CONVICTION XLV

Episode XLV Sunday January 17th, 2021 The Citadel in Toronto, Ontario

---

Outside The Citadel a dark silver Ford Limited F-250 came roaring into the parking lot. He plows right on through the security gate, wiped out a few cones, and spun into two handicapped parking places. The door was shoved wide and out stepped Matt Shields, clad in black boots, some leopard striped red jeans, a black shirt with the simple message “Death Is Certain” under a tattered brown winter coat. He pulled two kendo sticks out from the passenger seat and started walking into the building, swinging them around as he was smiling. Kendrick Bingham came running out.

SHIELDS: Good, they sent Kenny. Audrey is better to look at, but you know when to just shut the fuck up and act as my portable mic stand. Did Straker think that if he just doesn’t book me until he wants to utilize his fucking golden goose, that I’m going to be okay with that? I will be here every fucking week until I get what I want. Me and the so called War Queen, well we’re gonna have ourselves a summit, Knightmare King to War… Princess. Most times they greet each other with a hug and a kiss, but I feel like that’s a little tame for us, so one kendo stick for me, one for her, we each get one hit, and then we have ourselves a nice chat where she either apologizes for costing me Blanche and tells Reo Ojima to name me number one contender or I destroy anything and every one the crusty old bastard actually gives a fuck about. Which at least means she’ll be safe because we all know she doesn’t mean a goddamn thing to the fucker.

He started laughing, then caught a boot to the face as The War Queen came running in on his blind side. Leah grabbed both kendo sticks and drove them into his back, talking some smack with each strike.

AGUERO: You just don't know when to shut your mouth do you Shields?

Both kendo sticks were again driven across the back of Shields.

AGUERO: All you had to do was accept your fate and walk away. Now you're just going to be nothing more than an example.

She grabbed his coat and tore it off, then put his shirt up over his head. She smacked both kendo sticks across his bare back, bringing up large welts and a few cuts.

AGUERO: How does it feel Shields? You'd be better off just kissing sweet Blanche goodbye.

The War Queen separated the kendo sticks, taking one in each hand, she smacked one across Shield’s shoulders and one across his chest, spun, hit him in the back with both, then circles and drives both into his chest, causing deep cuts as they crack and splinter.

AGUERO: You think you can destroy ONI? So many others have tried. What makes you so different? What makes you special? Nothing is what you are. You had your chance to walk away and you didn't listen. Now it's time to take out the trash.

With Shields down, The War Queen took a few steps back, cracked her neck, smiled, and charged forward looking to take Shields out with The Endgame. Before she could connect, she was picked up by OATH Head of Security Sheldon Force. He put her back down on the ground and had a few of his guys restrain her while a few more circled Shields, making sure he didn’t escalate things.

FORCE: Take her to The Brig, she’s attacked him twice now. I don’t want anymore of this bullshit. Let him go, hopefully, he just leaves.

The security hauled The War Queen off as Shields was slowly getting to his feet, catching his breath as he grit his teeth. His back and chest were bright red and cut open. He stood and watched as security took Aguero away. He pulled his shirt back on and nodded his head, smirking as he watched Aguero until she was out of view.

The wonderful, elaborate, and crisp OATH signature played. You liked it. It was followed by the opening chords of “Wet Blanket” by Metz playing throughout The Citadel in Toronto, Ontario.

Cut to ringside with a single shot of “Bad Mood” Ben Petrie sitting at the announcers desk. Bad Mood seemed like he had already enjoyed more than a couple Witch’s Brews. Disheveled wouldn’t be the word to describe how he looked -- more haggard.

PETRIE: Welcome or whatever the fuck to Conviction Episode 45. I’m Bad Mood and tonight I actually am legit in a terrible fucking mood. Last week my broadcast partner Matt Mears was attacked by a piece of sh-- by “The Comedian” Allen Chaney. Mears is at home recovering so tonight I am joined on commentary by...

Petrie took a deep breath in.

PETRIE: ...Finale.

The camera pulled out to a two shot and sitting beside Bad Mood was Rory “Finale” Costigan. The Buffalo Butcher was dressed in a fine, black, three piece suit and he seemed to be pleased as punch.

FINALE: Hello wrestling fans it is I, The Buffalo Butcher, Super Shredder, The Part Time Provocateur -- Finale. I am stoked to be here calling the action for OATH Pro Wrestling with my best bud Bad Mood.

Finale gave Petrie a slap on the arm which made Petrie look like he was about to be sick.

FINALE: This is gonna be fun Bad Mood. We’re gonna call some ‘rasslin, talk some shit, and maybe… just maybe… have a few laughs. Doesn’t that sound like a banger night my man? PETRIE: -flat- I’m ecstatic.

FINALE: Shit yeah you are. We’ve got a badass card tonight. Some real wild matches. We’re gonna see Johnny Draco take on an opponent that was handpicked by Tabula Rasa Champion James Edwards. That opponent is my old nemesis “The Eternal” Jonathan Cage.

PETRIE: I didn’t know that you two had history…

FINALE: That’s because you suck shit at your job. Me and Cage go way back. He’s never beaten me and I’m sure that sticks in his craw just a little but I DIGRESS. We’re also gonna see #1 Contender to the OATH World Championship Locke Helms take on Reo Ojima’s protege and ONI member King Kong Seto. How do you feel about the big man’s chances against The Chairman of Chaos there Bad Mood?

PETRIE: I think that Locke Helms is gonna rip Seto’s arm off and beat him with it. I like Seto, I fuckin love what he did to Scribbles on Livewire but he’s still practically a young boy. Young boys get eaten by guys like Locke Helms.

FINALE: I think Locke would need every member of The Hell Realm to help him eat that big bastard. While we’re on the subject of big, we’ve got two big title matches tonight. The first one is gonna see the Super Duper Petting Zoo defend the OATH Tag Team Titles against The Social Elite.

PETRIE: It’s the Super Kawaii Thunder Liger Squadron and fuck you for making me say that.

FINALE: I honestly just wanted to see if you would. Who do you have in that one? PETRIE: Not those idiots that’s for sure. The Social Elite showed what they are willin’ to do to get those straps when they bottled Minoru Tanahashi last week. I think that they are gonna be poppin’ champagne later with the Tag straps in tow.

FINALE: I mean I’m not a huge fan of the way that Social Elite do business but that is for sure a party I want to go to. Divorce is tough Bad Mood, I need a new woman in my life.

PETRIE: I can’t fuckin’ express how much I don’t care guy.

FINALE: Well I sure hope you care about tonight’s main event because I think it’s gonna blow the roof off The Citadel. “The Queen Of Fighters” Stephanie Matsuda looks to win her third unique OATH championship when she challenges that nasty cowgirl, “The Outlaw” Josie Wales. I can’t pick a winner in that one but I think that match is gonna bang.

PETRIE: I’m lookin’ forward to it. Much like I’m lookin’ forward to staring that bastard Allen Chaney in the face. Man to man. He’s gonna answer for what he did to Matt Mears tonight when he’s my guest on Mood Ring.

FINALE: You better watch your mouth or have FORCE Security right up your ass Bad Mood. Chaney is not a man to be trifled with.

PETRIE: I’m well aware you fucking idiot.

FINALE: Hey that was rude. Uncalled for really. But what IS called for is for us to get this shit to crackin! We’re gonna kick off the night with a unique Trios Tables Match! Sweet Treats are gonna team up with Cassidy Kane to take on The Hell Realm. Before we get to the action, I’m told that we have some footage from earlier today to share. So if you’re all strapped in, let us…

PETRIE: Don’t say his line.

Finale shrugged.

FINALE: Yeah fair enough. Lights, camera, violence!

PETRIE: That line sucks. FINALE: YOU suck.

The scene opened up just outside of the Sweet Treats locker room. The door opened and out walked Alex Andrews and Kallie Reznik, loosening up, with Alex popping her neck and Kallie hopping from foot to foot. They were about to walk away when Cassidy Kane came walking up to them.

CASSIDY: Hey guys, I'm glad I found you before our match. I just wanted to thank you two for saving me last week. It would not have been pretty if they had gotten their way. The Hell Realm does not play fair.

Alex smiled and waved Cassidy off.

ALEX: It's no problem. We don't like bullies, like at all. And it was about time somebody stood up to them. Might as well be us. They might be big, bad, and dark, but Kallie and I aren't so easily intimidated.

Kallie cut in.

