Post by Staff on Feb 17, 2024 15:51:36 GMT
LIVE! From Yonkers
Monday 19th February
We begin the show with a couple of pre-recorded segments.
COLD OPENING
We go to footage that took place earlier in the day. The arena empty...no seats, no referees, no wrestlers just a camera crew. Eventually the cameras pan to Griffin Hawkins who is sititng in the corner of the ring in his street clothes, Blue jeans and a Motorhead T-Shirt. The 5LW Openweight Title rests at his feet as he lays back, his arms leaning against the ropes. After some silence he speaks.
Griffin Hawkins: Thank you Alejandro Rivera.....this sounds shocking coming from me, but thank you. Thank you for smartening me up. Because I was beginning to get a little bit complacent...a little bit too comfortable. I was in a match with Ryan Samuels..and there you are laying me out. Throwing the belt by my unconscious body. So I want to say thank you for kicking the shit out of me and laying me out in the middle of the ring. But only thing is....you had to do it when my guard was down. You had to do it right when I was in the middle of a match with the Brass Knuckles champion. More importantly you had to double team me with the same guy who punked you out and beat your ass so bad you had to be helped out of the arena by the officials....even going as far as to take your nickname...and you've done nothing about it. Sadly Rivera, all you've proven is you're a bitch made bitch. But that's another story for another day.
He begins to stroke his chin.
Griffin Hawkins: As I was lying on the trainer's table after the show went off the air....I kept asking myself, where is this badass that everyone keeps talking about? Where's this big bad bruiser from the boroughs? Where is the guy who got voted to be a future Undisputed Champion? Because...I don't see him. Hell..I'm still standing after all the scrapes we've had. See Rivera..you and me both come from the streets, just different locations. And what I learned on the streets is that if you got a problem with somebody, you find him...look him in the face and you knock his ass out. But I guess you were taught things differently. If you were the man you say you were, you would've met up with me face to face whether it be in the ring or in the back and we would've have settled our shit with a fight...but you want to be a little punk bitch and jump me in the middle of a match because you know that you could never do it to me straight up like a man. And now...you finally got what you've been whining and crying and moaning about for the last few months, a one on one rematch with me for this very title. And this time...there won't be no Ryan Samuels to help your chickenshit ass put me down. This time it's you and me...for all the gold.
He slowly reaches over and picks up the title.
Griffin Hawkins: See Papi....I'm different from you. Shocking I know, but I am not like you. And there are many reasons why we are different. See...I don't have to make up a million nicknames to convince myself I'm great, I don't need act like some edgy wannabe tough guy dudebro on social media to try and convince the world that I'm a badass, I don't need to send death threats to my opponent in some lame attempt to sound intimidating, and I sure as fuck don't need my girl to mindlessly swing from every asinine word I say and hype me up on twitter because I'm not confident in myself enough to believe in my abilities. Is all this what makes Aleandro Rivera so "based"? A guy who throws himself one big pity party every time he loses a match? Please. And how am I different from all that?
He clutches the title.
Griffin Hawkins: Because every time I go out there to that ring...I go out and fight. I don't need someone to be my cheerleader on social media, I don't need to act like I'm some false King that everybody should be afraid of...all I need is for that bell to ring and I come out fighting. And you know that more than anyone..because every time we stepped in the ring together, it was me who brought the fight to you ...especially when I took this very belt from you. And once again...we're gonna clash for it to see who really deserves to be the Openweight Champion once and for all. No more sneak attacks, no more bitching and moaning on social media about how I never gave you a rematch one on one for the gold. It's all here right in front of you, but you're going to have to go through me to get it. But is this what it's all about Rivy?
He adjusts the title to his shoulder.
Griffin Hawkins: You didn't care about this belt until you lost it to me. You didn't even have any defenses with it, you just carried it around thinking it makes you a big man. This isn't really about the title to you...this is about your fragile bruised ego. You can't stand the fact that someone beat you for your gold. You've held a grudge against me since the day I took this belt from you, claiming I couldn't hang with you despite having the belt that says otherwise. Well I defended this title against three of the best in 5LW including you...especially when you threatened to go through everyone in that match. And I also beat the former Openweight Champion Jay Sinclair to prove that I am no fluke. I want to hold this title because I want to be the best in this company..the guy to beat. You only want this title for bragging rights. I've done more for this belt than you ever have in your 5LW career and that makes you jealous. Hell...you think winning this belt back is gonna fix everything. You think it's going to fix you and all the problems you had from 2023 going into 2024. Even if you somehow get it off me..it's not going to fix you. It's not going to change what you are. You call yourself the one true king..when in reality you're a 6'3 245 pound man baby....a spoiled entitled child who throws a tantrum anytime you don't get what he want. And this night is not gonna be any different, because I am prepared to give you the fight of a lifetime. You said this belt is a curse?....bitch, you're looking at your curse.
He lies back holding the belt.
Griffin Hawkins: What was that you said on social media a few days ago? How I've been ducking you for so long because I'm afraid of facing the new and improved you or whatever. I gotta ask you Rivera...what color is the sky in your world? You think I've been ducking you? You must really have a bad memory. Because if I remember correctly, you abandoned your quest for the Openweight Title to compete in the Brass Knuckles tournament for the last few weeks to try and fulfil your "genius" plan to take over 5LW by winning the Brass Knuckles title, then win my title, then win the Undisputed Title from Nessa Reckless so you can be a Triple Crown winner. Didn't work out did it? See, if you wanted a rematch you know goddamn well that I would've given it to you...no questions asked. All you had to do was step to me like a man and challenge me one on one for a rematch and you would've gotten it sooner. But no..that's not how you operate. You want to push your narrow minded narrative that you're the "almighty" One True King and everyone on the roster is afraid of you when in reality they laugh at you. I guess it was the "new you" who decided to jump me like a little punk bitch. It's a shame that you and Andrew Raynes are having problems getting along..because you both would make the most epic tag team of all time. I can see it on the marquee...The Toughest Out....and The Softest Out. Has a nice ring to it doesn't it?
