CONVICTION XXXVI

Episode XXXVI Sunday October 18th, 2020 The Citadel in Toronto, Ontario

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From the opening signature the scene cut to the arena floor as "The Real Man" by the Seatbelts played in the arena. It was a mix reaction as Reo Ojima makes his way out with the OATH World Title on his shoulder. He walked gingerly as last weeks match was still affecting him. Following him was the new OATH Tabula Rasa Champion Leah Aguero who had a dented up steel chair in hand. Slowly making their way inside the ring, Leah set the chair in the center of the canvas and leaned up against a ring post while Reo slowly sat on the chair and looked at the fans that surrounded him. A cocky grin consumed his face as he lifted the microphone to his mouth and addressed the OATH fans.

OJIMA: Hope you don’t mind me sitting down. Ed put me through hell last week and my old ass is still recovering.

This got a chuckle from the audience as Reo adjusted himself in the seat.

OJIMA: Three and O, Ed. You couldn’t fight me in a straight up match. So then you went mind games on me and that didn’t work either. So you said fuck it and we threw the rules out the door, and even though you finally got that submission, you couldn’t walk out with the title. With youth in your side, this old bastard still pulled out a W and showed why I am the best damn wrestler in this company.

Turning his head so lightly, he looked over at Leah for a second before addressing the OATH audience again.

OJIMA: Now with Baz sidelined for life with a major injury and Zeke having problems with immigration, I needed someone to watch my back and continue ONI’s dominance here in OATH. Now I looked at the OATH roster and most of you slap dicks back there are the drizzling shits. You don’t have what it takes to be ONI. But a few have stepped out and impressed me enough to offer a place next to me. Leah here listened when I offered her the spot. She’s a sponge that wants to get better and with my years of experience she’s going to reach that next level. She’s cut throat and with her by my side, the OATH World title will belong to ONI for years to come.

Tossing the microphone to Leah, Reo leaned back in the chair, pulled out a cigar and lights it up. Leah took a moment as she held the microphone close to her mouth.

AGUERO: Many were left shocked by my actions at Hell and Back. They just couldn't quite comprehend why I would join ONI. But to them I say, why not? I've been talking about big things coming. I've been talking about the bigger picture coming to light. Reo here put out a call to see just who would be impressive enough to join him in ONI. The caveat, however, was that Reo here requested their new recruit to prove themselves. You see, ONI isn't about breaking the rules, they are about making the rules. We are here to make OATH in our image. With the World Champion as our leader, greatness follows. We've already seen what happens when ONI unlocks your true potential.

Leah slapped the Tabula Rasa Title that's fixed upon her waist.

AGUERO: If you thought ONI was dangerous before… well, we're just getting started.

The cameras got a glimpse of a particular doorway backstage; on the door was a name of who it had belonged to -- Johnny Draco. It would appear that May O’Neil was interested in interviewing the debuting wrestler. Though, it wasn’t his first OATH Pro Wrestling match, it was his next step in being one of the best. It was his first Conviction event match, one of which he would take great pride in. May O’Neil started to knock on the locker room door, causing a bang to be heard throughout the hallway. Johnny Draco got up from the couch he was sitting on before made his way towards the door. He stopped in his footsteps reaching a hand up towards the door handle. He then turned the handle allowing him to open the door. His eyes stare at the head interviewer of Conviction. His head nodded gently towards her as he stepped outside the room.

O'NEIL: Ladies and Gentlemen, welcome to tonight’s Conviction! I am here with Johnny Draco. A wrestler who has proven to be worth something in this federation. At the last Livewire event you were booked on, you ended up losing to Jamie Emmerson. Is there any regret for going up against Jamie Emmerson so early in your career?

DRACO: You see I let these fans down by failing against Jamie Emmerson. The promises I spoke of never came true that night. However, in the middle of failing I ended up proving some worth. I happen to prove that I can hang with the best in OATH. That is a victory for me because it shows my hard work is causing attention. I don’t dwell on the loss I suffered at the hands of other opponents. I just try to bounce back better than before that loss. Jamie Emmerson served as a reminder of what this federation can offer. There will come another day when me and Jamie face off against each other. Perhaps it will be a time when I am more destined to be a champion. However, during that match I got a taste of what it takes to be great in this federation. I was able to take her to heights some of her other opponents couldn’t have.

O'NEIL: I definitely feel like you gave her a hard fight to keep her title. At the end of the match the Vice President of OATH came out and noticed you would be appearing on the tonight’s Conviction. How does this recognition feel after putting in hard work so far in the federation?

DRACO: While, one loss may have set me back a bit it seems; I have proven to be a promising talent here in OATH. This same credibility has caused me to get booked on a show that helps me further my talent. It gives me the chance to face off against some of the best this federation has to offer. At the end of the day I am always willing to prove myself against them. Tonight’s Conviction event is a blessing and an honor for me to be having. It shows that this recognition doesn’t come with just a grain of salt. It is a sign that proves I belong in OATH Pro Wrestling for years to come. Tonight, I won’t let my fans down in my match against Kasey Kash.

O'NEIL: Speaking of Kasey Kash you both seem to have a mutual respect for each other. However, in the ring this same respect can’t stop you both from getting the win over the other. Is there anything you are doing to prepare for this Conviction debut match?

DRACO: I have been preparing ever since getting the word on who my opponent will be. I know my opponent has potential to do great things in the ring. At the moment I am a bit impressed yet only time can tell if he can back it up. This gives me the opportunity to fight at my best abilities. Tonight, I will take great pride in proving myself against Mr. Kasey Kash. The things that we can do in that ring -- it’s something the fans will enjoy. Perhaps they will for once get their money worth out of a Conviction event. Yet at the end of the match there can only be one winner. I plan on stopping at nothing to become that victorious wrestler. Kasey Kash prepare to be to go that extra mile tonight; prepare to go through hell and back with me. If you aren’t I’ll be leaving you bleeding on the canvas. The last thing visual to you will be my right fist hitting you with The Mic Drop.

O'NEIL: You seem pretty confident about your match tonight. I know I speak for these fans when I say good luck to you against Kasey Kash. It will surely be a debut match for you both that the fans remember for a long time. That is all the time I have thank you for answering my questions Draco.

He reached out his hand and shook May's in a respectful manner. Draco returned to the locker room where his manager Tiffany Lynn Page sat. Draco began getting ready for the contest, pulling on his elbow pads.

“RestInPeace” by Bones cued up on the speakers to an onslaught of boos by the audience in attendance. They all hate this fucker to DEATH. As Kasey bursts through the curtain it was visible that he was fucking fuming, with the microphone he has in his hands he started shouting out at the production people.

KASEY: Oi! Shut that shit off! I’m fucking done, shut off my fucking music!

The people in charge of the music heed to Kaseys demands, Kasey continued on his march to the ring.

KASEY: I know my match is next, I know that my opponent tonight is expecting me to show up for our match, I know you fans could care less about what the fuck I have to say tonight.

The crowd continued to boo, with Kasey continuing to not give a shit.

