whips him into the ropes. He rebounds, having to skip past a grounded Jessica. He rebounds off the ropes once more and this time Jessica leapfrogs over him. For a third time, he bounces off the ropes and Jessica finishes the sequence with a dropkick to the head. Ake is reaching out for Buru but Sears ushers him back towards her corner, making the tag to her brother Zach.

The duo immediately combine. Irish whipping Ake into the ropes before greeting him with a double flapjack. Zach grabs Ake by his head and pummels his knee into it, mounting on top of him afterwards and landing several crisp strikes to the forehead. He dismounts, grabbing Ake on his way up as he positions him for a belly to back suplex... and drops him on his head! He covers but only gets the two! Immediately Zach locks Ake tight into an ankle lock, applying pressure to the hold  as Ake wiggles towards the ropes, squealing in agony. Buru tries to get the fans behind them and they're clapping, trying to encourage Ake to reach the ropes, and he eventually does. Zach, however, didn't initially let go of the hold, opting to wait until the official had counted to five before releasing.

The ref tries to have a word with him but Zach isn't interested, shoving him aside in order to get back to work on Ake, who's already up on his feet - trying to get to Buru. Zach grabs him by his arm and goes for the short arm lariat, but Ake ducks underneath it, running towards the Sears corner and knocking Jessica down off apron with a forearm. He turns, rolling under an impending Zach before leaping towards Buru and finally making the tag. Buru slingshots his way into the ring and let's out a roar, which amuses the crowd. He ducks underneath the arm of Sears, lifting him up and dropping him with a back belly suplex. Jessica suddenly rushes into the ring and attempts a superkick on Buru, but he ducks underneath it, returning a superkick of his own. Zach is back up on his feet and Buru sends a superkick his way! Jessica and Zach both remain on their feet, though staggering... Renja Ake rolls himself into the ring and simultaneously the two land superkicks on either, dropping them both to the canvas! Buru then goes for the cover on Zach but only gets the two! Buru and Ake both signal for the end of the match as they align themselves opposite one another as Zach slowly rises to his feet in the center of the ring.

Suddenly, Jessica drops Ake with a running front drop-kick that launches him out of the ring. Buru turns his attention towards Jessica, running towards her but as he is, he's clocked by the right elbow of Zach, as he connects with his signature “Indignation v2” (Discus Elbow Smash). Buru drops to the canvas and Zach looks over at Jessica who's back on the apron. He makes the tag and Jessica scales the top ropes, delivering her finishing move;  “Silver Moon Shockwave” [630 Cannonball Senton]. She covers for the one, two, three for the win! 



WINNERS: SEARS BY BLOOD (11:02)

Korato Shiozaki: ("An impressive showing from Sears by Blood who will be involved in the TAG-TEAM-TROPOLIS tournament in June, makes you think doesn't it, could we be looking at the team that goes on to win the whole thing?")

Nakano Gozen: ("Well they sure made a impression of themselves, Korato. They're an accomplished team, brothers and sisters, who have competed in NJFC before. If there's any team you should really be keeping an eye on, I think it's them!")

---

Match Two
Tag Team Match
Asuka Yoshiro & King Kojima vs. Strike 2 Kill



The action is all over the place before the bell has even rung as the veteran team of Asuka Yoshiro and King Kojima begin a barrage of assaults as Strike 2 Kill made their way to the ring. Yoshiro and Richardson exchange strikes whilst Kojima and Watson do the same, with the first pair being the duo who get themselves in the ring first, as the ref issues for the match to officially start. Yoshiro gets the upper hand on Richardson, using his power and weight advantage to weaken Richardson, clobbering him with vicious forearms.

Clutching onto his hair, Yoshiro goes to swing Richardson towards the ropes but he reverses it, and as Yoshiro bounces back, he has no response for the leaping knee that crashes into his jaw, catching him off-guard. Richardson immediately heads to the ropes, bouncing off of them and delivers a kick to the chest of a seated Yoshiro, who lays flat on the canvas. Richardson doesn't go for the pin however, instead he makes the tag to Watson as Yoshiro crawls towards his corner.

Watson allows Yoshiro to make the tag and King Kojima is in the ring, as applauds ring through Korakuen Hall from the fans, as he points towards Watson and invites him to continue their exchange of strikes. Watson accepts and the two go on a series of strikes, varying from forearms, elbows to open palm strikes... Watson gains the upper hand, increasing the tempo and power of his strikes as he forces Kojima down to a knee. Kojima has hands up in defence, but he's defenseless as Watson finishes him with a bicycle knee to the jaw! Watson makes the tag to Richardson and the two combine to delivering their finishing move; "Strike Out!", a Catapult by Watson into a Superkick by Richardson + Double Foot Stomp by Richardson! He covers Kojima for the win!

REPLAY BOARD


WINNERS: STRIKE 2 KILL (06:22)

Korato Shiozaki: ("Those two boys are scoundrels but they do sure know how to strike. Strike to Kill with the win in their NJFC debuts against the veteran team of Asuka Yoshiro and King Kojima. I'm thinking maybe the two NJFC originals may have underestimated their opponents.")

Nakano Gozen: ("That's the thing Korato, in NJFC you can't underestimate anybody, original or not. Strike 2 Kill have competed in Japan over in JROK and have won championships across the globe in a number of promotions. Another team who are entering into TAG-TEAM-TROPOLIS with a win under their belts already, Korato. I think Strike 2 Kill are going to be an interesting prospect in this tournament, and here in NJFC!")

[James Peterson]

Showcase Match

Fighting Spirit 4 Way - NJFC Global Championship Qualifier

 Lily Blaise vs. Lyra Nickols vs. MYŌJIN vs. Naoki Ojima 

All the competitors make their individual entrances to the ring, with MYŌJIN and Naoki Ojima particularly receiving warm responses from the Korakuen Hall fans. This, however, acts as a trigger for both Lyra Nickols and Lily Blaise to target the two native stars, with Lyra after MYŌJIN and Blase taking care of Ojima. The gaijin receieve boo's as they hammer down on their opponents, Lyra connects with several crisp forearm strikes to the head of MYŌ before taking off to the ropes and bouncing off of them, taking MYŌ down to the canvas with a hard shoulder barge. She smirks arrogantly, brushing off her shoulder as she looks down at the grounded MYŌ. She takes off to the ropes once more, as MYŌ scoots across the canvas, attempting to trip her over, but she evades, skipping him. Lyra rebounds off the ropes and MYŌ is back up on their feet, leapfrogging over her. For a third time she returns and MYŌ delivers a spinning back kick to the mid-section. She doubles over, clutching onto her stomach as MYŌ performs Tilt-A-Whirl Arm Drag, with Lyra rolling to the outside afterwards.

Meanwhile, Blaise has had the upper hand over Naoki on the outside, sending him into the guardrail on three occasions. She walks around the outside of the ring, her arms out wide as she heralds herself as "Pro Wrestling Glamour" to the fans, receiving boos as she mocks Naoki. MYŌ turns their attention towards Blaise on the outside, running towards the ropes before propelling themselves over with a Topé Estrella (Over The Top Rope Somersault Topé) on Blaise! They get to their feet, briefly soaking in the applause from the fans. Suddenly, they're caught by the Snake Bit (Stiff Rolling Elbow) from Lyra out of nowhere, collapsing him.

Lyra smirks, yelling to the fans that she's "The Devil’s Favourite Advocate!". Boo's suddenly transition to cheers as Naoki Ojima bursts back onto the scene, greeting Lyra with a combination of strikes before throwing her into the guardrail. He rolls her into the ring before leaping onto the apron himself, scaling the ropes whilst Lyra gradually made it to her feet. As Naoki is about to jump off, Lily stops him from doing so, grabbing onto his leg, which allows an opening for Lyra to uppercut Naoki. He's unstable and now Lyra has him in a position for a superplex off the top rope... which she delivers, with Naoki landing hard on the canvas! Lyra goes for the cover but can only get a two. She rises, looking to bring Naoki up with her, but she's suddenly taken down by a float over backslide pin attempt from Lily! One, two - but Lyra kicks out!

They're both back up on themselves and gaze at each other, giving the other the devil's eyes whilst exchanging some words. Lyra delivers three stiff forearm strikes that force Lily down to a knee. As she takes off to the ropes, Lily follows her, landing a forearm of her own. Her Irish whips Lyra, but she reverses and when Lily returns, she ducks underneath the lariat attempt from Lyra, hooking her arms around her as she goes for the German, but Lyra holds her ground. She forces her elbows back into the side of Lily's head and she releases the hold. Lyra then takes off to the ropes, rebounding and going for her lariat once more. But Lily ducks again. In behind Lyra, she lifts her up and over for a snap German suplex, bridging into the pin for the one, two, but Lyra kicks out, eliciting applause from the fans. They're not over with the sequence yet though, as both competitors are back up on their feet. Lyra leans against the padded corner as Lily runs over toward her - Lyra lifts her up and onto the canvas, blocking her strike attempt before delivering a sickening headbutt to Lily, who falls to the outside. MYŌ is on the opposite apron, preparing themselves as Lyra turns back, MYŌ springboards onto the top rope - landing a missile dropkick on Lyra, who rolls to the outside.