He slowly begins to get up.
Griffin Hawkins: It's obvious you don't want me here in 5 Lakes..I still remember you saying that you were going to send me out of here..how 5 Lakes doesn't need me..whatever whatever. You don't want me here because I am a threat to you and you know it. I saw it in your eyes as you were stomping me...beating me down. You wouldn't do this to somebody unless you were afraid of them. You call your previous losses beating a dead horse...when in reality it's you trying to forget all your failures like they never happened. And win or lose..if you think I'm gonna leave..it's not happening. Arley Kirk brought me here because she knew I thrived on competition. This is something I've been doing long before you ever put on a pair of wrestling boots. Because while you were off in boxing getting your ass knocked out by jabronis my sister could beat to a pulp...I was main eventing Madison Square Garden with the World Title around my shoulder. I'm not going anywhere..you are going to have to deal with seeing me every week...and you are going to have to deal with me beating your ass one more time and leaving with my Openweight Title.
He looks straight at the camera,
Griffin Hawkins: I don't know whats going to happen tonight Alejandro...any one of us could win this match. Could be you...could be me. But all you need to know is you're going to have to be better than you've ever been to take this from me. You brag that this is a new Alejandro Rivera...then prove it. Step up to the plate, show me what you got. Are you everything you say you are? Or is everything that comes out of your mouth bullshit? Becuase now that it's one on one, there will be no more excuses. No more of saying how I didn't even pin you or how I avoided you. You say you're coming for my head? I say bring it on bitch...because The One True King....is gonna get rocked.
He leaves the ring as the camera crew close everything out.
EARLIER IN THE DAY
Sitting on the production crate before the show opens, we see Duke Andrews with his hand running though his dark hair. The greys showing as he combs the hair back before looking up in the direction of the camera. A soft sigh escapes his lips.
Duke Andrews: I’m sick of this game. Sick of the fact that since I’ve stepped foot in this company that everything has gone to shit. I have to sit back and watch that fake fuck Griffin parade around like he’s some god?
Duke releases the hold in his hair. His entire look was different tonight. No longer wearing the long tights, he was sporting a pair of white trunks, a tribal design in blue across the front. These were from a time long ago. The script reading “Perfection” in gold on the back. His kick pads traded in for the classic matte black wrestling boots. His right knee taped and sporting a DonJoy steel knee brace. His elbow pads white with a blue and gold design that match the knee pads.
Duke Andrews: Y’all think that the Epitome of Perfection is just some tagline. Y’all forget it’s a way of life. It isn’t just some stupid bullshit catch phrase to get a pop. It isn’t that phrase used to sell shirts. It’s a fucking mindset that I’ve gone away from. I’ve settled into the fact that I’m on the back end of my career and maybe I’ve been able to coast a bit. But that shit stops here.
Duke grabbed the black athletic tape that was sitting at his side. Slowly he wraps the tape around his thumb before wrapping his palm and wrist.
Duke Andrews: “I have sat back long enough, allowed the Busch league rejects get one over far too often to be acceptable. I’ve seen the shit on twitter. I’ve seen the cocky pissants like Alejandro walk around like he’s the second coming of Jesus himself. And tonight, that comes to an end. Tonight, I begin the resurrection of my time in Five Lakes. Tonight, the Great Lakes Son comes back to his roots. Tonight, Duke Andrews makes good on his promise when he signed his contract. Every soul in this locker room is officially on notice. Every single human that is employed by Five Lakes is on notice that I will not stop until my name is at the god damn top. And Sean Parker, that means it starts with you.
RINGSIDE
From there we cut back to ringside for a run down of tonight's matches with the commentary team, before a quick pan around the arena shows various signs held in the crowd, such as..
'KORE 4 GENERAL MANAGER!'
and..
'Chris Styles is NOT a pussy'
OPENING BOUT
SINGLES MATCH
Duke Andrews v Sean Parker
Andrews was unsuccessful in his bid to win the TV Title last time out. Although if Myra Rivers hadn’t come out and attacked his friend in Gabe Landry it might be a different story. His opponent Parker had an impressive debut followed by an epic match with Jessi Osborne in White Plains, where he just came up short. Both men were looking to bounce back here in a much anticipated opening bout. Andrews showed his experience early on and read Parker all too well, getting several two counts, and looking every bit the top tier star he’s proved to be in other promotions. But Parker had his moments too, and despite being on the back foot for a large chunk of this fight, he rallied back on several occasions and sprung a surprise with a clever roll up, throwing his weight down to hold on for the three count. Duke wasn’t impressed afterwards, adamant that he got the kick out. Parker extended his hand for him to shake but Andrews slapped it away, not showing any sportsmanship whatsoever, frustrated at losing a match he had mostly been in control of.
