MAINSTREAM 69 - ST LOUIS - 06/20/2021

[Robert Daniels]

Battleground Network Presents

MAINSTREAM WRESTLING 69
SUNDAY - 06/20/2021
ENTERPRISE CENTER
ST LOUIS, MISSOURI

MAINSTREAM WRESTLING IS LIVE FROM ST LOUIS, MISSOURI AND WE’RE INSIDE THE ENTERPRISE CENTER FOR MAINSTREAM 69!

SINGLES MATCH

★★★ AJ KNIGHT ★★★
vs
★★★ ETHAN LUCAS ★★★

The bell rings and this match is officially underway with UWL World Champion AJ Knight circling the ring causing Ethan Lucas to Storm forward out the gate. But then Knight rolls out to the floor as Lucas steps forward for a lock up. AJ paces around ringside, letting the referee count.

…1!
…2!
…3!
…4!
…5!
…6!
…7!
…8!
…9!
…10!
…11!
…12!
…13!
…14!
…15!
…16!
…17!
…18!
…19!

Knighr rolls back in at the count of nineteen. AJ again circles Lucas before rolling to the floor again. AJ continues pacing the floor.

…1!
…2!
…3!
…4!
…5!
…6!
…7!
…8!
…9!
…10!
…11!
…12!
…13!
…14!
…15!
…16!
…17!
…18!
…19!

…again he rolls in at the count of nineteen. Before immediately rolling back out again! Lucas is sick of it at this point and charges after AJ, who rolls back in as soon as Lucas leaves the ring! Lucas rushes back in and AJ starts laying in boots to Ethan Lucas! AJ pulls him up and  blasts him with a European Uppercut knocking him back into the ropes!

AJ cuts Lucas off with a shoulder thrust to the mid section,  before picking him up in a fireman's carry. AJ drops him across his knee with a gutbuster. AJ pulls him up and whips him hard sternum first into the turnbuckle ricocheting him off the buckle and flat on his back! AJ charges in and gives him a running elbow drop on the chest and he makes the cover for 1…2…KICKOUT!

AJ slaps on a seated abdominal stretch,  but Lucas quickly makes the ropes, but AJ isn't breaking the hold!

…1!
…2!
…3!
…4!

The referee gets to the count of four before AJ breaks, reminding the referee that he has until five! AJ lifts up his challenger with fists to the temple he looks for an Irish whip but it’s reversed by Lucas! AJ catches himself on the ropes and ducks an attempt at Lights Out! AJ hits a dropkick to the chest! AJ grabs him in a front chancery and pulls him to the corner and hits a snap suplex into the buckle! AJ pivots the hips and hits another one to the mat! AJ picks him up a third time, and hits him with a slingshot suplex! Lucas pulls himself backup and AJ locks in a bear hug!

The UWL World Champion is temporarily the in full control before Ethan Lucas looks to bite Knight causing him to break the hold. The official warns Lucas but he disregards and is looking for the somersault slingshot lariat! AJ bails to the outside! Lucas has had enough and follows the UWL champion to the outside...But AJ pulls the apron out as he slides to the floor, trapping Lucas between the apron and the ring! AJ starts lighting him up with shoulder thrusts and European uppercuts to the ribs! AJ then wraps the right arm of Lucas around bottom rope while he's still trapped in the apron, places a boot on his chest and begins pulling with all of his might as the referee comes out to separate the two.

The official is heated and he warns AJ Knight that he’s the official and he puts him in his place. UWL World Champion is back into the corner for seemingly his final warning. Meanwhile Ethan Lucas slides back into the ring and he looks for Trapped but AJ backbody drops him over the ropes sending him crashing to the concrete below!

AJ follows him to the outside and whips Lucas into the guardrail HARD! AJ then slings him into the post and slams his head off the apron! AJ chucks Lucas back into the ring and drills him with a Swinging Neckbreaker and makes a short cover for 1…2…KICKOUT!

AJ's had enough and he’s now looking for Holy Ouch! Lucas ducks the slap! He boots AJ in the gut! AJ keeps his grip so Lucas pulls him into a reverse STO! AJ starts to pull himself up-LIGHTS OUT- NO! AJ COUNTERS WITH A ROARING FOREARM!!! LUCAS IS WOBBLY! AJ SUPERKICKS HIM IN THE GUT!!! KNIGHTFALL DDT! He makes the cover for 1…2…3!

GRAHAM STEVENS: Your winner by pin fall…AJ—KNIGHT!

CHARLES HUDSON:  AJ Knight is guaranteed money when he drops his opponent with his Knightfall DDT.

MCKAYLA LEWIS:  Ethan Lucas is just on a tough break as of late but AJ Knight proves why he’s the World Champion over in UWL.

CHARLES HUDSON:  Now after a violent WarGames and possibly the last of the Franchise and Immortal Atrocities, AJ can pick up where he left off last year and rejoin the World Heavyweight Championship conversation.

MCKAYLA LEWIS:  He never left it in my opinion but he was part of something much larger than a Championship division. He wanted to bring change to Mainstream Wrestling and he did just that. We’ll see if we can get a word from AJ Knight following this commercial break!

---

---

[Robert Daniels]

THE
FRANCHISE

"Born for Greatness" by Papa Roach plays. As the first few verses come to their end, the music pauses for a moment. All of the lights go out again, but then come right back on in full brightness!!!

NO WE'RE NOT NAMELESS
WE'RE NOT FACELESS
WE WERE BORN FOR GREATNESS!!!

Suddenly, UWL World Heavyweight Champion AJ Knight still inside the ring following his match is joined by Legacy Champion Billy Danielson, and Mainstream Hall of Famer Bryan Blaze walk out from behind the curtain. They make their way down to the ring Billy Danielson of them are dressed in nice suit jackets over their “The Franchise” T-Shirts. They make their way up the stairs, with each of them wiping their feet before going up to the apron, and holding the ropes open for their fellow teammates. They call for three microphones and look out to the crowd as they wait.

BILLY DANIELSON: Last Month, the heart and soul of this company was on the line. A literal pack of demons swore they would destroy the very pillars of this company, BUT WE SAID NO!!!
Billy throws his fist in the air and the fans cheer with him, because Mainstream fans will always cheer on those who stand up for the brand.

BILLY DANIELSON: We took the fight to those demons, we took them to war… AND WE WON!!!

More rousing cheers from the fans, as AJ and Bryan hype them up.

BILLY DANIELSON: We left those demons exorcised, protected Julianna’s title reign, and we saved Mainstream from certain destruction. The Immortal Atrocities are dead and disbanded, and now we look on to see what is next for The Franchise.

Billy, Bryan, and AJ look at each other.

BILLY DANIELSON: And sadly… the next thing for us is to say goodbye!

Shock echoes around the ring as Billy looks down, and the other two Franchise members place shoulders on either shoulder of Danielson.

BILLY DANIELSON: Yes, I think James Hetfield said it best… “Sad, but true”. Tonight, we all say goodbye to one of our members, as he suffered another career threatening injury…

Billy looks to Bryan, and now it’s Bryan who hangs his head.

BILLY DANIELSON: Bryan, what more can I say, but Thank You? We’ve been Rivals, Insurgents, Best Friends, Brutal Enemies, and Franchise Players together. You have always pushed me to be my absolute best, even when we were at each other’s throats, and I appreciate you for that. People can call you what they will, but I will only ever call you my brother!!!

With a smile on his face, Bryan embraces Billy with a good bro-hug. The crowd pops for hugs, because it’s a good cheap pop like that, as AJ pulls his microphone to his mouth and Bryan steps away from Billy to give focus to AJ.

