CONVICTION VIII

Episode VIII October 7th, 2019 Honolulu, Hawaii

— The Declan Black Experience The OATH signature aired and then the shot swept over the arena in Honolulu. Matt Mears and Ben Petrie welcome us to the show but before they could get into their usual diatribe “Brenda Stubbert” cued up and instantly Honolulu filled the arena with “fuck you” boos.  The new OATH World Champion, “The Pride of Nova Scotia” Declan Black walked out onto the stage. Dressed in a custom three piece suit, complete with a brand new Rolex watch on his wrist. The timepiece, albeit beautiful, was not the featured accent in his ensemble – the World Championship title slung over his shoulder was the center piece. Black took his time coming to the ring, soaking up the boos from the audience as if he were being welcomed like a conquering king. Black reached the bottom of the ramp and the camera pulled out to show that the ring was elegantly decorated with two leather chairs, burgundy velvet carpet, and in the center hung a neon sign reading “The Declan Black Experience”. To the left of the sign was an ice bucket with a bottle of Dom Perignon chilling and beside that was a table with one champagne flute. The champion took hold of a microphone but when he went to speak the audience’s jeers increased in volume, the sound was deafening. Black pulled the microphone away, smirking at the reaction he was receiving. As soon as it moderately subsided, he began to speak. “I understand that we are in Hawaii but that is no excuse for this disgusting display of disrespect. You are supposed to be a relaxed people, this kind of response is not how you welcome the new OATH Pro Wrestling World Champion.” Black said and as expected, he got even more of a “fuck you” response. “We could do this all day but to be perfectly honest, I don’t want to spend any more time in Honolulu than I have to,” Black said. “In fact, the only reason that I agreed to come out her tonight is because I get to debut my brand new interview segment!” Black gestured to the set-up in the ring, Honolulu didn’t give a fuck. They wanted him out of the ring, or for someone to come beat his ass. “Welcome to The Declan Black Experience. And tonight on the first edition, I have the…burden…of announcing that starting next week, OATH will begin a three week tour of Japan.” Black said in a disgusted tone, “The third show will emanate from Tokyo where I will defend my OATH World Championship against…Jake Archer.” The mention of Jake Archer got a massive pop from Honolulu and the champion was not impressed. It seemed like it pained him to speak of someone like Archer as his first challenger. “Now when I was handed that news, I figured that it would only make sense for Archer to come out here and explain to me…and you fucking people…how in the hell he plans on beating me in Tokyo. Well here I am Jakey, let’s get this over with.” Black said with disdain. Mears reminded us that Archer was not in the arena, still recovering from his brutal match with Erik Holland at Brutalism. Petrie said that if Archer had any heart at all, he’d be in Honolulu. “C’mon Jakey, I know that you are backstage pissing yourself at the very idea-“ Black was cut off mid-sentence when “Death Becomes Him” hit the p.a. What followed was a mixed reaction from the crowd as “The Most Dangerous” Erik Holland stoically walked out from behind the curtain. Initially Black looked afraid but remembering the cameras, he returned to a neutral expression. Holland walked to the ring, starring a hole through the champion. Once in the ring, Holland stepped right to Black and then turned his gaze to the World Championship. The champion was furious, “What the fuck are you doing here, ruining my moment like you ruin the very concept of all that is good and decent? You got some kinda 8 billion light tube ‘look at me, I got rejected for Jackass even though I’m the world’s biggest’ death match to promote?” Holland simply pointed at the title, then at himself. “I don’t make my title matches, trash boy. OATH does. You want a shot, take it up with management, because I’d be pleased to run you out of here too.” Black said. “But since you are out here and you won’t be my next challenger, we can keep the peace. Join me in celebration.” Black stepped back and poured himself a glass of Don P. “I only had one glass brought out here because I don’t like to share but I’ll make an exception just because I liked the way you beat the fuck out of Archer at Brutalism. I’ll drink from the bottle.” Black handed the glass to Holland but Holland did not accept it. Holland smacked the glass out of Black’s hand and then took a step forward. Sensing this, Black hit Holland in the throat with the bottle and slipped out of the ring with his title. In the ring Holland’s expression did not change, the shot barely phased Holland but it gave the champion enough time to escape. Holland’s gaze was fixed on the champion as the latter retreated up the ramp.

— Ben Akuma vs. James Edwards The first contest of the evening saw two strikers go to war as “The Fifth Seal” Ben Akuma tried to improve his middling record against the debuting “The Burning Heart” James Edwards. The two traded kicks off the opening bell with Edwards getting the better of Akuma following a series of hard kicks to the right knee. Akuma, in an act of desperation, went for his Masamune (Wrist-Lock Knee Strike) early but Edwards slipped out of the way in evasion and was able to plant Akuma with his Half Cut (Half Nelson Suplex). Edwards kept the pressure on, hitting Akuma with a Foxfire (Fisherman Brainbuster) for a near fall. “I personally see a lot of potential in James Edwards, I think he is going to be a force here in OATH.” Matt Mears said. “Maybe. He needs to win this match before we can really say anything about his future, Mears.” Ben Petrie said in retort. Knowing that this match was slipping through his fingers, Akuma was able to momentarily shift the momentum with a palm strike to Edwards’ chin. Akuma quickly set Edwards up for Judas’ Cradle (One-Handed Electric Chair Driver) but Edwards slipped off Akuma’s shoulders, landed behind him and took Akuma over with RRE (Reverse Release Exploder Suplex). “The Fifth Seal” was seeing stars and Edwards wasted no time. The newcomer grabbed Akuma’s wrist and pulled him in for Violent Genesis (Ripcord Spinning Back Fist). Akuma got absolutely smashed with that one and Edwards covered for the three count. Winner: James Edwards