KALLIE: We get that that's their way of trying to make a statement and show their dominance by attacking people, but there has to be a better way. Don't worry about it. We got your back tonight, Cassidy. It'll be interesting, for sure. But I have faith we can get it done.

Cassidy smiled broadly as she seemed a little more relaxed with the words exchanged.

CASSIDY: Well, I'll see you guys out there. Let's kick some butt.

The Sweet Treats smiled big as they watched Kane walk off.

KALLIE: For sure!

Kallie and Alex gave each other a knowing nod and smile as they walked off down the hall in the same direction.

TRIOS TABLES MATCH

Sweet Treats & Cassidy Kane vs. The Hell Realm

LAST WEEK... No music kicked up because as soon as the bell rang Astaroth and Nyx slipped into the ring and started stomping away on the poor Cassidy. The fans were booing the shit out of this as Terror exited the ring and collected a table. MEARS: Oh no. This is very unnecessary. Poor Cassidy Kane has no help against this trio of monsters. PETRIE: Hell Realm needs to reestablish their dominance. They are about to do just that. Kane is just a body. It ain’t personal. With the table in the ring, Astaroth set it up and started squirting lighter fluid onto it! The fans were horrified as they set the table ablaze and Terror positioned Kane for a powerbomb! MEARS: Get FORCE Security out here! You can’t do this! Luckily Sweet Treats came bounding out through the curtain, Alex armed with a fire extinguisher! Sweet Treats slipped into the ring and Terror released Kane. The Hell Realm bailed out of the ring as Alex put out the fire, saving Kane from certain doom.

First match of the night and the crowd popped big when Sweet Treats came to the ring with Cassidy Kane! Cassidy was wearing a Sweet Treats t-shirt and the trio made their way to the ring as a unified force. The mood drastically changed when The Hell Realm came to the ring, armed with one table. There were a dozen scattered around ringside but they brought a black table with the names “CASSIDY ALEX KALLIE” spray painted on the table in white. The Sweet Three took exception to this and all at once the trio flew through the ropes with a triple tope suicida!

FINALE: That’s one way to start!

The referee called for the bell because fuck it why not. Adrestia Nyx and Alex Andrews paired off, Andrews trying to maintain momentum with some stiff shots to Nyx’s midsection. Nyx responded by sending Andrews hard into the guard rail and then she caught her with a running leaping knee to the chin that sent Andrews over the guardrail into the crowd.

FINALE: I wonder if there are any Sweet Boys still lurking around.

PETRIE: I think Kevin was killed in jail. I’ll find out for sure.

FINALE: That would be fucked.

Astaroth went for a moonsault off of the ring steps but Kallie moved out of the way. Astaroth landed on his feet and Kallie caught him with an enziguiri. Astaroth was rocked but still standing so Kallie picked up a table and threw it in his face. That got him. Astaroth was down and Kallie went about setting up the table.

FINALE: You have to think that The Sweet Three are in different waters right now. This is The Hell Realm’s...realm.

PETRIE: I hate working with you already.

Ryan Terror lifted little Cassidy Kane up and whipped her hard into the apron. He followed that up with a hip toss onto the floor and then he slid her into the ring. Terror collected his black table and slid it into the ring. Terror entered the ring and set up the table leaning in the corner. Terror then went to grab Kane but was surprised by a spear from Alex that drove him through the table!

FINALE: And just like that it’s over!

PETRIE: It’s a trios tables match. The three members of each team gotta go through a table. Terror got caught slippin’, it won’t happen again.

FINALE: It might!

Nyx had been taken down by Andrews on the outside prior to that very successful spear and Kallie rolled Astaroth into the ring. Nyx got to her feet and entered the ring. Nyx spun Alex around and hit her with Knuckles, Bitch (multiple slaps and chops followed by a spinning back fist)! Alex got floored and Cassidy tried her luck against Nyx but got hit with Phoenix Twist (Rolling Cutter)! Kallie went to put a stop to Nyx’s warpath but Nyx caught her with Glassjaw (Bicycle Knee Strike)!

PETRIE: The Alpha Bitch is running shit right now! The former Tag Team Champion is taking the Wonka’s to school!

FINALE: I don’t know that Wonka ate his own candy…

PETRIE: I will have you killed.

FINALE: Please do. Fuck.

The Alpha Bitch was running shit in the ring but chose to exit to collect a table of her own. Nyx went to slide it into the ring but Cassidy hit the table with a baseball slide as Nyx put it on the apron. Kane slipped out of the ring and set up the table. She planted Nyx with a Tilt-A-Whirl DDT that took The Alpha Bitch down but Terror had appeared near her. Terror smacked Nyx’s head off the apron and then lifted her up onto it. Terror joined Kane on the apron and leaped off the apron and drove Kane through the table with Ohio Is For Killers (Dead Eye)!

PETRIE: Poor little Cassidy. She just ran into Ryan Terror and the results were as expected.

FINALE: They tried to put this kid through a flaming table last week. They failed. But they got her this week, sans flame.

Back in the ring Kallie had claimed a table and set it up in the corner but Astaroth attacked with a leaping forearm. Astaroth took Kallie down with an arm drag and put his back to the table but Alex grabbed his foot from the outside. With Astaroth distracted, Kallie darted across the ring and drove Astaroth through the table with running double knees! Terror entered the ring with a table but got caught with a double dropkick to the table from Sweet Treats!

FINALE: There is the tag team continuity of Sweet Treats. You’ve gotta think that they have the Tag Team Titles in their sights.

PETRIE: They can’t take the Social Elite.

FINALE: Uh… they aren’t the champions Bad Mood.

PETRIE: Soon enough guy.

Kallie and Alex set up the table and then tossed Terror over the top rope. Cassidy was up and she was hurt but she hit a Hex Girl (Second Rope Moonsault) down onto Nyx to take her down. Cassidy slipped Nyx into the ring and Sweet Treats took hold of her. The crowd in The Citadel was losing it as Sweet Treats set Nyx up and hit her with Starburst (Street Sweeper) through the table for the victory!

CRYBABY: Here are your winners, Cassidy Kane & Sweet Treats!

"Hypa Hypa" by Eskimo Callboy kicked up and the fans were stoked for the result. Alex, Kallie, and Cassidy each climbed up in different turnbuckles and raised their hands high, screaming out in joy! The three competitors then met in the middle of the ring for a round of high fives before we cut.

Johnny Draco sat in the locker room taping his fists for his upcoming fight.

???: Ready for tonight?

James Edwards walked into the scene with the Tabula Rasa Championship resting on his shoulder.

DRACO: You know I have to say I am feeling ready for tonight. I feel it will allow me to even the score between Jonathan Cage, a man we both seem to have zero respect for. It also brings me closer to fighting you for the belt.

Edwards clasped him on the shoulder.

EDWARDS: Good, I'm glad to hear it. Cage ain't an easy guy to put away. You're gonna have to be better than you were last week to beat him. You might have to be better than you were when you faced me. Have you been thinkin' about what I told you after last week's show?

DRACO: I have thought a lot about what you said. It does make sense for me to try harder than I have in recent matches tonight. I feel it might be time for me to use a new submission move to ignite some respect for my skills. Only time will tell when that new creation of a move comes into light.

Edwards nodded his head.

EDWARDS: Well keep thinkin' about it. It never hurts to have more than one option. I know you're in love with the crossface, but everybody knows that it is coming. You need to start keeping your opponents guessin'.

Edwards stopped and thought for a second.

EDWARDS: Listen man, I'm sorry for all the damn advice. You didn't ask for it and I don't wanna be an asshole. You're so close to scratchin' the top of your potential if you have the right guidance. I didn't have that when I first started out and I wanna make sure you have that. So I tell you what, to make it up to you, let me second you to the ring tonight. Give Tiff the night off.

DRACO: I appreciate the advice you’ve provided over the last few weeks. I respect the effort that a seasoned vet like yourself is putting in to assist me in getting recognized here in OATH Pro Wrestling. Me and Tiffany have always been a package deal. She has always has the best intentions when it comes to my career. For that I am forever grateful for her work with me. That being said, perhaps tonight it is best for me not to put her in harm's way when facing Cage. So for that reason for night only you can second me to the ring.

Edwards nodded in approval and motioned for the camera crew to leave so the two could talk strategy

Jonathan Cage sat in his locker room. He had a towel over his head. It dripped with water as it sat atop his head. Cage was panting a moment before looking up at the camera.

CAGE: I’ve been in this business for all of my adult life. This is my muse and it has consumed my life in both aspects. I’ve been laser focused on showing the world that I’ve still got it and that I’m still one of the best to put on a pair of boots. After Nightfall, I took some time to evaluate my situation and I decided that I have to alter my focus.