Winner: Sean Parker
IN THE RING
Silas Romero came out to the ring. He wasn't due to be booked tonight but unsurprisingly he had a few things to say. He reiterated everything he had said online this week about Colin Moriarty, and that if he hadn't stuck his nose in to last week’s match, everyone here tonight would be watching him become Undisputed Champion in a well deserved rematch. He called out Frank James and demanded another fight with Vanessa, this time for the Title. James appeared on the ramp and said he understood why he was sore. Many people had looked forward to that fight last week, himself included. It was time for Vanessa to defend her belt against a worthy challenger though, so he had made a decision. Before he could continue though Kore Violet appeared on the big screen behind him. She was on a sofa, presumably at home, with Colin Moriarty curled up next to her. She told Silas to stop crying, and insisted that Moriarty was saving 5LW from an awful potential match for the title. Everyone wants to see her and Nessa FINALLY get it on, one on one, without anyone else getting in the way. That’s the match Frank James should be making. Nessa Reckless then appeared on the other half of the screen, her belt slung across her shoulder. She found it flattering that so many people wanted a piece of her. The Reckless Era was truly beginning to take shape. Given the choice she wasn’t sure who she would like to beat more, so she would let Frank James make the decision. James said there was only one way to settle this. Kore and Silas would square off on 2 weeks time, at LIVE! From Rochester. And just to add some spice, Moriarty would be banned from ringside, and Vanessa Reckless would be Special Guest Referee. Vanessa laughed, while everyone else, bar Moriarty, seemed satisfied with the outcome.
LOW CARD
HARDCORE RULES
Spencer Rourke v Sally Lambert
A mouth watering fight between these two deatchmatch specialists didn’t disappoint, as they took turns to put each other through tables and chairs. Lambert bought a goodie bag of weapons including a barbed wire bat, a cheese grater and a pane of glass but Rourke was more interested in using his fists. Nevertheless he put her through the glass, and ran the grater down her back as the blood spilled out across the ring, but he narrowly missed a shot to the head when she later swung the bat at him. It was enough to catch her off balance and he finished the match with his Full Metal Jacket through another table to get the win.
Winner: Spencer Rourke
LOW CARD
NEWCOMER SHOWCASE
ELIMINATION MATCH
Rose Spears v Zara Walker v Blake Belladonna v Mikaela Callaway v Ichabod Thrasher v Indie Legends
The six newcomers made their way, all bar Belladonna making their debut tonight. After losing her first match she didn’t last long here either, succumbing to a Mass Relay (Brazilian/Question Mark Kick) from Thrasher. Spears got a few shots on him from behind thereafter, but she too was sent packing by the ‘Real Rude Dude’ following a Brannigans Law (Double Underhook Flipping Lungblower). With Callaway and Legends duking it out on the otherwise of the ring he turned his attention to Zara Walker. This one didn’t go as easy though and she more than matched him with her the technical prowess. Thrasher was full of confidence now though, and rescued it back with a desperate Arm Trap Cut Throat Crossface he calls Emmure to claim his third elimination. There was to be no more though as he was swiftly doubled teamed by Callaway and Legends, as we got a first glimpse of Mikaela’s Way (Michinoku Driver II) up close, leaving just two in the ring. Legends knew what she was doing though in allowing Callaway to take the glory in eliminating Thrasher, and caught her off guard with The Pinup Girl (Pin Up Strong) to steal the win and secure an impressive debut.
Winner: Indie Legends
Total Eliminations:
Thrasher - 3
Callaway - 1
Legends - 1
BACKSTAGE
Travis Levitt was on his way to the ring when he came across Sean Parker. Levitt said he’d seen what went down earlier and he wasn’t impressed. 5LW was full of assholes like that, with no respect. This place needed more people like him and Parker around. Parker agreed, and wished him well for his match.
MID CARD
SINGLES MATCH
Travis Levitt v Andrew Raynes
The two veterans came face to face but neither flinched before a good back and forth of right hands and power moves. Levitt got the upper hand and hit a series of Suplexes and slams to Raynes back, but the tables turned with a boot to the face. Raynes then started working away on his opponent, focusing on the left knee to the point that Levitt struggled to stand. He'd clearly done his homework butThe Dragon refused to stay down and fought his way back in momentarily, however a clever reversal from Raynes was sealed with a rope assisted pinfall that Levitt couldn’t overpower. The crowd weren’t pleased but Raynes didn’t care. The Toughest Out was back to winning ways and as usual did whatever was necessary to get himself over.
Winner: Andrew Raynes
IN THE RING
Frank James came out to announce more details around the details around the Television Title Gauntlet match. The crowd were excited for this, as he announced the names one by one, a brief image of them appearing on the big screen simultaneously. He added that the running order of this match would be confirmed nearer the time after the draw was made. This was going to be like nothing we’ve ever seen before, as over 20 men and women contest this match one after another, with the Television Title on the line each and every time.
Colin Moriarty
Tiffany Lynne Page
Duke Andrews
Callie Renton
Andrew Raynes
Jack McGrath
Spencer Rourke
Griffin Hawkins
Rose Spears
Blake Belladonna
Zara Walker
Chris Styles
Journeyman Phillips
Sally Lambert
Jessi Osborne
Icabod Thrasher
Tinsley Nolan
Sean Parker
Andrew Garrison
Travis Levitt
Tater
Mikaela Callaway
Kimberley Williams
Special Guest
MID CARD
TAG TEAM MATCH
FREAKSHOW v Gabriel Landry & Marisol Vilaro
A preview of next weeks Tag Title Tournament saw these two sides square off with an opportunity to send an early message to the rest of the field. Landry and Vilaro were cautioned on several occasions for using the ropes illegally to their advantage, but showed promising signs of their ability as a team when made to fight fair. Even so the experience of Freakshow came to the fore as the match wore on and a close encounter was won by a Superkick from Lexi to Vilaro. Vayden played his role to a tee in fending off Landry as he tried to break the pin. Eight teams fight it out next week, with the newcomers setting the bar high with this victory.