— Blind Eye Outside the arena in Honolulu we panned down from the night sky and passed by a palm tree. The camera fell on a close-up of the newly minted OATH Tabula Rasa Championship. The shot pulled out to show that the title was slung over the shoulder of the first ever champion, “The Kodiak” Nina Stokes. “When people within OATH talk about me, they all say the same thing, I have heard it time and again since arriving here – that I won’t win.” Stokes said and her eyes fell to the title on her shoulder. “And I continually prove them wrong.” “The truth is that since I signed with OATH, people have doubted me. They’ve turned a blind eye to what I am capable of. But that is all over now.” She said. “Now that I am Tabula Rasa Champion I have a clean slate to forge my legacy in a way that I see fit. So tonight when I defend my championship against Leah, I will do so in a First Blood Match.” Stokes took hold of the camera lens and pulled it in close. “Do not be foolish Leah. Do not turn a blind eye to my truth. You aren’t leaving Hawaii with my title, but if you come into this match showing me my due respect, you might just survive.” Stokes then released the camera lens and the operator stumbled backwards, falling over. The final shot was of the night sky and the champion walking off into the night.

— Alex Pierce vs. Ryan Young The next contest was scheduled due to events that transpired on the Brutalism pre-show last week. Alex Pierce and Ryan Young teamed together in their debut to take on The Dynasty. Due to their inability to work together, The Dynasty picked up the victory

Following the contest, Pierce and Young had a giant blowout which required referees and security to enter the ring and separate the two newcomers. Matt Mears noted this was likely just the beginning of an issue between Pierce and Young. Brutalism, 09/29/19

“The Fire Fist Ace” Alex Pierce was out first but didn’t even make it to the ring before Ryan Young attacked him. Young sent Pierce into the guardrail with an Irish whip and then rolled him into the ring. The referee conferred with Pierce and Pierce gave the signal that he was good to go.

“Genius move from Ryan Young!” Ben Petrie said.

“A cowardly move. That indicates that he is scared of Alex Pierce. At least it does to me.” Matt Mears noted.

As soon as the bell rang, Young tried to rush Pierce but Pierce met him with a discus forearm smash. Pierce then went for his Chaosbringer (Shouten) early but Young slipped out of it and exited the ring. Thinking that he was safe from Pierce’s wraith, Young turned his back to the ring to try and regroup.

Not a great idea.

Pierce dove through the ropes with a suicide dive that sent Young hard into the guardrail. Pierce sent Young back into the ring but when Pierce tried to go back on the attack Young pulled the referee in between himself and his opponent. Pierce moved the referee out of the way and Young hit Pierce with a low blow.

“The Fire Fist Ace” was in agony following the low blow and Young was able to plant him with 7 Ring Driver (Psycho Driver IV). Young covered but the referee only reached a two count before Young was able to kick out. Young was beside himself in disbelief.

“The Messiah of the Knee Strike” measured Pierce and went for the strike that he is known for but Pierce blocked it and hit Young with another discus forearm smash which dropped Young. Pierce followed that up with Glimmering Warlock (Feint shining wizard transitioned into a reverse roundhouse). Pierce struck while the iron was hot and planted Young with Chaosbringer (Shouten) and pinned him for the three count.

Winner: Alex Pierce

— WANTED Backstage “The Outlaw” Josie Wales was shown looking at a ragged wanted poster for one Carlos Cruz. She smirked to herself upon addressing the camera. “It seems that Carlos Cruz already high-tailed it out of here after losing to me at Brutalism. Guess he learned his lesson…” She said and then a brief pause. “Y’know, I came to realize something.” Wales said and then unrolled a new poster. She took a moment to admire it and then placed it over the poster for Carlos Cruz. This new piece featured Locke Helms. “Originally, I wasn’t sure why I saved you from that two on one beatdown. Sure, it was the right thing to do… but really, it was none of my business. Then I saw your match against Agustin Gates and it made something click… you’re the baddest man here, and I need to conquer you. The way you battered Agustin was the likes people rarely see these days and I want to face that intensity. Not only that, but when I take you down it will prove that I am one of the top talents in OATH. And Locke, I don’t want any excuses from you when I do…” She said with a confident smirk, as she tipped her hat to him. “Locke Helms, when we do get to face off I want you at one hundred percent, so I can truly prove myself around here…” She said, closing into the camera for dramatic effect. “And if you think I can’t show that same level of violence… why don’t you pull up a chair and watch me take on SILK tonight. He talks a lot of trash for a man who is in over his head with the hottest undefeated signing on the brand today. He may be as smooth as his namesake, but silk does tear and unravel easily, too. Tonight, he’s going to be the next person brought down by The Outlaw, Josie Wales. Pinned or Submitted.”