AJ KNIGHT: I am proud to be sharing the ring with Bryan Blaze in his final moments here in Mainstream Wrestling. He’s one of the best in Mainstream, and in the sport of wrestling as a whole. Whatever else may be true I know for a fact, I would not be here, Billy would not be here, none of you fans would be here and MAINSTREAM WRESTLING AS A WHOLE! Would not be here! So from the bottom of my heart thank you! Not to mention keeping Billy and I out of trouble on the road constantly, and all of us partying Franchise style all night… Shit man, I’m going to miss it all so much. I knew this was coming, and it still hardly feels real to me. It’s bittersweet to me. But this isn’t a time to mourn, this is a time for celebration! Because unlike so many others, you’re leaving with your health. Not only that, but you get something else that’s so rare. See you’re a lucky man if you can leave this sport with even one true friend. Bryan Blaze, you must be the luckiest damn man alive. You’re leaving with two! Happy retirement brother!

Now it’s time for AJ and Bryan to hug it out. They call Billy over, and it becomes a big ol’ Franchise group hug.

The crowd begins to chant

CROWD: SPEECH!!! SPEECH!!! SPEECH!!!
Bryan stands, center of the ring, with the microphone in hand. He lifts the microphone up near his mouth but is instantly interrupted by the crowd.

“THANK YOU BLAZE!”
“THANK YOU BLAZE!”
“THANK YOU BLAZE!”

Bryan looks out to the crowd, and then again to Billy and AJ, as a tear rolls down his cheek, which he tactfully wipes away.

BRYAN BLAZE: You know…

“THANK YOU BLAZE!”
“THANK YOU BLAZE!”
“THANK YOU BLAZE!”

This time, Bryan laughs at the interruption. He waves the microphone to get the fans to hopefully calm down enough for him to speak.
Bryan Blaze: Like you said Billy...what can I say? First of all, and I guess this may come as a shock to just about everyone in this building, but I want to THANK Robb Daniels.

All three members of The Franchise feign shock, to the delight of the crowd, who briefly cheer.

Bryan Blaze: But seriously, when I returned to active competition back in 2016, I found myself in a little promotion...maybe you’ve heard of it...Universal Wrestling League.

The crowd pops!

BRYAN BLAZE: Yeah, that’s the one. I had a few great memories in my short stint there, but something big happened in my second match in that promotion. I saw this kid across the ring from me and I KNEW this kid was the future, and it was an absolute PLEASURE to beat him. That was, of course, Billy Danielson.

They all laugh.

BRYAN BLAZE: Like you said, Billy. We’ve done it all together. I’ve been the hero. I’ve been the villain, the insurgent. Every step of the way, we managed to be near each other. Whether it was a team or as bitter rivals making each other that much better. We followed each other though three promotions to get to where we are today. And, you know...I was right. You’ve become one of the premier stars, not just of Mainstream, but in all of the wrestling world. And unlike me, you’re far from finished.

He turns to AJ.

BRYAN BLAZE: And AJ Knight. Maybe we don’t have quite the history as Billy and I do, but you are also one of the best wrestlers I’ve had the pleasure of competing with or against. Through The Franchise, you have also become one of the few real ‘friends’ I had in this business and for that I am thankful. Through this run as The Franchise I haven’t been as close to the action as you and Billy, and I’ve seen AJ Knight make his run to the top of Mainstream, and it was a pleasure.
But, as promised, all good things come to an end. I’ve been afforded some out of this world opportunities, especially under the Mainstream Wrestling banner. I don’t regret a thing. When I came back at War Games, I can honestly say it was the biggest moment of my career. It may have been the end of the road...and that’s fine. I have done EVERYTHING I’ve set out to do, and it was a pleasure to do it in front of all of you. Whether you hated me or loved me, it doesn’t matter. Thank you.

CROWD: THANK YOU BRYAN!!! THANK YOU BRYAN!!! THANK YOU BRYAN!!!

The crowd continue to chant for Bryan, as Bryan bows for the fans. He begins to take off the wrestling boots that he had been apparently wearing with his suit, and leaves them nicely in the center of the ring. Bryan takes a step back behind Billy and AJ, as they still seem to have a solemn look on their face. Finally, Billy picks back up and begins to speak.

BILLY DANIELSON: I’m sorry guys… but the bad news doesn’t end there.

Billy and AJ look at each other.

AJ KNIGHT: We haven’t been entirely truthful with all of you…
Half expecting one of the members of The Franchise to turn on another, the fans sit on the edge of their seats, but nothing comes. Just Billy and AJ standing there, looking sad.

BILLY DANIELSON: Originally, this whole thing was planned for us to just say goodbye to our dear friend, as we send him off into retirement and the adventures of being a stay at home dad. However, AJ and I got to thinking… It’s time for The Franchise to go our own ways entirely.

AJ KNIGHT: Look, we did what we set out to do. Robb Daniels isn’t running the show anymore, and we’ve broken the cycle of his favorites just getting shots constantly. We put an end to those freaks in the Immortal Atrocities. We stood tall in one of the greatest matches in the history of Mainstream Wrestling! We succeeded in everything we tried to do. We have changed this company for the better. Really, this is a victory lap! Roll on credits, take a bow, the Franchise has left the building!

Boos? The crowd is not happy that The Franchise is disbanding after a year of dominance. However the boos doesn’t seem malicious, but rather disappointed as everyone’s favorite stable that they love to hate are breaking up.

BILLY DANIELSON: We understand, we really do. However, AJ and I… we’re singles competitors. We are men who truly fight for ourselves, and though we are best friends, we still walk on eggshells EVERYDAY wondering when one of us is going to set the other off. You can’t be in this industry, call yourself better than everyone else, and not step on the toes you admire most in this sport. So we want to end this on our terms with as much civility and as amicable as possible.

AJ KNIGHT: Look, any wrestling fan knows how these things end. Billy and I keep succeeding, until we don’t. Tensions mount, he and I blow up at each other, until one of us sticks the knife in the other man’s back. And when you look at my general history with partnerships breaking up, and Billy’s… I think we ALL know who would be putting the knife in whose back...

Billy sheepishly scratches the back of his head, nodding to acknowledge that he’s probably right.

AJ KNIGHT: So we decided that it would be best for he and I to part ways nicely, and instead of engaging in a self-destructive months-long feud where we shorten our careers and accomplish nothing meaningful… We shake hands and part friends.

Mixed reaction from the crowd, some of whom seem to feel cheated that they’ll never see that blow up.

BILLY DANIELSON: From here on out I am FINALLY going to give the Legacy Championship the attention it deserves. No more Robb Daniels, No more Demons. Just me, carrying on the Legacy of this company the only way I can.

AJ KNIGHT: As for me. I’m going to get that belt back. The World Heavyweight Championship. See I came back here to get that belt back and I won’t rest until I do.

BRYAN BLAZE: And I plan on spending the rest of my days in a recliner, enjoying my home in the greatest country in the world… CANADA!!!

The crowd pops for Bryan including himself in this part of the segment, even if he did just say Canada is the greatest country in the world. The three men side-hug each other as Billy closes with this.

BILLY DANIELSON: I will say this though… no matter what we do… whether it’s building up the Legacy of this company, Seeking new heights in this company, or enjoying a forever vacation… we will ALWAYS be The Franchise and we will ALWAYS be better than all of you… BECAUSE WE ARE

THE FRANCHISE: BORN FOR GREATNESS!!!

