DEFIANCE TV 161 Night 1

Bright colorful lights roll across the arena as the Faithful go wild! The DEFtv opening video is playing on the DEFiatron. Many of the wrestlers we see on a daily basis as well as a few legends are shown before the music video comes to an end. The fireworks go off and the fans get even louder in the WrestlePlex as the red lights come to life on the cameras. 

Signs and excitement everywhere!

I THINK THE KABAL KIDNAPPED MY UNCLE PLEASE HELP
KEYES AND TROY ARE FRIENDSHIP GOALS
NED REFORM = DICKHEAD
FINAL FANTASY VII > OCARINA OF TIME
FIRST FOUR BLACK SABBATH ALBUMS > ALL MUSIC THAT CAME OUT IN THE PAST 10 YEARS
I BOUGHT A CAT AND NAMED IT HELEN
LT LOOKS (FIRE EMOJI)
MATTHEWS IS A FOX
THE KABAL FEARS NICKY SYNZ
JOE STATS ASKS THE HARD QUESTIONS
KNAR!
I BELIEVE
CORVO = RATINGS
BALLYHOOLIGANS 
REHIRE CARLA FIRE ARTHUR

DDK:
Good evening everyone, I’m “Downtown” Darren Keebler and welcome to night one of DEFtv 161. It’s the first night on the path to DEFIANCE ROAD and Lance Warner, we’ve got one heck of a card for the Faithful tonight!

Lance Warner:
Indeed we do, Keebs! “The Biggest Boy” Dex Joy is set to square off against Ballyhoo Brew’s big man “Fat Tuesday” Davey LaRue. The terrifying monster of the Kabal, Crimson Stalker, will go one on one with his DEFCON opponent from this year, Deacon. The leader of the Scourge, Arthur Pleasant, will pick up right where he left off from ACTS of DEFIANCE by taking on Dex Joy’s best friend, Nathan Eye. Gage Blackwood will defend the FIST of DEFIANCE against the wily veteran and Scourge member Jack Harmen. And our opening contest, which is set to get underway in a few moments, will see “El Sol Dorado” Alvaro de Vargas take on “The Queen of the Ring” Lindsay Troy.

DDK:
Tensions between those two have been simmering for awhile now and they boiled over a few weeks ago at Ballyhoo Brew when the Queen went looking for a fight after ADV’s ACTS of DEFIANCE match against her good friend Henry Keyes.

Lance:
And Tom Morrow has been fanning the flames. There is no love lost between Troy and the former Junior Keeling, the latter of whom keeps bringing up her personal life to try and get under her skin.

DDK:
Not a good idea under normal circumstances, but with the way the High Queen DEFIANT has been handling her affairs these last few months? He’s playing an absolutely dangerous game.

Lance:
He deserves everything he has coming to him, if I’m being honest.

DDK:
Hard to argue with you there, my friend. Let’s turn it over to Darren Quimbey for the intros.

The camera cuts to a dapper Darren Quimbey in the ring. “Dapper” isn’t his nickname but it’s kinda got a nice ring to it, yeah?

Darren Quimbey:
Ladies and gentlemen, the following match is scheduled for one fall! Introducing fir--

Tom Morrow:
NO, NO, NO, NO, NO! I’M DOING THE INTROS TONIGHT, JOE QUIMBEY! GET YOUR ASS BACK TO SPRINGFIELD! 

Quimbey stops and the arena is full of jeers tonight! Morrow comes out to kick off tonight’s edition of DEFtv in style… by wearing a stylish blue and black-striped suit. 

Tom Morrow:
You’re gonna see us add a new member to Better Future thanks to Jestal! You’re gonna see The Lucks do what they do best, but first of all, you get to see “El Sol Dorado” himself finally take the fight to Lindsay Tr---

Morrow isn’t able to finish his sentence because he has to sprint out of harm’s way. Fighting right through the curtain and trading stiff as fuck forearms are Alvaro de Vargas and Lindsay Troy, and they don’t have much of a sense of where they’re going...nor do they really care!

DDK:
Morrow’s not able to finish his absolute nonsense because we’ve got a brawl!

Lance:
It’s, dare I say it, a HOSSFITE?

DDK:
No better way to describe it, Lance!

Alvaro manages to get the upper hand briefly thanks to a sneaky thumb to the eye, but when he tries to follow that up with a big boot the Queen has the wherewithal to dodge out of the way. Troy sends a well-placed Muay-Thai mid-kick to ADV’s thigh, then another low kick to his shin, to bring him down to size. She follows that up with a big knee to the face and Alvaro’s back smacks against the stage, mere feet away from the commentation station.

Morrow inches closer to yell some encouragement to de Vargas and some bullshit at Troy, and the Queen whirls around and threatens to break his neck if he doesn’t stay the fuck out of her way! The boom mic picks it up and the Faithful cheer at Troy putting Morrow in his place, but when she turns back around Alvaro meets her with a spear!

DDK:
We’re only minutes into this match and the match hasn’t officially started yet!

Lance:
It won’t start if they don’t get in the ring! I don’t think either one of them really care about that though.

Alvaro drives BIG forearm after forearm into the Queen but she manages to turn the tide with a sneaky shot of her own; a knee to the Cuban Jewels! 

DDK:
If you ever wondered whether ADV can sing soprano, you might find out tonight.

“El Tigre Cubano” rolls off Troy, clutching his groin, while she rolls to the side to try and shake the cobwebs out. Benny Doyle has now made his way up the ramp from the ring and is trying to encourage both DEFIANTS to get into the ring and get this match officially started.

Lance:
God bless Benny, he has to know this is a losing effort but he’s gonna try anyway.

Troy’s up to her feet first and she grabs hold of ADV’s hair. She sends a stiff kick to his ribs, but her hold on his head doesn’t allow him to fall back down. The Queen drags him to his feet, throws a couple more forearms to keep him loopy, and then starts hauling him down the ramp.

DDK:
Looks like the Queen might be heeding Benny after all, Lance.

Morrow is screaming at Benny to disqualify Troy for the “illegal” low blow and “pulling” at de Vargas’ hair but the match hasn’t started so what’s he gonna do? The two rivals are at the bottom of the ramp when Alvaro sends a straight punch to Troy’s kidney, which halts her in her tracks. This gives him the opportunity to get out of her grasp, lift her up…

CLANG!

...and flapjack her onto the steel steps! 

BOOOOOOOOOOOO!

DDK:
Dear Lord, that impact!

Lance:
Lindsay Troy hit hard, Keebs. That may be a concussion or a broken nose.

Troy falls back to the mats, clearly dazed but with no blood to show for Alvaro’s sadism. Benny Doyle runs to check on her and she shakes her head, waving him off. de Vargas shoves Benny out of the way and lands a BIG elbow drop to the Queen’s prone body. And another one! And ANOTHER one!

BOOOOOOOOOOOO!

Alvaro de Vargas:
Bastante! La Reina está siendo ejecutada!

DDK:
Yikes… I speak a little Spanish and I don’t want to translate… just take my word that he is just an awful human being.

Lance:
Y’know, I don’t like to wish ill on other people unless it’s warranted but I’m really upset Helen didn’t bite him.

DDK:
Or eat him.

Alvaro hauls Troy off the ground and stuffs her underneath the bottom rope. He slides into the ring, as does Benny Doyle, who calls for the bell.

DING DING

And de Vargas immediately goes for the cover!

ONE!

TWO!

KICKOUT!

“El Sol Dorado” sneers and latches onto Troy’s throat with his hand to choke her. Benny starts his count and at FOUR POINT FIVE, de Vargas releases. 

DDK:
This fight has been brewing since after Acts of DEFIANCE! A win over someone the caliber of a Lindsay Troy would be the feather in the cap of Alvaro’s impressive DEFIANCE career. 

Lance:
Indeed, but the brutality of this is off the charts and we’re just getting started tonight! 

ADV measures Troy up, but before she can get up, he nails her on point with a big running discus clothesline! Troy hits the mat and again, ADV goes for the cover. 

ONE!

TWO!

TH-KICKOUT!

Troy kicks out again, garnering big cheers from the Faithful while ADV growls under his breath. Morrow tries to calm him down, but El Sol Dorado is still seeing red over the past few weeks. He continues to argue with the referee and slaps his hand three times in rapid succession, yelling to count faster in Spanish. 

DDK:
ADV has to keep his focus on her instead of arguing with the referees!

He moves in again to try the same move but Troy explodes upwards, catching him in the face with her forehead!

DDK:
BIG headbutt by the Queen of the Ring!

Lance:
Might not be the smartest move considering that shot she took off the steps but there’s few in DEFIANCE who are tougher than her!

Troy follows that headbutt up with a right punch to the temple. Then a left. Then a sneer of her own graces her face and she hits Alvaro with a bellclap!

Not *the* BELLCLAP~! But a bellclap nonetheless!

The Faithful go wild at the sight of Troy giving a nod to Henry Keyes and de Vargas is reeling! She gets to her feet, sprints off the ropes, and connects with a Queen’s Gambit to a kneeling ADV!

DDK:
Flying double knees to the face of de Vargas!

Lance:
Oh but he rolled out of the ring!

The impact sends Alvaro sprawling to the outside, where now HE’S dazed! Tom Morrow is yelling encouraging words to his client and Benny starts his count.

ONE!

TWO!

THREE!

FOUR!

FIVE!

Alvaro is getting to his feet now, but inside the ring, Lindsay Troy smells blood in the water. She runs off the ropes again and sprints back toward de Vargas, getting a head of steam, cartwheels in the ring and launches herself over the top rope!

WHAM!

HOLY SHIT!
HOLY SHIT!
HOLY SHIT!

DDK:
Sasuke Special II! Nobody in DEFIANCE does it better!

Lance:
That was a direct hit, Darren, but now BOTH Lindsay and Alvaro are down!

Morrow is standing by, holding his head in disbelief, but he eventually gets his head back about him and starts hollering for Alvaro to get back up. Benny’s back on his count again, up to three!

Lindsay hit the deck harder than anticipated, and she’s having trouble getting vertical. Same with Alvaro. 

Benny’s up to six.

Troy’s up to a knee. Then up to her feet. de Vargas is up to both knees.

EIGHT!

The Queen of the Ring stumbles toward the ring.

NINE!

There’s movement coming through the curtain.

Troy leaps for the apron to roll under the bottom rope, but Alvaro grabs her foot at the last second and stops her!

TEN!

DING DING DING

BOOOOOOOOOOOO!

DDK:
What a disappointing way to end this match, Lance.

Lance:
I couldn’t agree more, Darren….wait, look out!

The “movement coming through the curtain” is none other than the “Killer Bear” Jack Mace, who barrels into the Queen of the Ring and sandwiches her against the apron!

