•
|
As ROH comes on to air, we open with a black screen, with the caption “Earlier This Week” appearing on-screen before fading out. Another caption reading “Boston, Massachusetts" comes and then goes.
The scene opens up as a car pulls up outside of a traditional suburban property. We see a hand tap on the front door of a quaint little New England home, however it doesn't appear that anyone is in. We then cut to a shot from behind of a figure wearing a hoodie trying to look through a screen door to see if there's any signs of life. Once more, a shot of a hand knocking on the door before it cuts to none other than “The Miracle” Mike Bennett holding his camera phone up to film himself as he speaks in a hushed tone.
Mike Bennett: I have no idea how this is going to go but I've been trying to get a hold of Matt for days now. Apparently management has tried to reach out to him, he's missing appointments, he's missing meetings… this just isn't like him…
We jump cut again to Bennett knocking rather loudly on the front door of who we can only assume to be his long-time friend and tag team partner Matt Taven. He yells out, asking if anyone is in. Once again, we cut back to Bennett, who seems to be vlogging, but for whose benefit - we do not know.
Mike Bennett: I've been here for half an hour now, I'm surprised no one has tried to call the cops on me. I don't know man, I've never seen him like this before. I know that it's been a couple of crazy years with him and Vincent but this just isn't like him. Matt isn't a quitter. He's been to hell and back, but he's never backed down.
Some clunky editing then shows Mike looking through the screen door again, seemingly talking to someone on the other side.
Mike Bennett: What are you doing man? I've been trying to call you all week! Have you not looked at your phone?
We can't quite see Taven through the screen or hear him, but we can interpret what he's saying from Bennett's response.
Mike Bennett: You can't carry on like this Matt, this isn't like you....can you come outside at least or let me in?
"The Miracle" shakes his head, in frustration.
Mike Bennett: Listen Matt, I love you like a brother but all this [censored] that Vinny's pulling, it's smoke and mirrors! He wants to get in your head and psyche you out and it looks like you've taken the bait. I'm not going to wait around here all day, so if you're not going to let me in, then just remember why I came back to Ring of Honor - because YOU asked me.
Silence.
Mike Bennett: Okay, well you sit around feeling sorry for yourself but he was right about one thing - I know you're not happy with the way it ended at the 19th Anniversary Show. So when you wake up and you recognize the man looking back at you, you call me okay? Maria says The Board have reinstated a temporary injunction so that should keep them away for now, but hiding away like this isn't going to send them away, Matt. Remember that.
Again. Silence.
Bennett looks annoyed at Taven's lack of motivation to engage in the situation and end the war with the Righteous once and for all. He turns away and sighs heavily before making his way back to the car. Past his shoulder we can see Taven faintly through the screen door, clearly pausing for thought. |
CHRIS DICKINSON vs. JOE KEYS
We flash from the pre-recorded video of Bennett and Taven to the interior of the UMBC Event Center where Caprice Coleman and Ian Riccaboni welcome the fans to the show! They take a moment to acknowledge the situation with the despondent Taven, and Caprice postulates that the only way Taven or Vincent is ever going to find peace is if the other is taken out of commission. But enough about that, they send it to Bobby Cruise for the introductions of the opening contest.
Joe Keys enters first. The graduate of the inaugural class of the ROH Dojo looks confident heading into the bout, and physically he appears at the top of the game. “The Dirty Daddy” Chris Dickinson makes his entrance next, and it’s our first proper look at Violence Unlimited. He comes down to the song “Violence Unlimited” performed by Brody King’s band God’s Hate. The rest of the faction trails behind as the bruiser from Staten Island comes rumbling down to the ring.
The bell rings and Keys immediately fires across the ring and socks Dickinson in the jaw with a running forearm smash. This knocks Dickinson back into the turnbuckle, but manages to stay on his feet. After the initial shock wears off, he smiles wildly and stands back up, inviting Keys to give him another. Keys obliges, and takes advantage with a series of big forearm strikes, before Dickinson suddenly grabs Keys and slams him to the mat with an amateur style wrestling slam. Dickinson gets back up and poses, before inviting Keys to get back to his feet as well. Keys jumps up and the two men exchange some words, Keys looking aggravated while Dickinson’s expression is a little more on the unhinged side. Keys hits the ropes and comes back with a shoulder block into Dickinson, who stands his ground and takes the shoulder block without budging. Keys shakes his head and hits the ropes again, coming back with another shoulder block. Again, this does not knock Dickinson off his feet. Keys gives it one more try, but he can’t get “The Dirty Daddy” to budge. After the third shoulder block isn’t successful at taking Dickinson down, Dickinson peppers Keys with a thunderous slap to the face that sends a mist of sweat flying through the air. This slap alone staggers Keys who falls to one knee before recovering. Dickinson runs off the ropes and comes back to clock Keys in the middle of the ring with a gnarly big boot that sends him straight to the mat. Dickinson places one foot on Keys’ chest for an overly confident pin, but Keys predictably kicks out at 2.
