Reckoning Day 2026

The camera sweeps across a sold-out Pinnacle, the atmosphere electric with anticipation. Pyrotechnics explode from the stage as the Reckoning Day theme pounds through the arena. The crowd is on their feet, signs waving, the noise deafening.

JASON JOHNSON: Ladies and gentlemen, welcome to SHOOT Project's biggest event of the year. Welcome to Reckoning Day! I'm Jason Johnson alongside Eryk Masters, and E, this is it. This is the night where everything comes to a head.

ERYK MASTERS: Jason, you can feel it in the air. Seven matches. Four championships on the line. Careers will be made or broken tonight. Actions have consequences, and tonight, those consequences are coming due.

JASON JOHNSON: Let's talk about our main event. Corey Lazarus has held the World Heavyweight Championship for months, fighting off all comers with a ruthless efficiency that's both impressive and terrifying. But tonight, he faces Dustin "Thunderwolf" Kelser, and E, this one has gotten personal.

ERYK MASTERS: Personal doesn't even begin to cover it. These two have been at each other's throats for weeks. Thunderwolf has made it clear he's not intimidated by the champion's mind games or his vicious streak. But Corey Lazarus is a cold, calculating champion who will do whatever it takes to retain that title. And let's not forget Arthur Pleasant lurking in the shadows, making threats about cashing in opportunities.

JASON JOHNSON: Speaking of Arthur Pleasant, he's in action tonight in what might be the most dangerous match we've ever sanctioned. The Iron Fist Match. Knockout only. Ten count. No pinfalls, no submissions. Arthur Pleasant versus Ricky Tenet.

ERYK MASTERS: Ricky Tenet called him out. Said he wanted to prove he could stand with anyone. Well, be careful what you wish for. Arthur Pleasant is one of the most sadistic individuals in this business, and now he has permission to hurt someone until they can't get up. This is going to be brutal.

JASON JOHNSON: The Pantheon Championships are on the line in a triple threat tag team match, and this is where the war between the Grappler's Guild and The Empire reaches critical mass. Champions Mike de los Huesos and Golden Burkhalter have been unstoppable, but they've got targets on their backs.

ERYK MASTERS: Spinebuster Island, led by the Grappler's Guild, have been on a mission to restore what they call "real wrestling" to SHOOT Project. Joe Quinn and Dan Richards are old school technicians who believe they're owed these championships. Then you've got The Moonshiners, wildcards who can change the entire complexion of this match. Three teams, one set of titles, chaos guaranteed.

JASON JOHNSON: The Empire State Championship is being defended in a three-way dance, and The Darkspade has been playing mind games with both Vito Valentino and Johnny Napalm for weeks. The champion thrives in chaos, and this match is designed for exactly that.

ERYK MASTERS: Vito Valentino bet a million dollars on himself to win this match. That's the kind of confidence you need, but it's also the kind of pressure that can break you. Johnny Napalm is a brawler who doesn't care about mind games, he just wants to fight. And The Darkspade? He's in everyone's head, and that might be all he needs.

JASON JOHNSON: Madison Seton defends the Premier Championship against Izzy Sia in what promises to be a technical masterpiece. These two have been circling each other for weeks, and tonight we find out who the better wrestler really is.

ERYK MASTERS: This is going to be a chess match. Both of these competitors are technically sound, both are intelligent, both have something to prove. Seton wants to cement her legacy as Premier Champion. Sia wants to show she belongs at the top of this division. This one could steal the show.

JASON JOHNSON: We've got a number one contender's match for the Premier Championship with Josiah Hudson, Holden Nobody, and Ignatius Albert Martin in a triple threat. The winner gets a guaranteed shot at whoever walks out with that title tonight.

ERYK MASTERS: Three hungry competitors, all desperate to prove they belong in the championship picture. This is going to be fast, it's going to be aggressive, and someone's career is about to change forever.

JASON JOHNSON: And then there's Jamie Johnson versus Mike de los Huesos. The Grappler's Guild leader in his corporate suit, the man who calls himself Benchmark, going one on one with a Pantheon Champion who's also fighting in the triple threat tag match tonight.

ERYK MASTERS: Jamie Johnson has been methodical, calculating, building the Grappler's Guild into a force. But Mike de los Huesos is a warrior who's not going to be intimidated by corporate speak or fancy suits. This is about pride, about proving who really runs this place.

JASON JOHNSON: Seven matches. Four championships. Careers on the line. Grudges to be settled. E, this is what we've been building toward all year.

ERYK MASTERS: Actions have consequences, Jason. Tonight, everyone pays the price. Welcome to Reckoning Day.

The camera pulls back to show the massive Reckoning Day stage, pyrotechnics exploding once more as the crowd roars. The show is about to begin.

The belt was as shiny as ever as it sat on the champion's shoulder. Certainly, no one could say she wasn't taking care of the Premier Championship. It was doing herself proud as well as The Empire. It was a risk facing Izzy Sia later this evening, but a worthwhile one.

Because Madison Seton loves challenges. And being punched in the face.

As she stood just outside The Empire's locker room, she heard a commotion coming from further down the hall. Towards the wrestlers-only entrance. She turned her head to see what was up and a small smile came to her face. The figure entering caught her eye. She began heading that direction, getting halfway before turning her back. Her lengthy brown locks swayed lightly as she stepped backwards, softly singing the Squid Game song for the Red Light, Green Light game. Feeling a certain closeness, she stops.

Both singing and walking.

MADISON SETON: Red light!

She turns, a smug smile on her face as she eyes her "target." Her eyes move around quick. Not so much to look for movement, but more so taking in the figure before her. She had known this person well from watching wrestling as a kid. Now they were just feet apart. The camera pans out, allowing the viewers at home to see what Madison sees, and a fairly generous pop from the crowd is heard as Michael Draven looks down at the Premier Champion.

MICHAEL DRAVEN: X wasn't kidding. Security really is terrible in this place. Listen, I don't have anything to sign with, but if you've got a marker or something I can sign your replica belt?

An initial look of shock comes to the champ before her brow narrows. Did he really not know she was a SHOOT titleholder? Before she can get a word out, he interrupts her, a look of understanding shining through his gruff exterior.

MICHAEL DRAVEN: Oh, you're one of those fans! Listen, I mean...

Michael eyes her up and down in a very over-the-top manner, to the shock of the younger Seton.

MICHAEL DRAVEN: In another time, sure? But I'm happily married now. But maybe you'd have better luck with one of those fat guys at the local indy shows?

A look of disgust flashes across Madison's face, a look that quickly dissolves into anger. Her short temper was ready to burst. She does her best to control herself, though she was turning red and you could see the proverbial smoke coming from her ears. Another beat and she can't hold back, absolutely leveling Michael Draven with a vicious slap across the face. Draven staggers backwards, holding his jaw, as the Premier Champion gets the last word in.

MADISON SETON: The player would be advised to treat me with more respect. Otherwise... he will be...

Her voice becomes more peaceful. Almost a joyous tone.

MADISON SETON: Eliminated!

She spins around quick, her hair nearly brushing against Draven's face.

MADISON SETON: Green light!