MYŌ turns and Naoki is looking right at him and suddenly Korakuen Hall bursts into a frenzy of applause, as the two natives finally get their chance to battle it out. They pace around the ring, gradually getting closer and lock up with a collar to elbow tie up. Naoki wins the duel, locking MYŌ into a side headlock, before slamming them down on the canvas, keeping the hold intact. MYŌ uses their legs to wrap around Naoki's body and he has to kip up, breaking the hold as the two race back to their feet. This time it's MYŌ who drops Naoki with a Harai Goshi that they transition into a one, two - Ojima kicks out! They're back up and simultaneously go for a dropkick. Back up again, and MYŌ slides underneath his arm, delivering a Right-Legged Roundhouse, Left-Legged Roundhouse, Kakato Otoshi, followed by another Right-Legged Roundhouse! Ojima falls into a seated position and MYŌ charges to the ropes, bouncing back and delivering a harsh soccer kick to the back of Naoki! Naoki chuckles getting to his feet and nodding his head at MYŌ, as if to say is that all you got? MYŌ charges at Naoki, who's quick to take them down with a drop toe hold. Naoki straightens MYŌ up, rebounding off to the ropes and delivering a soccer kick of his own. MYŌ runs their fingers through their hair, not impressed as they rise. 

They lock horns, with Naoki using his strength to power MYŌ into the padded corner. The referee counts down as Ojima gradually releases hold of them before delivering a backhand chop to the chest of MYŌ.

The slap reverberates through Korakuen Hall and MYŌ suddenly changes their demeanor, connecting with a flurry of open palm strikes all over Naoki's body. They snap mare Naoki into a seated position before taking off to the ropes, returning and sending their foot through the arm of Naoki! He winces, pounding the canvas with both hands as he gets to his feet, pushing MYŌ back with his head. The fans applaud as the two men suddenly engage in a quick exchange of strikes. Naoki lands a devastating forearm and follows it with a spinning back kick. He charges towards the ropes, rebounds only to get met with a Gacrux (Tilt-A-Whirl Octopus Stretch)! MYŌ has Ojima in tight!

But before they can make anything of it, in comes Lily Blaise, breaking the hold. She grabs MYŌ, landing a Satellite DDT which she transitions into a pin! One, two - NO! Lyra breaks up the pin, hauling Blaise off of MYŌ. Lily fights back, landing a heel kick on Lyra! She charges towards the ropes, rebounds into a headbutt from Lyra! She then delivers a Saito Suplex to complete her signature "10 Year Curse"!

One... two, Naoki breaks itup! He deadlifts Lyra up and over, Bridging German suplex! One, two, NO! MYŌ with a double foot stomp to break the cover! Naoki gradually rises, using the ropes by the corner of the ring... "Oneirataxia" (Bicycle Knee) connects!

MYŌ quickly scales the ropes, before flying off to land Falling From Heaven (Corkscrew 450° Splash)!

They cover for the one, two, THREE for the win!

REPLAY BOARD


WINNER: MYŌJIN (16:54)

Korato Shiozaki: ("Wow... wow, wow... what a match! A showcase that truly delivered under its name and it's MYŌJIN who will progress into tonights NJFC Global Championship match main event! What a performance from each one of those competitors out there, but it's MYŌJIN, “The Shining Star” “Starchild” who hopes to become NJFC new hope tonight, by becoming NJFC Global Champion! You've gotta give it to Lily, Lyra and Naoki, they all showed out tonight.")

Nakano Gozen: ("They really did, Korato, and they can all be proud of what they displayed out there tonight, but of course, they'll be disappointed that they couldn't get the job done. MYŌJIN advances and already I can feel their aura, Korato, and you can feel the energy of the crowd when they see them perform, it's incredible. Who will join them later tonight from the heavyweight showcase? Let's find out!")

Showcase Match

Heavyweight 4 Way - NJFC Global Championship Qualifier

 Brennan Devlin vs. Hiro Omigawa vs. Ricky Valero vs. Takashi Shinobu 

All four men circle the ring, eying each other up as they do, trying to measure the best route to success in the early passages of the match. It's Ricky Valero who makes the first move. The returning NJFC star goes on the assault to fellow NJFC returning competitor, The Golden Ace, Takashi Shinobu. He kicks him in the midsection, cornering him by the turnbuckle and stomps him down repeatedly. Hiro and Devlin are in an exchange of strikes themselves, with Hiro gaining the upper-hand, connecting with several fist punches. He follows this up with a European uppercut and immediately Devlin drops to the canvas and rolls to the outside, walking over to his girls who offer him counsel as he leans back against the railing, calling for a time-out as he runs his fingers through his hair.

Back in the ring, Hiro turns his attention to Valero, who's been beating down Shinobu in the ring's corner for a while now. Hiro turns Valero around and delivers several crisp, fist strikes, rocking him with an Uppercut. Valero responds with a knee to the mid-section, doubling over the Omigawa before taking him down with a snap DDT. Valero is about to go for the quick pin, but Takashi is there, turning him around to return the strikes from earlier. He delivers one after the other in quick succession, shoot kick, open palm, spinning back-kick to the midsection. He heads off to the ropes, bouncing off of them, only to be dragged to the outside of the ring by Brannan Devlin!

The fans jeer as Devlin grabs Shinobu and swings him hard into the barricade, cackling afterwards as he dusts his hands off and walks into the arms of his ladies, who plant him a kiss on either cheek. Takashi leans against the railing, trying to hold himself up as Devlin comes storming towards him - connecting with a hip attack into the barricade! He parades around the outside of the ring, as his girls shout towards him; "The Face of Wrestling", and Devlin bows, taunting Shinobu. 

Meanwhile, in the ring, Valero takes Hiro down with a Russian Leg Sweep, following this up with a springboard legdrop. He goes for the pin but in comes Devlin to break up the attempt, kicking Valero's head. He kicks him again, targeting the head and Valero rises, pushes Brennan backwards into the ropes. He bounces off, ducking underneath the arm of Valero before performing a Pele kick! Valero staggers backwards, dropping to a knee as Brennan delivers a Slingblade to take him down completely.

He goes for the cover but back from the outside of the ring is Takashi Shinobu, and he means vengeance. Valero rolls to the outside whilst Takashi is grabbing Devlin by his hair. He delivers a flurry of stiff forearm strikes as he leads Devlin towards the ropes, Irish whipping him into the opposite set. Brennan bounces back and has no response to the Pitch Perfect Dropkick Shinobu lands! He kips up afterwards, stretching his arms outside as the fans applaud and cheer him.

REPLAY BOARD

They cheer even louder as Omigawa joins him and the two men assess their situation, looking to the outside of the ring where both Valero and Devlin are recovering. Shinobu charges towards Devlin, flying over the top rope and landing a Tope Con Hilo! Omigawa targets Valero, stepping out onto the apron and flying off to connect with a diving lariat!

The duo immediately roll both men back into the ring, receiving applause from the fans once again. The four men are on their feet and exchanging strikes, testing each other's resolve. Omigawa & Valero, whilst Shinobu and Brennan scrap. Valero has Omigawa in a position for a Belly to belly suplex, but Omigawa elbows his way out of it! He connects with an enziguri, following this up quickly with a brainbuster into a one, two, kickout! Simultaneously, Brennan had the upper-hand on Shinobu, dropping him with a snap mare takedown before attempting a boot to the face. But Shinobu evaded, rolling him up for the one, two - kickout! Valero is back up, though groggy, as he stumbles into; EXODUS (High Impact Swinging Back Elbow), that knocks him flat on canvas!

Meanwhile Shinobu is about to hit Brennan with his signature discuss lariat, but Brennan evades, side stepping him before grabbing his head, delivering Face 2 Face (repeated headbutts) on Shinobu! Omigawa prepares himself for The Revelation (Bridging German suplex), positioning himself behind Valero...

Shinobu spirals backwards after the twelfth headbutt from Brennan, who staggers a little himself. Shinobu crashes into Valero which forces Omigawa to break the hold. Valero grabs a hold of Shinobu, hitting him with his signature Thy Will Be Done - Ushigoroshi.

Omigawa comes in from behind him, The Revelation connects, bridging into a one, two, three - NO! 

Brennan Devlin stomps on the stomach of Omigawa!

