XWL High Octane: The Contender's Cup: 6/15/22 — 6/29/22

TWO, THREE, GO!

You always said I'd be a disappointment
That I'd be nothing and I'd probably lose it all (probably lose it all)
You thought that I would trip and fall
But you'll never see me beg or crawl

Can't take it, won't fake it, punch a hole through the wall, try to break it
Can't change it, rearrange it, so I guess that I'll just have to face it
This is bloody knuckles and I'll show you how to play
It's the only way to escape from all the pain, yeah!




We bought a one-way ticket 'cause we're sick of it all
Pack your bags, we're going
At the bottom, but we got no reason to lay low
Like you care anyway, no

Here, take one last breath
You take all you can 'til there's nothing left
We'll never do what you say, no
Until we drop dead, never let go!




[TOM HANNIFAN]
Ladies and gentlemen, you are looking live at the sold out Ball Arena here in gorgeous Denver, Colorado! This...is High Octane!



[TOM HANNIFAN]
I'm Tom Hannifan alongside Pat McAfee and, since High Octane is such a big show, having two announcers wasn't enough, please welcome XWL's Head of Broadcasting, Renee Young back to the booth!

[RENEE YOUNG]
Thanks, you guys! It's been way too long since I was this close to the action and I just...just needed that commentary itch scratched, you know?

[PAT MCAFEE]
And here I was thinkin' you were out here just to make sure that Tom was doing a good job! But like you said, Tom, tonight is sure to be one HELLUVA show! We got some absolute blockbusters from top to bottom up and down this stacked card for you tonight, ladies and gents!



[TOM HANNIFAN]
After a month-long absence, "The Prince" Finn Balor made his return to Octane on the last episode, declaring that he was out to make an example of someone who he feels is "one of the baddest of the bad" on his way back to the top of the mountain. Tonight, he has one of the most dangerous superstars in XWL blocking his path in the sinister "Herald of Doomsday", the menacing Karrion Kross!



[PAT MCAFEE]
In a blood feud that keeps on getting more and more personal, the "Hardcore Icon" Mick Foley is out to defend his family as he battles that livin', stinkin' demon from Hell himself, "The Big Red Machine" Kane inside a fifteen foot high steel cage! But if Kane beats Mick? The sick freak gets to marry Mick Foley's daughter, Noelle!



[RENEE YOUNG]
When it comes to championship gold, the race to prove yourself as a top contender has never been more wide open! Tonight, however, Roman Reigns and Sheamus look to settle their beef and possibly widen the gap between each other on their way to a potential championship opportunity down the line...and what better way to do that than by beating the heck out of each other? This match is sure to get physical in a hurry, guys!



[PAT MCAFEE]
And speaking of getting physical, tonight we're going to have a fatal-four-way match between four incredibly intense, incredibly physical athletes to crown the Number One Contender to the twisted Alexa Bliss and the XWL Women's Championship. Asuka, Bianca Belair, Bayley and Sarah Logan...they definitely haven't minced words when it comes to their feelings on Alexa Bliss, and one of them will walk out tonight with a guaranteed championship opportunity against Alexa at Resurgence in Chi-Town!



[RENEE YOUNG]
Becky Lynch has seemingly snapped since she had the North American Championship slip out of her grasp at Under Pressure. With current incumbent champion Liv Morgan still recuperating in a hospital due to a fireball from Alexa Bliss, XWL Management has ruled that an Interim North American Champion will be crowned tonight as Becky Lynch and Carmella will battle for the gold...and the contract signing for this match is coming up in just a matter of moments!



[TOM HANNIFAN]
After vanquishing a surprise challenge from a very game John Cena, "The Glorious One" Robert Roode who is live in attendance front row tonight will watch as Five men look to stake their claim to the richest prize in our industry in tonight's main event, an Elimination Fatal-Five-Way Match where the last man standing will go on to headline Resurgence for the World Heavyweight Championship!

The camera cuts away from Tom and to the audience where The Longest Reigning World Heavyweight Champion has his feet kicked up on the edge of the barricade, as he proudly wears his title over his shoulder and a huge smirk on his face. The audience around him boos, but he doesn't pay them any mind, last week after his needed week off, he came back refreshed and ready for anything. And what can anyone say about him at this point? He's been on a roll unlike any other, and with an Open Challenge issued, and successfully toppled? The Glorious One has proven every single critic wrong, he IS the best, and tonight he's here to witness five top contenders battle it out until ONE remains, and that one goes on to challenge him at Resurgence.

[RENEE YOUNG]
Speaking of which, there is...and I must say his approach last week was quite refreshing...I've seen quite the buzz on social media that noticed Roode wasn't so...perhaps evasive as he has been. Is that because of Edge's absence or are we seeing a new side to Roode now that he's finally free of the weight of that Open Challenge many years ago? But we've got us a contract to sign. So let's kick things over to the ring, where XWL Management Representative Sonya Deville is waiting on "Big Time Becks" and Carmella to come sign on the dotted line!



[SONYA DEVILLE]
Hello, ladies and gentlemen, welcome to High Octane! We're not going to waste any more time on a show that's packed with so much action...so please allow me to introduce the two women who will be competing in tonight's Interim North American Championship Match. First..."Big Time Becks"...Becky Lynch!



The crowd immediately begins to boo as Becky Lynch's music hits, signaling that it was her time to sign on the dotted line for the match-up later on tonight to crown an Interim North American Champion.




The XWL Universe in Denver seem to be taken aback by the seemingly somber aura surrounding Becky Lynch as she slowly saunters her way to the ramp, slump-shouldered and eyes hidden behind dark sunglasses.

[TOM HANNIFAN]
I-uh...I don't even know what to say, guys...



[PAT MCAFEE]
Big Time Becks take a red-eye over to The Strip or somethin' last night? Becks is lookin' like I did after I lost my NBA Finals parlay on DraftKings.

[RENEE YOUNG]
Did you bet on Draymond actually scoring four points?

[PAT MCAFEE]
...I don't wanna' talk about it.

Becky slowly drags herself to the ring, Paige conspicuous by her absence as the self-proclaimed North American Champion places the gold onto the conference table, slumping into the office chair.



[RENEE YOUNG]
You've gotta' wonder what's going through the mind of Becky Lynch right now.

[TOM HANNIFAN]
Probably trying to find any way she can to escape tonight as Interim North American Champion.

[PAT MCAFEE]
Seems like the thought that she might not be going home with the gold is living in Becky's head rent-free.

[RENEE YOUNG]
Yeah, I'm with you there, Pat...looks like the fact that Carmella nearly kicked her head off on the last episode of Octane has Becky's confidence shaken.




[TOM HANNIFAN]
That lack in confidence may just wind up costing Becky tonight...



[SONYA DEVILLE]
And now, introducing her opponent for later tonight...Carmella!



As Carmella's music hits, she also receives a fair amount of boos, but more cheers than Becky had received. However, after a few moments, Carmella has yet to come through the curtain at the top of the ramp.




[SONYA DEVILLE]
Ahem...please welcome...Caaaaaaaarmella!



Carmella's music plays once again...however, once again, there's no sign of Carmella. As Sonya begins to glare at the ramp, however, signs of life appear on the titantron...as Carmella is shown sitting backstage in a lavish chair of her own.

[SONYA DEVILLE]
Carmella, what the hell are you doing!?



\$/\$/ Carmella \$/\$/
Well one of us has to protect your investment in tonight...and considering you thought I'd join you in that ring when Becky's reeking of desperation even more than usual...so much so that I smell it all the way back here...I guess it's going to have to be me.

Much like last week she waves her hand in front of her nose before letting out a chuckle before running her fingers through her hair.



\$/\$/ Carmella \$/\$/
Clearly "Big Time Becks" is BIG TIME nervous about our upcoming match tonight, and why wouldn't she be? You all saw what I did to that "monster" Kharma...everyone's tough until they get kicked in the face, or in her case...the face, and then the back of the head...but see that's not what anyone expected, is it? You thought I'd get thrown around and SQUASHED...but I'm way too pretty, and way TOO smart for that. Just like I'm way too smart to risk my Championship opportunity tonight by allowing Little Miss Desperation the opportunity to ambush me out there. But like a true professional I am here, live...via satellite ready to bring the beauty and grace of a FUTURE Champion...considering my opponent...certainly hasn't.

Sonya both can't...and CAN believe Carmella's doing this...she looks to Becky then lets out a sigh.

[SONYA DEVILLE]
Fair enough, but how are you supposed to sign the contract if you're all the way back there?



\$/\$/ Carmella \$/\$/
You're a woman in power and I have to explain the concept of an "errand boy" to you? Don't worry, Sonya as soon as Becky seals her fate and signs away any hope of ACTUALLY carrying that North American Championship as more than a common crook...that contract will be hand-delivered to me right here and I'll sign the death warrant of this little "pretend" Champion thing she has going on.

[SONYA DEVILLE]
Very well, then. Becky Lynch, if you could please sign the contract.



Becky Lynch, however, sits with a scowl on her face, unmoving. Blankly glaring down at the contract placed in front of her as Sonya pinches the bridge of her nose in agitation at having to be the one to soothe both of these uncontrollable egos.

[SONYA DEVILLE]
Becky Lynch, could you please...sign the contract.




[SONYA DEVILLE]
Becky, just sign the damn contract so we can get this ov—



[BECKY LYNCH]
I'll sign your stupid lil' contract whenever the hell I damn well please!



[BECKY LYNCH]
This...is absolute bullshit.



[BECKY LYNCH]
I was giving everything I had to this company when none of these people were allowed in the building, when everyone in this company had long checked out, I, foolishly, was busting my ass every single week to keep this company from burning to the goddamn ground. And how am I repaid for this? With nothing. Not a goddamn thing. The new owner of this company got his two cute lil' blondes as champion and is putting another talentless blonde bimbo in my path to becoming champion...hell, are we sure Vince didn't buy the company back from that useless cripple Edge and that absolute plank of a wife of his?

[SONYA DEVILLE]
Becky, could you just—



[BECKY LYNCH]
Shut the hell up, bozo, I'm not finished, not by a long shot.



[BECKY LYNCH]
I sat and watched as all these absolute hacks, all these talentless bimbos like that dipshit sitting up there on her fancy lil' via satellite bullshit were handed, HANDED opportunity after opportunity on a silver freaking platter, while I had to put someone through a car window and take this damn championship for the idiotic suits to wake up and realize exactly what's happening around here. To wake up and realize that I deserved my goddamn rematch...the one that was ripped out of my hands when the people in charge thought, "Oh, let's just give everybody a clean slate, wins and losses don't matter!"



[BECKY LYNCH]
This business is built on wins and losses, that's competition. And because some of these lil' crybabies in the back don't want to play hardball when push comes to shove, all of us have to placate their fragile little feelings? I don't give a damn about hurting feelings. I don't get paid to sit in a circle and play freaking kumbaya. And it took me a long time to realize that...I get paid to hurt people...people like that cheap Maryse wannabe sitting up there more concerned about her concealer and making sure her tits are out than the fact that I'm about to beat the living hell out of her tonight.



[BECKY LYNCH]
Carmella, listen up, babygirl. You have no idea what you've gotten yourself into. Because I promise you, you may be all pretty on the outside, but just being pretty ain't going to cut it when I yank your arm off and beat you with it until you're just as ugly on the outside as you are on the inside.



[BECKY LYNCH]
I have made a career out of being the best professional wrestler regardless of gender in this company. That's why I called myself The Man. It wasn't about some gender politics bullshit you hear on the news channels, it was about being in the top spot, being the main event spot, being the franchise player...and I've broken down the barriers and kicked down the doors that you had to step over in your designer Louboutins.



[BECKY LYNCH]
You should be coming down to this ring right now and thanking me for the opportunity that you've received off of my hard work. You should be on your knees and kissing my goddamn boots, because lord knows you sure as hell couldn't lace 'em, and lord knows the best work you do is on your damn knees. But don't worry that pretty lil' head, sweetheart, we all know you're greener than goose shite, so I'll carry this segment just like I've been carrying this goddamn division on these boulder shoulders since the day I came back.



