CONVICTION XXX RESULTS

Episode XXX August 30th, 2020 The Citadel in Toronto, Ontario

"Surprised to see me?"

A muffled but familiar voice echoed out from...wherever we were, because it was so dark save for one spotlight that we couldn't exactly tell. A pair of boots clop-clop-clopped until standing in the middle of the spotlight was Erik Holland, and we only know this because he looked...familiar, but in a new way. His hair was short and cropped into a flat mohawk again, and dyed black--he appeared to be completely clad in black leather, with a duster-type coat over the bodysuit he was wearing. We couldn't really tell what his facial expressions were either, as his face was completely hidden by a pair of welder's goggles and a black bandanna tied around his mouth and nose.

HOLLAND: I've gone under a couple of metamorphoses lately and I think my fans deserve an explanation--exactly because they have recently not fit into the equation. I have made a mistake, my people, and for that I come to you contrite. I did not think of what you wanted. I was consumed by hate. Corrupted by my hatred, corrupted by losing the OATH World Championship I then became the...thing...that you saw. I manifested my hate into a physical change and it did not accomplish much of anything for me.

Holland calmly had his arms crossed in front of him, as if he were discussing the weather.

HOLLAND: You did not want me to hate. You have never needed me to HATE. You have seen me as something paracausal, something that ignores cause-and-effect, something that simply IS, despite all forces around me attempting to influence and affect me. You have seen me as something violent not because I have no choice, not because I am so torn up with rage that violence is my only answer--but, SIMPLY, so SIMPLY...because I always have been violent. You have seen me for what I am, my people, and I am ashamed I didn't listen to you earlier. I seek your forgiveness."

Holland spread his arms now out, bowing his head.

HOLLAND: But I know that I have such already, because we have had an inseparable bond all these years. Passion has strained time and again but I have found my way back to you, and each time you have demanded better of me. I will rise to what you demand, and what you now demand? Is that I destroy ONI. Whether I've got James Edwards and the Runaways watching my back or not. YOU DEMAND...that I bring you the heads of ONI and so it will be. OUR BOND is what led me to the top of this unforgiving and bloody mountain...

Erik reached up and sat the goggles on his forehead, showing he was still wearing those frightening pale contacts.

HOLLAND: ...and so it will be.

"The Burning Heart" by James Edwards sat in front of his locker, a brown paper bag at his feet, and a white cotton bandage on his hand.

EDWARDS: I'm sorry, Reo.

The viewers at home and the camera crew had to think that he was joking.

EDWARDS: I get you may not understand why I'm apologizing, and that's okay, I didn't have the opportunity to explain last week when you interrupted me, which I understand why you did, trust me I do, and I don't blame you. You're angry with me, champ. I'm sorry.

'Okay, so maybe Edwards is serious,' they thought.

EDWARDS: I almost blew our fight for Event Horizon, the biggest one of the year! I insulted you by going after a lesser title and a lesser man. I got hurt and could have gotten hurt a helluva lot worse. I'm still not healthy, and what fun is a fight like that? You're a champion that likes to fight, and you're looking for the right person to challenge you and give you the challenge that a champion like you deserves without all the bullshit someone like Josie Wales or Erik Holland brings to the ring. I could've been that guy, and I almost blew it. I'm sorry.

Forget being serious; the audience thought he was nuts.

EDWARDS: It's why you had to punish me. It's why you had to give me this, and I'm sorry about that.

Edwards held up his hand and removed the bandage. He revealed a perfect circle on his hand. The skin was shiny, tight, and light brown in color.

EDWARDS: I have a lot to make up to you, Reo, and tonight is only the beginning, friend.

He cracked a genuine, lovely smile, one devoid of the madness many believed him to be suffering from.

TAG TEAM MATCH The Hell Realm vs. Mancini Syndicate

First match was some motherfucking tag team action. Former OATH Tag Team Champions, Adrestia Nyx and Ryan Terror, The Hell Realm came to the ring with Monstruo stalking behind them. The Mancini Syndicate were out next with Viola Mancini leading the way and Janica Jayden trailing behind her. This was the first meeting between the two teams so let’s hope that there was magic! (There was, kinda.)

Jayden started the match against Nyx and they traded some strikes back and forth before Jayden took her over with a snapmare and then blasted her with a dropkick to the back of the head. Jayden tagged in Mancini and Mancini held Nyx in the corner.

MEARS: You have to believe that the winning team here would find themselves in line for an OATH Tag Team Title match.

PETRIE: Yeah maybe. ONI defends when they want to. They would need to find the winners worthy!

MEARS: I do not know that it is their decision.

PETRIE: Then you aren’t paying attention Mears.

Jayden charged in and hit Nyx with a Yakuza kick. Mancini entered the ring and charged at Nyx in the corner where she hit her with a corner clothesline. Mancini stayed perched on the middle rope and then drew Nyx out of the corner with a great big bad bulldog. Mancini covered but Nyx was able to kick out.

Mancini got Nyx up to her feet but Nyx broke Mancini’s grip and was able to hit La Capa with Knuckles, Bitch (Multiple slaps and chops followed by a spinning back fist)! Mancini dropped and Nyx was able to make her way to her corner to tag in Terror.

PETRIE: Hell Realm are the more experienced team. They are the former champions. The Syndicate is going to have to put in some WORK to win this one.

MEARS: I do not disagree. Hell Realm have been treading water since losing the titles but perhaps a victory tonight could send them straight toward a second title reign.

PETRIE: Damn that would be sick! Hell Realm Forever!

Monstruo grunted in approval from the outside as Terror got Mancini up and whipped her into the ropes. On Mancini’s return Terror hoisted Mancini up with a flapjack and Nyx was able to get into position to complete The Protocol (Dudley Death Drop) double team. Terror covered. 1.. 2.. !

The Godmother was able to kick out and the audience just wasn’t sure whose side they were on at this point. Terror tried to keep Mancini grounded with some stiff shots but Mancini bucked him off and went to make the tag. Terror grabbed her foot but Mancini cracked him with an enziguiri.

MEARS: The Godmother is really showing some heart here tonight.

PETRIE: That nickname makes her sound old as fuck.

Terror tried to prevent Mancini from getting to her corner but Mancini caught him with a lungblower! Terror staggered around the ring gasping for breath before Mancini cracked him with a Windmill Kick (RVD Style)! Terror fell back into his corner but Nyx was able to make the tag.

Mancini crawled to make the tag to Jayden but Nyx was quickly back in the ring and she hit a sliding elbow to Mancini’s lower back. After an absolute onslaught of strikes, Nyx got Mancini up and hit her with a textbook (depending on which textbook you are reading) Phoenix Twist (Rolling Cutter)! Nyx made the cover. 1.. 2.. ! Jayden entered the ring and broke up the pinfall.

MEARS: Adrestia Nyx with the near fall!

Doing his part to try and protect his partner, Terror charged across the ring and Jayden but she low bridged the top rope and he spilled over the top rope and fell onto the apron before landing on the outside. Jayden then shot over the top rope with a vaulting body press, landing on Terror.

Nyx got to her feet and hit the ropes. She came charging back at Mancini but Mancini was faster. The Godmother got Nyx up and planted her with a pendulum backbreaker and reverse DDT combo! Nyx was rocked and that gave Mancini the opportunity to hit the Concrete Stiletto (Running Curbstomp). Mancini covered. 1.. 2.. 3!

Winners: Mancini Syndicate

We cut to outside The Citadel, what looked to be the loading dock where Matt Shields was pacing back and forth, dragging his kendo stick along in his left hand while his right held a small cigar. He looked to be in deep conversation as the feed switched to a more high definition view complete with audio.

SHIELDS: Blanche, poor poor Blanche. You have been so quiet the last few days, I can only imagine what terrible things you have had to endure and see. I hope your special case comes soon. Titanium housing, vented of course because we can’t have you suffocating, but the vents do have a microscopic hypoallergenic dust filter so nothing will get to you. The inside is lined with velvet and silk to caress you. It’s a true beauty, for true beauty. I just wish I could talk to you right now.

He suddenly slammed the kendo stick down on to the ground and shook his head as he stopped pacing and sat down against the wall. He hung his head as he brought the cigar up and took a puff. But then his head fired upwards and his eyes grew wide while he seemed on the verge of tears.