Omigawa clutches onto it as he gradually rises, as Devlin comes charging in looking for FaceTime - Omigawa evades, and rolls Devlin up!

One, two, thr - NO!

Brennan Devlin kicks out!

Omigawa quickly rises to his feet and Devlin is about to get hit with The Revelation! But in comes Takashi Shinobu from behind, rolling Omigawa up, One, two, Valero drags off Takashi Shinobu toward him - The Franchise Tag connects! (Cobra Clutch Suplex). Omigawa tries to go back over but his legs are being grabbed at by Brennan Devlin's girls, Elisha and Keana! They drag him out of the ring and Omigawa is asking them what they're playing at. Elisha pleads with him, seemingly trying to seduce him as Keana sneaks up behind him, low blow! As all the commotion on the outside is occuring, Ricky goes for the pin but Brennan Devlin is there, stomp to the back... Ricky rises, as Devlin bounces off of the ropes, performing his finishing FaceTime curb stomp for the one, two, three!

REPLAY BOARD




WINNER: BRENNAN DEVLIN (14:28)

Korato Shiozaki: ("The Face of Wrestling, Brennan Devlin advances to our main event... with his girls getting involved there and stopping Hiro Omigawa from being able to do anything about that finish! His methods may be questionable, but you can't doubt the talent and prestige of the "The Face of Wrestling"! You've gotta feel for Hiro Omigawa but Brennan Devlin is the man who's going to be in the main event. Could he be the new hope that this company is after? He said so in his press conference and I certainly think that he and MYŌJIN have stern cases. What a main event that promises to be. They've been going at it each other on social media all week leading up tonight and now, they have the chance to settle their differences for the NJFC Global Championship. Nakano, I won't lie to you, I cannot call this one, it's too close!")

Nakano Gozen: ("Two competitors who really are at the top of their game, both world renowned wrestlers fighting for the Global Championship, it sounds fitting to me, Korato. I think everyone in Korakuen Hall will root for the native MYŌJIN tonight, and they'll certainly have the home advantage. Brennan Devlin will hope to ruin the party and become the New Hope of NJFC. It's gonna be an interesting one Korato, and we've got two more matches to come before it!")

[James Peterson]

Match Five
Trio's Tag Match
AKIO, Hijo de la Muerte & Legion vs. Ken Hideoyoshi, Minoru Tanahashi & Yuji Misawa

AKIO and Ken Hideoyoshi start off the action in the ring. Both NJFC originals, it's a student vs teacher affair as the student AKIO paces around the ring, analysing his former mentor in Hideyoshi, who's offering a hand to AKIO. The masked AKIO slowly approaches him, slapping his hand away to the disgust of the fans, who boo AKIO as he slaps Ken across the face. AKIO taunts Ken, asking him to return with one of his own, and as Ken goes to slap him, AKIO ducks underneath his hand, delivering a punch to the mid-section. He follows this with a combination of strikes culminating with a Tilt-a-whirl head scissors which he transitions into a spinning takedown. AKIO covers but just the one. He makes the tag out to Hijo, who continues the hard where AKIO left off, a combination of strikes land; a Spinning heel kick, standing dropkick, and a dropkick all within seconds! Hijo tags out to Legion, who continues to onslaught with a flurry of strikes, forearm, shoot kick to the thigh, ripcord lariat to the kneeling Hideyoshi! She tags back out to Hijo as Hideyoshi scurries across the canvas.

Tanahashi is able to make the tag, receiving a huge pop as he enters the ring. Muerte charges toward him. Tanahashi is able to evade, a drop-toe hold takes Hijo's down as Tanahashi kips back up to his feet. AKIO is back in the ring but Tanahashi greets him with a vicious elbow! Legion slingshots her way over, attempting a super-kick on Tanahashi but he ducks under it, and connects with one of his own! He turns his attention to Hijo, who's recovered, hitting a Springboard Back Elbow on Tanahashi! Tanahashi stumbles back into the path of his corner, Misawa tags in! He rushes into the action, ducking underneath Hijo's strike attempt and performing a springboard DDT on him. Misawa then goes after AKIO who's incoming into the ring, dropping him with a basement dropkick. He turns, not realizing Legion has made the tag to Hijo, who hits Misawa with his finishing "Death Blow" (Ki Krusher 99) for the one, two, three!

WINNERS: AKIO, HIJO DE LA MUERTE & LEGION (07:18)

Korato Shiozaki: ("The makeshift team of AKIO, Hijo De La Muerte and Legion pick up the win. Impressive showing from the team but I'm sure Yuji Misawa, Ken Hideyoshi and Minoru Tanahashi will be looking to bounce back. But now, it's time for our co-main event. It's time for Mitsuo Shimada and Owen Gonsalves 4! Two men who have had quite the history stemming here in Japan and branching elsewhere. The last time these two men in an NJFC ring, Shimada triumphed over Gonsalves and became the NJFC Global Champion. It's been a long time since then and both men have grown tremendously as athletes.")

Nakano Gozen: ("They well and truly have and what surprises me most is that neither of these are in the Global Championship picture... perhaps, I mean, maybe perhaps, they have their eyes set on the World Heavyweight title? I mean, you've gotta think it. With the quality and prestige that they both bring, I'm sure this match could have huge implications for the world title scene later down the line!")

MAI KADO: ("The following contest is scheduled for one fall, and is your semi main event! Introducing first...")

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 jack, he analyses 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.

MAI KADO:  ("From Melbourne, Australia, weighing in a two hundred and five pounds... INDESTRUCTIBLE, OWEN GONSALVES!")

As the opening of Stardust by Kazsin plays through the speakers, the arena falls to silence as the lights also dim down. Strobe lights of red and gold suddenly shine towards the stage and emerging from the back is "The Savior, The Myth, And The Legend" Mitsuo Shimada, who has a stern look on his face as he stands on the top of the entrance ramp. He's all suited up, with his hands tied behind his back, he looks down and closes his eyes.

MAI KADO: ("And his opponent...")

Opening his eyes, he looks back up as Kado finishes her sentence and within his eyes you can see the evil beneath. He smirks as he makes his way down the entrance ramp, jeers coming from all over the arena, but he doesn't care. He's blocked out the noise of the crowd and his sole concentration is now on the ring. Reaching the edge of the ramp, he pauses once more and looks inside the ring, nodding his head before walking around the edge of the ring and mocking the surrounding fans. He then jumps onto the apron and latches onto the ropes, inhaling, exhaling, before entering the ring. He takes off his pants from the bottom, extinguishing them before taking his blazer and shirt off, throwing that out of the ring too, with staff on the go to collect those items.

MAI KADO: ("Weighing in a two hundred and twenty-five pounds.. The Man, The Myth and The Legend, MITSUO SHIMADA!")

Semi Main Event
Heavyweight Division: Singles

Mitsuo Shimada vs. Owen Gonsalves

The bell rings and Korakuen Hall is bursts into an energetic applause, some members of the crowd chant for Gonsalves, whilst other chant for Shimada. Both men bask in the moment, looking at one another before looking out towards the fans. Gonsalves nods his head in appreciation, whilst Shimada smirks, shrugging his shoulders as he begins to survey around the ring. Gonsalves follows and the two men approach each other, meeting in the center of the ring, they look as though they're about to grapple, but before they can, Shimada evades. He rolls to the outside of the ring, walking around the outside and looking down at his imaginary watch, telling the fans that he's gonna wrestle on his time. Gonsalves rolls to the outside and follows Shimada, who rolls back into the ring. Owen follows and Shimada immediately puts the boots on Gonsalves, consecutive stomps to the back, followed by clubs with his forearm. He picks Gonsalves up by his hair, levels him in the corner of the ring, and Irish whips him out of the corner. Shimada goes for the big splash in the opposite corner but Gonsalves evades, and takes off to the ropes. He springboards off of them, catching Shimada with a "Sky Uppercut" (Springboard Corkscrew European Uppercut)! Shimada immediately rolls to the outside afterward, whilst Gonsalves quickly gets to his feet, psyching the fans up as he looks out to Shimada. He runs towards the ropes, propelling himself over for a Tope Con Hilo on Shimada!

Gonsalves gets to his feet and has no time to admire the applauds from the fans, opting to continue his barrage on onslaughts as he clobbers Shimada with forearm strikes to the head. Bringing him back up to his feet, he throws him into the guard railing before running over, looking for a big boot. But Shimada side steps him, getting in behind and dropping him with a Snap German suplex on the outside! He gets to his feet, smirking as he dusts himself off and chuckles.