Dickinson hoists Keys up, and immediately tosses him over his shoulder into a powerslam position. He runs and smashes Keys into the corner Oklahoma Stampede style, and turns to deliver a running powerslam in the center of the ring. However, Keys is able to slip out of the back and land on his feet. Keys blasts Dickinson with a forearm to the back to the head, which seems to be his most effective shot of the match. He then quickly locks the burly brawler up in a full nelson. Keys cranks the hold, but Dickinson is just too powerful and manages to break the grip of Keys before throwing a back elbow that catches Keys in the jaw. Keys responds with yet another forearm blow to the back of the head, and again applies the full nelson. This time, he explodes through the hips and drops Dickinson on the back of his head and neck with a major snap dragon suplex!
Keys hops up to his feet, while Dickinson rolls to his knees. Dickinson looks up at Keys and laughs psychotically in the face of Keys. The other members of Violence Unlimited on the floor also chuckle, as Keys looks around distraught. He pulls Dickinson into a front facelock, but Dickinson just overpowers Keys, picking him up and charging him into the corner. Dickinson makes a lap around the ring and comes back to crush Keys with a big avalanche splash! He wastes no time wrangling Keys up and delivering a monstrous leg capture suplex that launches Keys right into the corner for an ugly collision. Dickinson grabs Keys by the wrists and pulls him out to the middle of the ring. He drops down and pins Keys' shoulders to the mat for the 1… 2… wait - Dickinson pulls Keys’ shoulder up to stop the pin.
“The Dirty Daddy” grins and nods his head, ready to deliver some more pain. He peels Keys up off the mat and throws him face down over the second rope. He steps on Keys’ back to press Keys’ wind pipe down across the middle rope. Dickinson locates the camera on the floor and stares down the lens with his tongue out as his stable-mates cheer on his savagery. The referee gets to 4 and then forcibly pulls Dickinson off of Keys. Dickinson feigns innocence before going back in for the attack, just delivering a savage thrust kick to the back of Keys’ head while he’s still draped over the rope. Dickinson then motions that the match is about to be over, before grabbing Keys and snapping off a painful looking high angle back suplex. With little more hesitation, he rolls Keys face down and cinches in a camel clutch! Keys fights with all he has, but the strength of Dickinson is impossible for him to overcome, as Dickinson wrenches back with his full might. Ultimately, Keys frantically taps out, desperate for any reprieve from Dickinson’s brutality.
OFFICIAL RESULT: Chris Dickinson defeats Joe Keys by submission (6:46)
It’s a win in the bag for Violence Unlimited and Chris Dickinson who has just sent a resounding and frightening message to the rest of Ring of Honor. Brody King, Tony Deppen and Homicide enter the ring to raise the hand of their comrade, as they stand triumphantly. In the corner, referee Todd Sinclair is checking up on the banged up Joe Keys when Brody King catches sight of it. Suddenly, he communicates something with the rest of his partners, and they make their way over to Keys. Deppen shoves Sinclair out of the way and all four men start to trample Keys with boots. Keys is defenseless, as King orders his men to lift him up out of the corner. Deppen and Homicide hold Keys up by his arms as King hits the rope and comes back with a lariat that nearly decapitates Keys! The product of The Dojo is left in a heap, and it looks like Violence Unlimited aren’t quite done with their beatdown just yet until suddenly The Foundation comes swarming out from the back. Violence Unlimited spots Gresham, Lethal, Titus and Williams coming down the ramp and decide to split. They slither out of the ring and take off over the guard rails as The Foundation secure the ring and allow Sinclair to tend to Keys. The scene comes to an end with consecutive shots of King and Lethal exchanging some words from a distance, as Violence Unlimited retreat to the shadows of the arena... |
Backstage now, we come upon “The Most Wanted” Bandido and Rey Horus standing by ahead of their tag team contest in the main event. Notably absent is Flamita, who has recently developed a major chip on his shoulder and even challenged Bandio and Horus to a triple threat at the 19th Anniversary, where he would ultimately be pinned by Bandido. Since walking out of that match and refusing to shake the hands of Bandido and Horus, their alliance seems to be on the rocks. Horus starts things out.
Rey Horus: You know, all great teams have faced their own struggles. And just like those great teams of the past, we will grow from our adversities, and rise above again and again. Some people are saying that the MexiSquad imploded at the 19th Anniversary. That is not the case.