SHIELDS: There you are my sweet golden girl. It’s so good to hear your voice. So I think I know how to rescue you. Tonight after we beat the meth heads, the bleeding heart and that big dumb gorilla bitch Holland, I’ll kick Ojima in the balls and drop him with Hellhounds Bite. Then at Event Horizon, I pay Holland back for all the horrible unspeakable vile things he put you through, and then make sure Ojima keeps the title. Which reminds me, I’m gonna have to ramp things up against Holland and make sure that I can still be able to make sure Ojima wins after that match. Sure Holland is big and stupid and disgusting and has horrible taste in women, and the personal hygiene of a water buffalo, but he’s tough as and dangerous as fuck. If I do all that though, I can get Ojima to give me my title match, win, and rescue you from his nefarious clutches.

He started to nod and smiled, but then stopped and turns his head to the side.

SHIELDS: But...

He stopped, scratched his head, gave a slight nod, and then started shaking his head again.

SHIELDS: No. No no no Blanche, I could never ask you to put yourself through that. Yes, I know that I have to be focused on Holland going into this match. I know that he deserves to be destroyed and disfigured for what he put you through. I know that he deserves to have his fucking arm broken for what he did to you. Blanche, I know that he deserves to bloodied and beaten for all of the awful things he made you endure. I promise you, I will get retribution for you. I will enact veng… no, justice for you Blanche. I can do that and carry through this rescue mission at the same time though, I promise

He stopped and looked upwards, then let his kendo stick slip from his grip as he moved his hand up to his forehead, slowly rubbing as he sighed and then just nodded.

SHIELDS: Okay Blanche, if you are certain you are okay with it, then we will do things your way. I will keep my focus on Holland one hundred percent tonight, play with his head in the eight-man tag a bit, start the beating tonight, and it at Event Horizon, leave him laying and if that earns me a shot, I take it, If not, I find another so-called monster and take them out or maybe someone that has been a thorn in ONI’s back. If we’re waiting until the time is right, why not work with the most powerful people in the company. It wouldn’t be like I would lie to him. I would warn him straight up that I am coming for that title. I have certainly not made my desires secret. I will rescue you and give you the proper home you truly deserve. I do hope he receives and uses your special case soon though. The thought of you just tossed haphazardly into a chair or gym back is sickening. It makes me want to attack Ojima more, but no, this is a good plan Blanche, my sweet genius golden girl.

He smiled, stood up, tossed down his cigar, picked up his kendo stick, and then grabbed an ONI shirt out of a conveniently placed box of merchandise. He tossed it over his shoulder and nodded.

SHIELDS: Wearing the shirt, my gifts for them for after the show, should show a bit of unity, right? Definitely gonna be more of a cohesive unit then the four walking talking rejected sperm samples across the ring from us. And if they don’t wanna play nice, well there’s always plan B, right Blanche?

He smirked and laughed a bit as he opened the door and walked inside.

El Diablo Blanco was walking around The Citadel, attempting to remain incognito; except for the fact that he was wearing a red sleeveless hoodie that still exposed the horns on his mask and his signature Zubaz pants. As he walked past the concession stand, he could see two young fans bickering at each other. As El D looked closer he could see one fan sporting a pair of Zubaz shorts himself along with a homemade t-shirt with ‘El D’ written on it in Duct Tape. The other fan was sporting an ‘Ode to the Outlaw’ JC Keeton shirt. El Diablo just took a moment to sit back and watch as the bickering unfolded.

KEETON FAN: Listen, Bro. If El Dorko hadn’t come down ringside last week at Livewire, JC would’ve wiped the mat clean with Qiyanna Marshal. That’s just facts, Bro.

EL D FAN: El Diablo didn’t even get involved though. JC is his friend. He wanted to get a closer look. That’s all it was. It’s not like he was out there to cost him the match.

KEETON FAN: JC feels sorry for the dweeb, Bro. Get it through your head. He’s a joke and the sooner he’s out of OATH the better. Besides, OATH already has El Caliente Loco as it is. One masked joke guy is enough.

EL D FAN: The fact that you can’t see just how awesome El Diablo is baffles me. He’s the voice of the people. He stands up for people like us.

KEETON FAN: Really, Bro? People like us? People like you maybe but I’m no dweeb. You want to talk about awesomeness. JC is the best there is. You’re a bigger dork than I thought to believe the bullcrap that taco eating nimrod spews.

The young Keeton Fan shoved the El Diablo Blanco fan to the ground and laughed. Just as the Keeton fan was ready to torment the kid more, El D stepped in offering a hand to the young fan. He then pulled the hoodie back to expose his full mask.

BLANCO: Now, now my Little Diablitos. This is no way to treat each other. We are all entitled to our own opinions and have the freedom to express said opinions. It is not, however, cool to get into physical altercations over said beliefs.

KEETON FAN: Isn’t that what wrestling is, Bro? Two guys have beef and they settle it in the ring.

BLANCO: Does ‘Don’t Try This At Home’ mean anything to you my Little Diablito Brother? What we do in the ring has rules. What we have is a system that sets limitations to the extent in which one goes. Otherwise, someone can get incredibly hurt.

The JC Keeton Fan just took a sip from his litre of soda.

KEETON FAN: Whatever. You’re just some nerd anyways. You’ll never get anywhere. Not like JC. You’re just not worth my time.

The Keeton fan left as El Diablo focussed on his fan.

BLANCO: Are you okay, Little Brother? Are you hurt at all?

EL D FAN: I’ll be alright. I’m used to it anyways. I get pushed around a lot. It’s why I’m such a big fan of yours. Even if people try to push you around you don’t let it get you down. You just keep fighting. You’re an inspiration.

BLANCO: Aw shucks, Little Brother. That means a lot to me. You know, it doesn’t make it right to accept the fact that you get pushed around. You need to rise to the occasion. Sure, he probably weighed twice as much as you, stood a foot taller and could pummel you in one punch but it’s when we stand up for what we believe in that we’re really the bigger person. Diggit?

EL D FAN: I guess.

BLANCO: Well, take tonight for example. I went for a little walk to clear my head before tonight’s match against Josie Wales. Much like others, before we first got in the ring together, she trashed El D’s good name. She thought I was a joke all because of how I dress and how I talk. The sister didn’t get it. She trashed my style and tried to make a mockery of me. Do you remember what happened?

EL D FAN: You got beat… by a submission… you tapped out.

BLANCO: That’s right, I kept fighting, Little Brother. Despite all the verbal abuse, I shoved that aside because no one in this world can define you but yourself. Your worth to society is defined by your self-worth. Just because someone labels you as something, it doesn’t mean that’s what you are.

As El Diablo was talking to the young fan, he started to take a bite out of a burrito.

EL D FAN: Where’d the burrito come from?

BLANCO: This? It came from my pocket. I always keep one or two handy. I got one in my other pocket. Want one?

The El Diablo Blanco fan shook his head in disgust to a burrito being housed in someone’s pocket.

BLANCO: Anyways, tonight I get a shot at redemption. Even if Josie Wales doesn’t speak it out into the atmosphere, I earned a bit of her respect. You know, Little Brother, respect is a powerful thing. If you respect others, they respect you. If you respect yourself, then you can do anything. Tonight ain’t no submission match, Little Brother. No, tonight, we don’t have those limitations set upon us. Tonight, El Diablo Blanco is going to channel all the energy from the Diablo Nation and vanquish The Outlaw Josie Wales.

EL D FAN: I know you will, El D. We believe in you.

BLANCO: Why thank you, Little Brother. Now don’t forget, after the show, be sure to have your parents take you out for delicious Flaming Diablo Burrito. I know of a great location over at 444 Yonge St. You should try it.

The El Diablo fan just shot El D an odd look as he turned around and headed back away from the concession area to go back to his seat.

SINGLES MATCH El Diablo Blanco vs. Josie Wales

The next match was a rematch from some weeks ago. The last time that the leader of Diablo Nation, El Diablo Blanco took on The Outlaw Josie Wales it was for the Tabula Rasa Championship in a submission match and Wales was able to secure the victory. But that was likely only because El D was not proficient in submissions! Many believe that had it been a regular match, El D would have been able to pull off the victory. Well to all of you who think that -- let’s see if you were right.

