The words “Sometime last week” come across the screen as the scene opens up on a rooftop opposite the IIW Combat arena. Three people are on the rooftop, looking at something in the middle. They are Solace Tatum, Russell Wayne and Curtis and the object they’re looking at appears to be a cannon, not unlike you would find in an ACME sketch.
Russell: This is pretty awesome, no fuse to light, all spring-loaded.
Curtis: Do you think this is a good idea? I mean, considering everything that happened last edition of First Class?
Russell: Curtis, it’s just an opening for First Class being in the combat arena, nothing that’s going to be too dangerous, right?
His question is directed at Solace, who’s now climbed a set of steps positioned at the cannons opening.
Solace: Right. So the stuntman will climb in here, then they’ll be fired off upwards by using of the buttons there. When up in the air, they’ll release their parachute and slowly descend onto the roof of the arena.
Suddenly the steps wobble and Solace fumbles to stay up, dropping something into the cannon.
Solace: Goddamnit! Someone keep this thing steady for me.
Curtis looks on a little confused as Solace begins to climb into the cannon. He looks at Russell who’s messing about with the buttons on the side of the cannon and just shrugs.
Solace: Okay almost got it… If one of you could just tip the cannon forward a little so I can climb out easier??
Curtis: Okay! Hold on, let me just… Oh.
Curtis stares at Russell as a click is heard followed by a ticking sound. Russell backs away and holds his hand up as Curtis scrambles to turn the cannon enough so Solace can slide out, but instead begins turning it up and away.
Solace: Guys?! What is going AARRGGHHHHHHHH!!
Curtis and Russell just look at one another, with the expression on Curtis’ face being one of major panic and concern.
Curtis: Oh my God! Mr. Wayne! You set the charge on the cannon!
Russell: I swear that was an accident Curtis!
Curtis: Mr. Wayne!
Russell: Curtis, you know me… You know I’m not the same guy I was and I’ve changed. But you also know if people insist on not being careful, workplace accidents will happen!
Russell walks off, dusting off his hands together. Curtis slowly moves toward the rooftop edge, wincing as he looks down…
The image slowly blacks out and we realise it’s being played on the big screen at the IIW Combat arena. The crowd go wild as spotlights swirl around the seating area. We close in on Nyssa Laurie and Leanna Wilcox.
Nyssa: Welcome guys and girls to another edition of First Class, coming to you from the Combat Arena!
Leanna: Indeed we are Nyssa and everybody by now should know why we’re here rather than our usual place of action. And if you don’t, basically there had been an incident involving a fire, but that is now being investigated by the Fire Department and other bodies.
Nyssa: But on top of that, Leanna, there’s also the very incident we saw just moments ago! Involving Solace Tatum and a cannon.
Leanna: That’s right, Nyssa. That incident actually occurred earlier on in the last week or so and we’ve been told that tonight would be when any announcement about that was made, so… But let’s get to ringside for now!
“Rise from the Ashes” by Def Rebel hits the speakers and the curtains flutter to reveal Latoya Hixx and Aaliyah Landerson standing at the top of the ramp. The crowd cheer as the two women make their way down the aisle, slapping hands with the fans, all smiles and arms raised. However before they even reach halfway down the aisle both Mercedes-Jane Debonair and Jolie Vexx came out of nowhere and slam Hixx and Landerson from behind, with steel chairs.
Nyssa: What the heck is going on here?! Why are Jolie Vexx and Mercedes out here?!
Leanna: Who knows, Nyssa?! But they’re really going to work on Hixx and Landerson!
The two fan favourites are being stomped and smacked at the guardrail, by Jolie Vexx, as Mercedes grabs a microphone and rolls into the ring, the crowd completely obliterating them both with jeers and boos.
Mercedes: SHUT UP! All of you just shut your mouths right now! You will all listen to what I’ve got to say! Oh and DiMarco, Virus… I wouldn’t bother making your way out here, this match isn’t going to happen…
Jolie lands one more chair shot on Aaliyah Landerson, before climbing into the ring to join Mercedes. The crowds boos are getting louder as Mercy lifts the microphone up to speak again.
Mercedes: Now! We all saw what happened to our perfect little GM, but the question is… What do we, as in Jolie and I, do now she’s gone?! What can we get away with, without anyone of “authority” around to stop us?!
Mercedes and Jolie both laugh a wicked laugh, inaudibly conversing with one another and pointing down at Landerson and Hixx. Suddenly they’re completely stopped in their tracks and their jaws both drop as “Salute” by Little Mix blasts over the speakers. The crowd absolutely roar to life and jump on their feet as the curtain swishes.
Nyssa: HOLY HELL!
Leanna: OH WOW! Looks like things are about to get a little heated here!
From behind the curtain, steps none other than former First Class Women’s Champion, CASIE DEBONAIR! She is however, not dressed to compete, but rather wearing a very swish silk white Powder Alexander McQueen suit, along with white heeled Valentino’s. She swings a microphone in her hand as Jolie and Mercedes scream blue murder towards her from in the ring, but Casie doesn’t react. She checks on Aaliyah Landerson and Latoya Hixx as officials have begun to lead them back up the ramp and behind the curtain as she then turns back to the women in the ring and stares them down for a while… Finally she lifts the microphone.
Casie: No…… No, Mercy… Jolie… This isn’t going to happen! You aren’t going to just waltz in here and do whatever the hell you damn well feel like, whenever you please! ESPECIALLY after what went down and what our athletes have had to deal with in the last fortnight!