Winners: FREAKSHOW
BACKSTAGE
Andrew Raynes was with Tiffany Lynn Page and Duke Andrews. Duke was moaning about his match earlier, and how he clearly beat the count. Page agreed, there was no way a guy like Parker could beat her Duke, questioning the Referees integrity. Travis Levitt then appeared. He didn’t hold back in telling Duke to stop pointing the blame at everyone else. He lost fair and square. He on the other hand was cheated out of a potential victory. He demanded a rematch with Raynes, who immediately squared up to him, but Sean Parker then came around the corner himself. From there things escalated further, with Andrews throwing insults and slander in his direction. Eventually match officials and ring crew came between then to settle it down and ensure they went their separate ways.
UPPER MID CARD
TELEVISION TITLE MATCH
Kimberley Williams (c) v Jack McGrath
Williams pulled off a surprise win last time out to claim Chelsea LeClair’s Title in an exciting triple threat ladder match. Her first defence was an altogether different challenge though, as she came face to face with the enigmatic Jack McGrath. The one eyed monster put the fear of god in many but ‘The Woman Scorned’ wasn’t phased by his presence as they came face to face in the centre of the ring. McGrath put the boot in early, attempting to land a quick, decisive victory. But Williams was tougher than she looks and fought back with venom, dominating for much of the match. However, McGrath managed to rescue this one from the brink with a devastating Fatal Dose (Hangman's neckbreaker) followed up by the Cold Snap (Cradle Piledriver) to capture his first 5LW Championship, in impressive circumstances. There were no celebrations. Zero emotion or adulation in his victory, as he picked up the belt and slung it over his shoulder, exiting to his music as though nothing had happened.
Winner: Jack McGrath (New Television Champion)
HEADLINER
NON-TITLE
Jessi Osborne v Tiffany Lynn Page
North American champion Page would never admit it but was no doubt thankful this encounter wasn’t for her Title, as the self proclaimed World’s Finest put her thought be ringer for a long period of this match. Page was allowed back in by hook or by crook on a few occasions, but Osborne soon pulled things around in her favour with an array of strikes and take-downs. Page though was always one step ahead, at least in her eyes, and rolled out of the ring clutching her shoulder. She waved the match off to the Ref declaring she was unable to continue after an armbar takedown, an ‘illegal and dangerous move’ she claimed. The Referee was having none of it though and counted her out as she picked up her belt and was helped up the ramp by Duke, miraculously recovering by the top to lift the Title high in the air, to Jessi and the fans irritation.
Winner: Jessi Osborne (by count out)
BACKSTAGE
Kimberley Williams was backstage with Emma Harrington, visibly disappointed in her defeat just seven days after she had won the Title. She put on a brave face though and vowed to reclaim the belt at the next opportunity, in two weeks time no less, grateful that she was given the shot in the first place. As far as she was concerned she had unfinished business, and many, many television shows still to reinstate when the time comes!
BACKSTAGE
From one Queen to another, as Jessi Osborne is walking through the backstage area, noticeably frustrated at the outcome of her match tonight, as she passes by AJ Rivera backstage. They stop and talk, as Osborne explains what went down moments earlier. Rivera isn’t surprised, declaring them ‘all fucking pussies.’ Jessi’s going it alone now and is a threat to anyone’s championship, including the one he'll be holding, he says. They give each other a quick fist bump as he continues on his way towards the ring, as Griffin Hawkins is then shown in another area of the building, a split screen hyping their match up, coming next.
MAIN EVENT
OPENWEIGHT TITLE MATCH
Griffin Hawkins (c) v Alejandro Rivera
The two men came face to face, as the belt was raised in the air behind them for everyone to see. The cold stares soon turned into trash talk as they began throwing insults and threats before it quickly evolved into the violent chaos we all expected. Hawkins was under the cosh early on but used his experience to fight back and largely dominate the opening stages of the fight. Rivera was a powerful man though and reversed several whips on the Jukebox Hero to his advantage. As the fight wore on both men gradually fatigued from the high energy and punishment they had put one another through. Rivera looked to be on his way to defeat when Hawkins locked on the Whammy Bar (Fujiwara Armbar) but through gritted teeth he wormed his way to the ropes. It looked like the damage had been done, as the crowd willed on the popular Hawkins to retain his belt, and become the longest reigning champion in Five Lakes history, but Rivera, for all his sins and flaws, was a warrior who wanted, dare we say needed, this victory. Hawkins had him on the ropes, beating him down with signature move after signature move, a series of two counts most people would not overcome, until Papi pulled a Backdrop Driver (Protect Ya Neck), from nowhere. Hawkins was bruised and hurt but seemed to overcome it well, however that kick started the adrenaline rush Rivera needed to get back into this fight, as he followed it up with a hard-hitting clothesline. From there he hit the Dream Shatterer (Diamond Head), but Hawkins too was not ready to give in, kicking out at the dying second. He picked up his rival and Hawkins started fighting back, the crowd going berserk, but just as he looked to be pulling it back in his favour Rivera pulled out a Wrist Clutch Burning Hammer he calls Capital Punishment!! A weary Rivera made the pin as the count as made. Jeers ran out throughout the arena as his music began to play, but he didn't care, emotionally clutching the title he had lost some 111 days ago.
Winner: Alejandro Rivera (New Openweight Champion)
Three months Hawkins has held this title, but it was back in the hands of the man he won it from. The crowd, no matter how much they disliked it, could not take that away from Rivera. He had to dig extremely deep to prize it from Hawkins, who had elevated the belt to new highs in his tenure. Now Rivera would need to do the same, if not more, to get that same credibility. Hawkins pulled himself to his feet to an applause, staring up the entrance ramp at a snarling Rivera as the night came to a close.