And with that, Seton storms off. In her absence, Draven simply smirks, holding his jaw, and suddenly the cheers from the audience grow even louder as X-Calibur steps into frame. He pats Michael on the back, chuckling at the outcome.

X-CALIBUR: I hate to break it to you, but that wasn't a groupie. That was Madison Seton, Laura's sister, and the Premier Champion.

Draven massages his jaw, looking off towards the direction Maddie had taken off in.

MICHAEL DRAVEN: Oh, I know exactly who she is.

X-CALIBUR: Ohhh! So you know she's a raging bitch with zero sense of humor and a younger sister to a legend complex. Good to know.

Michael's next words are spoken to X, but he never looks in the legend's direction.

MICHAEL DRAVEN: Hey, let's go talk about tonight.

And with that, the former rivals head off together as we head back to ringside.

A stationary security camera set up in the Pinnacle's parking garage records and broadcasts the masses, buzzing with the usual sort of activity and energy of the biggest events to be held within its walls. Members of the production crew dart by as AEGIS Security guards each entrance, making sure that no fan makes it past the barricades to accost the talent as they march from their cars to the locker room.

Two such talents stand out, both in how drastic their appearances differ from the other bodies around them and in the unmistakable, seething disgust at their presence from the various crew members that flank them on all sides.

Chance. Hannah. The Kelser Covenant.

The twins march with purposeful swagger across the garage, their destination unknown. Rotten vibes follow them, a sepulchral aura emanating from every pore.

HANNAH KELSER: My brother, do you know what import this evening holds?

CHANCE KELSER: Yes, my sister. It is the eve of domination for the DeMONSTRance once more, the next chapter bound to the lessons to be told.

HANNAH KELSER: And what is the curriculum for tonight?

Chance halts, a shadow of a grin crawling across his face that is matched by Hannah's knowing eyes.

HANNAH KELSER: The cursed son, and of the thin line between humility and humiliation.

They round the corner, just beyond view of the stationary camera. Chance's voice echoes from beyond the frame as Hannah holds open a door leading into the backstage proper...

CHANCE KELSER: And tonight, poor Richard will...!!

...before it is cut off by GLASS SHATTERING. Hannah shrieks...

HANNAH KELSER: ...YOU!?!

The feed cuts to a security camera within the corridor just beyond the opened door, finding a masked assailant sporting a SHOOT Project ROAD CREW jacket as they tear Chance's face away from the broken glass that once concealed a fire extinguisher. Chance, his blood dripping from fresh gashes across his face and mixing with his usual ritualistic painted skull, falls to a heap as his attacker rips the fire extinguisher from its case.

The alleged ROAD CREW agent slams the fire extinguisher into Chance's arm, again and again, halting only to turn as Hannah rushes them. In a heartbeat, Hannah cries out before a metallic THWUNK cracks across the security camera's microphone, the fire extinguisher making perfect contact with her jaw.

Hannah crumbles, blood exploding from her nose, as the assailant continues their work on Chance. SLAM. SLAM. SLAM. THWUNK. THWUNK. THWUNK. Chance cries out as AEGIS Security rounds the corner, tackling the masked aggressor, but a quick squeeze of the extinguisher's grip fills the corridor with white gas. The makeshift smoke screen allows the assailant to vanish down the hallway.

The next security camera in sequence fires up, revealing...

...nothing.

The camera cuts back to ringside where Jason Johnson and Eryk Masters sit behind the commentary desk, the energy of The Pinnacle still buzzing around them.

JASON JOHNSON: What a night we've had so far at Reckoning Day. E, let's talk about what we've witnessed because the ramifications of these first few matches are going to be felt for months to come.

ERYK MASTERS: Jason, the Grappler's Guild sent a message tonight. Jamie Johnson defeated Mike de los Huesos in what can only be described as a statement match. Benchmark proved that his methodical, technical approach can beat a Pantheon Champion. And remember, Mike still has to compete later tonight in the tag team triple threat.

JASON JOHNSON: That's the question I keep asking myself. How much did that loss take out of Mike de los Huesos? He and Golden Burkhalter are defending the Pantheon Championships against two hungry teams, and now one half of the champions has already been through a war with Jamie Johnson. That could be a factor.

ERYK MASTERS: And speaking of the Guild, they just got another huge win. Spinebuster Island is still in the hunt for those tag titles. The Guild is making their presence felt all over this card.

JASON JOHNSON: Let's talk about the number one contender's match. Holden Nobody just punched his ticket to a Premier Championship match by defeating both Josiah Hudson and Ignatius Albert Martin. That was an absolute war, and Holden showed everyone why he deserves to be in the title picture.

ERYK MASTERS: Three competitors, all desperate to prove themselves, and Holden Nobody was the one who seized the moment. But here's the thing, Jason. He has to wait to see who wins between Madison Seton and Izzy Sia later tonight. And speaking of Madison Seton, we need to talk about what just happened backstage.

JASON JOHNSON: That was bizarre. Michael Draven approached Madison Seton backstage, and it was like he didn't even know who she was. He acted completely oblivious, almost like he was playing mind games or something worse.

ERYK MASTERS: That was textbook gaslighting, Jason. Whether it's genuine or calculated, Madison has to defend her championship later tonight, and now she's got this rattling around in her head. That's dangerous. You need to be focused for a match with Izzy Sia, and right now, I have to wonder if she's mentally prepared.

JASON JOHNSON: We also saw the Kelser Covenant backstage earlier. Someone, I'm assuming it's Ricky Tenet, got a piece of them leading into his match with Arthur Pleasant. That match is coming up shortly, actually.

ERYK MASTERS: The World Heavyweight Championship match is still to come. The Empire State Championship three-way dance. The Pantheon Championships triple threat. The Iron Fist Match between Arthur Pleasant and Ricky Tenet. And Madison Seton defending against Izzy Sia. Jason, we're only halfway through Reckoning Day.

JASON JOHNSON: The Grappler's Guild has momentum. Holden Nobody just earned the opportunity of a lifetime. And the biggest matches of the night are still ahead of us. E, this has been everything we hoped for and more.

ERYK MASTERS: Reckoning Day lives up to its name. Actions have consequences, and tonight, we're watching those consequences play out in real time. Let's send it backstage.

We cut backstage to the talent and crew parking lot to see one half of the Moonshiners sitting on the tailgate of a black Dodge Ram, already in his ring gear. Josh Kaine lets his legs swing, a bottle of water in his hand as he starts to speak.

JOSH KAINE: Don't like bullies. Been sayin' that for almost two years now since I joined this company. Been some ups and downs, found some good people and been dropped by others in the process.

A wry grin starts to spread across his face.

JOSH KAINE: Then again, if it ain't for some folks bein' real jackasses, me'n my tag partner Aaron wouldn't be here competin' for the Pantheon titles. Sometimes, other folks' dumbassery can work out real good for us, huh, Aaron?

Dearinger comes in from off camera, already in his gear as well, and hops up alongside his tag partner on the tailgate. Josh takes a pull from his water bottle as Aaron responds.

AARON DEARINGER: Yeah, sounds about right.

JOSH KAINE: Yeah, that's about right. So where the fuck you been?

The younger member of the Moonshiners looks off toward the other cars.

