(11/8/21) Monday Night Clash

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God's Plan by Drake hits the speakers and the girls swoon as the men hate with jealousy. Mason Jones comes out with a bath towel wrapped around his lower half and poses on the ramp. He takes the towel off and spins it around his fingers and throws it in the crowd after wiping his body with it. He runs the rest of the trip down the ramp and slides into the ring and humps the canvas twice and then pops up. He goes to the turnbuckles and points out at the crowd and then points at himself and declares him one of the best to ever do it. He jumps down and stretches his leg one at a time on the middle turnbuckle and winks at some of the woman. Hes ready for the bell.


Billy: Mason Jones got some advice from Jayson Price earlier tonight, maybe it'll pay off!

Chris Avery: We'll have to see!

The lights goes out, and we hear the record scratching, then once "I get Real Raw" is heard JB comes out to the stage with the lights on as the song plays on the iron. He then stands at the entrance way, looking at the crowd and walks down to the ramp and gives everyone some daps. Then he slides into the ring, and stands at the corner and taunts to everyone. Then he stands in the middle of the ring as his theme cuts off.

Billy: John Black has the Television Championship and now he's ready to defend it tonight!

Chris Avery: This should be good!

DING DING DING

Jones grabs Black and hits a few chops before sending him back into the turnbuckle with a boot to the gut and a huge right hand. He whips Black out of the corner into the opposite turnbuckle and lets Black stumble out and hits a scoop slam! Jones stomps on Black and lifts him back up hitting a suplex! Jones goes for a cover!

ONE!

TWO!

Black kicks out. Jones grabs Black and hits a few chops and sends him to the ropes and goes for a clothesline! Black ducks and lets Jones turn around and hits a dropkick! Jones goes down to the canvas before rolling to his knees where Black meets him with a kick to the head! Black pins Jones!

ONE!

TWO!

Jones gets a shoulder out and rolls to the corner where Black helps him to his feet just to whip him out of the corner into the other turnbuckles hitting a powerslam! Black pins Jones!

One!

Two!

Jones gets another shoulder up.

Billy: Black trying to put Jones away early!

Chris Avery: Jones gets a shoulder up!

This time Black picks up Jones and goes for a suplex but Jones gets out of it and hits A Price Check! Black is out! Jones covers!

One!

Two!

Thre-

NO!!

Billy: BLACK KICKS OUT OF THE PRICE CHECK!! JONES USED THE PRICE CHECK!!

Chris Avery: PRICE IS GIVING MASON JONES MOVES NOW?!

Jones whips Black to the ropes and goes for a kick but Black catches the boot and whips Jones around and hits JIGGY PIGGY SLAM! Black has him down for the count!

ONE!!

TWO!!

MASON JONES KICKS OUT!

Billy: WOW! I DIDNT THINK JONES COULD KICK OUT!

Chris Avery: Ths match got hot!

Black lifts Jones to his feet and goes for another suplex but Jones gets out of it one more time! This time Jones whips Black to the ropes and goes for a clothesline but Black ducks underneath, he turns Jones around and lifts him up on his shoulders and hits THE BLACK LIST!

Billy: THE BLACK LIST!

Chris Avery: JONES IS DOWN!

Black covers!

One!

Two!

Three!

DING DING DING

Billy: JOHN BLACK IS STILL TELEVISION CHAMPION!

Chris Avery: WHAT A TITLE DEFENSE!

Black gets up, grabs his Television Championship and goes to the turnbuckles and raises the belt in the air. The crowd goes crazy!

Billy: John Black is a fighting Champion, he's representing this division and Championship title belt well!

John Black gets off the turnbuckles and Mason Jones is standing, holding his head and neck. He fist bumps Black and rolls out of the ring.

Black's music hits a second time in a row as Mason rolls out and Black goes back to the turnbuckles and raises the belt up in the air!

Chris Avery: What a TV title match!

Billy: We'll be back on Monday Night Clash, presented by Pepsi!

We come back from commercial and see Kyle Kemp sauntering out of his locker room. He is dressed for his match with Teo Blaze and has the World Title draped across his shoulder. Jade Riley is waiting outside.

Jade Riley: Kyle! I have to ask you how you feel about what just happened in the ring. Who do you think should be the number one contender?

Kemp smirks.

Kyle Kemp: Why should I care? Those three are going to do what they do best and that’s make excuses and make claims they cannot back up. I would beat each one of them if I faced them in the ring! I own all three of them!

Jade Riley: But technically you lost to Jill Park last week.

The smirk disappears as Kemp puts his finger in Jade's face.

Kyle Kemp: You and I both know that was bullshit! She didn’t beat me. That idiot Dandy DiVito rang the bell for no reason to cost me the match. I didn’t tap! I didn’t give up! In fact I was just about to reverse her stupid ankle lock and choke her the fuck out.

Jade Riley: It didn’t look that way to me.

Kyle Kemp: And that’s why you are back here and not out there! I know what it takes to win and I know I would beat all three of them! I’ve beaten Jill and Dandy multiple times and Carter has been ducking me for over a year because he knows I can and will beat him. Hell I think Torture was helping them out. Wrestler of the Year is a big deal but so is the World Title. I don’t care if I’m still in the tournament or not. I could beat all three of them AND win Wrestler of the Year!

Jade Riley is about to say something but backs up as someone comes up behind Kemp. Kemp turns around and is face to face with Torture who is smiling.

Torture: You really had me fooled Kemp. I figured you would use Wrestler of the Year as a way of getting out of defending that title but it sounds to me that you really want to do the title justice and defend it at Turmoil. I commend that! In fact that’s the answer I was hoping for from you!

Kemp tilts his head and looks at Torture uneasily. He knows something is coming.

Torture: That is because since you are so eager to defend that title you will be defending the World Title at Turmoil!

Kyle Kemp: Against?

Torture: Well you said it yourself! You can beat all three of them so instead of making the tough decision of picking one of them, I’m going to pick all of them!

The crowd pops!

Torture: You are going to face Jill Park, Carter Shaw and Dandy DiVito at Turmoil in a Four Way Elimination match and that match will be for the World Title... and if you or the other three get to the finals.. they'll be working twice that night! Ha! All on you!

