Thursday Night Meltdown October 9th 2008

[BK London]

A Peek Behind the Kayfabe Curtain – Part 2
Alex Richmond


When I was fired from ACW the bottom fell from my world. I was at the pinnacle of the industry and I had blown it. I wasn’t going to leave an indelible mark on wrestling’s history books; I was going to be little more than a footnote in the annals of time. This was a depressing thought for me and instead of facing up to what had happened and dealing with it I decided to continue on with my life as if nothing had changed. The only difference now would be that my pay-packet would be given to me by small fry independent promoters rather than the biggest wrestling organisation on the planet.

The atmosphere in these indy promotions was very different to the big leagues. Everyone spent their time joking around and acting the fool, there was a severe lack of professionalism and because I showed some, and they were jealous of my success, they never accepted me. This suited me fine, I turned up 15 minutes before I was due to go on, stole the show, and left before the fans did. Even when I’d had a drink I could outwrestle the majority of the morons they threw me in the ring with so that’s what I did. I’d carry a water bottle to the ring with me filled with 80% Strength Absinth and take regular ‘water breaks’ throughout the course of the match. Only once did this go wrong, and it went wrong in a bad way.

I’d been out the night before and when I woke up, at around 5pm, I’d snorted a couple of lines to pep me up and get me buzzing for the night’s work. I was working for a little known promotion I forget the name of, I didn’t care about the promotion I cared about me – I was bigger than them anyway and every single member of that audience turned up to see the only true star, me, in action. Anyway, I was scheduled to face another ex-ACW wrestler, a guy called Tornado, for the promotion’s title. The finish was that Tornado would go for his Corkscrew 450 finish, I’d avoid it and promptly drop him with the Bottom Dollar before walking away with the title. Things didn’t exactly go to plan. When Tornado went to climb the turnbuckle he was selling hurt and took too long so, in my inebriated stupor, I decided to change the finish to give the fans a big pop moment. I climbed up the turnbuckle and brawled with Tornado at the top, telling him I wanted to Piledrive him into the ring from the top. He agreed and I set him up for it but I was swaying so much I managed to slip, driving Tornado’s head into the mat too early. I still pinned him, finished the match, and walked out with the title but Tornado didn’t move the entire time.

I staggered into the back and the boss looked horrified as he sent his medics rushing to check on Tornado. He pulled me to one side (he was too bush league to even have an office) and calmly explained to me that I’d endangered the life and career of one of his top stars, I scoffed at the comment and told him we all knew I was their top star. He continued, however, to read me the riot act before informing me that he wasn’t going to be paying me tonight because he was giving my fee to Tornado to help with medical expenses. I punched him flush in the face, breaking his jaw and loosening a few of his acrid yellow teeth, and left him slumped in a pool of his own misery before walking out of the building, and promotion, for one last time. I took their title with me but disposed of it on my way home via the window of my Shelby GT.

That night I partied with my friends, drinking copious amounts and snorting even more, and awoke the following morning in a puddle of my own vomit, my cell phone relentlessly ringing and the sound boring into my pounding head. I answered and the guy on the other end, I forget his name, informed me that Tornado had been taken to the local hospital for x-rays and they’d discovered that my botch had broken his neck. His career, and walking days, were apparently over. I felt slightly guilty but it passed as I reminded myself that you take your life into your own hands every time you step into that ring. Besides, I didn’t have time to dwell on depressing thoughts, I had to find another promotion to headline and I had another party to go to...

[BK London]

Segment: Not so fast (Credit: XS3/Bryce)

In the back, the next ugly mug we get to see is that of XS3's, as he currently is speaking to his wife Christine on the phone. Donned in his ring attire and a Killswitch Engage shirt, he smiles at the sound of hearing his wife speak to him from the other side.

XS3: Yeah babe, I'm pumped for tonight… I get to go toe-to-toe with Scott Andrews… I know! It's going to be fucking insane. I--

Before he can continue on, he unexpectedly bumps into the last person he wants to see at the moment: Bryce. The crowd is heard in the background, booing, as we can see XS3 looking like he's about ready to go off on Bryce. However, he suddenly changes his demeanor and speaks in a cool tone.

XS3: I'm going to call you back, honey… Love you too. Bye.

XS3 hangs up and puts the phone in his pocket before turning to Bryce.

XS3: Well…?

Bryce: Well, what?!

XS3: You said you wanted to show me the fact that I'm a has-been. So far, you've done nothing but hide behind a mirror and a microphone. Unless you want the world to know you truly are a classless punk, why don't you test yourself against me right now?

For a good few seconds, the two men engage in a heated staredown. Just then, Bryce cracks a grin on his face and chuckles softly before turning to walk off. XS3 has had enough of this and he grabs Bryce by the shoulder, spinning him around to face The Exemplar himself.

XS3: Not this time, kid. You better give me some form of answer as to what exactly your motives are or I'm going to have to beat them out of you.

For the first time since coming to ACW, Bryce is actually taken by surprise. He looks at XS3 with a look that wants to know more about XS3's challenging motives. This time, with no smile on his face, Bryce speaks in a calm manner.