“Born For Greatness” plays before the fans can react to how pretentious their final goodbye was, but honestly, even the fans knew that Billy and Co couldn’t stay babyface the entire segment. The three men bow together as the crowd cheers, and they walk off, leaving Bryan’s boots in the ring as they leave.

[Robert Daniels]

BACKSTAGE...
Through the backstage doors that lead to the parking garage enters Thaddeus. Former hired muscle for Biggs and currently employee of Jason Cashe. Although Thaddeus hasn't been seen in a few shows, he seems to be in good spirits as he carries with his a big smile. As the door closes behind him and he strolls down the hallway, the voice of Jason Cashe calls out to him.

JASON CASHE: Ayyeeeyoooo! Hoodie Hooo! Caw-Caaaah! Caaw-Caaah!

A DiOGee making bird sounds. Only in Mainstream! Thaddeus didn't need all the extra sounds and calls, he recognized the voice in his Ayyyeeyoo but this was Cashe. Still the smile on Thad's face wasn't shed any at all.

JASON CASHE: Where the hell-O have you been?

THADDEUS: Vacation.

JASON CASHE: Vacation?

THADDEUS: Yeah! Vacation! You told me to go take some vacation time.. You paid for it!

JASON CASHE: I did?

THADDEUS: Yes.. After you and Josslynn broke up? I said let's celebrate and you said that I should go celebrate for the both of us.. That I should go to Cabo San Lucas. It was beautiful!

Cashe doesn't seem to remember this conversation taking place.

JASON CASHE: Hmm.. And you're saying I paid for it? The whole trip?

THADDEUS: Yes! After that Granny from a few weeks ago. I thought she was flirting with you, remember? That same day!

Finally the shocking realization filled Cashe's face as the memory of it came back to him.

JASON CASHE: Ohh! Okay, yeah, I remember that old bat! I tried to find her later that night.. You know, to give her a piece of my mind!

THADDEUS: I'm not surprised you couldn't find her.. She was with me.

JASON CASHE: Whaaaa?! Ohh, I'm going to need those details!! Tell me while I get ready for my match.. Come on!

Almost initially dragging Thaddeus by his arm, Cashe guided the two of them down the hall and around a corner before cameras cut off.

[Robert Daniels]

SINGLES MATCH

★★★ JACK GIBSON ★★★
vs
★★★ LUCHAVILLAIN ★★★

The bell rings and the match is underway as LuchaVillain and Jack Gibson circle the ring. Lucha rushes across the ring, launching himself into the ropes and springboards off into air. Lucha catches Gibson’s arm and tosses him across the mat with an arm drag. It’s effective taking Gibson down and Lucha comes up to a knee with his elbow pressed into Jack’s neck. Gibson is able to get back to his feet with well placed elbows to Lucha’s midsection breaking the hold.

The momentum changes as Jack Gibson whips Lucha across the ring into the turnbukles. He follows this up with a forearm to the side of Lucha’s head and then several knife edge chops. LuchaVillain’s chest begins to whelp and turn a dark shade of crimson and purple. Gibson’s arrogance begins to show as he steps back arrogantly and smirks. This is taken as an insult to Lucha and he comes out of the corner looking for a fight. Jack responds by following up with more kife edge chops backing into the corner once more. He then grabs Lucha by the back of the head and with a fluid motion jumps placing his feet into the midsection of Lucha and flipping him with a moneky wrench.

Jack Gibson drops several elbows onto Lucha and on the last one he grabs Lucha’s leg and turns him for a single leg Boston Crab. The referee gets into place to check on the masked man but he has a fist formed and is reaching back trying to hit Gibson from behind. He places his leg behind Gibson’s knee and pushes with everything that he has and he’s finally able to slowly push himself towards the ropes. This forces the referee to call for the break from Gibson.

Lucha and Gibson are on the opposite sides of the ring and again Lucha rushes towards Gibson. He leaps into the air looking for a high risk move but Gibson catches him midair across his shoulders. Gibson drops Lucha with a Samoan Drop and is quick to look for a pin attempt for 1…2…KICKOUT! Lucha is able to get his shoulder off the canvas in the nick of time. Gibson gets to his feet physically frustrated which gives LucaVillain a moment to compose himself and gain the momentum. He reaches his arm around Gibson’s neck and falls back with an illegal chock hold. The referee is quick to begin his official five count.

…1!
…2!
…3!
…4!

LuchaVillain releases the hold. Jack Gibson lifts LuchaVillain up and grabs him by the wrist and shoves him back first against the ropes looking for a weekness. LuchaVillain is shot into the ropes, Gibson looking for a leapfrog on the return. Lucha has it reversed grabbing a leg and pulling him down onto the mat. Springing to his feet, Raijin leaps onto the top turnbuckle and dives to deliver an elbow on the fallen Gibson. Jack raises his knees and Lucha lands hard and awkwardly grasping his ribs.

Gibson is on his feet and he’s motioning for LuchaVillain to get back onto his feet. He sarcastically waves for Raijin to get to his feet as he circles around him. Getting to his feet Lucha is forced to tie up with Gibson as he pushes himself to his feet. Lucha knees Jack in the midsection and is quick to grab his head and hit an Even Flow DDT buying him some time. He backs away and as Jack Gibson begins getting to his feet. Slaughterhouse!!! Lucha nails his pattened finish and covers Gibson as the referee begins his count of 1…2…3!

GRAHAM STEVENS: Your winner by pin fall is…LUCHA—VILLAIN!

CHARLES HUDSON:  Lucha! Lucha! Lucha!

MCKAYLA LEWIS:  LuchaVillain is in the win column here tonight and might I say rather impressive fashion!

CHARLES HUDSON:  I remember hearing rumblings of a villainous lucha libre performer from my time in Mexico but I never dreamed our paths would eventually cross.

MCKAYLA LEWIS:  LuchaVillain with a statement win here tonight! If he keeps this up he’ll be rising up the ranks in no time!

---

---

[Robert Daniels]

EARLIER TONIGHT...
Tara was just walking in from the parking garage with her duffel bag slung over her shoulder; she seemed brighter, happier, than even Mainstream was used to seeing. Her lip had curled into a sly smirk but she was dressed more unconventionally… a lot of her usual attire for outside of the ring, but she was wearing a blue unicorn hoodie that seemed to get a few stares from the staff; she paid them no mind. The slow stroll through the hallway en route to the locker room was rather uneventful, but as she neared it, she was finally interrupted by interviewer Samantha Kinsley.

SAMANTHA KINSLEY: Hey, Tara! First of all, I have to say--

Samantha’s eyes seem to scan Tara’s attire, particularly the blue unicorn hoodie, and the approval is written on her face as clear as day.

SAMANTHA KINSLEY: I’m digging that hoodie.

TARA FENIX: Well, first, yes. I do have some time to answer a couple questions regarding my match tonight. Secondly: thank you! I appreciate that.

SAMANTHA KINSLEY: Tonight, we are going to have a rematch between you and Trixie. The rematch from Emerald City Classic! She eliminated you in the very first round… is there any part of you that resents her for defeating you?

Tara could not keep herself from releasing a short chuckle after the question, and she gave a slight shrug of her shoulder. She fixed her duffel bag on her shoulder. Her gaze was focused on the camera rather than Samantha, but she gave the reply.

TARA FENIX: There is a lot of resentment that I hold for Trixie. There is absolutely no denying that! When I agreed to come to Mainstream to participate in the Emerald City Classic, I truly had nothing in mind as far as staying -- what I had in mind was that I was going to showcase my ability to the world, and put the world on notice that the baddest bitch in the industry had returned, and I was going to reclaim EVERYTHING that I gave up when I retired. I was going to RESUME my position as the greatest, the greatest, to ever step foot in the ring.