KASEY: I know all of these things. But all I’m after tonight… is confirmation that I’ll get another shot at FM Young’s title, because unless you’re all dumb, stupid, or inbred… you’ll know I’m the next in line for a shot at that belt, ESPECIALLY after what happened at the Grapplin' In The Woods Match, or whatever the fuck that dumb shit was called. In fact, I got video proof of my robbery, so people in the back… play the footage.

Again, the people in charge of production did what Kasey demanded of them, playing the footage from his match with FM at the last Conviction show, specifically the part where Kasey hit the Kash Out for the 1, 2, 3. Before it all gets taken away from him and the match was restarted, before he quickly failed to win the restart. As the cameras returned to ringside we could see that Kasey had set up a steel chair in the center of the ring, and was staring directly into the hard camera.

KASEY: Now as we can see, all of you are now caught up on the situation if you weren’t already familiar. I got robbed of the championship, I got screwed out of MY moment by that bitch at ringside. I would’ve been more than happy to give her another shot at that belt at another date, hell, I would’ve even been happy to do it later that night. But the restart right there and then insured my downfall, and that bitch with her suits and her fancy fucking words convinced the referee that the match needed to be restarted there and then. I was in no condition to defend my newly one crown there and then, in that match alone I hit a massive high flying move from a branch hanging high above the ring, then later proceeded to hit my finish, the Kash Out. My ribs were fucked, my everything was fucked. I deserved the win there, and I deserve to be called the next in line for a shot at that title that FM Young holds so closely. While guys like Erik Holland seem to be deluded into thinking that they need to be the one to beat FM for the belt, they’re mistaken in that fact, I’m the one that deserves it. So, here’s what’s gonna happen. I am going to sit right here, on this chair. And I won’t move until I get assured that I will get another shot at the Intrepid Championship.

Kasey then dropped the mic, and sat in the chair with his arms folded, soaking in the boos from the audience. Kasey laughed at them, he didn't care about them, all he cared about was one more shot at FM Young, one more shot at the Intrepid Championship, one more shot at what he felt like was owed to him.

As he sat there, the boos raining down, “Kumbaya” by Hopsin started playing over the speakers and Johnny Draco made his entrance. Kasey was clearly frustrated with this and got up, and threw the steel chair out of the ring and sat in the corner, waiting for the match to begin.

SINGLES MATCH Erik Holland vs. Alex Pierce

The opening contest of the evening saw two new OATH stars looking to make their name on Conviction. Johnny Draco came to the ring followed by his manager Tiffany Lynn Page and he got a nice little reaction from the fans in The Citadel. Draco played to the fans once he reached the ring and then began shadow boxing as he waited for his opponent.

MEARS: I am excited to see what this former boxer Johnny Draco can do here on Conviction.

PETRIE: He lost to the Livewire Champion and that grants him a spot on Conviction? The fuck is Barlow doing on Livewire.

MEARS: He is recognizing talent. Kasey Kash also lost to Jamie Emmerson but he impressed the entire office last week at Hell And Back.

“The Resident Asshole” Kasey Kash was out next and as has become the norm with him, he was smoking a cigarette en route to the ring. Kash took his time, soaking in the boos that he was receiving from the fans in The Citadel.

PETRIE: I like this kid. He doesn’t give a fuck about anything.

MEARS: He should give a… care… about this match. Johnny is no slouch.

Once in the ring, the referee requested that Kash put out his cigarette. Kash obliged but did so by flicking the cigarette across the ring at Draco. However, this wasn’t the first time that Kash had tried this in his OATH career. Draco saw it coming and moved his head slightly to the side. The embered projectile missed completely.

MEARS: How is he allowed to smoke in this building?

PETRIE: Like I said… he don’t give a fuck!

The contest started with the former boxer Draco peppering Kash with a variety of shots. Kash did his best to cover up but Draco was far too fast with his fists. Draco caught Kash with a shot to the midsection and then clobbered him with a right cross that sent Kash staggering backward.

MEARS: I feel like Kasey does not want to throw hands with Johnny.

The hot headed Kash too exception to Draco’s boxing superiority and decided that it was time to show Draco that he could throw some strikes of his own. Kash blocked a left jab from Draco and cracked him with a spinning backfist that he quickly transitioned into a ripcord kappo kick! Instead of covering, Kash took an obnoxious bow.

PETRIE: Yeah! Be proud of yourself kid!

MEARS: He should focus on the match.

Kash noticed Tiffany at ringside and he blew her a kiss. She responded with a disgusted expression but Kash didn’t give a shit. Kash delivered a hard kick to Draco’s midsection and then let him get up. Kash got in Draco’s face saying “You can do it pal! Come on!” Draco responded with an uppercut -- attempt -- because Kash caught Draco’s wrist and pulled him into a sudden flatliner. Kash then leaped up to the top rope with an impressive show of agility and then came off the top rope with a lightning fast 450 splash. Kash arrogantly covered, throwing up his hands with each count that the referee made.

PETRIE: It’s all over for Johnny Draco! You blew it buddy.

1..

2..!

MEARS: Not yet!

Draco kicked out! Many fans in The Citadel were legitimately surprised by Draco’s resilience. Not many people kick out of the 450 splash! Right? Right. Kash applied a reverse chin lock but Draco wasn’t having it. Draco fought up to his feet and he took Kash over with a hip toss. Amazingly, Kash landed on his feet and then got face to face with Draco.

MEARS: Would you look at this?

PETRIE: Both of these guys can take to the air.

MEARS: I think we may be seeing the seeds of an incredible rivalry.

The two high flyers were forehead to forehead when Kash tried for a headbutt. Draco evaded it and then pulled Kash into a wicked Michinoku driver II. Kash was dropped and Draco kept him on the mat with a running fist drop. Then another for good measure. Draco, in an effort to show his high flying prowess, climbed to the top rope and then leaped off with a jaw dropping shooting star leg drop! Draco covered and Tiffany pounded on the apron.

PETRIE: Come on kid! Kick out!

1..

2..

..!

Kash kicked out and that earned some serious boos from the fans in The Citadel. Kash crawled towards the ropes, gasping for air as that leg drop definitely did some damage to Kash’s throat. Draco, not content to let Kash recover, hauled The Resident Asshole up to his feet and attempted a brainbuster but Kash slipped behind him, spun Draco around and hit him with a Spanish fly! Kash then darted toward a corner and hit Draco with a BME! Kash covered.

1..

2..

..!

PETRIE: Ref do your fucking job!

MEARS: That was a fair count Bad Mood and you know it!

PETRIE: Bullshiiiiiiiit!

Draco was able to kick out and the fans could not believe it. Both of these competitors were giving it their all and The Citadel couldn’t help but respect both of them. Kash, not wanting to give Draco any room to breathe, pulled Draco in and hit him with a tiger driver ‘91! Kash then climbed to the top rope and went for a swanton bomb but Draco rolled out of the way at the last second. The rubberband man Kash was quickly back up to his feet but he was hurting from that missed move and was unable to counter Draco’s Mic Drop (Skull Crushing Finale). Draco covered.

1..

2..

..3!