A beat.

CAGE: Things are different from when I was in my heyday. I’ve got to adapt or else I will perish like the others before me. I’ve become well rounded as a wrestler and as a fighter. Yet, that training didn’t fare me well in my last contest. It did, however...

Cage pulled off the towel which revealed his new facepaint scheme.

CAGE: ...show me that I’m a fucking animal who is backed into a corner. Johnny Draco, I’m coming for you and I am going to make you scream like the bitch you are. Then I’m going to get my rematch with you Edwards. I will make you scream too.

Cage lowered his head as the camera backed away.

SUBMISSION MATCH

Johnny Draco w/ James Edwards vs. Jonathan Cage

Ahead of the next contest we caught a view of Tiffany Lynn Page backstage, watching Johnny Draco make his entrance with James Edwards at his side. Tiffany looked less than pleased about this development. Cage made his entrance and there was no bullshit about it. Cage stalked to the ring, entered through the ropes and called for the bell himself. The referee shrugged and gave the signal.

FINALE: Cage has got to be supremely confident. He beat Draco the last time that they squared up. That being said, submissions have never really been John Boy’s game.

PETRIE: The Eternal has history on his side. He is a veteran and Draco barely knows a wrist lock from a wrist watch. This is going to be a masterclass in putting a young boy in his place.

FINALE: Draco is on a hot streak right now so it will be interesting to see if he can overcome the obstacle of Cage on his second attempt.

Draco rushed in on Cage and immediately got behind him in a reverse waist lock. Draco lifted Cage off his feet and put him on his stomach. Draco rotated one hundred eighty degrees and applied a front chancery but Cage fought up to his feet and went for a Northern Lights suplex! Draco shifted his weight and transitioned into a front choke, taking Cage down to the mat. Draco tried to get his hooks in but Cage started hammering on his ribs on either side.

FINALE: Instantly. Cage knew he was in trouble and he started targeting whatever he could to hurt Draco.

PETRIE: There isn’t a hold that Draco knows that Cage doesn’t know the counter to.

James Edwards slowly paced around ringside and Draco was forced to release his choke. Cage stood up and tried to stomp down on Draco but Draco rolled to his left. Draco picked Cage’s leg and looked to leap over for a grounded headlock but Cage slipped out and caught Draco with a Shadow Kick (Superkick) on the way up. Draco staggered back into the corner and Cage charged in with a leaping splash.

FINALE: Draco has to find a way to calm this down. If Cage gets going he’s like Juggernaut. Can’t be stopped.

PETRIE: So do you like Cage or do you hate him? I’m confused.

FINALE: I respect him but I’ll fucking smash him at a moments notice. Cage is a gifted competitor, one of the toughest I’ve ever faced. But he’s a piece of shit.

That splash had Draco rocked and he staggered forward out of the corner right into a snapmare from Cage. Cage applied a chin lock and drove his knee into Draco’s spine as he yanked backward on his chin. Edwards shouted something inaudible to Draco and Draco shifted his midsection and was able to get up to his feet. Draco hit a few sharp elbows into Cage’s midsection and Cage’s grip was broken. Draco took off for the ropes and when he came back to meet Cage he was hit with a roundhouse kick to the side of the head. Draco was out on his feet when Cage kicked him in the midsection and planted him with a DDT.

FINALE: I think the mistake that Draco is making is that he is only going for submissions. Cage knows that you’ve gotta soften him up before you can get a submission.

PETRIE: Draco has such a myopic view. This kid needs to figure it out and fast.

FINALE: It seems that Jimmy is helping him with that.

Draco rolled onto his stomach and started crawling for the ropes. Cage let him pull himself up to his feet but Cage came from behind and applied a cobra clutch! Like a gator with a gazelle, Cage started whipping Draco too and fro in an effort to deplete the young competitor’s energy. Draco fought as best he could but Cage’s hold was effective and Draco was fading fast.

FINALE: The ol’ Maggot Muzzle!

PETRIE: It was never fuckin’ called that.

FINALE: I call it that!

The Eternal eyed James Edwards on the outside but Draco was reaching for the ropes again. Cage switched his strategy and lifted Draco up with the cobra clutch and brought him down over his knee with Death Dealer. Draco let out in pain and Cage immediately applied a camel clutch. Draco started screaming in pain and Edwards planted his hands on the mat and began pounding the apron, trying to help the kid out. This seemed to work because Draco was able to get up to all fours and he bucked Cage forward. Cage flew through the ropes to the outside and stopped himself on the announce table.

FINALE: Look Bad Mood, we are getting a visit from a fucking Nancy!

PETRIE: Watch your mouth guy!

Cage stood up and locked eyes with Finale. In a shocking turn, Finale said nothing. Cage responded to this imagined slight by spitting in Finale’s face. That was enough for Finale to try and leap over the announce table but FORCE Security was there to stop him. Cage went to get back in the ring but Draco was there to hit him with a baseball slide! Cage fell backward into the announce table but Draco slipped him back into the ring.

PETRIE: This is what happens when you put AMATEURS out here with me. Finale is a fighter and couldn’t even go a full night without causing some bullshit! Matt please come back. I can’t do this next week!

Draco mounted The Eternal and started hammering on him but Cage shoved him off. Cage rushed Draco but was taken down with a wristlock takedown and Draco transitioned into Lights Out Lock (Crippler Crossface)! Cage fought it the whole way but Draco got it locked in tight. Cage, ever the wily veteran, was able to roll onto his back and get his feet on the ropes. Draco looked very discouraged but that expression was erased when Cage kicked him in the fucking face. Cage looked to follow that up with a straight right hand but Draco caught his wrist and brought him down to the mat with a grounded top wrist-lock -- the London Dungeon! Cage was trapped in the middle of the ring and with no way to escape he had to submit.

CRYBABY: Here is your winner, Johnny Draco!

Draco got his hand raised and Finale was in the ring! He jumped on top of Cage and started hammering him with shots but FORCE Security was in the ring to put a stop to it. Edwards entered the ring to congratulate Draco, away from the chaos on the other side of the ring. Security separated Finale and Cage, dragging them out of the ring. Tiffany Lynn Page appeared at the top of the ramp and stomped down to the ring. Her client just won, but she looked very displeased.

PETRIE: Here comes the boss!

Tiffany went up the ring steps, onto the ring apron, into the ring through the bottom and middle ropes. Armed with a microphone, Tiffany went over to Johnny and whispered into his ear. Johnny nodded his head in agreement. He said “Ok” then whispered back to Tiffany.

PETRIE: I guess Tiffany has helped Draco determine who James Edwards is going to face next week. Somehow Draco was successful, now it’s Jimmy Edwards’ turn.

After Johnny finished responding to Tiffany he turned his attention back toward James as Tiffany stared over Draco’s shoulder, glaring at the Tabula Rasa Champion. Draco went to say something but Tiffany raised up the microphone.

TIFFANY: Johnny has found your opponent! Next week you defend your Tabula Rasa Championship against HIM!

Tiffany shot her arm to her left and pointed at Finale, who was still being restrained by security. Finale looked as shocked as anyone but instantly accepted it. Edwards glanced over at the commentator and nodded. It was on.

The camera cut back to a security camera feed as we found King Kong Seto in a catering area eating a plate full of chicken wings. He gorged himself as a ticked off Reo made his way into the camera's view. Raising his hands and speaking in his native Japanese, Reo started to belittle Seto. Fortunately for the viewers at home there were English subtitles for the non Japanese speaking audience.

OJIMA: What the hell are you doing eating before a match? You’re going to throw up during the match you fatfuck.

SETO: I was hungry. I’ll be big and strong before the match. Don’t worry. I’ll be fine.

Slapping the plate full of wings aside, Reo got right in Seto’s face and talked down to him some more.

OJIMA: This isn’t a game, kid. Helms is the drizzling shits but he isn’t someone to look over. He isn’t one of the trainees over in Japan that you can take advantage of because of your size. He’s got experience and he’ll gobble you up if you don’t watch your ass. I brought you to OATH to get experience but you aren’t going to humiliate me out there. So either make me proud tonight or I’m going to stretch you until you cry like a little bitch. Are we clear?

Seto finished up his last wing and tossed it to the ground as he calmly addressed Reo.

SETO: Don’t worry Mr. Ojima. I have this.