JOSH KAINE: You even give a shit we're fightin' for the title belts tonight? Every time I've been tryin' to find you to work together, you ain't nowhere to be found. I'm good in the ring, but I ain't four on one good. Can't take care of my family and yours and make sure nothin' happens to 'em and they feel safe by myself. So fuckin' tell me, do you even give a shit, Dearinger?

Dearinger looks taken aback at first, confused by the sudden change in Kaine's tone and attitude. But he gets over it quickly, nodding even as he stares off into the distance.

AARON DEARINGER: Okay, well, maybe I deserve that. Maybe I ain't been as present as I should be...at home or in the ring. But it ain't 'cause I don't give a shit. No, son, I got the exact opposite problem. This wrasslin' thing might just be the most important thing to me in the world.

Aaron looks into the camera, a twinkle in his blue eyes.

AARON DEARINGER: Truth is, I ain't been around much 'cause I was busy sellin' the first and only house I ever bought down in Texas. I didn't need to sell it...we was usin' it as an airbnb, hell, we was just gettin' profitable. But you got your whole life ahead of you, kid. And it's gonna be a bright one. You got a mom who was a legend in this industry...you got all the talent in the world, and you got them young man knees. Me?

Dearinger shook his head sadly.

AARON DEARINGER: My career's on borrowed time. I look in the mirror every day, I talk to God every mornin' and I say dammit Aaron, you shoulda got started younger. You shoulda worked harder. You shoulda put yer nose to the grindstone, made the tough choices early, but I didn't. I coulda been a Golden Burkhalter...or maybe one o' them Spinebuster fellas with the cool nicknames. Anvil and Hammer...that's a good'n...wish somebody woulda called me somethin' like that. Only thing I ever got called was a disappointment. Them's my pa's words, God rest his soul. No, I didn't put in the work like I shoulda. But here I am anyway. I'm here, boy, me and you.

Josh can only nod. He can't say he'd heard words like that from his own father, but his tag partner's words are sinking in.

AARON DEARINGER: And we're about to face off for the Pantheon Championships at Reckoning Day. Oh, I give a shit son. More'n you know. More than you CAN know. I ain't even 'sposed to be here. But I am, I didn't never quit! I didn't NEVER stop dreamin'! I clawed my way here, I crawled out a hole to get here, so I give a shit, Josh. I believe. I believe you an' me, we're gonna walk outta Reckoning Day champions. I believe it in every bone in my BODY. I believe it enough to leave my home of Houston, Texas for New York City...I believe it enough to sell the house I raised my daughters in. You can train all day and all night, but believing...

He shakes a finger at Josh.

AARON DEARINGER: ...ain't that half the battle?

Josh just snorts with laughter, clearly having been won over by his partner's speech. He could give the older man another chance. Dearinger cared so much about all of this but let himself get distracted, and he didn't take getting called out on his bullshit in a bad way. He just owned up to it. Josh Kaine can live with that.

JOSH KAINE: Yeah, G.I. Joe, believin' can be half the battle.

The younger man heaves a long-suffering sigh, but brings the smile back to his face.

JOSH KAINE: Just remember the other half is fuckin' showin' up. Ain't my first time partnerin' with someone who's wrestlin' on borrowed time, well...only really partnered with Sahara in trainin' but she was a 34 year old rookie who went on to be a world champ and she fuckin' decimated my Ma in the ring durin' her last match.

Josh turns to his tag partner, elbowing the older man playfully.

JOSH KAINE: Point is, I ain't goin' nowhere. We got titles to win and you got smiles to put on your girls' faces. Now let's go fuckin' do this.

A peculiar scene unfolds as the stage crew rolls a mirror out onto the stage at the far right end with an industrial-strength dolly. The large mirror, approximately 12 feet tall, is laid flat. It makes a thud, sparking intrigue and interest among all the fans.

Jason Johnson and Eryk Masters are also attentive to the addition to the stage.

JASON JOHNSON: Well, it's another prop to our event, although I am not sure what it represents.

ERYK MASTERS: I kinda like it! Gives wrestlers a chance to make any makeup or attire changes at the very last minute!

JASON JOHNSON: If you say so, it looks gaudy to me!

The mirror was just outside the fans' view, seemingly merging into the background as only the faintest light illuminated it. The stagehands throw a black tarp over it, leave a few unknown items by it, and disappear backstage.

Without notice or warning, the lights cut out. The entire arena is plunged into darkness, catching the fans off guard and heightening their sense of suspense. For a moment it remains that way, an inescapable void that makes all feel unprepared. A cold dead aura emerges from the top of the stage followed by a haunting, dreadful blue hue. Right at that very moment... an eerie howling sound creeps in.

The entrance of the Empire State Champion sounds off, complete with a deathly mechanical vibration.

Darkspade stops a few steps out from the backstage as his music plays, commanding the darkness by his will, his long black gothic cape swaying with the cold air. Some of the fans' cheers grow louder, their chants of "DARKEST HOUR... DARKEST HOUR..." echoing through the space. The most peculiar thing is how he holds a red gasoline canister in his right hand.

He turns ever so slightly towards his left where a faint light illuminates the mirror placed there a little while ago. The Unholy One approaches the mirror and slowly removes the tarp. His music fades away and the mirror, its purpose finally coming to light, reflects his dark and sinister intentions. His design... his genius. The Darkspade grins with evil delight as he places the canister down by the mirror and picks up a microphone left by the stage crew. The surprising number of fans screaming in anticipation grow louder, the Darkspade faithful shouting "DARKEST HOUR... DARKEST HOUR... DARKEST HOUR!!!!" The Unholy One's white eyes glisten at that chant as he raises the microphone to his cold lips.

THE DARKSPADE: Vito, Napalm... the clock is ticking to your day of demise. This is YOUR final judgement, your final guidance... and your Reckoning Day. This mirror represents the truth to you all. On the outside, you present a vision of strength, legacy, arrogance, and overconfidence. However, beneath the layers of flesh resides your true form. A soul that is doomed to eternal damnation. An essence that reeks of cowardice and failure. Yes. The Darkest Hour is near, and you two fools will once again be subjected to my decree and

As Darkspade speaks, blood is being written on the surface of the mirror. Darkspade had not been watching this unfold, but the fans throughout the Pinnacle definitely did. The Unholy One does not seem to care until the fans erupt. At this point he stops and turns to look at the mirror.

JASON JOHNSON: What in the ever-loving fuck is THAT?!

ERYK MASTERS: I don't know, Jace, but... yeah, this is about to get creepy as all fuck.

The Unholy One responds with a sinister smile. He carefully rolls the side of his fingers against the reflective surface of the mirror, smearing some of the seemingly red blood that wrote the letters. The Darkspade takes hold of the canister and showers the mirror with gasoline as the audience looks on, perplexed. He takes a few steps back to admire his work and raises the mic again.

THE DARKSPADE: Oh no, Napalm... you wretched, deluded fool. You speak as if you are in control, but you were never in control. There is no true ending for either of us. Only a beginning... a darker one. A beginning where the Darkest Hour gathers the shattered remnants of your ruined soul. That soul is corrupted, poisoned by lies you chose to believe. The path you cling to will not save you from the unholy evil that stalks you... the evil you are too blind to recognize. Yet the cure has always been simple. It has already been offered to you. Embrace the Unholy Darkness as your one true savior. Only then will your ending be complete... and only through that ending can your true beginning emerge.