Winner: Johnny Draco

“Kumbaya" by Hopsin cued up and Tiffany Lynn Page entered the ring to celebrate with her client. Draco was overjoyed to have picked up this big victory. Kash on the other hand sat up and put his head in his hands, another big loss puts him further away from his goal of becoming Intrepid Champion

Backstage inside The Citadel, Minoru Tanahashi strolled up towards his friend and tag team partner for the night, him in black and silver, her in pink and silver.

MINORU: Black Lion Warrior reporting.

TIGER: Pink Tiger Warrior reporting

Volta came scurrying between them wearing a blue and silver cape

VOLTA: HUANK! (Blue Kawaii Cappybara Warrior reporting.)

MINORU: Good, the squadron is here and I can now inform the world of our mission.

Minoru turned to the camera and smiled.

MINORU: Hello OATH, hello world. You know who all three of us are, but you’re probably asking why we’re gathering together and what this whole Warrior reporting thing is all about.

TIGER: If they have paid attention to Twitter then they probably have an idea.

MINORU: They might. Everyone knows that when teamed with people, I like to give us a name. You have seen The Lion Knights, The Steel Lions and tonight you will see…

MINORU, TIGER, and VOLTA: THE SUPER KAWAII THUNDER LIGER SQUADRON!

The three did a somewhat cheesy team pose and then laughed a little as Super Tiger pet Volta.

MINORU: But this isn’t going to just be a one or two time thing. Myself and Tiggy have been talking and we agreed that something was missing for us here in OATH. Other places, we have won titles and tournaments, and while I was the first and am definitely still the best Livewire champion, other than that stretch I have been hit or miss, except for tag team matches. Outside of one bullshit disqualification, those have gone well for me.

TIGER: Tag matches are also where I have seemed to thrive in OATH.

MINORU: So the two of us decided that the tag team division needed a little boost. Luckily the titles aren’t around the waists of two methed up morons anywhere. Viola Mancini has actually been friendly with me before, but still the tag division feels like it’s missing something and myself and Tiggy and of course Volta, well we realized that it’s us.

TIGER: Myself and Minoru will show the World that we are a force to be reckoned with tonight and we promise both the Sweet Treats and The Mancini Syndicate that we will be watching their match very closely, because we are coming for the winners and the titles.

MINORU: Damn right we are Tiggy. First though, Nero Darkbringer… wow, that is some kind of name. Back to the point though. Tonight we have Nero and NAS, the wrestler, not the rapper, I know I know, I am disappointed as well. The Squadron faces it’s first battle tonight against The Blacklist.

TIGER: Isn’t that a TV show?

VOLTA: HARUNK! (Yes, but it’s on NBC and only boring people watch NBC.)

Minoru looked at Volta and nodded.

MINORU: That’s a great point. TV show rip off name or not, they have been having some success as a team and a win against them tonight will show the world what the… SUPER KAWAII THUNDER LIGER SQUADRON..

Another ridiculous pose from the three of them as Volta looked quite happy right now with his cape fluttering around thanks to a nearby large fan.

MINORU: ...is all about!

Minoru pointed forward, then slashed downwards and all three rushed ahead as we went back to ringside.

The scene opened in OATH President Tommy Straker’s office where The Runaways have barged in rather abruptly. They threw their duffel bags on the floor in front of his desk where their manager Bert Cocaine slumped down in a chair that looked to be as uncomfortable as ever possible. Bert didn't care as he tossed his sunglasses on to the table. Straker had a mask of subdued annoyance on his face.

STRAKER: What do I exactly owe the pleasure, gentlemen?

Bert kind of chortled a laugh to himself.

BERT: I think you know what this is about Tommy boy.

STRAKER: Humour me.

Straker folded his hands on the desk in front of him, his sharp features forced a slightly cocked eyebrow. Bert gave a glance to his partners who shared a look before turning their attention back to the boss.

BERT: Well I think we’re done here. So if you could just go in to one of your little folders behind you and grab our contracts, we’d love to go over them to see how we can make this as amicable as possible.

Tommy was completely taken aback but he did not to show it.

STRAKER: Certainly. If you are unhappy then we certainly will not force you to be here. But before we get into the logistics of your... running away... tell me what this is all about.

Switch and Rocco slammed their hands on to the desk and stared at the boss man with a little fire in their eyes. Bert pulled on each of the arms of either of them to bring them back a little bit.

BERT: Well let’s see. You allowed people from your company to extort money out of us. Those people came in to our home and destroyed the place and now we’re left without a gym and any foreseeable opportunity at the tag team titles.

STRAKER: I’ve already taken the bill for that one. You agreed to the terms and you lost.

BERT: Regardless Tommy. You’re a businessman. Now if you were told that you couldn’t go farther than you are now, wouldn’t it be smart to cut your losses? We’re here to fight, to be called the very best, but now that title is completely out of our grasps. Where do you expect us to go from here?

Tommy leaned back in his chair for a moment of thought.

STRAKER: Well the OATH Tag Team Titles titles are not completely out of reach. It might be a little while before Mancini Syndicate loses the championships but the opportunity will rise again, I’m assure you. We just need something for you gentlemen to do. Something to keep the crowd hungry for you. There are plenty of tandems in OATH for you to face.

Bert smirked again. He shared another moment with his boys where they all nod and laughed to themselves.

BERT: Well, seeing as how I was duped out of $20,000… how about that buys us some stage time?

STRAKER: You are welcome to go to the ring to share your grievances whenever you please. That is an opportunity afforded to all roster members. Is that the type of "stage time" we are talking about?

BERT: Stage time. A concert. $20,000 should buy us a lot of air time on your show so my boys can showcase their other talents to the world. They’re more than just wrestlers you know.

STRAKER: You want me to give you air time for a concert? I do not think that is fair to the other members of the roster. This is a wrestling program.

BERT: We didn’t ask you to think, Tommy boy. You wanted to know what it is that will keep us around and have the crowd hungry for more Runaways, that’s it. My boys are more than just wrestlers, they’re absolute superstars. And we’re going to prove it.

STRAKER: Hmmm.

BERT: It’s been great talking with you Tommy. You really know how to keep your talent and the fans happy.

STRAKER: I did not...

BERT: We’ll see you next week. I’ll have my people call your people, fax over all the deets.

The Runaways picked up their bags with Straker staring them down. The boys shared a couple of high fives walking out the door, closing it behind them with Tommy Straker not really sure what he’s gotten himself in to. The OATH President sat back in his chair and slowly developed a devious grin...

SINGLES MATCH The Blacklist vs. Super Kawaii Thunder Liger Squad

The next contest saw the team of The Blacklist -- Nas and his protege Nero Darkbringer come to Conviction for the first time. Their opponents were the newly formed team of the Super Kawaii Thunder Liger Squadron of Minoru Tanahashi and Super Tiger with the capybara mascot Volta by their side.

PETRIE: What the FUCK is that thing?

MEARS: That is FM Young’s pet capybara Volta.

PETRIE: Good lord is that thing ugly.

Tiger and Minoru did a game Rock Paper Scissors to see who would start the contest but the capybara put it’s paw up at the last second and pointed at Tiger. Minoru shrugged and Tiger was set to start the match against Nas.

PETRIE: I don’t understand any of this.

MEARS: You’re getting old.

PETRIE: Or this is all very dumb.