El D got a massive reaction from The Citadel because he’s fucking awesome. He came through the crowd because he’s a champion of the people. The Diablo Nation was beside themselves with love for El D as he hopped the barricade and slipped into the ring. Wales got a decent response but the fans are likely waiting to see how her match with Jenna Sharpe turned out at Event Horizon II to really decide what they think about her. No one is sure which one is the good guy so they’ll likely just side with whomever is winning. Goddamn bandwagoners.

PETRIE: Mears may I ask you a question?

MEARS: Yes.

PETRIE: Why does El D even try?

MEARS: Are you serious?

PETRIE: I really don’t get it.

This one started with Wales just jumping El D. She fed him a couple of shots to his big Dad gut and that rattled the dude. Wales then took El D down with a snapmare and applied a chin lock, grinding her knee into his spine. El D didn’t scream, he drew strength from the Diablo Nation who was chanting his name. El D started to fight up and with every passing second the applause from Toronto grew.

El D played to the crowd the best he could and drove an elbow into Wales’ midsection. She didn’t break the hold so El D fed her another one. Then another. Finally the hold was broken and El D hit the ropes and cracked Wales with a clothesline. Wales powdered to the outside and El D chose not to follow. A match is won in the ring and El D is a man of fucking virtue.

PETRIE: He really needs to learn the finer points of wrestling. The nuances.

MEARS: You mean cheating?

PETRIE: Yeah.

Wales paced around the outside and collected herself before reentering the ring. El D gave her all of the space that she needed because he is a good fucking dude. The two locked up again and El D went for an arm drag but Wales stopped his momentum and knee’d him in the back of the head. Wales then applied a standing wrist lock.

Knowing that he couldn’t match Wales when it came to submissions, El D reached for the ropes as fast as he could. Due to his power advantage, El D was able to get to the ropes and the referee forced Wales to break the hold. As El D stood, Wales spun him around and planted him with Sundance Neckbreaker (Overdrive)! Wales covered. 1.. 2.. !

PETRIE: The guy just keeps losing. He’s a loser!

MEARS: The Diablo Nation doesn’t seem to think so.

PETRIE: They are laughing AT him.

MEARS: I do not believe that they are. They love what he stands for. He’s a great role model.

PETRIE: For losers!

El D kicked out and the Diablo Nation was trying to will him on. El D got to his feet but Wales was there to meet him again with a running forearm smash that knocked him back into the corner. El D I guess took that as a wake up call because he exploded out of the corner and hit Wales with the sloppiest dropkick you’ve ever seen. But here’s the thing, it connected and it was effective so fuck you.

El D then stood above Wales and went for the Backyard Elbow, which also connected! Instead of covering, El D ascended to the top rope and went for the Feeling Froggy (Frog Splash) but played to the Diablo Nation for far too long while on the top rope. When he took flight Wales was instantly out of the way and El D just ate canvas.

PETRIE: Josie Wales is so much better than El Doofus. Why does she have to beat him...again?

MEARS: Because that is what Mr. Straker booked. Clearly he sees something in El D. Perhaps he is trying to keep him away from Bellamy Parteabon. Because she does not like him.

PETRIE: Yeah! She’s intelligent!

El Presidente of Diablo Nation was right back up but Wales cracked him with a bicycle kick. It seemed like Wales was ready for the end but coming down the ramp was “The Canadian Wildcat” Jenna Sharpe! Wales was no longer concerned with El D as she shouted at Jenna from the ring.

El D found himself in a moral predicament. He could easily get a cheap shot in on Wales to maybe get the edge but her back was turned and that’s not fair. El D is a moral luchador. Wales kept yelling at Jenna and Jenna returned her barbs.

MEARS: It seems that Jenna is not going to get involved. Not in the way that Josie did in Jenna’s match with Zeke Davis last week.

PETRIE: Maybe she was going to but she got spotted!

The Diablo Nation was cheering for El D to take his shot but he refused. El D spun Wales around but she was quicker and she hit him with a fireman’s carry flapjack onto the top turnbuckle. Wales then hauled El D up and planted him with Rio Lobo Driver (Quackendriver 3)! Wales covered. 1.. 2.. 3!

Winner: Josie Wales

As soon as the bell rang Jenna was into the ring and she started brawling with Wales. The two were rolling around the ring exchanging shots as security flooded the ring, looking to prevent any serious injury! The security guards were able to separate the two women.

PETRIE: Get out of the ring El Dickhead. You don’t deserve to be there!

El D sat in the ring, thinking about another loss. The Diablo Nation still gave him a standing ovation because he’s the fucking best and he didn’t trade in his morals for one victory. Good on you El D. El D stood and took in the reaction, he threw one arm in the air to let everyone know that he wasn’t finished. Not yet.

The camera cut to The Citadel parking lot. There was one of those obnoxious claxons ringing in the air signaling some type of work vehicle was backing up. When the shot pulled out to reveal the full parking lot a garbage truck was seen backing up into place. It pulled up right next to a gray, black and purple 2014 Ducati Diavel. The bike was obviously custom painted, in good shape and well cared for. It also happened to be the personal motorcycle of FM Young. After a moment a garbage truck pulled to a stop, the hulking beast Monstruo and the spooky luchador Astaroth of the Hell Realm both hopped off the rear deck position and made their way over to the motorcycle.

The camera panned back up to the driver’s seat to reveal OATH Interpid Champion, Locke Helms.

HELMS: It is tradition in my house, that the appetizers of one's meal may be served hot or cold...but the table that I set contains only the finest of suffering. Ergo, I must say that last week I did not set out a good enough plate...Boys? Let us be proper hosts!

As Helms finished speaking the camera panned out back to the rear deck position of the truck to find Monstruo and Astaroth hoisting the Diavel up between them. It took the pair a couple of tries to swing the motorcycle into the back of the garbage truck but they eventually made it happen. Helms could be heard laughing just as the mechanism in the back of the truck itself started and the squealing of metal on metal started.

HELMS: However, I must admit to you boys as a man that works on motorcycles...I find myself oddly bothered by this action.

Helms then made a mock “thoughtful” motion before he waved it off airily.

HELMS: But then again, I don't feel that bad. It is just a Ducati after all.

There was a bunch of rumbling and metal grinding, the sounds of ripping and tearing as the camera panned around again to find FM Young staring completely and utterly gobstopped at the truck, looking a combination of panicked and insanely irate.

FM: OH YOU’VE GOT TO BE FUCKING KIDDING ME.

HELMS: AH, MISS YOUNG! So good to see you, I do hope you enjoy this latest hor d'oeuvre before the main course!

Grinning, Helms gave a rather cheery wave from the driver’s seat and then he put the truck in gear as the back finished doing its cycle, the bike just a ball of twisted metal in the back, entirely bent and wrecked. All disparate pieces of motorcycle and twisted frame, were unrecognizable as having been one thing. Helms drove out of the parking lot, his work done, still laughing and grinning away. Monstruo barely made it back up to the rare deck, grabbing on and holding as the truck hit gear and left.

We returned to the parking lot and the garbage truck had fled. Astaroth however was not so lucky and did not manage to grab back onto the truck to make his escape. He was left face to mask with an incredibly seething, jaw twitching FM Young. She looked every inch the tiger she was, right then in her fury. If Astaroth's mask didn't cover his facial expressions, his eyebrows might have been trying to do their level best to escape his mask and go sailing off his forehead. The lackey of Hell Realm might have, in that moment, started to regret some recent life choices but that’s really not for me to say.

All that could be said is that he blinked stupidly and took a few steps away from the growling woman, and when walking backward proved too slow he turned around and legged it. Thus started a chase that you could probably put Yakety Sax over or the Scooby-Doo music to. The spooky luchador ran headfirst into several boxes, knocking them over and into his path to put distance between the person chasing him. Young for her part, lept over boxes, shouldered doors aside, struggled through curtains, doing anything and everything in a single-minded focus to get her hands on the member of Hell Realm so close.