The Gatekeeper rips off a bit of the matted padding on the outside, eliciting quite the response from the crowd as they try to warn Gonsalves. Shimada grabs Gonsalves by his hair, looking to deliver a suplex onto the bear floor, but Gonsalves hooks his leg round his, blocking the move. He delivers a few strikes to his abdomen and Shimada stumbles back, clutching onto it. Gonsalves attempts his signature "Soul-Stealing 7-Star Strike" (bicycle knee), but Shimada evades, gets in behind him once more - snap German suplex onto the floor!

Korato Shiozaki: ("German Suplex onto the floor! That might've just broken Owen's neck! Dear God, Lord have mercy... Mitsuo Shimada clearly prepared to do whatever it takes here in the early passages of this match!"

Nakano Gozen: ("This one has started hot, Korato! You can tell that these two have been wanting to get their hands on each other for quite some time, and they're letting it all out there, here in Korakuen Hall!") 

The fans gasp, losing their shit, as Shimada licks his lips, shrugging his shoulders before getting to his feet. The referee is urging Shimada to move the action back into the ring, and Shimada shrugs at him, asking him why he's only just mentioning it. He then grabs Gonsalves, rolling him into the ring before scaling the ropes himself. He flies off, looking for an elbow drop and connecting! He covers. 

One... 

Immediately, Owen kicks out, eliciting applause from the fans.

Shimada groans, deciding to inflict further damage by mounting on top Owen, delivering several strikes for good measure. The referee urges Shimada to get off, pulling him back but Shimada shoves him back further, continuing to lay into Owen. Once again the referee is pulling Shimada back, warning him that he'll disqualify him if he continues this way. Shimada holds his arms up, nodding his head towards the ref before turning back to face Owen. "Indestructible" Gonsalves is already back up and he send a spit in the direction of Shimada, catching him off-guard as the spit lands on the face! The fans 'ooo' as Gonsalves then charges towards Shimada, dropping him with a European uppercut. He mounts on top of him, repaying the earlier beatdown with one of his own! Shimada manages to scurry his way out of the ring, rolling under the bottom rope. Gonsalves gets to his feet, embracing Korakuen Hall as the fans applaud him for his efforts. Shimada looks on from the outside as Owen invites him into the ring, gesturing at him. 

After walking around the outside of the ring and contemplating, Shimada eventually rolls himself back into the ring, only to roll himself back out another side. He shakes his head, reminding the fans that he'll wrestle on his time, not Owen's. Owen has his hands on his waist, shaking his head with a grin on his face as Shimada glares at him. He rolls himself back in and slowly gets to his feet and the two men quickly begin to circle the ring. Gonsalves gets lower and lower, attempting to catch Shimada by his legs but Shimada evades his attempt. He matches him, getting to a low stances as the two men throw their arms out towards each other, engaging in a knuckle lock from a low stationary position. They fight their ways back up and Shimada quickly locks Gonsalves into a side headlock, tightening the hold afterward. Gonsalves is quick to take Shimada off to the ropes, but Shimada brings him back to the center of the ring, hold-intact and takes him down to the canvas with a slam. Owen wraps his legs around his body, and Shimada has to kip up to break the hold. They race up and Owen takes Shimada down with an arm-drag takedown transitioned into an armbar. He positions the arm of Shimada, pointing it upwards and looks to stomp down on it - but Shimada rolls out of the way.

They lock up in the center, engaging in a standard collar to elbow tie up and jockeying in position. Shimada uses his brute strength to overpower Gonsalves, quickly grabbing onto his arm and wringing round, before pulling down on it, his hand firmly gripped on Owen's wrist. Owen winces, but is quick to respond, rolling forward, then back - kipping up, before breaking the hold, with a spin and a slap to the hand of Shimada, grabbing one of his finger as he does! The fans know what's coming and so does Shimada, as Owen manipulates the fingers of Shimada, forcing him to a knee as he bends it backwards and forwards. He places his hand on the canvas, before stomping down on it with malicious intent. He grabs the same arm, bending it backwards before stomping on it too! Shimada winces, rolling round the ring in agony as Owen covers, shoving his arm into Shimada's face... 

One... 

Shimada kicks out, and immediately gets to his knees, spitting into the face of Gonsalves! 

Korato Shiozaki: ("Not these two having a spit off! Is this what it's come to?!")

Nakano Gozen: ("There's a lot of history there so, I guess it make sit okay?")

Shimada holds his middle finger up at Gonsalves, only for him to manipulate once again, snapping it backwards! Owen then grabs Shimada, bringing him back up to his feet for an Irish whip into the ropes. Shimada bounces off, skipping Gonsalves. He rebounds off the opposite, having to duck under a leapfrogging Gonsalves. Shimada bounces off of the ropes once more, but launches himself forward as he does so, catching Owen off-guard as he connects with his flying forearm smash!

REPLAY BOARD

Shimada quickly gets to his feet, bringing Gonsalves back up with him. He delivers a rolling fireman's carry slam followed by a moonsault. He gets to his feet, quickly running to the ropes and delivering a basement dropkick on Gonsalves. Shimada goes for the cover... 

One...

Immediately Owen kicks out! 

Shimada is pissed. He looks over toward Owen, who has a grin on his face. The two men collide heads

He pulls him back up to his feet and leans him against the corner, where he greets him with a backhanded chop that sends shock-waves reverberating through Korakuen Hall. Owen grins, saying "Like old times, eh? Is that all you got, motherfucker!" and Shimada delivers another stiff chop to the chest. Owen moves across the ring to the corner nearby but Shimada stalks him. Turns him around, leans him against the corner - backhanded chop, once again, landing it sweetly. Gonsalves walks over to the center of the ring, clutching onto his chest. Shimada turns him around, open palm strike to the face. He then says "you remember this? C'mon, I thought you were indestructible!", another open palm strike connecting. Owen staggers, but brings himself back to connect with an open palm of his own.

And now the two men are at it, exchanging open palm strikes in quick success with the fans shouting along with the two competitors in the ring. Gonsalves wins the dual of strikes, connecting with a forearm strikes that sends spit flying out of the mouth of Shimada. Gonsalves then takes off to the ropes, bouncing off of them but now Shimada is running in his direction and past him, coming off of the ropes with Owen quickly having to improvise - he rolls forwards, underneath the extended arm of Shimada, back up on his feet, he turns around to block a strike attempt from Shimada. He throws a strike out of his own, Shimada blocks it - shoot kick to the thigh. Gonsalves staggers, Shimada heads to the ropes, bounces back - Gonsalves is up, brings him down with a leaping lariat. Shimada gets back up to his feet in a hurry, Gonsalves ducks under the strike attempt by Shimada, full nelson, "Paroxysm" connects! (Snap dragon suplex).

Korato Shiozaki: ("It is broken neck city out there tonight, what a snap dragon from Owen! But Shimada has the ring awareness to get himself out of there quickly.")

Nakano Gozen: ("Both of these men are going to be waking up with a lot of bruises tomorrow, they're putting each other through hell here tonight.")

Owen looks to cover Shimada but the Man, Myth and Legend has already rolled to the outside of the ring, grabbing onto the back of his neck. Owen rolls to the outside, looking toward the uncovered floor that Shimada dropped him on earlier. He then looks at Shimada, a grin stretching across his mouth as he does. Gonsalves grabs a table, placing it on the exposed floor before maneuvering Shimada towards it! Shimada blocks him, clubbing him round the jaw! Gonsalves staggers, but returns with a boot to the face! Shimada staggers, but is back with a vicious elbow! Gonsalves yells, returning with a Europeans uppercut. He tries to lock him in for the Paroxysm but Shimada delivers a spinning backfist, and a kick to the mid-section. He rolls Owen up onto the table and joins him, positioning him in-between his legs. He's looking for a powerbomb but Owen isn't budging. He clubs him round his back, before lifting him up - but Owen evades, striking and sliding in behind him - PAROXYSM ... no, Shimada doesn't go over, using his strength to keep ground. He drives his elbow backwards, breaking the hold and then pokes Owen in the eyes. Owen falls to his knees, rubbing at his eyes as Shimada positions him for....

Korato Shiozaki: ("The Destiny Call (powerbomb) through the table and onto the exposed floor! Mitsuo Shimada may have just broken Owen Gonsalves in half!")

Nakano Gozen: ("We're gonna need a medic out here, for both of them!")

Everyone in Korakuen Hall cringes. Shimada and Owen both lie lifeless on the floor, with a group of young Dragon students surrounding them. Shimada is the first to make movements, and for the first time in this match, the referee is beginning a count! Shimada grabs onto the apron, looking over toward Owen and laughing as he rolls himself back into the ring, lying on the canvas and striking his signature pose, his finger pointed toward the ceiling.

The referee reaches the count of thirteen and Owen still isn't responding, as the fans encourage him to get to his feet. He grabs onto the railing as the referee reaches sixteen, wiping the sweat from his face as he suddenly realizes, this could end in a count-out!