Bryce: You know, if you wanted me to do something so damn badly, all you had to do was ask dear Matthew. See, I'll take you up on your offer...just not right now. How's Monday sound for you?

Bryce winks before turning on his heels and walks away with no motion of XS3 stopping him. XS3 simply looks on at his rival then heads off to prepare for his match with Scott.

Fade.

[BK London]

Match 4: Scott Andrews vs. XS3 (Credit: Scott Andrews)

MATCH START: Both men have a similar respect for one another and start out with a collar elbow tie up, which XS3 turns into a side headlock. Scott pushes him off into the ropes and as XS3 returns, Scott attempts a back body drop, but XS3 kicks him in the shoulder. X then delivers a scoop slam and goes for a quick cover to get a one count. X looks to lock in an arm lock, but Scott spins out of it and kicks XS3 in the head, knocking him back a few steps. Scott gets to his feet and runs the ropes, heads towards X, and unleashes a running calf kick, knocking X into the turnbuckle. Scott runs once again, but XS3 manages to see it coming and he kicks Scott in the guts. Scott doubles over and X gets him up for a Powerbomb, but Scott quickly counters into a Hurricanrana pin for a two count.

MATCH MIDDLE: After kicking out, X rolls to the side and out of the ring to catch a breather. Scott is on his knees but he quickly gets up and in a rare act he runs the ropes only to leap over them on his return and hit a Corkscrew Tope, sending both men to the floor. Both competitors take a while to get up, but make it to their feet at about the same time. Scott goes for a right hand, but XS3 blocks it and hits one of his own. Scott goes for another, but X blocks it again and lifts Scott up and onto the barricade, crushing his stomach. X then quickly whips Scott back into the ring to make a cover. He gets a two count.

MATCH FINISH: X decides it’s time to finish Scott off with moves he knows will put him away. He lifts Scott up and whips him across the ring. X looks for a clothesline, but Scott ducks it and comes back with his own Lariat of Revenge spinning X out of control and crashing to the mat. Scott gets a two count. The Scarlet Assassin is now on the path to victory, he just needs to find a way to put him out. He lifts him up and tries to hit a backbreaker, but X gives him three swift elbows to the head and delivers a back suplex onto Scott’s shoulders. X scurries over for a long two count. X rolls off and uses the ropes to get himself to his feet. Instead of keeping on his opponent he just stands their, waiting. Scott looks to be in a dangerous predicament as XS3 charges in for a Shadow Step (Spear), but Scott being the crafty ringsman he is, delivers a drop toe hold and spins into the Scarlet Fever. It isn’t long before Scott gets his second straight submission victory in a row.

WINNER: Scott Andrews

[BK London]

Break The Walls Down (Credit Jake Cheng)

He can’t talk to me like that. Tell me what to do. I just want to help. I just want to be part of the team. I just want...

As Jake tries to collect himself, he walks past several superstar’s locker. Jay Zero. Scott Andrews, Wayde Russ-wait, Scott Andrews. Jake takes several steps back and stands in front of the door of his new enemy. As he stand there, he hears voices in his head....no, I am not pulling a Hunter.

BK London: You know? You might want to take back your choice of words because you haven't exactly been on a roll lately yourself. You know what? Without he help of me, I can't even remember when's the last time you won a match OR done something actually impactful? Why don't you leave the plans to the main eventers, and you run along "grand slam champion".

Jake faces contorts out of anger, but he walks away from the door out of the shot of the camera.

Fade Out.

But then Jake comes back into the shot and the fade stops. With one swift kick above the door knob, Jake opens to the door and enters the locker room of Scott Andrews.

The door closes behind him, but the noises can still be heard. Glass shatters, wood snaps, things fall over. And you thought those sounds were bad. The sounds of sparks flying in the next thing the audience hears, follows by more glass breaking and a crunch: a TV being destroyed.

Then there is silence. With one final crunch, Jake kicks the door off of its hinges. His suit, dirtied and teared in parts, limps out of the room. Sparks still fly from where the lights were. A flat panel TV is on the ground with a hole in the center. The former locker oom is now a disaster zone. Ground zero.

Fade Out. Really.

[BK London]

Segment: Role Reversal (credit: BK London and Kudo)

We're deep into the show, and while we've already gone through four fantastic matches, the main event still looms ahead. However, before we make our last stop - there's one more piece of business to be attended to.

"Hello Goodbye" sounds throughout the speakers, and the arena quickly shows their lack of support for the World Champion. Stepping through the curtain, BK London makes his first public appearance of the night - and his first public appearance since the events that occured 72 hours ago at the end of Warfare. The champion, who's still a big banged up from his battle last week, continues to gingerly walk down the ramp with a scowl on his face. He looks out at the thousands of fans that fill up the arena, and he looks absolutely disgusted with the reaction he is getting.

The OCW Championship continues to rest on his shoulders, and now he enters the ring before demanding the microphone from Phillip. Settling himself in the center of the ring, he waits for the music to die down and the lights to return to normal so he can address the fans.

BK London: It was only three days ago - THREE DAYS AGO - that I, BK London, was put into one of the most unfair matches in this company's history.

Massive heat.