The chase eventually led through The Citadel, about a half dozen super startled workers and stagehands, several more cameramen, including the one filming. The camera man was actively wheezing as he sprinted to keep up with the chase. Quickly the camera showed the gorilla position into the main auditorium and out to ringside. Astaroth booked it down the ramp with Young nipping at his heels, hopping up into the ring and almost through it.

SINGLES MATCH Astaroth vs. FM Young

With both of the competitors in the ring the referee just shrugged and called for the bell. Astaroth had nowhere to go so he rushed at Young only for the One Woman Army to level him with a clothesline. Astaroth was folded up like a sheet and Young stalked him menacingly. MEARS: Here is an idea; why not destroy the most prized possession of one of the most dangerous members of the roster just moments before you are set to face them in a match. PETRIE: Why the hell would you do that? MEARS: Ask Mr. Astaroth.

Did Young just want to send a message to Locke Helms before their Intrepid Title Match at Event Horizon II or was she trying to murder Astaroth for his role in destroying her Ducati? Probably a little bit of both. Astaroth got to his feet and Young was there to meet him with the Man-Machine Interface (Discus Clothesline)! PETRIE: I like Helms & Co. but it's pretty funny that Astaroth got left behind. Like... was he just gonna not wrestle the match he was scheduled for?

MEARS: I suppose that was the plan. PETRIE: What a competitor!

Astaroth could have been pinned at any moment but Young wanted her pound of flesh. The spooky luchador was no longer in the 416 area code mentally but Young didn't care. If the referee was worth his salt he probably would have ended this one here but he was likely afraid of what Young would do to him if he intervened. Valor.

PETRIE: Question. MEARS: Shoot. PETRIE: If Young murders Astaroth... will she be arrested. MEARS: Perhaps. But she'll likely be released due to lack of evidence. PETRIE: Not even this televised program? MEARS: Inadmissible.

The Hell Realm representative was barely able to stand when Young grabbed him and slapped him in the face a half dozen times. Young then lifted him up and dropped him with Stand Alone Complex (Elevated Gutbuster). Astaroth screamed in pain and Young reacted like she was hearing her favourite song. I think it's Funky Town, could be wrong.

PETRIE: This is starting to get sad. Poor Spooky Luchador.

There were some in the crowd that were all "Stop! Stop! He's already dead!" but more for comedic effect than anything. Either way, Young didn't give a shit because she grabbed el spooky and hit him with Heart of the Phoenix (Lumbar Check). MEARS: That should be it! PETRIE: I'm thinking it won't be. Not because Astaroth is resilient but because Young ain't done.

Astaroth bent horrifically in half from that move but Young was still not satisfied! The ghost of Mexican Halloween needed to suffer MORE! Young hauled him up one more time and on this occasion she planted him with Human Error Processor (Assault Driver). Young then placed one finger on Astaroth's chest as she motioned for a championship around her waist with the other hand. 1.. 2.. 3! No shit.

Winner: FM Young

Young got Astaroth up and dumped him over the top rope. Astaroth landed on the floor with a thud and then Young looked up at the Event Horizon II banner as we cut to a commercial for natural male enhancement.

"Liquid Swords" by GZA started to bounce the house as the CWA Tag Team Champions, The Runaways waltzed out from the back back with ladders over their shoulders, titles around their waists and Bert Cocaine trailing behind, carrying a ladder much shorter than that of his cohorts. Instead of the regular bathrobe tonight Bert struggled to crawl in to the ring behind Mike and Switchblxde completely decked out in a goaltender's hockey pads. The official unofficial champs watched as Bert struggled to get to his feet but he dusted himself off quickly and set up his step ladder. Rocco and Switch kept the ladders over their shoulders while Bert was forced to remove a glove for the microphone.

BERT: These last few weeks I can’t help but feel like I’ve had this big target on my back. I’ve been blamed for people winning, I’ve been blamed for them losing. I’ve been kicked in the face, I’ve been tased. In a very short amount of time I’ve managed to make myself public enemy number one. And as a manager to the most prestigious dynasty in wrestling today, I can only tell myself that I must being doing my job right, to be getting all this spotlight for my boys to shine under and even a little extra so their cousin's get a tan. But tonight my boys and I came prepared.

Bert beat his padded chest, The Runaways nodded in approval with wicked grins painted across their faces. Bert held the mic perched up at the tips of his fingers to Rocco, motioning like “tell them what we here for.” Rocco, carrying the ladder over his shoulder, reached for the mic and once it was handed to him he just laughed.

ROCCO: We been in OATH, what, a month? Month and a half? How much impact can four people make in such a short time? Jenna had that Tabula Rasa strap, me and Switch brought back two of the most important belts in Canadian history, and now we got Scum & Villainy… obvious we got a belt for belt situation here. So lemme tell you mother fuckers what's up. We're Canada's Most Wanted! Everybody wants a shot at us, and it looks like you bitches are two of em. So when y'all finally get in this ring, and try and take all the gold, just remember this ain't an opportunity for titles, this is just your asses walkin' up to the chopping block. Get fucked!

Switchblxde and Mikey set their ladders up and all three climbed to the top. Mikey handed the mic to Switchblxde who grinned through silver plated teeth as he brought it to his crooked lips.

SWITCHBLXDE: So what do ya’ say boys? Scum & Villainy versus the mothafuckin’ Runaways, strap for strap? We hang our belts up high and you hang yours next to ‘em. Whoever can climb up these ladders and pull the straps down walks out with all the gold! You bitches got the balls to step to Canada’s Most Wanted? The trio sat atop the ladders and all three looked toward the stage because "The Real Man" by SEATBELTS cued up. Not long after the music began, the OATH Tag Team Champions Scum & Villainy sauntered out onto the stage with Shortcut a few paces behind them. All three men were decked out in their ONI club t-shirts. Baz Jacobi had his championship hanging over his shoulder, down his back and Zeke Davis had his wrapped around his waist. Jacobi was armed with a microphone and he looked amused by the scene before him. JACOBI: Hey joes. I guess you fucks got the message last week heh? Fact is boys, we don't want your plastic championships. They don't mean shit to the ONI boys. But you keep parading around here like they mean something, like they are on the same level as our OATH Tag Team Titles. So we've gotta take 'em. Jacobi smirked and handed the microphone off to Davis. DAVIS: Yeah I mean... fuck... we don't even want to touch those things but as long as you carry them around then some people might think that they mean something. We accept your challenge and when we win, when we climb the ladder at Event Horizon II and take all four title belts we are going to take yours and throw them in a fucking woodchipper.

Davis paused. DAVIS: Those titles may be old. They may be complete fabrications. It doesn't matter. What does matter is that we are going to fuck you meth heads up at Event Horizon II. Because ONI is eternal.

Davis dropped the microphone. Davis and Jacobi disappeared back through the curtain but Shortcut remained. Shortcut pointed at Bert and then pulled the taser out of his pocket. Shortcut held it up and it buzzed...but he dropped it. Shortcut scrambled to pick it up as The Runaways and Bert just laughed from atop their respective ladders.

May O’Neil was seen walking backstage with a mic in her hand. As she looked around for someone to interview, she heard the faint sound of whimsical music coming from the women’s locker room. When she walked inside, she saw Serenity Scorpio and Jocelyn Sky, Dynamic Duo, standing around their mentor Stephanie Matsuda as she was playing videogames on a small TV. The Tabula Rasa Champion seemed to be very invested in the game she was playing. Before May could speak, Jocelyn holds up a hand to silence her.

JOCELYN: Shh! She’s focused!

SERENITY: She’s never gotten this far before…

O’NEIL: Is this Fall Guys?

MATSUDA: God damn it!

Stephanie nearly tossed her controller away in frustration.

MATSUDA: I almost had it! That damn jelly bean hot dog knocked me off the platform!

SERENITY: Life comes at you fast.

O’NEIL: Don’t you have a match coming up?

Matsuda nodded a few times before turning the game off. She stood up and grabbed her Tabula Rasa Championship, slinging it over her shoulders.

MATSUDA: Oh you can bet that I didn’t forget about that. I have a title to defend and a promise to keep.

O’NEIL: A promise?