Bandido cuts in.
Bandido: Si, MexiSquad did not implode. Flamita imploded!
Horus seems somewhat caught off guard by this comment.
Bandido: MexiSquad could not succeed with Flamita because he put himself before the group. He believed his goals were more important than the collective success of MexiSquad. Well, we put up with that long enough! Horus and I deserve better and after Flamita’s action at the 19th Anniversary, he can consider this partnership DEAD! MUERTE!
Bandido puts his arm around the shoulder of Horus and pulls him in.
Bandido: The future is bright for Bandido and Rey Horus though. Tonight, we’ve got to take care of The Bouncers. Though they are large in size, they do not possess the same corazon in here.
He taps on his chest, over his heart.
Bandido: The Mexican lucha libre spirit resides in us, and with our nation on our back, Bandio and Rey Horus will show the world that the future of honor… is Latino!
Bandido enthusiastically pats Horus on the chest and takes off. Horus has a somewhat averse expression on his face, but follows behind his partner as we fade from the scene.
|
From one backstage promo to another, we flash elsewhere in the bowels of the arena where Violence Unlimited is crowded together, looking generally menacing. Brody King is pacing back and forth in the foreground. He stops, and stares right into the camera.
Brody King: Haha! Tonight, Ring of Honor got just a little taste of the destruction that Violence Unlimited will soon unleash on the entire company! The way Chris Dickinson steamrolled Joe Keys… if these are the kind of men who were meant to be carrying Ring of Honor into the future, then maybe we’re doing this company a favor by tearing it all to the ground!
Violence Unlimited laughs sadistically in unison.
Brody King: Let’s address the elephant in the room though, shall we? The Foundation! Obviously we are diametrically opposed in our visions for this company. You want everyone to play nice… you want good, clean fun, huh? So-called “pure wrestling” reigning supreme? Wake the hell up! Look around you! The world isn’t fair! It isn’t a playground, boys, it’s a damned war zone out there! It’s time for you all to realize that the world doesn’t abide by your little arbitrary code of ethics and the era of wrestling “for sport” is a thing of the past.
King shakes his head.
Brody King: From now on, whoever steps in the ring with one of us, better be ready to FIGHT for their [bleep]ing lives! It’s time for Ring of Honor to evolve to a new era of brutality and we don’t care if we have to drag this company into the future kicking and screaming… ultimately, violence WILL reign supreme! Now you probably want to get a shot at us, Foundation, and that’s perfectly understandable. But, WE will be the ones to decide when and where the brutality takes place because WE are the harbingers of violence and no one does violence like VIOLENCE UNLIMITED!
The band of bruisers roll out, as the scene dissolves to the ring.
|
DANHAUSEN vs. BRIAN JOHNSON
Following the usual spookily bizarre entrance of Danhausen and the usual self-confident entrance of Brian Johnson, we get straight down to business when the bell rings.
Johnson goes for a lock up early, but Danhausen counters with a go-behind and shoves the back of Johnson’s head before posing triumphantly. Johnson takes not-so-kindly to this, and turns around and charges Danhausen for a clothesline, but Danhausen pulls “The Mecca” down with a fujiwara armbar. Danhausen relinquishes the hold and then steps on Johnson’s back, before doing a bow. Johnson scurries back up, points at Danhausen and tells him he’s had enough. Johnson shoots in for a single leg takedown, but Danhusen is able to counter with an enziguri. Johnson tumbles down and rolls from the ring, holding the back of his head. Danhausen heads to the apron and does his tequila dance before nailing Johnson with a stiff kick to the chin. Johnson staggers around and comes back, where Danhausen splats him again with another kick. Furious, Johnson climbs to the apron and comes face to face with Danhausen. Danhhausen looks around, as Johnson stares angrily at him. Finally, Danhausen just shrugs and gives Johnson a poke to the eye! Danhausen then pull Johnson up on his shoulders in a fireman’s carry, but Johnson slides off, and lands inside the ring. He grabs Danhausen around his neck and pulls him back, leaning him against the top rope. He delivers clubbing blow after clubbing blow to Danhausen’s chest, as the chest of the “Very Nice, Very Evil” superstar begins to turn a crimson red. Referee Joe Mandak is able to pull Johnson away at last, but Johnson quickly charges back in to deliver a hip attack to Danhausen’s back, which sends Danhausen careening into the barricade.