The referee is at nineteen, and Owen bursts back into the ring, rolling underneath the rope and lying across the canvas. Shimada gazes at him, half annoyed, half amazed and Gonsalves mimics Shimada's pose on the canvas, eliciting applause from the fans. Mitsuo Shimada is less receptive, spitting in the face of Gonsalves, who spits back at him. The two men continue to brawl exchanging strikes in quick succession. Shimada lands an stiff elbow and forearm strike before heading to the ropes. Gonsalves follows, greeting him with a European Uppercut. Gonsalves then takes to the ropes and as he returns, he ducks under the superkick attempt from Shimada, rolling him up for a pin!

ONE... 

TWO... 

Shimada kicks out!

They're both back up on their feet and Shimada ducks underneath Owen's lariat attempt, rebounding off the ropes and looking for another flying forearm smash... but Owen counters, bicycle knee!

Korato Shiozaki: ("OWEN WITH  THE "Soul-Stealing 7-Star Strike!")

REPLAY BOARD

Owen positions Shimada for "The Final Gambit"  (Double Underhook Piledriver), and hits it! He covers...

ONE... 

TWO... 

THREE!

WINNER: OWEN GONSALVES (23:11)

The sound of an organ begins to play throughout the entirety of the arena. It seems to be giving people in attendance that eerie, big final boss feel. As if the seeds have been planted directly into the ground and the root of all evil is sprouting into a large tree, dropping it’s fruit to corrupt as many souls as physically possible.

Then it suddenly just stops.

Theres a bit of silence in the venue for a few minutes until the lights cut off. We then have our attention turned toward the large tron by the entrance stage. All we see is smoke before we begin to hear faint laughter throughout the dark scenery as the camera takes us on a journey through darkness and into the blinding light of the star that is The Mad King, Michael Kelly. Dressed in a long pink fur coat with a sheer see-through top and some larger than life shades, the large athletic man is seen sitting in this throne of a chair. Flanked to his right is the speaker of The Mad King’s Roundtable, the cultivator of violence, one of the most brilliant minds in the entire business, Tony Russo. Tony lays a hand over MK’s shoulder as a means of allowing for him to calm down.

MICHAEL KELLY: "As this year goes on, YOUR Mad King finds himself repeatedly having to come back here. Now for many of you, I’d assume that this was a treat and you’re very excited to see the best professional wrestler in the world once again grace this country with his mere presence. It’s fairly understandable that you all are on your toes. For me? It’s starting to become an annoyance. So much so that I’ve forgotten that I was planning on speaking to you all in your native tongue. In a way, this seems right though."

There’s a bit of erratic movement going on with The Mad King; as if he’s scrambling for something. Tony Russo quickly solves his problems when he’s handed his King’s Road Mad King Championship. Michael sits those 10 lbs of gold on his lap, ala the champions of the 1980s. To the left of the star is a tall, tan being of a woman by the name of Liberty Hightower. The protege to MK is no slouch herself, making a claim to a multitude of titles that span across the globe in such a small amount of time. A star in her own right, loyal to the throne.

MICHAEL KELLY: "So this seems to beg the question: Why exactly ARE you here, my King? It seems like there would be a much harder answer than there actually is. So, before you all jump to conclusions, hop on your keyboards and begin to speculate, allow me to spoil the news. No. I’m not exactly here for New Japan Fighting Championship gold; though I’m sure we all know that I’ll be knocking on that door much sooner than later. No, I’m here for one reason and one reason only."

There’s a bit of a pause before a long sigh. Sitting up straight, MK reaches up and rips those comically large shades off of his face.

MICHAEL KELLY: "Mitsuo Shimada."

We can actually feel the shock filling up the room. Michael Kelly actually calling out a person despite being known not to care about who his opponent is. As long as the check has been cleared before he walks into the venue, he’s perfectly fine. This felt much different than many of his other promos.

MICHAEL KELLY: 島田さん、あなたは地球上で私が実際に座って遠くから見守る唯一の男性の一人です。しかし、それは賞賛からではなく、憎しみからでした。手が空いたとき、あなたがチャンピオンシップを開催しているのを見ました。ここ日本だけでなく、世界中であなたの成功を見てきました。...そして、それは私を怒らせるだけでした。

("Mr. Shimada, you are one of the only men on earth that I actually sit and watch from afar. But it wasn't out of admiration, it was out of hate. When my hands were free, I saw you holding a championship. I have seen your success not only here in Japan, but all over the world. ...and it only pissed me off.")

His smugness could choke the air out of someone right now. With that patented shit-eating grin to go alongside it, it’s very clear to see why Michael is not very well-liked here or anywhere.

MICHAEL KELLY: "I believe that not only did you not deserve that success and adjulation, but that it should have been mine. Now, well now we sit here in the year 2023 and the tables seem to have turned. Now The Mad King is at the top of his game, proven through and through against some of the “best” in the world. Some of the best to have ever stepped inside of a wrestling ring."

MICHAEL KELLY: "And guess what? I’ve defeated them all. I have held my NWF World Championship for over 3 years. To this day, Tedmund Montgomery is looking for that one person that’s going to knock this out of my hands. I’ve ruled over the United Kingdom with an iron fist. I’m now standing in King’s Road and hoisting up MY championship gold over my head, which I’ve done in record time might I add. All while you sat on the sidelines."

Of course, a line of his own is enough to break The Mad King. Like loyal troops, both Tony Russo and Liberty Hightower chuckle alongside him; whether or not they actually found what he said to be funny.

MICHAEL KELLY: "Shimada! You look here! While you were out in the wild searching for a purpose, I worked day in and day out to rule the landscape of professional wrestling. I have now become an anomaly. I am the one that people come to for shots. I’ve ruled the United States. I’ve ruled the United Kingdom. Now with your upcoming demise in sight? The Mad King will become The Emperor Of New Japan."

"Those who are with me will walk along the Mad King’s Road.

Those who are not will fall where they stand."

A laugh lasting the rest of the video fills the room. It’s pompous. Annoying. Rage-Inducing. The Mad King Michael Kelly has made his claim. He wants Mitsuo Shimada one on one.

Korato Shiozaki: ("After an incredible match between Owen Gonsalves and Mitsuo Shimada... The MAD King, Michael Kelly, has made his intentions clear and known. He is going after Mitsuo Shimada! ")

Nakano Gozen: ("We're going to be getting Shimada versus Kelly soon, aren't we!? I can't wait!")

[James Peterson]

Korato Shiozaki: ("It's finally time for our main event. For the NJFC Global Championship, Brennan Devlin and MYŌJIN made it through their qualifying matches earlier tonight, and now one of these competitors will be leaving A New Hope as the Global Champion! We've seen what they can do already but now, it's a one on one opportunity to etch their names into this companies history books. Who's it gonna be?!)

Nakano Gozen: ("Like earlier Korato, I couldn't call it. I can't now. This match has so much behind it as well, with both of these competitors going back and forth on social media as of late... it's as if they both knew they were destined for this spot in the main event. But only one of them can prevail. My heart says MYŌJIN but you can't ignore Brennan Devlin, he has won championship gold everywhere he's been. It's gonna be a stellar match, that's for sure! Lets take a look at some of the words both competitors had to say at the press conference a few days ago.")

JAMES PETERSON: "Ladies and Gentlemen... Brennan Devlin!"

Brennan Devlin soon wandered out before the press conference with his girlfriends, Keana and Elisha with him, while Holliday Sinclair and Avalon Vega, his security, appeared in the background making sure nobody got their hands on their boss. Devlin wore cheetah print pants, an orange bandana, sunglasses, and a white jacket with a ‘Cheap Slut, live in Japan’ shirt underneath as he approached a seat and plopped down, his ladies taking a seat near him. He leaned against the podium, tapping the microphone.

BRENNAN DEVLIN: “Is this thing on?”

He began to tap the microphone repeatedly, looking a bit annoyed as he peeked over his sunglasses.

BRENNAN DEVLIN: “You guys can’t afford the good microphones, huh?”

He adjusted himself and leaned back in his chair, glancing around at everyone while he pulled the microphone off the podium and held it up to his mouth.

BRENNAN DEVLIN: “You know I’ve never got to do one of these things before, so forgive me if I’m a little out of it, someone’s probably got some questions and I love talking about myself, so… go.”

Devlin tapped his heel against the podium as he waited for someone, anyone to come around and ask him a question.

RINGSIDE REPORT: “Hello, I’m Marvin Dinkle with Ringside Report.”

BRENNAN DEVLIN: “Dinkle. Ha.”

RINGSIDE REPORT: “Yes. While lately you’ve mostly been working in your companies Christ Centered Wrestling and Satan Slanted Wrestling, this is one of the first times you’ve ventured out beyond your visits to APEX Wrestling, where you held the Worlds Championship for sometime, but otherwise, you rarely step out into the wider wrestling world these days. What made you come to NJFC?”