DING DING DING
DING DING DING
DING DING DING

Mace starts laying into Troy while Alvaro gets completely standing. The cocky Cuban looks pleased with himself; if he couldn’t win the match, at least Troy didn’t either...and she’s still catching a beating.

Troy stands her ground and starts fighting back against Jack, but Alvaro quickly joins his BFTA partner to make it a two on one affair. This doesn’t last long as someone else bolts down the ramp from backstage and the Faithful couldn’t be happier to see him.

DDK:
Here comes the Airship Pirate!

Lance:
You know it was only gonna be a matter of time!

Henry barrels into ADV and starts hammering away with massive, massive fists. ADV gives it right back to him but Keyes is the far fresher, far angrier man and he quickly overwhelms de Vargas. He lands uppercut after uppercut before grabbing him by the waist and heaving him up over his head with a big suplex!

Keyes is about to pounce again when DEFSec swarm onto the scene to get between him and Alvaro and to break up Jack Mace and Lindsay Troy. The Killer Bear and the Queen of the Ring don’t want to stop their fisticuffs but they’re eventually pulled away from one another and a wall is built between the Better Future Talent Agency and Troy and Keyes. Henry looks furious for a few moments more until he finally calms down and looks at Troy with concern. She nods and reassures him that she’s OK.

DDK:
What a wild opening match that was. Nothing seems to have been settled between Troy and BFTA, and you know nothing’s settled between Keyes and de Vargas.

Lance:
Much, much more to come on that front I’m sure, Darren.

DDK:
We need to take a commercial break but don’t go anywhere, we’ll be right back!

ADV is still reeling after the suplex and being dragged away by security with Mace and Morrow following behind. Troy and especially Henry Keyes stare them down as the show moves onward. 

Catch DEFIANCE Live in your town! DEFIANCEWrestling.com

Black screen.

♫ Mozart - Symphony No. 40 in G minor, K. 550 ♫

As the classical symphony begins to play, the following words appear on the screen in fancy font:

NED Talks
w/Doctor Ned Reform

Deep Voiced V/O:
This is “NED Talks” with Dr. Ned Reform.

Fade into a large oak desk. On the desk are various items of a professional nature: file folders, open books, etc. On the left corner of the desk is a large globe. On the right corner is a shiny nameplate that reads “Dr. Ned Reform.” In a cushy desk chair dead center sits the man himself, Ned Reform. He’s got his reading glasses on and is wearing a professional dark blue suit coat. Reform is reading a rather thick book until he catches sight of the camera out of the corner of his eye. He flashes a shit-eating grin, closes the book, and turns in his chair to face the camera head on.

Ned Reform:
We meet again, children.

In the arena, we can hear a small smattering of boos. Presumably, this segment is being played over the DEFitron for the live audience.

Ned Reform:
I want to start off by acknowledging that I’ve heard you. I’ve read your emails, I’ve seen your social media posts, and I’ve especially cherished your hand written letters. So many of you have expressed concern for my physical and mental well-being after the thrashing I suffered at the hand of those two brutes. I can assure you, physically… I am in my prime. I have never been more fit, in fact. As for my resolve…

Reform sighs. He removes his glasses.

Ned Reform:
Before I address that… allow me to indulge myself by telling you a little story. 

Reform grins. In the arena, audible groans. One lone badass yells out “YOU SUCK, DOCTOR DICKHEAD!”

Ned Reform:
This is a story of a man. A man born to the humblest of beginnings to a mother and daughter in the absolute dregs of poverty. And while this was a man destined for greatness, during his formative years, our hero did nothing of note: he worked his hands to the bone in blue collar jobs. He was on track to be another drone in the machine, toiling from dusk till dawn just to put bread on the table. And then…

Reform looks up, as if suddenly caught in a daydream.

Ned Reform:
And then he started talking! This man, this seemingly unremarkable man, began to philosophize. Not only that, but he began to travel and spread his good word. Wherever our hero went, he lectured to the downtrodden, to the broken, to the marginalized. He showed them a better way - a path to righteous salvation. Not only that, but our hero was able to perform feats of wonder that were borderline unexplainable. Rumors began to swirl that this man might be more than a man. That he might be… divine. 

Reform looks back into the camera. 

Ned Reform:
But of course, as our hero began to amass followers devoted to his good word, those in power began to grow uneasy. This man’s insights and natural charisma were a threat to the established order, and the ruling class could not abide by this man upsetting the balance that propped them up into their ivory towers. And what did they do?

Reform’s face darkens.

Ned Reform:
They destroyed him. They betrayed him. They humiliated him. They opted to make his end public and to make him suffer slowly to send a message: this is the fate for anyone who dares attempt to upset the status quo.

Reform’s face brightens.

Ned Reform:
But our hero was too strong for that, children. Despite the best efforts of the evil forces that conspired against him… HE ROSE! His spirit could not be destroyed! And his return inspired his followers so much that they ensured his word would never die.

Reform’s fists clench. He can barely contain his glee.

Ned Reform:
They were so devoted that they carried his ideas forth... forever. Through the annals of history, his message spread. He was heard! His words were shouted on every corner of the globe! PEOPLE WERE WILLING TO DIE FOR HIS MESSAGE!!

Reform catches himself getting worked up. He takes a deep breath, adjusts his tie, and regains his composure. 

Ned Reform:
Apologies, children. But I get so worked up. I hope you’ve enjoyed my story. Although I take it many of you have heard this tale before, yes? Of course you all know who I am talking about.

A beat. An uneasy silence in the arena. He’s not going to say what they think he is… is he?

Ned Reform:
Of course, this was a story about Dr. Ned Reform.

He is.

Ned Reform:
You see, ACTS of DEFIANCE was a very public attempt to destroy me. The Favored Saints sent their apostles to silence me. To stop me from exposing their corruption, their folly, and their ineptitude. Did I take a walloping? I did. But is my resolve broken? NEVER!

Reform stands from his seat, leaning forward across his desk dramatically. 

Ned Reform:
Like the phoenix of legend, Dr. Ned Reform will rise from the ashes of defeat. He will return to DEFIANCE more committed to his mission than ever! For you see, I’ve realized that change on a large scale is a fool’s game. No… I must instead aim smaller. Make incremental changes. Instead of sweeping reforms to the entire company… we must engage with individuals. 

Reform sits back in his chair. He folds his hands.

Ned Reform:
There is one person… one individual on the DEFIANCE roster who desperately needs my help. This person does not know it yet, but they are practically crying out to be saved. And I know exactly what this person needs. In four weeks....

Reform holds up four fingers.

Ned Reform:
...at DEFtv 163, Dr. Reform returns. He returns to show this person the way. To show this person… the light. To make DEFIANCE a better place…

A grin.

Ned Reform:
...one person at a time.

Reform leans back and swivels his chair so that he is facing away from the camera. The camera begins to slowly pan out as we hear...

Deep Voiced V/O:
This has been “NED Talks” with Dr. Ned Reform.

We hard cut to the commentation station with Darren Keebler and Lance Warner. Around them, The Faithful are booing the blowhard’s words.

DDK:
I… I don’t even know what to say to that.

Lance:
Maybe… we just move on?

DDK:
Probably the best approach. Folks, up next we have a heck of a match up when "The Biggest  Boy" Dex Joy squares off with the newest member of The Saturday Night Specials Davey LaRue!

DDK:
We have a very unique match coming up next and it will see the former Southern Heritage and Favoured Saints champion Dex Joy taking on Davey LaRue! LaRue wanted to test himself after returning to the ring following a layoff as the bartender for Ballyhoo Brew but he will get tested I assure you!

Lance:
That’s right. Meanwhile Dex Joy might be coming off a serious loss to Arthur Pleasant and because of that match, Carla Ferrari has lost her job with DEFIANCE Wrestling. We haven’t heard from Dex so we don’t know what kind of headspace he’s in after that defeat, but he wanted to show up tonight so we’ll find out. 

The lights in the arena start to flicker on and off before simulating a blackout. The lights go out. Fans reach out for their cell phones and try to light up the WrestlePlex. The lights slowly come back in the arena, section by section until, on the big screen a cell phone battery display charges… charges… charges… and soon it’s at 1000%. “BIG DEX ENERGY!!!!” is on the screen! BOOM! BOOM! BOOM! BOOM! BOOM!!! Five bright yellow lightning bolts strike the stage and fire off massive streams of pyro as the theme kicks in!

Darren Quimbey:
The following match is for one fall! Introducing the former Favoured Saints and Southern Heritage champion … he is from Los Angeles, California and weighs in at three-hundred fifty-five pounds… “THE BIGGEST BOY” DEEEEEXXXXXX JJJJJJOOOOYYYYYY!!!!!!

♫ “Go Big or Go Home” by Chuxx Morris ♫

Sparks shoot up from either side of the entrance where the lightning landed. Walking through it is the former SO-HER and Favoured Saints champ himself who looks like he is in no mood tonight. He looks out to a great reception from the DEFIANCE Wrestling Faithful and then steps to the ring. When he gets there he raises two fists in the air. 

♫ “Poison Whiskey” by Lynyrd Skynyrd ♫

The Faithful let out a cheer as ‘Fat Tuesday’ Davey LaRue makes his way out onto the stage with a single fist raised high above his head. 

DDK:
And here comes Davey LaRue, who’s getting a great ovation as he heads down the ramp. Lance, are you surprised that he’s come out here without Mojo, or the other members of SNS for that matter?

Lance:
I think it’s a sign of respect to Dex, partner. No funny business or distractions on the outside. Just two competitors going all out in the ring.

Davey LaRue is now in the ring face to face with Dex Joy. The Ballyhoo Brewser puts a hand out to the Biggest Boy and Dex takes it, showing some respect for his opponent. 

DING DING

The two big bulls collide quickly and fight to both sides of the ring! The Biggest Boy has the power advantage over Davey and then throws him on the mat with a big slam. He runs to the ropes and tries a jumping elbow drop but he misses his target when Davey moves. Davey decides to try a leg drop but before he can hit his move Dex suddenly moves and the Ballyhoo Brewser hits the mat instead. Dex Joy is up and then he runs right into Davey using a big clothesline to win the first exchange between the two men! 

DDK:
Impressive flurry of moves from both men but it’s the more powerful Dex Joy winning round one here. 

Lance:
Davey isn’t an inexperienced wrestler by any means but Joy has been much more active. Davey left wrestling for a few years so while he’s trying to find himself, Dex has no such problems. 

Dex grabs Davey and then plants him using a big scoop slam before he sits Davey up in the middle. Dex bounces the ropes again this time he hits a low diving cross body!

ONE.

TWO.

NO!

DDK:
Impressive moves by the agile Dex Joy! He’s trying to focus, but you can see it in his face. His mind might be elsewhere. 