Tara shook her head.

TARA FENIX: Trixie… stopped that. It wasn’t exactly what I expected, it wasn’t what I had planned, but that’s something that I’m used to and something that I don’t have a problem doing, at times; changing plans. Things don’t always go as planned, which means that we have to be able to adapt. Change. Overcome. This has been something that I’ve done throughout my career, and something that I am always going to do, because that’s how you reach the top of the mountain, and that’s how you stay at the top of the mountain! Although I said that I wasn’t going to, there’s no mistaking what happened on that fateful night… I did… I underestimated Trixie. I did not think there was a chance that I was going to lose, much less in the first round, but that’s not a mistake that I’m going to make twice.

There was a brief hesitation whilst Tara considered her next words momentarily.

TARA FENIX: The plan was to come to Mainstream, win Emerald City Classic that way I put everybody on notice… put the business, the industry, on notice. But that loss, it left something-- it left a bad taste in my mouth, and that’s why I decided that I was going to sign with Mainstream long-term. I could not let Mainstream think of me as a washed up has-been! So yeah, there is a part of me that resents Trixie for her victory over me, but truth be told…

Tara shrugged her shoulders again.

TARA FENIX: She earned it.

She said with a nod.

SAMANTHA KINSLEY: When you first arrived on the scene, you were intimidating, but we are seeing you in a different light here… may I ask what brought that change?

TARA FENIX: It is--

Tara shook her head, deciding best not to answer too many questions in that regard.

TARA FENIX: --a bit personal, and I would rather not touch on those subjects. Let me just say that I am here to do business! I am here to do what I still do better than anybody else, because nothing has changed… whether my personality shows this disgruntled, hurt, damaged individual, or whether I’m letting my problems slide right off, there’s nothing! NOTHING! That has changed about me in the regard that I am still the best person to step into the ring. No one has been able to do it like me, there is no one that will do it like me. I’m one of a kind.

As those words escaped, her lips curled more into a grin. The confidence, or cocky behavior, whatever you wanted to call it, illuminated from her.

TARA FENIX: The last time that Trixie and I stepped into the ring, I gave her some sort of… respect… I shook her hand. It seemed like the right thing to do, but I think what it did was it took an edge out of me. When I go to the ring, Trixie, do not be looking for that handshake; do not be looking for that mercy. Do not be looking for that “nice” Tara that you saw on my first week here. The moment the bell sounds, the Tara that I’ve said would be here, will be here! The Tara that, the moment the bell sounds, becomes something else. The Tara that does not know quit! The Tara that does not know mercy! Because that ring--

Tara points in the general direction where she knows the ring is.

TARA FENIX: --it’s mine. And so long as you are trying to battle me for it, I will hurt you. I will break you. Because nobody is going to take that ring from me! I gave you all a warning when I first arrived. I said… kneel… that offer stands, alright? Yield, Trixie. I can’t imagine you would after what happened last time, but tonight… I’m going to show you why you should.

She says with a final nod, as she takes a step into the locker room.

TARA FENIX: I need to get ready.

[Robert Daniels]

SINGLES MATCH

★★★ TARA FENIX ★★★
vs
★★★ TRIXIE ★★★

The bell rings and this Emerald City Classic First Round rematch is officially underway! Both Tara Fenix and Trixie charge toward the middle of the ring and clinch with both now battling for power over the other; Trixie seems to be gaining the edge when Tara takes her down with a scissor leg sweep, and Tara quickly tries to apply an ankle lock but Trixie rolls forward sending Tara toward the ropes; Tara wraps her arms under the rope to prevent herself from going backward, and Trixie stands up, just as Tara springs to the second rope and comes back with a backflip, catching Trixie as she lands, and dropping her with a reverse DDT and a hook of the leg by Tara for 1…2…KICKOUT!

Tara Fenix smiles and pushes herself up off one knee. She grabs Trixie and begins lifting her up off the mat as she’s caught with an overhand chop from Trixie sending her staggering back against the ropes, creating some space between both competitors. Trixie charges in and Tara kicks her legs up to catch Trixie around the head with her legs; Trixie battles back to try to pull a reversal on Tara in this position but Tara has it applied, and is trying to use her hands on the top rope to pull herself toward the corner, but Trixie resists and tries to pull Tara from the ropes.

Tara manages to shift her weight back and sail Trixie over the top rope with a hurricanrana! Tara lands on her knees on the apron but uses the top rope to quickly pull herself up, as Trixie is already stirring; as soon as Trixie is to her feet, Tara springs off the second rope, and comes back with a diving crossbody that connects!

Fenix rolls over to a kneeling position as Trixie lying near the ropes looks up at her with disgust on her face. The two women circle the center of the ring, and Trixie goes forward to attempt a grapple; Tara steps to the side and delivers a swift kick to her leg! Tara follows up with three more quick kicks that cause Trixie’s knee to buckle. Tara rushes against the ropes behind Trixie as she is standing and connects with a chop block to the back of the knee. Tara stands up and immediately delivers a stomp to that same knee. She grabs Trixie’s leg and holds it out before delivering a stomp to the mat that was intended for her inner calf! Trixie rolls out of harms way and rolls to her feet.

Trixie has Tara in a belly-to-back position, and Tara reaches her arm back as Trixie is charging them toward the corner; Tara is looking to reverse with the Siren, but Trixie is too quick and shoves all of her weight into Tara and makes an attempt to roll Tara up, but Tara hooks her arms under the ropes and Trixie rolls by herself. Trixie is to her feet, and Tara fires for a Genocide Kick! Trixie manages to dodge the kick, and both competitors try to regain their footing; as they face each other, Tara connects with the Fallen Phoenix! She hooks the leg for 1…2…BREAK!

Trixie lifts her foot onto the bottom rope just in the nick of time! Moment slater Trixie is back on her feet and staggers towards Tara and goes for a wild overhand punch, but Tara catches her with a Manhattan Drop then quickly takes her down with a simple double-handed leg trip; Tara holding Trixie’s leg delivers a stomp to her calf, and then to her knee, and finally scissors her leg with her own before dropping with a knee drop against her leg giving it a twist. Trixie sits up holding her leg as Tara is already up with a spring in her step, as she rebounds off the ropes and comes back to connect with a shining wizard!

Trixie stumbles backwards catching herself in the ropes refusing to go down. Tara is throwing a couple overhand punches against Trixie as she battles her against the ropes. Trixie shoves her off and charges at her to attempt a clothesline; Tara ducks just in the nick of time, and Trixie keeps the momentum going forward to the opposite ropes. Tara turns to see Trixie coming toward her again and does a leapfrog over Trixie. Trixie continues off the ropes again, and Tara fires for the Genocide Kick on the rebound! Trixie avoids it, and attempts to roll Tara into a schoolboy cover but Tara rolls through. Trixie is on her knees when Tara is already to her feet, and she fires for a seated Genocide Kick but Trixie evades harms way once more!

Trixie has the edge over Tara and has her against the ropes when she is grabbing her arm for an Irish-whip, but Tara fights back with a swift kick to the leg she’s been working on causing her knee to buckle again. Trixie regains her footing rather quickly, but a slight limp, she still sends Tara off with an Irish-whip; the limp is more noticeable as Trixie goes toward the center of the ring and aims for a clothesline but Tara ducks under it, stopping on a dime right behind Trixie, waiting for her to turn around and as she does: FALLEN PHOENIX!

