Vengeance - January 12th, 2022 - St. Louis, Missouri

The pyro goes off from all around the entrance ramp and stage as the crowd is absolutely electric here tonight. A full sell out of over 19,000 are on their feet cheering wildly. A “WLCW” chant breaks out as the pyro finally dies down and there’s a bit of silence, no commentary, no music playing or anything. The crowd doesn’t care as they continue to cheer wildly. The very familiar entrance music with tires screeching and the sound of a car wreck plays and the crowd somehow cheers even louder as Mick Foley makes his way out to the entrance ramp. He doesn’t go down to the ring, he stays at the top of the ramp - a huge smile across his face, his music fades and the crowd just continually never stops cheering.

MICK FOLEY: Wow…thank you so much, St. Louis.

A round of loud applause as the cheering finally starts to fade a bit before Foley continues.

MICK FOLEY: It’s hard to believe we are here tonight with a show like this. Some of the best professional wrestlers from all over the planet are all in one place for the first time in a very very long time. I’m not going to come out here and bore you all with a story of how this is a moment in time few of us are never going to forget. Let’s get this night started off right. You guys ready to see some triple threat action!?

The crowd cheers as they know exactly which match he’s talking about.

MICK FOLEY: That’s right, we’re going to kick off tonight with Braun Strowman, Eddie Kingston and Bron Breakker! Three of the most talented competitors we have here in WLCW. What those three in the back don’t know is that their match tonight will crown WLCW’s first ever championship!

The crowd is taken back and erupts with a loud cheer.

MICK FOLEY: That’s right! Tonight’s opening match will decide the WLCW X Division Championship! The X Division Championship will be the gateway to bigger and better things for anyone who holds it. Win that championship and defend the title successfully four consecutive times and you’ll be able to cash in that title for a championship match of your choosing. The X Division Championship will then be vacated and moved to another division whether it be tag team or the women’s division. So, to be blunt, this is a huge opportunity for these three men tonight!

The crowd cheers wildly at this surprise.

MICK FOLEY: I think you’ve all had enough of me out here tonight, so I’m going to go to the back and enjoy the show. Those of you watching from home will have Mauro Ranallo and Pat McAfee with you and those of you lucky enough to be here tonight will get to witness history in person. Thank you to everyone who made tonight possible and remember everyone…have a nice day!

Foley’s music plays him out as he walks back through the curtain into the backstage area. The music changes to the main Vengeance theme as we are treated to a shot of Ranallo and McAfee now.

MAURO RANALLO: Absolutely huge news from our General Manager, Mick Foley. Tonight’s opening contest is going to be a match for the X Division Championship!

PAT MCAFEE: I love it and I love WLCW! This place is the quintessential home for professional wrestling now and I can’t wait to see what’s in store tonight! We have an incredible card top to bottom!

MAURO RANALLO: Indeed we do, Brock Lesnar and Lance Storm will be in action as well as The Wingmen against Happy Corbin and Madcap Moss.

PAT MCAFEE: Don’t forget the women’s division, which is gonna hit the ground running tonight with a huge triple threat and tag team match!

MAURO RANALLO: Just an absolute monster debut show for you all tonight live from St. Louis. Whatta ya say, Pat? You ready to get this one started?

PAT MCAFEE: I have been ready for weeks! Let’s do this!

---

The opening match in WLCW history sees three very different, yet almost similar styles of wrestlers standing in the ring. Bron Breakker has been considered the potential future of professional wrestling. A juggernaut of a man with a storied lineage and history in the business. He’s there to do his family and more so, himself proud tonight. This is the first step in one of many steps for him tonight. Braun Strowman is a man who has seen his fair share of success in the last five to six years. Likely could be considered a good representation of the “now” era of wrestling. A giant of a man who eventually left the world he loved for a while to pursue a completely different path. The path of high end cooking. Now he’s back to prove to himself that he still belongs among the elite. Then there’s Eddie Kingston. A man with a decorated past, his fair share of ups and downs and an intensity like no other. Eddie Kingston doesn’t care about how big or small or even how many people he has to fight on any given night. He’s always ready, but even he wasn’t likely prepared for an impromptu championship match tonight. These three are all relative fan favorites. The crowd could be described as split down the middle in three ways with each competitor getting a good amount of cheers as they made their way to the ring. Now they’re all standing in their respective corners, ready to get this one started and crown WLCW’s first champion. The bell sounds, the crowd erupts and we are underway!

PAT MCAFEE: This is it! We are official! World League Championship Wrestling, congratulations!

MAURO RANALLO: A historic moment with these three in the ring! Absolutely incredible!

Referee Charles Robinson motions for the men to start and they start to all three circle one another. No one wanting to make the first move and potentially leave themselves vulnerable. Breakker is the first to go in, right after Kingston. A smart move considering his alternative. The Mad King is ready and fighting back the attempted grapple with punches. Bron can’t get a good grip on him, but by the time he has, Strowman is there to intercept. He grabs the two by the back of their heads and smashes them together! Breakker stumbles back into the ropes but Kingston just seems annoyed and a little pissed by that. Eddie presses his head into the giant’s chest trying to push him backwards. Strowman seems more confused that anything. Kingston pulls back and reaches up, poking Braun in the eyes! The crowd chuckles and then cheers. Eddie grabs the giant man from behind and rushes him chest first into the turnbuckle. Breakker comes rushing in to hit them both, Eddie moves though and Bron winds up just splashing Strowman into the corner once again chest first. Bron stumbles back and is grabbed by Kingston. He’s whipped back quickly for a dragon suplex, pinning the young man’s arms up near his head. Eddie is up and talking smack to the young Steiner, as he does that though he’s grabbed from behind. Eddie’s eyes grow wide and the crowd murmurs with anticipation as Strowman has him and is angered. He lifts Eddie up for a press slam and holds him in the air for a few seconds before finally slamming him down with a huge thud! Strowman throws his hands up and the crowd applauds their appreciation back at him.

MAURO RANALLO: Strowman is slicing and dicing them up!

PAT MCAFEE: More cooking puns!

MAURO RANALLO: He’s roasting them like a nice vegetable platter at Christmas!

PAT MCAFEE: A Christmas vegetable platter!? I think I’ll pass on the Ranallo Christmas next year.

MAURO RANALLO: Your loss!