The Darkspade flicks his right fingers and from it ignites a fiery flame. In an instant he flings it at the mirror and it erupts in fire. He turns away from the mirror to speak more.

THE DARKSPADE: So let the fire burn. Let it scour away every LIE you carry. Let it reduce your false truths to ash... until nothing remains but the unholy darkness waiting to clai...

As if summoned by fate itself, the mirror's reflective surface suddenly fractures with a violent crack. Napalm bursts through the shattered reflection! The attack is so sudden that Darkspade has no chance to react. Napalm seizes him by the head with brutal force and drives it downward into a rising knee. Darkspade's head snaps violently backward, his body recoiling from the devastating blow while shards of the broken mirror rain to the floor around them and crash down onto the steel ramp.

Napalm wastes no time. He grabs a shard of glass and hovers over The Darkspade with it.

JASON JOHNSON: Holy -- I cannot believe what we are witnessing. This match hasn't even started and someone's about to lose an eye! And it's not even Arthur Pleasant doing the eye removal this time!

ERYK MASTERS: What does Johnny Napalm intend to do? Is he just going to outright kill him?!

JASON JOHNSON: There's not a chance AEGIS Security is going to let this shit fly. Not at Reckoning Day! Not ever!

Napalm was within mere inches of slicing Darkspade's face when from somewhere in the building...

HOOOOOOOOONK!!

ERYK MASTERS: Was that...?

JASON JOHNSON: It sounded like... a truck horn?!

The fans grow silent for a moment when all of a sudden, appearing on the SHOOTron... IS VITO VALENTINO DRIVING A BIG ASS LADY LIBERTY COLORED MONSTER TRUCK!!

The fans ROAR in approval for Vito Valentino, who has suffered so much personally at the hands of The Darkspade. For a moment, The Darkspade and Johnny Napalm stop beating the piss out of one another and look up to see him driving the truck. Johnny Napalm gives an audible "WHAT THE FUCK?!" and throws glass up at the SHOOTron out of anger.

But The Darkspade cocks his head and points toward the east side of the Pinnacle where it's wide enough for vehicles to get through... where Vito's monster truck enters the arena to the absolute delight of the crowd.

Laying into the horn, the fans roar even more. Darkspade and Napalm both watch cautiously, waiting to see if The SmashShow is going to try and run them over.

ERYK MASTERS: Jesus. He could squash both of them like bugs right now if they're not careful!

JASON JOHNSON: Yeah, I don't think Vito wants to commit murder tonight on Reckoning Day. Unlike Johnny Napalm. Or The Darkspade. God, so much murder going around. Can't we all just get along or bash each other senseless with chairs?! I miss the good ole days.

Vito steps out of his monster truck with a microphone in hand. Wearing his Lady Liberty colored gear from Zenith 12, he points down towards Darkspade.

VITO VALENTINO: DO YOU EVER SHUT THE FUCK UP?! GODDAMN.

"Fuck 'em up Vito, fuck 'em up!" "Fuck 'em up Vito, fuck 'em up!"

Vito laughs while Darkspade and Napalm look up with nasty, evil glares.

VITO VALENTINO: I think I can speak for mostly everyone here when I say we're all sick of your INTO THE VOID demonic bullshit. At least, you'd think they are after witnessing you tamper with my shit. To the point where you almost fuckin' murdered Sarah and myself. But you know what really pisses me off?!

They continue looking up, searching for ways to climb to Vito. Vito, meanwhile, pats the monster truck that has the word "SMAAAAAAASHOW" on the roof and "THE SINGULARITY" on the giant doors. The tires, for some unknown reason, have "fuck vito valentino" on them.

VITO VALENTINO: Hope you like it... HECTOR!

The audience laughs as a "HECTOR" chant breaks out.

JASON JOHNSON: Okay, that's pretty goddamn funny.

ERYK MASTERS: For those of you unaware, Vito's fiancee re-named The Darkspade "Hector" after she decided she didn't like the name Darkspade during an unexpected promo from her!

JASON JOHNSON: I couldn't stop laughing, personally.

Smiling down at them, Vito puts the microphone to his lips one more time.

VITO VALENTINO: One more thing? I really liked that truck. Cost me a pretty penny, too. So you know what? I just decided to... go for an upgrade. Just like the Empire State Title will be getting from me tonight.

Vito throws the microphone down at Napalm, which gives a loud bop as it connects with his head and sends him to the Pinnacle floor. Then, with reckless abandon, Vito pulls himself up onto the roof of the monster truck... AND JUMPS OFF WITH A FLYING CROSS BODY ONTO THE DARKSPADE BELOW!!

"HO-LY-SHIT! HO-LY-SHIT!" "HO-LY-SHIT! HO-LY-SHIT!"

As Vito gets up off of Darkspade, he's grabbed from behind by Napalm and has his head bashed into the side of the monster truck door, sending the SmashShow down onto the floor. Darkspade, meanwhile, connects with a nasty boot to the face of Napalm, rocking him. Having picked up a shard of the mirrored glass, Darkspade looks as if he's going to drive it right into Napalm, or perhaps Vito, when the AEGIS Security team pours out from the backstage and sides of the stage entrance.

The crowd boos, wanting to see more carnage. Five of the professionally trained AEGIS guards push Vito back against one of the massive tires, and another grabs Darkspade's hand, disarming him immediately from the glass shard and tackling him to the ground with his title still wrapped firmly around his waist. Another five guards grab Napalm, finally gaining a huge measure of control.

Finally, a man steps out from all of the guards, shaking his head.

ERYK MASTERS: It's Marcus Webb himself!

MARCUS WEBB: That's enough now. I have a message. From Real Deal himself.

Webb pulls out a piece of paper that looks like it has actual handwriting on it instead of being typed up.

MARCUS WEBB: And I quote! "GET IN THE FUCKING RING AND START THE MATCH NOW BEFORE I FIRE ALL THREE OF YOU!"

Vito laughs and mouths "fair enough" as Darkspade and Napalm look on angrily at the Director of Operations for AEGIS Security.

ERYK MASTERS: AEGIS Security is already making a huge impact tonight!

JASON JOHNSON: I'll say! With all the chaos going on, this could've ended before it ever began, robbing the SHOOT fans of what could be an incredible triple threat match for the Empire State Championship. But, as the saying goes... NOT TODAY!

Once AEGIS Security drags all three men to the ring, sending them rolling under the bottom rope with surprising strength and authority, the fans roar in appreciation.

MARCUS WEBB: Now RING. THAT. FUCKING. BELL!!!

The cameras settle on the commentary position as Eryk Masters leans forward in his chair, shaking his head slowly at everything the night has already produced.

ERYK MASTERS: Alright. Let's just take a second here because this night has been a lot. We are not even close to done and Reckoning Day has already delivered more than most full shows ever do.

JASON JOHNSON: You want to start with the Iron Fist Match? Because I think Ricky Tenet might have permanently rearranged Arthur Pleasant's face tonight. Knockout only, ten count, and Pleasant never got up. Tenet was relentless from the opening bell and I don't think Arthur Pleasant saw half of it coming.