Tara is up and grabs one of Trixie’s legs as she is getting up and wastes no time getting the PHOENIX LOCK locked in! Trixie squirms and grunts as she tries to escape, but Tara has her in the center of the ring, and as Tara applies more and more pressure until Trixie has no choice but to tap out!

GRAHAM STEVENS: Your winner by submission is…TARA—FENIX!

CHARLES HUDSON:  An eye for an eye Lou!

MCKAYLA LEWIS:  You’re right Charles! Tara Fenix evens up the score with her victory here tonight!

CHARLES HUDSON:  Trixie is a legendary tag team performer here in Mainstream Wrestling but she too is poised for a breakout run in singles competition.

MCKAYLA LEWIS:  Tara Fenix, congratulations on a monumental win. I am sure she’ll build on this victory here tonight!

---

---

[Robert Daniels]

BACKSTAGE...
Blake O'Reilly is seen standing outside of Kevin Bombay's office as he paces back and forth before cracking his neck and opens the door without knocking much to the surprise of Bombay.[/i]

BLAKE O’REILLY: Mr. Bombay sir. Blake O'Reilly, I'm sure the pleasure is yours but uh I was hoping to have a conversation with you... ya see... I've noticed many of my fellow Emerald City Squires have received contracts to be a part of the Mainstream Roster... and clearly mine was left in the mail... surely you know the value I bring... I beat you're former US/TV Champ Bryan Ford... and my second ever match was against your current US Champ in amazing effort if I may add. So forgive me for being confused as to why I'm not an official member of the roster yet?

He raises and eyebrow and leans against the boss man's desk.

[Robert Daniels]

The warehouse is better lit this time. A crew of workers is sweeping, painting, and hauling in boxes. On a catwalk, above it all, is a stoic Charlene Tilton-Everson. Behind her stands, gazing down at the floor, is James Edwards.

CHARLENE TILTON-EVERSON: The last fight didn’t go James’ way.

She turns and looks at The Burning Heart as he stares intently at the workers on the warehouse floor.

CHARLENE TILTON-EVERSON: He promised to bring the Kingdom of Violence to MAINSTREAM Wrestling, not get thrown around by a man in a demon mask. He knows he took the fight lightly. It’s why he got his ass kicked.

Edwards doesn’t wince at the memory. He keeps staring.

CHARLENE TILTON-EVERSON: If he’s learned anything in his career, it’s the very best are the most humble. When you dishonor your opponent you dishonor the ring. When you dishonor the ring you cease to be a fighter; you become a performer. We all know the man behind me is no actor. James Edwards is a fighter.

She offers a small smile.

CHARLENE TILTON-EVERSON: He’s a fighter that knows to get back to the top you have to go back to the humblest place of them all, the bottom. James’ request is simple, he wants a fight at the next show and he wants to open that very show. He wishes to work his back up the mountain. It’s his penance for his hubris. Only through hardship can he atone and become the man who will usher in the Kingdom.

[Robert Daniels]

SINGLES MATCH

★★★ KALIDAH ★★★
vs
★★★ DIMITRI PIERCE ★★★

The bell rings and Kalidah just stands there, head cocked to the side. He raises a finger at Pierce and roars. Pierce backs away and steps towards the ropes. Lotte reaches out and grabs him by the ankle. He looks down at her and yells at her to let go, but it's all a distraction. Kalidah rushes forward and spears him hard, right into the bottom turnbuckle and starts waylaying him with a series of forearm shot before blatantly beginning to choke him. The referee steps in to warn him to stop and begins counting leading to Kalidah leaping to his feet and chases him out of the ring.

Kalidah turns back to Pierce and pulls him to his feet. Wrapping his arms around his waist, the Beast of Hotel California sends Pierce across the ring with a belly-to-belly suplex. He rolls on to his chest and crawls over to where Pierce is lying in agony. Kalidah start whispering to him in an unknown tongue. Pierce shakes his head. This only makes Kalidah laugh and he starts headbutting Pierce repeatedly. He gets to his feet, drags Pierce up and delivers another belly-to-belly suplex. From the floor, Lotte applauds and calls for one more. Never one to deny his dark mistress, Kalidah pulls Pierce up and wraps his arms around him. He pulls Pierce close to the ropes and without even looking over his shoulder, tosses Pierce clear over the top rope and to the arena floor below.

Kalidah slides out of the ring and pulls Pierce to his feet. Once again he whispers something to his opponent. In response Pierce slaps him across the face. Kalidah lets out roar, lifts Pierce by the throat with both hands and slams him hard against the ring post. Kalidah keeps hold of Pierce and roars again in his face before launching him overhead by his throat with another suplex on to the entrance ramp. Lotte applauds this brutality and points to the barricade at ringside. Kalidah nods towards her and goes over to pick up Pierce. Almost effortlessly, Kalidah presses Pierce over his head and with a running start, tosses his opponent over the ring barricade and into the second row of fans. He roars one more time before walking back to the ring and siding in.

As Kalidah begins pacing around the ring, Lotte points to the referee and tells him to count. Kalidah doesn't seem satisfied waiting though. He climbs to the top rope and stares down towards the crowd. The referee tells him to get down but Kalidah ignores him. We waits until Pierce gets to his feet and leaps into the crowd, landing hard on his opponent. He drags Pierce to his feet and lifting him over his head one more time, throws him back over the barricade. Kalidah hops over the barricade himself, tosses Pierce into the ring and slides back in the ring. He stands over Pierce's body, places a foot on his chest and yells for the referee to make the count of 1...2...KICKOUT!

Pierce barely kicks out before the three. Kalidah reaches down and grabs Piece around the waist. He dead-lifts him to his feet and hits a German suplex. Kalidah maintains his grip around Pierce's waist, rolls to his feet and hits a second German suplex. Again, he rolls to his feet and hits a third suplex without releasing his grip. Kalidah refuses to stop, he hits a fourth, then a fifth. The crowd starts counting along as Kalidah continues hitting rolling German suplexes. Six. Seven. Eight. Nine. Kalidah lifts Pierce one last time and hits a tenth German suplex, but releases his grip and send Pierce crashing hard to the mat.

As Kalidah rises to his feet, the crowd starts chanting his name and he roars in response. Lotte gets up on the apron and sings out, "Finish him!" Kalidah turns and pulls Pierce to his feet. He grips Pierce by the back of the head and slides a thumb across his throat before lifting his former minion on his shoulder in a Canadian backbreaker and hitting The Sacrifice. This doesn't seem to be good enough for him forever. He pulls Pierce back to his feet one more time. Lotte hops back up on the apron to distract him as Kalidah spits red mist into Pierce's face before lifting him up on his shoulder one more time and hitting a second Sacrifice. He covers him one last time for 1...2...3!

GRAHAM STEVENS: Your winner by pin fall is…KALIDAH!

CHARLES HUDSON:  Kalidah still to this day scares the s*** out of me!

MCKAYLA LEWIS:  You just have to think about the man we all know under the mask. Think—Eli Buchanan. Just say it over and over.

CHARLES HUDSON:  I’m sorry I just can’t do it. He all but murdered that poor man tonight. As a matter of fact how much longer until the coroner shows up?

MCKAYLA LEWIS:  Kalidah rises form the ashes of the Immortal Atrocities! When we return we’ll check in with the DiOGee of Mainstream Wrestling and see how he’s prepared for his match later with Mariano Fernandez!