— The Dynasty vs. Brie Marie & Tanay Wilson Tag team action was on deck as The Dynasty took on the newly formed team of Brie Marie and Tanay Wilson. The Dynasty was fresh off a debut victory at Brutalism and looking to cement themselves as contenders for the newly minted OATH Tag Team Titles. Brie Marie also pulled off a victory at Brutalism but her partner Tanay Wilson did not have the same fortune which is what led to their pairing here tonight.

Tanay Wilson offered her congratulations to Brie Marie, which was happily accepted. Marie said that Wilson should not fret over a couple of losses, that her career in OATH has only just begun. Wilson agreed and said that she just needs to find her footing. Marie proposed and idea to Wilson, she suggested that they try teaming up next week on Conviction. Wilson happily agreed and the two shook hands. A new partnership formed. Backstage at Brutalism, 09/29/19

Marie and Patrick started this contest, with Marie taking the early advantage following an arm wrench and some impressive cruiserweight agility. Patrick took refuge in a vacant corner only for Marie to hammer him with Special Delivery (Big boot, to a cornered opponent). Showing intelligent tag team prowess, Marie led Patrick over to her corner where she tagged in Wilson. Marie put Patrick down with Yahtzee (Super Kick Outta Nowhere) and Wilson came off the top rope with a diving elbow drop for a near fall. Patrick rolled to the middle of the ring, trying to get to his corner but Wilson was right there on top of him. Wilson tried for her Tanay Lay (Snap Michinoku Driver) but Patrick was too heavy. Following a boot to Wilson’s mid-section, Patrick laid her out with Houston Hangover (Powerbomb lift into a modified DDT). “Patrick needs to make a tag here, the combined offense of Marie and Wilson has really worn him down.” Matt Mears said. Patrick was indeed able to make the tag to his older brother David and together they subdued Wilson with Spin Doctor (Rolling fireman’s carry slam [Patrick] followed by a Senton Bomb [David]). David covered but Marie broke up the pinfall. This prompted Patrick to toss her over the top rope to the outside. Due to Marie’s intervention, Patrick was allowed to remain in the ring for a few more moments, which led to Wilson’s downfall. The Dynasty took hold of Wilson and hit her with Chaos Theory (Patrick picks up the opponent into a Burning Hammer while David climbs up the nearest turnbuckle at which point David comes off the top rope and hits a diving double foot stomp onto the opponent which is then followed by Patrick hitting the Burning Hammer.) David covered and secured the victory for his team. Winners: The Dynasty After the bell The Dynasty celebrated in the ring while Wilson rolled to the outside. Marie consoled her partner and could be overheard saying, “We’ll get ‘em next time!”.

— Learning Tree With The Dynasty still in the ring the lights in the arena went out. After a few moments of tension and speculation amongst the fans in Hawaii the tron lit up with a scene set in an unknown location. The area was lit by only a single naked lightbulb, hanging from the ceiling. “Oh shit boys. We know who this is and you should be pretty fucking worried.” Ben Petrie said. The Dynasty stood in the ring, both looking perplexed. The scene on the tron shifted when two figures entered the frame. Miguel Villalobos and TERROR stood beneath the naked lightbulb and the fans in Honolulu let the pair know exactly what they think of them. (“Fuck Enigma Protocol!” was heard from one audience member.) “Perhaps the two of you are unfamiliar with Miguel and I, so allow me the opportunity to enlighten you. We are Enigma Protocol. We are the most dangerous tag team in OATH. We have won Tag Team gold before in other lands and we intend on doing that again here in OATH. The balance of the tag team division is askew, teams that do not deserve opportunities are receiving them and we can not…we will not stand idly by while such an injustice takes place.” TERROR said. “Folla a tu madre!” Villalobos shouted which prompted TERROR to half heartedly try to calm his partner. “Forgive Miguel, he just really hates people like you two. You have only just come to OATH while we have been here since the beginning. You may feel that your two victories have proved something but I assure you that you have proved nothing until you have faced our test.” TERROR said. “We are a test that you will not pass but it will be a learning experience for you. You will be humbled and you will see exactly what it takes to make it here in OATH.” Villalobos took a step in front of TERROR, he was seething. TERROR put his hands on Villalobos’ shoulders, leaning forward. “Next week, boys, you will come and sit under our learning tree. We will restore balance to the OATH tag team division and you will be the first step. Get your affairs in order, perhaps update your resumes, because after next week you will both be considering a new line of work. Until then…” TERROR waived “bye bye” as Villalobos continued to snarl. TERROR stepped out of frame leaving Villalobos to reach up and rip the lightbulb out of the ceiling. The scene on the tron was plunged back into darkness and The Dynasty were left in the ring to consider their future.