MATSUDA: To FM Young, of course. I promised that I would bring meaning to this title again, that I would show people what it means to be a champion under special circumstances. 2 Out of 3 Falls is about stamina. Of course you need the skills to back it up, but what good is skills if you’re too tired to do anything? Puroresu focuses on building one’s stamina, and JET’s Queen’s Road Lucharesu is no different. If my opponent thinks she can keep up then let’s put that to the test. We don’t need to get fancy with it, just the basic fundamentals. 2 Out of 3 Falls is my litmus test for the OATH roster. Just a bunch of Fall Guys competing for the crown. And as far as I’m concerned? This belt here will become the most sought after prize in OATH.

O’NEIL: That’s a bold statement. After your match against Reo Ojima, do you think you accomplished what you set out to do?

MATSUDA: I did, in fact. Win or lose, I wanted the man’s respect. I got it. Now it’s time to hone my craft and move up the rankings. First things first though - I need to set a standard. Whenever I go out there, I’m going to ensure that my opponents give me 110%! When I beat them, it'll be at their absolute best! I’m looking for quality defenses over quantity, May. As the War Queen of professional wrestling, it’s my job to make sure my rivals are up to par. Now if you excuse me, I need to make an inspection.

Stephanie winked at the camera and walked off screen, leaving May alone with Dynamic Duo, who started playing Fall Guys.

SERENITY: Wanna join us?

May puts some thought into it and turned to the camera with a shrug.

O’NEIL: Sure, why the heck not.

As the camera faded, May took a seat next to Jocelyn and was given a PS4 controller.

OATH TABULA RASA CHAMPIONSHIP

2 OUT OF 3 FALLS MATCH Qiyanna Marshal vs. Stephanie Matsuda ©

Our one and only title of the night saw “The Blackhawk” Qiyanna Marshal get her second shot at the OATH Tabula Rasa Championship as she took on Stephanie “Cloud” Matsuda for the title, in the champion’s first defence. Both competitors made their entrances but Marshal looked focussed as she watched Matsuda hand the championship over to the referee.

The bell rang but Marshal was momentarily distracted as she saw new OATH signee Kirios Hunt sitting in the front row. The two were involved in a Twitter exchange earlier in the week where Hunt promised to be at Conviction after earning a contract earlier in the day on Livewire. Marshal turned her attention back to Matsuda who was hopping side to side, ready to fight.

MEARS: Congratulations to that young lady right there Kirios Hunt for earning an OATH contract earlier today on Livewire. Not an easy thing to do! Welcome to the company.

PETRIE: Come on Mears! We’ve got a title match here.

MEARS: That we do. Two Out of Three Falls.

PETRIE: Yeah. Pay attention. Fuck.

The two locked up and Marshal got the better of the exchange, putting Matsuda in a headlock but the champion countered with a picture perfect arm drag. Marshal tried to keep her composure but the few moments she took to compose herself let Matsuda catch her off guard with a running thigh press to the midsection.

Matsuda sent Marshal into the ropes and on Marshal’s return Matsuda leap frogged over her. I guess Marshal took offense to this flex so she hit the ropes as hard as she could and then blasted Matsuda with a spear! Marshal scrambled into a cover but Matsuda was able to kick out at two.

MEARS: How important is getting the first fall in a match like this Bad Mood?

PETRIE: It’s fucking everything. You control the match after that. You have the psychological edge and statistically you win the whole thing.

MEARS: That is true. Interestingly, the last time that Qiyanna challenged for the Tabula Rasa Title it was also a two out of three falls match against FM Young.

Perhaps the champion was taking Marshal too lightly because Marshal quickly got Matsuda up and planted her with a reverse neckbreaker. Marshal covered again but Matsuda kicked out again at two. Marshal quickly applied a chin lock to wear Matsuda down to the mat. Marshal broke the hold and then stomped on the back of Matsuda’s neck.

Matsuda responded with a boot to the midsection and then set Marshal up for Special Delivery (Package Piledriver) but Marshal fought out of it, caught Matsuda with a superkick to the gut and then planted the champion with Black Fire (Double Underhook DDT)! Matsuda did not see that coming and she looked to be out as Marshal covered. 1.. 2.. 3!

First Fall: Qiyanna Marshal

MEARS: It is now crunch time for Stephanie Matsuda. She has to win two falls in a row to retain her title.

PETRIE: She won’t. She can’t. Marshal has the edge now and Matsuda’s reign is all but over.

MEARS: I don’t believe that to be the case at all.

The Blackhawk was ecstatic that she was able to score the first fall. Just one more and she would claim her first championship in OATH. The referee backed Marshal away and made sure that Matsuda could continue. Matsuda gave the referee a nod and he gave Marshal the go ahead. Marshal rushed Matsuda and looked to set her up for a second Black Fire (Double Underhook DDT)!

Marshal tried to lift Matsuda up but Cloud was able to fight out! Marshal instead shot Matsuda across the ring but Matsuda vaulted over the top rope and landed on the apron. Marshal rushed her but Matsuda hit her with a rope hanging kick to the face. Marshal staggered back to the middle of the ring like she had consumed one too many Witch’s Brews. Matsuda then shot into the ring and smashed Marshal with Final Heaven (Springboard Forearm Smash)! Matsuda covered. 1.. 2.. !

MEARS: Stephanie Matsuda is the only person two win two different titles in OATH. She knows how to win championship matches and she has the ability to come back from a one fall deficit.

PETRIE: But will she? Last week she got fucked up by Ojima and he beat her. Where is she at physically right now? Where is she at mentally?

MEARS: I do not think the loss against Reo hurt her that badly. If anything she is more motivated to prove her worth. She said so herself.

Instead of letting Marshal get back up, Matsuda started stomping on the challenger’s left knee. Matsuda then got Marshal up and took her down with a dragon screw! Matsuda kept hold of Marshal’s left leg and put the boots to her knee yet again. Marshal tried to scramble up to her feet but her knee had taken some punishment. Hunt watched on from the crowd, intrigued.

Matsuda tried to grab hold of Marshal again but Marshal caught her with a back elbow to the face. Marshal then went for another spear but Matsuda hopped over her and let her hit the ropes. Marshal came charging back and Matsuda blasted her with Yahtzee! (Superkick)! Marshal was caught right on the chin.

MEARS: One of the best superkicks in the business! Qiyanna is in trouble!

Cloud dragged Marshal to the middle of the ring and then went about applying Blasian Sunrise (Tequila Sunrise). Matsuda applied the hold and put her body between Marshal and the ropes. The Blackhawk (not of Chicago) tried to crawl toward the ropes but it was no use. She had to tap out or risk serious damage that she could not afford if she wanted to win.

Second Fall: Stephanie Matsuda

MEARS: We are evened up here folks. One fall a piece but Stephanie has inflicted some serious damage on Qiyanna’s left leg.

PETRIE: Yeah that’s gonna be a problem for Marshal. If she can’t stand she can’t really fight.

The referee checked on Marshal but she shoved him away and told him to start the match. As soon as she got up to her feet Matsuda charged and kicked her leg out of her leg (R.I.P. Owen). Marshal landed with a thud but immediately tried to get back up. Marshal threw a kick at Matsuda but Matsuda caught it and then kicked out her bad leg. Matsuda grabbed Marshal’s fucked left leg and applied a figure four leg lock.

Marshal was trapped in the middle of the ring but if she tapped out now then all was lost. Marshal used all of the strength that she could muster to push herself off the mat and crab walk toward the ropes. Matsuda was amazed by Marshal’s fighting spirit but she continued to wrench back as hard as she could. After what likely felt like an eternity to Marshal, she was able to grab the bottom rope.

PETRIE: Guess I was wrong. Marshal’s title aspirations are on life support now.

MEARS: She needs to swing the momentum back in her favour but that left leg is giving her some serious trouble.

Cloud was forced to break the hold, and Marshal was afforded a slight reprieve. Marshal pulled herself up using the ropes but she was hobbling on one leg. Matsuda looked a little sympathetic but only for a moment. Matsuda went for Marshal but Marshal surprised everyone by levelling Matsuda with a superkick! Matsuda dropped and Marshal dove into a cover. 1.. 2.. ! Matsuda kicked out at the last possible second and Marshal could not believe it.

That was it. That was the moment where Marshal snapped. This had been building for weeks but this match was the straw that broke the camel’s back. (If you know anything about camels). Marshal stayed on top of Matsuda and started hitting her with rights and lefts in furious fashion. Marshal screamed with every shot and we cut to Hunt in the crowd who looked almost embarrassed for Marshal.