Brennan nodded as he blew a bubble with his gum, then spun his chair around and finally contemplated an answer.

BRENNAN DEVLIN: “I’ve done everything almost, everything I’ve ever wanted to do, to the point I had to find new things I wanted to do. So I started looking at professional wrestling as a whole and plotting out a course of action. Then, there comes the NJFC. You look at some of the industries best, some of those that are spoken of in legend, my old ‘pal’ Ana Hayden, Cosmo Cooper — rest in peace granny Cooper, love ya, hell Michael Kelly was here — probably got seven Japanese sluts pregnant while over here, Raab even walked these halls. So, why them, and not me? I have an ego bigger than Alyssa Graces’ ass, Dinkle. If they can do it, if they can succeed, I’ll exceed that.”

He knew various types of people and persons had walked in the doors, and he wanted to not just be in the race, he wanted to edge ahead of them and that meant coming here, it meant not just being in the conversation, but being the conversation.

JAPAN GRAPS: “So, you’ve come to NJFC, and you’re immediately pushed into a situation where you can fight for an opportunity at the Global Championship, which has now evolved into a situation where all of this happens in a single night. Why in particular out of everyone involved in this, did you single out Myojin?”

BRENNAN DEVLIN: “Is it bad if I suggest Myojin is the most sensitive? Myojin is the one who was most likely to take the bait. They wear their emotions on their sleeve, they let things bother them, you can tell based on a simple Twitter interaction and if there’s one thing I like to do, it’s pick at people to get the eyes on myself. I’ve paid attention to Myojin and their work in Kings Road, they’re great, and if they win their way to face me? I’ll love proving how much better I am.

But all the same, Ricky Valero? He’s been around, I’d adore slapping him around and getting some gold to my name. Ojima’s a fun one. Lily Blaise surely has something she wants to prove. I’m fascinated by everyone involved and I’ve watched a little bit of everything about them all. The one thing everyone in this has in common? If tonight even starts to be their night, the moment they step in the ring with me, it won’t be any longer.”

Then another gentleman wandered up to the podium.

BARKSIDE OF THE RING: “What do you have to say to the members of the community who adore you within the furry fandom?”

BRENNAN DEVLIN: “No comment, next question.”

Pause.

NJFC EUROPE: “So, if you win the NJFC Global Championship, if you succeed in this, what is the next goal, and the one after that? What is your overall mission statement for your visit here into the NJFC fold?”

BRENNAN DEVLIN: “I want everything, that’s my mission statement, that’s my goal. I’m going for the Tags, I’m going for the Heavyweight, I’m here to put my hands in every cookie jar and take a little bit of everything. I’m here to collect what I’m owed by professional wrestling.

All you people watching in the back, in the arena, at home, across the wrestling world I’m sure you think that you’re going to be the difference maker in all this. That you’re going to play the hero, that you’re going to swerve out of your lane and speed up, come catch me and end my ride before it gets going. But you might think you’re living life in the fast lane, but going against me is like living in oncoming traffic.

I’m here to elevate this fucking company higher than any of that ass weed Cloudy sells ever could and when the end of the night comes and you have more eyes on this place than you’ve ever had before as I stand your Global Champion. Say thank you, say thank you Brennan Devlin. You did this. But as far as any more questions, I’ve already been paid, I gave you three and that’s three more answers than I usually give anyone for this kind of money. So I’m going to go bang Keana and Elisha in strange places, maybe see if Avalon can crush an arcade machine with her thighs, and be merry.”

Devlin stood up, wrapping his arms around Keana and Elisha who both kissed him on the cheek for the cameras, before the entourage of Brennan Devlin complete with Keana and Elisha, and security Holliday and Avalon in tow all wandered out of the area.

JAMES PETERSON: "Ladies and Gents, MYŌJIN!"

MYŌJIN sits with their legs crossed, on top of the table before them as a few cameras flash. Dressed in a simple, all-black suit with a black dress shirt that's collar was unbuttoned, they seemed focus on their nails for a few moments before picking up a microphone- turning back toward the camera and many seated.

MYŌJIN: Korera ga dorehodo taikutsu ka shitte imasu ka? (Do you know how insanely boring these are?)

The Shining Star simply asks, sitting up right into a more polite and focused position. Their hand lazily tilting the microphone around in a circular motion before bringing it to their lips once more.

MYŌJIN: (Press conferences, I mean. I still struggle to understand the importance of them. Yes, they're to help garner interest and hype for upcoming events but… What really is the point? Everyone's always just saying the same things. Does anyone really want to hear variations of “I'm going to win because I'm the best!” from multiple people who aren't actually that?)

MYŌJIN: (How about I tell you something different? New Japan Fighting Championship is back, some old faces have returned- and plenty of new ones are here as well. I'm one of the latter. Winning the Global Championship isn't the only thing that matters at New Hope, it's also about setting the tone.)

MYŌJIN: (Whoever wins that title, whoever makes it even to the finals of the night will have a unique opportunity: they get to be the basis of NJFC's future as the very first champion crowned in this revival. I'm not sure if anyone else has thought about that- but I have since the match was announced.)

A small smile appears on the Shining Star's face as they lean forward in their chair.

MYŌJIN: (I want that person to be me, obviously, because it'll be an experience I've never had before- one that I believe could lead to my evolution as a pro wrestler. So I will make sure that is me. I will fight whoever I need to, and I will show the proper ferocity I think embodies NJFC's spirit as a newcomer to the promotion. All that said? I still think talking is pointless. You all will understand me better once you see me in action.)

And with that, they stand and sit the microphone down. MYŌJIN steps away while readjusting their black blazer.

MAI KADO: ("The following contest is scheduled for one fall and has a sixty minute time limit. This is your main event and it is for the NJFC Global Championship!")

 

The compressed, 8-bit sounds of Silhouette by PASTEL GHOST reverbs throughout the arena as the lights dim. Purple, pink, and blue hues dance around and soak the audience in an ethereal aesthetic as the people in attendance raise the flashlights on their phones, mimicking a starfield. The Shining Star, MYŌJIN, emerges at the entrance, smirking as they take in the reactions- both good and bad. Taking their time to strut down the ring, eyes focused purely on the squared circle ahead.

Pastel Ghost, you're sleeping

Saunter in the evening

You won't need me and it's just

I'm colder, I'm colder, I'm colder

They walk up the steel steps, climbing up their nearest turnbuckle. Standing up as they give a piercing stare to the many watching while vibrant magenta flashes past their face from the ceiling above as they nonchalantly cast off their bedazzled jacket and toss it aside.

MAI KADO: ("Making their way to the ring, weighing in a one hundred and sixty eight pounds, Osaka, Japan...  “The Shining Star”, “Starchild”, “Lightbringer”, “The Celestial Artist”, “The Ever So Heavenly”, “Myo-chan”, “One of One”... MYŌJIN!")

Sit and wait on pale mist

Bury me in your kiss

You drown me in a whisper

I warned you, I warned you, I wanted you

Over and over and over

MYŌJIN backflips off of the top rope, landing on their feet while smoothly backing up into their respective corner. Lowering themself as they run both hands through their hair before holding onto the ropes near them, tilting their head enigmatically with patience as they wait for the match to begin.

We get the first prelude to Brennan Devlins entrance as a low hum of music plays through the arena, Brennan is strolling through a foggy black void. A neon city glows in the distance as he comes to a stop - the camera panning up to him as he turns and smiles into the camera.

The screen above the stage begins to flicker various cars driving through the city, increasing the speed as the ominous music plays throughout the building. The crowd falls silent as they know what’s coming. Slowly we come back into the arena where two buxom women, Keana and Elisha emerge from the entrance tunnel, taking sides opposite each end. Keana looks lovely as always on one side, while Elisha stands upon the other looking just as gorgeous.

MAI KADO: “Ladies and gentlemen allow me to introduce… accompanied to the ring by Keana and Elisha, he notes he is called the following. He is the King Kong of Dong, the Sultan of Schlong, the Big Bad formerly of Boardwalk Wrestling, the Cornerstone previously of 4 Corners, the Pinnacle of Penile Perfection, the World Class of Ass, he is a Four Course Meal of Sex Appeal and you’re all about to be stuffed… By the Big Dog of Hog, the Weapon of Ass Destruction that fucked that one grandma to death.”

Panting.

MAI KADO:  “Some have called him; the Beast With Many Names, the Saint of the Taint, the Top Dog with the Big Hog, the Graps Devil, the Best Butt Machine, the Thirst Born Son, the Man With the Rear that Makes the Girls Cheer, the Hole Effin Show or the Holestoppah’ to some… He is the self proclaimed best to ever ‘do it’ and the Longest in Professional Wrestling…

He is the FACE of Professional Wrestling. Please welcome — BRENNAN DEVLIN!”