MEARS: I like it. Wrestling doesn’t need to be all blood and guts. Our competitors are allowed to enjoy what they do and it appears that Minoru and Tiger are very much enjoying being a team.

PETRIE: Hooray for them.

Tiger and Nas locked up and the veteran shot Tiger into the ropes and then followed her in with a knee to the midsection. Nas attempted to take Tiger over with a suplex but she slipped out of his grip and took him backward with an O’Connor roll!

1..!

MEARS: Nearfall for the new team!

Nas kicked out immediately and cracked Tiger with a roundhouse kick. She responded with some leg kicks of her own and then tagged in Minoru. Minoru slipped into the ring and met Nas with a series of quick knife edge chops. Nas then responded with some of his own. Before you knew it the two were going back and forth with brutal chops.

PETRIE: I like Nas. I like his unapologetic everything.

MEARS: I don’t know what you mean.

PETRIE: You know...his whole...deal.

Minoru broke the stalemate with a European uppercut that sent Nas reeling backward into a corner where Darkbringer made a blind tag. Minoru told Darkbringer to come at him as Volta honked from ringside. Darkbringer chose to exit to the ring and move on the opposing team’s mascot.

PETRIE: Yeah! Go poison that fucking thing!

MEARS: You are horrible.

PETRIE: I don’t like vermin!

Super Tiger wasn’t about to let Darkbringer go after the defenseless animal, she ran across the apron and took Darkbringer down with a meteora from the apron! While the referee was distracted trying to get Darkbringer back in the ring, Nas slipped through the ropes and caught Minoru off guard with a 12 Gauge Blast (Shotgun Stunner)!

MEARS: Nas just surprised Minoru! The veteran with the sly move.

Darkbringer planted Super Tiger with a Swinging Reverse STO on the outside and then got to his feet with a satisfied smile. Darkbringer flipped Volta off and then slid into the ring. Minoru was up to his feet but Darkbringer met him with a uranage! Darkbringer hoisted Minoru up in the nearest corner and then brought him out with Career Killer (Muscle Buster)! Darkbringer covered.

1..

2..!

MEARS: Nearfall for The Blacklist! They were unable to become Number One Contenders to the Tag Team Titles a few weeks ago but a win tonight would most definitely secure them another opportunity to vie for the titles.

PETRIE: I’d like to see it! I like these guys!

Minoru kicked out and Darkbringer went to tag in Nas but Minoru was back up and out of desperation, Minoru darted forward and hit a dropkick to the back of Darkbringer’s head. Darkbringer was sent lurching forward and he accidently knocked Nas off the apron! Minoru then brought Darkbringer over with a belly to back suplex and applied the Keimusho Saifu (Paradise Lock)! Minoru tagged in Tiger and the duo looked at each other before simultaneously yelling “Megasandāroketto!”. The two then pointed at the tied up Darkbringer and both members of the Squadron hit Darkbringer with dropkicks on either side of his body. Tiger covered.

1..

2..

..!

MEARS: SKTLS are very much in sync here tonight Bad Mood!

PETRIE: She’s a damn sight better than Minoru’s last tag team partner.

MEARS: That’s not very nice.

Nas flew into the ring to break up the pin but as soon as he was up to his feet Minoru blasted him with Akihabara Dreams (Yakuza Kick)! Nas dropped but then the Squadron both shouted “Squadron Maneuver Number Seven!”. Minoru brought Nas up for a powerbomb and Tiger came off the top rope with a meteora! Nas was driven into the mat and he rolled out of the ring to recover.

MEARS: SKTLS are dominating right now!

PETRIE: I honestly didn’t see this coming. I thought they were a comedy tag team.

With Nas out of the picture, the SKTLS were able to take Darkbringer and drop him with their finishing combination. Tiger set Darkbringer up for a Tiger suplex and Minoru hit a Yakuza kick to Darkbringer’s face sending him over in the suplex into a bridge -- the ThunderLigerPlex had Darkbringer pinned to the mat.

1..

2..

..3!

Winners: Super Kawaii Thunder Liger Squadron

“Legends Never Die” started playing and Volta was lifted up into the ring by a stagehand. SKTLS posed in the middle of the ring as the fans cheered for the successful new tag team.

Outside Locke Helms’ dressing room was Jenna Sharpe, carrying a very large Edible Arrangement full of colorful fruit dipped in chocolate. She set it down in front of the door and picked up the card, opening it up to reveal the blank space inside.

JENNA: You know, it really should be Matt Shields dropping this off, but since he’s of the mind that only winning matters, I can’t expect that he’ll have the good manners to thank the person responsible for his win. So I’ve taken it upon myself to do that for him.

With a shrug of her shoulders, Jenna took a pen out of her purse and scrawled a quick note in a neat, looping cursive, her eyes scanned it to make sure it came across exactly how she wants it to.

JENNA: Sure, maybe it’s a bit unusual, but Matt really does owe a debt of gratitude to Locke Helms. After all, had the leader of The Hell Realm taken his elimination like a man, we may very well have had a different outcome at Hell and Back. But instead, Locke Helms opted to decide the outcome of the match for himself, taking me out so that Matt could get the elimination and the win.

Biting her lower lip, Jenna tapped the pen against her full lips, thinking about whether or not she should add anything more to the note.

JENNA: Takes a really big man to come in and make sure that the person who’s been in the match since the beginning, who’s outlasted eleven other competitors and eliminated four of them, doesn’t get what she’s worked for. But that’s the way things tend to go in this company, isn’t it? Doesn’t matter what I do, everyone has to belittle me and patronize me and take away things that they don’t want me to have.

Eventually deciding that what she’d written was enough, Jenna signed her name on the card with a flourish.

JENNA: Locke didn’t want me to get the win because I eliminated him. One of the most elite competitors in OATH, tossed out of the ring by a rookie, and he can’t deal with it. That’s really, truly too bad for him. Because he’s going to end up like Josie Wales and Leah Aguero. He wants to fuck with me, that’s fine. But he should be prepared for the hell I’ll unleash upon him because of it.

She shook her head in disappointment, taking her lipstick out of her purse after putting the pen away and applying a fresh coat. As if a lightbulb had gone off above her head, Jenna bent down and picks up the card again.

JENNA: Tonight I have to settle for Astaroth, but mark my words - Locke Helms owes me a debt. And I will be collecting on it sooner, rather than later.

She pressed her lips to the card, leaving a bold print in MAC’s Ruby Woo next to her signature, as if sealing her promise to Locke Helms with a kiss.

SINGLES MATCH Astaroth vs. Jenna Sharpe

The next contest had two competitors but it was really a one woman show. Astaroth came to the ring without his Hell Realm cohorts but he seemed ready to prove his mettle against the upstart “Canadian Wildcat” Jenna Sharpe. Jenna made her way to the ring to a good response from her fellow Canadians in The Citadel.

MEARS: Jenna Sharpe truly impressed me in the Thirteen Ghosts Battle Royal last week but thanks to Astaroth’s mentor Locke Helms, she was unable to get the victory.

PETRIE: Helms barely had anything to do with it! Matt Shields is just unstoppable!