Monday 19th February
We begin the show with a couple of pre-recorded segments.
COLD OPENING
We go to footage that took place earlier in the day. The arena empty...no seats, no referees, no wrestlers just a camera crew. Eventually the cameras pan to Griffin Hawkins who is sititng in the corner of the ring in his street clothes, Blue jeans and a Motorhead T-Shirt. The 5LW Openweight Title rests at his feet as he lays back, his arms leaning against the ropes. After some silence he speaks.
Griffin Hawkins: Thank you Alejandro Rivera.....this sounds shocking coming from me, but thank you. Thank you for smartening me up. Because I was beginning to get a little bit complacent...a little bit too comfortable. I was in a match with Ryan Samuels..and there you are laying me out. Throwing the belt by my unconscious body. So I want to say thank you for kicking the shit out of me and laying me out in the middle of the ring. But only thing is....you had to do it when my guard was down. You had to do it right when I was in the middle of a match with the Brass Knuckles champion. More importantly you had to double team me with the same guy who punked you out and beat your ass so bad you had to be helped out of the arena by the officials....even going as far as to take your nickname...and you've done nothing about it. Sadly Rivera, all you've proven is you're a bitch made bitch. But that's another story for another day.
He begins to stroke his chin.
Griffin Hawkins: As I was lying on the trainer's table after the show went off the air....I kept asking myself, where is this badass that everyone keeps talking about? Where's this big bad bruiser from the boroughs? Where is the guy who got voted to be a future Undisputed Champion? Because...I don't see him. Hell..I'm still standing after all the scrapes we've had. See Rivera..you and me both come from the streets, just different locations. And what I learned on the streets is that if you got a problem with somebody, you find him...look him in the face and you knock his ass out. But I guess you were taught things differently. If you were the man you say you were, you would've met up with me face to face whether it be in the ring or in the back and we would've have settled our shit with a fight...but you want to be a little punk bitch and jump me in the middle of a match because you know that you could never do it to me straight up like a man. And now...you finally got what you've been whining and crying and moaning about for the last few months, a one on one rematch with me for this very title. And this time...there won't be no Ryan Samuels to help your chickenshit ass put me down. This time it's you and me...for all the gold.
He slowly reaches over and picks up the title.
Griffin Hawkins: See Papi....I'm different from you. Shocking I know, but I am not like you. And there are many reasons why we are different. See...I don't have to make up a million nicknames to convince myself I'm great, I don't need act like some edgy wannabe tough guy dudebro on social media to try and convince the world that I'm a badass, I don't need to send death threats to my opponent in some lame attempt to sound intimidating, and I sure as fuck don't need my girl to mindlessly swing from every asinine word I say and hype me up on twitter because I'm not confident in myself enough to believe in my abilities. Is all this what makes Aleandro Rivera so "based"? A guy who throws himself one big pity party every time he loses a match? Please. And how am I different from all that?
He clutches the title.
Griffin Hawkins: Because every time I go out there to that ring...I go out and fight. I don't need someone to be my cheerleader on social media, I don't need to act like I'm some false King that everybody should be afraid of...all I need is for that bell to ring and I come out fighting. And you know that more than anyone..because every time we stepped in the ring together, it was me who brought the fight to you ...especially when I took this very belt from you. And once again...we're gonna clash for it to see who really deserves to be the Openweight Champion once and for all. No more sneak attacks, no more bitching and moaning on social media about how I never gave you a rematch one on one for the gold. It's all here right in front of you, but you're going to have to go through me to get it. But is this what it's all about Rivy?
He adjusts the title to his shoulder.
Griffin Hawkins: You didn't care about this belt until you lost it to me. You didn't even have any defenses with it, you just carried it around thinking it makes you a big man. This isn't really about the title to you...this is about your fragile bruised ego. You can't stand the fact that someone beat you for your gold. You've held a grudge against me since the day I took this belt from you, claiming I couldn't hang with you despite having the belt that says otherwise. Well I defended this title against three of the best in 5LW including you...especially when you threatened to go through everyone in that match. And I also beat the former Openweight Champion Jay Sinclair to prove that I am no fluke. I want to hold this title because I want to be the best in this company..the guy to beat. You only want this title for bragging rights. I've done more for this belt than you ever have in your 5LW career and that makes you jealous. Hell...you think winning this belt back is gonna fix everything. You think it's going to fix you and all the problems you had from 2023 going into 2024. Even if you somehow get it off me..it's not going to fix you. It's not going to change what you are. You call yourself the one true king..when in reality you're a 6'3 245 pound man baby....a spoiled entitled child who throws a tantrum anytime you don't get what he want. And this night is not gonna be any different, because I am prepared to give you the fight of a lifetime. You said this belt is a curse?....bitch, you're looking at your curse.
He lies back holding the belt.
Griffin Hawkins: What was that you said on social media a few days ago? How I've been ducking you for so long because I'm afraid of facing the new and improved you or whatever. I gotta ask you Rivera...what color is the sky in your world? You think I've been ducking you? You must really have a bad memory. Because if I remember correctly, you abandoned your quest for the Openweight Title to compete in the Brass Knuckles tournament for the last few weeks to try and fulfil your "genius" plan to take over 5LW by winning the Brass Knuckles title, then win my title, then win the Undisputed Title from Nessa Reckless so you can be a Triple Crown winner. Didn't work out did it? See, if you wanted a rematch you know goddamn well that I would've given it to you...no questions asked. All you had to do was step to me like a man and challenge me one on one for a rematch and you would've gotten it sooner. But no..that's not how you operate. You want to push your narrow minded narrative that you're the "almighty" One True King and everyone on the roster is afraid of you when in reality they laugh at you. I guess it was the "new you" who decided to jump me like a little punk bitch. It's a shame that you and Andrew Raynes are having problems getting along..because you both would make the most epic tag team of all time. I can see it on the marquee...The Toughest Out....and The Softest Out. Has a nice ring to it doesn't it?