Mercedes: Oh yeah? Who’s going to stop us?!
Casie: Ok shhh! Let me just explain something to you alright…? Now I have no idea what’s happened between Jenny Fletcher and Solace Tatum in the last week and to be honest, I didn’t ask as it’s not my business. I’ve got no idea whether or not the VT you’ve all just seen is a literal, or metaphorical representation, of Solace’s situation as again, I’ve not asked. What I do know is that, a few days ago not long after I left the hospital, I took a call from Jenny Fletcher’s office. We had a very long conversation but to cut a long story short… You’re now looking at the new General Manager… OF FIRST CLASS!
Nyssa: NO WAY!
Leanna: WHAT IN THE WORLD??!!
The look of shock on the faces of Mercedes and Jolie are as palpable as the noise coming from the crowd in the IIW Combat Arena and the reactions are polar opposites. Casie has to bite her tongue a little to stop the smirk escaping as Mercedes throws a tantrum in the ring, Vexx trying to calm her down.
Casie: Now, Jolie as you’ve been GM before you realise how difficult certain decisions are, to make. But I’ve come in here with a zero tolerance policy! I don’t care who you are or where you’re from and for your part in what happened tonight, Jolie… YOU’RE SUSPENDED FROM THE SHOW! You will leave with immediate effect and in the next two weeks we’ll decide what happens to you… Please escort her out.
Casie directs the order to two officials who’ve stayed behind while Landerson and Hixx were helped out. They approach the ring and although she doesn’t want to pay any attention, Jolie Vexx reluctantly leaves the ring, telling the officials not to touch her as they escort her down the pathway next to the ramp and towards the exit. The crowds reaction escalates as Casie stands there just looking at Mercedes, whilst she glares at her auntie.
Casie: As for you, my dear niece… I’m afraid that a simple suspension, is not enough for you... We’ve tried to give you advice, the entire family have even pulled an intervention but you just can’t seem to wake up! Apparently, you did slightly from what I was told, whilst I was in the hospital, but what you pulled two weeks ago, showed that as the saying goes, a leopard never changes it’s spots!
Casie looks around and shakes her head as the crowd chant “You’re - Fired! You’re - Fired!” Mercedes continuing to aim a death stare towards Casie. Suddenly two men wearing the stereotypical white coats step out onto the ramp and walk past Casie, heading toward the ring.
Casie: No, I’m sorry to say it’s even gone far beyond firing, for Mercy here. The family have gotten together and we’ve spoken and decided that there’s only one place that’s going to be able to help you now, where we’ve clearly failed! Your dad has signed off on it and given explicit permission… Mercedes, you’re headed to the Resnick Psychiatric Hospital, back home in Los Angeles!
Mercedes absolutely loses it, as the men in white coats approach the ring, throwing the microphone down and preparing to fight. One of the men begins climbing the ring steps and Mercedes lunges for him! He backs away slowly. The crowd begin to erupt again, as the two men talk to one another, as someone dressed in black tracksuit pants and a black hooded top, hood up covering their face, slides into the ring behind Mercedes.
Nyssa: What’s going on here now! Who is this?!
Leanna: I’m not sure, but I think Mercy is about to find out at the same time as the rest of us!
The hooded figure stands behind Mercedes, waiting to pounce as she in turn is egging on the men in white coats to come and get her. The crowds roaring catches her attention she slowly turns around as the figure hits the ropes, coming back and nailing Mercedes with a flying clothesline! Mercedes gets back to her feet slowly but the figure catches her again with railing punches!
Leanna: They’re wailing away on Mercedes here as the men in white coats are getting into the ring.
Nyssa: They’ve really caught Mercedes off guard here as Casie looks on, kick to the gut! JUMPING DOUBLE UNDERHOOK FACEBUSTER!
Leanna: Wait… Isn’t that… Isn’t that the, STEPHANITELY MAYBE?!
Nyssa: Oh my God you’re right! Wait… IT IS HER!
The men in white coats approach a knocked out Mercedes-Jane Debonair as the figure removes their hood to reveal STEPHANIE LACROIX! The crowd go absolutely wild as Mercedes is lifted up to a seating position and a straight jacket is placed on her.
Casie: Now, I never wanted this for you Mercy… You’re family, but apparently we aren’t to you. You got yourself into some pretty messed up stuff and your mental state isn’t okay. So you’ll go back home, where Tyler’s old Psychiatrist, Doctor Hankem, is waiting to give you all the help your dad is willing to pay for… Take her away guys.
One of the men climbs out of the ring and walks down the side of the ramp, coming back with a gurney as the one in the ring finishes up applying the straight jacket before rolling Mercedes out onto the gurney. The two men strap her in and begin wheeling her out.
Nyssa: Wow! I can’t believe what we’re seeing here!
Leanna: Casie Debonair has definitely put her mark on First Class already!
Casie turns around, as Mercedes is wheeled out, addressing the entire arena, as Steph walks up the ramp to meet her.
Casie: So with all that out of the way, I want to address some more things that are going to happen here, from now on…
She looks around at Nyssa and Leanna, politely smiling.
Casie: Now, ladies before I make this announcement I really don’t want you seeing it as a demotion because that isn’t what this is, ok? But as of the next show, Leanna and Nyssa will be our official backstage interviewers!
Nyssa: Wow… That’s…
Leanna: Well it’s pretty sweet honestly!
The crowd roar with approval as Casie turns back to them and smiles.