[BECKY LYNCH]
I mean, after all...you had a week to come up with some real zingers, some real A+ material, and that's the best you could do? Saying I reek of desperation? No, no, babygirl, I reek of hard work, determination, and talent, three things you've never known a goddamn thing about. You picked up a ladder, set it up and you grabbed a briefcase off a hook two times, congratulations. I'm sure your damn participation trophy is in the post. So you sit back there in your lil' chair in your lil' Fashion Nova outfit and your lil' Louboutins and cry into your overpriced lattes and your Louis Vuitton handbag like a good lil' failed wannabe model, and I'll just sit here with a championship that you don't even come close to deserving an opportunity for and I'll just be the hottest damn thing in the entire freaking industry.



[BECKY LYNCH]
You've somehow managed to believe in the smoke you've been blowing up your own arse, you've had your head so far up your own arse for so long that you're starting to enjoy the smell, and you've managed to put into your tiny lil' mind some delusions of grandeur that you have what it takes to be a champion. Babygirl, you don't even have what it takes to shine this freaking title, let alone hold it. Your entire personality, your entire schtick is based on the concept that "sex sells", but you couldn't even make it as a freaking cheerleader, and that's the biggest "sex sells" occupation in goddamn sports. An overhyped, overprivileged, green trainee wannabe like you should do what they have the trainees do in the dojos in Japan: You should be on your hands and knees wiping my sweat off the mats after I show you how it's done...and then you should be carrying my goddamn bags from show to show, and icing my back after I carry this division on it.



[BECKY LYNCH]
You wrote a check with your big fat mouth that your arse will never, ever be able to cash. And I'll prove it when I break your goddamn arm and I leave you blubbering like a baby in the middle of this ring...if you're not too much of a goddamn coward to actually come down to this ring and fight me, since you're too much of a goddamn coward to sit here across this table from me and try and defend yourself.



[BECKY LYNCH]
I'm going to enjoy ending your career tonight...before it ever even begins.



At long last, after a scathing, malicious verbal assault on Carmella's entire being, "Big Time Becks" tosses the microphone down, grabbing the pen and signing the dotted line for the Interim North American Championship match later on in the evening. As the focus shifts away from Becky and to the tron where Carmella sits far away backstage, mulling over the very targeted and harsh shots Becky fired her way.



[SONYA DEVILLE]
Uh....well, Becky has signed the contract and thus now all that's left is for you Carmella to sign it so...

A gentlemen steps into the ring asking for the contract to which Sonya hands it over, this man then thanks her and proceeds to leave the ring heading up the ramp, all while Carmella has taken a page out of Becky's book and not said a single word. This silence remains as he steps through the curtain and is out of sight, which is when the focus fully shifts to the tron and Carmella appears to be on the verge of breaking her silence.



\$/\$/ Carmella \$/\$/
Oh, I'm sorry...were you finished? I kind of zoned out the second you went down the cliche route of resorting to my hair color, my breasts, and anything else surface level...meanwhile here you are standing out like a nice glass of V8 with your red hair...which, definitely wasn't natural either, was it? Then again neither is this "bravado" of yours, no Becky is a pun-cracking underdog that never can quite seem to topple the big dogs, can she? If anyone's imitation right here, it's you, Rebecca.



\$/\$/ Carmella \$/\$/
Pretending to be a "badass" all of a sudden, because HER way didn't work...so now she's just delving into bits and pieces of the greats to present herself as this original "trailblazer" when she's blazed no trails, and accomplished absolutely nothing. But of course, you're "BIG TIME" right? Why exactly? Because you say you are? Because you pay Paige to stroke your ego and tell the world you are because for god knows what reason you've been too afraid to open your mouth until now? Glad you finally worked up enough nerve to speak for yourself, it's just a shame there wasn't an ounce of originality anywhere to be found. Comparing me to a former Champion in Maryse isn't the insult you think it is...meanwhile I could list off a number of names that you remind me of, and guess what Becks? They have one thing in common with you, they bought into their own act too much, and never accomplished a damn thing close to what they believed they were.




\$/\$/ Carmella \$/\$/
You called yourself "The Man" to be special, and EVEN THAT didn't work. You didn't become this massive Champion, you became an afterthought like you always do, like you will after I kick your teeth down your throat and rub that North American Championship in your face!



\$/\$/ Carmella \$/\$/
I've been in that ring competing each and every week since Under Pressure, what have YOU been doing? Running around here doing anything BUT! Oh but I'M the one that was "handed" everything? Not the one that literally STOLE a title and started acting like that made her one? ME? I'M THE ONE HANDED EVERYTHING?!

The Woman who hopes to leave tonight with The North American Championship screams out that last sentence, beyond frustrated at the nerve Becky has to try and verbally dress her own as if she knows her, or even has the right to judge her. She's glaring at the camera as she replays everything Becky said to her, and when she's about to fire off another round of her own, suddenly a knock is heard at the door and the gentlemen hands the contract to her. She looks at it for a moment, grabbing the pen off the folder, then taps it against the paper for a second.



\$/\$/ Carmella \$/\$/
You think you're so special...but you're as worthless as that title is right now. Nothing more than a prop with no meaning, no credibility. You're a prop for Paige to live out her career because she can't do it herself anymore...you don't matter, and that's what makes you be so loud and "proud." The loudest one in the room typically is the most insecure...because if they're not so brash, or so in your face...no one will pay attention to them, and that's the difference between us, Becky. It's not our backgrounds, or what we choose to focus our energies on. No, it's as simple as ONE thing, you have to beg for everyone to pay attention to you...meanwhile me? I'm ALWAYS the center of attention because I know my worth, I know who the hell I am, and I'm DAMN proud of it! Yes, I'm blonde, yes as Nattie would say I am very built in the front, YES I am an attractive woman that takes advantage of all life has to offer me...but I bust my ass each and every single day to be WORTHY of it!



\$/\$/ Carmella \$/\$/
You'd think comments like yours would have ceased and desisted by now, I've been in this business for almost eight years...eight years that I have dedicated myself to being the best, and if I'm not? Working harder than anyone else in the room to get there! That's why unlike you the past month, I've been competing with the best, to be ready for an opportunity like this. I'm hungry, and tonight? I'll be eating a steak dinner as that North American Championship sits on my lap, and I replay the end of the match over and over to see how lost and sad you look when this reality you created for yourself? Turns out to be another "BIG TIME" failure!

The second-generation competitor quickly signs her signature on the contract, then tosses it at the camera and storms off. Clearly, things went BEYOND the line in this contract signing, and what was a match announced literally just a week ago, now has a lot of fire and passion behind it that has us wondering just who will walk out tonight as The Interim North American Champion? With the empty seat in frame, the feed cuts to our first official commercial break of the evening.

After that big contract signing between Carmella and Becky lynch, we're taken backstage where another member of the female roster, possibly the strongest of them all, Bianca Belair  is minding her own business, preparing for her match later tonight when...

[???]
Biancaaaa! Biancaaa!!

The easily recognizable screeching voice of Bayley send an instant shiver down Biancas spine, she is the last person she wants to see after what happened last week, but it seems like today she has no choice, she turns around to see an uncharacteristically cheerful and energetic Bayley, she's clutching something to her chest,  but we cant quite make out what it is..

[Bayley]
How crazy is that? I was just thinking to myself how much I wanted to run into my good friend Bianca, and then here you are, right in front of me. That's gotta be fate.

Bianca just glares at Bayley wondering what she's up to, she's keeping her guard up but answers Bayley anyways.


Bianca Belair
Girl, what are you talking about? You and I? We are NOT friends, hell, I don't even like you, and didn't you even talk about me behind my back the other week?

Bayley goes to speak but Bianca cuts her off, she continues to speak.


Bianca Belair
I actually remember it pretty clearly, you made fun of the fact I use my hair as a weapon! That's right, you know, that was actually kinda funny I won't lie.

Bianca smiles and laughs slightly, Bayley nervously laughs a long until Bianca loses her smile and glares at Bayley again.


Bianca Belair
So, there better be a good reason you decided to come interrupt my pre-match workout or else your "fate" will be getting lashed by my hair.

...

[Bayley]
Ahahaha good one, see this is why you and I could be such good friends, we're both hilarious people, and we know how to crack a joke without wanting to murder each other, what more could you possibly need in a friend huh?

Bayley intentionally loosens the tight grip on the document in her arms to reveal it so that Bianca wouldn't be able to help but notice it, she gives Bayley a quizzed look, who feigns ignorance pretending not to know what she's looking at, until her eureka moment when she realizes

[Bayley]
Oh, this thing... Well, I did just come over to say hi but since we're friends now...

She doesn't give Bianca a moment to respond to that last statement, she simply grabs hold of the document, attached to the clipboard and passes it over to Bianca, who reluctantly takes it from her.

[Bayley]
Just take a quick read of that, it isn't too long, so even you should have no problem with it.

Bianca lets that blatant insult goes over her head as she reads the document, and Bayleys acting talents are put to use.

[Bayley]
I just respect all of the women who work with us too much to allow any of them to go through the same indescribable pain that we went through you know? Somebody has to take a stand, we can't allow this sort of behavior to become the norm in this industry, it needs to be stamped out now before it goes too far before one of us loses our eyesight...

Bianca takes the paper and reads, looking unimpressed she looks back up at Bayley


Bianca Belair
This is a petition to ban Asuka's poison mist? Really?

Bayley nods and reminds Bianca of what happened last week in their match, with Asuka accidentally blinding Bianca leading to her being pinned by Shayna Baszler. Bianca purses her lips and snatches the pen from Bayley.


Bianca Belair
So if I sign this, you'll leave me alone?

Bayley nods her head rapidly as Bianca rolls her eyes.

Bianca Belair
Fine, I'm only signing this because I'm still upset at Asuka. I know this isn't going to go anywhere, so good luck getting any others to sign this mess.

Bianca clicks the pen and signs her name on the paper, and the second the ink is dry, Bayley shocks her by trapping her in a huge bear hug, her arms clamped tightly around her.

[Bayley]
Thank you, thank you, thank you so much!!

Not knowing how to react, Bianca glances down at the hugger clamped around her and awkwardly pats her on the head.

[Bayley]
I just knew you'd sign it, I just knew it!

Bayley lets Bianca out of her grasp.

[Bayley]
You'll see, I'm going to get every single woman on this roster to sign this, I'll even get some of the men to sign it, and then neither of us will have to worry about catching a face full of Asuka's bad breath tonight or ever again for that matter.

Bayley notices something in the distance and with lightning reflexes she snatches the clipboard and pen back from Bianca.

[Bayley]
Watch this

.....

Bayley quickly walks away from Bianca and towards her next 'victim', who just so happens to be one of the men competing in the Elimination 5way match later tonight.

[Bayley]
OH HEY! HEY!!

Bayley yells for Theory's attention and we can still clearly see Bianca still looking on from the distance, preparing to  enjoy seeing Bayley making a show of herself.

[Austin Theory]
Oh hey Bayley.

[Bayley]
I'm sorry about my reaction there it's just I've been hoping to run into you for a while..

[Austin Theory]
You have? I honestly didn't even think I registered on your radar.

[Bayley]
What? Don't be silly, of course you do! I just love watching your matches, you look so good out there.

Bayley gives him a menacing look, before bringing her index finger over his abs and gently stroking. Theory smiles at her.

[Austin Theory]
Well thanks Bayley, I appreciate that and all, but I've really gotta go, so could you just uhh...

Theory motions to the finger on his torso with his eyes, Bayley gets the hint and lets go, looking a bit deflated that Theory's not responding to her advances, she's about to give up until she spots Bianca still in the distance, but now laughing at her expense. Determined not to prove her right, she goes into full fan girl mode.

[Bayley]
Of course, you've probably got loads to do, but just please do me one favour before you go?

Theory considers her request and against his better nature, nods his head in response.

[Bayley]
It's just... I'M YOUR BIGGEST FAN!!

Theory looks so confused...