Kingston rolls out of the ring after getting slammed. Now Strowman turns his attention to Bron Breakker. He helps him back to his feet but Bron is quick to counter it. A kick to the stomach and then another direct shot to the breadbasket. Braun is doubled over and grabbed around the head by Bron. He whips him into the corner again. The giant hits the turnbuckles and comes stumbling out. Bron is off the ropes behind him, jumping up - very high - and grabbing Braun from behind, driving his skull into the mat for a bulldog! A pin attempt! 1…2..no! Braun kicks out! Bron lifts Braun back to his feet as this will determine the best way to spell that name. Breakker has the staggered Strowman by the back of the head. He pulls Braun’s head back a bit and drops a huge blow right across the giant’s chest…and then another…and another, taking Strowman down to one knee. He bounces off the opposite ropes and comes in for a clothesline but he’s cut short by a spear from the returning Eddie Kingston! Both men crash into the mat! Kingston is on top of him now raining lefts and rights down. Again though, Kingston is grabbed from behind by Strowman, but Eddie is able to break free. A few punches to the midsection, but it seems to not waver the chef. Before Braun can grab Eddie, he’s grabbed from behind again, but this time by Breakker. He pulls Eddie head back towards him looking for a reverse DDT, but Strowman comes running in bringing his arm over Kingston’s chin and face, hitting Bron with a clothesline and taking both men down to the mat temporarily. Kingston gets back to his feet quickly and drives a shoulder into Strowman, knocking him out of the ring completely.

MAURO RANALLO: This action is fast and furious save for the fast cars and convoluted plot and dialogue!

PAT MCAFEE: Kingston may be the smallest guy in there but I’m willing to argue he’s got the most fight in him of any of the three!

Kingston looks over the top rope at the downed Strowman before turning his attention back to Breakker. Bron is struggling to get to his feet, so Eddie helps him and then a loud smack as a chop goes right across the young star’s chest. Then another…and another…and one more food measure. A bright red hue is in place of where the skin colored chest used to be on Breakker as Kingston seems to be enjoying himself. He has Bron pushed back near the turnbuckle but as Eddie admires his work, Bron grabs him by his singlet and pulls him towards the turnbuckle, ducking as Kingston goes flying over him face first into the corner, knocking him to the mat. Strowman is back in the ring though and going for Bron. Breakker sees him coming though and ducks under. Strowman catches himself on the ropes before hitting them, but right as he does, he’s grabbed from behind. Breakker is gonna go for a german suplex on the big man. This may be unwise! He lifts him up, Braun tries to grab at the ropes but can’t reach them as Breakker extends him over and drives Strowman into the mat! The crowd goes wild with that. Strowman rolls face down grabbing at his back and that’s the opening Bron was looking for as he gives one swift kick to Strowman’s lower back and then mounts him locking in the Steiner Recliner! The crowd cheers wildly as Bron has it locked in right in the middle of the ring! Charles Robinson is looking for a tapout and asking Strowman if he’s all right! Strowman refuses to give up and starts crawling towards the ropes! He reaches and is almost there, just centimeters away from his fingers! Breakker stands up quickly and drives another boot in Strowman’s back before pulling him to the middle of the ring and locking it in again! He’s got him now! Strowman looks like he’s gonna tap out! Backfist to the future out of nowhere right across Breakker’s face! He’s knocked down to the mat and off of Strowman! Eddie doesn’t have time to think and pins Breakker, but he’s too close to the ropes! His leg is dangling over the edge of the ring! Eddie demands Charles Robinson count but he shows he can’t in this situation! Eddie runs over and pins Strowman instead. 1…2…3! NO! He kicked out! At 2.9999! Eddie is beside himself arguing that count but it’s not going to change. Eddie goes back over to Breakker and picks him back up to his feet. Before he can, Bron rolls him up in a small package! 1..2…NO! Eddie barely gets out of it! Breakker, Kingston and Strowman all struggle back to their feet with Eddie getting there first. He rushes towards Breakker again who ducks and hoists Eddie up and over the top rope with a back bodydrop! Eddie crashes to the floor below! Strowman grabs Breakker and lifts him up on his shoulder, turning and driving him into the mat with a Running Powerslam! He goes for the pin! 1…2…3! New champion!

---

JUSTIN ROBERTS: Your winner and NEWWWWWW X Division champion, Braun Strowman!

PAT MCAFEE: What a match! What a finish! The master chef has done it!

MAURO RANALLO: That match could have gone about ninety different ways there at the end! Braun Strowman is your new WLCW X Division champion though! Four title defenses and he’ll have himself a title match of his choosing!

PAT MCAFEE: If this is the future of WLCW, I can’t wait! I’m out of breath, Mauro!

We cut to somewhere backstage at Vengeance, we see Hikari Noa contemplating a few items which perhaps might serve her well. A ladder, a few folding chairs, even a sledgehammer! She lifts up this last item and ponders it with wide, excited eyes that bely some of the inner workings of her mind. Hikari hefts the tool, tests its weight and even practices a few swings. Judging by the happy smile on her face she’s clearly pleased with its destructive potential. Just as she lowers the sledgehammer, a pair of women step into view.

One is Misao bedecked in her regal attire including a dramatic black cape. The silver-haired Konami follows behind her, dressed in butler’s attire as usual. Misao doesn’t seem to notice Hikari at first, but she stops a few paces beyond the Deathmatch Princess. Hikari’s brow furrows as she wonders what this woman could want with her. After a tense moment, Misao steps in front of HIkari and stares intensely at her. There’s no emotion on the Rose Queen’s face, but we get the feeling she’s looking deep into Hikari’s soul.

Konami notices the object of her mistress’ interest and steps forward as well. She holds out a single red rose to Misao, but Misao waves her off. Hikari is even more puzzled, but she puffs out her chest and glares intensely right back into Misao’s eyes. Their faces are mere centimeters apart and each of the women refuses to flinch in the face of such a challenge. After a long few moments, Misao steps back and for the first time since joining WLCW she smiles.
Hikari continues glaring up at Misao, but the Rose Queen takes no further action at this time. Instead she just turns away and disengages from the Deathmatch princess.

MISAO: Not yet. But soon.

Misao saunters off down the hallway, and Hikari watches her go. To her surprise, Konami pats Hikari on the head and ruffles her hair before following after Misao. This confounds Hikari even more, but she has no time to think about the incident. Kagetsu emerges from a nearby doorway and motions for Hikari to join her inside. Hikari chances one last look down the hallway in the direction Misao went, then shakes her head and goes into the room.

The scene fades to a commercial break.



MAURO RANALLO: What a remarkable debut for Vengeance so far, wouldn’t you say?

PAT MCAFEE: It’s been an all around excellent evening! A debut getting my approval, which isn’t easy! And that’s only after one match!

MAURO RANALLO: The energy in this place is palpable, I’ll tell you that much.

PAT MCAFEE: Understatement if I’ve ever heard one! The Enterprise center is hot and the night is still young!

MAURO RANALLO: Let’s check in backstage with our colleague Matt Striker. Matt?