Torture slaps Kemp on the back and walks away as Kemp stares straight ahead, wondering what he just got himself into.

---

Adilene Floyd: The following is a first-round matchup in the Wrestler of the Year tournament scheduled for ONE FALL! Introducing first, accompanied by Zooey... he weighs in at 210 lbs... SAM KIDSGROVE!!

As the opening riff to “Unity” by Shinedown echoes around the arena. Strobe lights pulse along with the beat. As soon as the drums begin, fire shoots up from the sides of the stage in time with them.

Zooey Deschanel, wearing a cute dress and looking like sunshine walks out first, she looks out at all sections of the crowd and nods in time with the music, her face beaming with positive energy. Kidsgrove joins her and puts his arm over her shoulder, bringing her in for a tender kiss. They then start to walk down the ramp, speaking to people in the front row, signing autographs, taking selfies, kissing babies, hi fiving and generally making sure that everyone can get a memento of meeting them. This takes a while.

Eventually they make it to the ring area. Kidsgrove jumps to the apron first and lowers the rope for Zooey to get into the ring. When she does, they both immediately go to opposite corners and stand in the middle turnbuckle, posing for the crowd. Kidsgrove doing the “Hey, I know you” or the “Double guns” where Zooey is blowing kisses and waving at people who have their signs or look friendly. They do this again on other turnbuckles and high five each other when they go past.

Deschanel then exits the ring after Kidsgrove again holds the rope for her and proceeds to take selfies and high five people at ringside as Kidsgrove smiles at her, then winks and gets ready for action.

Chris Avery: It's been a few months since we've seen Kidsgrove in action, after the disappointment of being pinned at Uprising. But you know he would like to bounce back into title contention, and he would love to add the illustrious accolade of Wrestler of the Year to his CV.

Billy: To do that, he's gonna have to go through one of his rivals!

Adilene Floyd: And his opponent, weighing in at 220 lbs... he is one-half of the AW Tag Team Champions... DOWNFALL!!

The arena lights dim, as the crowd goes silent and a blazing neon-red Anarchy symbol appears on the tron, which then transitions into the symbol becoming the A in Downfall's name. Then, as the jumbotron begins playing images of shots of Downfall hitting various kicks and signature moves, the opening drum rhythm to "Mainlining Murder" begins.

"Don't touch me baby your fingertips, they feel like pins across my skin

Just light another cigarette so I don't regret, inviting you over

Well don't hold my hand or I'll punch your face

I'm a hungry rat in this hole I waste

There's no blood to taste in this awful place

I'm mainlining murder!

I'm mainlining murder!!"

As the music is kicking in harder, Downfall's head is bowed, and he kneels one knee on the stage, tracing the fingers of his right hand across the ramp, then he slowly raises his head to look at the ring. He then shoots his fist towards the ring and shouts out to the crowd. The arena lights brighten, and then, he begins his walk down to the ring, holding his arms out to take in the reaction of the crowd. He's earned a respectful pop from the smart marks in the crowd. He cracks his neck to the side in an aggressive manner and flaps his hands out at his sides in the manner of someone just itching to get their hands dirty, and as Lars' voice reaches the roughest note of the bridge he slides in the ring, walks over to the ropes and balances himself on the second rope, and then he holds his arms up in a crossed-wrist X symbol. Then he hops down, takes off his vest, and stretches for the match.

Chris Avery: Downfall has been on a HELL of a run lately, with Dion at his side they've taken on all comers for their Tag titles, and last week, he was the deciding factor in the war for AW's soul... the deciding pinfall in Hellimination, pinning Ash Blake!

Billy: He's been kicking ass and taking names, alright, and been walking the right road... but you gotta know he wants his reward!

Both men meet in the ring and they immediately start jawing at each other. Downfall pushes Kidsgrove back, then Kidsgrove comes back with a couple of rights to the head. Downfall backs Kidsgrove up into the ropes and he connects with a couple boots to the midsection. Downfall goes for an Irish whip but Kidsgrove reverses it. Downfall bounces off the ropes and right into a shoulder block. Downfall gets up and Kidsgrove puts him in a hammerlock. Kidsgrove wrenches the arm, but Downfall catches him with a back elbow with his free arm. Downfall bounces off the ropes and he gets takes down with a hip toss. Downfall gets to his feet, but then he stops short of rushing at Kidsgrove. Kidsgrove taps his temple with an infuriating smirk, as if to say “I’m too smart for you.”

Chris Avery: I think that Kidsgrove, on some level, is aware that he has a slightly irritating presence, and how to use it to his advantage.

Billy: Hopefully not to get his face punched into custard in the meantime!

Kidsgrove and Downfall circle around, and then they lock up. Kidsgrove slaps on a side headlock. Kidsgrove applies pressure to the head as Downfall tries to fight out of it. Downfall pushes Kidsgrove off and into the ropes. Downfall tags Kidsgrove in the mouth with a standing dropkick. Both men roll to their feet, and Kidsgrove nods his head in approval. He motions for Downfall to come on again. Downfall goes for a rolling elbow, but Kidsgrove takes the initiative, snap suplexing Downfall down to the canvas. Downfall arches his back in pain. Kidsgrove drops an elbow across his chin. He lifts Downfall up, but Downfall breaks loose and begins peppering Kidsgrove with rights. Kidsgrove blocks one and goes for a right of his own. The two begin to exchange blows left and right, and Downfall manages to gain the upper hand, backing Kidsgrove up. Downfall grips his hand and whips him into the ropes. Kidsgrove bounces back and Downfall trips him with a drop toe hold. Downfall flows over and locks in a headlock yet again. After a moment, Kidsgrove fights his way up to his feet. Kidsgrove lifts himself and Downfall up from the canvas and shoves Downfall into the ropes. Downfall bounces back with a shoulder block, sending Kidsgrove down to the mat. Downfall eggs Kidsgrove to get up as he backs up to the ropes again, but as he comes off the ropes Kidsgrove jumps up and catches him off guard with a dropkick. Kidsgrove peels Downfall up and belly to belly flip suplexes him, but Downfall lands on his feet Downfall grips Kidsgrove's arm and goes to whip him to the ropes, but Kidsgrove reverses, sending him to the ropes. Kidsgrove goes for a hip toss, but Downfall blocks it with his leg, and goes to hip toss the smaller man. Kidsgrove blocks as well, and arm drags Downfall down to the mat. Kidsgrove lifts Downfall back to his feet, and arm drags him back down.