Seto was about to walk past Reo but Reo grabbed him firmly by the shoulder and leaned into his ear. Instead of speaking Japanese he addressed him in English.

OJIMA: Break him, Seto.

Seto nodded and walked away as Reo was left alone to think about what’s to come.

SINGLES MATCH Locke Helms vs. King Kong Seto w/ Reo Ojima

“The Chairman Of Chaos” Locke Helms came to the ring and the fans were less than happy to see him. The Number One Contender for the OATH World Championship was looking quite pleased with himself and you would too if you had a World Title Match in two weeks.

FINALE: I apologize for what just happened with Cage. I am ready to resume my duties.

PETRIE: Well it got you a Tabula Rasa Championship Match. Idiots stumbling into opportunities all over these days.

FINALE: -dismissive- Do you think it’s Locke Helms’ time Bad Mood? He has been with OATH for some time. Former two time Intrepid Champion and longest reigning. His end to 2020 wasn’t great, losing War Games, but it seems that he is back on track.

PETRIE: The thing is that Reo Ojima has been defending the OATH World Championship since July. Some of the best matches that OATH has ever had have been Ojima World Title defenses. But it’s takin’ its toll on the old bastard.

FINALE: He has said that himself. The guy is in his fifties and he knows that he is wrestling on borrowed time.

PETRIE: Yeah I don’t know about that. Ojima ain’t leaving unless it’s his decision and he’ll defend that title until he physically can’t! This man is OATH.

The ONI signature played on the tron and King Kong Seto came out armed with a steel folding chair. He got a mixed reaction because he hadn’t given them a good reason to hate him. Seto held the curtain open and out came the OATH World Champion, Reo Ojima. That’s when the fans started completely shitting on all of it. Reo led Seto to the ring and then Seto set up the chair. Ojima sat down, lit his cigar and Seto entered the ring.

FINALE: I’ve gotta say that I’m surprised Ojima is out here.

PETRIE: Why? You think that The Stone Gargoyle is scared of Locke Helms?

FINALE: I’m just surprised that he gives a shit.

What came next was the proverbial chopping down of the tree. Helms knew exactly how to deal with a behemoth like Seto. Helms started off with some hit and run offence, catching Seto with a quick series of chop blocks. It took three of them but eventually Seto went down...but only to a knee. Helms was quick to hit Seto with Pulse Check (Running Knee Lift followed by a Falling Neckbreaker). Ojima puffed on his cigar, not reacting in the least to Locke.

FINALE: It’s almost like Helms is courting Ojima in a sense. He is putting on a performance here to show Ojima that he’s worthy.

PETRIE: What kind of thing is that to say? Helms is clearly worthy. You writing a fuckin’ romance novel Finale?

FINALE: Gear down Bad Mood -- I love romance novels.

Seto was having trouble getting to his feet and part of that trouble was when Helms took him down to the mat with a cross arm breaker. Seto was able to clutch the bottom rope and the referee called for the rope break. Seto got up to his feet but Helms showed his hidden strength when he planted Seto with a Saito suplex. Ojima still looked less than impressed as he puffed away on his Cohiba.

PETRIE: You kind of have to admire how little of a shit Ojima gives.

FINALE: This is a lesson for Seto. Early in your career you have to learn a lot of them and most of them are unpleasant.

PETRIE: What happened to you?

FINALE: Japan.

Poor Seto, he was very much in over his head but luckily Helms gave him a swift death by hitting him with Witching Hour (Full Nelson Legsweep into a Bridging Arm Triangle Choke). Seto was trapped in the middle of the ring and he looked out to Ojima for guidance. Ojima just nodded once and Seto couldn’t tap out fast enough.

CRYBABY: Here is your winner, “The Chairman Of Chaos” Locke Helms!

Helms refused to release the hold as the referee pleaded with him to let go. Helms ultimately did but he looked through the ropes at Ojima and then applied a Fujiwara arm bar to Seto!

HELMS: Come get him Reo! Come get your student or I will be taking his arm home with me! Come get him!

Ojima sat back in the chair, considering the decision. Seto was screaming in pain as Helms wrenched backward. Ojima crossed arms as if to say, “Go for it.” Helms looked very disappointed. So much so that he released the hold. Seto rolled out of harm’s way as Helms exited the ring. Ojima stood up and tossed the World Title over his shoulder.

Ojima and Helms came face to face, the cigar still sticking out of the champ’s mouth. Helms stared at the champion.

HELMS: It’s not fun if you don’t care.

With that Helms brushed past the champion and walked up the ramp. Ojima turned slightly to watch Helms disappear beyond the curtain. Seto made his way over to Ojima but wasn’t offered any kind of comfort from his teacher.

The ring was not set up for action. At least, not sanctioned competition. “Bad Mood” Ben Petrie, dressed in his finest blue jeans and a Weed Ladz t-shirt stood alone in the middle of the ring surrounded by bean bag chairs and a makeshift sign that read “Mood Ring”. Petrie didn’t seem like his usual self. He wasn’t cackling, he wasn’t frowning, he was...neutral.

PETRIE: Wrestling fans I’m not gonna waste any fuckin’ time out here right now. I’m Bad Mood, this is the Mood Ring. My guest tonight is “The Comedian” Allen Chaney.

“Shimmy Shimmy Ya” by ODB played and “The Comedian” Allen Chaney emerged from the back. He wasn’t set to wrestle tonight but to signal how seriously he was taking all of this he came out wearing a dirty t-shirt, pajama pants, and sneakers. Allen climbed into the ring and immediately got comfy in a beanbag chair, not bothering to shake Ben’s hand or do much of anything to even really acknowledge him. Allen grabbed a mic and looked over to Ben, finally giving him a “Well?” gesture.

PETRIE: Let’s get it out of the way -- why did you attack Matt Mears last week?

ALLEN: Wow. Solid question. Really hard-hitting stuff, Geraldo. I feel like I spelled it out pretty plainly but I can go over it again. I did it to pop a rating. People don’t watch NASCAR to see how fast cars can go. They watch for crashes. That’s the energy I bring to OATH. You can go on Youtube right now and search for Dale Earnhardt’s name. 100k views for him winning the Daytona 500 and MILLIONS of views for the crash that killed him. You can call it a tragedy but it’s a tragedy that people wanna see. It’s a tragedy that sold a lot of cheap plastic “In Memoriam” crap to idiot rednecks. How many people gave two tugs of a chode about Mike Mears-

PETRIE: MATT Mears.

ALLEN: Whatever. Was his name on the tip of anyone’s tongue before I stomped on his head? The numbers don’t lie, Bennie. YouTube views and ratings don’t lie. This is just the beginning of my Must-See Massacre.

PETRIE: Listen, I’ve got respect for what ya can do in the ring. You’re a tank. But Matt Mears does more for this business before breakfast than you will do in your entire career. You put your hands on him and that ain’t right. Just who the fuck do you think you are man?

ALLEN: I don’t know that I appreciate your tone, Benny. I feel like we’ve got off on the wrong foot. It’s not really a matter of who I think I am so much as what I know I can do...and what I can do is whatever I damn well please so long as no one in this company has the sack to stop me. If I’m being honest I’d probably stomp the concept of math out of your skull right now if I didn’t feel like I’d be playing that out too fast. Don’t want the people to lose interest.

You could practically hear Bad Mood grinding his teeth even though the microphone was in his hand at his side. Petrie resigned himself -- he’s no fighter. At least, not a good one.

PETRIE: So what’s next then tough guy? Gonna go attack the kid who sells popcorn? How about we go down to the old folks home and you can bust grandma’s false teeth! You’ve got no interest in fightin’ people who can fight back so I’m just a little curious as to who you’re gonna go after next.

Bad Mood seemed a little surprised at himself. This man assaulted his friend and put him on the shelf but Petrie was on thin ice talking to a man like Allen in this manner.

ALLEN: Way to bury all the “great” talent here in OATH, Ben. When I’m booked I show up and I win. Are those the people who “can’t fight back” that you’re referring to? As far as who I’m going after next? Well if Granny and the concessions guy are busy then I suppose my dance card is open. And as a favor to YOU I’ll promise the next person in my crosshairs will be someone who can fight back. Maybe that’ll get you to drop this holier than thou act and detach your lips from Mears’ jock.

The Comedian gave Petrie a look and it was very clear what that look meats. It very much said “I dare you to hit me”.

PETRIE: I ain’t holier than anybody but I know a coward when I see one. You’re gonna get yours Chaney. Someone bigger and badder is gonna come along and I’ll be there to laugh in yer fuckin’ face when it happens.