MATT STRIKER: What a night gentlemen, St. Louis has certainly brought it for the debut episode of Vengeance. And, it’s been no different backstage. There is definitely high energy everywhere you go back here, clearly everyone wants …

​​Striker is cut off as a figure walks up next to him, his back to the camera. ​​

MATT STRIKER: A bit unexpected gentlemen, but you sent it backstage at the right time as we’re joined by none other than …

​​Striker isn’t able to finish his introduction, as the figure shakes his hips and straighten his collar, all with his back to the camera, all before turning around and introducing himself … ​​

THE HONKY TONK MAN: The Honky Tonk Man! That’s what you were gonna’ say, wasn’t it? That you are being joined by The Honky Tonk Man? Well, you’re right about that! And, not a moment too soon! How are we going to have the debut of the hottest wrestling show in the world without me!?

MATT STRIKER: That’s … a fair question. I suppose.

THE HONKY TONK MAN: I’ll tell you what that is, it’s the question on everyone’s mind! Everyone was wondering when they were going to see the reason WLCW is taking the entertainment industry by storm, and by Vengeance too, hah! … But they can stop wondering because here I am!

MATT STRIKER: Yes, here you are, no questioning that. And, since you are here, what does The Honky Tonk Man have in store for the fans of the WLCW?

​​Before Honky answers, he once again straightens the collar of his jumpsuit, which is blue in color, featuring his own image airbrushed on the top with the letters WLCW, and guitars running down the plants of the jumpsuit. ​​

THE HONKY TONK MAN: A reason to tune into our show of course! Hang just a second …

​​Honky steps out of the view of the camera for a moment, before returning with a guitar, which he rests over his shoulder. ​​

THE HONKY TONK MAN: WLCW is the hottest thing going, and I’m the reason why! I got three first class tickets to fly here to St. Louis tonight … on three different flights! Three!

​​Grinning ear to ear, Honky spins the guitar before again resting it on his shoulder. ​​

THE HONKY TONK MAN: You know you’re as happy as anyone to hear that, because it means you get to talk to the reason WLCW is at the top of the charts! And if anyone knows anything about being at the top of the charts, it’s The Honky Tonk Man! That’s what I’ve got in store for the fans and the rest of WLCW, a lot of time at the top of the charts!

MATT STRIKER: I see, and you’re certainly not without confidence.

THE HONKY TONK MAN: Of course not! Did I mention WLCW management sent me three first class tickets on three different flights!? They know a chart topper when they see one! Do you know what else they see?

MATT STRIKER: What’s that?

THE HONKY TONK MAN: When they’re looking at The Honky Tonk Man they see the coolest, the cockiest and the baddest man in WLCW!

JEFF PARKER: Now hold on just a second!

MATT LEE: What in the ever living hell do we have here?

​​The camera pans back to see 2.0 standing in frame now next to Honky. They seem a little intrigued by him. ​​

THE HONKY TONK MAN: Now what do you mean what do we have here? We have The Honky Tonk Man here. You guys must be from this dumb St. Louis if you’ve never seen natural musical talent like me.

​​Parker and Lee seemingly nod in agreement. ​​

MATT LEE: Hard to disagree with you there. This place is known for who? Nelly? Some weirdo named Chingy? This town wouldn’t know musical talent if it smacked them in the face!

THE HONKY TONK MAN: That’s right! Hey now, the Honky Tonk Man didn’t catch your names.

JEFF PARKER: We’re 2.0 and we are going to be the first and only tag team champions in WLCW history.

THE HONKY TONK MAN: First and only? Well the Honky Tonk Man likes the sound of that. Sounds like when ol’ Honky teamed up with Greg Valentine and was the hottest act in the world. You guys remember that.

​​2.0 shares a confused look before answering. ​​

JEFF PARKER: No…

MATT LEE: But it sounds awesome.

THE HONKY TONK MAN: Hey, you two ever seen a pink cadillac?

MATT LEE: You have a pink cadillac?

THE HONKY TONK MAN: The Honky Tonk Man has whatever he darn well pleases, now. Did you hear that WLCW sent me three first class tickets to get here tonight?

JEFF PARKER: That’s three more than 2.0 got.

MATT LEE: Yeah, what gives? We flew coach to this craphole.

THE HONKY TONK MAN: I tell you boys what, you stick with the Honky Tonk Man and flying coach will be a thing of the past. Ya got it?

​​Strumming just in front of the guitar, Honky struts out of the view of the camera. ​​

MATT STRIKER: Well folks, all the stars are out, even The Honky Tonk Man. And he seems to have made an impression on 2.0 ahead of their match tonight. Back to you, Mauro!

​​We return to the announce booth with a view of the booth. ​​

MAURO RANALLO: You were certainly impressed with the debut of The Honky Tonk Man I see.

​​Mauro is talking about Pat McAfee, who is standing at the announce booth clapping. ​​

PAT MCAFEE: Of course I was! How could you not be!? I know a star when I see one! I wasn’t the only one! Jeff Parker and Matt Lee were impressed too!

MAURO RANALLO: He certainly is something.

PAT MCAFEE: I know he is … a star!

​​ McAfee takes his seat as he and Mauro prepare for the next match. ​​

---

The fans are ready to go as this match gets underway. Kimber Lee and Sasha Banks are both weary about Su Yung’s presence in the match, doing their best to keep their eyes on her… however, Kimber Lee takes advantage of the Undead Bride’s presence and nails Sasha Banks with a roundhouse kick to the head, disorienting her. Before Sasha can even crumple to the mat, Kimber grabs two handfuls of tights and trash cans Sasha to the floor! Kimber taps her temple with her index finger, showing everyone how smart she is… until Su Yung dropkicks her in the back, sending her flailing forward into the ropes!

MAURO RANALLO: Once more into the fray we go with World League Championship Wrestling’s premier women’s division, and what a match we have for you now!

PAT MCAFEE: This thing is already underway, Mauro! They’re goin’ ninety to nothin’ and ain’t nothin’ gonna stop these lethal ladies until a winner is crowned, am I right? OF COURSE I’M RIGHT!

Resting across the middle rope, Kimber Lee doesn’t see Su Yung coming as she rebounds off the ropes and drills her in the back of the head with double knees! Su Yung grabs a handful of Kimber Lee’s hair and pulls her in for a snap suplex! Su Yung makes a quick cover but Kimber kicks out at two! Su Yung maintains control, keeping a hold on Kimber’s hair as she guides her back to her feet. Kimber fights back, drilling Su Yung with forearms and elbows to the mid-section! Su Yung finally releases her grip, but throws a wild haymaker at Kimber. Kimber ducks the strike and grabs her around the waist… BRIDGING GERMAN SUPLEX! ONE! TWO! NO! SASHA BANKS RETURNS TO BREAK THE PIN!

PAT MCAFEE: IT’S BOSS TIME IN MISSOURI, MAURO! YOU THOUGHT SHE WAS OUT? YOU THOUGHT SHE WAS DOWN FOR THE COUNT?! NO WAY! SASHA BANKS IS HERE TO PLAY!

MAURO RANALLO: Kimber Lee could very well have won the match with that move, if not for Sasha Banks! I hope you’re caught up on the new season of COBRA KAI, Pat, because Sasha Banks is PLAYING SPOILER HERE TONIGHT!