The Biggest Boy gets cheers from the energetic crowd. He scoops Davey up in his arms and the fans are surprised that he’s going for the Dex Drive early, but Davey uses elbows to the head to free himself from the grip of Dexy Baby. He returns fire using a few jabs to the face of Dex then grabs a wrist. He turns the massive Dex around and then strikes him across the temple with a rip cord roaring elbow he calls the Boilermaker!

DDK:
No way! Boilermaker by Davey! 

Dex doesn’t go down from the shot much to the surprise of Davey but he does teeter back to the corner. Davey yells out to the crowd and then calls for a big jumping stinger splash in the corner and gets it! The first splash isn’t enough so he jumps back off the ropes for a second splash!

Lance:
Davey has Dex! He has him stunned it the corner! Can Davey pull off a big upset here tonight?

Davey has Dex where he wants him. He speeds off the ropes then uses a massive running clothesline of his own and suddenly Dex is down! 

DDK:
Davey might do it! He might have Dex!

ONE.

TW-

Before the count of two fully comes, the Biggest Boy fires up. 

DDK:
Dex is in a mood! Davey almost had him there and I don’t think he likes it! 

Davey gets ready to fight back and then kisses a fist before he winds up his fist and then strikes Dex upside the head with a big windmill punch! The big strike sends Dex back, but Big Dex Energy seems to be taking over when he fires up and hits a heavy elbow upside the head of the Ballyhoo Brewser. LaRue throws one back with a elbow to the top of Dex’s head, but he comes back out of nowhere with a swinging back elbow to the face. Davey is rocked and then gets pushed into the ropes before he is thrown with a big belly to belly suplex across the ring!

Lance:
Lots of impact off that belly to belly from the ropes! Will that be enough for Dex to win?

ONE.

TWO.

NO!

DDK:
Close one! Both big men are back and forth in this match! Davey might be getting some of his sea legs back where the ring is concerned!

Davey gets take up for the ride with a fireman’s carry. The Dex-5 is next for Dex, but Davey wants no part of the fireman’s carry face buster and slips behind Dex with a big falling neck breaker.

DDK:
Davey counters! Can he hit that one big move and win?

Lance:
He looks like he’s going to try.

Dex is flattened near a corner while Davey hurries to his feet. He runs and jumps over Dex laying flat on the corner to hit a corner slingshot splash he calls the Irish Car Bomb!

ONE.

TWO.

THR-

Three fingers come up from Davey but Dex’s shoulder is clearly up before the three count!

DDK:
Almost an upset here! Davey trying something else. I believe he has a spear or similar move as a finisher? What is he thinking?

He gets himself propped in a corner for Dex to try and get up. The former holder of the Favoured Saints and Southern Heritage titles doesn’t see Davey and the crowd tries to warn Dex. Davey comes running but instead of getting a big spear, he gets a big kick from the Biggest Boy to block the spear! He ends up stunned in place for Dex to come off the ropes to flatten big Davey LaRue with his pounce shoulder tackle!

DDK:
No! Dex beats him to the punch! That was Dexy’s Midnight Runner! And now Davey is in the corner with nowhere else to go! He’s out of it!

Davey ends up hit into the corner where he is in perfect position for Dex to run and hit Jump for Joy in the corner!

Lance:
Jump For Joy! Jump for Joy! This one is over!

Davey gets pulled from the corner by a leg and Dex goes for the win.

ONE.

TWO.

THREE!

DING DING DING

The Biggest Boy gets the win and the DEFIANCE Wrestling Faithful go crazy!

Darren Quimbey:
Your winner is DEEEEEXXXXXXXXX JJJJOOOOOOYYYYY!!!

DDK:
Dex took a lot from Davey in this high-impact brawl! Davey scored a few good blows but in the end, Dex’s big match experience power advantage propelled him for the win.

Dex gets on his knees to help Davey LaRue back to his feet and gets him some love from the crowd for raising the hand of the Ballyhoo Brewser! Davey taps his shoulder and the two exchange quick words before Davey leaves. Dex motions to Quimbey and wants his microphone.

Lance:
Dex Joy wins the match but tonight … it looks like other things might be on his mind.

And they are. He doesn’t wait for Quimbey and takes his microphone.

Dex Joy:
Quimbey … I’m sorry pally, but Dexy Baby needs to get something off his big bosoms right now.

The Biggest Boy has the microphone.

Dex Joy:
Kids in attendance, cover your ears. This is your only warning, little pallies. Five. Four. Three. Two. One.

Then he looks up.

Dex Joy:
ARTHUR MOTHER-FUCKING PLEASANT!

The mere mention of his name gets a symphony of loud jeers.

Dex Joy:
You, mister “pure wrestler!” Good for you! I pulled off a miracle and actually made Tim Tillinghast say nice things about you when you got into the ring with me … but the problem is, pal… no, fuck that you aren’t my pally now or ever. Arthur, you giant puckered ass-hole…

DDK:
Ooof!

Dex Joy:
You know and I know that the rest of the Scourge gave you the win! We both know Carla Ferrari should still be officiating matches and you should be in a gutter somewhere having people pay you five dollars to see you jump off rooftops in any other promotion but here! Unfortunately, we’re stuck with you for some reason … but Artie, that means you are also gonna be stuck with me!

A loud eruption of cheers comes from the angry Biggest Boy.

Dex Joy:
Artie, every opponent I see is you! This ends when Carla has her job back and this ends when I get you alone in this ring one more time to give you the trampling you deserve. You can bet tonight I will be in Nate’s corner later tonight when you fight him mano e mano and you can beat that Big Dex Energy is going to stomp that ass!

Dex shoves the microphone so hard into the chest of Quimbey that he almost falls over! Joy leaves the ring to big pops.

DDK:
Dex hasn’t forgotten what happened at Acts of DEFIANCE and now he’s out. A fired up Dex is one of the most powerful and dangerous men in DEFIANCE Wrestling!

Lance:
And he’s right. Later tonight Nathan Eye will face Arthur Pleasant! Nate will have Dex on his side but no way does Arthur not have the Scourge in his.

♫ "Money" by Of Mice and Men ♫

Tom Morrow leads his boys and girl out from the back. Although no Dandelion is among them, just the Sevens, “Lady Luck” Ophelia Sykes, Jack Mace, and Jestal. ADV's absense presumed earlier to the attack by Henry Keyes. In the ring, though it has been decorated with balloons and other party-like items.

DDK:
Well at Acts The Lucky Sevens proved they were a force to be reckoned with. They may not have come out with gold, but they left SNS broken and beaten. Vargas would fall to Keyes, but did assualt him after as well. In fact, ADV due to the attack with Henry Keyes, was thrown out of the building. In fact, the only one to come out of the pay per view with a win is Jestal “Mr. Conspiracy Theorist” himself.

Lance:
Yea, well he didn’t make it out without the help of his sister Dandelion. A woman our staff back there have tried to get a word from but she has avoided all questions or interviews since she turned on her boyfriend Klein.

DDK:
Judging by this party theme in the ring. Could this be Dandelion’s welcome party to Better Future?

Lance:
That would be my guess as well my friend.

The group has made their way in the ring and Jestal has an ear-to-ear smile.

Jestal:
Hello My Duckies!

Jeers ring out throughout the Wrestleplex.

Jestal:
Thank you for that warm reception. So as much as I and Better Future would like to spend time with you lowlifes. [Jeers] We have other matters to attend to BUT FIRST!

Jestal looks toward the entranceway as do the rest of the group.

Jestal:
I would like to introduce you to the newest member of Better Future! One half of the greatest tag team in DEFIANCE.

This gets a look between Max and Mason for a second.

Jestal:
My sister….DANDELION!

With an extended hand out toward the entranceway and Morrow with a dastardly smile on his face.

♫ Dollhouse by Melanie Martinez ♫

DDK:
The Faithful here are not happy with this young woman.

Lance:
She has been through an emotional rollercoaster this year.

It takes a few moments, but eventually, Dani appears on the stage in black shoes, with cotton candy ripped jeans with a lavender belt, and a Suicidal Doll purple shirt. Her blond hair pulled back into a ponytail. That same emotionless look she had at Acts of DEFIANCE still on her face.

She walks to the ring, and as she reaches the ring. Tom Morrow opens the ropes for her. She is reluctant to take the gesture looking at her brother. He assures her it's fine. She shakes her head and enters the ring. Jestal quickly hugs her, she does not return the hug as she stares at Better Future clapping at her arrival.

Jestal:
Ladies and gentlemen! The newest member of Bett…

Dandelion puts her hand over the microphone quickly turning this happy mood into a silent mood. She points around at Better Future then points at herself and shakes her head at Jestal. She then kisses him on the forehead and exits the ring. Now getting a positive reaction from The Faithful, she however does not respond to it. As she disappears behind the curtain Jestal tries to explain her actions to Tom and the rest of Better Future.

DDK:
Well, perhaps Dandelion has had second thoughts on all this. This young woman does not have that sadistic attitude her nasty brother has. I have always known her as an innocent cheerful woman. It has left Jestal with egg on his face too. Tom doesn’t look too happy about all this.

Lance:
Maybe she could only find one solution to the outcome at Acts, and it was to get Klein out of the match before any further damage could be done to him.

DDK:
That is a good theory there Lance. Time will tell where this goes from here.

Back in the ring...

Jestal:
Don’t worry Tommy, she will come around. She is just a little shy, that's all.

Jestal looks back at the entranceway with a look like he may not believe what he just said. As Better Future chat behind him.

DDK:
Welcome back folks! This next match is sure to be interesting! Post ACTS of DEFIANCE press conference, Teresa Ames made it clear that there was a challenger to her… erm.. pet.

Lance:
It’s really strange to call him that isn’t it? But for Teresa it simply rolls right off the tongue. 

DDK:
Strange is a simple term to define how I feel about Teresa’s assertion of dominance over Stalker’s mind. You’d think that since he’s a formidable, resilient man that he would simply break free from these silly games but… i’m almost starting to feel like this is real.

Lance:
Are you a believer like me now?!

DDK:
I believe…

Lance:
Speaking of that! The man, or as we should say - Mute Freak challenging Crimson Stalker is none other than Deacon himself! The same man who appeared to have ended Stalker’s chaos wheel at DEFCON 2021! 

DDK:
From what I can tell Deacon’s destruction of the original version of Stalker unleashed a much more deadly monster in that of Crimson Stalker!

Lance:
Darren Quimbey appears ready to go, let’s switch to the ring for this monster vs. monster match up!

Darren Quimbey:
The following match up is a Stalker’s Rules One vs. One contest, scheduled for one fall! Introducing first… 

♫ “This Link is Dead” by Deftones ♫

The Faithful stands up in a unified chorus of boos as Crimson Stalker’s highlight package plays on the DEFIAtron. Teresa Ames struts out first, wearing the new Kabal t-shirt and is followed by her ‘pet’ Crimson Stalker. With his red mask beating against his lips Crimson Stalker’s eyes and poise look ready for war tonight.