ALLEN: Then I guess it’ll be my pleasure to flex a bit of karma on you and do what you’ve done to several women...and leave you profoundly disappointed. Un-De-Feat-Ed. You, the fans, management, and everyone in the back can choke on all four of those syllables.

Allen stood from the beanbag chair and got right in Petrie’s face.

ALLEN: You’ll learn how this works soon enough just like everyone else will. This little chat right now with you? Just Setup. We still gotta get to the Punchline. Setup. Punchline.

There was a moment of silence and tension in anticipation of potential violence...and then Allen kissed Petrie right on the nose before dropping his microphone and falling down to roll out of the ring. He blew Ben a kiss and gave him the finger as he made his way to the back.

???: NO THAT’S NOT THE RIGHT ONE!

As those words were screamed out we cut to the back with Super Tiger and Volta nearing a locker room.

TIGER: I know we’re always having to find him, but you love our walks together.

Volta sort of nodded and nuzzled Super Tiger’s hand as they found the SKTLS locker room, but when they entered it looked completely different. The lighting was dim, there were gold mirrors all over the wall, a large black couch, and furry little black ottomans.

MINORU: I asked for a Double Peach Strong Zero and you brought me… Lemon? Are you an imbecile or are you purposely trying to poison me. Get out of here and don’t come back until you have the right drink, at exactly negative three degrees celsius.

The crew member nodded, turned, and looked ready to cry as he ran past Super Tiger.

TIGER: Uhm, what in the hell was that?

MINORU: Oh Tigs, Volt Volt, come on in, I uhm… We’ll say I like the look. It’s a little off the rackish for me but… Oh God Tiggy, you’re here, please smack the hell out of me as hard as you can… It’s a look that works for you.

TIGER: What is going on?

MINORU: Oh sit sit, not on the couch though, that’s only for the special people. Seriously, Risa, I need you to smack me back to my senses. The bitch is taking over.

TIGER: What did you say?

MINORU: I said that the help should be grateful I’m letting her sit with me and single handedly carrying this--

Super Tiger suddenly smacked Minoru hard across the face, leaving a bright red mark. He clutched his jaw.

MINORU: OWWWW FUCK! Thank you. I could see myself disappearing Risa. Once you start acting like that it’s so hard to stop. It’s like you completely lose who you are.

TIGER: Okay, what the hell happened to you? You were acting like one of those--

MINORU: --Social Elite bitches? That’s exactly it Tiggy. Remember how I said I couldn’t talk to them anymore on Twitter because it was causing my eyes, ears, and even anus to bleed?

TIGER: Unfortunately.

MINORU: So I said I would study footage of them and try to find a weakness. As much as I needed or could make it through without killing myself. Well after 5 minutes I discovered the absolute depths of them. Clothes, shoes, makeup, knock off champagne, and constantly acting superior even though you’re subpar wrestlers who only win with cheap tricks and rely on makeup and flashy clothes to hide the fact that without them you’re an Alabama seven with a horrible personality. Unfortunately learning that had a terrible side effect. I was slowly becoming one of them. I said five more minutes and I would know how to absolutely destroy them, but after two more minutes, I found myself becoming a wannabe.

TIGER: Did you figure out how we beat them for sure?

MINORU: Yes, I was able to find the answer.

TIGER: Was it difficult?

MINORU: Oh no, super easy, barely an inconvenience. We just have to go out there and out wrestle them. We are better wrestlers and a better team, we already have experience dealing with a team of cheaters and these ones aren’t nearly as smart as the ones we dealt with before. It’s not going to be easy, but as long as we focus and don’t let them get in our heads or get between us. That’s what they’re good at. If a mistake happens, we shrug it off, focus on wrestling and get control back.

TIGER: Right, remember that they’re morons and it’s the only real trick they have. Got it.

The crew member came back in, shaking as he walked toward Minoru with a Double Peach Strong Zero. Minoru sighed and shook his head, then looked at the man with a smile.

MINORU: Hey… Steve, I am really sorry about all of that earlier. That’s not who I am man.

STEVE: It was a little weird, you’re normally cool with us and know most of our names. It was like dealing with the socially inept.

Minoru started laughing and patted Steve on the back, then looked at Super Tiger.

MINORU: We gotta remember that one. You cool with me stealing that one, Steve?

STEVE: As long as they don’t know it came from me.

Minoru kind of shrugged then pulled out some money and handed it to Steve before grabbing his drink.

MINORU: Thanks for getting this man, I really appreciate it. Post match celebration drink.

He smiled then walked over to the fridge and put it inside as Steve nodded and headed off.

TIGER: Don’t worry there’s a Raspberry Lime Spindrift for you in there and Volta I have some of that fancy water you like.

Volta did a little happy wiggle as Minoru started explaining his recent ordeal in a bit more detail.

OATH TAG TEAM CHAMPIONSHIP TAG TEAM MATCH

Social Elite vs. Super Kawaii Thunder Liger Squadron ©

A match nearly a month in the making, Social Elite won the right to face the Tag Team Champions at Catalyst: Nightfall when they defeated The Crawfords. Last week they made their presence known to the champs.

LAST WEEK… Tanahashi was on the outside and he started to get to his feet. The Black Lion was set to reenter the ring when he was dropped! Glass and carbonated liquid exploded in the air around his head and the camera pulled out to show that he had been bottled by Angel Kash! Summer Page and Tiffany Lynn Page had come to the ring with Angel to take out Tanahashi! The number one contenders to the Tag Team titles shared some catty laughter as The Black Lion lay in a puddle of broken glass and champagne.

FINALE: Man I love tag team wrestling. I was a Tag Champ over in BWF up until recently.

PETRIE: Did a team with a small amount of talent come along and beat you?

FINALE: Yeah that’s pretty much what happened. BUT the OATH Tag Team Division is much tougher, as represented by the very talented champions, Super Duper Petting Zoo.

PETRIE: You know what the team is called.

FINALE: Yeah but I like busting Minoru’s balls.

Both teams made their entrances, SKTLS in their usual elaborate fashion. Angel Kash and Summer Page came to the ring without Tiffany Lynn Page. Anyone with half a brain would know that shenanigans were already afoot! SKTLS sure did. They stood in the ring, with Volta at ringside and Minoru whispered something to Super Tiger while making a sweeping gesture to the ringside area.

PETRIE: Tiffany Lynn Page doesn’t need to be out here for Social Elite to win. They are going to take these titles without her!

FINALE: Second time tonight that Tiffany hasn’t come out with a client. Kind of half assing it, isn’t she?

PETRIE: You really are a moron. It’s all part of the plan. You’ll see.

FINALE: Oh you’ve got the inside track on the Mean Girls eh?

PETRIE: I’m in a group text chain with them yeah.

Before the bell could sound both teams had the same idea when they went to double superkick their opponents! All four competitors missed and Angel chastised the champions. “Copycats!” Angel said right before she was caught with a dropkick from Super Tiger while Summer caught one from Tanahashi. Both members of Social Elite rolled to the outside and had exactly zero time to recover because SKTLS hit them with Daburu Aete Daibingu (Stereo Tope Suicida).

FINALE: Do you think that SKTLS are a little pissed off?

PETRIE: Black Sheep is at least. He got humiliated last week and he is terrifed that it will happen again. Most insecure guy on the roster!

SKTLS were quick to get Angel back in the ring and the referee finally called for the bell. SKTLS sent Angel into the ropes and on her return they hit her with a double hip toss. Angel sat right up but Super Tiger blasted her in the face with a basement dropkick! Tanahashi took his place on the apron as Tiger made the first pinfall attempt of the contest. Angel was rattled and Summer made the save by hammering Tiger in the back of the head -- just to be safe.

PETRIE: The Social Elite are taking no chances tonight. They have tightened up their game and I don’t think that SKTLS are ready for it.

FINALE: We’ve seen SKTLS adjust on the fly in the past. As a team they don’t make the same mistake twice. Hard to scout a team that is constantly improving and adjusting.

PETRIE: Every team should be doing that! Gotta stay fresh for fucks sake.

Summer dragged Angel over to the Social Elite corner then got on the apron briefly, just to accept the tag. Summer shot into the ring and hit Tiger right in the chin with a running high knee. Tiger was able to drop when Summer pulled her in to a sudden snap suplex. The Spoiled One rolled up to her feet and took a bow -- The Citadel did not like this. Summer made a bratty face and then dropped an elbow on Super Tiger before making a cover. 1--2! Tiger kicked out and Volta gave a happy honk from ringside.