Chris Avery: Lightning quick exchanges of offense so far, defying any expectations of age.

Billy: What age? Kidsgrove's IMDB page says he's 25!!

Chris Avery: Uh huh, and who edits that?

Kidsgrove tries to work in an armbar, and wrenches the arm, manipulating the joint. Downfall groans in pain, but he is able to break free with a few punches over his shoulder. Downfall rests, taking a breather, then he goes to lift Kidsgrove up... but Kidsgrove surprises him with a jawbreaker that makes Downfall stumble back a few steps. Downfall checks his jaw to stop it from weirdly clicking, and turns back to Kidsgrove. Both men get up and Downfall hits another dropkick, backing Kidsgrove into the corner. Downfall stays on the offensive and he lands a series of right hands in the corner. Downfall grabs a hold of Kidsgrove and he takes him out of the corner with a belly to belly suplex. Downfall climbs up to the second ropes and he waits for Kidsgrove to get up. When Kidsgrove does, Downfall flies and nails him with a double axe handle from the second ropes. Downfall covers.

Chris Avery: Though they have similar wrestling styles, Downfall does have quite a wealth of experience over Kidsgrove, he's been at this for decades.

Kidsgrove lifts Downfall up, and shoves him backwards into the ropes. Kidsgrove comes charging forward but he is stopped by Downfall flaring an elbow out, making him stumble forward. Downfall then sits on the middle ropes with his legs out in the aisle, and as Kidsgrove turns back towards him Downfall swings backwards, bringing his feet up to connect with Kidsgrove's temple. As Kidsgrove stumbles backwards, holding his temple, Downfall runs in and gives Kidsgrove a kick to the midsection. Downfall chops Kidsgrove across the chest again and again, before kicking him in the midsection and mixing it up with more chops until Kidsgrove himself has been backed up into a corner. Once in the corner, Downfall kicks Kidsgrove in the midsection to stoop him over before plowing away on his head with an aggressive flurry of punches. Kidsgrove begins covering his head and immediately Downfall begins landing punches to his body, mixing it with kicks until the ref tells them to get out of the corner. Downfall immediately backs away, sticking his hand out in a mocking manner, beckoning Kidsgrove to come get some more.

Chris Avery: Kidsgrove looked like he was going to start out tonight by out-thinking Downfall, but Downfall is standing there just begging for more.

Billy: Listen, Kidsgrove has been stunt-trained and instructed in more types of martial arts through what his stunt-man has let on than Downfall has ever heard of in his life. Okay? Krav maga? Juijitsu? Wing chun kung fu? Kidsgrove has heard his stunt team practicing all of those at least once, he's surely picked up... something.

Kidsgrove stands in the corner mouthing at Downfall, slowly getting into Downfall's head as well, as Downfall begins to get impatient at Kidsgrove's not wanting to meet him in the middle of the ring. Downfall then begins to square away with Kidsgrove and as he begins to move in for the corner, Kidsgrove walks out, and they both begin circling the ring. Downfall and Kidsgrove thwart off each other's grapple attempts until Downfall grabs Kidsgrove's hand and twists it around into a wristlock. He spins the wristlock into a harsh armwringer takedown that plants Kidsgrove into the mat, face first, holding his shoulder. Downfall lifts Kidsgrove back up, applying another wristlock and twisting it, then lifting up, as if attempting to dislocate Kidsgrove's shoulder. Kidsgrove then quickly turns into the wristlock and with his free hand grabs Downfall underneath his arm before throwing him off with a hiptoss. Downfall rolls up to one knee in the corner and looks back at Kidsgrove, who primly returns Downfall's earlier, mocking gesture to tell him to come on. Downfall angrily gets up, charging at Kidsgrove, and is stopped in his tracks by a boot to the midsection, and then dropped by a snap suplex executed quicker than a flash. Kidsgrove lifts Downfall back up and hooks both of his arms, and Kidsgrove dumps him with a quick belly to belly suplex. He goes for a cover.

The ref: One... Kickout.

Chris Avery: Kidsgrove surprising everyone with a nice flurry of offensive skills, and the first cover!

Billy: See, you can lead a horse to water, and also teach a movie star to do a hip toss!

Chris Avery: You're mixing metaphors again.

Billy: ...Bullpies!

Downfall waits until Kidsgrove lifts him up and he rakes his eyes. Downfall then grips Kidsgrove by the back of his head and dumps him out of the ring. Downfall takes a second to mimick Kidsgrove's "double finger gun" pose he does as he comes out to the ring, as he walks out, lifts Kidsgrove up and bounces his head off the apron. Downfall walks Kidsgrove down the aisle by the back of the head, and goes to bounce his head off the steel steps. Kidsgrove straightens his arms and blocks, then he elbows Downfall in the gut and flings him across the steel steps. Downfall pulls himself back up, and Kidsgrove gives him a few right hands. He knees Downfall in the midsection and gives him a Russian legsweep into the guardrail. The ref tells both men to get in the ring. Kidsgrove lifts Downfall up and hooks him under his arm. He goes to give Downfall a DDT on the concrete. However, Downfall gives the movie star a backdrop. Kidsgrove hits the concrete floor and rolls around, holding his back. At the urging of the ref, Downfall rolls into the ring and back out to break the count.

Billy: Quick, someone pan over to Zooey to get her reaction!

The camera does pan over to Zooey, who is drinking a soda, and her mouth is puffed out in a surprised expression, before it cuts back to the action in the ring.

Billy: Classic Zooey, everything she does is adorable!