— Jain Kekoa vs. Locke Helms The roof practically came off the arena when “The Hawaiian High” Jain Kekoa made his entrance. “Ke-ko-a” chants filled the arena and the native Hawaiian looked pleased as (Hawaiian) punch to be home. “This kid is so positive and why shouldn’t he be? He picked up a victory in his debut last week at Brutalism and tonight a victory could put him in line for a title opportunity!” Matt Mears said. “You are aware of who is opponent is right?” Ben Petrie said. The mood in the arena shifted dramatically when “The Chairman of Chaos” Locke Helms made his way to the ring. Petrie noted that he loved the level of violence that Helms brought to his match with Agustin Gates and Brutalism. Petrie mused that Helms beat Gates so badly that Gates hasn’t been seen since!

With a look of complete malice in his eyes Locke Helms got Agustin Gates up and hit him with a series of brutal bone on bone head butts before hitting Witching Hour (Locke hits Full nelson legsweep facebuster but he keeps the full nelson locked in as he flips himself over his opponent’s body and transitions the move into a bridging arm triangle choke). Gates was trapped in the middle of the ring but could not tap out. The referee noticed that Gates was out cold and called for the bell. Although the bell rang several times, Helms did not released the hold. Gates was out cold but Helms was rabid. He wanted to inflict permanent damage. Brutalism, 09/29/19

The two competitors stood eye to eye in the middle of the ring. Kekoa was smiling but Helms was wearing an ice cold expression. The two locked up but Helms shoved Kekoa to the mat with authority. Kekoa was quickly back up to his feet. Helms rushed him but Kekoa sent Helms into the ropes. Kekoa was able to hit Helms with a dropkick that sent the latter through the ropes to the outside. “A great start from The Hawaiian High!” Mears said. Helms stood on the outside and did not look impressed. Kekoa challenged Helms to re-enter the ring and Helms did just that, albeit at his own pace. Helms entered the ring and Kekoa made no attempt to jump him. Once back in the ring the two locked up. Kekoa sent Helms into the ropes and went for a roundhouse kick but Helms ducked it and hit the opposing ropes. On Helms’ return, Kekoa flattened him with a Yakuza kick! The audience in Honolulu was on fire for Kekoa and he was feeling the love. Helms looked frustrated as he tried to shoot on Kekoa but Kekoa leapt in the air to evade it and then cracked Helms with an enziguiri! Helms was staggered back into a corner and Kekoa was right on him! Kekoa did a somersault into a monkey flip that sent Helms clear across the ring. Kekoa climbed up to the nearest turnbuckle and went for a diving double foot stomp but Helms rolled out of the way. Kekoa landed on his feet and rolled through. Kekoa went for another lock up but Helms cracked him with a stiff elbow and then planted Kekoa with a Diamond Rain (Standing Moonsault Slam/C4). That move took the wind out of Honolulu’s sails and Helms took a moment to compose himself. Helms seated Kekoa on the top rope but Kekoa hit Helms with a knee to the chin to force some separation. Kekoa then went for a blockbuster but Helms moved out of the way. Helms let out a primal roar and when Kekoa rushed him again Helms lifted Kekoa up and nearly broke him in half with a uranage backbreaker. With a look of malice directed towards the Honolulu crowd, Helms pounced on Kekoa and hit him with the Witching Hour (Locke hits Full nelson legsweep facebuster but he keeps the full nelson locked in as he flips himself over his opponent’s body and transitions the move into a bridging arm triangle choke). Kekoa was trapped in the center of the ring, he had no choice but to tap out. Winner: Locke Helms

— The Cavalry…? Much like at Brutalism, Helms refused to release the hold. Honolulu showered boos on Helms with one fan trying to jump the guardrail to help Kekoa. Security stopped the fan and then a group of security guards moved to enter the ring but they were cut off by familiar music hitting the p.a. The head of security stopped his team and waited to see what would develop. “Here comes some help for Kekoa!” Mears said. “It’s the Intrepid Champion!” “You’re Going Down” played throughout the arena and “The Titaness” Samantha Hamilton came sprinting to the ring. Helms saw her coming and released the hold. Instead of bailing out like you’d expect, Helms met Hamilton head on! Hamilton and Helms traded strikes back and forth but Hamilton got the upperhand. Hamilton put Helms down with a lariat and then went to hit him with Wrath of the Titans (Pedigree) but Helms slipped behind her and put her down with Witching Hour (Locke hits Full nelson legsweep facebuster but he keeps the full nelson locked in as he flips himself over his opponent’s body and transitions the move into a bridging arm triangle choke)! Helms had Hamilton trapped. “He’s going to break her arm! Hamilton should have stayed backstage!” Petrie said. At this point security decided to do their jobs and enter the ring. It took several moments and four men to pry Helms off of Hamilton but it eventually happened and Helms left the ring. Helms stared at the chaos that he caused with a cold gaze. He made his point.