ERYK MASTERS: Ricky Tenet wins the Iron Fist Match and he did it the hard way. Arthur Pleasant is not easy to put down under any ruleset. Under knockout-only rules? That is a different level of difficult. Tenet earned every bit of that one.

JASON JOHNSON: And then the Empire State Championship. I don't even know where to begin with that one, Eryk. We had a monster truck. We had a mirror. We had gasoline. We had glass. I genuinely thought someone was going to die before the bell even rang.

ERYK MASTERS: Marcus Webb and AEGIS Security basically had to physically throw all three of them into the ring just to get the match started. And after all of that, after everything Darkspade pulled on that entrance ramp, after Napalm coming through that mirror... Johnny Napalm is your new Empire State Champion.

JASON JOHNSON: The Darkspade's reign is over. I know how much Vito wanted that title tonight, and honestly, the SmashShow had his moments out there. But Napalm was just... Napalm. When he gets in that zone, there is very little anyone can do about it.

ERYK MASTERS: And we cannot forget what happened earlier tonight. Chance and Hannah Kelser were attacked in that parking garage before the show even got going. Whoever was in that ROAD CREW jacket knew exactly what they were doing. Chance went face-first into a fire extinguisher case and Hannah took a shot to the jaw. We have not heard any update on their condition.

JASON JOHNSON: AEGIS got to the scene and the attacker vanished. That is not sitting well with me. Someone is walking around in this building tonight who did that to two of our roster members and we do not know who it is.

ERYK MASTERS: A lot of moving pieces tonight. But here is what we still have ahead of us, and I want people to understand what is still on the table. The Pantheon Championships. Three tag teams, one set of titles, and The Empire defending against both Spinebuster Island and The Moonshiners. I talked to Josh Kaine and Aaron Dearinger earlier tonight and those two are locked in. Dearinger in particular looked like a man who has been waiting his whole career for a moment exactly like this one.

JASON JOHNSON: And then Madison Seton defends the Premier Championship against Izzy Sia. I will say this, whatever happened backstage between Madison and Michael Draven earlier... that slap was something else. But Madison cannot afford to have any of that living in her head when Izzy Sia is across the ring. Izzy does not take nights off, and she especially does not take nights off on this stage.

ERYK MASTERS: And at the end of all of it, Thunderwolf and Corey Lazarus for the World Heavyweight Championship. The main event of Reckoning Day. Lazarus has been carrying that title with the kind of confidence that gets dangerous when it starts looking like arrogance. Thunderwolf has not blinked once through all of it. That one is going to tell us everything we need to know.

Masters sits back and lets the crowd noise fill the arena around them. The night is far from over.

The cameras cut backstage, where JOHNNY VIGNOCHI pops the collar of his cheap shirt as he walks up to his destination: the locker room of the SHOOT Project World Heavyweight Champion, COREY LAZARUS. He spritzes some Listerine breath spray in his rotting mouth and runs a gold-ringed hand over his oil slick hair.

JOHNNY VIGNOCHI: Here goes nothin'...

Johnny knocks on the door...

JOHNNY VIGNOCHI: Hey there big dawg! Champ! It's ya boy, Johnny V!

...and again...

JOHNNY VIGNOCHI: You know, Johnny Vignochi? Big-time talent agent, I'm pretty sure you've heard of me! C'mon pal, open the door! I've got a once in a lifetime opportunity for ya, ya never gonna believe it!

...but halts himself from knocking a third time.

JOHNNY VIGNOCHI: God dammit.

Johnny tries the handle and, to his surprise, finds that the door is unlocked. He chuckles to himself as he opens it wide, finding Lazarus leaning against the wall, his elbow raised over his head. Corey tilts his chin down, grunting under his breath, and holds still for a few moments. Save for the elbow pad tucked into the waistband of his tights, Laz is prepped for tonight's main event defense.

JOHNNY VIGNOCHI: There he is! Holy shit...has anybody told you you're a lot bigger in person? Ya definitely been puttin' in the work, champ, I mean look at them fuckin' traps. You could squeeze mustard onto a hotdog with those things! So listen, you're a straight shooter, I'm a straight shooter, and I don't wanna waste anybody's time heah, so I'll cut straight to the point. Johnny Vignochi Talent and Entertainment Agency, Corey Lazerus, SHOOT Project World Champion, together...as one unit. Me and you. BOOM.

Corey's back remains to Vignochi, the Hollywood Kid slowly switching from one arm to the other.

JOHNNY VIGNOCHI: It's a match made in heaven! Like peanut butter and jelly, soup and crackers, narcan and a junkie! Huh? I mean think uh the possibilities! You're the champ, you're the guy, we all get it, but with a Vig at your side? We'll be printin' money! I've got PR experience, tax litigation experience, proven sponsorship procurement chops, hell, I got a background in film and cinema too! It ain't Black Circle V: Ordo ad Chao, and it's certainly pornographic, but they say porno is the fast food of the movie industry, right? Hey, that may be an avenue we can explore for ya! How many inches ya workin' with?

Still, Vignochi receives no reaction, frustration growing on his face.

JOHNNY VIGNOCHI: Fireball Cinnamon Whiskey? Cream of Obscene anal ointment? These aren't just opportunities, Corey, these are legacy brands. And legacy brands mean legacy MONEY, my guy, but you're a smart fella...I ain't gotta explain all that to ya's, right?

Johnny shucks and jives, at least as best as he can, and his face lights up as Corey steps back from the wall. To Vignochi's dismay, however, "the Last Damn Icon" switches from his arms against the wall to lunging toward it, raising a knee to his chest and balancing his forehead against the wall. Johnny sighs, dismayed, but he has no time for self pity as he's interrupted by a third party.

The Cream of Obscene himself.

NC-17. He regards his so-called manager coolly.

NC-17: Vig...what are you doing here?

JOHNNY VIGNOCHI: Uhhh....Teen! Buddy! Pal! Amigo! I been lookin' all ovah for ya! Ya haven't answered my calls in weeks!

NC-17: I've been on a spiritual journey. But that doesn't answer my question.

JOHNNY VIGNOCHI: Uhhh...I'm uh, negotiating a title shot for ya! With the champ! We're just hashin' out the-

NC-17 grabs Vig by the lapels of his shirt and brings his face within inches of Johnny's. The mohawked king of crass looks FURIOUS.

NC-17: Abandoning ship, huh. Attaching yourself to the next host?

JOHNNY VIGNOCHI: N-no! Teen, honey, sweetie! I would neva!

NC-17: You would never my ass.

NC-17 shoves Vignochi, who bumps into Lazarus from behind. The L-A-Z catches himself as he is shoved toward the wall and turns on a dime, readying an elbow as he looks on quizzically.

COREY LAZARUS: ...guys...

Corey reaches into his ears and pulls out a pair of ear buds, the faintest strains of some obscure death metal coming from them as he clenches them in his fist.

COREY LAZARUS: ...no autographs until after the show, dig?

NC-17 draws himself up, a sneer on his face as he inches into Corey's personal space. He's clearly got some sort of agenda with Lazarus, though who's to say what. We haven't seen him on television in weeks.