Casie: I’ve had to make some adjustments given that Sally Bird had some issues she needs to get help for, those guys already have her on a plane on the way to Resnick. So with Nyssa and Leanna taking over backstage… Let me introduce you to your new commentary duo. STEPH AND FRANKIE!
Leanna: Woah!
Nyssa: Absolutely!
Steph by now is already on the stage with Casie, as her girlfriend Frankie, makes her way from behind the curtain. The seal of approval rings out around the Combat arena Casie, Frankie and Steph raise their arms as the crowd cheer louder. Casie paces the stage before putting the mic back to her lips.
Casie: Ok so, for now before I actually let us get back to in-ring action, I’ve got one more announcement. Now Jenny when we spoke told me that obviously being the second ever Women’s Champ here and one of the first to have ever have signed a contract with First Class played a big part in being offered the position… But as we all know since Nova Skye beat me and won the First Class Women’s Championship, she’s been NOWHERE to be seen! Absolutely disappeared off the planet it seems! So, that means this brand currently does not have a Champion! So, from this point on… Leading up to Synergy, we will be hosting a tournament to find our new Champion, starting next week. The first match will feature two of the girls who should have taken part in this opening bout. Aaliyah Landerson and Denise DiMarco!
Nyssa: That is huge!
Leanna: It definitely is, Nys!
Casie: Well that’s it for now, we will have four matches next week and four the week after, as first round preliminaries! I really hope you guys and girls enjoy that… And I hope you enjoy the rest of the night! Have fun!
Little Mix’s “Salute” smashes through the speakers once more as Casie turns to walk back through the curtain, followed by both Frankie and Steph as the crowd continue to go absolutely haywire!
Alessia Capello w/ Robin Vengeance Vs. Edda Wilcox.
Alessia and Edda stare at one another, a look of hatred in each of their eyes as they get ready to start this battle. Both of them knowing that they need to send a message to the other. That they need to ensure that their mutual dislike for one another is resolved. That this match will at least be a step toward resolving those issues. Locking up, the two instantly attempt to out muscle the other - a contest that Alessia wins by simply shoving Edda to the ground and causing her to do a roll before she stands, and walks right into a Capello big boot. Following that, Alessia pulls Edda up to her feet, only to drop her back to the mat with a Belly to belly suplex, then a second one before releasing the hold and rising as Edda lays on the canvas, attempting to regain her breath.
Nyssa: Capello showing off her strength early on here. She doesn't want Edda to get into any sort of rhythm.
Leana: Let's just see how long she can keep this up, or if Edda can find a way into this. Otherwise, I fear you might be right and this will be a very short night.
Alessia nails Edda with a stiff forearm strike as the latter attempts to make her way back to her feet, then a brutal running knee strike to send her crashing back down to the mat.
Nyssa: Well, I think Alessia is answering that for us right now. She seems almost insulted to be in the ring with Edda right now.
Just as Alessia bends down to pick up Edda once more, she is rolled up into a surprise small package.
Leana: Maybe it will be short, but not in the way Alessia expects it to be. Edda pulling out a surprise right there for her.
Nyssa: Caught her slipping. That's for sure.
1!
At the count of 1 and 1/3, Alessia is able to kick her legs up and send Edda free falling back down to the mat. A scowl beginning to rise upon the face of the Greek fighter. She stands and snarls as she charges at Edda, connecting with a double axe handle to the face. The force of which is potentially enough to knock her foe out on the spot. Yet even after hitting the canvas, Edda still stirs as Alessia angrily slams her right foot into her chest and stomach region, even managing to block a few of the boots. Lifting her boot up again, Alessia tries for what would be her seventh stomp, only for her leg to be caught and her body to be thrown over Edda's in a dragon screw.
Leana: There we go. Maybe this will be the window Edda needs to find a way back into this match.
Both women rise, and Edda follows up the dragon screw with a picture perfect dropkick to send Alessia down to the mat, then nails a standing moonsault to cause a gasp to leave the Domina's lips. Smirking, Edda elects not to go for the pin, instead lifting Alessia up and attempting an Irish whip, only for it to be herself that is sent crashing into the corner.
Nyssa: Hah. Edda got too comfortable and played right into Alessia's hands there. Should have just gone for the pin when you had the chance.
Leana: Admittedly, yes. I don't blame her though. She just wanted to toy with Alessia like Alessia had toyed with her.
Robin cheers her friend on at ringside, as Alessia connects with a neckbreaker out of the corner, then delivers a sit-out powerbomb, holding on for the pinning attempt.
1!
2!
At a count of 2 and 1/10, Edda manages to lift her shoulder off the mat, causing Alessia to shoot the referee a frustrated look as she rises, before bending over to pick Edda up - only to be stunned by a forearm strike to the face, then a second one. Yet she remains standing, until Edda connects with a spinning heel kick to send her down to the canvas. A knee drop to the stomach then follows before Edda lifts the dazed Alessia up, this time managing to whip her into the ropes, then dropping down to connect with a back body drop on the rebound.
Leana: Edda firmly in control of this now.
Nyssa: Let's see how long she can maintain it for.
Bouncing off the ropes herself, Edda connects with a leg drop, then hoists Capello up for a spinebuster - powerfully slamming her down to the mat and holding on for the pin.
1!
2!
At the count of 2 and 3/4, Alessia is able to raise her right shoulder off the mat, yet Edda simply smiles. She seemed to have expected her opponent to kick out of the move, even as Robin looks on. Turning around, Edda is stunned by a sharp kick to the face by the now arisen Alessia, but is able to sidestep the follow up attempt at a big boot.