— Josie Wales vs. SILK We came back from commercial break to see “The Outlaw” Josie Wales and SILK already in the ring. Matt Mears said that many people expected SILK and his partner Cartier to show up in Honolulu with the OATH Tag Team Titles but after being triple teamed by the other competitors in the Ultimate Endurance Match at Brutalism, Thot Chocolate was eliminated first. SILK walked to the center of the ring and Wales was right there to meet him. SILK looked down at “The Outlaw” and gave her a pat on the head. Wales responded with a forearm smash to the SILKY Smooth One’s face. SILK just ate it and then gave Wales a wink and a smile. The two locked up and SILK forced Wales into a corner. “This is a mismatch if I’ve ever seen one.” Mears said. “Hey she wanted to fight the boys, exclusively, so that’s what is happening.” Ben Petrie responded. SILK controlled the early going, taking Wales to the mat and applying a standing wrist lock. With Wales subdued, SILK gyrated his hips before dropping a knee onto Wales’ shoulder. Wales rolled on the mat in agony as SILK sauntered around the ring, playing to the various women in the first few rows. SILK’s showmanship afforded Wales some time to recover and before he knew what hit him, SILK was taken down with a chop block. SILK tried to regain his momentum by rushing “The Outlaw” but Wales used his momentum against him and drove him head first into the nearest turnbuckle with a flapjack. SILK staggered backward and Wales rolled him up for a two count. The camera zoomed in on SILK’s face and he wore an expression of complete shock. Wales met his gaze and indicated with her thumb and index finger that she was “this close”. SILK looked as if he was about a half second away from losing his cool but he instead took a moment to compose himself and gestured for Wales to “bring it”. “Oh I think we’re in the midst of an excellent match Benjamin.” Mears said. The two locked up again and what came after was pure magic. SILK forced Wales down into a headlock but she sent him into the ropes. Upon SILK’s return Wales caught him in the mid-section with a kitchen sink knee. Wales went for an elbow drop to keep SILK down but he rolled out of the way. SILK slithered backward and when Wales was back up to her feet SILK shot forward with a running clothesline that turned “The Outlaw” inside out. The time for showmanship was over and SILK knew it. SILK dropped some quick knees onto the back of Wales head and then sent her shoulder first into the ring post, through the turnbuckles. SILK sauntered forward and pulled Wales into a reverse waistlock. SILK couldn’t resist gyrating and this momentary lapse in judgement afforded Wales the opportunity to slip behind SILK and take him down onto his stomach! Honolulu popped for that demonstration of strength from Wales and she quickly transitioned into a laying front face lock in an attempt to keep SILK down. It worked for a few moments but SILK was able to fight his way up to a vertical base. SILK broke the hold and pulled his arm back for another clothesline but Wales blocked it and took SILK down with a jawbreaker! SILK, holding his chin, scrambled back up to his feet but Wales hit him with a boot to the mid-section and put him back down with Sundance Neckbreaker (Overdrive)! Wales covered. 1..2..! SILK kicked out just before the three count which seemed to surprise most of the fans in attendance. Wales wasted no time, she took hold of SILK, swirled her finger in the air, and then she went for Rio Lobo Driver (Quackendriver 3) but SILK fought out of it. SILK shoved her into the ropes and on her return SILK took her over with Bareback (Olympic Slam)! The height that SILK got on that move was insane and Wales came crashing down with a stomach churning thud. SILK covered. 1..2..! “The Outlaw” kicked out and SILK could not believe it. For the second time in this match, “The Black Anaconda” looked to be in complete shock. Wales took advantage of the stupefied SILK and pulled him into a perfect school girl! SILK was pinned and had nowhere to go. 1..2..! SILK almost got beaten again and Honolulu was here for it. Both competitors clambered to get back to a vertical base and when they did SILK was the first to strike. A boot to Wales’ mid-section staggered her a bit. SILK then hit her with a stiff right hand that sent her sailing backward but Wales caught herself on the top rope. SILK rushed her but Wales low bridged the top rope and SILK spilled over the top to the outside. “What a contest we are seeing! I feel like we are in the midst of an instant classic!” Mears said. “Typically I don’t agree with your gross use of hyperbole but I can’t disagree. I have no idea who is going to pick up the win here.” Petrie replied. SILK gathered himself on the outside but Wales would not wait. Wales was out on the apron and when SILK turned to face her she ran, jumped off of the apron and took SILK down with a flying lariat! Honolulu popped as Wales did everything she could to get SILK up and get him back in the ring. SILK was dead weight but “The Outlaw” managed to get him in under the bottom rope. Wales got up on the apron and gingerly entered the ring but SILK was back up and it seemed like it was out of pure instinct that he hit her with a boot to the mid-section and dropped her with B.J. [Break Jaws] (Stunner)! Wales popped off the mat and landed flat on her back. It took a moment or two but SILK hooked her leg and covered. 1..2..! At the very last millisecond Wales kicked out and SILK seemed overwhelmed with frustration. SILK stood up and scolded Wales obnoxiously with a wag of his finger. SILK took hold of “The Outlaw’s” legs, tied them up, and turned her over to lock in Trick Turner (Sharpshooter). Wales is trapped in the middle of the ring with SILK’s full weight leaning back on her. “This has to be it, there is no way that Josie Wales is getting out of this hold.” Petrie said. “I have no idea how this match is going to end but I refuse to count Wales out!” Mears replied. “We have seen another level of fight from The Outlaw tonight.” Wales used all over her upper body strength to push off of the mat and begin walking on her hands towards the ropes. SILK could not believe it. She was going to do it, Wales was going to power herself to the ropes. SILK seemed to accept this so he broke the hold and delivered a stiff kick to the back of Wales’ head. The shot closed in on Wales’ face and her expression changed from agony to murderous resolve. “Uh oh.” Mears said. Wales shot a glare toward SILK and he looked taken aback…briefly. SILK darted forward and hit another stiff stomp to Wales’ head but she just ate it. So SILK gave her another. She started to stand. Another stomp. She kept rising. SILK then wound up and unleashed a clothesline but Wales ducked under it and on the come around she blasted SILK with a bicycle kick that dropped him! Honolulu was fully behind Wales as she quickly got SILK up and positioned him for the Rio Lobo Driver (Quackendriver 3) but SILK slipped out of it, uncorked and elbow smash and then planted her with the SILKY Smooth DDT (Destino). SILK crawled into the cover and the referee made the count. 1..2..3! Winner: SILK “Purple Rain” cued up and SILK dropped to a knee. Even as he got his hand raised his gaze did not shift from the opponent that just took him to the limit. It took some time for Wales to stir but when she did her eyes met SILK’s. SILK gave Wales a nod and then rolled out of the ring. “The Outlaw” got to her feet and the audience in Honolulu gave her a standing ovation. Wales looked disappointed but it appeared that some small part of her appreciated the support that she received on this night.