Downfall lifts Kidsgrove up and gives him a European uppercut. Kidsgrove stumbles to his feet, and the Purveyor of Anarchy shoves him back into the guardrail, and gives him a few knife edge chops to the chest. Kidsgrove reverses, throwing Downfall across the guardrail back first and chopping him across the chest as a few people sitting by them cheer him on and say wooo! Kidsgrove grabs Downfall's arm and irish whips him into the steel steps. Downfall nails the steps shoulder first. Kidsgrove, taking his time and stalking Downfall as he gets up, holding his shoulder, lifts Downfall, and drops him face first across the apron. Downfall drops back into the aisle, holding his face. Kidsgrove grips the hair of his adversary, and then walks him over, bounces his head off the apron, and rolls him back into the ring, following in after him. Kidsgrove measures Downfall, waiting for him to get up, and then as Downfall does Kidsgrove goes for a DDT, but Downfall spins out of it, pulling his head loose, and he wraps Kidsgrove's arm up in a hammerlock, twisting it in and jumping a few times to cinch in the pressure, before spinning Kidsgrove around and unloading with a vicious jawbreaker lariat. He goes for a cover.

Chris Avery: Babylon Burning! He may have it here!

The ref: One...











Tw... Kickout.

Billy: These two have met under so many different circumstances, they're scrapping like they hate each other!

After a small breather, Downfall and Kidsgrove rise at the same moment, and Kidsgrove boots Downfall in the gut and drops down with a wicked looking DDT that leaves Downfall nearly vertically driven into the mat. Downfall flops over. Kidsgrove takes a moment to begin stomping Downfall, and stomps every exposed part of Downfall’s body as he circles him. Kidsgrove arrogantly holds his hands up, and his fans in the crowd love him for it. Kidsgrove locks in a Fujiwara armbar of such violent torque that he's bending Downfall's back a little. He shouts for Downfall to give up. The official asks over and over again if Downfall will give up, but he refuses. Kidsgrove stretches Downfall further until his arm looks like it’s beginning to curve. Downfall is contorting and gripping at the mat with his free hand, rather than tap out. Kidsgrove finally settles for shoving Downfall to the mat. Zooey applauds Kidsgrove, and Kidsgrove blows Zooey a kiss. Kidsgrove jogs around the ring, dancing and waiting for Downfall to get up. Kidsgrove turns around into a roundhouse kick. Downfall whips Kidsgrove into the corner and follows it up with a running enziguri in the corner. Downfall picks Kidsgrove back up, and shoves him back into the corner. He begins booting Kidsgrove down a few times, and then he climbs up to the second turnbuckle and begins laying into Kidsgrove's head with a ten-punch combo. As the crowd counts along, 1...2...3...4...5...6... Suddenly, Kidsgrove pushes Downfall off. Downfall quickly gets to his feet and comes running in for clothesline, but Kidsgrove ducks it and boots him in the gut. He sets Downfall up on the top rope. He gives Downfall a few right hands, then climbs up, motioning to the crowd as he gets set to give Downfall a frankensteiner, but Downfall headbutts him in the groin and pushes Kidsgrove back to the mat. Downfall flies off with a crossbody, taking Kidsgrove down. Downfall rolls into a cover, but Kidsgrove rolls through it into a cover of his own. The referee counts...

Chris Avery: And again, Downfall is caught off guard by a sudden burst of unexpected prowess from Kidsgrove!

Billy: It is clearly extremely unwise to take Kidsgrove lightly. He will fight you.

The ref: One...









Two... Kickout.

A frustrated Downfall, annoyed that he nearly got caught there, lifts Kidsgrove up and annihilates him with a shoulder backbreaker. He begins stomping and booting the small of Kidsgrove's back and he applies a seated camel clutch with a knee in his back. As Downfall pulls back aggressively, he digs his fingers into Kidsgrove's face as well, stretching it painfully. The ref admonishes Downfall, telling him to stop on risk of disqualification. Downfall ignores him, but goes back to fully putting all of his efforts into the submission.

Billy: Kidsgrove is in so much pain and agony here... Quick! Pan over to Zooey, see how she's doing!

The camera does a quick pan over to Zooey, who is looking on with a horrified expression on her face, before she notices the camera looking at her, and her eyebrows crease in confusion and she can be seen mouthing "Wait, what are you doing?" before the camera pans back to watch Downfall, still holding the excruciating submission on.

Billy: Hahaha, classic Zooey!

Finally, seeing he isn't going to get Kidsgrove to give up to this, Downfall breaks it off and goes back to stomping on every limb of Kidsgrove. Downfall grips Kidsgrove, lifting him up and punishing him with a cobra clutch backbreaker, before holding on to the cobra clutch and sinking down to the mat. The ref asks Kidsgrove if he gives up, but Kidsgrove stubbornly refuses. He stretches for the ropes, but they're out of reach. Kidsgrove begins pulling himself up with the smaller Downfall on his back, and he is able to get to one knee, then slowly to his feet. His face is turning bright red as he resists being put out by the submission hold. Kidsgrove suddenly runs backwards, squishing Downfall into the turnbuckles. Kidsgrove gets a running start and turns, ramming speed into the opposite side and sandwiching Downfall. Downfall loosens the hold enough for Kidsgrove to extract himself from the hold, wheezing. Kidsgrove turns around, face beet red, but he snarls at Downfall. Kidsgrove lifts Downfall up and gives him a Northern lights suplex. A relentless Kidsgrove then grips Downfall's legs and applies a figure four. Downfall screams in pain, and flails his arms for the ropes, as the actor settles back on the hold.

Chris Avery: Even Downfall didn't see this coming!!

Downfall shouts in pain and reaches for the bottom rope. Kidsgrove won't let him crawl anywhere. Using all of his strength Downfall begins to inch towards the ropes, but as soon as he gets within a fingertip distance, Kidsgrove wiggles back into the middle of the ring and sits back on the hold. Downfall's eyes shoot wide open as his mouth stretches in agony. He bites down on his hand to keep from shouting. But still he refuses to give up when the ref asks. Finally, Downfall begins to crawl towards the ropes again, and stretching as far as he can, he grips the bottom rope. The ref makes Kidsgrove release the hold. Downfall wraps around the bottom rope with all his might to insure safety, as the ref comes between the two men until Downfall gets out of the ropes. Kidsgrove backs up, holding his hands up in supplication as he says, "Okay, okay" to the ref, who is telling him to stand back, and Downfall gets back in the ring. Kidsgrove comes forward, but Downfall boots him in the gut when he isn't prepared. He goes to grapple with Kidsgrove, but Kidsgrove knees him in the gut, grips him by the hair and back of his pants, and throws him forward into the corner, so that he goes flying in between the middle and top rope and cracks against the steel ringpost, shoulder first.