Johnson drops to the outside where he continues the assault on Danhausen, dropping him chest first on the barricade and leaning him against the apron to unload some knife edge chops. Back in the ring, Johnson takes a more grounded approach, tangling Danhausen up in a number of holds. Each time Danhausen is able to counter out of one, Johnson pulls him into something else. This continues for a moment until Johnson transitions out of a wrist lock into a crucifix pin on Danhausen. Danhausen escapes the pin at two, by rolling backwards out of it and back up to his feet. Danhausen then stumbles back into the corner and, as Johnson comes rushing in, Danhausen cracks him with a pump kick square in the jaw. Danhausen hops to the middle rope where he grabs Johnson into a front facelock and goes for a tornado DDT. Johnson counters, shoving Danhausen off of him mid-rotation. He then catches the evil one with a running knee strike that elicits a big “ooh” from the commentators. Johnson goes for the pin once more, but is once again only able to get the two-count!
As the match wages on into deeper waters and both men begin to look visibly bushed, an exchange of elbows takes place, as each man stands in the middle of the ring and swings on each other. After both men begin to wobble from the strikes, Johnson runs off the ropes but Danhausen catches him with a hip toss. Johnson rushes back to his feet, but Danhausen snatches him over with a deep arm drag. As both men rush back up, Johnson is quicker on the draw and takes Danhausen over with an arm drag of his own. Once more, both competitors get up simultaneously. Johnson takes a big swing, but Danhausen ducks, grabbing Johnson quickly around the waist and going for a German suplex. However, Johnson is able to backflip and land on his feet out of the suplex. As Danhausen stands back up, Johnson nails him with an uppercut that causes Danhausen to tumble between the ropes and to the apron. Not wasting time, Johnson grabs Danhausen from the apron and pulls him between the ropes, leaving his feet draped on the middle rope and spiking him into the mat with a rope hung DDT! Johnson attempts another pinfall, but Danhausen is too tenacious to go out just yet, as he gets a shoulder up before the three!
Johnson smacks the ring furiously and gets in the referee’s face demanding the win. This buys Danhausen a bit of time to recover and when Johnson goes to pull Danhausen up, Danhausen lifts Johnson and sheer drops him on the top rope with a stun gun! The maneuver has Johnson disoriented as Danhausen fires up. He hits the ropes and comes back to blast Johnson with a basement dropkick right in the mush. He measures up Johnson, who works his way up to his feet. Danhausen pulls Johnson up in a fireman’s carry and goes for the always-lethal GTS, but Johnson is able to counter it at the very last second by catching Danhausen’s knee. He spins Danhausen around in a full 360 and then puts a boot into Danhausen’s gut. Johnson grabs Danhausen in a hangman’s position and then spins him out into a facebuster - TRUST THE PROCESS! Johnson hooks the leg, and the referee drops to the canvas to count the 1, 2, 3! The bell rings and Johnson immediately throws a fist in the air in celebration.
OFFICIAL RESULT: Brian Johnson defeats Danhausen by pinfall (8:29)
Brian Johnson immediately demands a microphone after making it back to his feet. He begins speaking through deep breaths.
Brian Johnson: First thing’s first, get this chump out The Mecca’s ring!
Johnson walks over to where Mandak is checking on Danhausen and rolls Danhausen out of the ring using his foot. He takes back the center of the ring.
Brian Johnson: Now, I hope I have everyone’s attention! Two weeks ago at the 19th Anniversary Show I defeated Eli Isom, Leon St. Giovanni and that GOOF Danhausen to stake my claim for the ROH Television Championship. After tonight, I don’t want to hear any more chatter about ‘oh, is Brian Johnson the real deal?’... The proof is in the pudding, and my time is now! I don’t want any more excuses, and I don’t want any more holdups. Tonight, I’m throwing down the gauntlet!
Johnson gets close-up with a floor cam.
Brian Johnson: TRACY WILLIAMS! You owe me a title shot, you understand!?
Johnson taps his wrist, imitating a wristwatch.
Brian Johnson: The clock is ticking on your title reign, Hot Sauce! You name the time and place, and I’ll be there to beat you from pillar to post and take that belt! But don’t keep me waiting too long, Tracy. ‘Cause I’ll find you. And it doesn’t matter to me if I have to take down Jay Lethal, Jon Gresham, Rhett Titus or anyone else, I WILL get what’s mine… ‘cause it’s MECCA… versus… EVERYBODY!
The incendiary Brian Johnson drops the microphone and poses with his arm spread, before heading out of the ring. Ian and Caprice remark that Johnson is in fact the number 1 contender for the TV Title, so we will indeed be seeing him take on Tracy Williams before too long! |
From the ringside area, we flash immediately to the designated interview area backstage at the UMBC Event Center where Quinn McKay is standing by with Maria Kanellis-Bennett.