Darren Quimbey:
Hailing from Seattle, Washington… Weighing in at 235 pounds…… CRIMMMSONNNNN STALKER!!!!!

Panning over the crowd they jeer in reaction as Teresa Ames smiles and waves at the crowd as if they are her number 1 fans. Crimson Stalker meanwhile walks with a menacing purpose to the ring, unwilling to give anything around him the slightest bit of attention. 

DDK:
He’s like a mechanical beast, a monster Terminator, everytime I look into his eyes I don’t see a soul anymore.

Lance:
Wow Darren, that’s deep. I’m really starting to think you’ve been looking deeper into Stalker’s eyes than I have.

DDK:
Lance… let’s focus on the match please?

As the crimson lights of DEFArena switch back to the house lights, Teresa Ames walks around on the outside of the ring, taking selfies of herself and paying very little attention to her pet in the ring. Crimson Stalker stands motionless in his corner staring at the rampway.

Darren Quimbey:
And his opponent….. 

♫ “The Gregorian Chant begins”  ♫

Darren Quimbey:
Hailing from AL-X-ANNN-DRIA, Egypt. Here is DEACON!!!!!

The spotlight catches the lady who has been with Deacon since his return to wrestling in 2020, Magdalena. Behind her, draped in the monk’s robe, stands the 7 footer former 2-time World champion. Magdalena takes in the crowd, letting the buzz grow, before stepping onto the stage and toward the ring. After a few steps, she turns to see the Deacon still like stone. She says a few words and then the Deacon steps onto the stage beside her.

DDK:
Not to point out the obvious, but these two fought at DEFCON, but they didn’t do it in a ring. This, tonight, will be the first time either men have stepped into the ring in a 1 on 1 match since that fateful night.

Jonny Fastcountini calls out the lack of rules for a Stalker’s rules match to the mute monsters of both Crimson Stalker and Deacon. 

Lance:
Gotta feel for newly promoted Jonny Fastcountini here, first match on DEFIANCE television just so happens to be between two men who don’t speak, or at least prefer not to. The bell rings and we are off! 

DDK:
Stalker’s Rules, NO DQ, No Count Outs, Weapons allowed and pinfall must happen in the ring! This is going to be a bloody match, and we must remember Deacon had that HOSS match with Corvo Alpha on Uncut. 

Lance:
It still seems disbelieving that, not only was THAT match on free TV, but it was on UNCUT. And this, the first time these two men locked horns, or even LOOKED at one another since DEFCON, will ALSO be on free TV. Regardless, I don’t think either man is going to be looking for weapons in this rematch, bitter hatred is on display as both Monsters of Men are now standing face down and face up in the middle of the ring!

DING DING

The bell is a kick off to action as Crimson Stalker unloads a heavy right hand but Deacon blocks it, Stalker with a HARD LEFT, another BLOCK by DEACON! Deacon steps back. Stalker recovers for a brief second and DEACON follows up with a BIG CHOP! Crimson Stalker absorbs the blow and pushes Deacon back with both of his hands.

Lance:
Neither of DEFIANCE’s monsters are backing down here!

Deacon shoves Jason Reeves back, steps up with an overhead AXE chop, Stalker throws up both arms, CATCHES Deacon’s hands as Stalker kicks The Mute Freak in the gut! KNEE LIFT to Deacon’s ribs, UPPERCUT by Stalker! 

DDK:
The combo has Deacon reeling now!

The Faithful let out a loud clap, followed by an ‘I BELIEVE’ single chant as Crimson Stalker bounces off the ropes to follow up on Deacon with a running clothesline, but the big man is ready as Jason Reeves is met with a BIG BOOT from the Legend of DEFIANCE!

Lance:
WOW! Crimson Stalker took a BIG hit there!

DDK:
Definitely stopped his methodical momentum he was building! Deacon’s following up now!

Lifting Jason Reeves up with ease, Deacon, the rival of The Kabal’s Sword has Stalker hooked then LIFTS Stalker up for a Hanging Vertical SUPLEX! The Faithful let out an awe inspired gasp as Big D displays his utter strength as DEFIANCE’s best big man! 

Lance:
What IMPACT!

With a thunderous drop, Jason’s back collides with the ring mat. Crimson holds still, but not as if he’s hurt, more like he’s waiting. The noticed the difference.

DDK:
He’s not as hurt as you think, Deacon - get on Crimson Stalker!

Following up quickly on the suplex, Deacon kicks Stalker over to his gut. Slowly moving back against the ropes, Deacon lumbers forward and DROPS his knee SQUARE into Stalker’s lower back!

DDK:
Teresa seems ill pleased with the early exchange here as she has now refocused her attention to the ring, instead of her cell phone.

Repeatedly smacking the mat in angst, Teresa also whistles towards her pet in hopes that the shrill call will spark some life in her monster. It does, in fact, stir something as Crimson Stalker musters his fists into two tight balls and mechanically pushes himself up from the mat. The Mute Freak lumbers forward to grapple Stalker but he deftly drops to the mat into a Drop Toe Hold!

Lance:
Deacon’s face hit the mat hard from that one!

Like a monster seeing blood spilt, Stalker wastes no time capitalizing as he rushes towards his feet and levies a heavy set of kicks and boots to the back of Deacon’s head! Jonny Fastcounti gives him a look to back off but CStalk doesn’t budge!

DDK:
Fastcounti’s in a pickle, as Stalker is repeatedly kicking the back of Deacon’s head and neck to keep him down on the mat but with this being a Stalker’s Rules match up, Jonny can’t do or say anything to get Stalker to back off.

Deacon’s large frame plays into his benefit as he manages to push up and reach for the middle rope. Using it as support, he kicks towards Stalker in an aimless fashion but it’s enough to stall Stalker’s brute assault! 

Lance:
Crimson Stalker was taken off balance by Deacon’s abrupt kick at him! But he’s charging back now! Deacon’s ready…. He’s GOT Stalker by the neck!!! 

CHOKESLAM!!! The Faithful erupt in cheers as Stalker is lifted with might force into the air and driven down into the canvas! Deacon wastes no time pressing down on Stalker’s chest and hooking the leg…

ONE!!

TWO!!

TNO! KICKOUT!

Jonny Fastcountini seems elated to have his first near fall in the books on DEFIANCE main television as he bravely shows up a strong two fingers to the masked and heavily breathing Deacon. Nodding his head in understanding, Deacon lifts Stalker up, but Stalker tries to fight him off. With fiery eyes, Deacon glares at the Crimson Stalker before grabbing the creature by the throat and…. TOSSING STALKER OVER THE TOP ROPE!!

DDK:
YIKES!! What a fall! Crimson Stalker.. Regardless of what he may think he is… monster or man, that HAD to hurt!

Replays show Crimson Stalker hurdling head first over the top and onto the unforgiving DEFIANCE ring surrounding mats. Teresa Ames rushes over to Stalker to help rile him up a bit as The Faithful gives her a bit of heckling on the outside. Magdalena watches on from the far side of the other ring, but she does her best also to direct Deacon’s attention to Stalker.

Lance:
All rules are off, Stalker could walk back into that ring with anything! He can take as long as he wants to recover on the outside, Deacon can not let up the pressure!

Stepping over the top rope, Deacon steadies himself on the apron before dropping down another Axe Handle Chop! This one connects and sends Stalker flailing to the ground! Teresa Ames screams at Deacon but the Mute Freak pays Stalker’s handler no mind as Deacon hoists Stalker vertical. With a yank onto Stalker’s arm, Deacon whips Stalker into the ring, or tries to. Stalker puts a too up then spins, punching Deacon in the chest. Stalker pulls away from the Big D before STOMPING on Deacon’s FOOT and RAMMING him face first into the ring apron!!

DDK:
Oof that had to hurt! 

The Faithful gives Stalker a good heckling on the outside as he stands with a menacing presence above the heavily breathing Deacon. Leaning over to pick him up, Crimson Stalker shows impressive strength while rolling the big mute monster into the ring. The Faithful stand up to their feet as Stalker pauses, looking under the ring he catches a glimpse of a single steel chair yanking it out, he looks up to Teresa Ames who nods her head into the ring. 

Lance:
Looks like Teresa’s pet can follow head cues! This control is evolving! 

Gripping the steel chair with ferocious anger in eyes, Crimson Stalker slides himself into the ring, slowly moving towards his feet which allows Deacon time to recover. Jonny Fastcountini thought he made it through without an illegal object being brought into the ring, but he was wrong! Stalker’s Rules were under full display as the Kabal’s Sword screams in anger before Jason Reeves swings the chair wildly at Deacon! 

CLANG!

DDK:
Deacon blocked the chair shot with his forearm! The same forearm that Stalker mangled during their feud against one another!

Lance:
Deacon KICKS Stalker backwards and yanks the chair free! Oh man, are we going to see the big man swing at Stalker now?!

The Faithful rise up to their feet in anticipation as Deacon stumbles back with the chair in hand, Teresa is screaming from the outside!

Teresa Ames:
SANGUINE SALIVA!!!!!

DDK:
NOT THAT AGAIN!

Stalker begins hyperventilating in the corner as Jonny Fastcountini holds his breath along with the fans. Deacon lumbers forward with the chair raised! BLOOD SPIT FROM CRIMSON STALKER!

Lance:
Deacon JUST USED THE CHAIR to block the blood spit! And oh NO! Not Jonny!!

DDK:
What a first night! His face is covered in that gunk!!

The Faithful let out a mix of boos and laughter as Jonny Fastcountini struggles with the situation, his face covered from top to bottom in the blood spray! Deacon turns to Jonny, his mind processing what just happened. Stalker approaches after the exchange! Deacon turns to Stalker, and again, those eyes remember. 

Lance:
Stalker ducks a swinging chair shot! 

DDK:
LOW BLOW to Deacon from behind!! The Crimson Stalker didn’t miss!

With a thud, Deacon drops to one knee, the chair in his hands falling to the mat in front of him. Crimson Stalker seizes the moment, strapping his rival into his patented Evenflow hook. Jason ‘Stalker’ Reeves looks out to the crowd with a void stare in his eyes as Teresa hops the apron to offer Jonny a wipe for face!

DDK:
EVENFLOW DDT ONTO THE CHAIR!!

The Faithful stand to their feet in disarray, as Teresa Ames helps Jonny Fast wipe his eyes, just in time to turn around and see Crimson Stalker rolling Deacon around for a pinning attempt. The Staten Island good guy feels he’s out of place for reffing his proper first match and hits the mat for the three count! Unknowing to him, Crimson Stalker has his legs poised on the middle ropes in addition to hooking Deacon’s leg for the pin!