Devlin wanders onto the stage as ‘Party Like Tomorrow is the End of the World’ by Steel Panther blares throughout the building. Slowly Devlin sauntered along the stage, glancing from each side out into the audience, before meeting Elisha and Keana and motioning for them to follow.

They would eventually loop around the ring with Elisha and Keana heading up the steps, Keana and Elisha would then stand behind him on the apron taunting the crowd. The lights flickering around then as Brennan slowly climbed up on the apron and joined them, smooching each before allowing them to enter the ring. Once inside, he would begin to talk strategy with them as he shed his entrance robe and the music faded down

Main Event

NJFC Global Championship - Singles

"The Shining Star" MYŌJIN vs. "The Face of Wrestling" Brennan Devlin 

Chants of “Myo-chan” echo through Korakuen Hall. But that doesn't seem to phase Brennan Devlin, in his corner, bouncing on the balls of his feet. He looks out at the crowd, shaking his head in disgust before looking out toward Keena and Elisha, who are blowing kisses in his direction. He blows them a kiss back and MYŌJIN is quick to try take advantage, rushing toward Brennan who quickly gets in-between the ropes to force the break. He smiles, as MYŌJIN backs away allowing Devlin some breathing space. The two then begin to do the routine circle of the ring, eyeing each other as they do and approach one another. MYŌJIN extends their arm, initiating a lock and Devlin goes to lock in, before sending his knee into the midsection MYŌ.

The Face of Wrestling cackles, pushing MYŌ back into the corner and raking at their eyes, forcing the referee to intervene. He holds his hands up, backing away as MYŌ rubs at their eyes. Devlin goes back on the attack, grabbing MYŌ and Irish whipping them into the ropes. MYŌ bounces back and Devlin smashes into them with a running hip attack. He stands over MYŌ, taunting them as Devlin thrusts his pelvic back and forth over their body. The Shining Star counters, Bridging Schoolboy pin attempt!

ONE!

Devlin kicks out!

Both competitors race back up but MYŌ is first to make their move, delivering a flurry of open palm strikes across Devlin's body, culminating the sequence with a spinning back kick to the mid section. They follows this up with a back kick, switchblade kick, another spinning Back, followed by a Kakato Otoshi kick down to a kneeling Devlin! MYŌ takes off toward the ropes, rebounds and performs a Running Jumping Meteora to a kneeling Devin, which they then transition into a Rana Pin!

ONE!

Devlin kicks out!

The two competitors come together with a collar to elbow tie up, Devlin is quick to come to the back of MYŌ, for rear waist lock. MYŌ manages to grab onto his arm/wrist, and fight their way out, wrenching the arm of Devlin round as they tightens a wrist lock. Devlin boots them in the gut to break the hold, grabbing the arm of MYŌ, and applying an arm wrench of his own. Devlin tightens, squeezing onto the wrist of MYŌ. He pulls down on the arm repeatedly, backing MYŌ into the ropes for an Irish whip, MYŌ comes back and is brought down by a Samoan Drop by Devlin, who hooks their legs.

ONE!

MYŌ kicks out! 

Devlin is quick to transition into an armbar submission from a grounded position. The audience begin to clap as MYŌ rises, reaching for the ropes, but Devlin does well to keep MYŌ away from them, managing to quickly transition into a lateral pin attempt.

ONE!

MYŌ kicks out!

Korato Shiozai: ("It's been a hot start between these two, quick exchanges, and a lot of back and forth!")

Nakano Gozen: ("Both of these competitors showing why they're two of the best in the business!")

The Face of Wrestling pulls them back up onto his feet and delivers a backhanded chop to the chest of MYŌ. MYŌ replies with one of their own, one that's harder than Devlin's connection. Devlin winces a little, as MYŌ shakes their hand, calmly, before delivering another backhanded chop to the chest. MYŌ shakes his forearm, clubbing the bent over Devlin round the back. Devlin falls to his knees but MYŌ keeps him up. An open palm strike to the face of Devlin connects, followed by another, another, and another! Devlin replies with a stiff forearm strike to the face, but that only pisses MYŌ off more. The Shining Star connects with a Right-Legged Roundhouse, followed by a Left-Legged Roundhouse, a Kakato Otoshi axe kick, followed by another Right-Legged Roundhouse! Devlin falls into a seated position and MYŌ charges to the ropes, bouncing back and delivering a harsh soccer kick to the back of Brennan Devlin!

They deliver with a Corkscrew Arm Wrench Takedown, MYŌ applies a hammerlock and handstands into a bridging position, applying the hold and making Devlin kicks his feet. He manages to reach the ropes and MYŌ releases the hold, immediately getting to their feet and bringing Devlin up with them. Irish whip, but Devlin reverses, MYŌ bounces off and Devlin attempts a big boot, MYŌ slides underneath it and grips him with a waist lock. Devlin drives his elbow backwards into the skull of MYŌ, who slowly releases the hold. Devlin takes off to the ropes, rebounds and MYŌ is running right pass, rebounding off the ropes to take him down with a Tilt-A-Whirl Arm Drag. 

Devlin immediately rolls himself to the outside after the pin, slamming the apron in frustration as his girls try to calm him down ringside. MYŌ doesn't waste any time, rebounding off of the ropes, Topé Estrella (Over The Top Rope Somersault Topé)  onto Devlin!

“Myo-chan” “Myo-chan” “Myo-chan”

The fans applaud in awe as The Shining Star rises to their feet, grabbing Devlin by his hair and throwing him into the guardrail. They deliver a series of shoot kicks to the mid-section of Devlin, who staggers into one of the seats. MYŌ takes a few steps backwards before charging toward Devlin. Suddenly, Keena and Elisha step out in front of Devlin, forcing MYŌ to stop in their tracks. Devlin bursts through the middle of his girls, raking at the eyes of MYŌ. He then grabs them, throwing them onto the seat before taking a few steps backwards. He runs up towards them, delivering a running big boot to the seated MYŌ, who flies over the railing and into the fans!

Devlin walks around the outside of the ring, grinning from ear to ear as his girls applaud him for his efforts. He goes back to work on MYŌ, climbing over the railing and telling a group of fans to move out of the way. They do and Devlin grabs MYŌ by the mid-section, going for a gutwrench suplex! MYŌ doesn't budge, managing to land a couple strikes on Devlin who releases his grip. Devlin then hurls his knee into the mid-section of MYŌ, repeatedly, retaining the hold and lifting them up, before slamming them down with a gutwrench suplex into a stack of chairs! The fans gasp as MYŌ arches their back in pain, and a group of Dragon's Dojo students surround them. 

Korato Shiozaki: ("That was sickening, Nakano, Brennan Devlin using anything and everything to keep MYŌ down!")

Nakano Gozen: ("Keena and Elisha once again able to turn the tides in Devlin's favor, Korato. You've got to make the most of your entourage when you can!")

Devlin dusts off his hands, smirking as he slowly walks up toward MYŌ.

He chuckles, as MYŌ slowly ascends to their feet. The Face of Wrestling taunts MYŌ, slapping at their face and kicking them whilst their down.

He says to the fans - "Is this your new hope? Nah, I don't think so! I'm your new hope!", cackling as he continues to lay into MYŌ. The fans jeer and begin the chants of; 

“Myo-chan” “Myo-chan” “Myo-chan”

The Face of Wrestling scoffs in disgust. He grabs MYŌ by their hair, driving his fist into their forehead, repeatedly.

"Not so pretty now, huh, Myo-chan?" he says, and MYŌ suddenly springs back into action, blocking a strike attempt and delivering a flurry of their own in quick succession; Open Palm Strikes connect across the body, followed by a spinning back kick to the mid section. Devlin doubles over and MYŌ is effortless as they land a step up enziguri, knocking Devlin down completely.

The fans cheer as The Shining Star gets to their feet, bringing Devlin up with them and throwing him over the guard railing. They hop over themselves and have their eyes set on what's under the ring. MYŌ brings out several steel chairs that they throw into the ring, eliciting cheers from the fans as Devlin slowly rises to his feet. 

Keena and Elisha are trying to warn Devlin of the incoming MYŌ, who greets Devlin with several strikes to the forehead. They roll him into the ring and hops onto the ring apron, Springboard Double Foot Stomp connects! Devlin clutches onto his stomach, leaning forward in a seated position. MYŌ alternates as they deliver shoot kicks to Devlin, following this with a hard penalty kick to the chest! MYŌ doesn't go for the cover, instead, has their eyes set on the steel chairs they threw into the ring earlier. 