Quinn McKay: I'm Quinn McKay, here backstage with Board of Directors member Maria Kanellis-Bennett, who at the 19th Anniversary Show announced the relaunch of the women's division and a tournament to determine the first ever Ring of Honor Women's World Champion. Maria, the floor is yours…
Quinn excitedly tilts the microphone in Maria's direction, Maria acknowledges Quinn with a sincere smile.
Maria Kanellis-Bennett: Thank you Quinn. Well, I don't think anyone could have predicted the past year and as a result, our plans to bring the women's division back to the forefront of Ring of Honor were unfortunately put on hold. But, in true Ring of Honor style, that didn't deter us. No. Instead, the Board of Directors appointed me as the official consultant to the women's division, which in turn has allowed me to begin proceedings to create the best women's division on the planet. Times are changing here at Ring of Honor and I've been listening to the fans on social media and I am here to announce that starting from next Wednesday, our all-female programming will resume live and free on YouTube! For seven weeks, fans will be reacquainted with some familiar faces, as well as some brand new ones before the tournament itself kickstarts the week following The Return! Now, things are still not quite where they used to be, so I ask that you're all patient. Not everyone will earn the right to fight for the championship. However, we will crown the first ever Ring of Honor Women's World Champion at Death Before Dishonor and women's wrestling will be here to stay!
Quinn clenches up with excitement, a smile beams from her face.
Quinn McKay: Now I know that you're working with your team and you've already given us loads! But, any ideas on potential names? I mean, is there a sign-up sheet?
Maria Kanellis-Bennett: Now, Quinn, I know what you're doing here but all I can say is we're watching a lot of tapes, we want to make sure that we have the best women possible, starting with.....
Quinn leans forward in anticipation, until...
???: Just put her out of her misery already, Maria!
A commotion can be heard, cutting Maria off. Quinn rolls her eyes and sighs heavily as Angelina Love and Mandy Leon, The Allure, walk on-screen.
Angelina Love: You best be about to announce one of our names if you know what's good for business, Maria. I mean, what do we have to do to get some airtime around here?
Mandy Leon: And the last time I checked, Quinn isn't even a wrestler here, she's just the human mic-stand.
Mandy arches her eyebrow and folds her arms while the usually-excitable interviewer grows increasingly agitated.
Angelina Love: That’s exactly right! Remind us Quinn, how many matches have you won exactly?
Quinn shakes her head disapprovingly as she closes her eyes and whispers to herself.
Quinn McKay: Think relaxing thoughts. Think relaxing thoughts. THINK. RELAXING. THOUGHTS.
Maria taps on Angelina's shoulder and steps forward, creating physical difference between the two sides. Quinn meanwhile tries to take deep breaths to calm herself down.
Maria Kanellis-Bennett: Excuse me, I was kinda in the middle of something here. Oh and the last time I checked, Quinn has been training in the Ring of Honor Dojo under a developmental contract, which may I add, makes her eligible for contention...
Quinn stops, her hopes building again.
Maria Kanellis-Bennett: IF that's what we decide. Now I've seen what's been going on over the past year between you three. The snipes, the tweets. the attacks… and I just have to say… WOW!
Maria points her tone in the direction of The Allure, who look at each other, feeling pretty smug.
Angelina Love: You're welcome!
Maria Kanellis-Bennett: No, you see Angelina, I don't think you're quite getting the point. Everything I've witnessed is NOT what I want for this division. It goes against everything that this company stands for.
Angelina Love: And I guess you would know what this company stands for from all the times you stood at ringside, watching your husband do all the work huh?
Maria Kanellis-Bennett: That's cute Angelina, but again, I think you're forgetting what company you work for right now because you've certainly forgotten who you're speaking to right now. The Allure have had their fun but I suggest the two of you tread lightly if you want to enter the tournament.
Mandy and Angelina look at each other and roll their eyes.
Mandy Leon: Maria, you're clearly confused. You were just about to announce us as the first participants for the tournament.
Mandy patronizingly places her hand on Maria's shoulder to comfort her. Maria chuckles and removes The Exotic Goddess' hands.
Maria Kanellis-Bennett: Cute Mandy, real cute. Actually, I was going to announce the first entrant into the tournament but that can wait until next week. But, given how enthusiastic the two of you are about competing and, of course, how long it's been since the two of you have stepped inside the ring… I'm going to give you an opportunity. One of you...
Angelina immediately steps forward. Mandy makes an attempt to fight her case but is easily upstaged.
Angelina Love: ME! Me! Sorry Mandy, but I am the seven time Women's World Champion and well… I am the living legend.
Maria Kanellis-Bennett: Well then it's decided, the very first main event of Women's Division Wednesdays is set. I think we're all done here!
Maria goes to depart but Angelina taps her on the shoulder.