BK London: Yeah I said it, it was unfair. It was unfair, for Chairman Gingerdude to have me compete in a match - against doctor's orders - after I suffered multiple injuries at the hand of Yoko Satoshi last week on Meltdown. And even though I did manage to survive the match, unlike a certain former world champion, I was in no shape to compete last Monday. I have a mind to sue Chairman Gingerdude for all he's worth...but you know what? I'm not going to do that. I'm not going to do that because OCW is getting ready to enter our final stages of our complete ACW takeover. That's right my friends, in a short little while - everything you see here, from the Alphatron to the ring skirt.

A camera shot from outside of the ring is seen, capturing BK London from an angle while looking at the ACW Thursday Night Meltdown logo on the ringskirt.

BK London: ..From the merchandise to the website - EVERYTHING will be embedded with the OCW logo, because we're taking over..

BK London pauses for a moment, letting that thought sink in. The thought of the final stages of OCW's take over coming to fruition, but he's not done yet - there's still something else he wants to get off his chest.

BK London: But really, that's not what I wanted to come out here to talk about tonight. I wanted to come out here and talk about a certain man, who took advantage of me while I was less than 100% - and that man is none other than "Mr. KO" Kudo Yasuda!

Quite a pop from the fans in attendance, and we cut to several signs such as "Kudo for World Champ!" and "Mr. KO is BACK!", among many other things. BK London once again scowls, this time at the reaction Yasuda has received.

BK London: Oh don't get too excited, I'm about to set things straight - and set things right. So you know what? I'm going to call out "Mr. KO" out to the ring, so I can speak to him to his FACE. So Kudo, get your-

Before he can even finish his sentence, "Poison" comes to life - the ever popular Kudo Yasuda theme - and the magnitude of the pop gets even greater with yet another appearance before the fans tonight. Still attired in his ring gear from his earlier match, he almost looks ready for a fight as he begins to make his way slowly into view

BK London keeps his eye on the former Light Heavyweight Champion as he treads down the ramp, and steps into the ring - and BK London wastes no time getting right into Yasuda's face.

BK London: You must think you're the top dog huh? You must think you're the best there is by knocking me out on Monday huh? Knocking me out when I wasn't even CLOSE to one hundred per-

Kudo puts his hand over the microphone of BK London, bringing an end to his barrage of words, and this gets another huge reaction from the crowd.

Kudo Yasuda: First of all, I think it would be in your best interest if you took a step back out of my face – or if you prefer I can very well give you another concussion right here, right now.

The eyes of BK widen, as he is shocked by the amount of disrespect he is recieving from this punk. Nonetheless, to bring the tension down, he takes a few steps back.

BK London: You cocky little bastard…You know what? Fine. I'll get out of your face. But I want to tell you eye to eye - man to man, that what you did last Monday, what you THINK you accomplished by knocking me out, that was nothing more than a fluke. That's right, A FLUKE!

Kudo Yasuda: Really? A fluke?

BK London: A fluke Mr. Yasuda. You see, on your best day - you could NEVER come close to beating me. You may have your R-3, but guess what? That R-3 doesn't mean a DAMN thing, compared to my W-3. Three - World - Championship - reigns kiddo. And you know what? Since you want to take advantage of people when they're down, I'm going to challenge you to a rematch - a rematch next Monday on Warfare.

Kudo Yasuda: Ironic isn’t it?

BK London: What?

Kudo Yasuda: Ironic how last week you were talking down to me as if you were giving me the greatest opportunity in the world by being a part of your main event scene. And yet here we are, one week later, standing face to face as we were before, but now here you are wanting something from me.

BK London stares Kudo on, not liking what he’s just been told.

Kudo Yasuda: You see here you are, in pretty much the same situation I was in. Down and out and embarrassed, needing the opportunity to arise to earn back your respect. But unlike before BK London, you’re not going to be granted any kind of rematch. No I think I’m going to let you bake in your own ego after that knee to your head. You see, I’m going to kneel down and offer you a match to redeem yourself when I’m good and ready. It would do me no good to face you at any less than 100% wouldn’t you say? And so mark your calendar for October 25th BK London, because at Samhain you and I are going to throw down one more time.

BK London lets out a grin, happy to get his chance to prove that last Warfare’s event was a fluke.

Kudo Yasuda: Oh and since I’m giving you the chance to get your reputation back, I want you to give something as well…So at Samhain BK London and Mr. KO will face off… with your OCW title on the line.

BK London’s eyes widen after hearing Kudo’s demands but his urge to one up Kudo has just risen to a level that cannot be turned away at this point.

Kudo Yasuda: Besides, you don’t want another match with me so soon BK. That’s the after effects of the Yakuza Knee speaking. But at Samhain, you come with that belt in hand, bring your 100% and leave your excuses in the back and we’ll settle things. Personally I’d rather not see your face until that time comes. I’m done for the night.

With that Kudo Yasuda drops his microphone and turns around, taking off from the ring, but BK London isn't exactly done with the No.1 Contender.

Grabbing Kudo by the wrist, he turns him around and decks him with his microphone right to the face. This shot brings Kudo right down to the mat, and the microphone flies in a completely opposite direction. Injured and all, BK London throws off his blazer and begins stomping away at the No.1 Contender - delivering stomp after stomp to the ribs of his adversary. Now backing up, BK London decides to unbutton his sleeves and shirt to feel less constricted and deliver more damage to Kudo.