ONE.

TWO.

THREE!

DING DING DING

Lance:
What a count by Jonny! 

Darren Quimbey:
The winner by pinfall… CRIMSON STALKER!!!

Jonny Fastcountini moves in to attempt to raise Stalker’s arm in victory but the Crimson mask wearing monster doesn’t let his arm budge. Meanwhile, Teresa Ames snaps her fingers on the outside and Crimson Stalker immediately stalks away from the fallen Deacon who almost appears to be convulsing on the mat, except his hands and arms, which cover his face. Magdalena rolls under the bottom rope and kneels beside the Deacon, dipping next to his ear to whisper something only he can hear or ever know. We leave to commercials.

YOU CHOOSE AT CONOR'S SCREAMLAND! Only on DEFonDemand!

Lance:
Alright, what’s coming up next?

DDK:
Looks like we’re going to have Arthur Pleasant vs. Nate Eye coming up here in just a few mom—

As DDK speaks though, the lights in the arena go out and the DEF*TRON lights up.

Lance:
Did we forget to pay the bills again?

DDK:
I don’t know, I just hope my paycheck shows up tomorrow.

Then, the opening of ‘Heaven and Hell’ by 20th Century Steel Band rips through the WrestlePlex, just mixed a bit differently.

♫ Children growing, women producing ♫
♫ Men go work and some go stealing ♫
♫ Everyone’s got to make a living ♫

Then the beat from Heaven and Hell by Kanye West takes over as the DEF*TRON starts to produce a bit of static before showing an outline of a name drawn across the width of it. It simply says:

DAVID
NOBLE

At the mere sight of his name, the WrestlePlex erupts.

RAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAH 

Lance:
NO WAY!

DDK:
I must be hallucinating. This can’t be happening.

Except, it is. As Heaven and Hell continues to play through the WrestlePlex, a figure emerges, being lifted through the stage and to the center of the stage. 

At the sight of Noble, the WrestlePlex comes unhinged.

RAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAH 

David stands there, his eyes peering out at the crowd around him as he can feel the energy from every single fan in the WrestlePlex, excited at the sight of the former Southern Heritage Champion.

♫ No more promos, no more photos ♫
♫ No more logos, no more chokehold ♫
♫ We on Bezos, we get payrolls ♫
♫ Trips to Lagos, connect like LEGOs ♫

Behind Noble, who is standing there as the lights come a little bit, a video plays of his greatest hits. His match with Frank Holiday, his fight with Mushigihara, his battles with Dan Ryan. Even though he’s been gone for six years, it all feels like yesterday for everyone in the WrestlePlex.

♫ Make this final, make this, my eyes closed ♫
♫ Burn false idols, Jesus’ disciples ♫
♫ I can feel your pain now, I done bled my vein out ♫
 ♫ New level the game now, simulation changed ♫

David begins to make his way down the ramp, his dark brown hair flowing past his shoulders as he wears a white t-shirt with a black leather jacket over it and a pair of blue jeans. There’s an intensity to David as he walks down the ramp, each step measured and steady as his eyes stare straight ahead.

♫ No more problems, no more argue ♫
♫ No more askin’, “Who really are you?” ♫
♫ I know the real you, you know we feel you ♫
♫ You know He hears you, you know we with you ♫

Noble reaches the end of the ramp and stands there for a brief second, the fans yelling and chanting at his return before he turns to the left and makes his way to the steel steps, slowly climbing them as the music continues to roar through the WrestlePlex.

♫ Straight from Beirut, Chicago, Beirut ♫
♫ You cray? We cray too ♫
♫ You pray? We pray too ♫
♫ Never too late for Him to save you ♫

Noble then stops at the top ring step.

♫ This your movie, ‘cause no one can play you ♫
♫ Devil, lay down, Devil, lay down ♫

David raises his arms as the words echo throughout the arena, moving his fingers like he wants more from the fans, which only intensifies the cheering from the crowd. 

♫ This that level, make devils pay now ♫

As the words explode through the speakers, Noble slams his hands together, causing an eruption of fireworks around the arena and the lights to fully come on. 

BOOM!

David then steps onto the ring apron and into the ring itself, for the first time in six years.

♫ Hold up, no peace, hold up, police ♫
♫ Don’t call police, just stay focused (is on Earth) ♫
♫ Pray for new life, pray for new breath ♫
♫ Hey, Lord, make sure it’s safe for who’s left (Heaven and Hell) ♫

He moves around the ring, looking out at the fans, slamming his right fist against his chest as he yells back at the fans, the adrenaline coursing through his veins.

♫ Know you can’t find a place to rest ♫
♫ Know the Lord my bulletproof vest (is on Earth) ♫
♫ When we survive, know that we blessed ♫
♫ Save my people though the music ♫

Then the music dies down as David Noble stands in the center of the ring. 

*NO-BLE!*
*NO-BLE*
*NO-BLE*

The WrestlePlex had been loud before and this is certainly one of those times to rival those there times. David looks out at the crowd and places his arms on the ring ropes, taking it all in. He slowly lowers his head as the chants become louder with each passing moment.

*NO-BLE!*
*NO-BLE!*
*NO-BLE!*

Nearly every fan is on their feet, cheering him on.

DDK:
To say the WrestlePlex is excited would be an understatement.

Lance:
Without question. It’s truly one of those moments where every single fan in the WrestlePlex will remember and share with their friends as the day that Noble returned.

DDK:
When he left, he was one of the hottest stars and now back, it’s fair to say that the fans have missed having him around.

Lance:
No question. The only question that remains is, why is he back? What is it that has brought him back?

David raises his head and begins to walk around the ring, taking it all in, and feeling the adrenaline as it pumps through his veins. Finally, he is handed a microphone and he makes his way to the center of the ring. He places the microphone to his lips to speak, but the fans chant even louder, causing him to pause.

*NO-BLE!*
*NO-BLE!*
*NO-BLE!*

Noble’s head drops as he hears the chants, feels the fervor from the fans, and then slams his arm across his chest multiple times and lets out a roar.

LET’S GOOOOOOOOO!

The crowd roars back at him with full approval and support. He then lifts the microphone to his lips.

David Noble:
Well, fuck…

As the words leave his mouth, the fans erupt and show their approval.

*NO-BLE!*
*NO-BLE!*
*NO-BLE!*

DDK:
It is nearly impossible to hear myself think in here.

Lance:
I can barely hear you over the roar of these fans.

David looks out at the fans and smiles.

David Noble:
Alright, the bosses in the back are gonna go crazy if I run over my time any further, so we’ve got to get this show on the road. I think it’s fair to say that you missed me?

YEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEAAAAAAAAAAAAAH!

David Noble:
Well, let’s just say the feeling is mutual. Let me just say that the last six years have been some of the longest of my life as I wrestled with my own demons, tried to overcome my own hangups in life, and I wish I could tell you that I stand here today completely changed, fixed, a different person, it would be a lie. The reality is, I’m still the fucked up guy that was here before, eager to take names and put them in the ground, and ready to remind everyone in this building why I’m still one of the best to compete in this ring.

YEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEAAAAAAAAAAAAAH!

David Noble:
Six years ago, I was riding high. I was living the life. I was the Southern Heritage Champion, I was tearing down this very building each and every night. It didn’t matter who I stepped into this ring with. Frank Holiday!

YEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEAAAAAAAAAAAAAH!

David Noble:
Curtis Penn!

BOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!

David Noble:
Dan Ryan!

YEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEAAAAAAAAAAAAAH!

David Noble:
Mushigihara!

DDK:
That match with Mushigara was one of the most violent matches I’ve ever seen, one that Noble had no business winning and he managed to pull it out against the mighty beast.

Lance:
And that match DEFtv 50 with Frank Holiday, for the Southern Heritage Championship, in a ladder match, with the DEF*MAX tournament going on, is still regarded as one of the top matches ever in the history of DEFIANCE.

DDK:
Yeah, that match was intense on a whole other level.

Back in the ring, Noble is smiling and looking out at the fans.

David Noble:
That match with Mushigara was one of the most physical matches of my life. It broke me, not physically, but mentally. After that night, I got into it with management and I couldn’t deal with it anymore. I couldn’t do it every night the way I wanted to and I had to leave. It was one of the most difficult decisions of my life, because I knew I could beat the very best in this ring, but my head wasn’t in the right place to do it. Not without putting everyone else in the ring with me in danger, not without risking my own life. So I had to leave. I did it in the most unprofessional manner ever, but I had to put my mental health first. Still, I apologize.

CLAP! CLAP! CLAP! CLAP! CLAP!

DDK:
Probably one of the things these fans have wondered about, why did Noble leave.

Noble makes his way to the west side of the ring.

David Noble:
But that was then and this is now. Now, I’m ready. Both physically and mentally. I’m ready to drag each and every person back there into this ring and fight until I can’t fight anymore. I’ve come back not to win titles, not to make friends or enemies, but simply because I was born to be in this ring and blow the roof off of it every single time. I don’t care who I have to fight, how many times I have to fight each night, or the obstacles that are thrown in my way. The reality is I don’t care if you’re Conor Fuse or Malak Garland or Lindsay Troy—

YEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEAAAAAAAAAAAAAH!

At the sound of the Queen of the Ring’s name, the fans erupt. Noble chuckles as he makes his way to the other side of the ring. 

David Noble:
Glad some things haven’t changed. [beat] Regardless of the person back there, the Age of Noble has begun. One by one, I don’t care if I have to call you out, chase you out, or make you face me, because the time has come for everyone to see what I’m truly all about. Fight me, beat me, tap me, it doesn’t matter, because each person that steps into the ring with me is leaving a piece of themselves in there simply to make it out to live one more time. You think you’ve seen intense? You think you’ve seen a bulldog inches away from your face, gnashing it’s teeth? You haven’t seen anything yet. Come prepared, every single one of you in the back, because shit just got real.

Noble then drops the microphone onto the mat and exits the ring as Heaven and Hell by Kanye West erupts throughout the WrestlePlex once again. Noble drops down to the arena floor as the fans return to chanting his name. 

*NO-BLE!*
*NO-BLE!*
*NO-BLE!*

Noble makes his way around the ring, his hands out, as he slaps the hands of the fans who have welcomed him back with a warm embrace, making him feel like he never left home.

DDK:
When DEFtv started tonight, never in a million years did I think this man would be stepping out through those curtains, but needless to say, David Noble is back and he is hungry!

Lance:
No joke! He has a fire in his eye that even eclipses the fire he had in his eyes during his last trip. And I have just been informed that next week, Noble will be making his in-ring return. 

DDK:
DEFtv 162, ladies and gentlemen, you won’t want to miss the return of Noble into the ring here at the WrestlePlex. It remains to be seen who his opponent will be, but I pity whomever has to step into the ring with a man that is as focused as he is right now.