PAT MCAFEE: What does that have to do with ANYTHING?!

The fans cheer loudly as Sasha rolls back to her feet and backs up into the corner. Su Yung slowly rises to her feet and Sasha charges at her… SHOTGUN DROPKICK to the chest! Su Yung flies backward… into a LARIAT TO THE BACK OF THE HEAD FROM KIMBER LEE! The impact sends Su Yung careening forward into a LUNG BLOWER from Sasha Banks! The impact sends Su Yung flailing backward into a RELEASE GERMAN SUPLEX from Kimber Lee! Su Yung lands all on her head and neck before rolling out onto the apron and tumbling onto the floor! The fans cheer loudly as Kimber Lee and Sasha Banks give one another respectful nod and high five!

MAURO RANALLO: Kimber Lee and Sasha Banks have established themselves as the proverbial HOBBS & SHAW of this match-up, heated enemies to reluctant friends to beat back a much greater threat! In this case, SU YUNG! But will this TEAM UP be a BOX OFFICE SUCCESS or a COMMERCIAL FAILURE!?

PAT MCAFEE: Yeah, I don’t know about any of that, but they did what they had to do to get the job DONE, Mauro! Now it’s back to business and I’m calling it right now, dude. Kimber Lee has shown some serious aggression out there tonight. I think the Crown Jewel of the Lee Family has got this one all wrapped up! Sorry, Sasha! I still love ya’, babe!

The good vibes aren’t long for this world as Kimber Lee immediately boots Sasha in the stomach and plants her with a vertical suplex. Kimber rolls straight back to her feet, maintaining her grip, and plants Sasha with a swinging neckbreaker before pointing at the top rope. The fans buzz with anticipation as Kimber Lee ascends the turnbuckles and prepares to fly… but Su Yung climbs onto the apron and nails Kimber Lee with DEMONIC RED MIST! Kimber falls from the top rope to the floor below, blind! Su Yung climbs the turnbuckles herself but just as she reaches the top, Sasha Banks comes to life and charges the corner, leaping onto the middle rope and bringing Su Yung down with a DOUBLE UNDERHOOK SUPERPLEX! The fans lose their minds as both women lie in the center of the ring! Sasha comes to first and covers Su Yung with one arm… one! Two! Thre— SU YUNG GETS A SHOULDER UP!

PAT MCAFEE: YOU CAN’T KEEP A GOOD GHOUL DOWN!

MAURO RANALLO: SOMEONE CALL THE WARRENS, SU YUNG IS… CONJURING A COMEBACK!

Sasha gets back to her feet and grabs a handful of Su’s hair, pulling her up behind her. She brings her in and plants her with a suplex… and another… and another! It’s the THREE AMIGOS! Sasha scrambles back to her feet, shimmies just like Eddie Guerrero, and then climbs the turnbuckles. She pats herself on the chest three times and flies… FROG SPLASH! She covers and hooks both legs! ONE! TWO! THRE– NO! KIMBER LEE PULLS SASHA OUT OF THE RING! The fans erupt in boos! Kimber continues to rub at her eyes, agitated by the mist. Sasha nails Kimber with a forearm that rattles her! Kimber returns fire, but as they enter a proper forearm exchange, Su Yung falls from the top rope and takes both women out with a CROSSBODY!

MAURO RANALLO: DON’T LOOK UP, LEO AND J-LAW! SU YUNG IS HURTLING TO THE EARTH LIKE A WORLD KILLING ASTEROID AND NO ONE IS SAFE!

PAT MCAFEE: That's a frickin' HORRIBLE movie! Is it too late to change my pick!? Su Yung is BRINGING IT!

Wasting no time, Su Yung snatches up Sasha Banks and tosses her over the rail and into the front row! She pulls the near-blind Kimber Lee to her feet and throws her under the bottom rope. Su Yung follows her in but Kimber rolls back to her feet as quickly as possible and meets Su as she stands up. She charges with a clothesline but Su ducks it and boots Kimber in the stomach on the turnaround. She hoists her up… PANIC SWITCH– NO! Kimber Lee slips out, grabs Su Yung around the waist, and rushes her forward toward the ropes, making her collide with Sasha Banks who had just climbed onto the apron! Sasha tumbles to the floor and Kimber Lee launches Su Yung with a RELEASE GERMAN SUPLEX… but Su Yung rolls right back to her feet and charges at Kimber Lee as she turns around… CRUCIFIX HOLD! She drags Kimber down to the mat and then shoves her fingers into her mouth… THE PURGE! SHE LOCKS IN THE PURGE! KIMBER LEE SHRIEKS AND HAS NO CHOICE BUT TO TAP OUT!

---

Su Yung releases the hold and Kimber Lee rolls out onto the apron where a member of ring crew is waiting to pour water in her eyes. The referee apprehensively raises Su Yung’s arm in victory as she glares at Kimber Lee, breathing heavily. Sasha Banks looks pissed as she cradles her neck and walks to the back, obviously disappointed by the loss.

PAT MCAFEE: What a wild brawl! Listen to these people! THEY LOVE IT!

MAURO RANALLO: Hats off to all three of these ladies! They went all out in their effort, a winner has been crowned… and her name is SU YUNG!

PAT MCAFEE: THE UNDEAD BRIDE! Condolences to Sasha Banks and Kimber Lee. They gave it all they had but it just wasn’t enough tonight! I’m pumped, Mauro! I’m ready to see what impact this victory has on the future of the women’s division!

We fade out on a shot of Su Yung creeping around the ring, bathed in red light with the fans staring in awe of what they just witnessed.

As the cameras cut backstage, we find a young man dressed in a nice suit looking at the catering items in front of him. With his back facing the camera, we can't tell who it is until we notice the Burberry scarf around his neck.

MAXWELL JACOB FRIEDMAN: Um... excuse me?

He turns to his right. A youngish girl approaches dressed in a white shirt, black bowtie, and apron.

MAXWELL JACOB FRIEDMAN: Can you tell me where the good stuff is?

She smiles and points to the table that MJF was just looking at.

SERVER: It's all great! My personal favorite is the wild mushroom-stuffed puff pastries. But we have shrimp cocktails, classic sliders, lobster rolls, and -- oh, the mini grilled cheese and tomato soups are adorable!

MJF puts a hand to his forehead. He quietly sighs.

MAXWELL JACOB FRIEDMAN: Okay, listen, hun, I'm sure for a girl like you this is probably the best your life is ever going to get. And I'm not talking about this job or these God awful appetizers, I'm not even talking about living in this third-world country known as "St. Louis" --

MJF stops to hear the fans in attendance boo him. He turns his attention towards them, and the camera.

MAXWELL JACOB FRIEDMAN: -- hey, there's a reason the Rams left.

The booing grows louder but MJF's focus is back on the girl, who looks a bit confused.