[Bayley]
I make sure to watch all your matches, I even buy all your merch on XWL.com! It would just mean the absolute world to me if I could get your signature.

[Austin Theory]
Uhhh really?

[Bayley]
Yes, really! Look, I just so happen to have some paper and a pen, would you please just make me the happiest woman here tonight and sign it for me? It would mean everything to me.

Bayley puts on her best sad puppy face and pouts her lips, her head tilted to the right.

[Austin Theory]
Well I guess if it would mean that much to you then sure, I'll sign it.

Bayley excitedly hands the clipboard and pen over to Theory, he doesn't bother reading it, but does notice something.

[Austin Theory]
Wait, why is Bianca's name on it?

The cogs start turning in Bayley's mind as she tries to come up with an excuse.

[Bayley]
Oh that? Well see, you're my favourite Male superstar, but Bianca's my favourite female superstar. I love you both equally.

[Austin Theory]
That's a little weird, aren't you two fighting each other tonight?..

[Bayley]
Hey all's fair in love and war, will you just sign the damn paper already.

Theory contemplates it, what a weird request, but he's got places to be and people to see, so he signs his name just underneath Bianca's, then hands the clipboard back to Bayley.

[Austin Theory]
It's pretty cool that you can be such a big fan of someone you're competing against.

[Bayley]
Oh yeah that's just me, I'm selfless like that.

He smiles and then heads off in the opposite direction to Bayley, who quickly and proudly heads back to the awaiting Bianca.

[Bayley]
SEE? I told you I could get anyone to sign this. But uh, who was that guy?

Bianca does seem slightly impressed, but she can't help but break into laughter after watching that fiasco. Bayley tries to keep a serious face, but she follows suit and the last thing we see before the show cuts to its first commercial break is the sight of two women who will go to war later on tonight, temporarily getting along with laughter.

With the gentle sounds of a lullaby, we can't quite place playing in the background, High Octane's broadcast comes back to the sight of terror. Well, not terror at this moment, though her darkened eyes, and clear white pupils, do unnerve us. But the woman that's terrorized The Women's Division since the events of Warzone when she made her shocking return as...well, THIS. Influenced by, HIM...Alexa Bliss and the things she's done since then are truly unexplainable. Throwing fireballs, warping, transforming, and...the pain she's brought is unlike anything this division perhaps has ever felt. Because while Sister April nearly crushed the life out of this division, that was without the "friendship" as Alexa calls it of Bray Wyatt. She left the learning tree long before his influence completely took over, whereas Alexa keeps benefiting from her pal each and every week, growing dare we say stronger and stronger.



She sits on the swingset of her "Playground" which really is just her own version of The Firefly Funhouse, and what swings beside her is The Women's Championship she took from Sasha Banks in one of the most brutal victories we've ever seen. As the camera fixates fully on her face, suddenly her neutral but friendly smile...becomes "twisted."



As the soft instrumental continues to play, we can feel the hair standing up on the back of our neck, we can't help but almost feel the need to look over our shoulder for fear that someone might be there. It's so bizarre that a woman barely over five feet can bring about this feeling...but that's what makes Alexa so dangerous. You'd never expect any of this from her, especially if you knew who she was before she "let him in." But now, is there anything she ISN'T capable of? Especially now that Bray Wyatt has returned and she's once again strengthened by the power of "friendship?" After what felt like entirely too long, she tilts her head to the side as her name appears on the screen, written in the very font that's been seen on The Firefly Funhouse, and breaks through the silence with a giggle.



PLAY{Alexa Bliss}PAIN
You know, when I was a little girl...the moral of every story was that "evil" was...well, bad.

Imagine that, and we wonder why that's a common theme...maybe because evil leads to things like what we've seen Alexa do to the fellow Women in the division? But as she starts talking, it sounds so...casual.

PLAY{Alexa Bliss}PAIN
But I think it just gets a bad rap. After all, people are quick judge that which they don't understand...heck, I used to be just like them.

As her feet push forward then pull backward, continuing the momentum of her swinging, her head tilts to the other side until she stops herself and stares back at us.



PLAY{Alexa Bliss}PAIN
Take The Undertaker for instance...you know, for no particular reason...

The Women's Champion leans forward, blatantly winking in front of the camera before breaking out into devious laughter. After all, we saw Bray Wyatt unveil The Urn during The Firefly Funhouse last week, so it's no secret The Undertaker is in HIS crosshairs. Eventually, she settles down and resumes her address to the camera.



PLAY{Alexa Bliss}PAIN
Going after people's souls just felt so...far...I mean is it REALLY that serious? Not to mention, this whole rising up from the dead thing...even calling himself "the deadman." Like, honestly...who even believes in that kind of stuff? But the thing is, once you...are approached by it...it's like, you're a moth to a flame...you just CAN'T get enough of it!

Given how off the deep end Alexa's gone, it's evident that as she describes that "feeling" it's not of a rational and sound place, it's from a warped perception created by the reality in her head. She's found strength because of HIM, where previously she had grown weak, as Bray described Alexa weeks ago, she IS the perfect one for this role because when you're at the end of your rope, ANYTHING that will save you from that pain IS the best feeling in the whole world. It's hard to say if Alexa's still in there somewhere, but while she's physically present, mentally she's gone. And without that stability, she's been unstoppable.



PLAY{Alexa Bliss}PAIN
You should really give it a try....go on, just let him in...I did, and THIS is my new reality. I'm The Women's Champion, I've claimed my vengeance...and the pain is gone. Best of all, I have the bestest buddy in the whole wide world by my side! He'll never leave me...he'll never betray my trust, he'll never put his needs above my own, he'll never make me feel so safe and secure....and then leave me to the rot like the last one...

Of course Alexa's downfall was in part due to her best friend Kairi Sane defeating her for The North American Championship after Alexa had defended their co-held title on the grandest stage of them all in a gauntlet match. She beat three challengers on her own, and then...found out that she had one last opponent, her best friend. It was impossible for her to defeat a fourth opponent, especially one she never expected to have...so she lost, and that loss sent Alexa spiraling down a path of failure. Losing to Sarah Logan the next week, not even being booked the next, and when she did finally get called to appear, it was to host her talk show A Moment Of Bliss to promote Sasha Bank the then Women's Champion. A Champion that never strayed away from telling the world how inferior Alexa was to her, despite them having relatively no history as competitors. Meanwhile, Kairi was champion and all anyone ever wanted to talk to her about was how obviously NOT okay Alexa was. We could see it, but we never expected that to lead her into the arms of The Fiend.



PLAY{Alexa Bliss}PAIN
You could say I'm rotten to the core for the things that I've done...but all I've done is treat the world how it treated me. Not so fun when the shoe is on the other foot, is it?

She playfully kicks her shoes together as she resumes swinging, staring at The Women's Championship that also swings beside her on a seat of its own.

PLAY{Alexa Bliss}PAIN
But enough about that, tonight is a special occasion and it's one I'm uber excited for! Because four women will compete tonight and the winner? Becomes my new playmate, yay!!

As she lets out a giddy squeal she brings both hands together clapping rather quickly until her swing comes to a halt.



PLAY{Alexa Bliss}PAIN
The question is, WHO will it be? I'd be lying if I said I DIDN'T have my eye on a certain special someone involved...but truthfully I'd be happy with any of them. I mean, Bianca fancies herself as The "EST" of everything, so surely that means she's been the Fun-EST playmate I've had thus far!

Bianca we're sure would not describe what she wants to do as "fun" for Alexa, after all since showing up last month she's made her desire to avenge her fallen friend Sasha Banks after Alexa broke her back and took her title. Bianca is ready to whoop her behind, and snap her back to reality, along with her back...and tonight's match could put her exactly where she wants to be, in a one-on-one match with Alexa.

PLAY{Alexa Bliss}PAIN
Sarah Logan did get away unscathed from our last battle...and we CAN'T exactly let that stand now can we? It's like I said, the crimes of those you associate yourself are yours to carry too, and so too are the consequences of those crimes. I mean, she was friends with Ruby, and...we all saw how her fate ultimately played out. She was a real pain in the neck, well, now SHE'S the one with a whole heap of pain in her neck after I snapped it on the concrete! CRACK! Poor Ru-ru...she had to learn her lesson the hard way, literally!

Alexa starts to cackle with laughter, no ounce of remorse in sight over spiking Ruby's head into the exposed concrete in their match two weeks ago which ultimately left her with a broken neck. While Sarah wasn't much of a factor when Ruby committed the infamous "purge" many years ago... Alexa's been quite vocal that the fact she associated herself with someone like that AFTER they did such a thing...means she's no better than she is. While Sarah no doubt is focused on trying to get back to where she was before Alexa's return. We can't forget that when Alexa returned it was at the expense of Sarah's opportunity at The Women's Championship, and her opportunity later came in the Triple Threat where Alexa destroyed Sasha to win.




PLAY{Alexa Bliss}PAIN
There's also Bayley, who my sources indicate has been on quite the roll as of late. I mean, not quite like myself of course...but she seems fun...you know, a bit arrogant...and maybe a little too on the manipulative side...but hey, birds of a feather, right? It'd be like facing the old me...for her sake let's hope she'd tone down the insults because while our history is a blank slate...the last thing she wants to do is suddenly get on my bad side. That wouldn't be too smart of her...but then again, it's a mistake quite a few have made already. For her sake, let's hope she puts a button on that mouth of hers, you know...before I have to do it myself.

With seriousness in her eyes, she sends a warning that is loud and clear to one of her potential challengers that she hasn't had much if any history with.

PLAY{Alexa Bliss}PAIN
And then, there's Asuka! Gee, she's certainly been itching to play with me, turns out for her there is no tomorrow...only yesterday. Such a pity, so stuck in the past that she's trapped in her own asylum...and she thinks winning this match and becoming my Number One Contender would somehow free her from the shackles of her, well...painful memories. But the thing is, the Alexa Bliss that infamously won a submission match without ever applying enough pressure, enough pain...enough agony...to defeat her back then? She's DEAD!

Asuka was Alexa's first long-standing rival in XWL, and their story was the first example of how a competitor like Alexa would become successful in XWL. She may not have had the skill that Asuka did...but her cunning? Was unmatched. And as she reveals that Alexa is "dead" a coldness fills the air as she stares further into the camera.



PLAY{Alexa Bliss}PAIN
Six feet under, robbed of her fury, rotting away until there's nothing left of her...and this silly billy thinks she's on the precipice of retribution? No, she's knocking at a door that once it opens, and she steps inside? She'll learn REAL fast that Twisted Bliss...is here, and my fury? Far exceeds anything she's ever faced.

Hard to argue with that given her growing list of victims, and the things we've seen her do...somehow it feels like we've yet to see her true power on display and that's perhaps more frightening than anything she's done.

PLAY{Alexa Bliss}PAIN
Nobody...is READY to challenge me for The Women's Championship...no, they might have fooled themselves into believing they are, but do you wanna know who else thought they were ready? Sasha Banks...

Sasha saw this new version of Alexa and expected her to be the same person she looked down on, the same person that wasn't on her level, the same person she defeated and left broken in that ring. But in a cruel reversal of fates, she was the one left broken.

PLAY{Alexa Bliss}PAIN
Oh, and Ruby Riott...or Soho...whatever you call her, she's as broken as the former Champion I took this from.

Alexa's gaze veers to The Women's Championship swinging beside her...



PLAY{Alexa Bliss}PAIN
And whether it's Bianca, Bayley, Asuka, or Sarah? They're next to be left shattered at my feet, changed forever...this division tried to destroy me, and depending on who you ask, they succeeded. And now what's left? Is the consequences of the actions of many. Not a single one of them tried to save me...and as we're quickly learning...no one is going to save them either.



PLAY{Alexa Bliss}PAIN
PAIN, it's what makes the world go round...and like this swing? I am the pendulum of this division that will rip through them one by one.