Lance:
When you look back at his last run, he was firing on all cylinders. If he truly says he is on that level, both physically and mentally, well, that’s just downright scary.

DDK:
Exactly. I wouldn’t want to be his first opponent back, that’s for sure.

DDK:
We’ve got a grudge match coming up after what happened at Acts of DEFIANCE. Nathan Eye lost to his former mentor in Brazen, Jack Harmen. Dex Joy lost to Arthur Pleasant and in the process, one of our very own officials, Carla Ferrari. The Scourge went two and zero over the Biggest Best Boys but coming up next Nathan Eye is going for payback against Arthur Pleasant himself!

Lance:
Arthur is sleaze personified after what happened. Causing Carla to lose her job and he’s gloated about it. Luckily, Dex Joy is going to be in the corner of his best friend for this match in case the Scourge try anything. Dex has promised to get Carla her job back somehow earlier. When Dex gets mad, you don’t want to push him. 

DDK:
We’ll get to the match now. 

Quimbey:
The following match is for one fall! Introducing from New Orleans, Louisiana weighing in at two-hundred and thirty-five pounds … NAAAAATHHHHANNNNNN EYEEEEEEE!

YOU CAN’T STOP ME!!!

♫ “You Can’t Stop Me” by Andy Mineo ♫

The music and the lights come out … 

…but Nathan Eye does not. 

DDK:
Where’s Nathan? 

Lance:
I don’t know …that’s not like him. Dex Joy was all but sure he was going to be out here earlier after his match with … we'z

The music stops and the DEFIANCE Wrestling Faithful know something is rotten. The music plays a second time. 

YOU CAN’T STOP ME!!!

♫ “You Can’t Stop Me” by Andy Mineo ♫

The intro for Natty Eyce’s theme plays again. Once again there is no response and nobody appearing on stage. The camera goes back to DDK and Lance Warner at the announce booth with Darren having something on camera. 

DDK:
Oh no… 

Lance:
I’ve just received word that Arthur has a camera backstage … I don’t like the sound of this at all. 

Backstage, the scene is the Scourge with Arthur Pleasant and what has become his calling card - his signature taser. In one of the hallways of the arena, Dex Joy has been restrained and looks like he’s seen far better days, having his shirt half ripped off his torso while chained to a wall with Jack Harmen and Aaron King standing over him. 

Dex Joy:
You fucking asshole! 

He tries to free himself, but it’s no use as Arthur already has the taser fired up. 

Arthur Pleasant:
Hey Natty! You know how your stupid song says “you can’t stop me?” Want to test that?

The camera goes back to Nathan Eye on the ground nearby. He’s left on the ground favoring what looks like his arm 

DDK:
Oh, God, what has this lunatic done?

Arthur Pleasant:
You started this, Dex! Carla lost her job fair and square! But I’ll tell you what … in two weeks, if Carla wants her job back … she can fight me instead! If she lasts ten minutes with me in that ring, then I’ll call off the Acts of DEFIANCE stipulation and she gets her job back. But since Carla might be coming back I gotta even things out!

Dex Joy:
You piece of shit! It’s your ass if you do anything to him, you hear me? It’s all your asses!

Arthur turns to face Dex and then stuns him with the taser! 

Arthur Pleasant:
Our asses aren’t the ones you should be worrying about! 

He points to the cameraman. 

Arthur Pleasant:
You better film this or it’s your ass, too. 

The cameraman remains in place as Nathan gets up and throws a right cross at Pleasant! He decks him but Harmen and King quickly brutalize him with stomps before he can do anything else. They grab Nathan’s arm as Arthur grabs hold of a rolling production crate. Arthur motions for his arm to be put against the wall and then he does it … 

SMASH!!!!!!!!

The crate goes barreling and Nathan’s arm and shoulder get crushed against the wall! But once isn’t enough! 

DDK:
Where's security? Someone needs to stop them!!!

Nathan gets the crate smashed into his arm multiple times! When Arthur has had enough, he points to Harmen and King. 

Arthur Pleasant:
That should even things out! Remember Dex! If Carla wants me to drop the stipulation, those are my terms! 

Arthur leaves with the other members of the Scourge while a beaten and half-weary Biggest Boy can’t even help Nathan. Security finally gets to the room and scatters to help the Biggest Best Boy. but the Scourge are long gone by now. 

DDK:
This is so disgusting. 

Lance:
I’m ill almost thinking about this! Who knows what kind of damage was done to Nathan Eye… and what’s worse is Jack Harmen is going to be wrestling for the FIST later tonight. These three could represent DEFIANCE Wrestling if he wins… 

DDK:
That’s chilling. We will try and have an update on Nathan Eye and Dex Joy as soon as we possibly can.

BRAZEN - Where the next generation CLASH!

We open in an empty warehouse and a lone spotlight shining down onto an empty cage. Rusting and scored with age, the large cage sits quiet and empty. The low, somber, decidedly flat tones of a string quartet creep in uninvited. Without warning, as the camera sweeps the cage, a very close, hushed and compressed voice suddenly assaults your senses.

V/O:
So, so many have it all so, so wrong...

We focus on the cage door. A door left ajar.

V/O:
I half wonder if you might be one of them.

Our narrator’s voice is one that won’t take long to annoy. It grates and scrapes.

V/O:
Oh, but you’ve heard all of this before, haven’t you? If you’ve paid any attention, that is… 

Is our narrator sneering? I hear a sneer.

V/O:
You’ve already seen the cage, have you not? If so, I’d surmise that you might know whom it was that once occupied it? Might it be that you’ve seen some of what he has done? Mayhaps you know the names of those that have fallen before him?

Mayhaps.

V/O:
So, so many see an open cage… 

His voice fights to sound british and regal. In both efforts, he fails spectacularly. The string quartet cries to you.

V/O:
...and fear what might have been inside of it. “What was it they set free?”, they ask. Well… lucky you…

Definitely sneering.

V/O:
You already know.

Our camera crawls past the rusted door and into the cage itself. Realization hits--

V/O:
But you’re asking yourself the wrong question, love.

A slow turn around, the camera turns to face the cage door, from the inside-out. A hairy, gnarled hand shoots out and closes the cage from within. We zoom to the red-paint-smeared hand who’s knotted the cage door shut, locking us within. A snarl just off camera, a breath on the neck.

V/O:
Perhaps the right question would be… “What if, instead, we were locked inside with HIM?”

A low, guttural growl. Dark.
Cut to text. Red on black.

Corvo Alpha is coming for DEFtv

V/O:
Oh, but you won’t ever have to worry about that, will you?

Darren Quimbey:
This match is for the FIST of DEFIANCE! Introducing first, the challenger… weighing two-hundred-twenty-four pounds… from Los Angeles, California… The Lunatic… JACK HARMEN!!!

ALL ABOARD!!!

♫ “Idol” by Hollywood Undead feat Tech N9ne ♫

Jeer everywhere as the legend slowly walks out on stage surveying his surroundings. Jack Harmen sports his normal wrestling gear and a rather clever look on his face, like he knows the outcome of this match already… or something more.

DDK:
Harmen’s last FIST shot was years ago, in an absolute WAR with Cayle Murray!

Lance:
Yes, indeed. I remember it well. One of DEFIANCE’s best matches of its era. February 4th, 2018, ACTS of DEFIANCE. Seems like ages ago.

DDK:
Almost four years…

Harmen approaches the apron and rolls inside the ring. He calmly rests at a turnbuckle and awaits the champion’s newer theme song to replace the new Harmen music.

♫ “Dare to Tame Me” by TRIDDANA ♫

The FIST walks out, wearing a kilt designed after his ring tights and the title belt on his waist. Blackwood is typically not into theratics and tonight is no exception. He power-walks down the ramp and gives little acknowledgement to the fanbase, even though he receives cheers from them.

DDK:
Talking about ACTS, ACTS of DEFIANCE 2021 saw Gage Blackwood pull out the victory against Oscar Burns in one of the best wrestling matches in DEFIANCE history. Right up there with Murray vs. Harmen, although that one was much more of a blood feud.

Lance:
A UTA invasion will do that to you.

Blackwood similarly rolls into the middle of the ring, clips off his kilt and hands it and the FIST to referee Mark Shields. Shields looks at Blackwood with bewilderment.

Mark Shields:
What the fuck do I do with this stuff?

Blackwood has a facial expression suggesting Mark should figure it out or Gage will beat the piss outta him. Suddenly, a lightbulb goes off in the referee’s head. He walks the kilt and belt to the time keeper and calls for the bell.

DING DING

Blackwood shrugs at Harmen, in regards to Shields’ erratic behaviour.

Gage Blackwood: [muttering]
Probably high.

Harmen simply replies with a sadistic grin and the two men charge each other. They lock up but Harmen knows not to get into a test of strength with Gage. Although both wrestlers are the same size, Blackwood is likely to hit a lot harder and move with a lot more force than the former highest flyer in the business. Instead, Harmen anchors across Blackwood’s waist and pushes the Scot forward, into the ropes. Harmen leaps in the air and catches Blackwood under the jaw with a thrust kick. This stuns the champion, he’s into the ropes himself but Gage drops to the mat and pops up the second Jack hops over him. Blackwood grabs Harmen by his hair and throws the legend to the mat.

DDK:
Rather a Jack Harmen tactic there if I say so myself…

Lance:
Yes. Nothing too noble about that one but Gage is going to let it fly, that’s for sure.

Blackwood grins sadistically this time as he pulls Harmen to his feet and blasts the former fWo World Champion across the jaw with a stiff forearm shot. Again. Again. Gage works Harmen into a corner and then hurls Jack into the buckle across the way. The Lunatic, however, stops in his tracks RIGHT before reaching the buckle. He sees Blackwood coming and Harmen throws his elbow up. Gage runs right into it, checking his teeth after to make sure they’re all there. The challenger follows with a leg sweep and a DDT.

Then a springboard splash.

DDK:
Not many people can mix up their style so well but when you’re a twenty-five year vet and you’re not the fastest man in the land anymore, you’ve got to wrestle smarter.

Lance:
It’s a good mix by Harmen, that’s for sure.

Harmen lifts Blackwood and performs a snap suplex. Harmen floats over, raises both of them off the mat again but a second snap suplex is blocked. Blackwood connects with an elbow on Harmen, hits the ropes and missile dropkicks a knee out from under the challenger. Harmen shouts and holds his knee yet also has a look on his face as if he enjoyed it. Blackwood goes back to work, pumping left forearm shots into Harmen’s skull and then positioning Jack for a suplex of his own…

Harmen escapes. He bounces off the ropes and stops short of another Blackwood forearm.

DDK:
Pretty sure Harmen just raked Blackwood’s eyes!