MAXWELL JACOB FRIEDMAN: I'm talking about the sheer fact that you are inches away from the most talented professional wrestler walking the earth today. Trust me, it's all downhill from here. Your life will never be as exciting as it is right now. So you're welcome for that, but I need you to go to the back and bring out the good stuff because this -- this --

He points to the mixture of appetizers in front of him.

MAXWELL JACOB FRIEDMAN: This is not "the good stuff." Maybe if you DID live in a third world country, you'd call this the good stuff. Or maybe if you're the type of girl who's used to three-and-a-half inch one pump chumps like the ones filling the seats out there --

MJF turns and points towards the camera, indicating the male fans in attendance. Once again, a loud chorus of boos ring out.

MAXWELL JACOB FRIEDMAN: -- then maybe, just MAYBE, you'd call this "good enough." But I'm Salt of the Earth, sweetheart. I know the difference between high class delicacies and the clearance aisle at the nearest Wal-Mart deli. So either get me the good stuff from out back or drop to your knees and give me the good stuff because either way, I'm not leaving until one of our mouths is full.

The girl can't believe her ears as her face reddens and she turns to stomp out while a confused MJF looks on.

MAXWELL JACOB FRIEDMAN: Whaaaat? Come on. Don't be such a bitc --

??: What's up?

MJF turns to see the big man known as Wardlow approach. He pops a mini grilled cheese into his mouth.

WARDLOW: That was pretty good. You have one yet?

MAXWELL JACOB FRIEDMAN: No. I'm waiting for the good stuff, which may or may not actually exist.

WARDLOW: What are you talking about? This is the good stuff.

The grilled cheese minis are wedged into a shot glass with a tiny portion of tomato soup waiting below. Wardlow takes the time to carefully dip his grilled cheese into the tomato soup this time. His eyes light up as he chews and swallows.

WARDLOW: Seriously, man, you gotta have one. Here --

Wardlow offers the shot glass to MJF.

MAXWELL JACOB FRIEDMAN: Get that away from me!

MJF smacks Wardlow's hand, causing the appetizer to go flying. The glass shatters upon hitting the floor. A foot nearly steps in the mixture of tomato soup and glass before it seems to realize the danger ahead, which is fortunate for MJF given the owner of said foot.

MICK FOLEY: Clean up, aisle five! Hahahaha!

The crowd cheers upon seeing the WLCW GM, but MJF doesn't seem to share the same sentiments.

MAXWELL JACOB FRIEDMAN: Great...

MICK FOLEY: You know, it's the funniest thing. I just had the guy in charge of the catering company I paid for tell me one of his best workers just quit because she was being harassed by -- and these are her words, not mine -- some douchebag with a scarf.

There's a pop from the crowd as MJF grins.

MICK FOLEY: And as sharp as you look in that baby, I'm kinda thinkin' maybe she was talkin' about you.

MAXWELL JACOB FRIEDMAN: I merely asked the broad where the good stuff is. That's it.

MICK FOLEY: Have you tried the mini grilled cheeses? They're to die for! Either way, I'm having a hard time believing that was all you said to her, Max.

Before MJF can continue to lie, he's cut off.

MICK FOLEY: You know what? It's the first night of World League Championship Wrestling and I'm in a great mood so I'm gonna let that slide! But I'm actually glad I ran into you.

MJF raises an eyebrow.

MAXWELL JACOB FRIEDMAN: Is that so?

MICK FOLEY: Yeah. See, we signed a number of talented superstars over the past couple of weeks and it warmed the cockles of my heart to see so many of them involved in matches tonight... right here in St. Louis!

Foley acknowledges the cheap pop from the crowd.

MICK FOLEY: But you're one of the few who is not competing and I have to admit, Max, I'm a little bummed out. Because for all the success you've had prior to WLCW, you did it on a... how should I put this... limited schedule?

MJF chuckles as he slaps the GM on the shoulder.

MAXWELL JACOB FRIEDMAN: Mick... Mick, Mick, Mick, look, bud, I know this might be hard for you to understand because back in your day you wrestled night in and night out, right?

MICK FOLEY: Sure did.

MAXWELL JACOB FRIEDMAN: And that's great. Congrats. Really. But the fact is it's 2022. Times change. We evolve. The athletes of today aren't quite like the athletes of yesterday, you know? And someone as talented as I am? There's just no need to wrestle every single week, let alone every single day. Now, could I have gone out there and kicked somebody's ass? Sure. Could I have sent Wardlow out to do the same? Yeah. But I'm gonna let you in on a little secret, okay, bud? The ratings go up when I'm on screen, whether I'm in my trunks or my suit. And I didn't really see the need to go out there and risk getting injured before next week's big match, you know?

MICK FOLEY: You make some good points there, Max. And, look, I'm not here to force you to do anything you're uncomfortable with...

The smile on his face slowly fades as he takes a step closer to MJF.

MICK FOLEY: But I will tell you that we're not paying you to just come and go as you please. At the end of the day, this is a professional wrestling company and I expect you to be in that ring more often than not. I know you think you're something special -- and maybe you are -- but I've seen plenty of guys just like you fizzle out and amount to less than nothing. Take a look around, Max -- this is it. There's no competition. There's no alternative. There's WLCW and nothing else. So if you wanna stick around, I suggest you spend more time in the ring and less time harassing innocent young women.

MJF puts a hand on Foley's arm.

MAXWELL JACOB FRIEDMAN: You're right, Mick. I crossed a line earlier and I shouldn't have. I should go say I'm sorry...

MJF turns to leave, but he stops and looks back.

MAXWELL JACOB FRIEDMAN: ... by the way, how's Noelle doing? Maybe I should give her a call. Maybe she'd like to reach into my pants and try to find Mr. Socko.

Foley's eyes are full with rage as he takes a step towards MJF, but Wardlow is quick to get in front of the Plainville native. MJF cackles before giving the GM a little wave goodbye.

MAXWELL JACOB FRIEDMAN: Have a nice day.

MAURO RANALLO: Oh come on! That was completely inappropriate!

PAT MCAFEE: This guy makes friends wherever he goes!

MJF walks off with Wardlow hanging back for a moment to make sure Foley doesn't go after him. Wardlow shakes his head at Foley and then follows MJF away.

MAURO RANALLO: Well I was really hoping the MJF we'd see in WLCW would be different from the MJF we know from the past but that doesn't look like it's going to happen.

PAT MCAFEE: Guy's got style! Not my style... but SOMEONE'S style!

MAURO RANALLO: Like him or not, you have to imagine he'll be involved in the World Title Contender Battle Royale that's taking place on Storm!

PAT MCAFEE: Involved? He'll be the favorite! He's won three of those suckers already!