With the severity of her threat, she stares ahead of her, addressing each and every Woman in the division, whether they're potentially her next challenger or not...her story has been told, and her anguish apparently will soon be felt by all. While most weeks we see the playful side of Alexa masking the "PAIN" that festers within her, this week we're seeing the other side. The side that is possessed by pure evil, and will stop at nothing to make every woman suffer the way that she feels she has. With dead eyes, and a cold expression...she remains staring into the lens of the camera for what feels like an eternity, there are so many layers to Alexa and her quest, and with her and Bray Wyatt together they're prepared to wreak havoc on XWL the likes of which its maybe never seen. But just as the seriousness continued to linger, she breaks through the silence like she broke through Sasha's spine with her mallet at Under Pressure.

PLAY{Alexa Bliss}PAIN
Now doesn't that sound like fun?



No laughter follows, just a smile that is perhaps more twisted than the one we saw in the beginning of this segment. Perhaps that's because the things she's said throughout it have truly been troubling in every possible sense of the word. And her smile has no subtlety of delight like she's had lately...no, it's sinister...it's dark, it's perhaps our true introduction to..."Twisted" Bliss...and with four women vying for the right to challenger her for The Women's Championship tonight? One has to wonder what's going through their minds after watching this? For one woman, they'll be Alexa's next muse, her new "playmate" for the month ahead...and for their sake, they better be ready for an Alexa Bliss that has completely and fully embraced her evil.

[Kayla Braxton]
Good evening and welcome back to a very special edition of Octane, tonight we pave the path towards Resurgence, four strong women will duke it out to be named the no.1 contender to Alexa Bliss’ women’s championship, Becky Lynch and Carmella go one on one to decide the Interim North American Champion whilst Liv Morgan recuperates, and five of XWL’s best will go to war with the aim to earn an opportunity to fight Robert Roode for the World Heavyweight Championship, one of which includes my guest tonight, please welcome Austin Theory!

The camera zooms out, a loud cheer for the young star who looks clearly can barely contain his excitement.

[Austin Theory]
Kayla! Listen, I gotta thank you for having me, it’s so great to see you tonight, did you see how many people are out there, there are so so many people out there, and why wouldn’t there be right, I’m so excited, are you excited, man I’ve got a feeling this is gonna be such a great night, don’t you think?

Austin expectantly waits for a response from Kayla like an overexcited dog, although slightly overwhelmed by his lightning speed dialogue, she responds.

[Kayla Braxton]
Of course, it’s going to be a historic night, and I’m not surprised that you’re excited, you’re 24 years old, just over a month into your professional career, so to have an opportunity like this is nothing short of incredible.

[Austin Theory]
I’m not gonna say it was expected, because it was honestly the furthest thing from expected, yeah I’ve only been here for four weeks, but I must have made some sort of impact in that time? I mean let’s be serious, this roster is stacked with talent, there are so many other men that could have been chosen over me, but for some crazy reason William Regal and Sonya Deville decided to give me that opportunity over them, so they must have seen something in me, I must have done something to show them my worth, and whatever that was, I’m so grateful to them both for looking past all the black clouds and seeing me.

The audience show their support for Theory, chanting his name before Kayla continues.

[Kayla Braxton]
You have been on the receiving end of Lady Luck’s bad side since your debut last month. Falling through that table, becoming a chance attack of a violent superstar, and last week an insane accident when the ropes snapped and left you unconscious, aren’t you worried that this string of bad luck will continue tonight?

Theory stops for a second, running his hand through the front of his hair, clearly deep in thought.

[Austin Theory]
I have to be honest, for a minute there I did think I was jinxed or something, but I have to believe that it was just that, luck, and clearly it’s come to an end tonight, because how could it possibly be unlucky to receive an opportunity of a life time like this?

[???]
I can answer that.

Rey Mysterio walks into the view, and although the audience seem to hate his appearance, Theory looks oddly pleased…


(THIS IS DEFINITELY KAYLA INTERVIEWING SO SHHHH)

[Rey Mysterio]
I know exactly how you feel right now because I’ve been where you’re at right now. You can’t quite believe what’s happening, you’re over the freaking moon, you feel like you’ve won the lottery, but I’m sorry to be the one to break it to you kid, but you haven’t won the lottery. Seth Rollins, Sami Zayn, AJ Styles, Drew Mcinyre, they’ve all earned their names, and you well, you’re…

Rey is about to continue, but…

[Austin Theory]
You can’t stand the fact that even though your talentless hack of a son attacked me from behind, I’m still the one in the spotlight, not him, and it kills you doesn’t…

[Rey Mysterio]
SHUT YOUR MOUTH!

Austin smirks at Rey’s reaction.

[Rey Mysterio]
When I heard what the plans were for tonight, I wasn’t thinking about Dominick. No, for a moment, for just one short moment, I thought about you, I thought about how excited you must be, so as an ‘apology’ for what my son did to you a few weeks ago, I wanted to do you a solid and come over here, let you know that you should dial down the hype because you don’t have a chance in hell tonight.

Theory stifles a laugh, which just further agitates Mysterio.

[Rey Mysterio]
Let me try and explain this to you in a way that even a childlike brain like yours could understand. Let’s take inspiration from what was one of my son’s favourite child authors…. Robert Roode, he’s Willy Wonka, the number one contender spot? That’s the chocolate factory. You’ve been eating so many chocolate bars, it’s been making you sick, but out of sheer dumb luck, you’ve managed to  find a golden ticket to visit the chocolate factory. You can’t hide your excitement, you’re overjoyed, and when you get there and you see that compared to the other four golden ticket winners, well, you just don’t stack up, you refuse to accept it because you’re just as good as they are! But the sad truth is, you simply aren’t, so you enter the factory, your tiny brain can’t comprehend what it’s seeing, you’re overwhelmed by all of the chocolate and candy around you, and you can’t wait to see the other rooms, but unfortunately for you, you’ll never get to see them, your self indulgence causes you to fall into the chocolate river, and although you try, and you try, you can’t stop yourself from going under, suffocating on all the chocolatey goodness.

Rey seems pleased with himself, Theory still smirking, Kayla looking incredibly confused.

…
…
The silence gets a little awkward now, when Austin finally breaks the tension.

[Austin Theory]
Are you high?

*laughs*

[Austin Theory]
That’s gotta be the worst comparison I’ve ever heard, I’m actually embarrassed for you, and this is coming from the guy who was caught in the act by Sonya Deville... Whatever it was you were tryna do here, whether you wanted to ruin my excitement, place some doubts in my mind, or if you were in some warped way hoping I’d get scared and give up my opportunity so your little Dom Dom could scoop it up in my place, you can take my word for it, you failed. In fact, you’ve actually done the opposite. I know I’m the underdog in this match, it doesn’t take a genius to work that out. All the other men have decorated careers and I’m at the beginning of mine, but when I was a kid, my father didn’t read me bedtime stories, instead he would sit down with me and we’d watch wrestling, and back then my idol, a certain unbroken, unsalted masked legend taught me that being the underdog can be an advantage, you just have to make it one.

Theory turns his attention back to Kayla.

[Austin Theory]
So thanks for having me Kayla, but Rey here is right about one thing, the odds are against me tonight, and I need to spend every last second preparing to make sure I’m ready for this, because no matter what happens, this match is going to be the defining moment of my career, and I can’t understate that.  Win or lose, tonight will always be my night.

Austin flashes a cheeky smile and walks off, leaving a pleased Kayla Braxton stood next to an irate Mysterio, who looks like he could boil over at any point, she isn’t taking the risk and quickly follows behind Theory, leaving Rey to stew in his anger.

The camera’s are fully zoomed in on a mirror, we can’t really see anything other than the reflection of someone’s arm, but as the camera zooms out, it becomes clear that it’s none other than the woman who has the opportunity to become the interim North American Champion tonight, the beautiful Carmella. Usually when she’s staring into a mirror, she’s either fixing her make up or admiring her god given looks, but today it’s almost like she’s staring straight through the mirror, so intensely focused that she doesn’t even notice what the rest of us see approaching her through the reflection.

[Bayley]
Carmella!

Her focus broken, she sighs and turns to face Bayley.

[Bayley]
I wasn’t interrupting anything was I? I just saw you sitting here and I had to come over and congratulate you on your victory later tonight.

Carmella's a bit puzzled by Bayley's appearance, and she's not exactly in the best of moods given how personal the barbs between her and Becky got, but rather than taking that situation out on Bayley she lets her continue.

[Bayley]
I’ve gotta say, it felt great to watch you tear Becky down like that, I don’t know who the hell she thinks she is just walking in and naming herself champion like that.

At first Carmella's confused by Bayley's presence....but given she's trashing her upcoming opponent, an opponent that got very personal with her to kick the show off? Bayley's speaking Carmella's language right now.

\$/\$/ Carmella \$/\$/
Ugh, right? She wants to say all I did is climb a ladder to win Money in The Bank, TWICE...but all she's done to "carry" that title is steal it and start parading around with it! Like, the nerve of her to think THAT is what makes a champion? She can come for my looks all she wants, but what she's doing right now isn't cute, it's sad...and unfortunately for her, I'm about to show her how a REAL champion is crowned!

[Bayley]
Oh girl, you are so right. She's nothing but a bully, I mean just look at the way she came back here. Between the two of us, in that fatal four way last month, we beat Rhea Ripley down, she was humiliated, defeated, already on her last legs, could Becky have even picked an easier target? There's a reason why she didn't come after one of us you know, because she knew that if she tried, it would have been her with her head through a car window.

Despite Carmella being flustered by how tonight began, she lets out a chuckle at Bayley's remark, again...liking what she's hearing, so why wouldn't she loosen up?

\$/\$/ Carmella \$/\$/
Exactly! All she's proven is that she can pick up the scraps of others, but what has she done herself? NOTHING! I just can't stand people like her, people might think I'm vain, and self-entitled, but at least I own who I am. She just thinks she's some rebel fighting the "machine" when in reality? She's just not good enough! Like take last week for example, when I was competing for the third week in a row, and she was again NOT competing for the third week in a row...I didn't have to cheat to beat Kharma.

Clearly she's hanging her hat on this victory, but to be fair it WAS impressive given how Kharma's size differs from her, and it was Kharma's big return after quite some time, so the fact she was able to pull off a victory IS worth celebrating.

\$/\$/ Carmella \$/\$/
I was cunning, I was brave, and when I took that leg out and kicked her so hard she spun around, and then kicked her again? I showed how a CHAMPION handles things. I could have easily tried to cheat, but at this stage in my career what is cheating going to prove? That I'm not capable of getting the job done myself. But it wouldn't surprise me if thats' exactly what Becky tries to do tonight.

[Bayley]
I wouldn't put it past her, after everything she's done these last few weeks, but I know you won't let her get the better of you, she can try to break the rules or to use them to her advantage, but you've shown everyone here that you're capable of holding your own no matter what anyone throws at you, and that's exactly the type of champion these people deserve, that's the type of champion we as women deserve, not someone who resorts to petty childish tactics once the referee's back is turned. With you as the North American champion, this division will finally have a champion to be proud of

Almost as if she's completely forgotten about last week, when she stood on her 'friend' Bianca's braid to prevent her from being able to kick out last week...

[Bayley]
OH wait, that reminds me. Since we're speaking about bullies and all...

Bayley turns to grab her clipboard, leaving Carmella intrigued by what she has planned.

[Bayley]
I'm sure you probably noticed already, but a few weeks back, I fought Asuka and I had that match won, I was seconds from victory, she could feel it slipping away from her and instead of accepting her loss with grace, she spit some vile poison into my face...

Carmella up until now hasn't shown herself to be the type of person that would be "concerned" for others...but maybe it's the fact that Bayley's been telling her everything she wants to hear that she's in a good mood...and when someone's in a good mood, especially after previously being upset just 5 minutes ago...they tend to be nicer than normal.

\$/\$/ Carmella \$/\$/
Wait, she did what? I had no idea that happened...she just spit poison mist in your face like that? Well surely the referee disqualified her, right?

[Bayley]
You would think so, but..

Immediately Carmella is in disbelief, HOW could she not be disqualified when she spit mist into her opponent's eyes, ARE REFEREES THAT BLIND?