— Unfinished Business Following the commercial for the Violent Ends pay-per-view, SILK was shown walking through the Gorilla position, a towel slung over his shoulder. SILK was en route to the locker room area when he was approached by OATH Interviewer May O’Neil. “SILK, we just witnessed you defeat Josie Wales in one of the most incredible matches that we’ve seen on Conviction. You have primarily been a tag team wrestler since arriving in OATH but after a display like that are you considering a singles run?” O’Neil asked. SILK, still breathing heavy, took a moment to construct his answer. “Well honey, the cowgirl gave me quite the fight but Thot Chocolate has unfinished business with–” SILK was cut off mid-sentence when he was taken down by two shadowy figures. The camera operator was knocked down in the attack so we did not see who the perpetrators were. The final thing we could see was officials rushing to the scene before we cut.

— Cartier vs. Stephanie Matsuda Cartier was in the ring, seemingly unaware of the attack that befell her tag team partner. Stephanie Matsuda was out next and she was showing off her new OATH Tag Team Championship title. As Matsuda held the title up, coming down the ramp we cut to Cartier in the ramp and she looked less than pleased about Matsuda’s arrogance. Ben Petrie reminded us that it took three teams to eliminate Cartier and SILK from the Ultimate Endurance Match at Brutalism and said that had it been a two on two contest between The Inevitable and Thot Chocolate the result would have been different. Matt Mears said, “You could be right Benjamin but it wasn’t a two team contest. It was Ultimate Endurance and The Inevitable came out on top. Let’s take a look at the closing moments of that contest.”

Steven Maximum tried to kick Stephanie Matsuda off of his leg but she was up to her feet. Matsuda positioned Maximum for a back suplex, she took a step back and dumped him over the top rope! It took only a few seconds for Matsuda to ascend the ladder and retrieve the two title belts. A few moments later Leah was back up, she climbed the ladder and Matsuda handed her one of the titles. Our first champions were crowned. Brutalism, 09/29/19