He throws his shirt outside of the ring, revealing considerably less bandages than he had on Warfare this week, and now delivers a stiff kick to the abdomen Kudo Yasuda. Irish whipping him across the ring, Kudo Yasuda bounces off the ropes and London attempts to clothesline him. Rushing forward, BK London looks to take his opponent's head off - but Kudo manages to roll under the clothesline attempt.

BK nearly loses his balance, but he falls down to his knees, and Kudo quickly springs back up to his feet. Seeing a great opportunity, for a split second he scouts the World Champion - and once BK gets up..

THWACK!

The Yakuza Knee Strike strikes again, knocking BK London out cold in the middle of the ring. The scene is reminiscent from Monday on Warfare, as Kudo stands over the possibly concussed champion and he looks at the belt. But this time, Kudo walks over to the OCW Champion and picks it up and looks down at BK London. He looks down at the man standing in his way of solidifying himself as the undisputed best that this company has to offer, the man standing in his way of the World Championship. Throwing the belt down across BK London's waist, Kudo exits the ring and makes his way up the ramp as his theme continues to sound through the speakers and the crowd is split between feelings of shock and excitement.

Kudo definitely has BK London's number, and it seems that Mr. KO is back in full effect.

Fade Out

[BK London]

Segment Name: A brief phone call (Credit: Freeman)

The camera fades in to the office of ACW's co-chairman, Ginger. He is obviously frustrated as he tries to figure out a solution to some problem which seems to be troubling him. He is looking at some papers, when all of a sudden the phone rings. He picks it up, curious as to who is calling.

Ginger: Hello?

?: Yes, this is the agent of Jason Freeman. I am calling to inform you that my client Jason Freeman shall not be in attendance tonight.

Ginger:What?! Why not?

Agent: He has other matters to attend to, and did not feel that it was important for him to be in the building tonight.

Ginger: Hey, listen---

*Click* And Freeman's agent has hung up. Ginger glares at the phone as he hangs it up, extremely mad at Freeman's new attitude...feeling that he was just not going to show up for the show. He wasn't booked, but regardless, to without a reason just decide not to show up annoyed Ginger very much. Ginger still wasnt forgiving him for completely blowing him off Monday and completely disrespecting him. Regardless, Ginger decides once again that it was just not worth his time right now to worry about, and he decides to think about more important matters right now...as the camera fades out.

[BK London]

Segment: Our Life, Your Entertainment
Credit: The Road Steelers

The night is drawing near and we’ve seen many rivalries and feuds progress here tonight. As we approach the main event, we now see Kevin Anderson running down the hallway with a microphone in his hand and a nervous look on his face. He is headed somewhere we presume and he doesn’t seem like he’s stopping until he reaches his destination. He runs, and runs and runs some more until stopping at a locker room door and placing his hand over the name on the door so that it is not seen just yet. He takes a few deep breaths and removes his hand… revealing it to say “The Road Steelers.” He catches his breath and knocks on the door. After a few brief seconds pass, Jake Steele opens up the door and it is seen that all of him and Train are in the locker room. He motions for Kevin to have a seat. He does, but he looks nervous with both of the men surrounding him in the room, looking like they could snap Kevin like a twig at any minute. Kevin has a nervous smile on his face as Steele steps before him and smiles.

Kevin Anderson: You called me down here, right? I was told to interview you two for some major announcement about RSX3. Is it XS3 challenging BK London for the World Title again? Is it Thunder Train going on a diet? Is it FSX getting his money? Is it you finally beating Ze--

Thunder Train pushes Kevin back up against the locker, as he now looks petrified completely. Steele lays himself up against the locker room and snickers, looking on at Kevin.

Thunder Train: DO YOU WANT TO WIND UP LIKE RATTLESNAKE!?

Steele - Aight Train, we all know Kevin don’t know when to keep his mouth shut, but we can’t go around killin’ innocent interviewers just yet man. Put him down brah.[/color]

Train throws Kevin down as Kevin looks up and is damn near in tears. Steele drops down in a squated position, getting a close up view of Kevin so he can see his eyes tremble. Steele smiles still, as he now begins talking again.

Steele - Now Kevin, I called you down hea’… cause I wanted you to give Stephan Russo a quick little message from us. If he wants to send dat pussy McKaye, and his prison bitch Starkweather at me and Train, den we’ll send ourselves to his latest business project. Tell ‘Mr.’ Russo dat we, bein’ Train and me… we goin’ to invite ourselves to Stephan Russo Memorial Hall.[/color]

Kevin Anderson: S-s-so you’re going to Fallout?

Steele - See Train… dude ain’t so dumb. Maybe we should let him go wit’out a scratch.[/color]

Train: Or maybe we should beat him until his afro comes off!

Steele - I can dig dat.[/color]

Kevin screams out in horror as the scene cuts to a quick fade. It is now known that The Road Steelers are coming to Fallout this Friday. Finally... Fallout gets to see what real Tag Team Champions look like… it really is about time.