He did. This is followed up with a corkscrew suplex and then a cartwheeled elbow drop (not performed from the top role as Jack Harmen is typically known for). Harmen hooks the leg…

ONE.

TWO- SHOULDER UP.

But has a lot more work to do.

Jack nods to himself. He slowly takes Gage by the champion’s long ratty brown hair and drives Gage’s face into a turnbuckle pad. Then does it ten more times for shits and giggles. (Well, he’s laughing, hopefully not doing the other thing but who knows.)

Blackwood wobbles around, looking to be put out of his misery. This is when Jack Harmen breaks out the quickness. Harmen hits the ropes with force but on the return Blackwood catches the challenger and nails a ring-shaking powerslam!

DDK:
Great counter! And for Jack Harmen, the time he breaks it out, going full force, it’s to his disadvantage!

The Faithful come alive as Blackwood positions Harmen into his Soul Breaker sleeper! Not to be outdone, however, Harmen shows he’s not always a lunatic without a plan.

Jawbreaker.

DDK:
Well scouted!

Lance:
You’d have to think Jack Harmen watched ACTS of DEFIANCE’s main event because that’s exactly what Oscar Burns did.

DDK:
When you think about it, the jawbreaker can be seen as a generic counter to any sleeper hold. The key, however, is hitting it FAST or else you’re done.

Lance:
And your leg positioning has to be solid. Jack’s was.

Both men are down but Harmen is up to his feet first with use of the ropes. Blackwood’s up afterwards but walks right into a dragon sleeper!

Jawbreaker!?

No!

Blackwood can’t drop off his feet. Instead, Jack Harmen is pulling Blackwood off the ground as he has the hold locked in, although the challenger has no intention of putting the FIST to sleep.

Dragon suplex.

DDK:
Blackwood lands on the back of his neck!

Harmen drags the champion upwards. Gage tries to escape but the crafty vet knows what he’s doing. He hooks Blackwood’s leg and performs a modified FlyerDriver!

DDK:
We might see the legend do this! PIN!

ONE.

TWO.

BARELY A SHOULDER!

The fans give into that one while Jack Harmen racks his own face. The Lunatic runs into the ropes, trying for the yakuza kick…

SWOOSH.

Blackwood with an exploder suplex!

DDK:
This time it’s Harmen who lands on the back of his neck!

The fans stomp their feet, seeing who will be the first to snatch the momentum. Blackwood puts boots to Harmen’s chest before lifting the challenger up and looking for The Midlothian Hangover.

Thump.

DDK:
He hits it!

ONE.

TWO.

SOLID KICKOUT!

Shock covers Blackwood’s face but it’s replaced by a slight smile, knowing there’s more fighting to be had. Gage drags Jack to his feet but The Lunatic looks for another rake to the eyes. This time, though, Blackwood grabs Harmen’s hand before it meets his face and plys Jack’s fingers apart from one another. The ‘high flyer’ screams into the rafters, trying to break feet but Blackwood lowers his base and swoops in.

Olympic slam.

ONE.

TWO.

SHOULDER.

DDK:
Gage is getting closer!

The legend is reeling. Blackwood grabs Harmen and performs a hammer throw! The Lunatic’s head bounces off the mat as Blackwood bounces into the ropes himself.

DDK:
Gaelic Storm- no! Harmen moves at the last possible second!

But Gage was waiting for him.

A roundhouse kick connects right as Jack turns to see where the champion went. Another roundhouse kick lands when Jack doesn’t want to stay down. A hammer throw transpires when, you guessed it, Jack refuses to remain on the canvas! The Scottish Trinity of suplexes follows when Jack, of course, keeps on coming.

Snap suplex, hanging suplex, rolling release suplex. Harmen’s on the ropes, literally. Hanging on for dear life.

Cold Snow.

DDK:
Wow! Harmen with a desperation move to Gage! Both men are down!

Lance:
I’m not sure how much The Lunatic has left in him.

Sure enough, the FIST is up first. He’s wobbly, slightly pissed off he walked into the specialized neck hook implant DDT but nonetheless, Gage is ready to take the tide back in the match. He hurls Harmen into the turnbuckle and bursts in with a high angle dropkick. Harmen stumbles out of the corner, Blackwood hits the ropes, Harmen sidesteps again thinking Gage was going for the Gaelic Storm even though he wasn’t…

Blackwood hits Harmen with an inverted suplex and then the stiff-as-shit missile dropkick to the face, The Royal Tattoo.

DDK:
Harmen’s lights are OUT.

Gaelic Storm follows.

ONE.

TWO.

THREE.

Harmen raises a weak shoulder… a millisecond too late. The bell sounds and the fans erupt.

DING DING DING

Darren Quimbey:
The winner of this match AND STILL FIST of DEFIANCE… THE NOBLE RAIDER… GAGE BLACKWOOOOOOOOD!

DDK:
A good fight by Jack Harmen but Gage Blackwood proves to be too much on this night.

Blackwood rolls to a corner and nods at the fallen ‘high flyer’ before referee Mark Shields places the title across Blackwood’s right shoulder. Gage’s theme song plays as the fans cheer. The FIST of DEFIANCE uses the turnbuckle pad to help him up and then Blackwood rubs the side of his head, checking to see if his trademark scar had opened up in the contest. However, to Blackwood’s surprise his hand doesn’t have any reminisce of blood on it.

Gage moves to the center of the ring, drops the title from his shoulder and starts to place it around his waist.

His theme music abruptly ends.

DDK:
What’s going on here?

Lance:
I believe Gage has a visitor...

Indeed, Tyler Fuse walks down the rampway without a theme. He sports black jeans and a plain black t-shirt, resemblant of how Gage would typically dress when he’s not wrestling (done either by purpose or happenstance). Tyler stoically marches towards ringside and over to the time keeper’s table, picking up a microphone. Inside the squared circle, the champion doesn’t look thrilled, since his victory was interrupted.

Tyler enters the ring, up the stairs and through the top and middle rope. The former Tag Team Champion tells Mark Shields to leave the ring and makes an off comment about there being “lines of blow” backstage for him. Despite Tyler’s sarcastic and insincere demeanor, Mark’s too stupid to realize it and takes Tyler literally. Shields gives a “fuck ya”, running out of the ring, excited to get high since the night is finally over.

Blackwood eyes the former Fuse Bros. Tyler simply smiles and gives a wink before Gage starts mouthing off to him.

Gage Blackwood: [off-mic]
What do you want? Ya want a match? Aye, all you have to do is ask-

Tyler snickers, shaking his head no.

Gage Blackwood: [off-mic]
Well then get on with it. What do you want?

But Tyler won’t give in to Blackwood. Instead, Fuse plays his own game. Tyler strolls around the ring, mic in hand, smug look on his face. Blackwood has strapped the FIST to his waist and continues to grow inpatient.

Lance:
I figure this is exactly what Tyler wants. Stir Blackwood up. It’s easy to do.

Tyler wanders around the ring in circles. Finally, he turns to the FIST on his terms.

Tyler Fuse:
I have a prophecy for you, Gage.

The Scot’s already had enough. He asks for his own microphone.

Gage Blackwood:
Aye, Tyler. Ya told me of a prophecy last year around this time. Then a guy attacked me with a screwdriver… but that one didn’t really work out, did it?

Tyler scratches the side of his head, with a facial expression suggesting Gage “has him there”.

Tyler Fuse:
This one… is different.

DDK:
Business, as they say, is about to pick up…

Suddenly, Reapers march down the ramp. Many of them, all in black, around the same height and weight. The champion readies for a fight but when the reapers approach the apron, they position themselves all around the ring instead. They do not enter.

Tyler Fuse:
Don’t worry, they, or I, won’t touch you.

Blackwood rolls his eyes, continuing to suggest Tyler gets on with things.

Gage Blackwood:
If you want a title shot-

Tyler raises his hands.

Tyler Fuse:
No. Oh god no, I don’t want a title shot at all…

And the elder Fuse simply stands there, reapers all around. Nothing more is said… but with each passing second, Blackwood’s anger slowly rolls over him. His thick, Scottish accent takes over, to the point some of his words aren’t recognizable because he speaks with such conviction.

Gage Blackwood:
Crakin’ collection o’ baw jugglers there. Ah kin tak’ ye a’ doon wi’ a few knees.

Tyler leans in a corner.

DDK:
You’d have to think Gage is a little more on edge, coming off this hard fought victory and the ACTS of DEFIANCE war with Oscar Burns…

The FIST of DEFIANCE puts his arms up, as if inviting Tyler or any of the reapers to take him on. Except no one moves.

Lance:
I haven’t understood Tyler Fuse’s behaviour for some time now.

There’s a minute stand-off between both parties. The Faithful cheer for Gage but the reapers and Tyler continue to be complacent. Then, Tyler simply drops the mic, causally exits the ring and splits the reaper gauntlet. He walks up the ramp to which he came while Blackwood moves to the edge of the ring and shouts in Tyler’s direction.

Gage Blackwood:
Tak’ it tae th’ back. Pack it up, jog on. You’re skint anyway, Tyler. I knew you never had it in… you…

The Faithful see a reaper on the outside rise from the pack. The masked combatant enters the ring and positions themselves behind the FIST of DEFIANCE. By now, Gage has caught on. He knows he’s not alone. However, the reaper doesn’t attack Gage. Instead, this reaper is waiting for Blackwood to turn around. Gage does. The reaper removes their mask.

BBBBBOOOOOOOOOOOOOO.

Teresa Ames.

DDK:
Figures!

Blackwood’s “ex-wife” cackles at the champion.

Teresa Ames:
Honey, how have you been?

Blackwood was semi-angry before. By his facial expressions, he’s about to go on full rage mode…

Until.

DDK:
WHAT THE HELL!?

Through the confusion, Crimson Stalker slides into the ring from under the bottom ropes. The cackling madness of Teresa Ames is enough of a distraction for Gage Blackwood as Jason Reeves reaches for the strap of the title belt! Yanking it loose with a deft pull, Blackwood spins around in anger with a closed fist. Crimson Stalker DUCKS the flailing shot and with a CRACKING THUD, uses the FIST championship to slam it into the face of Gage Blackwood!

Teresa bellows in horrific laughter once more as Crimson Stalker’s stoic mask is beating heavily against his face. Like a predator standing over his caught prey, Jason Reeves looks to continue this beating further as he stands over the knocked out Gage Blackwood.

Teresa Ames:
IT’S HIM! HE’S THE ONE RESPONSIBLE!!

Crimson Stalker’s face snaps up and looks at Teresa Ames, his eyes flush with life for a moment. Stalker cracks his neck before dropping the belt on the lifeless Gage Blackwood. DEFSec is rushing towards the ring as Crimson Stalker’s control seems to be lost to Teresa for a brief moment. Clapping her hands and whistling, Crimson Stalker stops in place. His attention turns to DEFSec who have entered the ring.