---

---

[Robert Daniels]

BACKSTAGE...
JASON CASHE: So she went to Cabo with you?

Shoving his foot into his wrestling boot, Cashe worked the laces. His eyes on Thaddeus who was leaned against the wall near the locker room door.

THADDEUS: Yes she did! She is a wild one! You think at 68 years old, she'd be a little less mobile but boooy! Flexable!

JASON CASHE: That's terrible! Tell me more..

THADDEUS: Put it this way.. Raise your hand if you've had sex while sky diving..

Only Thaddeus raised his hand as Cashe's jaw damn near hit the floor. Also at this time, Chris Madison walks into the locker room. Hearing the information being shared, he turns and leaves the locker room, shutting the door behind him.

JASON CASHE: You freaky Granny Loving Son of a Bitch!

THADDEUS: It was.. Deeply spiritual…

JASON CASHE: I think I speak for everyone watching in saying that we are all a little more damaged now thanks to your confession.. Appreciate that. Truly!

THADDEUS: Well I am back regardless and focused on the task at hand! Whatever you need, I got you!

Stepping down, Cashe bounces in place now with both boots on. He was fully dressed down in his ring attire and the match with Manny was upcoming.

JASON CASHE: Go chase down Madison. First, apologize to him for ruining his day. Then tell him I need to talk to him. Game planning..

THADDEUS: Sorry for something so beautiful? The words will be spoken but not meant!

With Thaddeus gone and Cashe all alone with the Mainstream Camera, he felt the need to address his opponent. A man he could call friend.

JASON CASHE: Manny! Manny, Manny, Manny… I admire you in many ways. Gifted in the ring, successful inside any ring that I have seen you in.. And that hair! Ohh boy, that hair! We have had our time in the spotlight. We have fought and traded a few wins and losses. Me taking more Ls than I would tell a casual fan but in retrospect, the better man won more times than not. In what few there are in this business, you are someone I would shake hands with before and after a fight. You are someone I could fight with, for and because of and I'd like to think you share that same respect for me.

Pulling his US Tag Team Title off the bench behind him, Cashe wraps it around his waist and works the clamps to lock it secure.

JASON CASHE: Tonight isn't for a prize. There isn't a story behind why we will step in the ring. No old rivalry, no bitterness between us. Manny, tonight we will compete against each other not for accolades but for the pure sport of it! For the respect that we have gained between us, for each other THROUGH the battles we have fought and scars and burnt bridges we have seen the other survive through. Tonight won't be fun but it won't be dreadful either because I'm not here for the spotlight, I'm not here for the Main Events! The trophies are nice but they come secondary to matches like this because HERE? We will fight to tear the roof off this building!

Just as the locker room door opens and Chris Madison strolls in, Cashe gives one last word to his opponent.

JASON CASHE: Manny, I will meet you at the center of the ring..

Moving towards Madison, the two shakes hands and begin having a discussion as the camera cuts away.

[Robert Daniels]

BACKSTAGE...
The warehouse is better lit this time. A crew of workers is sweeping, painting, and hauling in boxes. On a catwalk, above it all, is a stoic Charlene Tilton-Everson. Behind her stands, gazing down at the floor, is James Edwards.

CHARLENE TILTON-EVERSON: The last fight didn’t go James’ way.

She turns and looks at The Burning Heart as he stares intently at the workers on the warehouse floor.

CHARLENE TILTON-EVERSON: He promised to bring the Kingdom of Violence to MAINSTREAM Wrestling, not get thrown around by a man in a demon mask. He knows he took the fight lightly. It’s why he got his ass kicked.

Edwards doesn’t wince at the memory. He keeps staring.

CHARLENE TILTON-EVERSON: If he’s learned anything in his career, it’s the very best are the most humble. When you dishonor your opponent you dishonor the ring. When you dishonor the ring you cease to be a fighter; you become a performer. We all know the man behind me is no actor. James Edwards is a fighter.

She offers a small smile.

CHARLENE TILTON-EVERSON: He’s a fighter that knows to get back to the top you have to go back to the humblest place of them all, the bottom. James’ request is simple, he wants a fight at the next show and he wants to open that very show. He wishes to work his back up the mountain. It’s his penance for his hubris. Only through hardship can he atone and become the man who will usher in the Kingdom.

[Robert Daniels]

SINGLES MATCH

★★★ JC KEETON ★★★
vs
★★★ NATE DAVIES ★★★

The bell rings and JC Keeton ruhes out of the corner and shoots a Double Leg Takedown. He scoops Nate Davies up and slams him, landing in side control. JC starts reigning down elbow strikes until Davies is able to throw a foot over the bottom rope causing the ref to force the break. Both men rise to their feet and JC nails him with a hip toss but Nate is quickly back to his feet.

A perfect Drop Kick takes Davies off his feet and he lies on the mat while Keeton leans in the corner before charging forward hitting a Basement Yakuza Kick as Davies sits up. Keeton goes to the top rope and points out to the crowd who cheers him on before leaping with the highest Frog Splash in the business. Keeton makes the cover for 1…2…KICKOUT!

JC Keeton is back to his feet first and he pulls his opponent back up to his feet. Wraps an arm around Davies and snatches him into a Saito Suplex, he holds on and rolls into another one, then another, and another, and another and then one final one before dropping him and holding up 6 fingers to a pop. JC covers 1...2...KICKOUT!

As soon as Davies kicks out JC stands and starts stomping him from head to toe before trapping the arms and stomping his face until Nate is able to free his arms and grab the bottom rope.

Moments later following a wild punch from Davies takes JC off his feet, Keeton is quickly back up and hits a Shotgun Dropkick sending him into the corner. He lifts him up so that he's sitting on the turnbuckle and he steps back and hits a Leaping European Uppercut. Davies lands hard on the apron and Keeton goes out and helps him to his feet before hitting a Jumping Double Footstomp to the chest of Nate Davies on the apron.

Davies rolls in pain from the ring apron down to the floor but a relentless JC Keeton drops down and rolls his opponent back into the ring. He then proceeds to lift hun with a violent series of suplexes then stands over Davies. As soon as Davies starts to get up JC blasts him with a Jumping Knee Strike right on the button. Davies slowly gets to his feet staggering and Keeton steps behind him dropping him on his head with a Poisoned Frankensteiner. He hooks the leg 1...2...KICKOUT!

JC Keeton lifts Nate Davies up and he pushes him back against the ropes and Irish whips him to the other side of the ring. Davies comes off solid from the adjacent ropes looking for a clothesline but JC ducks a clothesline and hits a Drop Kick. he's quickly back to his feet and hits a Half and Half Suplex. Keeton stalks and waits for Nate to stand and cracks him with a Spinning Uppercut. Davies staggers but before he falls JC leaps up and catches him with his Leaping Leg Lariat called Ode to the Outlaw. Davies is out, Keeton drops down hooking the leg and the referee counts 1...2...3!

GRAHAM STEVENS: Your winner by pin fall is…JC—KEETON!

CHARLES HUDSON:  Nate Davies a graduate of Emerald City Squires with a lot of potential but he ran into JC Keeton whose putting the pieces back together after a devastating loss in the finals of the Emerald City Classic.

MCKAYLA LEWIS:  I couldn’t have said it better myself. JC Keeton is determined to prove his performance from the Classic wasn’t simply a fluke.

CHARLES HUDSON:  He’s no fluke. He’s the real deal. He went through not one, not two but three men in one night.

MCKAYLA LEWIS:  I can’t wait to hear what he has to say. Hopefully we can get a word either tonight or maybe our social media correspondent later tonight.