Chris Avery: Kidsgrove CRACKS Downfall with the Stunt Double!

Downfall shouts in pain, holding the arm, and he pulls himself gingerly from the ropes, just in time for Kidsgrove grip him from behind and hit him with a trio of German suplexes, letting go on the last one to send Downfall tumbling around the ring. Downfall rolls around, holding his neck and shoulder, which he landed on, and he pulls himself up with Kidsgrove looming behind him. Kidsgrove grabs his arm to turn him around, lift him up on his shoulders, and drop him with an air raid crash. He goes for a cover.

Chris Avery: Kidsgrove stated that he was never satisfied in his team with Dandy... you know his eyes have always been on that big gold, and a win in the Wrestler of the Year tournament would be one more step towards that!

The ref counts the pin...

The referee: One...









Two... Kickout.

Kidsgrove lifts Downfall up and starts clubbing him over the back. He whips Downfall to the corner, and comes in looking for a corner splash, but at the last instant Downfall pulls himself up on the top ropes and pulls his legs up in a position so that the incoming Kidsgrove hits nothing but turnbuckle. Kidsgrove stumbles away, holding his sternum. Then, Downfall climbs up so that he's standing facing Kidsgrove as Kidsgrove is turned away from him, and Downfall flies off the turnbuckle and takes Kidsgrove down with a bulldog off the top rope. Downfall rests on the mat from this big move for a second. He picks himself up off his feet and begins furiously booting Kidsgrove's limbs, until he finally has enough, lifts Kidsgrove up, and annihilates him with a snap dragon suplex, dropping Kidsgrove right on the back of his neck, then, he goes for a cover.

Chris Avery: Eden's Demise! That was a deadly combination.

The referee: One...











Two... Downfall pulls off of the cover.

Billy: What is this idiot doing, if he wanted to end this, he could have had him there!

Shaking his finger as if to say not just yet, Downfall grabs Kidsgrove's legs and attempts to turn him over into a Texas cloverleaf. Shaking his finger as if to say not just yet, Downfall grabs Kidsgrove's legs and attempts to turn him over into a Texas cloverleaf. Kidsgrove resists being turned over, pounding on Downfall's head with his free arm. Downfall gives Kidsgrove a few stomps to the chest while he's down and continues trying to turn him over, finally succeeding in turning him onto his stomach and stepping over, locking in a Walls of Jericho like Boston crab. Kidsgrove shouts and yells as Downfall settles into the hold, and Downfall screams at him to give up. The ref asks Kidsgrove if he gives up. Kidsgrove steadfastly refuses. He tries to crawl for the ropes. Downfall shakes his head and smirks, and walks him out into the middle of the ring. Kidsgrove refuses to give up, and after a few more moments in the hold Downfall breaks it off. He begins stomping on the lower back of Kidsgrove. He lifts Kidsgrove up and pulls him over to the corner, scraping his boot across the face of Kidsgrove a few times then backing up a few paces, running in and giving him a harsh facewash style kick to the temple. Downfall pulls his boot out and looks down at Kidsgrove for a second, then lifts his limp body up and pulls out onto the apron so that he is hanging by his boots on the middle rope, then give Kidsgrove a rope hung spike DDT onto the apron. Kidsgrove is laid out on the apron, staring straight up as if his brains were scrambled. Downfall pulls Kidsgrove back into the ring.

The referee: One...











Two...











Thr... Kickout.

Downfall angrily shouts that that was three. The ref corrects him, saying Kidsgrove kicked out. Downfall begins to threaten the ref, telling him to do his damn job right. Downfall walks over to Kidsgrove, slapping the back of his head repeatedly. Kidsgrove is starting to stir, shaking the cobwebs from his vision. Downfall lifts Kidsgrove up, attempting to hook him for an STO backbreaker, but Kidsgrove elbows Downfall repeatedly and with machinelike intensity until Downfall loosens the hold, and then Kidsgrove counters with a reverse STO of his own, quickly floating over the fallen Downfall into a front facelock. Downfall's eyes widen as if he's caught in a bear trap, and he tries to push Kidsgrove off, but Kidsgrove holds fast to Downfall's throat, choking him out. He frees one hand to relentlessly club Downfall over the back, and then Downfall begins to fall limp in his arms. As Downfall sinks down to the mat, Kidsgrove begins giving him a harsh series of knee strikes to the neck, shoulder, and head as Downfall lies prone on the mat. Kidsgrove lifts Downfall back up and whips him into the corner, coming in for a Helluva kick. Downfall is barely able to keep his footing, and stumbles out of the corner, dropping to his knees, and then Kidsgrove dumps him overhead with a Northern light suplex.

Billy: This guy has a more extensive moveset than he does a full filmography!

Chris Avery: I think Downfall may have underestimated how much Kidsgrove wants - needs this win tonight, to get back on track.

The referee: One...











Two...











Thre... Kickout.

Kidsgrove begins booting the worked arm of Downfall, then he lifts Downfall up, then, he takes a second to boot Downfall, before lifting him up and walking him over to a corner. He bounces Downfall's head off the top turnbuckle. Downfall falls against the ropes, barely able to keep his footing, but Kidsgrove isn't done, he lifts him back up and rams him into the turnbuckle again and again. Finally, he starts to lift Downfall up for a superplex, but Downfall fights back. Downfall digs his thumbs into Kidsgrove's eyes and violently rakes his face. Kidsgrove screams in pain as he checks his face, blinded, and he walks away. Downfall then clubs him over the back from behind and begins bouncing his head off the turnbuckles in a reversal, until Kidsgrove is limp enough to lift up to the top rope. Downfall climbs the turnbuckle as well, and pulls them both up so that they're standing on the top turnbuckle, and he hooks Kidsgrove for a front suplex. Suddenly, Kidsgrove takes them both off the turnbuckle with a Frankensteiner! Both men crash to the mat, and look to be out of it.

Chris Avery: OH MY GOD, KIDSGROVE JUST TOOK THEM BOTH OFF THE TOP ROPE WITH THAT INSANE MOVE!