He slowly begins to get up.
Griffin Hawkins: It's obvious you don't want me here in 5 Lakes..I still remember you saying that you were going to send me out of here..how 5 Lakes doesn't need me..whatever whatever. You don't want me here because I am a threat to you and you know it. I saw it in your eyes as you were stomping me...beating me down. You wouldn't do this to somebody unless you were afraid of them. You call your previous losses beating a dead horse...when in reality it's you trying to forget all your failures like they never happened. And win or lose..if you think I'm gonna leave..it's not happening. Arley Kirk brought me here because she knew I thrived on competition. This is something I've been doing long before you ever put on a pair of wrestling boots. Because while you were off in boxing getting your ass knocked out by jabronis my sister could beat to a pulp...I was main eventing Madison Square Garden with the World Title around my shoulder. I'm not going anywhere..you are going to have to deal with seeing me every week...and you are going to have to deal with me beating your ass one more time and leaving with my Openweight Title.
He looks straight at the camera,
Griffin Hawkins: I don't know whats going to happen tonight Alejandro...any one of us could win this match. Could be you...could be me. But all you need to know is you're going to have to be better than you've ever been to take this from me. You brag that this is a new Alejandro Rivera...then prove it. Step up to the plate, show me what you got. Are you everything you say you are? Or is everything that comes out of your mouth bullshit? Becuase now that it's one on one, there will be no more excuses. No more of saying how I didn't even pin you or how I avoided you. You say you're coming for my head? I say bring it on bitch...because The One True King....is gonna get rocked.
He leaves the ring as the camera crew close everything out.
EARLIER IN THE DAY
Sitting on the production crate before the show opens, we see Duke Andrews with his hand running though his dark hair. The greys showing as he combs the hair back before looking up in the direction of the camera. A soft sigh escapes his lips.
Duke Andrews: I’m sick of this game. Sick of the fact that since I’ve stepped foot in this company that everything has gone to shit. I have to sit back and watch that fake fuck Griffin parade around like he’s some god?
Duke releases the hold in his hair. His entire look was different tonight. No longer wearing the long tights, he was sporting a pair of white trunks, a tribal design in blue across the front. These were from a time long ago. The script reading “Perfection” in gold on the back. His kick pads traded in for the classic matte black wrestling boots. His right knee taped and sporting a DonJoy steel knee brace. His elbow pads white with a blue and gold design that match the knee pads.
Duke Andrews: Y’all think that the Epitome of Perfection is just some tagline. Y’all forget it’s a way of life. It isn’t just some stupid bullshit catch phrase to get a pop. It isn’t that phrase used to sell shirts. It’s a fucking mindset that I’ve gone away from. I’ve settled into the fact that I’m on the back end of my career and maybe I’ve been able to coast a bit. But that shit stops here.
Duke grabbed the black athletic tape that was sitting at his side. Slowly he wraps the tape around his thumb before wrapping his palm and wrist.
Duke Andrews: “I have sat back long enough, allowed the Busch league rejects get one over far too often to be acceptable. I’ve seen the shit on twitter. I’ve seen the cocky pissants like Alejandro walk around like he’s the second coming of Jesus himself. And tonight, that comes to an end. Tonight, I begin the resurrection of my time in Five Lakes. Tonight, the Great Lakes Son comes back to his roots. Tonight, Duke Andrews makes good on his promise when he signed his contract. Every soul in this locker room is officially on notice. Every single human that is employed by Five Lakes is on notice that I will not stop until my name is at the god damn top. And Sean Parker, that means it starts with you.
RINGSIDE
From there we cut back to ringside for a run down of tonight's matches with the commentary team, before a quick pan around the arena shows various signs held in the crowd, such as..
'KORE 4 GENERAL MANAGER!'
and..
'Chris Styles is NOT a pussy'
OPENING BOUT
SINGLES MATCH
Duke Andrews v Sean Parker
Andrews was unsuccessful in his bid to win the TV Title last time out. Although if Myra Rivers hadn’t come out and attacked his friend in Gabe Landry it might be a different story. His opponent Parker had an impressive debut followed by an epic match with Jessi Osborne in White Plains, where he just came up short. Both men were looking to bounce back here in a much anticipated opening bout. Andrews showed his experience early on and read Parker all too well, getting several two counts, and looking every bit the top tier star he’s proved to be in other promotions. But Parker had his moments too, and despite being on the back foot for a large chunk of this fight, he rallied back on several occasions and sprung a surprise with a clever roll up, throwing his weight down to hold on for the three count. Duke wasn’t impressed afterwards, adamant that he got the kick out. Parker extended his hand for him to shake but Andrews slapped it away, not showing any sportsmanship whatsoever, frustrated at losing a match he had mostly been in control of.