Edda swings at Alessia and catches her full tilt in the jaw! She grabs Alessia’s arm attempting to pull it out of the socket.
Nyssa: Six second magic by Wilcox here?!
Leana: Nope! Alessia has that scouted!
Alessia spins out of Edda’s grasp and she continues into the spin to execute the DISCUS BACK ELBOW! But Edda counters it, lifting Alessia as much as she can…
Nyssa: EXODUS! I don’t believe it! Edda Wilcox managed to hit Alessia with the EXODUS!
Leana: We’ll I’ll be damned!
Edda rolls over and lays across Alessia Capello, grabbing a leg as the count is made…
1……
2…
3!!!
Leana: She did it! Edda Wilcox beat Alessia Capello!
Nyssa: That was such a great match and advert for First Class!!
Ada Pierce (c) Vs. Jamie Riott (Evolution Title Match).
The bell rings and Jamie Riott goes for an arm-bar early on, but Ada comes out of it immediately. Ada drops Riott with a shoulder tackle… Both women get back up and Ada catches Riott with multiple kicks, following up with an arm-drag and when she’s back to her feet again, a slap.
Nyssa: Wow that’s not Ada’s usual routine, a pure slap across the face.
Leana: But it worked, Nyssa look at her all riled up!
Ada continues where she left off and fires punches on Jamie Riott, she hops up onto the second turnbuckle and hits a headscissors takedown! Jamie gets up and launches Ada into the corner with a shoulder barge, whiplashing Ada’s neck and she falls to the ground. Jamie unloads on Ada while she is on the mat, hitting the ropes and dropping an elbow onto Ada’s chest. She covers her!
1…
2… Kick-out!
Leana: Two count for Jamie Riott there…
Nyssa: Riott has the upper hand here and the Evolution Champion is taken by surprise I think!
Leana: You think?!?
Jamie pulls Ada up and kicks at her in the corner. She pulls Ada out and watches her crumble to the mat, before hitting a leg drop from the second rope, she scrambles to the mat herself and puts Ada in a chinlock, but Ada is able to break free, roll over and unload on Jamie Riott. Jamie spins around to come behind Ada, but the Evolution Champion cuts off her charge with a back elbow.
Leana: This match has been back and forth here but it looks like Ada has the momentum now!
Nyssa: If only she can keep this going, she should be able to retain!
Ada unleashes another couple of elbows, then turns and sends Jamie into the ropes, as Jamie comes back at her, Ada nails her with a standing dropkick, drops to her knees and covers Jamie Riott.
1… Quick kick-out!
Ada picks Riott up, but she catches Ada with an uppercut, followed by a spinning heel kick. Riott drags Ada over to the ropes and places her head over the middle rope, backing off into a corner then running and driving her knee into Ada’s head!
Nyssa: Jesus she could have killed her!
Leana: Nah the Champ has a head of brick!
Nyssa: A what?
Leana: Shut up.
Jamie Riott continues to work on Ada before climbing the top rope and nailing the RIOTT SHEILD! She covers Ada again!
1…
2…
Th… KICK OUT!
Riott goes back uptop and signals for a second RIOTT SHEILD! But as she comes down, Ada lifts her leg catching Jamie Riott square in the face! Ada rolls onto her knees, watching Riott holding her face, stunned. Ada approaches Riott and starts laying thick on the TEN HIT STRING as the fans count along with each kick! Once she reaches ten, Ada falls onto Riott and hooks the leg.
1…
2…
3….
Nyssa: Ada’s got her!! She retains!
Leana: Nope! Look! The ref has seen Jamie Riott’s leg on the rope!
The ref taps Ada and points to Jamie’s leg on the ropes, Ada can’t believe it and puts her head in her hands. She leans down and grabs Jamie Riott by the leg pulling her to the center of the ring. Ada rains on Riott with punches. She pulls her to her feet and swings her into the ropes, landing a couple of clotheslines one after another. Ada turns her back on Jamie and KO!!! She covers her.
1…
2…
Thr… Kickout!
Ada picks up Riott again but is caught off guard by about half a dozen body blows, Riott comes off the ropes and baseball slides into Ada’s knee!! Riott hits the rope again but this time stays there… Ada slowly gets to her feet, once she’s up Jamie Riott nails her with the CHAOS RISING Super kick. Before she can cover her she sees something up the ramp.
Nyssa: Wait a minute! What are Robin Vengeance and Alessia Capello doing out here, Leana?!
Leana: Am I their Manager?!
Jamie leans against the ropes, exhausted from the match and shouting down at Robin and Alessia who’ve stopped midway down the ramp and are goading her. Meanwhile Ada has staggered her way to one knee and is catching her breath. Riott waves her hand dismissively toward Vengeance and Capello and starts to turn her attention back to Ada, who’s now on her feet! Ada feigns low and goes high! FIFTY-FIFTY SKULL KICK!! She covers quick!
One……
Two…
Three!!!
Nyssa: And this time Ada Pierce HAS done it! And she retains the Evolution Title!
Leana: I’m blaming Alessia Capello and Robin Vengeance for this one Nys! And I think Jamie Riott will too! Look at her!
Nyssa: And folks this will be the last time you see me, or Leana at this desk but we will from now on be backstage talking to the girls of First Class!
Leana: Next week will be interesting though! Sayonara suckers!!