---

---

[Robert Daniels]

EARLIER TONIGHT...
This time, DA #TROLL GUY Mariano Fernandez is to be found in the parking lot, pacing around pensively and with a thoughtless air. He hasn’t yet changed into his wrestling gear, still wearing his black leather jacket and faded blue jeans. He notices the camera, however, and he lets out a small smile - even if there is a serious expression in his eyes. When he begins speaking, however, his voice is serene.

MARIANO FERNANDEZ: I seem to remember a confrontation we had with Jason Cashe around here, shortly after I had lost the Emerald City Classic last year. A long time ago - in fact, one could say an eternity now, mang. But I remember, and that is enough.

The slightest shade of a frown crosses his face.

MARIANO FERNANDEZ: And yes, I remember Cashe might have eventually goaded me, but he was friendly at first, and the fault of that confrontation rests squarely on my shoulders, as do many other things. This one, however, I can fix tonight.

A spark lights up in DA #TROLL GUY’s eyes.

MARIANO FERNANDEZ: Because, as hated as he may be, as difficult and as impossibly annoying as Jason Cashe may be, Jason Cashe has always been my friend.

Mariano nods, looking at the camera as he would stare at another person square in the eye.

MARIANO FERNANDEZ: My match for the World Heavyweight Title is fast approaching now. It’s not going to be much longer, and who knows - it might be that the year-long path I have travelled up to here might be for nothing. I may lose to Julianna DiMaria again, and this story may be another case of “almost, but not quite”. But that’s a problem for when the time comes, mang. I’ve walked this path to fix several things - such as my defeat last year. Such as walking out of matches at this exact time. It was a low, mang. One like I never felt before, one like I will never feel again. The memories remain, and they cannot be undone. But I can fix some things I did, and this is one of them.

Mariano clasps both hands together, interlocking his fingers.

MARIANO FERNANDEZ: So, Cashe - win or lose, this is something I need to do. And since I know you, I have known that you’re not a guy for words, but of deeds. Someone like you, in the end, can only understand what happens inside that ring, and so I’m going to make my message within those four sides.

Mariano nods at the camera, the smile now gone, and his face all business.

MARIANO FERNANDEZ: It’s been an honor, Cashe. It always has been. Let this be my apology.

He begins to walk away in the direction of the locker room, not without turning to the camera one final time, for one single sentence.

MARIANO FERNANDEZ: Good luck, mang.

That said, Mariano disappears behind the locker room entrance, as the feed cuts back to the ring.

[Robert Daniels]

BACKSTAGE...
The scene cuts to Julianna DiMaria, who is obviously in a pleasant mood after defeating Skye Healy to retain her MAINSTREAM World Championship. She has the title around her waist and she’s thinking through some things. She knows she’s come a long way and she’s definitely taking pride in that. She’s showing no signs of wavering in her confidence at all as she begins to express her thoughts.

JULIANNA DIMARIA: As I figured I would all along, I have retained my championship against Skye Healy. Look, I have to give her some credit even if there’s a part of me that really can’t stand the idea. She fought hard out there. Skye’s talent has never been the question for me. At the end of the day, what truly held her back was her sense of entitlement and her general attitude about the business. Granted, even if those things were in order, there’s no guarantee that the outcome would’ve changed to begin with. What’s funny is that when I tweeted “start crying, Skye” I didn’t think she’d take that literally. It’s quite a shame to see her reacting the way that she has ever since then, calling herself a failure among other things. But, that’s her. I’ve long outgrown the M.O. of being a victim in this business and for her sake, I hope she does the same. Still, what that match illustrated most of all is that I truly am on top of my game. Every single time I have a match here, I’m defending this title. For most champions, that’s a tough gauntlet to run through and they would’ve lost the title long before this point in my reign. But that’s the thing: most champions aren’t me!

Julianna pauses, maintaining her confidence as usual.

JULIANNA DIMARIA: I have not only been the workhorse of this company, but I’ve definitely been the crown jewel of MAINSTREAM Wrestling as well up to this point in the year. I beat the ONE man who defines this company more than anyone else in Hammerstein to even win the championship in the first place and since then? I’ve defended the title against a who’s who of some of the best this company has to offer. I haven’t racked up title defenses against Squires or wrestlers that aren’t even close to being ready for this. The people I’ve been beating? Eli. AJ. Billy. Coral. Skye. Hell, I even took this title into WarGames with the odds stacked against me, knowing that the likelihood of losing this title was incredibly high especially when you had the “Jimmy factor” in there and I STILL retained the championship. Mariano, I know that you’ve improved since our last encounter. Winning the Emerald Classic is no small feat and in a way, coming from someone who finished second last year, I sort of envy you for that. But think about who you’re going up against.

“This isn’t the Julianna DiMaria that early in her career, acted like an entitled, spoiled brat who thinks the world should revolve around her and who would stir up a bunch of nonsense on social media.”

“This isn’t the Julianna DiMaria that would be laughed at and looked as a joke. You’re not facing the Julianna who fell to the darkness and suddenly became a clown, parody version of herself.”

“Heck, you’re not even facing the Julianna DiMaria that you faced last year, you know, the woman that had taken this company by storm as the United States Champion but who had struggled to take the next step up for a while. It’s funny, because I remember there was one match late last year that started everything. There was that one match that was the beginning of the end of that. Do you remember who that match was against? A match that I won, and thus began to REALLY learn how to get over the hump and to take that next step up?”

“It was YOU, Mariano! YOU were that match. When I beat you in our last encounter, that’s what started this rise for me. Sure, maybe I got overconfident in my next match and had an unfortunate stumble, but right after that? That’s when I achieved the biggest moment of my career up to that point in the Pinnacle battle royal and since then, Mariano, I’ve become THE PINNACLE of this company. I’ve long proven that I’m no fly by night champion. You really DO need to think about EXACTLY who you’re facing because deep down in my soul, I know that more than anything, this entire year I’ve not only evolved into perhaps the best wrestler on this roster, but perhaps one of the best wrestlers in the world!”

“Can you dethrone the crown jewel, Mariano? Can you overcome the pinnacle that’s coming for you? We won’t have to wait too long to find out!”

Julianna confidently walks off the scene. After her departure, the scene fades out.

[Robert Daniels]

SINGLES MATCH

★★★ JASON CASHE ★★★
vs
★★★ MARIANO FERNANDEZ ★★★

The bell rings and the match is underway! Mariano walks with a limp to the center of the ring, and Cashe laughs, but is quick to deliver a bell clap! DA #TROLL GUY is staggered and Cashe moves in! He lands a Snap Suplex and floats over into a pin, but Mariano Fernandez kicks out at one! The DiOGee wants to go for a stomp to Mariano’s chest - NO! Mariano rolls away and Cashe breaks into a sprint to catch him… MARIANO WITH A ROLLING KOPPU KICK AND JASON CASHE IS STOPPED DEAD IN HIS TRACKS! Mariano with the cover for 1…2…KICKOUT!

Mariano wants to keep the initiative, and so decides to go to the ground. He wants to go for a triangle choke on Cashe, but as soon as he gets down, Cashe pokes his eyes! DA #TROLL GUY is dazed and staggers away to rub his eyes, and Cashe seizes the opportunity he has created. He gives Mariano a noogie and catches him in a side headlock! Cashe goes for a headlock takedown and delivers a series of headbutts to the Emerald City Classic winner’s face! Mariano is laid out on the mat and Cashe lands a leg drop! Cover by the DiOGee for 1…2…KICKOUT!