---

These two men standing across the ring from one another have seen a ton of professional wrestling matches in their time. Two men who could be considered professional wrestling legends for all they’ve given to the business in their career. Now, they find themselves wanting to take a huge first step here in WLCW and make a giant statement on opening night. Both men have also, sadly, had their fair share of history with injuries throughout their career. Yet, they’ve both shown to be heavily resilient to be here tonight after all of those issues. Nash has the height advantage while Joe has a slight weight advantage. The bell rings and this one is officially underway.

PAT MCAFEE: I can’t believe I’m calling a match between Kevin Nash and Samoa Joe! This is surreal!

MAURO RANALLO: For as much talent as their is in the chamber for the future of wrestling, these are two guys who can still go themselves!

They circle one another in the ring before finally locking up. Nash pushes him back into the corner and gives him a clean break. He holds his hand up as he backs away and gives Joe a little smirk. Neither of these two are looking to rush into any kind of danger here. They go to lock up once again but Joe drives his knee right into Nash’s stomach. Kevin is bent over a bit as Joe comes with a big uppercut punch and drives it into the big man’s chin. Nash is knocked back a bit but responds quickly with a fist of his own. Right…right…right, Samoa Joe is knocked back into the corner. Nash comes in with big elbows right across Joe’s chest repeatedly in the corner. Two…then a third…and then a fourth. Nash panders to the fans a bit and they applaud the big man who comes across with one more back elbow onto Joe, who stumbles out of the corner and falls to the mat.

MAURO RANALLO: Classic Kevin Nash there with those elbows! Like being transported back to the nineties via elbows!

PAT MCAFEE: Transported via elbows!? I’m sure Joe would much prefer just using a DeLorean!

Joe is face down on the mat as Nash stalks him from above, dropping a big jumping elbow drop right into the small of his back. Joe grabs at his back and rolls over, only for Nash to rise quickly - or as quickly as anyone with quadricep injuries has had - and drive another elbow right into Joe’s chest this time. Nash goes for a pin but only gets a quick two count. Joe gets the shoulder up. Nash removes the straps off his shoulders and motions to the crowd once again. They stand to their feet in anticipation of Nash going for a jackknife powerbomb! Nash brings Joe to his feet and sets him up for the powerbomb, but before he can, Joe hoists him up and over for a back bodydrop! Nash turns and tries to use the ropes to get back to his feet. As he gets there, Joe tries to grab him from behind and put him in the Coquina Clutch! Nash is fighting hard to make sure Joe can’t lock it in. He drives an elbow right into Joe’s stomach, doubling him over. Nash grabs Joe from the side and hoists him as high as he can and drives him down to the mat with a sidewalk slam! He goes for the pin! 1…2…3! It’s over!

---

PAT MCAFEE: Wow! That came out of nowhere!

MAURO RANALLO: Kevin Nash has picked up a huge win here tonight against Samoa Joe!

PAT MCAFEE: Joe’s a big guy! Nash getting him up with the sidewalk slam is nothing to scoff at!

MAURO RANALLO: Good enough to get the job done!

We cut to Josh Matthews, who is outside the arena where a mob of disgruntled fan are jostling with security. These are the poor unfortunate souls who didn't manage to get tickets.

Trash cans have been lit on fire and an all-night vigil appears to be taking place as bereft wrestling fans lick their wounds and tell stories of shows they once attended.

The scene is reminiscent of an apocalyptic wasteland and fumes of smoke can be seen rising in the distance.

Josh nervously steps closer to the crowd and addresses the camera.

JOSH MATHEWS: Folks, I'm outside the Enterprise Center where we have tens, if not dozens of wrestling fans who couldn't get tickets for tonight's show.

Matthews gestures towards the resent pack of wrestling fans who look ready to riot.

JOSH MATHEWS: Instead of taking to social media, these old-school warriors have taken to the streets in protest and appear to be camping out for the evening. There are reports of flipped cop cars and a storming of the ticket office! Such is the demand of WLCW Vengeance! Let's try grabbing a few words with some of these St. Louie objectors.

Matthews looks around for a candidate. One fan is holding up a sign which reads 'WILL ... FOR WLCW TICKETS'. Josh's head thankfully blocks the middle text. Another sign reads 'SMARK LIVES MATTER'.

Matthews approaches a figure in the middle of a crowd. The man is clearly deranged and is wearing a crown and cape.

It's R-Truth!

JOSH MATHEWS: R-R-Ron Killings! R-Truth! Are you here for the show? Have you signed with WLCW? Are you part of this protest?

Truth appears to be the ringleader of this madness.

He is sat on a throne of human bodies! Behind him a wobbly-kneed senior citizen is on all fours while Truth sits on his back. Two wide-eyed women make up the arm rests and an overweight man is propping up Truth as the head rest! R-Truth proudly sits atop his mortal throne.

The rest of the protestors surround Truth protectively while sneering at Matthews.

R TRUTH: Alas swain, farmhands and peasants! Your king has spoken! I reveal to you the perpetrator of your ticketlessness! ... Josh Matthews!

Truth adjusts his crown.

JOSH MATHEWS: What!? No! This has nothing to do with me! The show has been sold out for months! It's literally the only wrestling show in town!

R TRUTH: Lies! My Little Jimmies tells me you are scalper! Matthews has been hooking up family with front row seats!

Truth points at Matthews and commands his troops:

R TRUTH: Attack! And know that your sacrifice will grant you thousands of tickets in the afterlife!

The mob bays for blood and swarms on Matthews as the image fades.

And then....

Nothing but the reflective light of a TV screen in the darkness. Somewhere in the production truck.

The previous broadcast can be seen in the reflection and one lone figure is fixated on a single monitor.

...

It's Eric Bischoff.

ERIC BISCHOFF: Yes, he's perfect.

Bischoff grins wider than a Cheshire cat.

ERIC BISCHOFF: I can use him.

The smile widens further with a twisted evil.

ERIC BISCHOFF: This guy is money.

Bischoff laughs maniacally as we dissolve to ringside.

PAT MCAFEE: I genuinely mean this, Mauro. What the hell was all that about?

MAURO RANALLO: I'd say your guess is as good as mine but I think neither of them would be even close to correct! We may have to wait and see how this all plays out with R Truth and Bischoff! Let's get back to the action!

---

Before the match begins, Booker T stands on the apron, imparting advice to Rok-C as he glares at Misao and Konami from across the ring with wide, bugged out eyes. Rok-C nods and turns to face her opponent. Kneeling on the apron. Konami grins evilly at Rok-C before hopping down, assuming her place in Misao’s corner. The referee calls for the bell and Rok-C meets Misao in the center of the ring, offering her hand in a gesture of respect. Misao looks down at Rok-C’s hand and sneers before kicking it away, drawing boos from the thousands in attendance.

MAURO RANALLO: And here we GO with the first women’s match in what is sure to be the long and storied history of World League Championship Wrestling! Much like Star Wars Episode I: The Phantom Menace was the first step in a legendary journey that’s still going on today, so will this match mark the first step in our stellar women roster’s journey which will no doubt last a lifetime!