Once the footage faded out from the Tron we once again saw Cartier in the ring, sucking her teeth. After Matsuda handed over her title belt, the referee called for the bell and the match began. Cartier caught Matsuda off guard immediately with Eat This Ass (Rear View) and “The Brooklyn Brawler” proceeded to stomp the shit out of Matsuda. Matsuda covered up and got to a vertical base but Cartier met her with a boot to the mid-section. Cartier took Matsuda over with a snap suplex and then floated over into a cover for a two count. Matsuda put some distance between herself and Cartier off the pinfall attempt which prompted Cartier to taunt the champion. The two locked up and Matsuda drove Cartier back into a corner. Matsuda hit Cartier with some roundhouse kicks to the mid-section, then took a step back and went for Yahtzee! (Superkick) but Cartier slid out of the way. Matsuda’s foot was hung up on the top rope and Cartier hit her with a field goal kick to the quad. Cartier then gathered Matsuda up and took her over with a capture suplex. Following a Staten Island Slam (Alabama Slam), Cartier had Matsuda rocked. Matsuda got up to a knee but the highly motivated Cartier ran and tried to hit Matsuda with Empire State of Mine (Kinshasa). But Matsuda low bridged the middle rope and Cartier flew to the outside, landing in a heap. With Cartier down on the outside, our attention turned to the stage where SILK came flying through the curtain. The SILKY Smooth One landed in a heap and a close up revealed that he was bleeding from the mouth and favouring his ribs. “What the hell is going on?” Mears questioned. His query was promptly answered when the trio of Harvey Carbine, Josh Cherry, and their heavy Combo XL walked out onto the stage. The trio each stepped over SILK and made their way to the ring. Matsuda looked ready to fight in the ring but Cartier wasn’t going to wait. Cartier charged up the ramp in an effort to take the fight to Midnight Special but Carbine met her with a spear. Then together, Midnight Special dropped Cartier on ramp with Minutes to Midnight (Slingblade [Cherry]  / Backside Spear [Carbine]). The referee had to call for the bell. Winner: Cartier (via disqualification) Midnight Special then turned their attention to Matsuda. Instead of charging the ring, Cherry pulled a microphone out of his waistband. “Don’t worry War Crime, we aren’t here for you tonight. We’re giving you a pass this week. You see when we beat you for those Tag Team Titles we want it to be on the level.” Cherry said. “We got word from management that since Maximum Dynamite died or whatever, we’re the defacto Number One Contenders for that gold you hold.” Honolulu was not happy to hear this but Cherry and Carbine didn’t seem to give a fuck about what the Hawaiians think. “This little display here? This is just to let you know what is coming for you next week when we get out shot. So you tell Lil’ Leah not to leak too much in her match tonight because you’re gonna need every drop of blood you’ve got next week. Come correct, or don’t come at all.” Cherry said before handing the microphone to Carbine. “Quote it.” Carbine said and then dropped the microphone on the ramp. Followed by Combo XL, Midnight Special went back through the curtain but not before surveying the damage they caused with confident smirks.

— Rising Sun Cutting away from the chaos in the arena, we cut to a prepared video package. The shot fades in to a view of the intimidating world wonder known as Mount Fuji. The deep voice of OATH’s resident narrator rang out. “Next week, for the first time in company history, OATH Pro Wrestling will begin a three week tour in the great nation of Japan.” The Narrator said. Shots of OATH wrestlers were intercut with views of the respective skylines of Osaka, Kyoto, and Tokyo. “Next week, Japan takes the pledge.”

— Tabula Rasa Championship – First Blood Match Leah vs. Nina Stokes © It was now time for the main event and there was a sense of worry mixed with anticipation among the fans in Honolulu. The Tabula Rasa Championship affords the champion the privilege to name the stipulation in which the title is defended. Earlier tonight, newly minted champion Nina Stokes announced her decision.

“Now that I am Tabula Rasa Champion I have a clean slate to forge my legacy in a way that I see fit. So tonight when I defend my championship against Leah, I will do so in a First Blood Match.” Nina Stokes said. Earlier Tonight