[BK London]

Segment: Round Two (Credit: Zero, McKaye)

Returning from a very brief commercial break, we find ourselves backstage with the lovely Charlotte King, standing alongside the now former International Champion, who some may say was "screwed" out of his title reign. Looking a bit more calm right now, Jay Zero gathers some cheers from the crowd as the image appears on the Alphatron at ringside.

Charlotte[/color] :: Charlotte King here once again, and this time, I'm standing side to side with the now, former International Champion and our current Emperor of the Ring, Jay Zero! Now Jay, we all know what happened last week. We've all seen the footage, we saw how Jake Steele used the 2007 Emperor of the Ring contract, compliments of Yoko Satoshi, to take away your International Title. But now, what I want to know is, doesn't this situation now feel a tag bit -- ironic to you? The positions have practically flipped around. Instead of Jake proving himself to Chairman Gingerdude for a title match, all he had to do was snap his fingers, pay a simple fee, and run down to the ring! Meanwhile now, you are the one practically begging the Chairman to even allow you a fair rematch! How can this all possibly even be justified?

Zero

[/color] :: Honey -- first off, Jay Zero wasn't beggin' anyone, for anything! And to be honest here, this really can't be justified! I mean -- I had earned my right to a title shot! Then once I got that far, I had earned the right to walk around this place with that title belt strapped safe and secure around my waist! However -- all people aren't like Jay Zero! All people don't work to earn what they deserve! Instead, you got these younger little punks like Jake Steele, practically runnin' right out of high school and comin' here to act like they own the place! And these kids, they don't understand what's it like! What it's like to pay dues! Or to -- you know, just flat out work towards a goal! All these people like Jake Steele think is that everything can be bought out with money! Now -- I stand here with nothing, and he parades around with TWO titles, nevertheless! [/center]

Charlotte[/color] :: Well, you mention that you have nothing, but in all reality, you have something even bigger! First off, the Chairman earlier tonight if I heard this correctly, has offered you a title match! And even putting that aside, you have the 2008 Emperor of the Ring contract!

Zero

[/color] :: Yeah and Charlotte baby, do ya really think that I'mma waste that hard-earned contract on a little puke like Jake Steele? Hell no! He never deserved an International title match from the beginning, so it's only MORE than fair for me to get a rightful opportunity to take the title away from him. And I guarantee to you Charlotte, this Monday when Jake Steele finally HAS to step into the ring with me -- yeah, that's right! No FSX! No XS3! When Jake Steele has to put his precious title on the line, he's not going to buy me out with any money! There's no escape plan! If Jake Steele really plans on keeping that piece of gold on him, then he's going to have to straight up prove to me that he's worthy! But that still won't matter cause we all already know he can't! So right here and right now, you can quote me on this! I, Jay Zero, will be walking out of this arena Monday night with gold around my waist once again! [/center]

Cheering for the 2008 Emperor, Charlotte nods her head, maybe in slight disagreement, but she knows quite well how much of a temper Jay Zero packs and doesn't dare offend that.

Charlotte[/color] :: Well Jay, then all I got to say to you then is -- well, simply put: Good luck!

Zero

[/color] :: Why thank you Charlotte baby! But luck isn't necessarily something I plan to be counting on! People rely on luck too much nowadays. But Jake Steele if you're listening, please, do take this advice from me if you plan on counting on luck to save you! Before our match, make sure that you have no distractions at all! Make sure that you're completely in the zone! I want Jake Steele to be %100 for this big match! And while you're at it, pray! Pray to your lord, whoever that may be, and you pray for forgiveness, for all of your sins to be washed away because Steele, when you and I go head to head in the ring! I'm taking you to hell and back! I'm dragging you to the very depths of fire and brimstone! Jake Steele, when that match is over and Jay Zero's name is being announced as the winner, you're going to be praying to your lord that he hasn't taken your soul away from you as well! But hey, I'm only one guy! So you know what, maybe to make sure that some of this doesn't happen, why don't you make sure that Thunder Train comes down to the ring with you? Why don't you make sure that the big, loveable Thunder Train is by your side to make things better when they start to go bump in the ni-- [/center]

Suddenly, Jay Zero is halted in mid-speech. His eyes shoot to the side as she swings his head over to the side, catching something in his peripheral vision. As the camera slightly fades out, the crowd begins to boo as we now see OCW's own Henry McKaye on the scene approaching Jay Zero. Within seconds, we can begin to feel the animosity running between both men. It seems as if the hatred has halted due to this whole Jake Steele situation, and all that it took was the meeting of eyes to bring everything back... Glaring at each other, Henry makes the first move.

Henry McKaye: You know, its almost funny to hear you run down Jake Steele, claiming he's a young punk and doesn't deserve what he has. The truth of the matter, Jay, is that you're just as bad as him and you know it. What's the matter, Jay, the fans start cheering for you and you have to pretend to be someone else? What, all of a sudden you NEED the approval of spectators and fence-sitters? Here you are, talking down to how Jake Steele took advantage of a situation... when we all know that if BK London was knocked out in the middle of the ring at this very second... you would do the same thing that he did. Not only that, everyone would treat you like some hero. The world is hypocritical and fickle, Jay... and you know it. Us free-thinkers and individuals get booed for doing something logical, but you slaves and addicts get love and praised. Face it, Jay, you're a junkie for the crowd's approval and now you're saying and doing whatever it takes to keep it. It's funny, really, because Jake Steele is no more of a punk than you are... and if he hadn't took advantage of you... I'm sure you would've taken advantage of BK London.