Winner: Sean Parker
IN THE RING
Silas Romero came out to the ring. He wasn't due to be booked tonight but unsurprisingly he had a few things to say. He reiterated everything he had said online this week about Colin Moriarty, and that if he hadn't stuck his nose in to last week’s match, everyone here tonight would be watching him become Undisputed Champion in a well deserved rematch. He called out Frank James and demanded another fight with Vanessa, this time for the Title. James appeared on the ramp and said he understood why he was sore. Many people had looked forward to that fight last week, himself included. It was time for Vanessa to defend her belt against a worthy challenger though, so he had made a decision. Before he could continue though Kore Violet appeared on the big screen behind him. She was on a sofa, presumably at home, with Colin Moriarty curled up next to her. She told Silas to stop crying, and insisted that Moriarty was saving 5LW from an awful potential match for the title. Everyone wants to see her and Nessa FINALLY get it on, one on one, without anyone else getting in the way. That’s the match Frank James should be making. Nessa Reckless then appeared on the other half of the screen, her belt slung across her shoulder. She found it flattering that so many people wanted a piece of her. The Reckless Era was truly beginning to take shape. Given the choice she wasn’t sure who she would like to beat more, so she would let Frank James make the decision. James said there was only one way to settle this. Kore and Silas would square off on 2 weeks time, at LIVE! From Rochester. And just to add some spice, Moriarty would be banned from ringside, and Vanessa Reckless would be Special Guest Referee. Vanessa laughed, while everyone else, bar Moriarty, seemed satisfied with the outcome.
LOW CARD
HARDCORE RULES
Spencer Rourke v Sally Lambert
A mouth watering fight between these two deatchmatch specialists didn’t disappoint, as they took turns to put each other through tables and chairs. Lambert bought a goodie bag of weapons including a barbed wire bat, a cheese grater and a pane of glass but Rourke was more interested in using his fists. Nevertheless he put her through the glass, and ran the grater down her back as the blood spilled out across the ring, but he narrowly missed a shot to the head when she later swung the bat at him. It was enough to catch her off balance and he finished the match with his Full Metal Jacket through another table to get the win.
Winner: Spencer Rourke
LOW CARD
NEWCOMER SHOWCASE
ELIMINATION MATCH
Rose Spears v Zara Walker v Blake Belladonna v Mikaela Callaway v Ichabod Thrasher v Indie Legends
The six newcomers made their way, all bar Belladonna making their debut tonight. After losing her first match she didn’t last long here either, succumbing to a Mass Relay (Brazilian/Question Mark Kick) from Thrasher. Spears got a few shots on him from behind thereafter, but she too was sent packing by the ‘Real Rude Dude’ following a Brannigans Law (Double Underhook Flipping Lungblower). With Callaway and Legends duking it out on the otherwise of the ring he turned his attention to Zara Walker. This one didn’t go as easy though and she more than matched him with her the technical prowess. Thrasher was full of confidence now though, and rescued it back with a desperate Arm Trap Cut Throat Crossface he calls Emmure to claim his third elimination. There was to be no more though as he was swiftly doubled teamed by Callaway and Legends, as we got a first glimpse of Mikaela’s Way (Michinoku Driver II) up close, leaving just two in the ring. Legends knew what she was doing though in allowing Callaway to take the glory in eliminating Thrasher, and caught her off guard with The Pinup Girl (Pin Up Strong) to steal the win and secure an impressive debut.
Winner: Indie Legends
Total Eliminations:
Thrasher - 3
Callaway - 1
Legends - 1
BACKSTAGE
Travis Levitt was on his way to the ring when he came across Sean Parker. Levitt said he’d seen what went down earlier and he wasn’t impressed. 5LW was full of assholes like that, with no respect. This place needed more people like him and Parker around. Parker agreed, and wished him well for his match.
MID CARD
SINGLES MATCH
Travis Levitt v Andrew Raynes
The two veterans came face to face but neither flinched before a good back and forth of right hands and power moves. Levitt got the upper hand and hit a series of Suplexes and slams to Raynes back, but the tables turned with a boot to the face. Raynes then started working away on his opponent, focusing on the left knee to the point that Levitt struggled to stand. He'd clearly done his homework butThe Dragon refused to stay down and fought his way back in momentarily, however a clever reversal from Raynes was sealed with a rope assisted pinfall that Levitt couldn’t overpower. The crowd weren’t pleased but Raynes didn’t care. The Toughest Out was back to winning ways and as usual did whatever was necessary to get himself over.
Winner: Andrew Raynes
IN THE RING
Frank James came out to announce more details around the details around the Television Title Gauntlet match. The crowd were excited for this, as he announced the names one by one, a brief image of them appearing on the big screen simultaneously. He added that the running order of this match would be confirmed nearer the time after the draw was made. This was going to be like nothing we’ve ever seen before, as over 20 men and women contest this match one after another, with the Television Title on the line each and every time.
Colin Moriarty
Tiffany Lynne Page
Duke Andrews
Callie Renton
Andrew Raynes
Jack McGrath
Spencer Rourke
Griffin Hawkins
Rose Spears
Blake Belladonna
Zara Walker
Chris Styles
Journeyman Phillips
Sally Lambert
Jessi Osborne
Icabod Thrasher
Tinsley Nolan
Sean Parker
Andrew Garrison
Travis Levitt
Tater
Mikaela Callaway
Kimberley Williams
Special Guest
MID CARD
TAG TEAM MATCH
FREAKSHOW v Gabriel Landry & Marisol Vilaro
A preview of next weeks Tag Title Tournament saw these two sides square off with an opportunity to send an early message to the rest of the field. Landry and Vilaro were cautioned on several occasions for using the ropes illegally to their advantage, but showed promising signs of their ability as a team when made to fight fair. Even so the experience of Freakshow came to the fore as the match wore on and a close encounter was won by a Superkick from Lexi to Vilaro. Vayden played his role to a tee in fending off Landry as he tried to break the pin. Eight teams fight it out next week, with the newcomers setting the bar high with this victory.