Jamie, who thought she’d just managed to get a shoulder up has rolled into a corner holding her head and staring daggers up the ramp to Robin Vengeance and Alessia Capello who are both still by the curtain goading her. Ada Pierce has slid out of the ring by now and is holding up the First Class Evolution Title as we go off the air.
Russell: This is pretty awesome, no fuse to light, all spring-loaded.
Curtis: Do you think this is a good idea? I mean, considering everything that happened last edition of First Class?
Russell: Curtis, it’s just an opening for First Class being in the combat arena, nothing that’s going to be too dangerous, right?
His question is directed at Solace, who’s now climbed a set of steps positioned at the cannons opening.
Solace: Right. So the stuntman will climb in here, then they’ll be fired off upwards by using of the buttons there. When up in the air, they’ll release their parachute and slowly descend onto the roof of the arena.
Suddenly the steps wobble and Solace fumbles to stay up, dropping something into the cannon.
Solace: Goddamnit! Someone keep this thing steady for me.
Curtis looks on a little confused as Solace begins to climb into the cannon. He looks at Russell who’s messing about with the buttons on the side of the cannon and just shrugs.
Solace: Okay almost got it… If one of you could just tip the cannon forward a little so I can climb out easier??
Curtis: Okay! Hold on, let me just… Oh.
Curtis stares at Russell as a click is heard followed by a ticking sound. Russell backs away and holds his hand up as Curtis scrambles to turn the cannon enough so Solace can slide out, but instead begins turning it up and away.
Solace: Guys?! What is going AARRGGHHHHHHHH!!
Curtis and Russell just look at one another, with the expression on Curtis’ face being one of major panic and concern.
Curtis: Oh my God! Mr. Wayne! You set the charge on the cannon!
Russell: I swear that was an accident Curtis!
Curtis: Mr. Wayne!
Russell: Curtis, you know me… You know I’m not the same guy I was and I’ve changed. But you also know if people insist on not being careful, workplace accidents will happen!
Russell walks off, dusting off his hands together. Curtis slowly moves toward the rooftop edge, wincing as he looks down…
The image slowly blacks out and we realise it’s being played on the big screen at the IIW Combat arena. The crowd go wild as spotlights swirl around the seating area. We close in on Nyssa Laurie and Leanna Wilcox.
Nyssa: Welcome guys and girls to another edition of First Class, coming to you from the Combat Arena!
Leanna: Indeed we are Nyssa and everybody by now should know why we’re here rather than our usual place of action. And if you don’t, basically there had been an incident involving a fire, but that is now being investigated by the Fire Department and other bodies.
Nyssa: But on top of that, Leanna, there’s also the very incident we saw just moments ago! Involving Solace Tatum and a cannon.
Leanna: That’s right, Nyssa. That incident actually occurred earlier on in the last week or so and we’ve been told that tonight would be when any announcement about that was made, so… But let’s get to ringside for now!
“Rise from the Ashes” by Def Rebel hits the speakers and the curtains flutter to reveal Latoya Hixx and Aaliyah Landerson standing at the top of the ramp. The crowd cheer as the two women make their way down the aisle, slapping hands with the fans, all smiles and arms raised. However before they even reach halfway down the aisle both Mercedes-Jane Debonair and Jolie Vexx came out of nowhere and slam Hixx and Landerson from behind, with steel chairs.
Nyssa: What the heck is going on here?! Why are Jolie Vexx and Mercedes out here?!
Leanna: Who knows, Nyssa?! But they’re really going to work on Hixx and Landerson!
The two fan favourites are being stomped and smacked at the guardrail, by Jolie Vexx, as Mercedes grabs a microphone and rolls into the ring, the crowd completely obliterating them both with jeers and boos.
Mercedes: SHUT UP! All of you just shut your mouths right now! You will all listen to what I’ve got to say! Oh and DiMarco, Virus… I wouldn’t bother making your way out here, this match isn’t going to happen…
Jolie lands one more chair shot on Aaliyah Landerson, before climbing into the ring to join Mercedes. The crowds boos are getting louder as Mercy lifts the microphone up to speak again.
Mercedes: Now! We all saw what happened to our perfect little GM, but the question is… What do we, as in Jolie and I, do now she’s gone?! What can we get away with, without anyone of “authority” around to stop us?!
Mercedes and Jolie both laugh a wicked laugh, inaudibly conversing with one another and pointing down at Landerson and Hixx. Suddenly they’re completely stopped in their tracks and their jaws both drop as “Salute” by Little Mix blasts over the speakers. The crowd absolutely roar to life and jump on their feet as the curtain swishes.
Nyssa: HOLY HELL!
Leanna: OH WOW! Looks like things are about to get a little heated here!
From behind the curtain, steps none other than former First Class Women’s Champion, CASIE DEBONAIR! She is however, not dressed to compete, but rather wearing a very swish silk white Powder Alexander McQueen suit, along with white heeled Valentino’s. She swings a microphone in her hand as Jolie and Mercedes scream blue murder towards her from in the ring, but Casie doesn’t react. She checks on Aaliyah Landerson and Latoya Hixx as officials have begun to lead them back up the ramp and behind the curtain as she then turns back to the women in the ring and stares them down for a while… Finally she lifts the microphone.
Casie: No…… No, Mercy… Jolie… This isn’t going to happen! You aren’t going to just waltz in here and do whatever the hell you damn well feel like, whenever you please! ESPECIALLY after what went down and what our athletes have had to deal with in the last fortnight!
Mercedes: Oh yeah? Who’s going to stop us?!