The crowd at ringside boos just as Zero bites down on his lower lip. In the background, Charlotte tries to squeeze in to maybe place her microphone in between the mix.

Henry McKaye: You may be older and have more experience than Jake Steele, but at heart? You're still a rookie who hasn't earned his lumps and bruises! Me? I'm a 15 year old veteran of this busin--

Zero

[/color] :: Oh shut the hell up! Is that ALL that you say? I swear, every friggin' opportunity you have, that somehow makes it's way into conversation! Well let me tell you McKaye, experience didn't mean shit at Emperor of the Ring when I beat your ass down! And experience still didn't mean shit when you pinned the scraps that Jake Steele left for you after a two-on-one situation! Fifteen years may seem like a lot, but Henry, where's it gotten you so far in ACW? Hm? Nobody cares about Germany and how you highlighted shows in Japan! What they care about is what you amount to here, and so far, I haven't seen you even come close to doing something monumental, let alone worthy of mentioning! [/center]

Henry McKaye: A fool plays his best hands shortly after the cards are dealt, Jay. Now, while what you're saying is true... it still doesn't alter the fact that this Monday you're not going to win the OCW International title! As a matter of fact, I have orders from Mr. Russo to bring the International title back home where it rightfully belongs... and there is nothing you... or Jake Steele can do to keep me from following those orders. It could be you... or it could be Jake Steele... it doesn't matter, I'm still coming for our title belt... and don't you forget that.

Zero

[/color] :: Oh don't worry Henry. Trust me on that. [/center]

Henry McKaye: ...Good. Besides - you and I still have unfinished business. The God of War never forgets to take care of business. I'll be seein' you, Jay.

Zero raises his eyebrows, rolling his tongue inside of his mouth to the point where he begins to bite down on it to hold in his words. As the two continue to exchange glances, Henry shoots a quick, confident smirk as he begins to step away from the Emperor. Not worried, Zero rolls his eyes, turning towards the opposite direction and off of the scene. This leaves only Charlotte left on camera, yet she as well is at a loss of words as she looks at both men separately as they make their exit down the hallways. What else can Henry McKaye and Jay Zero put each other through?

The scene fades out.

[BK London]

Segment: “Oh no he DI’IN’T!” (Credit: Kudo)

Ghetto Rob: Oh no he DI’IN’T! Who da hell does he think he is cutting us off like dat? Oh mah gawd, I KNEW I shouldn’t have bought that R-3 T-shirt from the ACW website. Gawd! That’s bullshit, what timing.

Haiku Ryu:
Those website prices
Have already beaten you
You must be in debt

As the camera pans out, the gym boys are gathered together along with Alan Albright and sit along a circle on the gym benches.

Washington: I’ve gotta say, I’m not surprised this happened.

Haiku Ryu:
Kudo Yasuda
Is doing what he must do
As a pro wrestler

Albright: Listen boys, I know that Kudo wanted some time alone to find himself, and we should respect what he wants. And you boys do know that life doesn’t begin and end with one person. So I want you to go about your business as you normally would.

Washington: That should be easy for Rob, all he does is annoy the hell out of us all day.

Ghetto Rob: Ayo, shut up. Man why Kudo gotta bail on us like dat? That’s a straight bustah right der.

Washington: You say that to his face and he’d bust your ass alright…

Albright: Kudo just needs a little air, and being stuck in this gym all day breathing in your man funk, I don’t blame him.

Haiku Ryu:
I am still concerned
I’ve heard the legend stories
Of Mr. K.O.

Albright: Don’t worry about it, I’ll keep an eye on him, after all it’s my job. He’s always trying to balance his temper and his obligations. That’s why they call him the Yin-Yang Dragon after all. But boy, that wrestling, it does something to you…

Ghetto Rob: Yeah he be goin’ through his midlife crisis at TWENTY ONE dawg! Aw shoot! Am I right?!

Rob extends his fist in the air for a pound but no one responds.

Ghetto Rob: Man, shut up…

But Ghetto Rob is right. At the pace Kudo Yas---Mr. K.O. was known for, his life, his wrestling life just may have ended by his 40’s; and his dream along with it.

Albright: If there’s one thing I know about Kudo, it’s that he can be trusted to do the right thing. Hell, our entire relationship was founded on trust.

Washington: You mean how he trusts you to sign him up for unwanted goofy appearances?

Ghetto Rob: Or the way he be trusting you to forge his signature?

Haiku Ryu:
Like how he trusts you
To walk in and interrupt
His meditation?

Albright: Oh sure, when you say them all in a row like that it makes it seem like I’m the Boogeyman or something. And I know I’m not that bad.

Albright breaks the “4th wall” and winks at the camera man.