Maria Kanellis-Bennett: What's that, sorry?
Angelina Love: Umm hello? Forgetting something? My opponent maybe?
Maria Kanellis-Bennett: Oh right! Your opponent. How could I forget!? Although I thought it was obvious, your opponent is… right here!
Maria gestures to Quinn, who appeared to still be practicing her wellness exercises until she notices the camera has panned round towards her.
Quinn McKay: Wait. WHAT!?
Quinn can hardly contain herself, a mixture of fear and excitement dawn on her as she looks off camera, expecting someone to tell her it's a dream or cruel prank.
Mandy Leon: Her!?
Angelina goes to hush Mandy, not as disgusted as one would expect.
Angelina Love: Challenge accepted! Hmm. Maybe I'll tie a hand around my back to give you a fighting chance Quinny!
Angelina cackles cruelly.
Maria Kanellis-Bennett: That won't be necessary. But just to up the anté… whoever wins the match will automatically win the right to join the fight in the ROH World Women's Championship tournament.
Quinn McKay: Thank you so much Maria, I won't let you down!
Maria places her hand on Quinn's shoulder to comfort her and wishes her luck before walking away from the interview pit. Angelina steps up to the interviewer, with only the microphone between them now.
Angelina Love: Aww buttercup, how cute. Are all your dreams coming true? Well I'm sorry to break it to you but once we've finished with you, you won't even have the capacity to hold your little microphone, let alone fight for the championship!
Quinn pouts and scrunches her nose, not backing down from the threat of the former seven-time women's champion. Angelina flicks her hair in the face of the interviewer, as Mandy laughs and follows suit.
|
Cutting away from the interview pit, we find the entirety of The Foundation stationed backstage in front of some crates, stage lights and forklifts. They all look particularly displeased, and it’s Tracy Williams who is standing front and center.
Tracy Williams: Seems like everywhere The Foundation looks, there’s someone else trying to get a shot at us. Well hey, that’s just fine with us! We set out to be the standard bearers of this organization and that means the onus is on us to always be on the frontlines, taking on all challengers, and proving that the phrase “Honor is Real” is more than just a catchy tagline!
The members of The Foundation all nod their heads in agreement. Lethal even pats Williams on the back.
Tracy Williams: Violence Unlimited, we are not intimidated by you! You resort to bullying and barbarism because you can’t do what we do, and that’s compete with the best pro wrestlers on the planet, straight up, no gimmicks! When the time comes where you all finally summon up the courage to take on The Foundation like men, we will be waiting!
Jonathan Gresham: Mhm.
Tracy Williams: Brian Johnson, you want a shot at me? Say no more. You ARE the number one contender after all, and although loud mouths such as yourself are usually all bark and no bite, you have proven to be a worthwhile competitor. So, how’s this sound? You and me, two weeks from tonight, at the 500th episode of Ring of Honor Wrestling. This title right here on the line!
Williams slaps the World Television Title strapped around his waist.
Tracy Williams: And you know what? The Foundation isn't about to rest on our laurels. Not even a little bit. So, I want to take this opportunity to ask Ring of Honor management to find me and Rhett some challengers for the World Tag Team Titles as well. We want the best competition that wrestling has to offer, so whoever you’ve got - BRING. IT. ON!
Williams smiles into the camera. The rest of The Foundation all nod and chatter in agreement with Hot Sauce’s words, as the scene fades to darkness.
|
BANDIDO and REY HORUS vs. THE BOUNCERS w/ KEN DIXON
Back in the ring, we find the contestants of the main event have already found their way to the ring and are awaiting the bell, as Bandido and Horus stand across the ring from The Bouncers who are getting some last minute motivation from their pedagogue Ken Dixon.
Referee Todd Sinclair calls for the bell. Bandido and Rey Horus extend their hands to shake but instead Beer City Bruiser stomps on Horus' foot. Bandido sees red and tries to get at the team of powerhouses. Caprice points out that Ken Dixon, who is at ringside, has been feeding this more aggressive side to The Bouncers in the hopes of paving their way towards the Ring of Honor World Tag Team Championships. Sinclair holds Bandido back and instructs him to go back to his corner as Brian Milonas and BCB send Horus to the ropes and attempt a double clothesline, which Horus manages to flip over and rebounds off the rope with another flip when they attempt the move again. Bandido retreats to his corner, allowing Sinclair to warn Milonas out of the ring. The distraction allows Horus to take advantage as he delivers a low dropkick to the feet of Beer City Bruiser, bringing him to his knees.