FINALE: What the fuck is that thing?

PETRIE: Who? Fat Splinter? Yeah he just cosigns.

Summer got up again and was really taking issue with the boos from the crowd. This distraction gave Tiger time to get to her corner and when she was inches away Summer made a frantic play to stop the tag. She didn’t. Tanahashi hopped into the ring and caught her with a forearm smash to the face! Tanahashi smashed Summer with a palm strike and then planted her with Lion's Claw (Emerald Flowsion)! Tanahashi covered but didn’t even get a one count because Angel was in there to make the save with a running shin kick to the side of Tanahashi’s head.

FINALE: Referee has to have eyes on this shit. You are allowed to break up one pinfall in a tag team match. I know it’s referee’s discretion most of the time but fuck me.

As Summer did for her earlier, Angel helped Summer over to the Social Elite corner and accepted the tag. Angel darted toward Tanahashi and hit him with a pump kick. Tanahashi wanted to rally quickly but Angel surprised him with Buyout (Implant DDT)! Angel made the cover and screeched at the referee to count. He did. He did not count to three. Angel pounded on the mat in frustration and then went for Tanahashi’s eyes but the referee put a quick stop to that. Angel screamed in the referee’s face again and this gave Tanahashi time to tag in Super Tiger.

PETRIE: Angel! Focus on your opponent! Berate the zebra later!

FINALE: Yeah this is a bad move on Angel’s part. She just gave Tiger a wide opening. This is a tag team match Trillion Dollar Princess -- you’ve got two opponents.

PETRIE: Do not mansplain to her!

FINALE: Fucking what?

The Spoiled One tried to warn her partner from the apron but it was too late, Super Tiger hit a springboard into the ring and drove Angel’s head into the mat with a bulldog. The audience popped to the moon because Tiger got the HOT TAG! Summer slipped into the ring and went for Super Tiger but Tiger sidestepped her and shoved her into the ropes chest first! Summer fell backward and Tiger caught her with the snappiest of snap German suplexes. Summer rolled out of the ring and Angel was left alone with SKTLS! Tanahashi blasted Angel with Kabukicho Nights (Discus Clothesline) right into Tiger catching Angel with a prawn clutch for a two count.

Tanahashi cleared out of the ring and Tiger took a moment to get the measure of Angel. The Trillion Dollar Princess got to her feet but it took some doing. She had taken a lot of punishment. Tiger looked to dish out some more. Tiger cracked Angel with some roundhouse kicks and took her to the mat with a headscissor whip. Angel hit the ropes and Summer made a sneaky blind tag. Tiger leap frogged over Angel on her return but Summer was in the ring behind Tiger now. Angel came charging back and the Social Elite turned Tiger inside out with a high/low!

PETRIE: Hell yeah! Didn’t see that coming did you Tony Tiger?

FINALE: Rough joke man. Maybe that’s why you bombed as a comedian?

PETRIE: I headlined Casino Rama motherfucker. Where have you headlined?

FINALE: Madison Square Garden.

PETRIE: Never heard of it.

Tiger was laying on the mat after getting blindsided and the Social Elite had their opportunity. Angel and Summer raised Tiger up to her feet and then dropped her across the top rope with snake eyes. Tiger stumbled off of the ropes right into a Magic Killer from The Social Elite! Summer made the cover as Angel took off across the ring and smashed Minoru in the face, causing him to drop off the apron. The referee made the count but Super Tiger was able to shoot her shoulder off the mat just after two.

FINALE: Some shit is going down in the crowd. FORCE Security needs to check this out. A fan is trying to hop the barricade!

PETRIE: That is no fan. That is the insurance policy!

It was at this moment that we saw a turning point. The crowd’s attention was split as someone was trying to hop the guard rail. Tiffany Lynn Page, armed with a champagne bottle, was nearly over the railing when she was stopped by two fans? No! It was Erika and Nicky Crawford! The Crawfords had fallen victim to Social Elite’s bullshit in the past and they weren’t about to let it ruin this Tag Team Title Match! Erika and Nicky restrained Tiffany and then carried her to the back as she kicked and screamed.

PETRIE: Get your hands off of her, you dirtbags!

FINALE: The Crawfords are playing spoilers! Tiffany Lynn Page has been neutralized!

The two count and now their insurance policy being carted off had Summer having a hissy fit of her own. This frustration equated to her stomping the dogshit out of Super Tiger in frustration. Summer dragged Super Tiger over to the Social Elite corner but Tiger popped up, kicked at Summer’s hand to break her grip, took off toward the ropes and came back with a springboard moonsault that took Summer down to the mat. Tiger’s momentum carried her right back up to her feet and she fell back into the ropes to tag in Japan’s Most Shameless.

FINALE: Another HOT TAG!

PETRIE: Botch! That was unintentional! That was a lucky tag!

FINALE: Luck or not here comes The Black Lion!

Minoru flew into the ring and evaded a right cross from Summer before he took her over with a BIG TIME German suplex and Super Tiger cracked her with a shining wizard immediately after! Minoru covered but Angel was in the ring to break up the fall. Super Tiger hit Angel with a roundhouse kick and sent her sailing over the top rope to the floor with a thud. Tiger blocked a high knee from Summer and planted her with the Spicy Dragon Roll (Hammerlock Eat Defeat)! Tiger was instantly back up and she saw that Angel was up on the outside. Tiger gave a salute to the fans and then flew to the outside with a suicide dive onto Angel. Tanahashi hefted Summer up and planted Summer with the Black Lion Bomb (Tiger Driver 98)! Minoru covered Summer for the 1--2--3!

CRYBABY: Here are your winners, and STILL OATH Pro Wrestling Tag Team Champions, Minoru Tanahashi and Super Tiger, Super Kawaii Thunder Liger Squadron!

"Flyers" by Bradio kicked up and the fans popped big. Super Tiger had re-entered the ring with Volta, both she and Minoru fighting to catch their breath. The referee handed both of them their Tag Team Titles, tired smiles on their faces.

FINALE: A big victory for the Tag Team Champions! I’d wonder aloud about who their next opponents might be but I think that question is currently being answered!

A couple of figures made their way down to the ring, we see them as The Sweet Treats, now in their street clothes. Both Kallie Reznik and Alex Andrews slid into the ring, not taking their eyes off the champions. Slowly, SKTLS got to their feet and a few words were exchanged between the two teams.

FINALE: People have wanted this match for some time and it looks like we are going to get it.

If the intent wasn't already clear, Alex pointed to the belt hanging across Tiger's shoulder and nodded. Kallie smiled wide as well and it seemed Tiger and Minoru weren’t opposed to the idea. The two teams continued to look hard at one another before the camera faded to black.

We cut to what looked like security camera footage, but it was surprisingly clear and had full volume. The shot was inside The Brig where Leah Aguero sat in what is basically a jail cell. There was a call about a fan brawl at the southern third floor OATHShop. Sheldon Force slammed his fist down and took the two security guys with him, leaving The Brig unsupervised.

Leah sat there stoic, just watching the door. When the door moved, she straightened up, put her back against the wall, and watched as Matt Shields stepped inside. He tossed his jacket on a nearby chair, then grabbed it and set it upright in front of Leah’s cell.

SHIELDS: Now this isn’t how I wanted this meeting to go. I wanted us to have a nice civil conversation in Skybox 13. I had a nice meal set up. You like sushi, right? Who cares, I do and when we are done here, I’ll just go gorge myself.

Shields smirked then pulled out a lighter and a hand-rolled cigarette, definitely only tobacco. He lit up and blew a bit of smoke in Leah’s face. She just looked at him and spit, drawing some laughter from him.

SHIELDS: You got some serious fucking lady balls, I will give you that. You know you are on my bad side and yet you continue to piss me off and make things harder than they need to be. I was going to give you an out tonight. I was going to give you the chance to have your eyes opened. To show you that you mean nothing to that crusty old bastard. You ruined that though. Do you really think attacking me is going to earn you any points with him? Or are you doing this because you think it will keep him safe? Do you think if you piss me off so damn bad that I’ll forget about the fact he holds my sweet darling Blanche hostage? Is that fucking it? You already had to die first, bitch! I was going to be nice and offer you the chance to simply be beaten in a singles match to allow me to write the wrong that was you helping Ojima keep Blanche and me apart. I wasn’t even going to break your arms. Now though, now you have doomed yourself. Now you have to burn.