Ghetto Rob (bobbing his head to an imagined beat reflexively as he speaks): Ayo, what I wanna know is how he is gonna just abandon us like a deadbeat daddy? He’s talkin’ bout leadin’ the Armada and whateva and then he just drops da act like dat? Always preachin’ bout R-3, was all dat just a potato sack o’ crap?

Washington: Nice one.

Ghetto Rob: Word.

Albright: I hear ya boys, but the reality is that while Kudo leads R-3, he is still a junior heavyweight trying to make it just the same under the Armada banner. He cannot escape the first R of Rebirth any more than another junior heavyweights. Guys like you. Being the leader does not give him an exemption from self reinvention. In fact, it preaches against neglecting it.

Washington: You know, someone’s gotta make a Wikipedia page for this stuff…

Albright: Yeah, someone’s gotta, but not you guys because you’re supposed to be cleaning up!

The three gym boys let out a slight groan but get straight to work cleaning up their training area for the day, perhaps extra motivated by the parting excerpts of R-3 philosophy.

-Fade Out-

[BK London]

Match 5: Dan White vs. Alexander Starkweather (Credit: Dan White)

Philip: The following match is scheduled for one fall! Coming first to the ring, from Cardiff, Wales, weighing at 240 lbs....”The Welsh Dragon” Dan White!

ANARCHY!!!!!!

”Anarchy in the UK” by The Sex Pistols hits, and even as the first “Anarchy” hits, the fans go batshit mental as Dan White walks out through the curtain. He claps his hands, ready for action, and walks down to the ring, with a pretty simplistic light show, and no pyros. He walks down the ramp, and close to the fans, not shaking their hands, but close enough so they have the chance to touch greatness. He enters the ring, where he warms up at the ropes, and climbs a turnbuckle, throwing his arms in the air and beating this chest. He may do that on one or two of the other turnbuckles, before jumping down and preparing for a fight.

Dan: And his opponent, from Los Angeles, California, weighing at 215 lbs...Alexander Starkweather!

The far-away sounds of Starkweather’s entrance are accompanied by the silhouette of a figure cast onto the jumbo-tron. At the very crescendo of the intro a slow-motion shot of a dark form rising from the foreground is shown in slow motion accompanied by television static while a deep, guttural voice says "Live or die... Make your choice." The song begins in earnest, and Starkweather takes the stage before heading down to the ring amidst a sea of boos, enters the ring, and purposely doesn't give Dan any eye contact.

Bell rings

Starkweather last got into the ring with Dan over two years ago. On that occasion, he handed Dan an injury that plagued Dan for a vast amount of time, until his recent return to action earlier on in the year. So Stark is very cautious about Dan. It's basically entering the ring against a brand new competitor, one that has proved his worth over the past few months. The crowd are hot behind Dan; even though he has since given up his conquest to get one over OCW, he's still the hot face, and the crowd never warmed to Starkweather. They lock up, and quickly break away. They lock up again, and this time Dan gets the advantage, using his elbow to knock Stark in the face, forcing the former World champion to retreat in the corner. He uses his arms to guard his face, and manages to push Dan away. He then responds with some stiff kicks to Dan's upper thigh. Dan tries not to show the pain, gritting his teeth but ultimately giving up to a limp. Starkweather uses this to his advantage, locking Dan in a side headlock and throwing him to the floor. He makes a quick cover, but Dan easily gets a shoulder up before the count of two. Stark lifts Dan to his feet, but boots him in the gut. He goes for a Double Arm Suplex, but Dan manages to lift Stark into a back body drop, to the cheers of the crowd.

Starkweather is quick to his feet, but realises he may have under-estimated Dan. The two lock up again, and Stark attempts an Irish Whip, only for Dan to reverse it. Stark catapults off the ropes, and Dan catches him with a clothesline. Stark is quick to his feet again and Dan hits a second Irish Whip, attempting a second clothesline. This time, Starkweather ducks under the arm. He spins Dan around, and planting him with a knee-mounted Facecrusher. Dan falls to the floor, clutching his face, and Starkweather snarls at the crowd, not caring for their boos and jeers. He makes a cover, but Dan manages to get his should up before the count of three, which surprises Stark and is enough for the crowd to cheer Dan on. Stark doesn't panic; he lifts Dan up, and uses a couple more stiff kicks to keep him under control. He then responds by hitting off the ropes, with a high knee in Dan's face sure to make a swift end to the match. Stark hits the ropes, raises his knee, but Dan then responds miraculously. He grabs Stark's knee, extending the leg and holding the leg out. He then spins it into his patented Dragon Screw, which gets the fans going barmy, as Dan starts to get into his game.

He gets back to his feet, but drops a quick elbow to Starkweather's chest. He then lifts Stark up, and throws him into the corner. Stark collides with it, and is forced to rest there. Dan then grabs him, lifting him up over the ropes and resting him on the apron. Dan keeps hold of Stark, swiftly lifting him over the ropes and planting the Crackpot Innuendo (Slingshot Gutbuster). With another pop rising in the arena, Starkweather writhes around holding his stomach, as Dan looks to end the match. He gets the crowd pumped, as Stark clutches his stomach, ending up seated at the ropes. Dan smirks, slinging himself off the ropes and rushing towards his foe. The 75MPH Kick looks nigh, but Starkweather plays possum; he dives forwards, grabbing Dan's leg and spinning to his feet. Within a second, he has an STF locked in, and Dan is muffling against Stark's forearm, his arms scrambling to find the ropes. Luckily, he is just close enough to grab a nearby rope to avoid any more damage, and Stark reluctantly releases the hold, but not after keeping it held for a couple of seconds. When he releases it, he smirks at the referee. He picks Dan up, and locks him in a Hammerlock. He elbows him in the back, and Dan winces. Stark whips Dan at the ropes and attempts a Tilt-A-Whirl Backbreaker, but Dan manages to reverse it into a Headscissors Takedown, and after the resulting pop both men are down on the ground.