Cashe isn’t about to let go! He screams a “RRRRRRRAAAAAAAAAH LIGHT THAT SH*T UP!!!” to the crowd’s mixed reaction, then prepares to strike as Mariano makes it to his hands and knees. Cashe charges forward for the Big Boot - NO! MARIANO FERNANDEZ HAS CAUGHT CASHE’S LEGS AND SENDS HIM TO THE MAT IN A DRAGON SCREW! A visible crimson mask on his face now thanks to Cashe’s headbutts, Mariano lets out a roar akin to that of a Super Saiyan! The crows pops huge at DA #TROLL GUY, and Jason Cashe makes it back to his feet to be greeted by a Yakuza Kick that sends him flipping over to the mat one more time! Mariano goes for the cover for 1…2…NEARFALL!

But the former World Television Champion gets a shoulder up at the last second! Mariano isn’t done yet! He takes off running one more time and heads for the ropes. He leaps and rebounds in a Springboard Lionsault - BUT CASHE HAS PUT HIS KNEES UP! Mariano’s momentum is stopped dead in his tracks and Cashe makes it back to his feet one more time. He forces Mariano to his feet, slaps him on the chest with an open palm, then lands a HUGE knee to DA #TROLL GUY’s face! Mariano Fernandez drops like a bad habit and Cashe goes for the cover for 1…2…KICKOUT!

Cashe decides to take to the air! As Mariano groggily begins to stand, Cashe heads for the turnbuckle. Mariano shakes the cobwebs off his head as Cashe launches for an aerial Double Axe Handle… NO! Mariano sidesteps and Cashe hits nothing but air!

Catching Cashe with an upper hand punch, Manny steps up and looks for his patented Step Up Enzuigiri that he calls “The Gadfly” but Cashe ducks the wide kick. As Manny springs to his feet and turns around, Cashe kicks him to the gut and drops him with a quick DDT. Slapping the canvas as he rises, Cashe walks to the nearby corner and slaps the top turnbuckle a few times! The crowd gets riled up with boos and a few cheers! Putting his back to the turnbuckles, Cashe props himself up and sits on the top turnbuckle with his feet on the middle!

Manny gets to all fours and turns towards the turnbuckle as he pushes to get to his feet. Cashe leaps off the middle turnbuckle, landing with his legs at either side of Manny's head. He grabs around his waist, lifts Manny up and snaps down, spiking Manny with a stiff and vicious Piledriver! Shoving Manny off to the side, Cashe lays across him and hooks the leg for 1…2…KICKOUT!

As Cashe pulls Manny to his feet, Manny shoves Cashe back. Turning, Manny rushes to the ropes, springs from them and shoots forward with his Rolling Koppu Kick but Cashe steps back just far enough for it to miss. Manny slaps down against the canvas as Cashe snatches up his right leg, turns Manny onto his stomach and applies a Single Leg Boston Crab! Manny roars out in pain as he reaches for the ropes!

CHARLES HUDSON: Cashe? Doing submission moves?

MCKAYLA LEWIS: Being allied with Chris Madison is clearly rubbing off on Cashe, at least here tonight! He's got that secured very well!

CHARLES HUDSON: And they say an Old DiOGee can't learn new tricks!

As Cashe pushes to his feet, Manny springs at him from a sprinters stance. Cashe lifts him up and drops him over a knee with a Reverse Atomic Drop! Manny grabbing hold of his 'Heavy' in pain bounces and stumbles back. Fighting through his pain, Manny field goal kicks Cashe right in the down belows, the referee perfectly out of angle and doesn't see the illegal kick. Now both were crooked legged as they lean against each other for support.

MCKAYLA LEWIS: They will both be walking with a limp tomorrow but not because their junk is heavy..

Leaning his left side against the ropes, Jason Cashe is sucking in air. Grabbing two handfuls of Manny's hair as he pushes up to a knee. Cashe lifts him to a standing position, Manny breaks free, steps back and swings high as he snaps towards Cashe and Cashe shoves his hands under Manny's armpits, lifting him up with a pop up. Cashe turns and shoves Manny midair over the top ropes. He bumps against the apron before spilling onto the ringside floor.

Cashe steps out onto the apron and as Manny crawls towards the steel stairs, he begins to use the stairs to get to his feet. He turns as he stands and watches as Cashe runs the ring apron, diving off them into a front flip, cannonball attack! Manny extends his arms, attempting to catch Cashe and as Cashe collides into Manny, Manny falls back over the stairs and the stairs explode into two sections!! Both men move in agony as they share some of the inflicted pain.

Manny throws a short forearm and knocks Cashe back into a stumble. Like his legs turned to jelly, he tries to keep himself upright. Manny steps in and strikes with another forearm, a little more power behind it and Cashe flings back into the corner. Instantly, Cashe rockets from the corner and boots Manny to the chest with a Sparta Kick! Manny falls back, landing on his butt as Cashe grabs the ropes to his left and falls back into the corner.

Manny shoves to his feet and as Cashe waves him in, Manny takes off into a sprint. Cashe looking for another Sparta Kick but Manny read the play and as Cashe throws his leg up, Manny leaps up, flipping over the leg and cracking Cashe over the forehead with a Leap Rolling Koppu Kick! Cashe is slapped down into the corner, seated as his head falls forward and snaps back in a whiplash motion. The camera zooms in on Cashe as blood begins to pour from his forehead and rolls down into his eyes and around his nose.

Manny tugs Cashe by the legs, dragging him away from the corner. Dropping down across him, Manny goes for the cover for 1…2…NEARFALL!

Manny gets to his feet and walks along the ropes, using them for balance as he readies himself for his finisher.

MARIANO FERNANDEZ: PROBLEM!!

His shout gets an echo chant from the crowd who howl it out after him. Cheers rise as he slides into position and begins to stalk Jason Cashe. Dragging himself to the ropes, Cashe pulls himself up. Getting to a knee, he falls through the middle rope and hangs for a moment. The referee checks on him as Cashe pulls at the top rope to get himself to his feet. Shoving off the ropes, Cashe turns around as Manny steps forward and Sprays the Asian Mist from his mouth! Cashe has both hands covering his entire face as if playing Peek-A-Boo. The mist stains and rolls off the back of Cashe's hands, he removes them from his face as Manny shoots for his Shining Wizard, Cashe drops down on his back, hooking Manny from behind as he lands on his feet. Cashe pulls him back and rolls Manny up with a School Boy, holding the tights for leverage for 1…2…3!

GRAHAM STEVENS: Your winner by pin fall is…JASON—CASHE!

CHARLES HUDSON:  Don’t call it an upset! Jason Cashe is a former World Heavyweight Champion and we knew just how good this one was going to be!

MCKAYLA LEWIS:  This definitely is a minor setback for Mariano Fernandez going into his World Heavyweight Championship match against Julianna DiMaria in two weeks from tonight.

CHARLES HUDSON:  One has to believe that this loss is going to either wear and tear on Da #TrollGuy over the next couple weeks or inspire him to overcome!

Mariano Fernandez accepts the hand extended by Jason Cashe as he helps pull him up to his feet. The two men shake hands and Cashe slaps him on the back before he rolls out of the ring and exits through the fans. Fernandez looks up the aisle way to find Julianna DiMaria standing at the top of the stage holding the World Heavyweight Championship over her head and telling him to bring it on!

MCKAYLA LEWIS:  Ladies and Gentlemen you’re looking at the Main Event of the MAINSTREAM 70! Let’s take a commercial break and when we return we’ll hear from the new World Tag Team Champions!

---

---