Shields went back over toward the door as Leah stood up, watching as he picked up a small can of gasoline. He started soaking the floor all around The Brig, the bars, splashing it on her chair, and the small bed attached to the wall.

AGUERO: What the hell are you doing Shields?

Shields tossed his cigarette near the gas and walked out of the room. An ember fell and started up a fire. Aguero was backing away as the flames moved in towards her. As the fire came closer Aguero pulled back her arm slightly as a bit of her hoodie was burned through.

The door was kicked open and FORCE Security rushed in with fire extinguishers. The fire was quickly snuffed out as Leah stood near the back of her cell, holding back her arm as she stared down at her charred hoodie. Force opened up the cell and as she came out it was clear that her arm had suffered a few burns. Outside, the maniacal laughter of Shields could be heard from down the hallway.

FORCE: Get that son of a bitch!

Two security members went chasing after Shields as Aguero stared out the door for a few seconds before she looked back down at her arm. Dr. Evelyn Ernest and her medical team were on the scene as the shot faded to black.

The camera opened to “The Queen of Fighters” Stephanie “Cloud” Matsuda leaning against the wall outside The Citadel. She had a winter coat over her ring attire and a black mask covering her mouth. Her body seemed relaxed and unbothered by the Canadian weather, as if she preferred the air outside rather than staying indoors for the moment.

MATSUDA: I’ve never said this before but I’ve always enjoyed Canadian winters. There’s something majestic about the Great White North when it’s covered in snow. It just feels...simplistic, like the whole country is at peace, despite feeling frigid loneliness. It’s kind of how I’ve been feeling since The Inevitable was no longer a thing - just a ronin wandering the cold, peaceful landscape of this industry. While I’ve reunited with an ally in another part of town, here in OATH I stand alone. Personally? I prefer it this way. I signed with this company to test myself against the best in the world, and Josie my dear you’re one of them. You proved time and time again why you’re in the top ten in this company, and right now you’re directly above me. Five and six destined to do battle in the ring. But beforehand, I was number seven in the rankings, which is an interesting number.

Stephanie collapsed her hands together for a moment before putting them back into her pocket.

MATSUDA: I’m not much of a Christian woman, but I can’t help but think about the seven gifts of the Holy Spirit. They are wisdom, understanding, counsel, fortitude, knowledge, piety, and fear of the Lord. While some Christans accept these as a definitive list of specific attributes, others understand them merely as examples of the Holy Spirit's work through the faithful. In this case, Fighting Spirit is delivering its works through me, the faithful. Fighting Spirit is a force that provides acts of piety such as bumping me up a slot so the Intrepid Champion and I can meet in the ring. Now, I will pass on two gifts to Josie Wales: the gift of knowing and understanding. From the moment that bell rings, Josie will know what it’s like to fight someone who is at the peak of her ability and by time she’s lying on her back, she’ll understand the disparity between us. The other week I lost Wrestleworld’s American Dream Championship during a cash-in and last night I replaced it with the SSW Intercontinental Championship. I’ve been called a belt hog and a world beater. Some say I don’t appreciate the promotions I work for nor put any pride to the belts that I wear. These are just words from those who don’t have what it takes to do what I do. And come tonight...the world will see what that is. YOU Josie Wales will see what that is. After all...I’m not the one that ate the pin in the 4-way match.

Stephanie leaned in with a grin.

MATSUDA: Give me your best Wales, and I’ll show you what it takes to go beyond. And once you know and understand what that means...you’ll finally believe and become one of the faithful. As pure as the Canadian landscape. Amen.

Stephanie nods at the camera and took her leave.

• MAIN EVENT•

OATH INTREPID CHAMPIONSHIP

SINGLES MATCH

Stephanie Matsuda vs. Josie Wales ©

Conviction XXII June 28th, 2020

Both Stephanie Matsuda and Josie Wales dug down deep and got up to their feet. All sense of sportsmanship was out the window as they started exchanging BOMBS. Matsuda won out in that exchange and then set Wales up for Blasian Suplex (Sleeper Suplex).

MEARS: Josie Wales’ attempt at a comeback run is about to be cut short!

As Matsuda went to lift Wales, Wales slipped behind her, rolled her up and the referee made the count. Wales pushed her feet against the mat for increased leverage and that did it as the referee made the three count.

“The Outlaw” got her hand raised and then the shot shifted to show Matsuda with a look of disbelief on her face. Wales left the ring unscathed, leaving Matsuda to ponder what went wrong.

It was time for the main event and the next chapter in the story of OATH’s most dedicated roster members. Matsuda made her entrance first and there was something different about “The Day One Pledge” Stephanie “Cloud” Matsuda tonight. She had several chances to become Intrepid Champion in the past but was unsuccessful.

FINALE: We’ve got a focussed Queen Of Fighters. She looks ready to go tonight Bad Mood. I guess losing that Number One Contenders Match last week left a bad taste in her mouth.

PETRIE: Wales was in that one too and she couldn’t win either. One of them is gonna be disappointed again here tonight.

“The Outlaw” came out and got a reaction that rivaled the pop that Matsuda got. The Intrepid Champion took her time coming to the ring, she was all confidence. Matsuda had never beaten Wales one on one and Wales knew that fact was burned into the psyche of Cloud.

FINALE: I’m feeling it Bad Mood. This one is gonna be special!

PETRIE: Yeah I’m fuckin’ aware. These two have been with OATH for a long ass time and I’m legitimately excited to see how this plays out.

FINALE: Have you turned over a new leaf? PETRIE: Fuck yourself.

The bell rang and the fifteen minute timer appeared on the tron. Neither competitor paid it any mind, they were both focussed on one another. The two met in the center of the ring and had themselves a private conversation -- in front of thousands. Wales said something that made Matsuda smiland the two started exchanging rights and lefts. The fans exploded as these two just started beating the dogshit out of each other right from the hop!

PETRIE: They aren’t waiting to fuckin’ go for it! They are beating each other like a good old fashioned prison yard scrap.

FINALE: Did you get into a lot of those when you were inside?

PETRIE: I was a trader. A facilitator. Others did my fighting for me.

FINALE: Ah. You had a special someone inside.

PETRIE: I miss Mark. I do.

Matsuda got the upperhand with a roundhouse kick to Wales’ dome and then took the champion down with an arm drag. Wales was quick up to a knee but Matsuda hit her with a shotgun dropkick that sent her flying into a corner. The audience popped as Matsuda moved in and kept Wales pinned in the corner with a flurry of big forearm smashes. Matsuda took a few steps back, pointed at Wales, then charged in and hit her with a leaping mosh pit elbow to the face. Wales staggered out of the corner and Matsuda took her down with an arm drag into a standing wrist lock.

FINALE: Cloud is trying to slow this match down which is a bit of an odd turn for here. I figured that would be Josie’s play.

PETRIE: Matsuda’s game plan didn’t work when they faced each other back in the Summer of 2020 so she’s gotta try something different. Probably won’t work.

FINALE: What makes you say that?

PETRIE: Listen guy, I may not like a lot of the wrestlers in OATH as people but I respect them as competitors. Matsuda is a choke artist. She regularly fails to win titles and when she does win them, she can’t hang on to them. That’s just the facts. Wales has been on a tear since returning and she knows for a fact that she can beat Matsuda.

Wales started to stand in an effort to get out of the hold but Matsuda kicked her in the spine. This did more to invigorate Wales than anything and the champion fought up to her feet. Wales shot Matsuda into the ropes but Cloud came back looking for a wheelbarrow into a bulldog but Wales held her up in the wheelbarrow position and then dropped the challenger neck first across the top rope.

FINALE: I’ve had this happen to me before. It sucks. You can’t catch your breath and when your opponent is laying into you it makes it so much harder to breathe. That and the damage to your neck -- it’s no fucking good.

The Queen Of Fighters was struggling to breath, grasping at her neck. She staggered to the middle of the ring and her mind was on breathing -- not on Wales. That proved to be bad news because The Outlaw took two steps forward and leaped up to plant Matsuda with a leaping ddt! Matsuda was driven into the mat on the crown of her head and Wales covered for a two count.

FINALE: Wales has honed in on Matsuda’s neck. This could be what leads to Matsuda’s downfall. A neck injury in the middle of the match can sign your death warrant.

PETRIE: The Outlaw knows that Matsuda is jacked up right now. She’s fucked. Matsuda needs to protect her neck.

FINALE: Wu Tang Forever.

PETRIE: What the fuck does that mean?