PAT MCAFEE: Yeah, what he said, except that unlike The Phantom Menace, there’s a strong chance this match isn’t going to completely suck! There’s a stupid amount of history goin’ on tonight, we’ve already seen the first champion crowned earlier tonight, and now… THIS! But just because history is being made, that doesn’t mean these women have ANY respect for each other! Misao isn’t shaking Rok-C’s hand and these fans, these absolute mad men making up the WLCW audience tonight, they’re letting her hear all about it and I love it! THESE ARE MY PEOPLE!

Visibly offended by the gesture, Rok-C shakes her head and the two competitors begin circling one another. They both go in for a lock-up but Misao fakes her out with a knee lift and clubs away at her back until she falls to her knees! Grabbing two handfuls of hair, Misao drives her hip into Rok-C’s head, sending her sprawling flat on her back. Misao stalks the fallen Rok-C, giving her a chance to get to all fours before booting her hard in the ribs. Rok-C scrambles for the ropes but Misao stays on her, grabbing a handful of hair and forcing her throat down over the middle rope, choking her violently!

PAT MCAFEE: Dude, I don’t know much about this Misao chick but she is PASSIONATE in her violence, I’ll give ‘er that! She came here to WIN tonight! She knows the game! She’s gotta lay it all on the line and make a name for herself! She’s my pick to walk outta’ here with the W!

MAURO RANALLO: Don’t be so quick to count out the resilient Rok-C! She’s got the legendary FIVE TIME WCW World Champion in her corner! Having been trained by one of the best in the industry, you have to imagine he’s passed on a relative cornucopia of knowledge to his protégé!

Booker T shouts at the referee to “get on ‘er, dawg!” and the five count begins with Misao releasing the choke at the absolute last second. Misao smirks and goes to resume her punishment of the fan favorite Prodigy, but Rok-C comes alive suddenly and grabs the front of Misao’s tights, pulling her forward and causing her to tumble through the ropes and onto the apron! Rok-C scrambles back to her feet as Misao rises on the apron. They trade forearm blows over the ropes before Rok-C throws a knee through the ropes, gaining the advantage before grabbing either side of Misao’s head and snapping her neck on the top rope! Misao tumbles to the floor where Konami runs over to check on her!

MAURO RANALLO: And to the floor goes Misao! Things are looking up for Rok-C if she can capitalize!

PAT MCAFEE: I didn’t expect to see action on the floor this early in the game! Given what we’ve seen from Misao so far tonight, I don’t know if I’d want to be trapped outside with her! I don’t know, maybe I’m wrong but it feels like a recipe for PAIN to me!

As Konami helps Misao to her feet, the fans suddenly go wild… as Rok-C flies through the ropes with a SUICIDE DIVE, wiping out Misao and Konami at the same time! Rok-C gets back to her feet, fired up, and grabs Misao by the hair. She pulls Misao into a standing position and whips her hard into the ring steps! Rok-C follows her in with a RUNNING METEORA INTO THE STEPS! Misao appears visibly out of it as Rok-C pulls her back to her feet and throws her under the bottom rope. Rok-C goes to follow her back inside, but Konami grabs Rok-C’s ankle, holding her in place long enough for Misao to recover and fall on Rok-C with a double ax handle strike to the back! Misao goes to work, pummeling Rok-C before pulling her back up to her feet. Rok-C defiantly fires off with a forearm strike to the chest and Misao returns one that puts Rok-C on spaghetti legs. Rok-C throws a haymaker and Misao ducks it… GERMAN SUPLEX! Rok-C lands all on her head and neck!

MAURO RANALLO: MAMA MIA! JUST LIKE JOE BIDEN’S PROMISE TO CANCEL STUDENT DEBT, ROK-C’S NECK HAS BEEN SHAMELESSLY BROKEN!

PAT MCAFEE: I don’t think she’s getting up from that one, Mauro! Rok-C has been beaten DOWN this entire match! That’s bad enough but her head and neck just got frickin’ SAWDUSTED!

Misao goes for a cover but only gets two as Rok-C kicks out! Misao uses Rok-C’s kick out momentum against her, immediately transitioning her into an arm trap crossface! Misao pulls back on the hold, trying to force a submission! Rok-C fights for her life, refusing to tap out as Booker T shouts at her to get to the ropes, pounding the mat with his fist. As Rok-C gets closer to the bottom rope with her foot, Konami pulls the bottom rope away from her… until the referee catches her and threatens to have her removed from ringside! Rok-C gets her foot on the bottom rope and Misao is forced to break the hold!

MAURO RANALLO: It’s not over yet! Much like the ample backside of Kim Kardashian, Rok-C will not QUIT!

PAT MCAFEE: She can’t have much left, Mauro! All the respect in the world to her, she’s done her best but Misao has PUNISHED her! She’s beaten her within an inch of her life! She’s escaped this hold but what about the next one?! She needs to think about her future!

Both women quickly roll back to their feet and Rok-C charges at Misao, peppering her with forearms until she’s backed all the way into the corner. Wasting no time, Rok-C climbs to the middle rope and begins punching down into Misao’s forehead as the fans count along all the way to ten… and then Misao grabs Rok-C’s tights and walks out with her in a POWERBOMB position! Rok-C lands another couple quick punches into Misao’s head and drops down behind her! RELEASE GERMAN SUPLEX ON MISAO! Misao rolls straight back to her feet and turns Rok-C inside out with a LARIAT! Rok-C struggles back to her knees and Misao comes off the ropes with a KNEE LIFT TO THE FACE! Rok-C goes down and Misao pulls her straight back to her feet, boot to the stomach… VANITAS! She covers! ONE! TWO! THREE!

---

PAT MCAFEE: What a FIGHT! I know I called a victory for Misao, but I’ll give it up for Rok-C. She’s small but DY-NO-MITE comes in small packages! We haven’t seen the last of her, not by a long shot!

MAURO RANALLO: Truly a great battle to ring in a new era in women’s professional wrestling! And we’ve still got two highly anticipated women’s matches to go tonight!

Misao boots Rok-C in the side, causing her to roll onto the apron where Booker T helps her to the floor. The fans offer light applause as Booker T walks her to the back and they disappear through the curtain. In the ring, Konami joins Misao, kneeling and presenting her with her rose tipped cane. Misao grips it tightly, appearing triumphant as we fade to black.

After the fade out, the scene slowly fades in on a the following black and white image.



With a stare that holds for seconds but feels like minutes, the camera holds on the very tight shot on Black's face as Malakai slowly begins to speak.