\$/\$/ Carmella \$/\$/
Wait, she wasn't disqualified? Using a weapon is one thing, or pulling the tights, and propping your feet on the ropes...but SPITTING actual poison into the eyes of your competitor? HOW did she not get disqualified? But also, are you okay? I mean you look fine, but I can't imagine the pain that put you through.

Bayley gives her a thankful look, glad that someone finally agrees with her, after the cold response she received from Sonya Deville last week.

[Bayley]
Thanks so much for asking hun, I'm fine this time... But I'm not her only victim, last week, she blew the same vile powder into her TAG TEAM PARTNER's eyes. Poor Bianca was traumatised. Undefeated at the beginning of the night, but she ended it with a big fat loss thanks to Asuka. I actually ran into her earlier and she was still complaining about how much it affected her sight, which is why I've decided enough is enough, somebody needs to stand up and do something about this, but Sonya never listens to me, so I figured she wouldn't be able to ignore the issue anymore if I showed her how much of a problem it really is.

Bayley holds out the clipboard and pen towards her.

[Bayley]
That's why I was hoping you could sign this, we need to make sure there's no opportunity for her to use that toxic tonight or any point in the future for that matter.

Given how Sonya has been quite dismissive of Carmella since their introduction 3 weeks ago, and last week when she tried to avoid giving her this Championship opportunity, Bayley is once again preaching to the choir.

\$/\$/ Carmella \$/\$/
Ugh, don't even get me started on Sonya. You know she had the audacity to ALMOST exclude me from tonight's North American Championship match. AFTER giving Becky a spot simply because she started pretending to be Champion. You'd think she'd realize this is a serious issue. I mean, Alexa's craziness is one thing, hard to stop someone that's apparently possessed by the embodiment of evil...but Asuka? How is SHE above the rules? Because she came from Japan and is some sort of "legend?" there? We've got enough going on in this division without someone else running around here with unchecked power.

Without even a second thought, or moment of hesitation, Carmella takes the pen and signs her signature below Austin Theory's and smiles as she places the pen back down.

\$/\$/ Carmella \$/\$/
Thank you for bringing this awful issue to my attention, if there's anything else I can do to help please let me know. After all, when I become The Interim North American Champion later, who's to say Asuka doesn't come for me next after you win tonight's Fatal Four Way and become Alexa's Number One Contender? You'll have your hands full enough dealing with her and Asuka might try to come for someone like me or anyone else, and we can't let that happen.

[Bayley]
Thank you, I just knew you'd have my back, and you know I'll have yours, if you need anything, even if you just need someone to rough that red haired wannabe up tonight

Bayley winks, but just as she does, she notices Dominik mysterio walking around.

[Bayley]
Hey uh, listen I'm really sorry Mel, but I have to get this thing filled out before my match tonight. Let's catch up after the show yeah?

Bayley doesn't even wait for a response, she just grabs the petition and pen and runs after Dominik.

SOME THINGS NEVER CHANGE

Like this right here. Right now we are right back at it. Me and the big dog looking to go at it, knock each other silly in the ring and see which one of us is the better of the two and we all know who it is. The big god, all bite and nothing much else. Nothing other than talk, nothing other than the same tired old routine we have been hearing and seeing for nearly ten years from him.

Head of the table?

I tell you this fella, back home in Ireland, a lil punk like you would get the book right up your ass and you would be sitting on the floor, lucky enough to get the scraps that fall from the table. Your nothin to me, ya understand me wee man? You ain’t shit at all. You think ya are all that but you ain’t. you don’t even come close.

I came back to XWL for one reason and one reason only, to take back my championship. To cement my legacy and place my name in the history books, once and for all as the grandest champion this company has ever seen and has ever known. You my lil friend are just a small pump in the road for me. You my lil friend are nothing more than a distraction for me, something to waste my time on and let me tell ya, I am done with ya.

I am done with all of this actually. I came here to fight, I came here to take on the best that this company has to offer and what has been thrown my way, nothing other than washed up, not over, shit wrestlers, who have no drive, no passion, no love. You think cause ya got the pretty boy looks, the right family name, the right cousin as well.

To open all the doors for you and to make thing easier for you, please. Your nothing to me. I had all the doors closed right in my face and I didn’t go runnin to no one for any help or handouts. I kicked them down and I have been kicking them down ever since with no end in sight.

That is the difference between me and you. I know what it is like to work. I know what it is like to have nothing at all and fight and claw, every single day to just have something at all, no matter how small or what it might be.

Right now I know how close I am.

Right now I know how close I am to the top, how much further I have to go, one I am through you little dog, I am on a clear path to my destiny, to my purpose, to the one thing that means more to me than anything else. You think this is a wrestling match?

Nah.

This is a fight.

This is a fight between me and you and nothing had changed, you have learned nothing since last time. Only thing I gotta do is hit you that much harder now to make sure when you go down, you stay down for good. Do and say whatever you wanna lil man, the results will be the same. Once again I will knock you down on your ass and stand over you with my foot on your chest. Prove me wrong fella, prove me wrong.

I dare ya!

After what feels like the 500th commercial break tonight, we rejoin Bayley on her mission to gain support for a cause close to her heart, the Asuka’s bad breath prevention act.  It seems she’s been hard at work, as when we last saw her, she only had three signatures, Bianca, Theory and Carmella, but now she’s flicking through page after page of signatures, we can make out some recognisable names like Sami Zayn’s, but the majority are either backstage production staff, or knowing how underhanded she can be, completely made up. But nevertheless, Bayley seems proud with herself as she grins from cheek to cheek, her journey is almost over, as she’s heading for the office of the general managers, but before she gets to the door, she runs into a brick wall… Shayna Baszlr!

Bayley backs up a little to give Shayna some space, not wanting to anger her further than she did last week with her insults, hopefully the fact she assisted in Shayna’s victory last week will have caused her to forget about it.

[Bayley]
Shayna! Hey there!

Bayley smiles and acts as if she’s happy to see Shayna, which couldn’t be further from the truth. The cogs start to turn in her brain, she remembers where she’s going and for what purpose, then she recalls all the issues that Shayna’s had with her target Asuka so far, and she just goes for it.

[Bayley]
I am SO glad I just ran into you, I’ve been looking for you everywhere!

][The Ace Of Spades; Submission Magician][
(丂卄卂ㄚ几卂 乃卂丂乙ㄥ乇尺)
Look.. I get that we were teammates and everything but that doesn’t mean that we have anything in common. A common enemy? That’s as far as that ship sails between you and I..

Shayna stares intently and then rolls her eyes at the clipboard in Bayley’s possession.

][The Ace Of Spades; Submission Magician][
(丂卄卂ㄚ几卂 乃卂丂乙ㄥ乇尺)
So. Is this for your little girl scout troop or something?

[Bayley]
Hahahaha girl scout troop, you're so funny Shayna, you should do stand up. But no, this is a petition for something that benefits all the women on the roster, particularly you.

Shayna seems a little more interested now

[Bayley]
What this is, is a petition, filled with signatures from all the hard working XWL superstars and staff members, all of who are in agreement with me that Asuka is a dangerous menace, and that for everyone's safety, she should not be allowed to blow that toxic green mist anymore.

Hands on her hips, a still grimaced Shayna raises her eyebrows and thinks to herself about how this will come to her advantage against Asuka in the future.

][The Ace Of Spades; Submission Magician][
(丂卄卂ㄚ几卂 乃卂丂乙ㄥ乇尺)
So what you’re saying is.. if I sign this and everyone else does.. I mean that’s an IF they have a brain to begin with. That bitch will no longer be able to cheat? Take away my..

She points to both of them.

][The Ace Of Spades; Submission Magician][
(丂卄卂ㄚ几卂 乃卂丂乙ㄥ乇尺)
OUR opportunities?

Bayley smiles and nods enthusiastically.

[Bayley]
Exactly! She won't get the opportunity to cause me my victory tonight, and she won't be able to stop you from breaking both her arms. It's win-win for everybody! Except Asuka of course. Haha

She playfully nudges Shayna with her elbow.

][The Ace Of Spades; Submission Magician][
(丂卄卂ㄚ几卂 乃卂丂乙ㄥ乇尺)
Don’t do that ever again… but you have a point. I’m not against anything that puts Asuka back down to Earth. Because if you ask me her ego is way bigger than before she was here, and out of control.  Where does she even put that mist anyway?

Baszler looks at Bayley puzzled at the thought of where the mist is stored, then remembers she has a big head, and smirks to herself.

][The Ace Of Spades; Submission Magician][
(丂卄卂ㄚ几卂 乃卂丂乙ㄥ乇尺)
Alright. This isn’t to help you or anything.. have a pen?

Bayley crouches down and pulls the pen out of her boot, cheerfully handing it over to Shayna who snatches it from her grasp. Shayna proceed to sign the petition then shoves the contract into Bayleys chest. Shayna looks at the clipboard and says you should look at it, real closely, she then turns and walks away around the corner, leaving Bayley to check the signature and it says in parentheses (“P.S. I still don’t like you Bayley”).

…...............................
...........................

Having survived her encounter with Shayna, Bayley takes the final step on her journey, knocking on the door of the general manager, she isn’t left waiting long and Sonya comes to the door.

[Sonya Deville]
Bayley, good evening, how can I help you?

Bayley looks defeated and deflated, she was hoping for William Regal, her and Sonya haven’t seen eye to eye lately, will she really listen to her?

[Bayley]
Is William coming back any time soon?

[Sonya Deville]
William?... Oh, you mean Mr. Regal. Unfortunately he’s had to rush away to take care of some business, but I’m here all night, so what can I do for you?

Bayley sighs, it seems like she has no choice. She reluctantly hands over her petition to Sonya, who takes it from her hands and walks over to her desk, taking a seat to look over it.

[Sonya Deville]
I’m sorry Bayley, what is this?

[Bayley]
I thought you watched the show? It’s a list of signatures, I’ve been working hard all night to get everyone to align towards one goal that will help the women’s division to thrive, lessen the amount of injuries we sustain, and take care of a problem superstar all at once.

Sonya studies the petition.

[Sonya Deville]
Ah I see, does Asuka know you’re doing this?

Sonya takes a quick sip from her coffee cup and waits for a response.

[Bayley]
Well no, but this isn’t just about Asuka, it’s about everyone in the…

Before Bayley can finish, she’s stopped in her tracks as Sonya moves to put her coffee cup down, but ‘accidentally’ spills it all over the petition Bayley’s spent hours on. She freezes over, like she’s watching the climatic scene from a horror movie in slow motion.

[Sonya Deville]
Oh Bayley, I’m so sorry, look maybe we can save it.

Sonya grabs the petition and frees it from the clipboard, she starts waving the papers around, some papers are sent flying around the office, the soggy parts simply fall off to the floor.

[Sonya Deville]
Oh.. Seems like that just made it worse huh?

Bayley sees red, she can’t control her temper and she lashes towards Sonya, who quickly steps back.

[Bayley]
You cow! You did that on purpose!

[Sonya Deville]
Watch it Bayley, don’t forget, I’m your boss. If you put a hand on me, I’ll take you out of your contenders match tonight without a second thought.

Bayley grimaces, she restrains herself and pulls back.

[Sonya Deville]
That’s what I thought, oh and watch your back Bayley, you never know who might be behind you.

Helpful advice? Bayley’s confused, she’s just wasted her entire night, all that time she could have spent preparing, all gone to waste thanks to Sonya Deville, so why would she be giving her advice? Bayley rolls her eyes at Deville and turns around…

-----*MIST*

SO That’s what Sonya meant! Asuka, who was stood right behind Bayley has just blown a face full of poison in Bayley’s direction. Screaming in pain and grabbing at her eyes, Bayley runs in the direction of the door, Asuka moves her leg out, causing her to trip and fall, but with the condition she’s currently in, she swallows whatever dignity she has left and stumbles out of the office, trying to find her way to the showers, using the walls for support. All the while, Asuka is stood laughing in the office with an equally amused Sonya.