The crowd is erupting into a huge chant of "That was awesome!" Both men are still down on the mat.

Billy: QUICK, PAN OVER TO ZOOEY, SEE IF SHE'S OKAY!!

Zooey is at attention, banging on the mat and screaming for Sam to get up, but then she stops with a suspicious look, then turns to the cameraman and starts shrieking at him and asking "WHY DO YOU KEEP ZOOMING IN ON ME?? PERVERT!" Before slapping at him.

Billy: CLASSIC ZOOEY!

Back in the ring, the referee checks on both of them and then begins a ten-count for them to answer.

One...



Two...



Three...



Four...



Five...



Six...



Seven...



Eight...

Both men slowly work their way up to a vertical base. Kidsgrove throws a punch that makes Downfall fall back a little. Downfall throws a punch of his own that snaps Kidsgrove's head to the side. Both men start going back and forth, trading big punches, and then Kidsgrove begins getting fired up, hitting him with heavy punches and backing Downfall up to the ropes, gripping his arm, attempting an irish whip, but Downfall reverses it into a shortarm, and drags Kidsgrove in to a devastating spinning backfist. Downfall doesn't waste a moment in going for a cover.

Chris Avery: That may have given Kidsgrove a concussion.

The referee and the crowd: One...











Two...











Thre... Kickout.

Billy: Kidsgrove kicked out!! The Hollywood Elite is taking over the world, baby!

Downfall runs his hands through his hair in agitation, shaken by his inability to put Kidsgrove down. He goes to lift Kidsgrove up, but is cut off by a headbutt. Kidsgrove lifts Downfall up again, hooking him for a brainbuster, but Downfall this time pulls his head loose and is able to spin Kidsgrove around, gripping Kidsgrove in a facelock and countering into a facebreaker DDT done onto his knee. Downfall lifts Kidsgrove and puts the arm behind his back, setting up in preparation for a kimura lock which could snap the arm... Kidsgrove reverses, elbowing Downfall repeatedly in the side of the head again and again and again, and then he hooks Downfall from the side and floats over into a beautiful Trifecta of snap suplexes. Kidsgrove flings himself off for a frog splash but just before he hits in midair, Downfall rolls out of the way. Kidsgrove hits the mat, holding his chest, and the crowd gives an "awww" at the crash and burn. Kidsgrove gets up, holding his chest, and he immediately gets a mouthful of superkick from Downfall that connects with a whack that can be heard throughout the arena. Kidsgrove is not floored, surprisingly, but is so dazed and confused by it that he totters, barely able to stand, and he falls back two feet into the ropes, which bounces him off and he stumbles forward again into a second, even more emphatic superkick, this one nearly taking his head off. He falls perpendicular to the mat, and doesn't rise this time.

Chris Avery: DOWNFALL JUST DRILLED KIDSGROVE! TWO OF THE MOST THUNDEROUS BEAST KICKS I'VE EVER SEEN!

Downfall, having expended so much energy with the second superkick that he's lethargic, has to crawl several feet. Kidsgrove is staring straight up at the lights. Downfall grits his teeth, grimacing in pain and holding his arm against his chest. He scoots backwards, inch by inch, until he's close enough to Kidsgrove to push him over with the point of his shoulder, and he lays across Kidsgrove for a pin.

The referee and the crowd: One...

Two...

Three - KICKOUT!

The crowd explodes, and Downfall sits up, running his hand through his hair and sinking down in utter exhaustion, and the referee waves that the match will continue.

Downfall picks up Kidsgrove who goes for a move but is just so god damn exhausted he can't.. and Downfall plants a third Beast Kick on him!

Kidsgrove collapses and Downfall pins!

---

Monday Night Clash returns from a Pepsi commercial, the scene is backstage and shows Carter Shaw and Katherine Hastings having a conversation. Shaw is dressed ready for his match later tonight against Johnny Bacchus, whilst Hastings is wearing some FightSmart workout attire.

Billy: We have an absolute cracker of a match tonight folks between two former Champions: former World Champion Carter Shaw and former Hardcore Champion Johnny Bacchus.

Chris Avery: You could argue that they are the two standout stars of 2021… and they are meeting in the first round! But one of them will be eliminated tonight!

Billy: High stakes Avery! And there is one of the competitors for that dream match, Carter Shaw, as he talks with the delightful Katherine Hastings.

Chris Avery: Hmm… I wonder what they are talking about?

Billy: Plus we have the long-awaited rematch between Lissie Hope and Regan Voorhees, and the highly anticipated return of Sam Kidsgrove as he battles the man who pinned Ash Blaske last week to end Philidor’s reign of terror... Downfall!

Hastings and Shaw appear to wrap up their conversation, exchanging pleasantries and then The English Rose places her right hand on Shaw's shoulder as she smiles at him; he responds with a smirk whilst maintaining strong eye contact. She then leaves Shaw as he begins taping up his wrists.

She continues to walk away and turns the corner. The camera follows Hastings as she walks down the corridor with a bounce in her step. Soon she passes Diego Tesoro, leaning against the wall with a toothpick in his mouth. He makes a derogatory sound as she walks away from him before muttering something in Spanish under his breath. Hastings stops, turning to look over her right shoulder.

Katherine Hastings: What was that?

Tesoro dismissively laughs at Hastings. Her happy demeanour quickly changes to an irritated scowl as she turns fully and walks back towards Tesoro. He is irritated by her defiance.

Diego Tesoro: PUTA DE BATALLA!

Hastings chuckles to herself.

Katherine Hastings: WOW! Battle Whore! You know I took GCSE Spanish at school right?

The second-generation Mexican wrestler removes the toothpick from his mouth and finally stands tall, squaring up to Hastings. She shows no sign of intimidation.

Diego Tesoro: I see through you chica, just another broad who don’t deserve her spot, I know your game…

He looks down at her body and smirks.

Katherine Hastings: Oh, is that so… let’s not forget, I beat you in my Clash debut! I’m fairly certain my game was kicking your arse!

Crowd: BATTLE KAT! BATTLE KAT! BATTLE KAT! BATTLE KAT! BATTLE KAT! BATTLE KAT! BATTLE KAT! BATTLE KAT! BATTLE KAT! BATTLE KAT! BATTLE KAT! BATTLE KAT!