PETRIE: That’s it Marshal! Turn the tide! Get nasty!

MEARS: She is not finished yet!

The Blackhawk got Matsuda up and when to whip her into the ropes but Matsuda reversed it. Marshal didn’t even make it to the ropes, her left leg gave out. Marshal turned to engage Matsuda again but the champion dropped her with Last Surprise (Sling Blade). Matsuda then quickly applied Blasian Sunrise (Tequila Sunrise) again. Marshal reached out for the ropes but it just wasn’t happening. The look on her face just before she tapped out said it all -- soul crushing disappointment.

Winner: Still OATH Tabula Rasa Champion, Stephanie Matsuda

"Rainy Days" by Boogie feat. Eminem cued up and Matsuda was handed the TR Title as Marshal rolled to the outside. Matsuda celebrated in the center of the ring until her music abruptly cut. "Cold Blooded" by Zayde Wolfe cued up and there was a decent pop as Meg “Hands of Steel” Coleman started down the ramp.

PETRIE: What the hell is she doing here? This isn’t Livewire.

MEARS: You know that wrestlers are not regulated to either show. The roster is fluid.

PETRIE: Still...she doesn’t deserve to be on the A Show.

MEARS: Meg Coleman has an excellent record so you would be wrong to say that.

Matsuda looked intrigued as the relative newcomer walked up the steps and entered the ring. Coleman walked right up to Matsuda and pointed at the Tabula Rasa Championship. Coleman then gazed up at the Event Horizon II banner hanging from the rafters.

MEARS: The challenge has been made! Meg Coleman was a Tabula Rasa Title match at Event Horizon II!

The champion stared into Coleman’s eyes for a moment and then smirked. Matsuda could be heard saying “No problem”. Before she left the ring with her championship. Coleman eyed the champion walking up the ramp, pleased that her challenge was accepted and she didn’t even have to verbally propose it. Wrestling.

PETRIE: I don’t think we’re done here Mears. Check out Marshal.

The drama at ringside did not cease with Matsuda leaving. Marshal stood up on the outside and she found herself standing right in front of Kirios Hunt in the front row. Hunt seemed to be genuinely applauding Marshal’s effort but Marshal did not take kindly to it.

MEARS: Marshal is furious and it seems that she has turned that rage toward Kirios Hunt!

Marshal hobbled over to the guardrail and started yelling “You think this is funny?” to Hunt. Hunt seemed perplexed by the insinuation but Marshal was irate. Security decided to intervene before anything more could happen. We have a schedule after all. Marshal was led away from the ringside area and Hunt never took her eyes off of her.

The scene cut backstage as OATH World Champion, Reo Ojima was finishing up getting ready for his match. Stretching his legs out, Reo looked up and saw the camera creeping on him.

OJIMA: You want to talk to me? Why the hell do you want to talk to me now?

The camera slowly panned over to the OATH World Title and then back to Reo who was looking at the belt.

OJIMA: Oh. The World Champ should say something leading up to his match, huh?

Slowly standing up, Reo grabbed the World Title and placed it over his shoulder as he addressed the camera.

OJIMA: Tonight, it’s going to be a cluster fuck. Just eight dudes beating the holy shit out of one another because both sides think the other group is the drizzling shits. Only thing I’m looking forward to is the cold beer that I’m going to use as an ice pack and to drink out of after the match. And if Shields impresses me tonight, maybe I’ll give him one as well. As for that piss ant Edwards and the rest of the rats in the tag match, we’re...

Reo stopped mid sentence and looked to his side. The camera zoomed back to see a stage hand standing next to Reo.

STAGE HAND: Mr. Ojima. James Edwards wanted me to give this to you and to wish you best of luck tonight in your ma…

Reo, who wasn’t pleased that he was interrupted, quickly got into the face of the stage hand and began belittling the man.

OJIMA: You see I’m talking here. The face of OATH is talking and you interrupt me? Where the fuck are my flip flops? Gonna smack the shit out of you.

Ojima looked around and was about to grab his flip flops when the stage hand nervously handed Ojima a bottle of Hibiki Harmony Whisky. Ojima cracked a smile as he shoved the stage hand out of the camera's view and inspected the bottle. Opening the lid, Reo took a swig straight from the bottle and gave out a heavenly sigh.

OJIMA: James might be a piss ant, but he’s got good taste in drinks. Still going to kick your ass Edwards, but if you want a drink afterwards you find me and we’ll have a couple of rounds.

Taking another swig, Reo walked past the camera and out of view.

The ring had transformed. Instead of the standard grey ring canvas it was a malbec red carpet and in the center of the ring sat two studio chairs and behind them was a large 4K television with a signature playing on loop - The Butcher Shop. The audience started cheering, as the host of this new segment was very well known in Toronto. The opening fuzz guitars of "Half Lit" by Single Mothers cued up and the audience in The Citadel exploded. Burgundy coloured lights flashed over the crowd as the signature "F" logo appeared on the tron. "The Buffalo Butcher" Finale walked out onto the stage dressed in a perfectly tailored black suit and an off white button down shirt. No tie, because fuck that. Finale took in the adulation from the audience for a moment before he made his way to the ring. He slapped hands with some of the fans before making his way up the ring steps. Finale entered the ring and took hold of a microphone. The audience was chanting "FIN-A-LE" ad nauseum and Super Shredder was relishing every moment. Finally the music faded out and the lights returned to normal. FINALE: Well. Thanks for that. Another giant pop for The Buffalo Butcher and he smirked, knowing that would be the response. He waited for the chants to die down and he started up again. FINALE: You know I wrestled for a lot of years in this city and no matter how many times I come out here, I always get fucking goosebumps. Toronto is without question one of the greatest wrestling cities in the world and that is because of all of you.

Would you guess that mentioning the name of the city also got a giant pop? Yeah. It did. Finale was a seasoned cheap pop artist and he had no shame about it.

FINALE: But I'm not out here to talk about me or even about you guys. Sorry. What I am out here to talk about is one Leah Aguero. You see, me and the War Queen have been having some words as of late. She took issue what she said about her in my first The Butcher Shop column for OATH. So I invited her to come to the first ever live edition of The Butcher Shop here in OATH so that we could settle our differences face to face.

The audience cheered that because there was clearly potential for a physical altercation and these rabid wolves love blood.

FINALE: I'd rather not drag this out because it is not about me. This is about Leah. So War Queen, please come on down to The Butcher Shop.

"Killing In The Name Of" by Rage Against The Machine cued up and there was a mixed reaction from the audience as former OATH Tag Team Champion, "War Queen" Leah Aguero made her way out onto the stage. Aguero seemed slightly annoyed by the reaction but she shook it off and made her way down to the ring. Finale sat on the middle rope and propped up the top rope as a gesture of hospitality. Aguero appeared initially distrustful but ultimately she entered the ring. Aguero took a microphone and the music died down. FINALE: Welcome, War Queen. So let's skip the nonsense. You got pissy about what I said in my column. So for those foolish enough to have not read it, let's go over it.

Finale pulled out his cellphone and began to recite the words from his own article. FINALE: "Man is it just me or is Leah Aguero one of the most frustrating talents on the roster? She shows up and wins big matches and then phones in other matches and loses. Get your head in the game “War Queen” because you just yoyo up and down the card. Helms is a killer, he showed that last week when he nearly ripped Edwards head off. Aguero said she wants blood and destruction and all that good shit but when she gets it from a guy like Helms, I see her failing...again."

Finale smirked and then put his phone away. Aguero just stared at him. FINALE: Was I wrong War Queen? Because if I remember correctly, when you faced Locke Helms last week what I said would happen...happened. So are you mad that I called it? Are you mad that I was one hundred percent correct? Did my prediction get in your head? Talk to me War Queen. What happened? Aguero was clearly doing her best to contain her anger, instead of sitting on one of the studio chairs like Finale had, Aguero began pacing around in front of him. Finale kept his eyes on her, fully aware that he had gotten under her skin. AGUERO: You want to come out here and just slander my name through the mud and for what? You just want to get your jollies off? You want to question my tactics? You want to question whether or not I bring it each and every time I step in this ring whether it’s a big match or not? You’ve got a lot of shit spewing from your mouth for someone that has been sitting behind a computer clacking away. FINALE: Here's the--- Aguero darted toward Finale and got right in his face.