[Pat McAffee]
Ladies and Gentlemen, Sami Zayn! Coming off an incredible fight last week where he went one on one with Omos and somehow survived the mammoth of a human being!

[Tom Hanafan]
Well, that's one way of putting it. He and Aj Styles definitely faced Omos but the Titan had the last laugh after Sami hit with a chair and made the two run for the hills.

[Pat McAffee]
What are you talking about Tom? The Master Strategist did what he had to do and outsmarted Omos!

[Tom Hanafan]
Right...Anyways Sami is coming out with a mic, let's see what he has to say, shall we?

Sami indeed is coming out mic in hand, he yells "CUT THE MUSIC CUT THE MUSIC" Much to the dismay of the fans, while they may not like Sami....like at all. They love his theme song, the music cuts off as the boos can be heard even louder now. Sami brings the mic to his mouth.



[SAMI ZAYN]
I have something to get off my CHEST!

The fans in the arena boo louder at Sami, making him even angrier.

[SAMI ZAYN]
SHUT UP! I have something I need to say! Last week AJ Styles and I were a part of a horrible conspiracy that threatened our very lives! It's clear the current "General Managers" don't care about their BEST ASSETS in this god-forsaken company!

Sami walks up the steps and enters the ring to a chorus of people telling him exactly how they feel about him. Sami continues his tirade.

[SAMI ZAYN]
They booked me vs that beast TWICE in a two-week period! After I outsmarted him two weeks ago they force me and my new Best Friend to face that monster again! Let me tell you, they're lucky I'm as smart as I am and was able to use my incredible knowledge to avoid injury for me and Aj last week. If either of us got hurt? I'd sue them for EVERYTHING they have! I would've run XWL by the time I was done, but, I talked to them before the match. I went to Mr. Regal and Miss Deville and explained what they did wrong. I explained that they needed to make things up to AJ and me and they did! They could've done better, don't get me wrong, but they didn't do half bad. With that being said, we know tonight I have the chance to EARN the World Heavyweight Championship match I've deserved ever since BEING FORCED to defend it inside an Elimination Chamber.

Sami wipes his face and tries to calm himself a bit, knowing this isn't about the past but to the future!



[SAMI ZAYN]
But that's the past mistakes of a horrible GM, these two are at least trying, I'll give them that, and all honesty? I feel this 5-way match should BE for the Championship! Why do we have to have a contenders match anyways? What has Bobby Roode even done besides complaining about Edge and "How unfair he was" you know what's REALLY unfair??? Making my BEST FRIEND and I share the ring with 3 other people who couldn't even LACE OUR BOOTS!

Sami chuckles to himself and puts his right hand up keeping the mic to his lips as the fans continue to boo the man that has risked his career for them over and over again.

[SAMI ZAYN]
But it's fine, I've had to overcome more than this before and I will again. I came out here to make amends with my friend, I got him into that match last week and I wanted to apologize.

The fans actually seem confused like, what? Sami wants to apologize? Sami never does that, Sami once pushed a small kid into a pool because he was blocking his sun but NOW he wants to apologize?



[SAMI ZAYN]
So everyone, please welcome......MY BEST FRIEND!!! AJAYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYY STYLEEEEESSSSSSS!!!

[Tom Hanafan]
A best friend that gets you into a match with a monster



AJ appears upon the stage and he looks not only pained but rather sheepish too. There's a noticeable limp to his walk as he makes his way down to the ring as Sami Zayn beams happily at him. AJ gingerly tries to step through the ropes and Sami, the nice man that he is sits on the ropes for AJ. AJ shakes his head and rolls his eyes but none the less, steps through the ropes. He's quickly handed a microphone

AJ Styles
Sami, last week didn't exactly go as planned. And the week before that. And the week before that. Week after week has been mishap, after dumb situation, week in and week out and I'm getting just about SICK of it!

AJ looks at Zayn and he looks frustrated, but he also looks like he's holding something back. He sighs heavily and stands speechless for a moment before continuing on

AJ Styles
While we were getting involved in dumb and dumber situations there were speaking making moves. Making statements. Making names for themselves. But but hook or by crook we find ourselves heres. And I can see you're in no mood to waste that opportunity Sami. But neither. Do. I. You're not the only person who would love nothing more than to shut Bobby's giant mouth and Take that title. But I think you need to access the situation

AJ gestures to the ramp, obviously referencing that they aren't the only ones the match

AJ Styles
Three other guys hungry just like we are. Who want to get to the top just like us. Both you and I have not kept our eyes on the prize. And if both of us let ourselves get distracted, we'll both lose, again. And most importantly...Only one of us can win. And while I get that you want it badly, so do I

Sami ponders AJs words for a minute, he nods as he takes out a gift card that reads "Banana Republic" on it. He brings the mic to his mouth.

[SAMI ZAYN]
You're right AJ, eyes on the prize. We don't need any distractions, I had gotten this $100 dollar gift card to Banana Republic for you to make it up to you.

Sami stares at it and shrugs as he throws it into the stands, two heavier set men can be seen fighting over the gift card saying things like "IT'S MINE I NEED NEW JEANS!" "NO IT'S MINE I NEED A NEW SHIRT!" AJ looks a bit sad to not get the card, but Sami snaps him out of it as he continues.

[SAMI ZAYN]
We have to focus, you want to win and I want to win and like you said, there can only be one winner. So AJ, may the best man win.

Sami goes to extend his hand to shake AJs, AJ hesitates slightly then goes in for the shake. When suddenly....

Seth Rollins
Nah nah nah nah WAIT A DAMN MINUTE.

Seth Rollins Storms out onto the entrance ramp mic in hand looking very unhappy.

Seth Rollins
Sami you want to talk about conspiracies? Let talk about the conspiracy against me, Why do I have to keep in a 5 way with you who've I already beaten. Plus Drew McIntyre who couldn't and didn't beat me. I should be facing Bobby Roode for the Title not competing to. I mean look at what I did to you two I pinned both of you and yet you're rewarded with chance to compete for the World Heavy Championship.  Also why is Drew being given this opportunity as well he beat and nobody and stole a victory in a Triple Threat?

Seth Pause for a moment as he walks towards the ring. The look on his show a slight confusion as if doesn't know what to say next. Seth confused look turns to a Bright smile and he begins to laugh.



Seth Rollins
I hope you two enjoyed this little game of charades you are play with each other, Because tonight it's every man for themself. I for one can't wait to see Sami betray you AJ. Ah but never the less it doesn't matter because I SETH FREAKING ROLLINS will once again beat both of you, and Drew. I will then go on to stomp Bobby Roode's head in and claim what is rightfully mine...  

(???)
RIGHTFULLY YOURS????

The XWL Universe pops at the sound of a familiar Scottish accent responding to Seth and catching all three men off guard, that accented voice was none other than "The Scottish Warrior" Drew Mcintyre, the only question now is, where did it come from?



The pop grows louder and within seconds a spotlight from the roof of the arena shines down into the crowd near one of the crowd entrance/exit tunnels where Drew Mcintyre has just made his way through and is now out amidst the XWL Universe with a mic in hand!

(Drew Mcintyre)
Seth good buddy, last time I checked??? Nothing is "rightfully yours" around here. The only thing you can lay claim too Seth? Is consistently being a finalist for the best dressed competition around here. Which hey Seth, if that's what you care about most in this life? Then good on ya brother, for what it's worth I think you look like a flamboyant jackass but to each their own my friend!!! Me on the other hand? I'm here to FIGHT! I'm here to EARN my way back up the ladder in this company rung by rung and you can bet your ARSE I'm not stopping until I reach the top.  

(Drew Mcintyre)
Now Seth, you may have a little amnesia but allow me to refresh your memory, a few weeks ago I caved your head in with a Claymore en route to victory. Now, you can sit there and say "well Drew didn't pin me" to which you'd be correct, I didn't pin you, I pinned Kross, but make no mistake about it Seth, had he not chose to re-enter the ring and attempt to get the jump on me? The referee's hand would've hit the mat three times after I covered your lifeless body and he would've still been raising my hand in victory when all was said and done.

(Drew Mcintyre)
That's all water under the bridge as far as I'm concerned though, I'm looking forwards, not backwards, which is something I'd suggest you do Sami!

(Drew Mcintyre)
That's right, don't think I just forgot about ya down there buddy! Matter of fact? You've made it impossible for anyone to forget you Sami, because you've become the biggest baby in XWL today. Someone like yourself with so much elite in ring talent, talent I absolutely admire and respect might I add, and there you stand now in that ring having thrown it all away. And for what? to sit around and cry about non existent conspiracies against your career? to sit around and whine about GM's not appreciating their "best asset"? Lemme tell ya Sami, if you're the "best asset" this company has? with the attitude you have nowadays? I'd be very worried for the future of this company if I was a shareholder because it'd be in a whole heap of trouble.

(Drew Mcintyre)
Times are tough in this world right now boys, and these people bust their asses in their everyday lives just to earn a living wage, for them to make the decision to put off a bill, or a car payment, or a mortgage payment god forbid just to take their family out for a night out to watch the finest XWL has to offer in action? And a whiny crybaby jackass Sami Zayn is the best we have to offer? Not on my watch...

Drew hops the barricade and enters the ringside area.

(Drew Mcintyre)
I am grateful for every single member of the XWL Universe, especially the ones  here tonight, the ones who sacrificed their hard earned money and made the decision to put something off just to catch their favorite XWL superstars in action. I sympathize with you all and rest assured, I'm gonna do EVERYTHING in my power to give you the level of entertainment you DESERVE and MORE!!!
Personally? I can't think of anything more entertaining right now than caving the ginger snap's head in tonight courtesy of the Claymore!!! WHO'S WITH ME???

The XWL Universe lets out a collective ROAR as they all wanna see some sense knocked into Sami Zayn courtesy of a Claymore Kick TONIGHT!

(Drew Mcintyre)
As for you Mr. Styles, not much to say really pal, an immense resume', a legendary career, limitless talent, nothing but respect for all of it, but AJ?

Drew's demeanor gets a little more serious as he eyes him up from outside the ring.

(Drew Mcintyre)
All of that admiration and respect can quickly be flushed down the toilet if you attempt to play buddy cup with that Canadian Ginger Weasel over there. It's every man for himself tonight, play it straight and we'll have no problems, if the buddy cup adventure with the weasel is in full swing tonight? Then I'll have a Claymore primed and ready with your name on it AJ, and mark my words, it'll be  PHENOMENAL!


[???]
Woah woah woah

All four men look really confused as they hear another voice, all four contenders are in the ring right? So who could possibly have the nerve to interrupt them?



[Austin Theory]
Man I can't believe this, it's like a fantasy, a dream come true. Just look at the four of you, you're all incredible athletes, you've all got decorated careers. Hell, I must be the luckiest fool in this arena tonight because I have the best seat in the house to watch my four childhood heroes duke it out.

Theory walks a few steps down towards the ring, but doesn't go too far as Seth is still at the bottom of the ramp.

[Austin Theory]
I mean that, between the four of you, and maybe a few more select names, you're the reason I'm even here tonight, my inspiration to get into this business. I remember when my grand father first introduced me to wrestling, I've gotta be honest, I had no interest, it was boring, that is until one man changed everything, that man was you AJ. You showed me that wrestling could fun, it could be exciting,  and you set me on a journey that changed my life completely.

AJ smiles in response to Theory's kind words.

[Austin Theory]
Sami, when I first started training, I would watch one of your matches before every session. You do things in that ring that no one else can, it really helped me to watch someone skilfully skate around that ring like you can, I wanted to be just like you, I worked hard to be as good as you.

Zayn isn't sure what to make of this random interruption.




[Austin Theory]
But there was one thing I had that you didn't Sami, my strength, my power, as great as you are in the ring, I couldn't learn how to manhandle my opponents from you... I wasn't as quick as some of the other kids in my class, and I was close to giving up, then Friday Night rolls around, I sit down to watch wrestling with my grandfather as always, and I'm introduced to the Chosen One, DREEEEWWW MCINTYRE! I've gotta be honest Drew, I was in awe of you, you were strong and fast, it was refreshing seeing someone like you there in that ring, about the same age as I am now, it relit the fire in my heart, I spent most of my days in the gym, working on my body, to give myself the same edge that you have.