MALAKAI BLACK: Here we are. A new beginning. Amidst a cataclysmic and dramatic change in the wrestling empire, a simple statement has been pervasive in my head over the previous few weeks. I hear men talk about being on "the first show", winning "their first match", being our "first champion", and I can't help but feel the need to say the obvious. Fools rush in. Maybe it is out of survival and the fear that they'll be treated like an outcast like in previous promotions. Maybe its out of concern that their star power has faded with their dead companies and their future is nothing but downhill from those previous highs. For some this is merely another stage to keep working their longest con. Another chance to deceive the millions and convince them that they're something that they aren't. WLCW, do not be confused. There are wolves among the sheep. Or better yet, I should say that there are snakes. All the fakes are snakes and there are some that are already dying to take a venomous bite out of you all and their "allies" in the back. They've already started, I just haven't found them yet. But that's alright. Because I am not a man in a rush. I am a man desperate to savor every moment that I have. I'm patient because I need to be right with my choices, I have no desire to make a friend that'll stab me the moment I turn my back on them. And as such I will stand here with my back to no one and put my faith in my own hands. I will wait here back against the wall and I will watch. I will watch every single action from every single direction from every single man. And when I find the right target for my aggression I will not falter I will not fail; I will strike with a brutal fury and I will obliterate the individual who deserved my attack.

Malakai closes his eyes and holds onto that statement. He opens them again and his off-colored eye presence is again seen.

MALAKAI BLACK: Don't get me wrong, I'm not going to act high and mighty here. There's no such thing as good and evil, that's nothing but a tall tale you were told as a kid. It was a lie. Heroes do not exist. We're all the villains. We're bad people who just aren't on the same side. The difference is that I acknowledge my evil and my sin. I know where my power comes from, straight from the pits of hell. I accept that the power inside me is a temporary glory and each moment I hold it my body rots more and more. And someday when every other evil has been put down it'll be my day to face my overdue karma. But that day is still to come. And who am I to let this power go to waste while I wait? Why should I reject this opportunity to enact vengeance upon those that deserve it? The devil has my soul in their pocket... the least I can do is make that trade worth it.

Malakai offers a slight pause and nod at their own thought.

MALAKAI BLACK: I have no doubt about my own future. There's only one way that my story ends and that is the deep pits of hell; the truest House of Black. For me redemption is not an option and salvation is off the table. All I have left are cruel intentions and a watchful eye... Malakai points at his poisoned eye with a sinister flash of a smile. for the snakes. And to the first one, the man who earns my wrath and earns their stay alongside me in the House of Black... we shall meet soon enough.

With that, the video simply ends and we return to the commentary table.

MAURO RANALLO: Even without competing Malakai Black's presence is felt here tonight through the threatening words. His soul is in Satan's hands and he's intending to stock the House of Black with others who deserve it.

PAT MCAFEE: Malakai is watching and waiting for the snake to bear their fangs. Who knows, he may even find his target tonight. The House of Black works in mysterious ways I think, Mauro!

MAURO RANALLO: I can believe that. After this quick commercial break, we're back to our first WLCW Vengeance!



We come back from commercial with the Lee Family already in the ring and 2.0 making their way down to join them.

---

The Lee Family is an odd little group. It would seem as though they’re a blood relative family but it would seem that maybe all this group shares is a last name. Perhaps some more a quick visit with an ancestry web site would do them good. Tonight it’s Jason and Trevor who will make their WLCW debut on behalf of the family. And standing across the ring from them are the tag team 2.0. A team made up of Jeff Parker and Matt Lee. Two men who have years of wrestling experience and a ton of tag team chemistry. A team that everyone will have to keep an eye on in the tag team division here early on. However, unlike the Lees, they aren’t family and perhaps that will be their undoing here tonight. Both teams figure out who will start first and it’ll be Parker taking on Trevor Lee to get this one underway. Referee Shane Sewell calls for the bell and this one is officially started.

PAT MCAFEE: You know Mauro, seeing them out here like this, I’m starting to think your last name might actually be Lee too.

MAURO RANALLO: I don’t think that’s the compliment you think it is!

PAT MCAFEE: I know what I said!

Trevor comes running towards Jeff who ducks and hits him with a drop toe hold as he goes by, crashing face first into the mat. Trevor is holding his face with one hand, using the other to get back to his feet. Jeff makes an immediate tag to Matt and they’re both in the ring together now. They go under each shoulder and lift him up, dropping him back for a double back body drop. Parker steps out as Matt Lee goes to work…wait…Matt Lee…no, it can’t be. Just a coincidence I’m sure. Trevor down, Matt goes to work wrenches in a shoulder lock. He has Trevor down, telling Sewell to check him. No quit in Trevor Lee though. He reaches out for a tag to Jason who is reaching his arm and hand as far as he can. Trevor is nowhere close though as Matt keeps the arm wrench on. He pulls Trevor up to one knee and reaches over, making another quick tag back to Jeff. Parker hops over the ropes and grabs Trevor’s other shoulder. They lift him back to his feet, whipping him into the ropes. As he bounces off and back towards them, he’s met with four feet right to the face with a double dropkick! Parker goes for a pin. 1..2..no!

PAT MCAFEE: Gotta tell ya, really great tag team work here from 2.0!

MAURO RANALLO: Yeah, they’re in mid-season form here tonight for their debut. Looking very strong.

As Parker argues with Sewell over the count, it’s all the time Trevor needed to crawl over and tag in Jason Lee. Jason comes in like a house of fire and catches Parker off guard. He hits him with a big chop across the chest, knocking him back. Then again, a double handed back chop right across the chest. Parker is in pain, staggering a bit. Jason hits him with a standing drop kick, fully knocking him back into the corner. But it’s 2.0’s corner and Matt Lee makes the tag on Parker’s back. He comes into the ring and goes right towards Jason who jumps over him. Matt has no choice but to duck under, hitting the ropes behind him. As Matt goes running back towards Jason, the Lee brother falls to his back catching Matt as he gets to him, flipping him over his head onto his back with a monkey flip! Matt lands and Jeff reaches over, just grazing his partner’s head to make the tag. Jeff Parker is back in the ring now and grabs Jason Lee by the hair before he can get back to his feet. He goes for a big right hand punch, but Jason blocks it. He tries to return one of his own, but Parker blocks it as well! Another standing dropkick from Jason knocks Jeff back once again! Jeff stumbles back into the corner, where once again, he’s tagged out by Matt Lee. Jason backs up a few steps as Jeff Parker stumbles towards him. Jason rushes towards him but Parker grabs him as he’s almost got him and lifts him up and over his head, throwing him behind him! Matt Lee is there for a spear right out of mid air before Jason Lee can land! Parker rushes forward, knocking Trevor Lee off the apron and to the floor! Matt goes for the pin! 1…2…3! It’s over!

---

PAT MCAFEE: An absolute tag team wrestling clinic by 2.0!

MAURO RANALLO: Jeff Parker and Matt Lee looking like the consummate professionals that they are here tonight!

PAT MCAFEE: Look out tag division! 2.0 are a serious threat!