The Shining Star looks back at Devlin, who's crawling toward the corner of the ring. MYŌ sets up the stack of chairs, not too far from the corner Devlin is recovering at. They then go toward Devlin, lifting him up and onto the top rope. MYŌ joins him on the second, preparing himself as he looks back toward the set of chairs. Devlin starts to launch his own attack, strikes to the mid section unsettles MYŌ. He pushes them off and MYŌ stumbles back, avoiding the chairs. Devlin jumps over MYŌ, also avoiding the chairs as he rolls through. MYŌ charges toward them, in a delayed Swinging Reverse STO position, briefly staring longingly in their eyes, before hitting the maneuver onto the stack of chairs! 

Korato Shiozaki: ("LESBIAN EYES! LESBIAN EYES! LESBIAN EYES!")

Nakano Gozen: ("WHY DO YOU KEEP SHOUTING THAT?!")

Korato Shiozaki: ("THAT'S WHAT THE MOVE IS CALLED, AND BRENNAN DEVLIN JUST HIT IT ONTO THE CHAIRS!")

He covers MYŌ... 

ONE.

TWO..

MYŌ kicks out!

The fans applause quickly turns to jeers Brennan mounts on top of MYŌ, delivering several strikes to the forehead of MYŌ, once again targeting their face. He rubs his forearm hard against it, before pummeling down on them with stiff shots. MYŌ is bleeding and Devlin's grin grows as he does. "I've always wanted to see your stupid face bleed MYŌ, not so pretty now, are they?!", he cackles. 

Korato Shiozaki: ("And there it is, the blood is flowing, MYŌ is busted wide open.")

Nakano Gozen: ("And look at Brennan Devlin, he's loving this!")

Brennan continues to direct strikes into the exposed area. Leaning MYŌ against the padded corner, where he delivers several more crisp strikes, as they begin to slide down the corner. Devlin then heads to the opposite corner, preparing himself before launching off, a hesitation dropkick connecting in the corner! He grabs MYŌ, dragging them away from the corner and to the center of the ring, locking them in the sharpshooter submission. Devlin has the lock in tight and is grinning as he applies the hold, taunting MYŌ as he they reach towards the ropes, refusing to quit! Eventually, MYŌ manages to scoot himself over, grabbing onto the bottom rope as Devlin releases the hold, immediately grabbing onto MYŌ and trying to lock in with his finishing Face Turn (Anaconda Vice) submission, but MYŌ fights him off.

They kip-up back onto their feet, ducking under an lariat attempt from MYŌ. They pause, only realizing the blood that's running down their forehead, but it doesn't bother them. MYŌ smears the blood over their face and Brennan squeals in horror, shocked at MYŌ's embrace. MYŌ charges toward Devlin but he evades, delivering a Pele kick that stuns MYŌ! They stagger, keeping their balance, as they feint Roundhouse kick into a Spinning Heel! Spit flies out of the mouth of Devlin as he staggers backwards into the ropes, running towards MYŌ - who replies with his signature; Stardust Rush (Roundhouse, Shoot, Spinning Heel, Buzzsaw, Axe, followed by a Super to a kneeling Devlin), they cover...

ONE..

TWO... 

Devlin kicks out!

He's crawling to the corner, his girls encouraging him to hurry. 

MYŌ measures him up from across the ring. They take charge, as Devlin has his head against the padded corner, MYŌ drives their knee into the into the back of Devlin's skull, connecting with a punishing Oneirataxia (Bicycle Knee Strike)!

Korato Shiozaki: ("ONEIRATAXIA CONNECTS!")

They cover... 

ONE.. 

TWO...

T - Devlin kicks out!

MYŌ immediately goes to scale the ropes and the fans rise, applauding as they know what's coming next, Keena and Elisha are screaming at Devlin, trying to warn him but MYŌ has already taken flight, looking for Falling From Heaven (Corkscrew 450° Splash)...

Korato Shiozaki: ("This could be all over, Falling from Heaven!")

And connects with Brennan Devlin's knees!

Nakano Gozen: ("The Face of Wrestling counters!")

He quickly manages to reverse the situation, locking MYŌ in the Face Turn (Anaconda Vice) submission! 

Korato Shiozaki: ("Face Turn, locked in!")

MYŌ struggles, but the fans are chanting their names, urging him not to quit. 

Nakano Gozen: ("I'm not liking the looks of this, Korato! I think Devlin might have them!")

The referee is asking whether MYŌ wants to submit, but they shake their head in refusal. Brennan Devlin tightens the hold, applying as much pressure as he can, whilst rubbing his arm into the open-wound on the face of MYŌ. 

“Myo-chan” “Myo-chan” “Myo-chan”

MYŌ uses the energy of the crowd, managing to reach the ropes, to the dismay of Devlin. The Face of Wrestling gets to his feet, putting the boots down on The Shining Star. Brennan heads to the ropes, looking to connect with FaceTime (curb stomp) but MYŌ evades, step up enziguri kick! Devlin stumbles but remains on his feet, stumbling into MYŌ, grabbing them by the head - Face 2 Face headbutts! One, two, three, four, five, head buts connect! MYŌ suddenly grabs at the head of Brennan, delivering Face 2 Face headbutts of his own, cracking their skull into Devlin's, exposing him! 

Korato Shiozaki: ("It's a bloodbath out there! Are these two trying to leave Korakuen Hall concussed?!")

Nakano Gozen: ("They're laying it all on the line for the NJFC Global title, Korato, I don't think they care too much!")

Both competitors lean on one another as the fans applaud them for their efforts. They slowly race, exchanging strikes as they do, with each strike hitter harder than the last. Brennan Devlin hits MYŌ with a pele kick as MYŌ stumbles back into the padded corner. He runs towards them, running double knee to the chest! Snapmare takedown to a seated position before heading off to the ropes once more, baseball slide dropkick to MYŌ! Devlin kips up and runs his fingers through his hair, watching as MYŌ slowly ascends. He grabs their arm, wrenching it round before planting his foot onto their face and falling backwards, connecting with his signature Face Full (Eat Defeat)!

He covers, 

ONE.. 

TWO... 

THRE - NO! 

MYŌ kicks out!

Immediately Brennan scales the top rope, positioning himself as he points to his girls ring side, dedicating this one to them. He thrusts his pelvic back and forth, mocking MYŌ who's flat out.

He then propels off, attempting his signature REGARDS FROM THE FIFTH DIMENSION (Shooting Star Press), but MYŌ moves out of the way, and Devlin stomachs the canvas!

MYŌ rebounds off the ropes, Katharsis (Curb Stomp) connects!

Korato Shiozaki: ("HERE WE GO!")

MYŌ goes for the Aquila (Stepover Kimura Lock) but Devlin rolls through into the ropes.

MYŌ doesn't let go of the hold and both Keena and Elisha are on the ring apron, shouting abuse in their direction. 

They eventually release the hold after the referees count, who then goes to address the situation with the girls on ringside. 

MYŌ goes over to the girls, giving them a death stare that leaves them speechless as they slowly descend. 

MYŌ turns around, eye rake! Lesbian Eyes by Brennan Devlin! 

Koratio Shiozaki: ("LESBIAN EYES! LESBIAN EYES! LESBIAN EYES!")

Nakano Gozen: ("That distraction from Keena and Elisha might have just won Devlin this match!")

The Shining Star rubs at their eyes, trying to slowly ascend as Devlin rebounds off the ropes - Face Time (curb stomp)! 

The Face of Wrestling covers, 

ONE... 

TWO... 

THRE - NO! 

Korato Shiozaki: ("The Shining Star kicks out!")

The fans cheer as MYŌ manages to kick out! Brennan Devlin isn't wasting any time though, he's back on his feet, bringing MYŌ up too. 

He delivers his finishing Face Off (Diamond Cutter) to MYŌ. 

Korato Shiozaki: ("FACE OFF! FACE OFF! BRENNAN DEVLIN JUST HIT FACE OFF!")

Nakano Gozen: ("This is sickening, Korato. I can't watch!")

Brennan Devlin covers, 

ONE... 

TWO... 

THREEE!

DING DING DING

    WINNER: BRENNAN DEVLIN (32:01) (NEW NJFC GLOBAL CHAMPION)

Korato Shiozaki: ("Brennan Devlin has defeated MYŌJIN to become the new NJFC Global Champion. I am lost for words, Nakano. What a main event that was but God, I just feel as though MYŌJIN was robbed! The distraction of Brennan Devlin's girls allowed to get back into the match when it mattered most. Whether we like it or not, he is our new NJFC Global Champion.")

Nakano Gozen: ("The Face of Wrestling is now the Global Champion. He said he would do it from day one, and he did. But I feel as though this won't be the last time we see these two duel here in NJFC! I am sure The Shining Star will be back challenging for that Global Championship sooner rather than later!")