Drew grins and the crowd cheers both men as Theory walks further down the ramp, and comes face to face with Rollins, who can't wait to hear what praise Theory has for him. Theory places his hand on Rollins' shoulder and takes a deep breath, Seth's anticipation builds, a smile slapped across is face

[Austin Theory]
Sup Seth.

Theory taps Rollins' shoulder and walks straight past him, leaving Rollins fuming.

[Austin Theory]
Yeah, this should be a dream come true for me, wrestling against my childhood heroes, but the thing is, I'm not sure you're the same men I grew up watching, because I don't think any of those men would underestimate their opponents, regardless of age, size, gender or experience.

Theory walks up the steps to the ring and stops by the ropes.



[Austin Theory]
You know, for a moment there, listening to all of you out here acting like I wasn't even part of this match, it kinda hurt. But once the twelve-year-old fanboy me had recovered from his heartbreak, I realized something. Yes, I am the underdog, but that's what gives me the advantage. As you've all proven, not one of you has prepared to face someone like me, you've all turned your backs to an unexpected threat, and just like many of the great heroes, that will be the death of you.

Sami looks entirely confused, here he was once again in the middle of the ring, surrounded by multiple people he didn't invite out here. He looks angrily at everyone out here tonight when his eyes meet a smiling Austin Theory.

[SAMI ZAYN]
I'm sorry, who are you?

Theory chuckles.

[Austin Theory]
That's funny. You know what else is funny? This.

Theory tosses his microphone to the floor and launches himself at Zayn with a kick that sends him tumbling out of the ring to the floor. AJ responds by grabbing one of Theory's shoulders and forcing him to turn around.

[Pat McAffee]
I don't think AJ appreciated that, but it sounds like the audience sure did.

AJ argues with Theory, who seems sick of listening to all four of these men, he moves to strike Styles too, but AJ's ready for him, he ducks Theory's strike and shoves him into the ropes. Then out of nowhere comes Seth Rollins, running straight at the back of AJ, he knocks him into Theory, and both men go flying over the top rope. Seth couldn't be happier with himself, laughing like only he can, but he's forgotten the other man in this match...

But he's quickly reminded as he turns into a huge CLAYMORE kick! Rollins is down, he rolls out of the ring, leaving Drew Mcintyre as the last man standing.


[Tom Hanafan]
Could this be a sign of things to come tonight? All four men are down and out, leaving only the Scottish Warrior standing tall in the ring.

[Pat McAffee]
If it is Tom, I think we're pretty much guaranteed to crown a new champion at Resurgence, this new version of Drew looks unstoppable!

The last image we see before the show moves on, is the man himself, pointing at the Resurgence sign, with a strong look of confidence.

It’s been an incredibly gruelling match so far, every weapon you can think of has been used, every finisher has been utilised, all four women are left feeling exhausted, but the match is not over, we still have to name a contender for Alexa Bliss’ championship one way or another. All four women have dragged themselves to their own corner of the ring, all four seated, their eyes fixed on their opponents.

[Pat Mcaffe]
These four women have given it everything they have, they’ve taken it all here tonight, what will it take to put one of these women away?

[Tom Hannifan]
I’m not sure if any of them know the answer to that question Pat, just look at the image we have in front of us. Four of the strongest, smartest, toughest women in this business, all of them hungry for victory here, but none of them seem to have a clue how to achieve it.

Tom’s words ring true, Bayley and Bianca keeping their eyes on each other from opposite corners. Logan and Asuka staring daggers at one another from the others. All four pull themselves up to their feet with the ropes on their sides, and almost in a unanimous decision, all four women sprint forward, meeting in the middle of the ring. Bianca strikes Logan, Asuka lands a vicious kick across the back of Bayley’s leg, Logan throws a punch at Asuka, Bayley slaps Bianca, and it continues like that, the women exchanging strikes in the middle of the ring, back and forth for nearly a minute until Asuka lands an incredibly powerful kick to the side of Bianca’s head, knocking her down to the ground, and at almost the exact same time, Bayley’s struck with a heavy punch from Logan, also falling down to the ground.

[Pat Mcaffe]
Bianca! Bayley! They look like they’re out Tom.

~~Asuka~~
NOBODY CAN KILL ASUKA!

Seeing her championship opportunity so close, yet so far, something in Asuka’s mind just snaps with a flurry of kicks and strikes at Logan’s expense. They connect so fast, Logan struggles to defend herself from them, but she finds the strength to shove Asuka back, giving her an opportunity to rest against the ropes, which just angers Asuka further, she screams and launches herself onto Logan, wrapping herself around her back, fighting to lock in the Asuka lock. Logan’s not going to let it happen though, she uses all of her power to back Asuka into the corner, slamming her back first into the exposed turnbuckle that Bayley uncovered earlier in the match. Asuka’s body spasms, she’s forced to loosen her grip, and falls off Logan’s back, slumping down in the corner.

[Tom Hannifan]
That had to have hurt, Asuka just had her back driven into exposed steel, but with how tight Asuka had that locked on Logan, she may not have been able to escape any other way.

Logan stumbles as she tries to regain her composure, once she gathers herself together, she turns back to Auska, but before she can even do anything, she feels her own back spasm, as Bianca Belair back to her feet, whips her signature braid across her spine. Logan’s knees buckle behind her, and Belair tosses her aside, the prone Asuka becoming her target. Bianca lifts Asuka up, just as she does, she sees Logan rush at her, knee at the ready. Bianca drops Asuka, but before Logan can reach her, Bayley takes her out with an elbow to the side of her head. Bianca stares dumbfounded at Bayley, stunned that she actually saved her from Logan’s signature finisher..

[Tom Hannifan]
Did I see that right?

[Pat Mcaffe]
I think you did yeah, Bayley just saved Bianca and the match right there.

Bianca and Bayley are so distracted they don’t notice Asuka and Logan getting back to their feet, that is until they’re stood directly in front of them. Logan and Asuka look at each other, Bianca and Bayley look at each other, and with that, this fatal four way instantly turns into a tag team match. Asuka and Bianca lock up, Bayley and Logan lock up. The four women fight for the advantage, Asuka gets the better of Bianca, and Logan gets the better of Bayley. Bianca’s sent to the corner with a whip, whilst Logan lifts Bayley up over her shoulders. Asuka darts toward Bianca and leaps, but she reads Asuka’s mind perfectly and catches her in mid air, before launching her over the top rope to the outside. Whilst that’s going on, Bayley manages to wriggle free from Logan’s grasp and falls down behind her. Logan spins on her heel, and Bayley catches her with a leaping STO, Logan’s down but not out. Bayley lifts her by her tights and throws her to the corner where Bianca Belair is still standing. Belair springs into action and launches Logan over the top rope, and into Asuka who was just getting back to her feet.  

[Pat Mcaffe]
If I wasn’t seeing this with my own two eyes, I wouldn’t believe it. Bianca Belair and Bayley are working like a team, and a good team at that!

Bianca and Bayley are both so pleased with themselves. United they’ve managed to take out both Sarah Logan and Asuka, leaving just the two of them standing in the ring.

[Bayley]
I TOLD YOU!

Bayley’s huge grin accompanies her words, clearly talking about their declaration of friendship they made earlier tonight, or at least in her mind. Bayley holds her arms out, she’s asking Bianca for a hug, and Bianca looks like she’s contemplating it.

[Tom Hannifan]
Don’t do it Bianca, don’t trust her.

[Pat Mcaffe]
Oh Tom, they’re good friends, Bayley just wants a hug. Hug her Bianca!

The crowd chant ‘Hug’ over and over again as Bayley with her arms spread out towards Bianca steps closer to her. Belair shrugs her shoulders, but taken in by the moment, by the audience, by Bayley herself, against her better nature, she meets Bayley in the middle of the ring for a hug.

[Pat Mcaffe]
See? Would you look at that Tom? Two good friends hugging it out in the ring, what a beautiful moment to witness.

With Bianca’s guard completely dropped, Bayley lifts her up off the ground and hits her with a lightning quick Bayley to Bayley!

BOOOOO!!!

[Pat Mcaffe]
NO! NO! BAYLEY WHY?!

[Tom Hannifan]
Is

anyone actually surprised by this?

Bayley’s smile has gone, Bianca’s in shock, and without wasting any time, Bayley grabs a handful of Bianca’s braid and pulls Bianca her to her feet, hunched over, keeping a tight grip of the Braid in her hand, Bayley’s roseplant drives Bianca’s skull into the canvas… cover.

1…

2…

3!!!




Winner:


….



[Tom Hannifan]
It’s a pity it had to end that way, but nevertheless, we’ve got our first no.1 contender, congratulations Bayley!

[Pat Mcaffe]
I doubt there’s anyone here tonight who’s happy about this, but it is what it is, Bayley is heading to resurgence to fight Alexa Bliss for the women’s championship.

Bayley’s victory has just dawned on her, she’s the number one contender. Yes, she might have had to betray a ‘friend’ to get there, but someone like Bayley, when she wants something, she’ll do whatever she has to in order to get it, and she’s not going to waste any time feeling sorry for the people she hurts on her way.

[Bayley]
I TOLD YOU! I TOLD YOU ALL!

Bayley screams into the camera as she celebrates her victory, but then she feels a cold tap on her shoulder, wondering what it could be, she instinctively turns around, only to come face to face with the women’s champion herself, Alexa Bliss!



The shock appearance of her Resurgence opponent sends Bayley staggering backwards, she falls flat on her ass, suddenly her victory celebration doesn’t feel all that victorious as the champ stands over her, looking down, with a sweet smile that hides some sinister intentions.


Having made her appearance felt, Bliss skips to the ropes, leaving the ring as Bayley still sat down in the ring watches her skip away down the ramp, not looking back once. Bayley was on top of the world, and it only took a few seconds to bring her crashing back down, she isn’t happy, she feels embarrassed, slamming down on the canvas with the palms of her hands, she screams at the camera men.



[Bayley]
TURN THOSE DAMN CAMERAS OFF! CUT THE FEED! GO TO COMERCIAL! NOW!


Bayley’s anger filled voice is the last thing we hear before the screens go dark and Octane heads to its next segment of the night.

We are taken to the broadcast table where Pat Mcafee and Tom Hanifan sit waiting to call some more action
Pat Mcafee
"I just received word we are going to be taken backstage where Kayla Braxton is standing by with R-Truth."




Kayla Braxton
" Thank you Pat. Ladies and Gentlemen give it up for my guest tonight R-Truth. Truth whats going on? You don't seem like yourself?"

Kayla extends her arm out and touches Truth's arm as to try and console him. Truth is visibly upset.
R-Truth
"I just left a meeting with Sonya Deville, Kayla, You're not going to believe what she told me. The powers that be are oppressing my life-long friend and partner Little Jimmy. Sonya keeps saying he's imaginary. But i assure you he's very real! Me and Jimmy have been like peanut butter and jelly, tea and sugar, salt and pepper, grape wine and Swiss cheese my whole life. Okay maybe that was a bad example but you get my point. And now Sonya is telling me that if i want a shot at the tag team titles then I'm going to have to find a partner other than Little Jimmy."

Kayla Braxton
" Truth I'm sure you have made some friends other than Little Jimmy in your tenure throughout multiple companies. If not maybe someone you idolized and always wanted to team with?"


Truth's frown is turned upside down and he is smiling maniacally.


R-Truth
"You know what Kayla? You may be on to something."

Truth rushes off camera and we are taken to a commercial break.





when we come back we are taken to the door of co-GM Sonya Deville. R-Truth knocks on the door in an urgent manner and Sonya jerks the door open to investigate what the commotion is.

Sonya Deville
"Truth if this is about Little Jimmy I'm sorry my hands are tied on the situation."

Sonya looks at Truth annoyed and stern.