AGUERO: No. You don't speak now. You've talked enough. Finale's eyebrows raised, someone shocked that she would come at him like that. He lowered the microphone and gestured for her to continue. Aguero turned away from him, her eyes on the mat. AGUERO: The truth is I haven’t been at the top of my game for a minute. I had been missing something. I was, and still am, the number three ranked competitor here in OATH. You know what though? I don’t give a fuck about those rankings anymore. They’ve got all these brainwashed fools thinking that wins and losses really matter. Take a look at Qiyanna Marshal. She went on a losing streak, wins ONE match and gets a shot at the Tabula Rasa Championship. Aguero paused and then slowly turned back to look at Finale. AGUERO: Meanwhile, you clack away at your little column thinking that everyone in the locker room needs to perform to a certain standard so they can get a nice write up from you. It’s no different than what they used to do for Minoru. The reality is I’m one tough bitch and I bring it no matter the occasion. I don’t do it for you and your little comment section. I don’t do it to “rise” in the ranks. I do it for me. I do it because I get off bringing pain to my opponents. Finale slowly raised the microphone to respond, wondering if it was alright that he speak on his own segment. Aguero waited for his response. FINALE: That's all well and good War Queen but next week is the biggest show of OATH's year and it's looking like you don't have a match. You don't care about rankings but you are ranked number three and you aren't even on the card. What in the fuck does that say about you? You're doing this for you, you say, and now you aren't on the biggest show of the year. Sounds like you aren't doing shit for you. Aguero snarled.

AGUERO: You’re right. I don’t have a match at Event Horizon II. In your head I’m just not good enough to even be on the card. Well, here’s a thought. You’ve been contemplating a “return to the ring”. How about you stop being a little bitch and you face me at Event Horizon? You love Toronto so much...let's make it a Toronto Street Fight. Finale considered the proposal. He stood up out of his chair and then looked to the crowd, asking Toronto what they thought. Foolish move because as soon as he took his eyes off of her, Aguero struck. Aguero clubbed Finale in the back of the head with a forearm shot. She then picked up one of the studio chairs, collapsed it, and then smashed it over his back. The wooden chair exploded into splinters as the Toronto crowd booed the War Queen. Finale writhed on the mat in pain but Aguero was not finished. She took hold of Finale's head whispered something in his ear and then sent him face first into the television screen. Finale dropped to the mat amid a shower of broken glass. Aguero stomped around the ring as Toronto collectively told her to go fuck herself. Aguero went to leave the ring but Finale started to get up to all fours. Aguero turned and decided that she wasn't finished. Aguero charged across the ring and nailed Finale in the side of the head with The Endgame (Running Punt). Finale dropped and found himself face down, blood pooling around his head. Aguero then left the ring, her point having been proven.

EIGHT MAN TAG TEAM MATCH ONI & Matt Shields vs. James Edwards, Erik Holland, & The Runaways

The main event was set to go down. Before anyone made their entrance, four female models walked out onto the stage clad in identical black bikinis. On the left breast was the demon logo and on the other it read ONI. Gold stripper poles raised up out of the stage and the women started dancing. "Faith" by Ghost cued up and “The Hellhound” Matt Shields walked out onto the stage wearing an ONI t-shirt.

MEARS: Was Matt actually made a member of ONI? Did they approve these… dancers?

PETRIE: Does that fucking matter? They are a team tonight! He is showing team unity!

MEARS: I have to believe that maybe Reo will take issue with this.

Shields stopped at the top of the ramp, eying the dancers. “The Real Man” by SEATBELTS cued up and out came the core members of ONI. OATH Tag Team Champions, Zeke Davis and Baz Jacobi were out first with Jacobi’s manager Shortcut at his side. The OATH World Champion, Reo Ojima was out next and he walked out in front of everyone. Ojima looked to the dancers, then looked at Shields. Ojima’s eyes were fixated on the ONI shirt that Shields stole. Ojima just grunted and then led his squad to the ring.

MEARS: If Reo has an issue with Matt’s overzealousness it seems that he will deal with it at a later date. Tonight is about winning this Eight Man Tag Team Match and cultivating some more momentum going into Event Horizon II next week.

PETRIE: I’m sure he’s fine with it. The old bastard loves strippers… I think.

The ONI squad entered the ring, with Shortcut taking his place at ringside.

"Will you tell these fools I'm not crazy! Make them listen to me before it's too late!"

The arena suddenly goes completely pitch black.

"Listen to me. PLEASE listen. If you don't, if you won't...if you fail to understand, then the same incredible terror that's menacing me will STRIKE AT YOU!"

WE MUST SURVIVE!

"The Haunted" by Walls of Jericho ERUPTED over the sound system kicking up an air-raid siren style strobelight that pulsed steadily but angrily on the stage. Lyal "Lyric" Allen comes bounding through the curtain first rocking her latest outrageous makeup and costume, waving to the crowd and bounding around like a super-ball. She went to center stage as she saw her beloved charge Erik Holland materialize onto the stage amid the lights and the pouring smoke from behind the curtain. Lyric stopped and admired her man as he wandered down the ramp. The duo stopped at the bottom of the ramp, waiting for the rest of their team.

MEARS: There he is, the man that will face Matt Shields at Event Horizon II in OATH’s first ever Deathmatch.

PETRIE: If Holland isn’t careful it’s gonna be his LAST ever deathmatch. Would actually have the name mean something…

The house lights went down, and the arena stayed black during the garbled opening guitar riff of "My Name Is Human" by Highly Suspect, then, "Okay." Strobe lights moved with the easy beat of the song. James Edwards appeared at the top of the ramp with the hood on his ring jacket up. He took a few moments to survey everything before him. The hood went down with the opening lyrics. Moving with the meandering pace of the music, his eyes never left the ring. Edwards stopped at the bottom of the ramp and stood beside Holland. The two shared a glance and then both looked back toward ONI in the ring.

MEARS: We know that James Edwards is not at one hundred percent after the attack from ONI last week. But he has been almost apologetic to them, what is that about?

PETRIE: He’s a bitch.

"Liquid Swords” by GZA began playing as the house lights dimmed out and began flashing violently to the beat. After the intro played out the CWA Tag Team Champions, Switchblxde and Michael Sharpe rose up through a blackened fog. Bert Cocaine appeared behind the two men, still clad in hockey pads. The trio walked down the ramp and joined Holland, Lyric, and Edwards.

MEARS: Everyone is here. This is going to be a war.

PETRIE: Understatement of the century.

ONI and Shields were unified in the ring. Lyric and Bert stood at ringside as The Runaways, Holland, and Edwards all entered the ring. Two referees were in the ring at the start to keep the peace. Surprisingly, no one tried to jump anyone else. The two teams went to their respective corners. Shields offered to start for his team and Holland just stayed in the ring, indicating that he would be starting for his team. Before the bell rang, Edwards called over the referee and handed him a paper bag that he seemingly had stashed at ringside. He pointed to Ojima. The official shrughed and delivered it to the World Champion, who pulls out a bottle of Wild Turkey. Ojima was perplexed at yet another gift from his rival.

Ding, Ding!

The second referee exited the ring, allowing Shields and Holland to start the contest. Holland immediately stomped toward his Event Horizon II opponent and Shields gestured for him to bring it on. When Holland was within two paces, Shields tagged in Ojima. Shields slipped through the ropes to the floor and cheered for the World Champion. Ojima stared at Shields for a moment, then sighed and entered the ring.

Holland and Ojima stared eye to eye in a scene right out of their World Title match two months ago. Ojima appeared to not take Holland seriously. He half heartedly welcomed Holland to take a free shot and The Haunted was more than happy to oblige. Holland blasted Ojima with a forearm shot but the World Champion just absorbed it and appeared disappointed.

MEARS: Erik Holland has wanted another opportunity to face Reo Ojima for months!

PETRIE: This is likely the closest he’s gonna get for a while. Dude needs to win some fucking matches to get the HONOR of sharing the ring with Ojima one on one.