Her words stung, he then flicks the toothpick at her, it bounces off her chest. She looks to pull back ready for a punch when Torture walks into the shot, sipping on a can of Pepsi. The crowd cheers.

He takes a big gulp and lets out a sigh.

Torture: Damn I love this stuff, it’s such a thirst quencher.

He holds up the can towards the camera, got to get that product placement in. Hastings and Tesoro continue to scowl at each other.

Torture: So it looks like we have a situation here. I’d rather not have you two fighting outside my office. Tonight is a stacked show, but hey - what’s another match right?

The crowd cheers.

Torture: So tonight, it’s gonna be Diego Tesoro against Katherine Hastings!

Billy: Big news folks! Hastings vs Tesoro 2!!

The camera fades to black as Hastings and Tesoro continue scowling at each other.

---

The sounds of the numerous fans in the arena before the commentators join in on the vocal action.

Chris Avery: Monday Night Clash is off to a hot start already.

Billy: It sure is, Chris, and there's still a ton of highly anticipated matches ahead of us. This wild ride's just getting started!

Chris Avery: That's right. We've got-

He's interrupted by a chime that echoes throughout the arena.

~DING DONG, DONG DING~

Chris Avery: What was that?

Billy: Someone's cellphone maybe?

Chris Avery: .....

Billy: Well you don't know either.

A lot of fans are stumped too as they quiet down, curiously waiting for something to happen. However, a few of them get excited as they recognize that tone and the ominous meaning behind it. It was the same four notes that preceded the "Body Discovery Announcement" throughout the Danganronpa series, and after putting the pieces together, that tone being played during Clash could only mean one thing...

The ActionTron's screen floods with static for a second. Then, a familiar face appears. It's CJ Phoenix, and he's sitting in front of a desk in a room with several monitors in it. His head is resting on a bridge made by his hands on an arch made by his forearms.

Phoenix: My fellow Despairicans.....

The fans meet his words with cheers.

Phoenix: It's been 378 days since I first stepped back into an Action Wrestling ring. I've fought battles against foes all over the proverbial ladder of this company. I've faced underdogs, favorites, the joyful, and the dreadful. I've wrestled a lot. I've won a lot. Most importantly, I've learned a lot.

He takes a quiet, deep breath.

Phoenix: During most of that time, I was rarely seen outside of whatever match I was taking part in. I would just show up, bring despair, and leave. That's not to say I haven't talked to anyone. I've addressed interviewers, allies, and opponents. However, not once since my return have I gone out there and addressed any of you. It's time for that to change.

The screen cuts off. Immediately after, "Break My Baby" begins to play throughout State Farm Arena. Roars of excitement emanate from the crowd as CJ Phoenix walks out in his new FightSmartSport jersey.

Billy: There he is! CJ Phoenix, the new United States Champion!

Chris Avery: CJ said that he would address a few things to the crowd tonight, and it looks like he's gonna make good on that now.

With the US Title over his shoulder and a microphone in his hand, the Luminary of Despair makes his way to the ring. Once inside, he looks around at the fans as the music fades. To his surprise, they fans have come prepared for his arrival as they let out a chant of their own.

"LU-MI-NA-RY" "OF DES-PAIR!"
"LU-MI-NA-RY" "OF DES-PAIR!"
"LU-MI-NA-RY" "OF DES-PAIR!"
"LU-MI-NA-RY" "OF DES-PAIR!"
"LU-MI-NA-RY" "OF DES-PAIR!"

CJ shakes his head as he shows a smile on his face.

Phoenix: You all feel the winds of change as well I see. That's good. Last week was special. It was more than just "SpookyClash". It was the dawn of a new beginning. One that saw John Black get his hands on the TV Title.

The fans cheer for John Black as they should because he's been working his ass off and it's great to see him achieve things.

Phoenix: It was the same night that we saw Philidor get dismantled in the ring.

Chris Avery: John Thomas is probably still rewatching that match.

Phoenix: And of course...I won this thing. I'm free December 5th if anyone has a problem with me having this. You should know who you are. Figuring it out isn't too complex...

He holds up the US Title to the delight of the audience.

Phoenix: ...but I didn't win this for me. This is for all of us. I created Despairica for everyone. It's far more than just a word to print on merchandise. It's about unity and perseverance. That's why I've chosen to donate my merch sales and checks towards mental health and suicide prevention. Look around you. All of us here have persevered. Despite how bleak it's looked in Action Wrestling over the last few months, you all kept showing up because you believed that it was only a matter of time before things got better. You believed that all of the despair that you've gone through would eventually be rewarded....and it was.

CJ drops the Title back over his shoulder. His tone shifts to a more sorrowful one as he looks down at the ring.

Phoenix: Unfortunately, not everyone has that kind of patience. Far too many people are unable to find that light in the darkness, leading to someone in the US putting an end to their life every eleven minutes. Globally, we lose someone every 40 seconds. Not just because of depression, but because of other things like financial struggles and traumatic events. It's hard to reach out and connect with someone from either side. Some people don't speak up because they feel like they're a burden if they do, or they end up being misunderstood. Others are afraid to try and help because they don't understand what the other person is going through, and they don't want to risk making things worse. To those who want to help, but don't know how, be there. You don't have to say a thing. Your presence could serve as proof that the person or people you're trying to support isn't fighting alone, and that could be the moment that their life starts to turn around for the better. As for those who don't know where to go when they find themselves in those dark places.....whether it's any of you out here, at home, or even backstage, I'm here for you.

He lifts his eyes and visually scans the audience around him once more.

Phoenix: I know what it's like to stare into the face of hopelessness, wondering if it'll ever be possible for things to improve. Me holding this title right now is living proof that it does. So give me your despair, and I'll be your beacon of hope. I know that every time I look out into the crowd, there's a possibility that I'm looking at a future Champion. History has shown us how much despair can ruin things when used carelessly. Now, I'm gonna show you all just how much despair can change Action Wrestling, and the world, for the better.

CJ turns towards one of the cameras and stares down the lens.

Phoenix: Welcome to Despairica, everyone. Built by despair. Powered by perseverance. Creating the hope of the future.