Rey Horus comes off the ropes again, looking to hit the headscissors but even when wounded, the power of Beer City Bruiser is too much as he throws Horus across the ring. Ian and Caprice are left astounded when Horus manages to land on his feet and duck under Bruiser again and then leap frog a forearm attempt. BCB waits and grabs Horus, throwing him into the ropes and delivering a clubbing blow to the ribs of his opponent. Ian points out that while Horus and Bandido have the speed advantage, The Bouncers are able to swat their opponents down and cut them off with their strength. Beer City Bruiser lifts Horus up and charges him into the corner, turning and delivering a back elbow, followed by a second as Dixon applauds on the outside.
Beer City Bruiser looks around the arena as he makes the tag to Milonas and takes a run up to Horus with a vicious cannonball! Milonas then charges with a big-time hip attack before dragging Horus out for the pin. The pin gets to a two, as Bandido almost has to jump in to break up the count, however Horus is able to get the shoulder up on his own before the three. Dixon tells Milonas to "leave his mark" as he makes the bold move to climb to the second rope. However, the big man takes too long which allows Horus to hit a superkick! Milonas is dazed but manages to stay on the second rope. Horus then manages to throw Milonas back down to the mat with a crashing thud. Horus climbs the ropes but allows himself to get distracted by Ken Dixon on the floor, which allows Beer City Bruiser to charge and shove Horus off from the top rope to the outside of the ring! Sinclair scolds Dixon and warns Bruiser back as Bandido checks on his partner. Sinclair begins the count to 20 as we head to commercial break…
Back from the commercial, Bruiser is back in the ring having got the tag in the interim. He approaches Horus, who has made it to the apron and goes to throw him back into the ring. However, Horus performs an entire front flip to land back on his feet… PUMP KICK! He dives and manages to make the tag to Bandido, who jumps the top rope and kicks Bruiser in the gut before sweeping the legs to ground the big man. Bandido seizes the opportunity to hit a beautiful springboard moonsault for the cover. 1… 2… NO! Bruiser stays alive as he rolls over to the ropes and tries to get his way to his feet while Bandido makes his next move.
“Tag!” Sinclair calls as Horus tags himself back into the match, despite taking some damage earlier in the match. Riccaboni speculates whether Horus and Bandido are on the same page after the dissolution of the MexiSquad stable and the follow-up triple threat match at the 19th Anniversary Show. Horus runs and delivers a tiger feint kick in the corner. Bandido spins Horus round as it looks like there's some tension between the luchadors. Dixon licks his lips on the outside, seeing the rift seemingly forming.
Horus then suddenly takes a run at Bandido and goes for a tilt-a-whirl headscissors, but Bandido then launches Horus out of the headscissors and onto The Bruiser for a big DDT! Horus struggles back to his feet and high-fives Bandido, with the whole thing looking to be a ruse. Bandio gets back to his corner and Horus tags him back in, the team deliberately not allowing BCB any breathing room. Bandido chops Bruiser against the ropes but as he goes for the second, Bruiser grabs the wrist and tags Milonas into the ring. The Bouncers powerfully throw Bandido backwards into their turnbuckle with a crash! Bruiser then manages to hit a big splash in the corner and whips Bandido into Milonas for a spinning sidewalk slam! Milonas makes the cover, all 400+ pounds of him pressing down on Bandio, but no! He only gets the two-count.
Somehow Bandido manages to kick out. Milonas makes Bandido pay with a running leg drop as he covers again, though he is still only able to draw a two! Dixon looks furious as he barks at Milonas to end this thing. Milonas grabs Bandido by the throat and pulls him to his feet, but Bandido manages to hit a jawbreaker followed by a sudden high knee! Looking to play to his strengths, Bandido takes Milonas off his feet with a springboard Tornilla! Milonas uses the ropes to get to his feet, as Bandido attempts his signature crucifix pin, however Milonas helicopters it into a big backbreaker.
Bruiser tags in, and The Bouncers bring Bandido to his feet against the ropes. Milonas goes to throw a lariat but Bandido dodges and pulls the top rope down causing Milonas to roll to the outside! Bruiser takes a swing as well, but Bandido ducks and hits a dropkick to knock Bruiser off his feet. Bandido then makes the tag to Horus before running the ropes and using Bruiser's body to launch off of and hit a Fosbury Flop onto Milonas on the floor! Horus then takes to the top rope to come flying at Beer City Bruiser, but Bruiser counters Horus mid-air and drives him into the mat with a sitout chokebomb! Bruiser secures a cover - 1… 2… Kick out!