Eleven minutes remained as Wales had Matsuda grounded with a laying front chancery. Matsuda pushed up onto her left knee but Wales released the hold only to drop some heavy forearm shots to the back of Matsuda’s neck. Wales returned to the front chancery but Matsuda was able to stand. Matsuda got some payback with a throat thrust to Wales and then took off toward the ropes. On her return Matsuda looked to hit Last Surprise (Slingblade) but Wales caught her with a flapjack guillotine! Matsuda’s throat was dropped across the top rope again. Matsuda back peddled right into a high angle German suplex from the champion that saw Matsuda land awkwardly on the back of her neck.

FINALE: I’m glad this match has a time limit because I don’t know how much more of this Matsuda can stand. Wales is going to work.

At this point there were more than a few fans in The Citadel that were concerned for The Day One Pledge. Matsuda was clearly having trouble with her throat and neck -- the champion saw something to exploit. Matsuda was up but she was sucking wind. She tried to throw another roundhouse kick at Wales but Wales evaded it and pulled Matsuda back into a standing dragon sleeper. Matsuda did her utmost to fight out of it but before long Wales had taken her down to the mat with a dragon sleeper and got her hooks in. Matsuda was trapped as the clock read 7:29 -- half of the time had been depleted.

FINALE: We’re at the halfway mark Bad Mood. If the timer runs out then Wales wins and retains the title. How do you see the rest of this match playing out?

PETRIE: I mean if Matsuda isn’t severely injured then she still has an uphill battle. Wales is gonna do whatever she has to do to retain and if that means that she has to put Matsuda in a wheelchair -- well -- I think that is exactly what The Outlaw is gonna do.

Wales wrenched back as best she could and the referee was right there to ask Matsuda if she wanted to tap. To no one’s surprise, Matsuda screamed “NO!”. Wales had other plans and she wrenched back even harder. Knowing that she had to get out of this hold and quick. Matsuda started throwing some desperation elbows into both of Wales’ kidneys. The Outlaw was forced to break the hold and Matsuda popped up, leaped off the mat, and came down onto the champion’s stomach with a mushroom stomp.

FINALE: A brief reprieve for Stephanie Matsuda! She just stomped on Wales’ lunch! If Matsuda is lucky that cracked one of Wales’ ribs.

Both competitors were on the mat gasping for air and The Citadel was reaching a fever pitch. Wales was the first up to their feet and she glanced at the clock, less than five minutes left. All Wales had to do was survive to keep her title but that was not the way of The Outlaw. She wanted to put Matsuda away and leave no doubt. Wales, perhaps a bit too overzealous, moved in on Matsuda only for The Day One Pledge to blast her with Yahtzee! (Superkick)! Wales looked to be out on her feet when Matsuda took off for the ropes and hit the Cloud Drive (Springboard Moonsault Inverted DDT) for a near fall.

FINALE: And just like that Matsuda has turned the tide! Wales is on the defensive now but Matsuda needs to put her away fast. Not much time left.

PETRIE: That’s the thing with these Intrepid Title Matches. You’ve gotta beat the champion and you have to do it in the allotted time. That’s where people fuck up, they start rushing things and fucking up.

FINALE: That’s exactly it. Nice insight Bad Mood.

PETRIE: I am the lead announcer out here! Do not patronize me!

FINALE: Whatever you say big guy.

The momentum was back in Matsuda’s favor and she went for an Irish whip but Wales reversed her momentum with an arm wrench! Usually Josie would finish this hold off with a hook kick but with Matsuda doubled over Josie started smashing her in the back of the neck with forearm shots! Matsuda dropped to a knee and Wales saw her opportunity -- she quickly locked in Spirit Of St. Louis (Havana Dreams)!

PETRIE: Thanks for comin’ Cloud. It’s over.

Once again the referee was in Matsuda’s face, asking her if she wanted to give up. The glare that she shot at the referee told you everything that you needed to know. But Wales had the hold locked in tight and for a fleeting moment it looked like Cloud was going to submit but she went to Wales’ kidney again with some well placed elbows. Wales’ grip loosened just enough for Matsuda to break free into a high stack crucifix pin! Wales kicked out at two and popped up to her feet only for Matsuda to lay her out with her patented Blasian Suplex (Sleeper Suplex)! The audience popped because the match was for sure over! Matsuda covered. 1 -- 2 -- KICKOUT!

FINALE: Oh that’s just gotta crush Matsuda’s resolve. Wales just kicked out of her best shot!

PETRIE: Josie Wales has been on another level since coming back late last year. She took out the dominant FM Young to win this title and she ain’t about to let it go quietly.

FINALE: What a match so far. What is it going to take? PETRIE: We’re gonna go the distance. I can see it.

Josie just barely, barely kicked out. Matsuda could not believe it. Not only did Wales kick out but she was back up to her feet. Wales said something to Matsuda and immediately the two started hitting each other with BOMBS! Sensing a pattern here? Matsuda got a good shot in and then sent Wales into the ropes and when the champion came trotting back she hit Matsuda with her own move -- Last Surprise (Sling Blade)! Matsuda landed on her neck again and let out in pain. The clock read 1:32 and Wales wanted to put Matsuda away now. Wales gathered the challenger up and within a second she had planted Cloud with the Rio Lobo Driver (Quackendriver III)! The champion was set to retain when she covered. 1 -- 2 -- KICKOUT!

FINALE: You have got to be fucking kidding me!

PETRIE: Hell yeah. Tit for tat. Wales kicked out of the Blasian Suplex and now MAtsuda has kicked out of the Rio Lobo Driver.

The Outlaw was mystified but undeterred. If one wouldn’t get the job done, then two for sure would. Wales gathered the seemingly lifeless Matsuda up and went for a second Rio Lobo Driver (Quackendriver III) but Matsuda slipped behind her and hit Blasian Suplex (Sleeper Suplex)! Wales was planted and the clock read 0:22! Matsuda had to move fast and that is just what she did. Matsuda climbed to the top rope, somewhat slowly due to her neck issues, and then hit Cloud 9 (Corkscrew Shooting Star) onto the champion. Matsuda hooked the leg. 1 -- 2 -- 3!

CRYBABY: Here is your winner, and NEW OATH Pro Wrestling Intrepid Champion, “The Queen Of Fighters” Stephanie Matsuda!

"Oh La La" by Run the Jewels began playing as the referee collected the Intrepid Championship from a ring crew member. Matsuda was up on her knees, holding the back of her neck. The referee approached the new champion and handed her the championship. Matsuda took the title and then gazed into the faceplate for a moment before cradling the title in her arms.

FINALE: Stephanie Matsuda has done it! First ever Tag Team Champion, former Tabula Rasa Champion, and now Intrepid Champion! She’s gotta be stoked Bad Mood.

PETRIE: Hell of a match. I didn’t think that they’d get it done within the time limit but here we fuckin’ are.

FINALE: We need to see the rubber match. They sit at one win a piece but I want to see who is really the best.

PETRIE: Straker knows what is best for business. He’ll book a rematch because there isn’t a person on the planet that doesn’t want to see -- aw for fucks sake!

The outbrts was from Bad Mood was prompted by a figure having entered the ring! “The Comedian” Allen Chaney stood behind Matsuda as she celebrated her title victory. Some fans in the front row tried to warn Matsuda and when she turned around to face the danger she was blasted with The Set Up (Short Arm Clothesline) from Chaney!

PETRIE: This fuckin’ guy. He doesn’t know when to quit!

FINALE: Allen Chaney has ruined Stephanie Matsuda’s big moment.

Chaney hefted Matsuda up to her feet and then looked over at Petrie and waved! Bad Mood couldn’t look more pissed off -- which is saying a lot. Chaney set Matsuda up for The Punchline (Awful Waffle) but out of nowhere was blasted with a jumping crescent kick from Wales! Chaney let go of Matsuda, dropped, and immediately rolled out of the ring!

PETRIE: How do you like that you sorry motherfucker?

The Comedian paid no mind to Petrie, his eyes were fixed on Wales and Matsuda. The Outlaw stood guard of the downed Cloud and then challenged Chaney to get back in the ring and fight but The Comedian thought better of it and just took a seat on the ramp, laughing to himself as Conviction 45 went off the air.

---

Results: • Cassidy Kane & Sweet Treats def. The Hell Realm

• Johnny Draco def. Jonathan Cage

• Locke Helms def. King Kong Seto

• Super Kawaii Thunder Liger Squadron def. Social Elite; Still Tag Team Champions

• Stephanie Matsuda def. Josie Wales; New Intrepid Champion