The contest began with Astaroth circling around Jenna quickly. Every time she tried to shoot in on him, Astaroth would do some luchador bullshit to evade her grasp. This went on for some time until Jenna finally caught the spooky luchador with a basement dropkick to the knee. Astaroth tried to rally back but Jenna planted him with a Michinoku driver!

PETRIE: Astaroth is toying with Jenna! He’s letting her do all of this.

MEARS: I sincerely doubt that.

Jenna kept Astaroth on the mat with some brutal strikes before she applied the Devil's Trap (Last Chancery)! Astaroth had nowhere to go and the low man on the Hell Realm totem pole had no choice but to tap out.

Winner: Jenna Sharpe

"Missile" by Dorothy kicked up and Jenna got in Astaroth’s face. She said to the masked man, “Tell your boss that we have business.” before she released him and got her hand raised by the referee.

Backstage in The Citadel we went and Vince Valerie was standing mid-shot with a microphone. You know knew what was coming -- it was backstage interview time. He got the cue from the cameraman.

VALERIE: Vince Valerie here, and my guest at this time is on something of a roll here in OATH Pro Wrestling, recently competing in the Thirteen Ghosts Battle Royal at Hell and Back -- Erik Holland, welcome!

Erik stepped into the shot, glowering at the camera behind those welder’s goggles as Lyric sauntered in next to him, grinning at the camera as Vince continued to talk.

VALERIE: Erik, you’ve recently announced your intention to challenge for the Intrepid Championship and so far, you’re living up to Mr. Straker’s request that you win five straight singles matches. You’re facing Alex Pierce tonight, and if you win you’ll be one victory away from earning the opportunity but the question on everyone’s mind is...why the Intrepid title?

Erik tilted his head down quizzically at Vince, not saying anything just yet.

VALERIE: We all at OATH have to wonder why it’s the Intrepid Championship you’ve zeroed in on, being that you're a former World Champion and your proclivities lean a little more extreme, shall we say.

Erik slowly lowered his face covering, gesturing at Vince to raise his microphone up so he could speak comfortably with his 6’6” frame.

VALERIE: You answered your own question to a degree Vince. It is precisely because the public has pigeonholed me into a box that I decided to change their expectations about me all over again. The Intrepid title, the rules, they come from TRADITION. 15 minute time limit. To be the Champ, you gotta beat the Champ, and if you lose in any, ANY fashion you lose the title. You got no one and nothing to count on out there except your wits and your skills, and you know what -- that sounded right up my alley. That sounded like that was the kind of challenge I NEEDED. That sounded like a championship I could take to heights that no one in this industry has even thought of. It may not be the carnage you’re used to, it may not be the pain and punishment you're used to from me...but once again I can show OATH Pro Wrestling that I can do a few more things than swing some chairs and break some tables, as fun as that is.

Erik now pulled up the goggles off his eyes, to show you a pair of menacing brown eyes.

HOLLAND: I’ve been at the top of my game, competing against all kinds of different opponents and beating every damn one of them and you know why that is, Vince? It is -because the Intrepid Champion..is FM Young. FM Young and I, we have a history based on mutual respect. I haven’t been shy about saying that I think FM Young is one of the most underrated competitors in this company. Maybe in this business. On the same token, I feel like I am the only one that is anywhere close to her level. So I’ll get one step closer to completing this challenge by defeating Alex Pierce tonight.

Vince wanted Holland to elaborate on that.

VALERIE: Do you have any bad blood towards Alex Pierce for eliminating you from the Thirteen Ghosts Battle Royal last week at Hell And Back?

Erik smiled confidently.

HOLLAND: What did I do to him after that happened?

Vince adjusted his tie.

VALERIE: You, ah...powerbombed him through a coffin.

Erik looked at him like ‘enough said’ before turning back toward the camera.

HOLLAND: So I think I managed my anger in that little situation. Now? He’s simply the fourth opponent that stands between me and a shot at the Intrepid Championship. Alex Pierce is hungry, Alex Pierce is talented -- he may think he can get some recognition, some PUB in OATH Pro Wrestling by beating Erik Holland and tripping me up at the finish line but, Vince, I got news for ya -- there is no one in this company that can keep me from getting what I want and I have proved that over and over again. I WILL beat Alex Pierce tonight, I will win my fifth match after that -- and then you're looking at the new Intrepid Champion.

He stopped speaking now, slowly pulling up the face covering and lowering down the goggles. Vince stepped back into the center of the shot.

VALERIE: Erik Holland, folks, calling his shot here in OATH Pro Wrestling, GUARANTEEING victory tonight. Back to ringside!

Ryan Terror kicked in the door to Mr. Straker’s office. He stepped inside with a look of anger on his face. He was followed in by the remainder of the Hell Realm.

TERROR: WHY IN THE FUCK WOULD YOU GIVE THOSE REJECTS A CONCERT? THEIR MUSIC MAKES RAY CHARLES TURN OVER IN HIS FUCKING GRAVE!

Ryan seethed more as he stood there facing Straker. He wanted an answer which he wasn’t given. Straker just stared at Ryan. Straker is not Barlow, he will not be intimidated by someone coming into his private office to scream at him. After a few tense moments, Adrestia Nyx spoke up.

NYX: These guys are going to stink up the fucking joint. Instead of wrestling you’re going allow shitty music to taint the ears of our audience. I guess you need some money to your concession stands. Got to stuff these idiots with as much beer and hotdogs as possible, huh?

A beat.

Ryan slammed his fist onto the desk and stared a hole into Straker.

TERROR: You’re going to regret this, Straker.

Ryan made motion to the rest of the team to leave the office. He then lightly closed the door. Helms had otherwise remained quiet during Ryan's entire speech, simply leaning against a wall in the room with his arms crossed over his chest as he listened to the other man state his issues before following the others out.

When they were out in the hallway, Locke spoke in his usual calm, reflective tones.

HELMS: So what is the plan now, Ryan? We could make an example out of that little monkey, Jenna, and work our way upwards?

TERROR: That’s the plan right now. We’ve got to show the world we’re no to be fucked with.

Locke allowed himself one of his rare real smiles.

HELMS: Good, but calm down a little my friend. Yes, we are surrounded by complete and utter fucktards that would see us be nothing more than jobber fodder..but we hold ourselves to a higher standard don't we?

Locke's smile then became a bit more dark.

HELMS: How does the old saying go, "Never hate your enemies, it gives them an advantage"? We will make Jenna understand what it means to cross the Realm as a more exquisite example to Young, Tanahashi, and all of the other weak minded fools that they represent in their arrogance. I have faith in this.

Ryan calmed down a bit. He smiled for once and smirked.

TERROR: I’ve got faith in this as well. We as a group are going to be the dominant entity here in OATH. Now it's time to show the world.

Locke nodded in reassurance to Ryan before taking in the rest of the Realm with an even gaze but proud gaze.

HELMS: Very good, my brother. But let us all remember that and most of all, while we're making examples of the little bastards...who says that we devils' can't enjoy ourselves as we go, yes..my brothers and sister?

Ryan nodded and Adrestia did the same.

NYX: Well now, let’s go cause some damage my brothers.