Casie: Ok shhh! Let me just explain something to you alright…? Now I have no idea what’s happened between Jenny Fletcher and Solace Tatum in the last week and to be honest, I didn’t ask as it’s not my business. I’ve got no idea whether or not the VT you’ve all just seen is a literal, or metaphorical representation, of Solace’s situation as again, I’ve not asked. What I do know is that, a few days ago not long after I left the hospital, I took a call from Jenny Fletcher’s office. We had a very long conversation but to cut a long story short… You’re now looking at the new General Manager… OF FIRST CLASS!
Nyssa: NO WAY!
Leanna: WHAT IN THE WORLD??!!
The look of shock on the faces of Mercedes and Jolie are as palpable as the noise coming from the crowd in the IIW Combat Arena and the reactions are polar opposites. Casie has to bite her tongue a little to stop the smirk escaping as Mercedes throws a tantrum in the ring, Vexx trying to calm her down.
Casie: Now, Jolie as you’ve been GM before you realise how difficult certain decisions are, to make. But I’ve come in here with a zero tolerance policy! I don’t care who you are or where you’re from and for your part in what happened tonight, Jolie… YOU’RE SUSPENDED FROM THE SHOW! You will leave with immediate effect and in the next two weeks we’ll decide what happens to you… Please escort her out.
Casie directs the order to two officials who’ve stayed behind while Landerson and Hixx were helped out. They approach the ring and although she doesn’t want to pay any attention, Jolie Vexx reluctantly leaves the ring, telling the officials not to touch her as they escort her down the pathway next to the ramp and towards the exit. The crowds reaction escalates as Casie stands there just looking at Mercedes, whilst she glares at her auntie.
Casie: As for you, my dear niece… I’m afraid that a simple suspension, is not enough for you... We’ve tried to give you advice, the entire family have even pulled an intervention but you just can’t seem to wake up! Apparently, you did slightly from what I was told, whilst I was in the hospital, but what you pulled two weeks ago, showed that as the saying goes, a leopard never changes it’s spots!
Casie looks around and shakes her head as the crowd chant “You’re - Fired! You’re - Fired!” Mercedes continuing to aim a death stare towards Casie. Suddenly two men wearing the stereotypical white coats step out onto the ramp and walk past Casie, heading toward the ring.
Casie: No, I’m sorry to say it’s even gone far beyond firing, for Mercy here. The family have gotten together and we’ve spoken and decided that there’s only one place that’s going to be able to help you now, where we’ve clearly failed! Your dad has signed off on it and given explicit permission… Mercedes, you’re headed to the Resnick Psychiatric Hospital, back home in Los Angeles!
Mercedes absolutely loses it, as the men in white coats approach the ring, throwing the microphone down and preparing to fight. One of the men begins climbing the ring steps and Mercedes lunges for him! He backs away slowly. The crowd begin to erupt again, as the two men talk to one another, as someone dressed in black tracksuit pants and a black hooded top, hood up covering their face, slides into the ring behind Mercedes.
Nyssa: What’s going on here now! Who is this?!
Leanna: I’m not sure, but I think Mercy is about to find out at the same time as the rest of us!
The hooded figure stands behind Mercedes, waiting to pounce as she in turn is egging on the men in white coats to come and get her. The crowds roaring catches her attention she slowly turns around as the figure hits the ropes, coming back and nailing Mercedes with a flying clothesline! Mercedes gets back to her feet slowly but the figure catches her again with railing punches!
Leanna: They’re wailing away on Mercedes here as the men in white coats are getting into the ring.
Nyssa: They’ve really caught Mercedes off guard here as Casie looks on, kick to the gut! JUMPING DOUBLE UNDERHOOK FACEBUSTER!
Leanna: Wait… Isn’t that… Isn’t that the, STEPHANITELY MAYBE?!
Nyssa: Oh my God you’re right! Wait… IT IS HER!
The men in white coats approach a knocked out Mercedes-Jane Debonair as the figure removes their hood to reveal STEPHANIE LACROIX! The crowd go absolutely wild as Mercedes is lifted up to a seating position and a straight jacket is placed on her.
Casie: Now, I never wanted this for you Mercy… You’re family, but apparently we aren’t to you. You got yourself into some pretty messed up stuff and your mental state isn’t okay. So you’ll go back home, where Tyler’s old Psychiatrist, Doctor Hankem, is waiting to give you all the help your dad is willing to pay for… Take her away guys.
One of the men climbs out of the ring and walks down the side of the ramp, coming back with a gurney as the one in the ring finishes up applying the straight jacket before rolling Mercedes out onto the gurney. The two men strap her in and begin wheeling her out.
Nyssa: Wow! I can’t believe what we’re seeing here!
Leanna: Casie Debonair has definitely put her mark on First Class already!
Casie turns around, as Mercedes is wheeled out, addressing the entire arena, as Steph walks up the ramp to meet her.
Casie: So with all that out of the way, I want to address some more things that are going to happen here, from now on…
She looks around at Nyssa and Leanna, politely smiling.
Casie: Now, ladies before I make this announcement I really don’t want you seeing it as a demotion because that isn’t what this is, ok? But as of the next show, Leanna and Nyssa will be our official backstage interviewers!
Nyssa: Wow… That’s…
Leanna: Well it’s pretty sweet honestly!
The crowd roar with approval as Casie turns back to them and smiles.
Casie: I’ve had to make some adjustments given that Sally Bird had some issues she needs to get help for, those guys already have her on a plane on the way to Resnick. So with Nyssa and Leanna taking over backstage… Let me introduce you to your new commentary duo. STEPH AND FRANKIE!