R-Truth
Sonya i just came to tell you that i just got off the phone with my new partner and he will be here next week and we are going to take the tag team division by storm!!! At this point me and Little Jimmy are still cool but i need that gold dawg!"

Sonya looks surprised and responds with a shake of the head nodding to signify she agrees with Truth's decision.
The camera cuts right back to the entranceway where R-Truth makes his entrance.

As High Octane comes back from an advertisement for XWL's newest action figure releases, we see XWL Management Representative Sonya Deville seated at her desk, hands on top of the desk.

[SONYA DEVILLE]
Well, ladies and gentlemen, what a show we've had so far, and we still have a long way to go. But right now...I want to talk about this.

Sonya reaches down, pulling a black velvet bag from behind the desk. Opening it up, Sonya pulls out its contents: The vacated XWL Intercontinental Championship.

[SONYA DEVILLE]
See, this championship has been vacated for nearly two months now, and Mr. Regal and myself have been wrapping our heads around a way to try and determine a brand new champion...and then we got a phone call from this man.

Sonya points to the individual seated in front of her, the camera panning around to reveal the legendary "Big Sexy" Kevin Nash!

[KEVIN NASH]
Well, look at that. Kevin goddamn Nash on XWL Octane, who woulda' thunk it? I'm sure you're all wondering what the hell I'm doing here...after all, last time I was near the book, people said I killed WCW.

Nash lets out a hearty chuckle before grabbing a glass on the desk, taking a sip of water.

[KEVIN NASH]
Well, as you all know, this past March we lost an absolute icon in this industry...my best friend. And when I saw that the Intercontinental Championship, a title that Scotty held near and dear to his heart, had been vacated...I wanted to come up with an idea that would honor his legacy...so I pitched a tournament to Miss Deville here called...

[KEVIN NASH]
The Razor Classic.



[KEVIN NASH]
Eight men. Three weeks. One match to decide the new Intercontinental Champion at XWL's next special event, Resurgence. And what better way to kick off the resurgence of the Intercontinental Championship...than a match that helped define the legacy of that title? See, the two men who qualify for the finals of the Razor Classic won't face off in just any old one-on-one match. Nah...they're going to face off...

Nash slowly rises out of his chair, grabbing an object off-screen. A grunt is heard as Nash lifts the object into view...a ten foot high ladder!

[KEVIN NASH]
In the match that Scotty and the ol' Heart Break Kid helped innovate...a Ladder Match.

[SONYA DEVILLE]
Now, in determining the eight superstars who are going to compete for this prestigious championship, Mr. Regal and I have decided on the first four entrants in this tournament. First...



[SONYA DEVILLE]
A supreme athlete who defines the legacy of the Intercontinental Championship as the "workhorse title", a true workhorse in and out of the ring, Claudio CSRO. Second...



[SONYA DEVILLE]
A sinister, calculated expert in punishment, a man who could strike fear into the division with his cold, callous style, Karrion Kross. Third...



[SONYA DEVILLE]
A man who embodies the spirit of the Intercontinental Championship as the "no days off" title, a man who doesn't know the meaning of the word "quit", "The Hardcore Icon" Mick Foley. And the fourth of our eight competitors...



[SONYA DEVILLE]
The man who made his return on the last episode of Octane, and has proven himself as a fighting warrior of a champion before, "The PRINXE" Finn Balor. Now, when it came to determining the last four entrants into the Razor Classic...it's quite simple.

[SONYA DEVILLE]
The four men who do not qualify to become Number One Contender for the World Heavyweight Championship in tonight's main event will automatically be entered into the Razor Classic to be granted a second chance at gold. Best of luck to all eight competitors.

[KEVIN NASH]
Make Razor proud, boys.

Nash smirks as he grabs the Intercontinental Championship in one hand, lifting it up as the other hand forms the signature "wolf's head" gesture of The Kliq, as we fade into our next segment.

Claudio is seen in the back working out when Kayla Braxton is seen walking up to Claudio for an interview.

Kayla Braxton
Claudio, last week you came up short in a grueling match that could have really went either way between you and Ilja Dragunov last week, I wanted to get your thoughts On it.

Claudio
Listen, last week I had probably one of the best matches of my career with Ilja Dragunov. I requested the match because I see some of myself in him. Yes I came up short but you can’t win everything.

Just as Kayla was about to ask another Question in walk the XWL tag team champions Kevin Owen’s and Samoa Joe.

[Kevin Owens]
Well well well look who we have here!

The camera pans over to reveal the two men in all of their glory. Owens is eating a banana while Joe has a concerned look on his face.

[Kevin Owens]
Joe, you thinking what I’m thinking?

[Samoa Joe]
Uh, no, I don’t think so, and we should really get back to-

[Kevin Owens]
I mean, if XWL management can’t get any decent tag teams together to take us on, why don’t we just ask one of these two fine gentlemen here to do it? After all, it’s not like either of them have any chance of succeeding on their own to start with.

Owens very deliberately directs his attention to Claudio.

[Kevin Owens]
Especially not this fella right here.

Claudio stands and stares at Kevin Owen’s and Samoa Joe and then looks over to Ilja and then back to Joe and Owen’s.

Claudio
You want a match with us? Kevin, Joe, you do realize this “fella” she’s only an interviewer right?

Owen’s and Joe look around as if they don’t know what Claudio is talking about.

Claudio
Look guys, if you want a match bad enough I think I have an idea as to who I could potentially team with tonight. So if I were you leave me to finding a partner and you two go prepare.

Claudio and Kayla Braxton split ways, as Owens looks excited for whatever lies ahead, while Joe looks much more concerned about the two men they're facing later tonight.

[Pat McAfee]
HERE WE GO! WE'VE BEEN WAITING FOR THIS ONE! This will be where Sami Zayn or AJ Styles will prove they're Championship material!

[Tom Hanafan]
Yeah maybe, but my personal pick is Drew McIntyre, the man who has decimated everyone in his path, or perhaps the man who hasn't been pinned in multi-man matches in recent weeks Seth Rollins?

[RENEE YOUNG]
Good point Tom, but let's not forget the fastest rising star, even though the other 4 did, Austin Theory! He's been extremely impressive as of late!

[Tom Hanafan]
This match can go either way here tonight, but one thing is for sure. This match is going to tear the house down!

[Justin Roberts]
LADIES AND GENTLEMEN!!! THIS IS YOUR MAIN EVENT OF THE EVENING!

The crowd cheers for the spectacle they're about to witness, chants for each superstar can be heard even some for Austin Theory and Sami Zayn. One new to this company while the other mostly hated.

[Justin Roberts]
THE FOLLOWING MATCH IS A FIVE WAY ELIMINATION MATCH TO DETERMINE THE NUMBER ONE CONTENDER FOR THE XWL WORLD HEAVYWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP! Introducing first!


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The fans BOO louder than they have in a long time, this man who did nothing but run from everyone the entire match chose his moment and dropped Drew on the exposed turnbuckle to slay the Celtic Colossus. Sami drinks in the boos as it fuels him, he closes his eyes and extends his arms as his theme blasts through the arena.

[Pat McAfee]
OH MY GOD HE DID IT!! SAMI ZAYN HAS DONE IT!

[Tom Hanafan]
He sure did Pat! Sami Zayn outlasted 4 other men and was able to secure his spot in the World Title Match at Resurgence!

[RENEE YOUNG]
Some might call it slimy, but it was smart...he picked his spots in this Elimination Match and survived every elimination until he scored the final, and most important one.




Sami continues his celebration until his music cuts off, the camera pans to see none other than Robert Roode now in the crowd applauding Sami's efforts tonight, Sami shouts something that can't be heard over the ear-shattering Boos still filling the Arena, we can make out "Steal" and "Spotlight" and we can put two and two together that Sami isn't the biggest fan of our World Champion being out here tonight. Sami wipes his face and puts his hands on his hips, he angrily looks at Roode.   

[Pat McAfee]
Robert Roode sitting in all of his glory, with The World Heavyweight Championship that Sami Zayn just earned the right to challenge for at Resurgence!

[Tom Hanafan]
Glory that Sami no doubt hopes will soon be his

[RENEE YOUNG]
But Roode's reign speaks for itself, I attribute his recent "relaxed" demeanor as him truly enjoying his success after a long road back to the top, and an even longer one staying there.

While the boos are certainly not ceasing, the fans around Roode's front row spot seem to be directing some hostility his way, as if they're trying to egg him on to do something he won't do. "OH, GREAT TWO COWARDS CLASHING FOR THE TITLE!" The guy to his left says, as the guy to his right chimes back "If this guy was a REAL Champion he'd hop that barricade and show Sami what's what!" Roode stands there, no doubt hearing their conversation, and whether he's truly listening or not, he does look at his World Heavyweight Championship, then looks toward the two gentlemen with a smirk as he acknowledges them for probably the first time tonight despite sitting with them the whole show. "Go on then, don't be so shy hop that barricade, and tell Sami how you feel." They look at one another almost in shock, Roode is challenging them to do the very thing they just mocked him for not doing. As they stumble over their words, trying to excuse not doing it...he just laughs and says "Good chat fellas, now if you'll excuse me I'm going to go congratulate him because he busted his ass out here tonight." With that, Roode grabs the top of the barricade, lifting himself off the floor and leaping over the barricade landing into the ringside area. He quickly fixes his "GLORIOUS" t-shirt he's been wearing all night, then tosses his title back over his shoulder as he sets his sights on the ring.

[Pat McAfee]
Looks like tonight might not be over quite yet, The World Heavyweight Champion walking over to the ring, are we about to have ourselves a confrontation between two of the most despised individuals on our roster?

[RENEE YOUNG]
There's two mammoth sized egos battling it out for the richest prize at Resuregce, so a bit of posturing should come as no surprise to us.

[Tom Hanafan]
I don't know, the camera caught a bit of Roode talking to the fans around him, is it possible he just wants to congratulate Sami?

[RENEE YOUNG]
I mean, stranger things have happened...but, it's hard to believe there's not some ulterior motive behind this.

The Glorious Champion pops up onto the apron, looking toward a guarded but irritated Sami, and simply brings both hands together continuing his applause. "Settle down sport, I don't mean no trouble" Roode says. But again, do we believe that? Does Sami himself believe it? Roode soon kicks his leg through the middle rope and steps into the ring, placing his hand on the title proudly on display over his shoulder as he walks toward his newly crowned Number One Contender and throws his hand out. "Congratulations, I'm sure you're gonna give me one hell of a fight." Sami nods and goes in for the hand shake, as he their hands almost touch Sami quickly grabs for the World Heavyweight Championship and in a split second is clutching the Title while rolling out of the ring. A baffled Bobby Roode is shocked to see what just happened as the crowd is just now noticing too, boos poor down the arena as Sami is seen clutching the gold close to him and laughing maniacally. 

[RENEE YOUNG]
SAMI JUST STOLE BOBBY ROODE'S WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP! What are you doing Sami?!

[Pat McAfee]
Sami Zayn is MANY things, but he's never been a thief! Maybe he thought the match tonight was for the World Title?

[Tom Hanafan]
Oh yeah...I'm sure he did Pat, Sami knew what he was doing. The Master Stratigiest just pulled his greatest heist, The World Heavyweight Championship!

Greatest heist is right! Sami, cackling, backs up the ramp keeping his eye on Bobby Roode who in a calm anger just shakes his head towards the greesy weasle named Sami Zayn. Sami yells "THIS IS MINE, I NEVER LOST IT FAIRLY I WON IT BACK TONIGHT THIS IS MY BELT!" The fans disagree as the boos grow even louder.

[Pat McAfee]
Okay, maybe he knew what he was doing after all.

[RENEE YOUNG]
Yeah you think? Well, this was sure a hell of a show to come back too wasn't it boys?

[Tom Hanafan]
You could say that again, was awesome having you here tonight Renee! Please come back whenever you'd like!


Renee nods as she takes off her headset, the crowd settling down as Sami Zayn and Bobby Roode have made their way into the back, she bows to the crowd and waves as XWL goes off the air.

END OF SHOW