NC-17: You know, somebody great once told me that time is a flat circle. You don't even know it, but I've been hurling through time and space all to get to this moment...my moment...and you think I want your autograph?

Corey looks NC-17 up and down, taking in the abundance of prison tattoos and the greasy mohawk. He then looks at himself, foot to chest, and shrugs.

COREY LAZARUS: Babe, I don't even know anymore, dig? Half the people back here want to kill me, the other half want to kiss me, and so when some Hot Topic Max Cady pops into my locker room with his walking, talking example of why a woman's choice matters? I don't know what to expect.

Lazarus casually points to the door, cracking a smirk.

COREY LAZARUS: So have your people call my people...you know, once you've had a shower...

He gives NC-17 another once-over, visibly recoiling in disgust after giving a light sniff.

COREY LAZARUS: ...or twelve...

Teen throws his arms up in disbelief as Vignochi rests his hand on his shoulder.

JOHNNY VIGNOCHI: Don't take the bait, Teen. Deep breaths, it's not worth-

But NC-17 lunges at Corey, and Vig is forced to try to keep the bigger man restrained. The cream of obscene is wild-eyed as he jabs a finger in Corey's direction.

NC-17: I want what's MINE. Master of the Mat, 2024! I never got the title shot I was promised. And I WILL have it.

Corey rubs his eyes, sighing as he steps over to his luggage. He pulls the SHOOT Project World Heavyweight Championship belt out and slaps it over his shoulder, walking back toward Vignochi and Teen.

COREY LAZARUS: You see, junior, my dance card's already filling up, so if you want to cut a rug with the Hollywood Kid?

Lazarus casually brushes his shoulder against NC-17's, continuing on past him.

COREY LAZARUS: You'll have to get in line.

Johnny Vig struggles to keep his wilding client at bay as Corey disappears out of the locker room and down the hallway, and the camera slowly fades...

Now Entering the 2026 Tag Team Master of the Mat...

Michael Draven.

X-Calibur.

Together... they are:

The camera finds Jamie Johnson standing in the hallway with Spinebuster Island. Joe Quinn and Dan Richards are dressed and ready, focused. Avalanche Anderson looms behind them, arms crossed, silent and imposing. Jamie adjusts his suit jacket and looks both men in the eye.

JAMIE JOHNSON: Gentlemen, this is what we've been building toward. Everything the Grappler's Guild stands for comes down to the next twenty minutes. Real wrestling. Technical superiority. The standard we set, not the circus they've been running.

He steps closer, his voice calm and measured.

JAMIE JOHNSON: The Empire thinks they're untouchable. The Moonshiners think they can hang with you. They're both wrong. You two are the best pure tag team in this company. You out-wrestle everyone. You out-think everyone. Tonight, you prove it to the world.

Joe Quinn nods, his jaw set. Dan Richards cracks his knuckles.

JAMIE JOHNSON: Stick to the game plan. Let them brawl. Let them make mistakes. You stay disciplined, you stay technical, and when the opening comes, you take it. Those championships belong around your waists. Go get them.

Spinebuster Island heads toward the curtain, Avalanche Anderson following close behind. Jamie Johnson watches them go, confident and composed. The Grappler's Guild is ready.

JASON JOHNSON: What a night it has been here at Reckoning Day. We are almost through it, Eryk, and I have to say this show has delivered at every single turn.

ERYK MASTERS: Before we get to the main event, let's take stock of where we are. Because a lot has happened tonight and the landscape of SHOOT Project looks a little different than it did when we kicked this thing off.

JASON JOHNSON: We'll start with the news that broke a few minutes ago. Michael Draven and X-Calibur have formally announced that they are entering the 2026 Tag Team Master of the Mat as a team. The World Warriors. Those are two of the most decorated names in professional wrestling history, and together? I don't know what you do about that.

ERYK MASTERS: You don't sleep, that's what you do. The Tag Team Master of the Mat just got a whole lot more dangerous with those two in the bracket. Whoever ends up with the Pantheon Championships had better be paying attention.

JASON JOHNSON: Speaking of which. The Pantheon Championships are still right where they were when the night started. The Empire survived a three-way war tonight, and I want to be very clear about the word "survived." Spinebuster Island and the Moonshiners brought everything they had. That match was a grind. But when it was over, The Empire walked out still holding those belts.

ERYK MASTERS: It wasn't clean, Jason. It was ugly and it was hard-fought and every team in that match earned whatever they have coming to them next. But yeah, the titles stay with The Empire. For now.

JASON JOHNSON: For now is right. Because between Fear and Loathing making noise, the World Warriors throwing their names in, and every other tag team in this company watching what happened tonight and thinking they can do better...the Pantheon Championship picture is going to be one of the most interesting storylines heading into the summer.

ERYK MASTERS: But none of that happens until we get through tonight. And we've still got the biggest match of the year left on the table. Thunderwolf. Corey Lazarus. The World Heavyweight Championship. Jason, you opened this show talking about what Reckoning Day means to this company. The main event is why.

JASON JOHNSON: Corey Lazarus has been a great World Champion so far, knocking off Arthur Pleasant earlier in the year. But Thunderwolf is not everyone. Thunderwolf has wanted this moment and when the lights are biggest, he has a way of rising to meet them.

ERYK MASTERS: It is a genuine coin flip, and I mean that. I cannot tell you with any confidence who walks out of here tonight as World Heavyweight Champion. What I can tell you is that if you've stayed with us all night, the best is still ahead of you. That match is going to be something special.

JASON JOHNSON: We'll take a moment to reset and then we are going to get you to the main event. Stay right where you are, people, because Reckoning Day is not done with you yet.

There is a brief pause at the commentary table as the two men settle in. Jason begins shuffling notes. Eryk leans back in his chair and scans the arena. The crowd, still buzzing from the Pantheon match, begins to stir with anticipation for what's coming.

Then the opening notes of a familiar song begin to filter through the speakers, and the crowd shifts immediately.

ERYK MASTERS: Is that...

Jason Johnson sets his notes down slowly. He already knows the answer.

Chad Kroeger feat. Josey Scott - Hero [Audio]

"I AM SO HIGH, I CAN HEAR HEAVAAAAAAN"

ERYK MASTERS: We haven't heard that sound in quite some time, Jason.

JASON JOHNSON: Chad Kyle has been out of action here in SHOOT Project for quite a while, I really hate to say it, but I kinda missed the guy a little bit.

ERYK MASTERS: No one missed Chad, Jason...

From behind the curtain, Chad Kyle wheels himself out in a wheelchair. He still wears bandages on his face and hands, but they have been cut free from his fingers. He stops at the edge of the stage and stares down the ramp, seemingly a little concerned about the steep angle going down to the ring.

ERYK MASTERS: Dear lord please let him absolutely wipe out coming down that ramp.

JASON JOHNSON: C'mon, Eryk. I don't think this man can handle anymore trauma.

Chad inches the wheelchair to the edge of the ramp and begins to slowly make his way down. Somewhere around two feet down the ramp, he loses control and spins backwards. The wheelchair begins to careen down the ramp before he is able to get control of the wheels just before he crashes into the apron.