The referee makes a count, but it's not long before both men are stirring, and are on their feet, with the assistance of the ropes. They approach each other and Dan goes to hit a Stunt Bomb, but as he lifts Stark up, Stark raises his knee, grabbing Dan's head and throwing it onto the knee. Dan flies upright, but clearly groggy, and Stark uses this to his advantages. He hooks Dan's arm, running up the turnbuckle to hit a Tornado Armbreaker, but Dan reverses it. With Stark airborne, Dan manages to push him in front of him, and slam him down in a makeshift Sitdown Powerbomb. Dan's shattered, but his cover attempt only earns him a disappointing two-count. Dan sighs but knows he can end the match shortly if he keeps fighting his way through. He picks Stark up again, and throws a couple of elbows in his face. He hits Stark at the ropes, but Stark responds with a face wash elbow of his own. Dan clutches his nose, and a prominent crack is heard across the ring, making our commentary team wince. Starkweather follows this up with the Relapse II, and Dan's head is spiked on the floor. Stark rolls the lifeless Welshman over, but Dan manages to kick out before the three!

[BK London]

Stark can't believe it, and he now loses his cool, confronting the ref over the decision. The referee holds his ground and tries to force Starkweather back, but Stark raises a fist. He's stopped though as Dan pulls on his shorts, trying to roll him up, but Stark does a back roll and lands on his feet. He tries to hit a low dropkick, but Dan rolls out the way and kips himself up. Stark hastily gets to his feet, and falls straight into a Spinechiller. It rattles the ring, and it puts Dan in a good position to put a mark on the match. He gets back to his feet, and beats his chest, a signal for the Stunt Bomb coming up, but then suddenly, the arena darkens.

“Ugly” by The Exies hits, and Dan instantly recognises the theme of that of Jason Freeman's. He turns to the titantron, thinking that this must be Freeman's way of retaliation for Dan's less than fair “confrontation” last Monday night. Dan is ready to forget about Starkweather and go for a fight with Freeman.....but Freeman doesn't walk out. Not wanting to be taken from behind, Dan looks around the back of him, but can't find anyone. He looks back at the titantron with a confused look on his face as the music fades. This look turns from confusion to shock and then dismay as Starkweather rolls Dan up into a cover, getting the 1-2-3!

Philip: Here is your winner...Alexander Starkweather!

The fans furiously boo as Starkweather steals the victory away. He rolls away from Dan, and pulls his arm away from the referee as “Descending” from Lamb of God plays. Dan is on his knees, looking with horror as Starkweather gives him a smirk, but in reality is probably more relieved than anything. Anyone could have won the match, and it did only take a lapse of concentration like it did for either man to have lost this match, and Stark exits the ring to leave Dan to think what might have been.

Dan hasn't got revenge on Starkweather, but clearly has other things on his mind. Where the fuck is Freeman? And what the hell was he doing there? If he wants Dan's attention, he's clearly gotten it with his showing, or “no-showing” here. Dan looks extraordinarily pissed off, as he rolls out of the ring, shaking his head with his disgust.

Since returning, Starkweather has reigned supreme over the ACW roster – will his reign of terror continue?

How will the entire Jay Zero/Henry McKaye/Jake Steele thing work themselves out?

Will BK London finally be able to score some revenge on his Samhain opponent?

See you, on Warfare

[Jake Steele]

People need to start sending in their damn matches.

Besides that - Very solid show.

Honorable Mentions:
Cheng/Scott feud, it's very interesting.
Train's list of superstars he took out.
Kudo pwning BK continously!

[shikari]

Very nice. The Kudo segment at the start was the best, and those who sent in segments did well. In my defense, I thought JJB was sending something in.

[Jack Jefferson]

Another good show, short but sweet.

- I'm liking the prospect of a more serious Thunder Train, could be very interesting and that promo was great.
- Scott Andrews vs. Jake Cheng could be a fantastic feud if both men write as well as we all know they both can, seems to be workin thus far.
- Can't not mention Kudo knocking BK out again, I'm really looking forward to their match at the PPV already, the buildup is great so far and Kudo looks like a true contender now that he's Mr KO again.

[Karate Master Kudo]

Lots of good stuff here in this show.

Jake Steele shined in his segments, liked how you continued with the R-3 idea
Train's "who i've beaten" promo was great
Bryce vs. XS3 could be awesome if it builds to something
Also liking Scott Andrews as a trainer and the whole Jake Cheng feud (as well as Jake's clashing with OCW)

I actually think this was one of the better shows more recently. Good job everyone.