Leanna: Woah!
Nyssa: Absolutely!
Steph by now is already on the stage with Casie, as her girlfriend Frankie, makes her way from behind the curtain. The seal of approval rings out around the Combat arena Casie, Frankie and Steph raise their arms as the crowd cheer louder. Casie paces the stage before putting the mic back to her lips.
Casie: Ok so, for now before I actually let us get back to in-ring action, I’ve got one more announcement. Now Jenny when we spoke told me that obviously being the second ever Women’s Champ here and one of the first to have ever have signed a contract with First Class played a big part in being offered the position… But as we all know since Nova Skye beat me and won the First Class Women’s Championship, she’s been NOWHERE to be seen! Absolutely disappeared off the planet it seems! So, that means this brand currently does not have a Champion! So, from this point on… Leading up to Synergy, we will be hosting a tournament to find our new Champion, starting next week. The first match will feature two of the girls who should have taken part in this opening bout. Aaliyah Landerson and Denise DiMarco!
Nyssa: That is huge!
Leanna: It definitely is, Nys!
Casie: Well that’s it for now, we will have four matches next week and four the week after, as first round preliminaries! I really hope you guys and girls enjoy that… And I hope you enjoy the rest of the night! Have fun!
Little Mix’s “Salute” smashes through the speakers once more as Casie turns to walk back through the curtain, followed by both Frankie and Steph as the crowd continue to go absolutely haywire!
Alessia Capello w/ Robin Vengeance Vs. Edda Wilcox.
Alessia and Edda stare at one another, a look of hatred in each of their eyes as they get ready to start this battle. Both of them knowing that they need to send a message to the other. That they need to ensure that their mutual dislike for one another is resolved. That this match will at least be a step toward resolving those issues. Locking up, the two instantly attempt to out muscle the other - a contest that Alessia wins by simply shoving Edda to the ground and causing her to do a roll before she stands, and walks right into a Capello big boot. Following that, Alessia pulls Edda up to her feet, only to drop her back to the mat with a Belly to belly suplex, then a second one before releasing the hold and rising as Edda lays on the canvas, attempting to regain her breath.
Nyssa: Capello showing off her strength early on here. She doesn't want Edda to get into any sort of rhythm.
Leana: Let's just see how long she can keep this up, or if Edda can find a way into this. Otherwise, I fear you might be right and this will be a very short night.
Alessia nails Edda with a stiff forearm strike as the latter attempts to make her way back to her feet, then a brutal running knee strike to send her crashing back down to the mat.
Nyssa: Well, I think Alessia is answering that for us right now. She seems almost insulted to be in the ring with Edda right now.
Just as Alessia bends down to pick up Edda once more, she is rolled up into a surprise small package.
Leana: Maybe it will be short, but not in the way Alessia expects it to be. Edda pulling out a surprise right there for her.
Nyssa: Caught her slipping. That's for sure.
1!
At the count of 1 and 1/3, Alessia is able to kick her legs up and send Edda free falling back down to the mat. A scowl beginning to rise upon the face of the Greek fighter. She stands and snarls as she charges at Edda, connecting with a double axe handle to the face. The force of which is potentially enough to knock her foe out on the spot. Yet even after hitting the canvas, Edda still stirs as Alessia angrily slams her right foot into her chest and stomach region, even managing to block a few of the boots. Lifting her boot up again, Alessia tries for what would be her seventh stomp, only for her leg to be caught and her body to be thrown over Edda's in a dragon screw.
Leana: There we go. Maybe this will be the window Edda needs to find a way back into this match.
Both women rise, and Edda follows up the dragon screw with a picture perfect dropkick to send Alessia down to the mat, then nails a standing moonsault to cause a gasp to leave the Domina's lips. Smirking, Edda elects not to go for the pin, instead lifting Alessia up and attempting an Irish whip, only for it to be herself that is sent crashing into the corner.
Nyssa: Hah. Edda got too comfortable and played right into Alessia's hands there. Should have just gone for the pin when you had the chance.
Leana: Admittedly, yes. I don't blame her though. She just wanted to toy with Alessia like Alessia had toyed with her.
Robin cheers her friend on at ringside, as Alessia connects with a neckbreaker out of the corner, then delivers a sit-out powerbomb, holding on for the pinning attempt.
1!
2!
At a count of 2 and 1/10, Edda manages to lift her shoulder off the mat, causing Alessia to shoot the referee a frustrated look as she rises, before bending over to pick Edda up - only to be stunned by a forearm strike to the face, then a second one. Yet she remains standing, until Edda connects with a spinning heel kick to send her down to the canvas. A knee drop to the stomach then follows before Edda lifts the dazed Alessia up, this time managing to whip her into the ropes, then dropping down to connect with a back body drop on the rebound.
Leana: Edda firmly in control of this now.
Nyssa: Let's see how long she can maintain it for.
Bouncing off the ropes herself, Edda connects with a leg drop, then hoists Capello up for a spinebuster - powerfully slamming her down to the mat and holding on for the pin.
1!
2!
At the count of 2 and 3/4, Alessia is able to raise her right shoulder off the mat, yet Edda simply smiles. She seemed to have expected her opponent to kick out of the move, even as Robin looks on. Turning around, Edda is stunned by a sharp kick to the face by the now arisen Alessia, but is able to sidestep the follow up attempt at a big boot.
Edda swings at Alessia and catches her full tilt in the jaw! She grabs Alessia’s arm attempting to pull it out of the socket.