JASON JOHNSON: I'll bet he's awful glad to still have those bandages on his hand.

Waiting in the center of the ring stands Chunk Suckley. Instead of his normal suit and tie he is wearing a pair of khaki colored chinos and a black t-shirt that says "Please Hire Me SHOOT" on the front in bold golden letters. He still has his pencil-thin microphone in hand and is starting to look panicked at how this man is supposed to get into the ring.

"And they say that a HERO can SAVE US! I'm NOT GONNA STAND HERE AND WAAAAIIIIT"

Chad LEAPS from the wheelchair and begins to pull the bandages from off his face. He nudges the wheelchair out of the way and attempts to get into the ring but gets slightly caught up in the bandages from his head that are now dragging the floor. He gets the last bit of bandage from around his head and rolls into the ring, kicking what's left of the bandages off of his foot and leaving it on the floor outside of the ring.

Chad kips up onto his feet and does a triumphant one-armed pose to the crowd.

JASON JOHNSON: That can't be the way he was hoping that would go.

ERYK MASTERS: That had to be the way he expected that to go.

The music begins to settle down and the crowd goes wilder than anyone would have expected them to. Chad, seemingly surprised by the reaction, continues to play to the crowd for a moment longer before focusing his attention on Chunk.

CHUNK SUCKLEY: Chuck Suckley here, reporting in SHOOT Project.

CHAD KYLE: Don;t you mean reporting for SHOOT Project, Chuck?

CHUNK SUCKLEY: I do not.

Chad seems confused, but continues to roll with the punches. Chunk, sensing the moment is getting away from him, points to his T-Shirt and motions to the back for a moment.

CHUNK SUCKLEY: Anywho, I am here with SHOOT Project's resident MONSTER, Chad Kyle. Chad, you've been away for a little while, everyone has been wondering just how bad your injury is. Can you elaborate a little on what happened?

Chad Kyle attempts to take the microphone away from Chunk but can't seem to get a grip on the odd microphone. Chunk also is not allowing Chad to get a hand on the microphone. Chad instead leans forward, not used to being actually interviewed.

ERYK MASTERS: This is just uncomfortable.

CHAD KYLE: Well Chunk, that's a great question. I have to say, I really like your moustache. But anywho, I have to say that the injury really took it's toll on me. Jacond Mephisterd didn't just break my hands, but he broke the Chadster's spirit there for a moment. I wasn't even able to get on Spitter, and you guys all know how much I love that. But as you can see, I am still here. And Mephisterd? Well, let's just say that I told him that I couldn't be broken that easily. Or well, I would tell him that, but I can't seem to find him anywhere.

JASON JOHSNON: I will say, calling out someone who isn't here is a real pro-move by Chad.

CHUNK SUCKLEY: Well I'm sure that we will all be glad to see you back on Spitter and back in the backstage area. So Chad, now that you're back, what's next for the President of the People's Republic of Chad?

CHAD KYLE: First of all, that's the President of The Democratic People's Republic of Chad. They won their Independence back in 2006 in a bloody conflict with the Nation of RUSS. It was a bloodbath, but it was well worth it. So put some respect on their names.

Secondly, I think that everyone knows that me and PigPen have been training for this very day. He's taken the time out of his busy life to make sure that I am a killer. That I am ready to face whatever challenges that this world has to throw at me. What you see before you, Chunk is an all new Chad. There's about to be a ChadSplosian all over the SHOOT Project Roster and it all starts tonight. What's next for Tha Chadster? Well securing his first taste of that SHOOT Project gold is what's next. I don't care who I have to face in the ring, I don't care if its the Empire, I got a buddy PigPen that will get in the ring with me for those straps. I don't care if its Madi Seton, DarkSpade, or even that Jackwagon Lazarus that talked shit about my awesome Chadsperience Party.

Chad is back people! Chad is ready to go, and Tha Chadster is about to take the SHOOT Project by STORM!

Chad backs away from Chunk and begins to pander to the crowd. Somewhere in the back Pigpen is seething with rage at Chad acting a fool, but he's not here, so pander Chad must. Chunk attempts to call Chad's attention back towards the microphone but Chad appears to be done with the questions.

ERYK MASTERS: Short and to the point. My god, I think I actually liked that interview. I mean, had it gone on much longer I don't...

JASON JOHNSON: Hold that thought there, Eryk. I don't think we're done here.

Yeah Yeah Yeahs - Date With The Night (Official Music Video)

"I GOT A DATE WITH THE NIIIGHT!"

Boos begin to rain down from the arena as "Courageous" Curtis Rose begins to make his way down the ramp. He's all business, not paying any attention to the chorus of boos that rain down on him. Behind him, Alexander Vaka is slowly bringing up his tail, considerably less angry than his partner who storms the ring in front of him.

Chad, watching all this unfold is quick to get out of the ring. He said everything he had to say anyway, and the last time someone interrupted him speaking he ended up in a chair. Chad passes Curtis on the way up the ramp who pays no attention to Chad. As he passes Curtis, he runs into Vaka. Chad puts a hand up for a "High-Five" and Vaka gives him one. Chad, excited about the acknowledgement from the big guy.

Chunk is stunned. He looks behind him, trying to find a way to remove himself from the situation.

ERYK MASTERS: Now what could they possibly want?

JASON JOHNSON: Curtis Rose always has something to say. And after that barn-burner of a Pantheon match I'm going to assume that is what's on his mind now.

As Curtis slides into the ring, Chunk leans back against the opposite ropes. He seems to expect Rose to attack him, but Rose simply ignores him motioning to the fans as if they were cheering him on. As Vaka stands over the top to get into the ring he motions to the opposite side of the arena, fist in the air. The difference in ovation is noticeable as Vaka is cheered, but Rose is greeted by only boos. Curtis, assuming the cheers from the opposite side of the arena are for him turns to greet his "adoring fans" and the cheers quickly turn to boos again. The music dies down and Curtis focuses his sights on Chunk.

"COURAGEOUS" CURTIS ROSE: Good ole, Chunk Suckley. Chunk-a-saurus. The Chunkster.

Chunk Suckley gives a nervous laugh, attempting to pat Curtis on the shoulder while keeping the microphone as close to Curtis, while as far away from him as possible.

"COURAGEOUS" CURTIS ROSE: Chunk, we had a deal. I brought you to SHOOT Project to be our personal interview man. But here you are, giving your services out to just any ole Chad like some kind of Interview Slut!

The fans in attendance, who aren't quite sure of what to make of Chunk start a low chant of "Chunk" that starts to rise. Their indifference to Chunk far outweighed by their dislike of Curtis.

"COURAGEOUS" CURTIS ROSE: But you know what, I admire it. You saw something you wanted, a job, and you came out here to take it. That's a boss move, Chunk. A real pro-level tactic and I have to respect it. You may be asking yourself, why are we out here? Well, Chunk, we're out here to do the exact same.

You see, Axe and I told you at Zenith that we were the Number one Contenders to the Pantheon Championships. Now, I know a lot of you out there are asking "Curtis, if you guys are number one contenders, then why weren't you booked to fight for the titles on Reckoning Day" and to that I have a simple response for simple people.