DDK:
Glad DEFSec came out here because I think Stalker’s leash was about to be broken and that wouldn’t have been good for anyone!

The reapers leave ringside, allowing for the medics to check on Gage and insure nothing further takes place. Meanwhile, Teresa Ames and Crimson Stalker have moved to the side of the ring. With Blackwood motionless, Crimson Stalker simply stands there, eyes fixated on Gage, breathing heavily.

DDK:
I guess Gage’s next challenger has made his mark.

Lance:
Yes but were all these theatrics needed? Tyler comes out, reapers come out, Ames comes out, then Stalker?

DDK:
You know these guys are unstable.

DEFtv goes to commercial as Teresa Ames nods to Crimson Stalker it’s their time to leave, too.

Subscribe to DEFonDEMAND today! DEFY CABLE!

We’re at the announce booth. The buzz is dissipating around the arena, with nothing but the crowd’s general bustle filling the air. Keebler smiles as he looks down the lens.

DDK:
Well folks, the night here is just beginning to wind down and on an evening that’s seen Lindsay Troy and Alvaro de Vargas go to a double countout, the FIST of DEFIANCE Gage Blackwood defend the belt against Jack Harmen, the return of David Noble and more, it’s safe to say night two has some catching up to do.

Lance:
No lies, Keebs. No lies. It’s been a crazy ri--

DDK: [pressing his earpiece]
Sorry, Lance. Hold on…

Keebs raises a hand, keeping his broadcast partner at bay.

DDK:
I’m being told of some kind of disturbance…

Sure enough, the noise in the building starts to swell again. Some of it sounds like booing - but it’s mostly confusion.

Lance:
What’s going on?!

The cameras swing around to the apparent source of the ruckus. Someone is making their way through the Faithful, though the ticket-buying public is so swarmed and bunched together that it’s impossible to figure out who it is.

DDK:
I can’t make it out, Lance.

Lance:
Me neither…

The interloper draws closer and closer to the ring. Reaching the arena floor, they head towards a break in the crowd. The folded steel chair in the hand is visible first, then the blue jeans, black tee, and hair held back by an Alice band.

The Faithful have figured it out.

BOOOOOOOOOOO!

DDK:
Oh, no.

And so have the commentators.

Lance:
Come on, what’s he doing here?!

DDK:
It’s Cayle Murray! Cayle Murray is… back?

The former FIST hops the barricade and wastes no time whatsoever in walking over to where Darren Quimbey sits, impatiently snatching a microphone from his clutches before rolling into the ring. Choosing not to acknowledge the audience’s vitriol (yet), he unfolds the chair right in the middle, sitting himself down on it.

Cayle Murray:
Good evening dickheads.

BOOOOOOOOOOO!

The response is predictable. Murray rolls his eyes at it.

DDK:
We haven’t seen Murray since Maximum DEFIANCE!

Lance:
Yeah, when 24K got booted all the way out of DEFIANCE!

Cayle Murray:
Yeah, yeah. Get it over with. I literally have all night.

Lance:
I don’t. I’d rather wash my eyes with Carolina Reaper sauce than endure THIS!

Having sat through a whole show, The Faithful are clearly in no mood for whatever Cayle has up his sleeve. They keep jeering as the Scot taps his wrist where a watch should be, feigns a yawn, and folds his arms across his chest. This lasts for about 10 seconds before he raises the microphone again.

Cayle Murray:
Right, so, listen up…

The crowd flares up again. This time, Murray throws his arms down by his side.

DDK:
I don’t think they’re going to cooperate, Lance.

Cayle Murray: [standing up quickly]
I said “listen up” you SLUGS. I don’t want to be here any more than you want me to be here, but I have to be here for now. Bet you thought I’d fucked off after Maximum DEFIANCE, right? Bet you thought I’d vanished in the piss tsunami Burns, Harvey, Deacon, and that useless human haggis cosplay Blackwood inflicted on us. Jesse? James? Mikey? Gone. All of them.

Lance:
And DEFIANCE is better for it!

Cayle Murray:
24K lost. We split. It’s over. We--

A chant breaks out and quickly spreads around the building.

LOOOOOOOO-SER!
LOOOOOOOO-SER!
LOOOOOOOO-SER!

Again, Cayle tries to palm it off. His tightening facial expression shows that it’s getting to him, though. His face grows a little redder with every passing second.

Cayle Murray:
If I have to stand here all night, I will!

But the crowd doesn’t quiet down. Countering this, Murray raises his decibel.

Cayle Murray: [shouting]
The only reason I’m out here tonight, scumbags, is simple. DEFIANCE won’t let me go. Kendrix, Perfection, Mikey… they only had a couple of months left on their deals after Maximum DEFIANCE, so “fine,” said the powers that be. Off you fuck. Me? Turns out I should’ve hired a better lawyer, because it turns out my contract’s watertight. They won’t let me go! They’ve been paying me to sit at home doing nothing for four stinking months, and I’m sick of it! I can’t go out and work anywhere also because whatever fanny that runs this place these days won’t let-- HEY!

Something catches Murray’s attendance. It’s a DEFIANCE security guard looking to enter the ring.

Cayle Murray:
I work here, Tweedle Dipshit. Unless you’re about to hand me my release, back off.

Another security guard, clearly his senior, approaches the encroacher and prevents him from intervening.

DDK:
Cayle Murray and DEFIANCE are in a contract dispute?

Lance:
Yeesh, if I was the administration, I’d want to get this creep off my books immediately…

Cayle Murray:
So here’s the deal, slugs.

Murray sits back down on the chair.

Cayle Murray:
This is my show now. DEFtv 161 belongs to me. I’m not leaving this disgusting, sweaty pit of a building until somebody comes down here and lets me out. I’ve had enough of emails, phone calls, texts, whatever. This is where we’re at, now. This is what we’re doing.

Lance:
Is he… holding the show hostage?!

The jeers rise up again.

Cayle Murray:
Yes, boo! Boo the useless bloody management until one of them comes down here and sorts this out.

DDK:
Uhh, Cayle might not want to look to his left. I think those security guards are calling for help…

Indeed, the senior guard is chatting something down his walkie-talkie.

Cayle Murray:
I don’t care who it is! Wheel out Eric Dane’s gnarled corpse for all I care! Kelly Evans, is she still a thing? What about you, Keebler? You’re older than time itself! You must have some sway here by now…

Perhaps summoned via walkie-talkie, a larger group of security guards starts coming down the ramp. There’s about a half-dozen of them. The two that were already ringside take up position at the bottom of the ramp.

Cayle Murray:
Oh, good. Here they come. Look, dorks, unless one of you has executive clearance, it’d be awfully nice if you’d just fuck off.

DDK:
I don’t think that’s going to happen.

Lance:
I’d forgotten how much I hate the sound of this guy’s voice, Keebs. That whiny Scottish accent…

DDK:
Fortunately, it looks like he’s about to be escorted the heck out of here.

In a perfect world, that’s exactly what would happen.

All the big beefy DEFSec bois would get in the ring, pull Cayle Murray kicking and screaming from it, and haul his ass back through the crowd. The Faithful would laugh and jeer, throw the remainder of their popcorn and beer on him, and have a grand ol’ time uploading the footage to social media to go viral.

This isn’t a perfect world, however.

And that’s OK.

Because what the Faithful get instead is a leather jacketed buzzsaw shooting out from behind the curtain like a murder missile, and the crowd goes ballistic.

DDK:
Lindsay Troy! Lindsay Troy making a beeline for the ring!

Lance:
Ohhh she’s wanted a piece of Cayle Murray for months, Darren, and it looks like she’s going to get it!

DEFSec doesn’t even bother to try and hold the Queen of the Ring back; they simply part down the middle and let her through. Cayle looks terrified at what’s coming at him, and as soon as Troy slides under the bottom rope and dashes toward him, he books it out of there and leaps back into the relative safety of the crowd.

Troy stomps around the ring, fired up and furious. She swipes Cayle’s discarded microphone off the mat and snarls into it.

Lindsay Troy:
Oh no no no no no….you don’t get to fuck off back to the hinterlands that easily, you little shit.

RAAAAAAAAAAH!

DDK:
Lindsay Troy is heated, and who can blame her?

Lance:
She’s been looking for payback ever since Cayle’s cheap win in their match at this year's DEFCON. I don’t know if he’s been paying attention to DEFIANCE television as of late, but this isn’t the same LT he faced back in April.

She storms over to the corner closest to where the Starbreaker made his escape and scales the turnbuckles. Cayle has hightailed it to the back bleachers but he snaps his head around when Troy yells his name out.

Lindsay Troy: [grinning sadistically]
I’ve been impatiently waiting for you to get back here, Squidboy, and you not learning from your brother’s mistakes when it comes to lawyers doesn’t mean dick to me.

She points between the two of them, her intent growing more malicious with each passing second.

Lindsay Troy:
You and I are gonna dance again, Cayle, real real soon, because this is MY show. Not yours. Not the Cayle Murray Whine-a-Thon. It’s the Lindsay Troy Fuck-You-Up-a-Thon, and I’ve been collecting heads for tithes for a couple months now. It’s long past time for you to pay up, lad, and I’m gonna come knocking at DEFIANCE ROAD.

The Faithful erupt at the announcement. Cayle shakes his head “NO” emphatically.

Lance:
The Queen versus the Starbreaker Part 2? Sign me right up!

Troy nods her head, ignoring Murray’s protestations.

Lindsay Troy:
Oh it’s happening, Cayle. Favoured Saints wants you to show up to work and show up to work you shall. I’ll see you at the pay-per-view, Squidboy...

She pauses. And sneers.

Lindsay Troy:
...inside the WARCHAMBER.

Cayle’s not just shaking his head “NO” now; he’s screaming his bloody head off. Once again, the fans are far too loud and far too ecstatic to hear him but anyone who can read lips can clearly make out the string of curses that flies from then Scot’s mouth, including a very pointed directive for the Queen of the Ring to go fuck herself.

DDK:
Oh my good Lord in heaven, Lance, this is going to be a massacre.

Lance:
The first WARCHAMBER five years ago was not for the faint of heart or weak of stomach, and Lindsay Troy knows that better than anyone. She and Bronson Box damn near beat each other to death. It's where the Queen gave the Wargod that infamous scar down his right eye.

DDK:
We’ll have more to come on this major challenge but we are absolutely out of time. For Lance Warner, I’m “Downtown” Darren Keebler, we’ll see you tomorrow night for DEFtv 161 Night 2!

The night comes to a close on a split screen of Cayle Murray having a meltdown in the crowd before storming off and Lindsay Troy trash-talking him from inside the ring.

THIS

IS

DEFIANCE.