Nyssa: Six second magic by Wilcox here?!
Leana: Nope! Alessia has that scouted!
Alessia spins out of Edda’s grasp and she continues into the spin to execute the DISCUS BACK ELBOW! But Edda counters it, lifting Alessia as much as she can…
Nyssa: EXODUS! I don’t believe it! Edda Wilcox managed to hit Alessia with the EXODUS!
Leana: We’ll I’ll be damned!
Edda rolls over and lays across Alessia Capello, grabbing a leg as the count is made…
1……
2…
3!!!
Leana: She did it! Edda Wilcox beat Alessia Capello!
Nyssa: That was such a great match and advert for First Class!!
Ada Pierce (c) Vs. Jamie Riott (Evolution Title Match).
The bell rings and Jamie Riott goes for an arm-bar early on, but Ada comes out of it immediately. Ada drops Riott with a shoulder tackle… Both women get back up and Ada catches Riott with multiple kicks, following up with an arm-drag and when she’s back to her feet again, a slap.
Nyssa: Wow that’s not Ada’s usual routine, a pure slap across the face.
Leana: But it worked, Nyssa look at her all riled up!
Ada continues where she left off and fires punches on Jamie Riott, she hops up onto the second turnbuckle and hits a headscissors takedown! Jamie gets up and launches Ada into the corner with a shoulder barge, whiplashing Ada’s neck and she falls to the ground. Jamie unloads on Ada while she is on the mat, hitting the ropes and dropping an elbow onto Ada’s chest. She covers her!
1…
2… Kick-out!
Leana: Two count for Jamie Riott there…
Nyssa: Riott has the upper hand here and the Evolution Champion is taken by surprise I think!
Leana: You think?!?
Jamie pulls Ada up and kicks at her in the corner. She pulls Ada out and watches her crumble to the mat, before hitting a leg drop from the second rope, she scrambles to the mat herself and puts Ada in a chinlock, but Ada is able to break free, roll over and unload on Jamie Riott. Jamie spins around to come behind Ada, but the Evolution Champion cuts off her charge with a back elbow.
Leana: This match has been back and forth here but it looks like Ada has the momentum now!
Nyssa: If only she can keep this going, she should be able to retain!
Ada unleashes another couple of elbows, then turns and sends Jamie into the ropes, as Jamie comes back at her, Ada nails her with a standing dropkick, drops to her knees and covers Jamie Riott.
1… Quick kick-out!
Ada picks Riott up, but she catches Ada with an uppercut, followed by a spinning heel kick. Riott drags Ada over to the ropes and places her head over the middle rope, backing off into a corner then running and driving her knee into Ada’s head!
Nyssa: Jesus she could have killed her!
Leana: Nah the Champ has a head of brick!
Nyssa: A what?
Leana: Shut up.
Jamie Riott continues to work on Ada before climbing the top rope and nailing the RIOTT SHEILD! She covers Ada again!
1…
2…
Th… KICK OUT!
Riott goes back uptop and signals for a second RIOTT SHEILD! But as she comes down, Ada lifts her leg catching Jamie Riott square in the face! Ada rolls onto her knees, watching Riott holding her face, stunned. Ada approaches Riott and starts laying thick on the TEN HIT STRING as the fans count along with each kick! Once she reaches ten, Ada falls onto Riott and hooks the leg.
1…
2…
3….
Nyssa: Ada’s got her!! She retains!
Leana: Nope! Look! The ref has seen Jamie Riott’s leg on the rope!
The ref taps Ada and points to Jamie’s leg on the ropes, Ada can’t believe it and puts her head in her hands. She leans down and grabs Jamie Riott by the leg pulling her to the center of the ring. Ada rains on Riott with punches. She pulls her to her feet and swings her into the ropes, landing a couple of clotheslines one after another. Ada turns her back on Jamie and KO!!! She covers her.
1…
2…
Thr… Kickout!
Ada picks up Riott again but is caught off guard by about half a dozen body blows, Riott comes off the ropes and baseball slides into Ada’s knee!! Riott hits the rope again but this time stays there… Ada slowly gets to her feet, once she’s up Jamie Riott nails her with the CHAOS RISING Super kick. Before she can cover her she sees something up the ramp.
Nyssa: Wait a minute! What are Robin Vengeance and Alessia Capello doing out here, Leana?!
Leana: Am I their Manager?!
Jamie leans against the ropes, exhausted from the match and shouting down at Robin and Alessia who’ve stopped midway down the ramp and are goading her. Meanwhile Ada has staggered her way to one knee and is catching her breath. Riott waves her hand dismissively toward Vengeance and Capello and starts to turn her attention back to Ada, who’s now on her feet! Ada feigns low and goes high! FIFTY-FIFTY SKULL KICK!! She covers quick!
One……
Two…
Three!!!
Nyssa: And this time Ada Pierce HAS done it! And she retains the Evolution Title!
Leana: I’m blaming Alessia Capello and Robin Vengeance for this one Nys! And I think Jamie Riott will too! Look at her!
Nyssa: And folks this will be the last time you see me, or Leana at this desk but we will from now on be backstage talking to the girls of First Class!
Leana: Next week will be interesting though! Sayonara suckers!!
Jamie, who thought she’d just managed to get a shoulder up has rolled into a corner holding her head and staring daggers up the ramp to Robin Vengeance and Alessia Capello who are both still by the curtain goading her. Ada Pierce has slid out of the ring by now and is holding up the First Class Evolution Title as we go off the air.