MEARS: He certainly is capable and he could start with Matt Shields at Event Horizon II.

The Haunted popped Ojima with another forearm shot and again the champion just ate it. Holland then blasted Ojima with a headbutt that rocked the old bastard champion and then Holland sent him across the ring with an Irish whip. On Ojima’s return, he cracked Holland with a lariat. Holland didn’t go down but he did fall back into the ropes. Ojima then darted forward and hit Holland with a clothesline that sent him over the top rope to the floor.

From the opposing team’s corner Edwards applauded Ojima. The World Champion didn’t know what to make of it and invited Edwards to enter the ring. Before Edwards could make a move, Switch decided that he had had enough of this bullshit. Switch rushed Ojima and started hitting him with wild punches. Ojima was able to cover up so Switch started in with some forearms. Ojima ate a couple but for the most part he was able to block everything. Switch then went for a headbutt but the old bastard’s noggin was like concrete. Ojima pulled back and then turned Switch inside out with a huge lariat.

MEARS: You have to admire Switchblxde’s guts for coming at the World Champion with such ferocity.

PETRIE: Maybe he’s just a fucking moron.

MEARS: Or he is using this opportunity to test his mettle against the best in the company.

PETRIE: Nah he’s just dumb.

Switch landed on his face and the World Champion positioned himself behind Switch. Ojima reached down, grabbed Switch around the waist and then lifted him up and over with a deadlift German suplex. Ojima then sauntered over to his corner and tagged in Davis. Ojima pointed at Switch and Davis was more than happy to get his licks in.

Outside the ring, Shields had pounced on Holland and was hitting him with ferocious boots to the back of the head. Lyric tried to get involved but Shortcut was there to cut her off. Shortcut stalked Lyric but Bert (of all people) came to her rescue! Bert, in full hockey goalie pads, tackled Shortcut and started hitting him with some of the worst punches you have ever seen. Regardless of the pillows that Bert was throwing, Shortcut didn’t know how to defend himself and he was getting worked.

MEARS: We knew that this match would fall apart but I did not expect a fight between the managers!

PETRIE: Bert was feeling way more froggy because he’s wearing NHL grade hockey pads.

MEARS: A smart strategy.

PETRIE: Don’t ever call him smart.

In the ring Davis was stomping on Switch with everything that he had. Davis got Switch up and went for a suplex but Switch hooked his leg around Davis’ and then reversed it with a spinning suplex of his own. Switch dragged Davis over to his corner and tagged in Rocco. Switch got Davis up in a wheelbarrow and Rocco caught Davis’ head with a cutter for a killer tag team combination. Rocco covered but Jacobi was in to break up the count.

Switch didn’t take kindly to Jacobi breaking up the pin so he launched himself at Baz. Switch had Jacobi down and was battering him with wild shots. Switch got Jacobi up and called over to Rocco and together The Runaways dropped Jacobi with a double brainbuster. Jacobi rolled out of the ring, holding his head and Switch gave chase.

PETRIE: This is getting fucking crazy. I love it. The referees aren’t doing ANYTHING.

MEARS: Perhaps Mr. Straker instructed them to figuratively keep the whistles in their pockets.

PETRIE: They have whistles?

MEARS: No Bad Mood. They do not.

PETRIE: The fuck are you talking about then?

Rocco put the boots to Davis and then went to tag in Edwards. Edwards seemed hesitant about getting in the ring but Rocco pointed at Davis and screamed “Fucking get him!”. Edwards had no choice but to oblige his team mate. Edwards entered the ring and went to grab Davis but Davis hit him with an eye poke. Davis then hit the ropes and came back looking for.. something… but Edwards took him down with a running STO! Edwards seemed reluctant but he covered. 1.. 2.. ! Ojima entered the ring and broke up the fall.

Edwards apologized to Ojima and Ojima was done with his bullshit. Ojima caught Edwards with a snap spear that nearly cut Edwards in half. Literally. Ok… figuratively. Ojima then draped Davis over Edwards and went back to his corner. The referee counted. 1.. 2.. ! Edwards was able to kickout.

MEARS: What is with this tactic from Edwards? Why is he apologizing?

PETRIE: Because he’s a fucking bitch. Ojima humbled his ass last week and now he has PTSD or something. He’s worried about pissing off the champion again.

MEARS: I am not so certain that is the case.

On the outside Shields had whipped Holland hard into the guard rail. Shields then charged at Holland but Holland hit him with a back body drop into the front row! Shortcut and Bert were still rolling around ringside with neither of them getting the upper hand. Lyric just watched with a disgusted look on her face. Elsewhere at ringside Jacobi took Switch over with a half nelson suplex and then went searching under the ring.

In the ring Davis started crawling toward Ojima on the apron but Edwards grabbed him by the boot. Edwards mouthed the word “Sorry.” to Ojima and then pulled Davis up to his feet. Davis spit in Edwards’ face and then hit him with a low blow that the referee did not see because… reasons. Davis then planted Edwards with Freak Daddy (Pedigree) and covered. 1.. 2.. ! Edwards kicked out.

PETRIE: Hahaha. Imagine if Edwards got pinned by Zeke Fucking Davis of all people? He’s like a hastily put together create-a-wrestler that was constructed to serve any purpose but be effective in a ring.

MEARS: What are you saying?

PETRIE: You know what I’m saying.

On the outside Jacobi had pulled a ladder out from under the ring and then went to use it on Switch. Rocco saw this about to happen so he ran along the apron and leaped off with a dropkick, sending the ladder into Jacobi’s face. Elsewhere, Holland and Shields brawled through the crowd to the back never to be seen again. Or until next week.

In the ring Davis tagged in Ojima and then turned to see that Jacobi was getting worked by The Runaways. Davis charged and vaulted over the top rope, landing on both Rocco and Switch, taking them down. Ojima entered the ring and approached Edwards. The referee looked around at the chaos everywhere and decided that enough was enough and he threw the match out.

Ding, Ding, Ding!

Winner: No Contest

The World Champion didn’t care that the match was over. Ojima walked up to Edwards, who was now on his knees. The Stone Gargoyle stared down at Edwards with a disgusted look on his face. Edwards appeared apologetic, his eyes wide and sad. Ojima didn’t buy it, he slapped the piss out of Edwards.

PETRIE: Edwards is going full simp right now.

MEARS: This is definitely a weird approach and Ojima is not falling for it.

Edwards dropped to the mat and Ojima knelt on his chest. Ojima just started slapping Edwards in the face, over and over. The former Intrepid Champion eyed his opponent for Event Horizon but didn’t raise a hand to defend himself. Ojima yelled at Edwards to fight back but Edwards just cracked a smile and said, "Sorry friend".

PETRIE: Honestly what the fuck?

Ojima hauled Edwards up to his feet and planted him with Last Call (Running Powerslam). Ojima exited the ring, collected his championship and his bottle of Wild Turkey. Ojima walked past the brawl between Shortcut and Bert as well as the fight between S&V and The Runaways. Ojima just stomped up the ramp in disgust. The champion was done with this bullshit and was likely heading to enjoy the gifts that he received from his challenger for Event Horizon II.

MEARS: The champion is finished with all of this weirdness.

PETRIE: He was pissed off from the jump. Ojima needs to put his boot back on the neck of this company. People are running wild!

MEARS: Perhaps he will at Event Horizon II.

The Stone Gargoyle stopped at the top of the ramp and turned back to the ring where Edwards was laying. Ojima knew that Edwards was up to something but for the life of him, the old bastard couldn’t figure out the angle. Ojima threw the World Title over his shoulder and disappeared through the curtain.

MEARS: Ladies and gentlemen that is it for Conviction XXX. The next time we see you will be next Sunday for our biggest show of the year, Event Horizon II on iPay-per-view! We look forward to producing the greatest event in the history of OATH. For “Bad Mood” Ben Petrie, I am Matthew Mears. Goodnight from Toronto!

Results:

• Mancini Syndicate def. The Hell Realm • Josie Wales def. El Diablo Blanco • FM Young def. Astaroth • Stephanie Matsuda def. Qiyanna Marshal (2-1) to retain the Tabula Rasa Title • ONI & Matt Shields vs. Edwards, Holland, & Runaways was a No Contest