SINGLES MATCH Erik Holland vs. Alex Pierce

“The Haunted” Erik Holland made his way to the ring flanked by his paramour Lyric. The duo got a good response, Holland had been redeeming himself in the eyes of the fans since his poor performance in the Event Horizon Series. There were more pro-Holland signs in the crowd than we have seen in some time. Maybe Holland was happy about it, it was impossible to tell because of the goggles covering his eyes and the bandana around the lower half of his face. If Holland was able to defeat Pierce here tonight then he would only have to win one more match to earn a shot at the Intrepid Championship.

MEARS: This is match four in Erik Holland’s proposed five match series. If he wins tonight then only one more person stands in his way towards an Intrepid Championship match!

PETRIE: Let’s not worry about opponent number five. Opponent number four is not someone to be underestimated.

“The Fire Fist Ace” Alex Pierce was out next to the tune of "Let 'em Come (Redux)" by Scroobius Pip, Sage Francis, & P.O.S. and the fans were not pleased to see him. Since returning to OATH a few weeks ago Pierce had found himself in some high profile matches -- even competing for the Intrepid Championship that Holland so desperately wants to fight for. With both men in the ring the referee called for the opening bell.

MEARS: Two big hosses are set to go to war tonight in Toronto!

PETRIE: Hosses? The fuck does that mean?

MEARS: You know what it means. Don’t be obtuse.

Almost instantly, the two big bulls came to the middle of the ring and started exchanging shots back and forth. Holland got the early advantage, due to his size and he blasted Pierce in the midsection with a heavy body shot. You could see the agony on Pierce’s face as Holland hit him with a second shot, then a third. Holland moved to hit Pierce with a wind up lariat but Pierce blocked it and levelled Holland with an uppercut. Holland was staggered back into the ropes and Pierce took him over the top rope to the floor with a discus clothesline!

MEARS: Erik Holland was near the top of the mountain during Alex Pierce’s first OATH run. Now they are on even ground and Alex is taking the fight to The Haunted.

The Fire Fist Ace slipped through the ropes to the floor and advanced toward Holland as Lyric watched on. The Haunted was quickly back up to his feet and he moved on Pierce but Pierce evaded a strike attempt from Holland and took him over with a Backdraft (High Angle Belly-To-Back Suplex) that saw the back of Holland’s head hit the bottom step of the steel stairs. The camera closed in and showed that Holland’s eyes had rolled into the back of his head.

MEARS: That’s a dangerous way to land Bad Mood.

PETRIE: Looks like Ol’ Rikky caught the edge of those steps with the back of his head. I’d say that brain damage would be a concern but he’s already too far gone.

Pierce got the hulking monster back into the ring and casually walked up the steps. Lyric tried to call out to Holland but that shot to the back of the head really hurt Holland. Back in the ring Pierce hit some stomps to the back of Holland’s head, targeting the back of his head as best as he could. Holland tried to cover up but Pierce hauled him up and took him over with a heavy German suplex. Holland landed on the back of his head and Pierce stacked him up with a pin.

1..

2..!

MEARS: Alex with the first near fall of the contest.

PETRIE: I legitimately think Holland is hurt. Guy has spent his career in deathmatches and all kinds of shit like that. He has had dozens of concussions.

MEARS: Know that for a fact do you?

PETRIE: No not really.

Holland was able to kick out but it was clear that Pierce was firmly in control of this contest. The crowd isn’t really sure what to think because they weren’t used to Holland getting dominated in this way. Pierce dropped some sharp elbows to Holland’s face and then got him up to his feet. Holland tried to rally back with some strikes but Pierce easily blocked it and took Holland over with a belly to back suplex that saw Holland land on the back of his head again.

MEARS: Alex has found his target and he is locked in.

The Fire Fist Ace was in complete control now and he started stomping on Holland some more. Pierce got Holland up to his feet and shot him into the ropes but on Holland’s return the former OATH World Champion was able to catch Pierce off guard with a surprise Plan 9 from Outer Space (Superman Punch)! Pierce was dropped! And the crowd erupted for The Haunted. Holland shook out the cobwebs, and was ready for some retribution.

MEARS: Erik Holland is about to turn this contest around!

PETRIE: Maybe. He took some nasty bumps on the noggin.

Holland decided that the best way to get the momentum back on his side was to climb to the top rope, something extremely rare for him. Pierce got up and couldn’t find Holland anywhere -- that was until the near 300 pounder came off the top rope with a flying clothesline to take Pierce down! The fans in The Citadel were on their feet as Pierce was hauled up to his feet. Holland grabbed Pierce by the throat and pulled him in to stare right into his eyes.

PETRIE: I just pissed a little.

With his hand around Pierce’s throat, Holland lifted Pierce up for a chokeslam but as soon as Pierce was a foot off the mat he was able to break Holland’s grip and then he caught Holland off guard with a Backfist to the Future (Spinning Backfist)! Holland crumpled to the mat and Pierce covered him, using the bulk of his frame to keep Holland’s shoulders down.

MEARS: This could be all!

1..

2..

..!

The Haunted was able to kick out but Pierce knew that he needed to do a lot more to keep Holland down. Pierce positioned Holland for (Rainmaker) but Holland dipped under it, got Pierce up and dropped him with the Toxic Avenger (Death Valley Driver). Holland covered.

1..

2..

..3!

Winner: Erik Holland

“The Haunted” by Walls of Jericho. Holland shows five fingers to the camera, puts down four. Only one match left to go. Then he dropped to a knee and checked the back of his head for blood, there was a small amount.

We saw Vince Valerie walking the halls of The Citadel and he was looking quite nervous. He kept double checking his suit to make sure he looked prim and proper. After all, he needed to make a good impression given the subject matter on this next interview tonight, given that it's one of the most powerful women in the New York underground. He reached his destination -- Viola Mancini and Janica Jayden were dressed in ring gear, readying for war, as Vince turned and spoke to the camera.

VALERIE: Ladies and gentlemen, I'm here with the brand new OATH Tag Team Champions, who had managed to secure the belts in very unfriendly territory..."

He said, gesturing to Viola and Janica, as the crowd watching instinctively booed them.

VALERIE: Ladies, you went to the Sharpe Dungeon after a plan that was very well executed by you, Ms. Mancini...

As Vince tried to butter her up, Viola looked at him with disgust and took the microphone from him.

VIOLA: Yeah, I did. I was the one that conquered the Sharpe Dynasty, while pissants like you watched on your television, hoping and praying to whatever ass backwards diety you worship here.

She said, knowing it would get under the skin of the Canadian audience.

VIOLA: That's the thing about people like you, Vince... You're weak. You wouldn't have what it takes to make it outside of this cushy little job OATH gives you. In my line of work, women are only seen as trinkets... objects of affection. A woman has to work five times as hard as a man to make it, and sometimes for half the credit. But, I did it. Janica and I won the tag titles, defeating one of the most powerful tag teams your country has to offer...

She said, turning to Janica and letting off a very confident nod.

VIOLA: It's been a long journey for you, hasn't it?

JANICA: Yeah... 7 years, clawing and scratching through dive bars and awful LFL teams. But, it finally happened...

VIOLA: I told you, Janica. You follow me, and I will lead you to wealth and power you had only dreamed about! You suffered and suffered for years, and now you have a title you can call your own! Well, thanks to my four months in the ring, myself...