Leah made her way to the ring with her Tag Team Championship belt around her waist. Honolulu welcomed the “War Queen” and she embraced the love that she was receiving. Leah entered the ring and handed over her prized title belt and then awaited her opponent. “Leah has the unique opportunity to become the first double champion in OATH history here tonight.” Matt Mears said. “Yeah but unfortunately she has to go through Nina Stokes and that woman has been on an absolute fucking tear recently.” Ben Petrie said. “I don’t know that Leah can get it done without a tag partner.” “Sei to Shi to Kimi” cued up and the arena went dark. “The Kodiak” Nina Stokes appeared on the stage under a lone spotlight. The light bounced off of the Tabula Rasa Championship around her waist and the audience was in silence. Stokes made her way to the ring with composed determination evident in her stride. She entered the ring and handed over her Tabula Rasa Championship, not once taking her eyes off of Leah. The referee presented the title to both competitors and then called for the bell. It was as if the bell triggered something in Stokes’ mind because she exploded out of her corner and forced Leah back into hers. Stokes was an avalanche of blows to Leah’s mid-section and head, alternating between the two areas. Leah looked to the referee to break it up but then remembered that there are no disqualifications and no count outs in a match like this. “If anyone was doubting that we would see a new Nina Stokes tonight then they can put those doubts to bed. It seems that winning the Tabula Rasa Title has made Stokes much more dangerous.” Mears noted. “Yeah and that is no good for anyone other than her. She was dangerous before, she could be a one woman apocalypse now.” Petrie said. “I’m into it.” Stokes chucked Leah out of the corner and when Leah tried to rally to her feet Stokes slid in with a knee to Leah’s face. Stokes then mounted the challenger and hit her with as many glancing elbows as she could before Leah bucked her off. Leah fought up to a vertical base but Stokes applied an arm wrench and then kicked Leah in the face a half dozen times. Leah shoved Stokes off and in an act of desperation she charged and hit Stokes with a big boot that sent Stokes through the ropes to the outside. The Tag Team Champion gave Stokes no room to recover, she charged and like a bullet she came through the ropes with a suicide dive to the outside. Leah returned the favour as she mounted Stokes and rained blows down upon the champion. Leah got Stokes up, screamed in her face, and then tried to send Stokes head first into the ring post but Stokes reversed it and Leah’s forehead struck the post directly. Leah staggered back and her legs gave out. “Let’s not forget Benjamin, Leah is one half of the Tag Team Champions. She is no slouch, she has been with OATH since the beginning.” Mears said. “She went through a brutal, lengthy match last week against six opponents. She can’t be at one hundred percent.” “And Nina Stokes is? She went through a War of Attrition at Brutalism. They are both banged up but this is OATH baby. No excuses.” Petrie said and that left Mears silent. Because Petrie was right. Stokes stalked Leah and nudged her with the toe of her boot in a show of disrespect. Leah grabbed at Stokes’ tights but Stokes shoved her to the floor. Leah crawled towards the guard rail and began to pull herself up but Stokes charged and stomped Leah’s hand against the railing. Leah let out in pain, which seemed to satisfy Stokes. Leah tried to put some distance between herself and the champion but like Michael Myers, Stokes pursued her at a slow pace. Leah threw a punch but Stokes swatted it away and advanced. Leah threw another punch but again Stokes evaded it. Stokes then went to grab Leah but Leah caught her with a surprise knee to the jaw. Honolulu was cheering for Leah but Stokes aimed to quell Leah’s comeback with a roundhouse kick but Leah slipped behind Stokes and planted her on the thin ringside mats with a snap German suplex. Honolulu came alive as Stokes lay down and out next to the ring. Leah knew that it was now or never so she got Stokes up and walked her over to the ring steps. Leah then smashed Stokes’ face into the ring steps. But once was not enough. Leah did it again. And again. And again. Like a madwoman, Leah kept smashing Stokes’ face into the ring steps until she exhausted herself. Stokes moved around the steps, putting them between herself and Leah in an attempt to recover. Leah charged at Stokes but Stokes drop kicked the steps right into Leah’s knee, dropping her. Stokes then reached under the ring and pulled out a bag of light tubes. “Oh…oh no.” Mears said in a solemn tone. Stokes, her nose bent sideways, approached Leah with a bundle of light tubes and evil intentions on the brain. Stokes swung the bundle but Leah struck first and caught Stokes with a boot to the mid-section. With all of the strength left in her body Leah lifted Stokes up and dropped her with a powerbomb but she turned mid-move and slammed Stokes down right on the announce table! “Holy shit! What the hell!?” Petrie let out as he stood and got out of the way. Stokes still had hold of the light tubes but she was laid out on the table. Leah could feel a victory within reach and she went to take hold of Stokes but the champion desperately swung the light tube bundle and caught Leah in the side of the head. “Jesus Christ! She got her! She nailed Leah with those light tubes!” Mears said. Leah dropped to a knee and Stokes stalked her yet again. With a limp, Stokes approached Leah with one light tube in tact. Leah looked up just in time to see Stokes swing down and smash the light tube in her face. Leah dropped and Stokes knelt down beside her. Stokes took a shard and tried to slice Leah’s forehead but Leah was already bleeding quite a bit. The referee interfered and called for the bell. It was over. Winner: Still Tabula Rasa Champion, Nina Stokes Stokes tried to keep going after Leah but the referee wouldn’t let it happen, which was the right call. The referee called for the title and he shoved it into Stokes’ possession, which seemed to be the only thing that would stop her. Stokes stepped away and held the title high. But the night was not over…

— Champion vs. Champion: Part Deux The sound of clapping could be heard over the p.a. Our attention was directed to the stage where OATH World Champion, Declan Black stood clapping with a microphone. Black had the World Title over his shoulder and he looked as smug as ever. “Great job Nina. We’re all so proud of you. But if you think that you get to close out this show, you’re wrong. The Champ opened the show and The Champ will close it. So scurry away and let me do my job–” Black said but couldn’t finish his last sentence because he was cut off… …by the Tabula Rasa Champion. “I don’t care about the people here in Honolulu but I think they’ve heard enough from you Declan.” Stokes said. “This is my main event, this is my moment. I plan on holding this title for a long time and it has absolutely nothing to do with you.” Black went to answer but he was cut off yet again. “But if you want it to have something to do with you then why don’t you try to do something that the previous World Champion did. Why don’t you agree to a champion vs champion match. He was able to do it and if you’re half the champion he was then you should be open to the challenge.” Stokes said with a grin. “So what do you say, champ?” “The Pride of Nova Scotia” took a moment to consider the proposition. “First of all; don’t act like you are conning me into anything. I invented the fucking con. I know ‘em all. I’ll face you Stokes because it’ll be a night off. Consider it on. Next week in Osaka. Champion vs. Champion.” Black said and took a step forward. “You’re going to regret it.” The champion dropped the microphone and held his championship in the air. Not to be outdone, Stokes entered the ring and did the same. The shot pulled out to show both champions on opposite sides of your screen. The match was set. Onward to Japan.

OATH Pro Wrestling 2019

Results • James Edwards def. Ben Akuma • Alex Pierce def. Ryan Young • The Dynasty def. Brie Marie & Tanay Wilson • Locke Helms def. Jain Kekoa • SILK def. Josie Wales • Cartier def. Stephanie Matsuda • Nina Stokes def. Leah to retain the Tabula Rasa Title