Winners: FREAKSHOW
BACKSTAGE
Andrew Raynes was with Tiffany Lynn Page and Duke Andrews. Duke was moaning about his match earlier, and how he clearly beat the count. Page agreed, there was no way a guy like Parker could beat her Duke, questioning the Referees integrity. Travis Levitt then appeared. He didn’t hold back in telling Duke to stop pointing the blame at everyone else. He lost fair and square. He on the other hand was cheated out of a potential victory. He demanded a rematch with Raynes, who immediately squared up to him, but Sean Parker then came around the corner himself. From there things escalated further, with Andrews throwing insults and slander in his direction. Eventually match officials and ring crew came between then to settle it down and ensure they went their separate ways.
UPPER MID CARD
TELEVISION TITLE MATCH
Kimberley Williams (c) v Jack McGrath
Williams pulled off a surprise win last time out to claim Chelsea LeClair’s Title in an exciting triple threat ladder match. Her first defence was an altogether different challenge though, as she came face to face with the enigmatic Jack McGrath. The one eyed monster put the fear of god in many but ‘The Woman Scorned’ wasn’t phased by his presence as they came face to face in the centre of the ring. McGrath put the boot in early, attempting to land a quick, decisive victory. But Williams was tougher than she looks and fought back with venom, dominating for much of the match. However, McGrath managed to rescue this one from the brink with a devastating Fatal Dose (Hangman's neckbreaker) followed up by the Cold Snap (Cradle Piledriver) to capture his first 5LW Championship, in impressive circumstances. There were no celebrations. Zero emotion or adulation in his victory, as he picked up the belt and slung it over his shoulder, exiting to his music as though nothing had happened.
Winner: Jack McGrath (New Television Champion)
HEADLINER
NON-TITLE
Jessi Osborne v Tiffany Lynn Page
North American champion Page would never admit it but was no doubt thankful this encounter wasn’t for her Title, as the self proclaimed World’s Finest put her thought be ringer for a long period of this match. Page was allowed back in by hook or by crook on a few occasions, but Osborne soon pulled things around in her favour with an array of strikes and take-downs. Page though was always one step ahead, at least in her eyes, and rolled out of the ring clutching her shoulder. She waved the match off to the Ref declaring she was unable to continue after an armbar takedown, an ‘illegal and dangerous move’ she claimed. The Referee was having none of it though and counted her out as she picked up her belt and was helped up the ramp by Duke, miraculously recovering by the top to lift the Title high in the air, to Jessi and the fans irritation.
Winner: Jessi Osborne (by count out)
BACKSTAGE
Kimberley Williams was backstage with Emma Harrington, visibly disappointed in her defeat just seven days after she had won the Title. She put on a brave face though and vowed to reclaim the belt at the next opportunity, in two weeks time no less, grateful that she was given the shot in the first place. As far as she was concerned she had unfinished business, and many, many television shows still to reinstate when the time comes!
BACKSTAGE
From one Queen to another, as Jessi Osborne is walking through the backstage area, noticeably frustrated at the outcome of her match tonight, as she passes by AJ Rivera backstage. They stop and talk, as Osborne explains what went down moments earlier. Rivera isn’t surprised, declaring them ‘all fucking pussies.’ Jessi’s going it alone now and is a threat to anyone’s championship, including the one he'll be holding, he says. They give each other a quick fist bump as he continues on his way towards the ring, as Griffin Hawkins is then shown in another area of the building, a split screen hyping their match up, coming next.
MAIN EVENT
OPENWEIGHT TITLE MATCH
Griffin Hawkins (c) v Alejandro Rivera
The two men came face to face, as the belt was raised in the air behind them for everyone to see. The cold stares soon turned into trash talk as they began throwing insults and threats before it quickly evolved into the violent chaos we all expected. Hawkins was under the cosh early on but used his experience to fight back and largely dominate the opening stages of the fight. Rivera was a powerful man though and reversed several whips on the Jukebox Hero to his advantage. As the fight wore on both men gradually fatigued from the high energy and punishment they had put one another through. Rivera looked to be on his way to defeat when Hawkins locked on the Whammy Bar (Fujiwara Armbar) but through gritted teeth he wormed his way to the ropes. It looked like the damage had been done, as the crowd willed on the popular Hawkins to retain his belt, and become the longest reigning champion in Five Lakes history, but Rivera, for all his sins and flaws, was a warrior who wanted, dare we say needed, this victory. Hawkins had him on the ropes, beating him down with signature move after signature move, a series of two counts most people would not overcome, until Papi pulled a Backdrop Driver (Protect Ya Neck), from nowhere. Hawkins was bruised and hurt but seemed to overcome it well, however that kick started the adrenaline rush Rivera needed to get back into this fight, as he followed it up with a hard-hitting clothesline. From there he hit the Dream Shatterer (Diamond Head), but Hawkins too was not ready to give in, kicking out at the dying second. He picked up his rival and Hawkins started fighting back, the crowd going berserk, but just as he looked to be pulling it back in his favour Rivera pulled out a Wrist Clutch Burning Hammer he calls Capital Punishment!! A weary Rivera made the pin as the count as made. Jeers ran out throughout the arena as his music began to play, but he didn't care, emotionally clutching the title he had lost some 111 days ago.
Winner: Alejandro Rivera (New Openweight Champion)
Three months Hawkins has held this title, but it was back in the hands of the man he won it from. The crowd, no matter how much they disliked it, could not take that away from Rivera. He had to dig extremely deep to prize it from Hawkins, who had elevated the belt to new highs in his tenure. Now Rivera would need to do the same, if not more, to get that same credibility. Hawkins pulled himself to his feet to an applause, staring up the entrance ramp at a snarling Rivera as the night came to a close.