On the floor, Dixon yells at Milonas to get back up. Bandido is able to recover and make it back to his own corner. In the ring, Bruiser begins to lumber his way up the ropes while mocking Bandido with his taunt as he looks across the ring. The super heavyweight comes off the top rope for a FROG SPLASH on Horus, but NO… Horus gets the KNEES UP! Bruiser recoils and writhes in pain. Milonas manages to get to his corner and make the blind tag to get himself in the match. He pulls Horus back from making the tag and locks in a waistlock but Horus manages to wriggle free and ducks through the legs for a tag. Bandido launches straight in with another springboard Tornilla but Milonas catches and hits a poweslam! He follows up with a running senton but misses as Bandido rolls out of the way! Brian Milonas uses the ropes to get back to his feet. Bandido goes for the attack but Dixon holds his feet, cutting off “The Most Wanted” mid-offense.
Horus goes to the floor to handle Dixon, but he’s met by BCB as the two illegal men begin brawling on the outside. Inside, Milonas is still recovering and Bandido refocuses his attack, as he connects with running double knees to the back! Milonas is vulnerable and Bandido senses there's blood in the water as he performs his famous shooting guns taunt. Bandido gets Milonas lined up and hits an ALMIGHTY 21 PLEX! Commentary are STUNNED as BANDIDO HAS JUST PERFORMED A SLINGSHOT GERMAN SUPLEX ON THE BEHEMOTH! Bandido even manages to keep Milonas stacked with a bridge, as the referee makes the count. 1… 2… 3! It’s over!
OFFICIAL RESULT: Bandio and Rey Horus defeat The Bouncers by pinfall (12:01)
Todd Sinclair calls for the bell as Dixon looks angered at the result. Rey Horus rolls back into the ring and celebrates with Bandido, the referee raising both their arms in victory. It appears that Bandido and Horus are stronger than ever as Ian and Caprice prepare to wrap up the show, until a familiar theme begins playing…
And indeed, out comes "El Toro Blanco", the ROH World Champion RUSH decked out in his signature all-white suit and his bull mask that he's been known to wear in his entrances. Bandido and Horus gather together in the ring and look up the ramp at RUSH, who stands with a big devious grin. The champion then removes his mask, and has a long staredown with Bandido and Horus from the stage. At last, he brings the microphone up to his mouth.
RUSH: ¡Felicidades por su victoria mis amigos! You two are very impressive, I will admit. And that is why I am so pleased to come out here, and make this announcement.
Bandido and Horus look at each other, wondering what RUSH has up his sleeve. The champ raises his hand, pointing to Bandido. Bandido looks around curiously.
RUSH: Bandido! I was just contacted by Cary Silkin who informed me of who I will be facing at The Return…
Bandido looks surprised, and points to himself with a quizzical expression.
RUSH: That's right cabrón. The ROH Board of Directors have appointed you the new number 1 contender for this, MY Ring of Honor World Championship!
RUSH slaps the belt that is draped over his title.
RUSH: I wanted to be the first to congratulate you, Bandio. 2 years ago at the 17th Anniversary Show, I defeated you. You and I were both new to Ring of Honor, and it was me who won the match and me who would become World Champion! Now, I see you have grown. You are finally making a man out of yourself. May 22nd in Dallas, it will be me and you, one on one, and I will find out firsthand what kind of cajones you've got on you!
Bandido shakes his head, with his muffled speech being heard slightly through his mask.
RUSH: You bring me your very best, Bandido! You know that I will show NO mercy on you cabrón. I do not care that we come from the same heritage and culture… Ring of Honor is MY empire! I will fight to the end to defend what is MINE!
RUSH tosses the microphone down and turns his back to exit. But before he can disappear to the back, Bandido calls out to him over the microphone.
Bandido: RUSH… RUSH… retorno!
Stopping in his tracks, the ROH World Champion turns back.
Bandido: Aye, I respect you, RUSH. You have created a legacy for our people here in Ring of Honor by being one of the greatest champions of all time! But, you need to realize something… I am your greatest challenge! I have made my mark here in ROH, just as you have, and the final thing I need to do to solidify my own legacy is win that championship! At The Return on May 22nd, I am going to do just that! Estoy listo, and I’m going to tell you right now that if you overlook me… it will be the greatest mistake you ever make!
Bandido drops the mic, as Horus pats him on the back and talks him up. RUSH stands with a snarling look on his face for a moment before turning away and receding to the back. |
Ian and Caprice now send us off the air, announcing that Tracy Williams’ request to find worthy Tag Team Title challengers is being honored by ROH management. They reveal that there will be a four team tournament starting next week to decide who will face Williams and Titus for the belts down the line, and the teams that will be entered into this tournament will be revealed on this week’s ROH Week by Week with Quinn McKay. They thank the fans for tuning in once more, and invite everyone back next week for more Ring of Honor wrestling!
|
•
|