Chunk Suckley, now convinced he is not going to get slapped, starts to get more comfortable back in his interview role. He adjusts his toupee, gives his moustache a single twirl and closes the distance between him and Curtis.

CHUNK SUCKLEY: That is an excellent question, Curtis and I am certain that you came down here to tell everyone exactly why you were left out!

"COURAGEOUS" CURTIS ROSE: We weren't left out, Chunk. Fear and Loathing are the SINGULAR number one contenders to the Pantheon Championships. With that being said, why in the world would we EVER agree to take our opportunity at the titles in a multi-team matchup? It's bad enough we are going to have to deal with whatever losers from the False Rose-Less Empire are hanging around at ringside or waiting in the wings to come down and try to get in our way, but to deal with two ADDITIONAL teams? That's madness. So, the simple answer, we just don't want to waste our well-earned opportunity on what you have all witnessed to be a clusterfuck of a title match!

Chunk nods his head and ta[s his index finger on his temple, motioning to the crowd Curtis' "impressive" intellect. The crowd seems less than enthused.

CHUNK SUCKLEY: So, now that you know that the Pantheon Championship is still in the stranglehold of the so-called Empire, tell us all how you feel about knowing you have to go against your former colleagues to win those coveted belts and bring them home to the people.

To this point in the exchange, Alex Vaka has been making himself comfortable in the corner of the ring, leaned against a turnbuckle. However, before Curtis Rose can answer Chunk's question he is interrupted by the big man who jostles him just out of the way enough to get a bit of the microphone on him.

ALEX "THE SILENT AXE" VAKA: Chunk, we just came down here to let everyone know that Fear and Loathing are still here. We are veterans of the Tag Scene, and with the Pantheon Championship race at his hottest, we just want to make it known that we are coming. We've put in the work, we've paid our dues, and it's far past time that Fear and Loathing wear SHOOT Gold around their waists.

The fans give a bit of a cheer as Alex, now fired up, makes the belt motion around his waist. Chunk, a little surprised that Alex said that much, moves the Microphone back to Rose.

"COURAGEOUS" CURTIS ROSE: We've more than paid our dues, Axe. We have been the most consistent part of the SHOOT Project Tag Team scene since the 2010s and we want...nay we DEMAND our due. We DEMAND to be seen as a legitimate threat to the Pantheon Championships. We are here to destroy what is left of the pitiful empire we left in our wake when we fired everyone and started our own Empire.

CHUNK SUCKLEY: Strong words, Curtis. But tell me, do you have a time-table for the people out there that cry out in the night for a Fear and Loathing Pantheon Run? When can the people expect for you to liberate the Pantheon Belts from the pretenders in the "Empire?" When exactly can the people hope to wake from this horrible nightmare?

Alex, who had been visibly trying to hold in a laugh since Chunk started his over-dramatic line of questioning to his partner finally lets out a slight chuckle.

ALEX "THE SILENT AXE" VAKA: Chunk. We're here. We're here every Zenith. We're here for every Special Event. We always have been. As soon as they step into the ring with us, that's when we start our takeover of the SHOOT Project Tag division and show the world just how valuable Fear and Loathing have been to SHOOT all these years.

Vaka turns from Chunk and starts to make his way out of the ring, expecting his music to start playing. That, for all intents and purposes, seemed like a good end point. Curtis, hands in the air moves back towards Chunk.

"COURAGEOUS" CURTIS ROSE: Chunk, thanks for being here, and thanks for bearing witness. The Empire is on notice. SHOOT Project is on notice. Tonight is the beginning of the end of our long journey to the top of the SHOOT Project Tag Divison!

Always having to get the final word, no matter how superfluous, Curtis Rose juts both fists in the air. Alex Vaka rolls his eyes as the music hits the speakers once more and the two make their way out of the ring and back up the ramp. We fade out to commercial break as we focus on the "Please Hire Me" T-shirt of Chunk Suckley.

After the Main Event

SAMANTHA COIL: Your winner of the match, and STILL...!!!

The crowd roars, not just for the result, but for the contest they've witnessed unfold.

SAMANTHA COIL: ...the SHOOT Project WORLD HEAVYWEIGHT CHAMPION...

Corey falls into the corner. Drained. Emotionally. Physically. Spiritually. He looks across the ring not at Dustin Kelser, the man, but at THUNDERWOLF, the living legend. The brother he never had. As Kelser stirs, holding onto the ropes to pull himself up, Lazarus is handed the World title.

SAMANTHA COIL: ...COREYYYYYY LAAAAZZZZARUSSSSS!!!

"In-A-Gadda-Da-Vida" cues up as the referee hoists Laz's arm up, the champion wincing from the sudden motion. He rips his arm away, nodding and patting the ref on the shoulder before he drops to a knee. In a grand and dramatic fashion, Corey slowly raises the World title over his head as bursts of pyrotechnics go off on the stage, unleashing a typhoon of gold confetti from the rafters.

ERYK MASTERS: It could have been either man's night, Jason. Any one strike or hold could have made all the difference in the world.

Ricky Tenet rushes out from the back, bandaged and limping from the war with Arthur Pleasant earlier. He rolls into the ring and hobbles to his father, being met with a firm embrace as Corey rises to his feet.

COREY LAZARUS: I did it...I did it, Ricky...

Ricky tightens his hold before releasing, wiping tears from the corners of his eyes as Dustin pulls himself to his feet in the corner. The gazes of the Last Vanguard lock as Wolf pushes himself out from the corner, holding his ribs and favoring his knee. Corey drops the World title on the mat and steps over it, extending his hand in the dead center of the ring.

COREY LAZARUS: ...no hard feelings...

JASON JOHNSON: Some things are more important than championship gold. Sportsmanship. Brotherhood. Respect.

Dustin eyes the hand of his partner, deaf to the cheers throughout the Pinnacle...

"L-A-Z!! L-A-Z!!"

"THUN-DER-WOLF!! THUN-DER-WOLF!!"

...and slaps Corey's hand away.

ERYK MASTERS: What the...?!

Corey nods, smiling. He reaches for Dustin, looking to hug him...but is met with a shove that sends him back a step.

ERYK MASTERS: What the hell is going on?!

The fans "ooooh" at the action, dumbfounded as Thunderwolf shakes his head, muttering under his breath. Kelser turns his back to Lazarus and rolls out of the ring, marching up the ramp, ignoring the hands that reach over the barricade.

JASON JOHNSON: Thunderwolf has just turned his back on his best friend!

Ricky collects the World title and throws it over his father's shoulder as Lazarus reaches the ropes, awe struck by Dustin's actions.

ERYK MASTERS: What the hell is going on between these two?!

Thunderwolf reaches the top of the ramp and turns, glaring down at Corey and Ricky in the ring. Lazarus can't even form words, his jaw hanging slack as Ricky tries to pull him away.

COREY LAZARUS: Why...what the hell, man...?

The cameras focus on Thunderwolf as he raises both middle fingers, spitting down the ramp, down toward Corey Lazarus.

THUNDERWOLF: Fuck. You.

Kelser shakes his head and turns, disappearing back through the curtain. As the show fades, Corey drops to his knees, dropping the World title to the mat as he and Ricky look on.