Viola said, tossing her hair with a bit of a humble brag, as she knew it would get under her skin.

JANICA: Oh, I've heard. Just a reminder, you need me, too.

Viola acted as if she was offended, and gave Janica a supportive reply.

VIOLA: Of course, Janica! These are Tag Team Titles, after all. Titles we plan to hold until we're nothing but dust and bones. Now, stop being so negative! We've got titles to defend, and a legacy to build.

JANICA: Yeah, you're right. We've seen you two... Alex and Kallie, we know you're both hungry, begging for our titles. However, we're not giving them up easily.

VIOLA: The Sweet Treats, as they call themselves, are nothing but pretenders. They had a fortunate win over The Dynamic Duo on Livewire, which admittedly was an interesting watch. However, we have studied you, and we are going to exploit you for the pretenders you are. You will not hold these titles, so long as we draw breath!

JANICA: Consider this a notice to every team on the roster, we are now, and forever, the OATH Tag Team Champions, and there isn't a damn thing you can do about it!

Janica said, as Viola tossed the mic back at Vince's chest, not giving him an ounce of attention. Janica followed in suit, while the camera fades out.

The Sweet Treats, Kellie Reznik and Alex Andrews were seen getting out of their car as they arrived in the parking lot of The Citadel. They moved around to the back of the car and started grabbing their bags, pulling out suitcases and Alex pulled a backpack on over her shoulders. The two shared a glance at one another and a bright smile crept up on each of their faces.

ALEX: Can you believe it? This is it!

KALLIE: I know, right?

Alex chuckled and tugged on the straps of her backpack, tightening it to her liking. She then looks up at The Citadel for a moment.

ALEX: It won't be easy. Did you see all that crazy stuff both teams went through at Hell and Back? Just bonkers...

KALLIE: Yeah, and a main factor they won was due to Cosa Nostra and outnumbering The Runways.

ALEX: I guess we shouldn't be too terribly surprised given their...connections...

The two shared a nervous laugh together.

KALLIE: They aren't going take us seriously, you know.

ALEX: Yeah, I know. Nobody does. They see our bright bubbly personalities and think we are naive children playing at the whole wrestling thing. They don't see the passion we have, or the time we've put into this. They don't see how serious we take this. Well, that's going to change.

KALLIE: Definitely. We take home those OATH Tag Team Titles and they'll have no choice but to see that we mean business.

They smiled at one another and bumped knuckles together as they started walking towards The Citadel proper. Outside of The Pillar and Post were a group of fans socializing, talking amongst each other. Kallie and Alex noticed them, but continued to walk towards the arena. The group of fans recognized them and make their way over.

FAN #1: It's them! The Sweet Treats!

They smiled and started making pleasantries with the fans when they noticed that the guys were all wearing the same shirt. A riff off of THEIR shirt. Alex tilted her head and pointed it out.

ALEX: The Sweet...Boys?

FAN #2: Yeah, that's us! We are your biggest fans. We love just about everything about you two. You guys aren't the dark brooding bullies that populate most of the roster.

ALEX: Aww, that's so flattering.

Kallie shared a quick look with Alex, obviously a little taken back by such.. intense fans.

KALLIE: Nice...haircut.

FAN #1: Thank you, I bleached it and tried to style it after your look, Kallie. I think I pulled it off.

That nervous chuckle popped back out of Kallie's mouth.

KALLIE: It's...something.

Alex stepped in.

ALEX: Hey, guys, we need to get inside and get ready for our big match. Can't win those titles if we aren't there!

They all smiled at one another.

FAN #2: That's right. You guys gonna come away with those belts, right?

KALLIE: We are sure going to try. Nobody in that building wants it more than us! I promise you that. Nice meeting you guys and really, thank you for the support. It mean the world to us.

ALEX: It truly does. Thank you so much.

The Sweet Treats smiled broadly at their zealous fan base and nodded as they pick back up their gym bags and took a few steps back before they turned away and went towards the arena and the employee entrance.

KALLIE: We got this.

ALEX: Darn right we do.

They suppressed a giggle and nodded to one another as they open the door to the arena, getting their game faces on.

• MAIN EVENT • OATH TAG TEAM CHAMPIONSHIP TAG TEAM MATCH Sweet Treats vs. Mancini Syndicate ©

The main event was for the OATH Tag Team Championships. The fairly new team of Sweet Treats came to the ring to a very good response. Alex Andrews and Kallie Reznik reached the bottom of the ramp and there along the railing, directly across from the hard camera, were a group of Sweet Boys sitting in the front row. Six impassioned men in their early 30s sat wearing their custom t-shirts and cheered for Alex and Kallie as loud as humanly possible. Sweet Treats did their best to acknowledge the men politely but opted not to enter the ring on that side. The men begged for them to come over and shake their hands but it was clear that these dudes might get a bit too...physical.

PETRIE: You have to love the passion of these fans! Even if they are supporting the wrong team.

MEARS: Those fans in particular are very...unique!

PETRIE: They appear to be in their thirties but their enthusiasm screams that they are young at heart!

MEARS: It screams something.

The new OATH Tag Team Champions, Viola Mancini and Janica Jayden were out next and they were greeted by boos. Or at least, Viola was. Viola made sure that she walked to the ring in front of Janica and was also carrying both championship titles. They reached the ring and Viola gestured for Janica to open the ropes for her but Janica just shook her head and slid into the ring under the bottom rope. Viola cocked an eyebrow, ascended the stairs and stepped inside.

MEARS: The dynamic between the coholders of the Tag Team Titles is very...unique.

PETRIE: Every team needs a leader Matty. Viola is the leader, Janica is the soldier. Seems to be working out for them so far!

MEARS: They are the OATH Tag Team Champions so I can not disagree.

The referee took both titles from Viola and held them in the air. Both Andrews and Reznik looked up at the titles longingly, while Janica kept her eyes focussed on her opponents. The Sweet Boys in the front row started angrily shouting some truly heinous shit at the Mancini Syndicate. Janica seemed to take it to heart but Viola clearly didn’t give a shit. She had heard much worse from much more intimidating men.

MEARS: These gentlemen in the front row -- they are causing quite the disturbance!

PETRIE: That’s what wrestling is! Passion! Enthusiasm!

MEARS: Neckbeards?

PETRIE: Sometimes!

The bell signalled the start of the match and Janica went to start for her team. Viola held Janica back and said that she would get the ball rolling. Janica was clearly perturbed but dared not argue with her partner at the beginning of such an important match. Alex and Kallie had clearly decided who would start the match back in the locker room -- Kallie got the nod. Viola and Kallie circled each other and although Kallie tried to push the pace from the get go, things did not exactly go as she planned.

MEARS: Here comes the speedster Kallie Reznik to start the match off for Sweet Treats.

PETRIE: Kallie was kind of shit when she started in OATH but since teaming with Alex she is...less so.

MEARS: I don’t know that “shit” is the right word. She stumbled a little in the beginning but now she has found her groove and she is in the main event of Conviction!