The Luminary of Despair exits the ring as his theme starts to play again.

Chris Avery: Deep words spoken by the United States Champion. He's clearly got big plans for Action Wrestling and the fans.

Billy: Yeah, but that's a big gauntlet he threw down for himself. He's gonna have to live up to it, and only time will tell if he does, but I think he will.

Chris Avery: So do I. By the way, CJ Phoenix mentioned being free December 5th. That's the date of Turmoil this year, so he could be hinting at defending his title then.

Billy: You might be right about that. Speaking of Turmoil, we've got plenty of Turmoil Tournament matches coming up.

Chris Avery: That's right. Monday Night Clash rolls on after this.

---

We're backstage where we see a Die Hard cardboard cut-out. The scene pans back and it's Roman Gunn.

The crowd boos.

Roman looks the cardboard cut out of Sam Kidsgrove from his Die Hart movie that came out last month. Roman flicks the cardboard and just shakes his head in disgust.

He picks it up and rips it in half.

The crowd boos.

Roman looks over into the camera and raises an eyebrow.

Roman Gunn: Acknowledge me

Roman slicks back his perfect hair and smirks.

The scene fades out.

---

We come back to Monday Night Clash where Jayson Price is sitting in a recliner drinking an ice cold pepsi. The scene zooms out and we see Mason Jones sitting on a couch in the same room holding an ice pack to his shoulder and neck.

Mason Jones: Sigh. I don't know, maybe I'm not cut out for this.

Jayson Price ignores him.

Mason Jones: Yeah, whatever.

Jayson Price sits up and crushes his Pepsi can and throws it in the trash can.

Mason Jones: Did you fill out the Sober sheet?

Jayson Price: Yeah, I filled that lame piece of paper out. We're clockin' quite a few hours today so I'm going to go pretty soon.

Mason Jones: Alright.

Jayson Price: Good job with your win out there!

Mason Jones: My win? I lost!

Jayson Price: Win, loss, whatever, man, you did good.. I'm sure.

Mason Jones: You didn't even see it? You literally gave me the Price Check to use and I used it and you didn't even watch my match?

Jayson Price: Hey! I'm watching the Monday Night Football Game, relax!

Mason just shakes it off and grabs his backpack and exits the locker room.

Jayson Price: Hahah oh come on, don't get all huffy puffy!

Price sits back down in his recliner and we fade out.

---

Crimson Valley's Open the Gates hits and the speakers immediately blow out when the song hits hard and heavy. Shane Striker and Bam Beefer walk through the curtain and out onto the stage to a chorus of hellraising boos. The two raise their arms as Striker smiles like the cocky bastard he is. Beefer begins yelling out at the crowd as Adilene Floyd introduces them.

Adilene Floyd: Coming to the ring with a combined weight of over 550 pounds, they are Shane Striker and Bam Beefer and they are TEAM EXTREME!!

Striker jumps on the apron and gets through the ropes into the ring as Beefer hoists himself up on the turnbuckles over the top rope! Striker stands up on the middle turnbuckle and lifts up both arms and continues to point to himself on the chest as Beefer is leaning against the ropes yelling out at the crowd. The two come together in the corner and double fist pump as the music fades and they prepare for war.

Billy: Team Extreme looking to get back on track in the tag team division!

HERE WE ARE, BORN TO BE KINGS, WE’RE THE PRINCES OF THE UNIVERSE!

Queen’s “Princes of the Universe” belts out over the PA system and heralds the arrival of Benedict and Crowley, both dressed to the nines in button-downs and slacks. They take a moment to shake hands with each other and then play to the crowd while they make their way down the ramp to ringside. Before they get into the ring they remove their shirts and accessories, leaving both in their slacks. Crowley puts in his mouth guard and Benedict shares a few words with a fan at ringside. They hop up onto the apron and scale the outsides of the turnbuckles to get the crowd going before they step between the ropes.

Chris Avery: They took the Tag Team Champions to the limit at Execution and if you ask me, they don't even deserve to be in this match up!

Billy: Oh yeah?

Chris Avery: Absolutely! They should be #1 contenders already!

DING DING DING

Striker attacks Robert right off the bat and hits a chop! Another chop! A right hand! He whips Robert to the ropes and hits a beautiful powerslam! He goes for a cover but it's only a one count! Striker grabs the shoulders of Robert and lifts him up and shoves him back into the corner! Beefer tags in and both men tee-off with some right hands and Beefer headbutts!

Beefer and Striker grab Robert and whip him into the ropes and hit a double back body drop! Crowley tries to get into the ring but Striker clotheslines him down and then exits the ring! Beefer hits the ropes and leaps into the air and hits a big body splash!

Beefer pins Robert!

One!

Two!

Robert Benedict kicks out!

Billy: What a kick out! I thought he may have had it though!

Chris Avery: Benedict and Crowley are a bit more stronger than that, Billy!

Beefer picks up Robert and whips him to the ropes and goes for another back body drop but Robert kicks Beefer in the chest putting him back up to a standing position and Robert kicks up into an enziguri!

Beefer falls into the corner and tags in Striker!

Robert leaps up and tags in Hector!

Billy: THE HOT TAG!!

Hector gets into the ring and ducks Strikers clothesline and dropkicks Beefer in the asshole and Beefer flies through the ropes to the outside!

Striker grabs Hector but Hector hits a pele-kick and Striker stumbles back and Robert hits a tornado DDT!

Striker is out!

Beefer rolls in and goes for Hector but Hector ducks and and Robert springboards in with a dropkick sending Beefer back down!

Striker is up and Hector is up too!

Striker turns around and Hector and Robert hit the MANNERS MAKETH MAN!!

Striker is out!!

Beefer tries to get up but Striker is covered!

One!

Two!

Three!

DING DING DING

Billy: Dangerous Gentlemen get their Tag Team shot again at Turmoil!

Chris Avery: One of the biggest events to close out 2021 and Dangerous Gentlemen are #1 contenders! Can they take the Vanguard to the limits again?

Billy: We'll find out at Turmoil!

We fade to a commercial as DG continue to celebrate in the ring as Beefer and Striker get pissed off on the outside.