Kallie knew that she had to hit and run but when she attempted an initial Irish whip Viola just pulled her into a massive forearm smash. Kallie was rocked and Viola maintained wrist control. La Capa forced Kallie into the corner and lit her up with a series of knife edge chops. Viola backed away and then charged in looking for a diving front dropkick but Kallie moved out of the way, stepped off the middle rope and while Viola was on all fours Kallie came down on her spine with a flying double stomp.

MEARS: Kallie Reznik with a brutal stomp to The Godmother!

PETRIE: She will pay for that show of disrespect. With blood!

The Butterfly of Aurora quickly tagged in Alex and then the two charged and nailed Viola with a double dropkick into the corner. The Sweet Boys in the front row were screeching in support, it was pretty fucking weird. Alex held Viola in the corner and then shot Viola right into a hip toss from Kallie. Viola landed on her tailbone and Kallie hit her with a seated flipping neckbreaker. Alex dove into the cover and Janica watched from her corner, looking somewhat worried.

PETRIE: Do your job Janica! Get in the fucking ring!

MEARS: Perhaps she believes that The Godmother has enough in the tank to kick out.

PETRIE: Of course she does!

1..

2!

Viola kicked out but Alex kept her grounded with a chin lock. Viola fought up to her feet and The Godmother’s usual calm demeanor was nonexistent. The excellent tag team continuity between was clearly pissing her off. Viola nailed some sharp elbows to Alex’s midsection to break the hold and then Viola shot her into the Syndicate corner. Viola charged in and hit Alex with a clothesline and Janica made the tag. Viola brought Alex out of the corner with a bulldog. Janica slipped into the ring and set Alex up for a Russian legs weep. Viola took a few steps back and then charged in to hit the Russian legsweep/STO combination. As Janica covered, Viola ran across the ring and blasted Kallie in the face with a running forearm smash.

PETRIE: Say whatever the fuck you want about the dynamic between Viola and Janica but they have some incredible tandem moves. They are the champions for a reason!

MEARS: Lies and deception also had a lot to do with them getting the gold.

PETRIE: Wrestling is far more than what happens in the ring.

MEARS: True enough.

The referee went to check on Kallie while Viola remained in the ring. Janica climbed to the top rope and Viola hit Alex with a pendulum backbreaker. Viola held Alex in place as Janica climbed to the top rope. With Alex bent over Viola’s knee, Janica flew off the top rope with a leg drop. Viola grabbed the referee and directed him (not gently) toward Janica but the referee got in Viola’s face and told her not to put her hands on him. Viola, not used to being chastised, shot the referee a glare that implied murderous intent. Janica released her pin and started putting the boots to Alex as Viola took her place on the apron.

MEARS: Alex Andrews has to make the tag to Kallie Reznik or they can kiss their dreams of becoming Tag Team Champions goodbye.

PETRIE: I wonder what their fans will do if they lose?

MEARS: Complain about it on the internet is my guess.

Kallie was back up in the Sweet Treats corner now and her arm was outstretched for the tag. Alex wasn’t going anywhere quickly as Janica grabbed her boot by the ankle and attempted to drag her back toward the Syndicate corner. Ever the agile athlete, Alex hopped up onto her free leg and went for an enziguiri but Janica ducked under it and then switched her position into a reverse waist lock. Janica attempted to throw Lady Limitless backward with a German suplex but Alex shifted her weight forward and put Janica down on the mat with a modified Oklahoma roll! The audience popped, the Sweet Boys were losing their minds, the referee made the count!

MEARS: Alex with the pin! Lady Limitless is gonna win the titles for her team!

1..

2..

..!

PETRIE: Looks like she does have a limit. It’s a two count.

Janica was able to kick out and as she did, she launched Alex toward her own corner and Alex dove forward and flew into a perfect tag to Kallie. Kallie hit a springboard into the ring and blasted Janica right in the chest with a dropkick! Janica went down and Kallie immediately grabbed her and whipped her right into a Samoan drop from Alex. Viola entered the ring and tried to get the jump on Kallie but was caught with an elbow to the jaw. Viola staggered back and then got wrecked with Double Elysiums (Bicycle Kicks) from Sweet Treats.

MEARS: Sweet Treats are starting to cook now. They need to push the pace of this contest and avoid the brawling, technical nature of the Mancini Syndicate.

PETRIE: Stick and move like cowards! The Sweet Boys should be cheering for the Syndicate!

MEARS: I don’t see that happening. Those particular fans are obsessed!

The Sweet Boys were in the front row trying to get a loud, obnoxious “SWEET TREATS” chant going but they were clearly annoying everyone around them. Kallie and Alex got Janica up and they whipped her into the ropes, on her return Sweet Treats hit her with a double hip toss. Janica landed right on her tailbone, seated. Kallie and Alex both hit the ropes and cracked Janica in the back of the head with a double basement dropkicks.

MEARS: The Tag Team Titles are within Sweet Treats grasp!

Viola rushed the challengers and Alex caught her in a fireman’s carry. Kallie then darted in and dropped Viola with a DDT off of Alex’s shoulders, completing the Pop Lock and Drop It combination. Viola and Janica slipped to the outside and tried to regroup but Alex and Kallie hit the opposing ropes and then charged across the ring to fly over the top rope to the outside with double suicide planchas! All four competitors were down and found themselves in front of The Sweet Boys in the front row! Alex and Kallie slipped Janica into the ring but Viola grabbed Alex and brought her back with a roll up that wasn’t meant to pin Alex but to send the back of her head into the guardrail! The Sweet Boys screamed at Viola as she followed Kallie into the ring.

PETRIE: Beautiful move from Viola Mancini! Andrews isn’t going anywhere!

MEARS: This could be bad for Sweet Treats.

Kallie climbed up to the top rope and measured Janica but Viola was on the apron. On the outside Alex was seeing small birds flying around her head in a circle and when she went to get in the ring to help her partner, one of the Sweet Boys embraced her from behind! He was hugging her!

MEARS: Security get over there! What the hell is this?

PETRIE: The love of the people!

MEARS: This is extremely inappropriate.

That’s assault brother! In the ring Viola shoved Kallie off the top rope and she did a front flip, landing on her back with a thud. Janica quickly got Kallie up in a piledriver and Viola pushed down on Kallie’s legs to execute the Icepick Lobotomy double team! Kallie’s head was driven into the mat and Janica covered. Alex broke free from the grip of one of the Sweet Boys and went to slide into the ring but Viola met her with a punt to the side of the head. The referee made the count.

1..

2..

..3!

Winners: Still OATH Tag Team Champions, Mancini Syndicate.

“Fast Life" by Kool G Rap & Nas kicked up and the referee handed the Tag Team Titles over to the Syndicate. The Sweet Boys in the front row were approached by security and a giant argument ensued. Alex entered the ring to console Kallie and the two of them turned their attention to their “fans”. The perpetrator screamed “I’m sorry!” as Conviction XXXVI came to a close.

---

Results: • Johnny Draco def. Kasey Kash

• Super Kawaii Thunder Liger Squadron def. The Blacklist

• Jenna Sharpe def. Astaroth

• Erik Holland def. Alex Pierce

• Mancini Syndicate def. Sweet Treats; Still Tag Team Champions