A few pyros and sweeping crowd shots open the show as usual this week, and after a very brief introduction from Mike Tenay and Byron Saxton we're brought back down to Earth by John Cena's music. Sigh. This guy again. Cena shows up on stage with his usual carefree smirk and salute, makes some one liner crack to Stu the cameraman and sprints on down to the ring.
Cena: "Oh man, is it good to be back in Kansas City?! The memories I have of this old town, man. Good times. And this arena, me and this building have a long history, but I guess you all know that, you were there. I'd love to take a trip down memory lane, but the history I have to talk about tonight is a little more recent. Lately IFW has been battling a small but devastating force known as the Shield. They're been rampaging through our roster, giving no explanations for their actions and making no demands. CM Punk quit, Randy Orton quit and Kurt Angle has been put on the shelf for the next week or two due to the actions of Dean Ambrose and Seth Rollins. So I ask you, who is left to fight alongside me? Who is back there in that locker room who isn't afraid to go to war? I know one man. A man who I let down. Last week-"
Neeeeoooooow. John Morrison's music hits. Mister Money In The Bank foregoes his slow motion entrance and doesn't have his briefcase with him, he's unusually serious this week. He wastes no time getting down to the ring to confront Cena head on.
Morrison: "You're seriously asking who will stand up to the Shield? You tell me, who was the one left alone in this ring last week to fight them both?" Cena: "John, I'm-" Morrison: "Shut up. I don't want to hear it. You think I need apologies from you? I don't need anything from you. I made a promise to Kurt Angle that I wouldn't cash in my title shot against him until absolutely necessary. Why? Because I respect the hell out of Kurt and I'm not going to take the cheap short cut. I don't know if you remember what it's like anymore, Cena, to be the rising star. Do you remember what it was like before you won that first world title? Do you remember the lengths you'd go to, the depths you'd stoop to, in order to win that gold? You'd have done anything. And if it were anyone else, I'd have cashed in a long time ago. I'd have cashed in on Punk, I'd have cashed in on Orton, and John, I sure as hell would have cashed in on you. This isn't about you and me. I couldn't give a crap about 'standing beside The Marine as he goes to war.' This is about doing what's right, and what's right is to put last week behind us and move on." Cena: "I couldn't have said it better myself. There's another battle coming, and this time you have my word, I'll be ready."
Just like last week Cena opened the show, and just like last week we're getting a big debut!
[youtube]JwTymmNSIhE[/youtube]
Cena and Morrison are stunned by the intrusion, watching on as Wade Barrett shows up on stage and flips a cape off his shoulders. He looks to be in a good mood, smiling as he walks down the ramp and climbs into the ring.
Tenay: "Unbelievable! Last week we saw the debut of AJ Styles, and this week it's Wade Barrett!" Saxton: "Wade Barrett looking to make a name for himself in IFW! This is unreal!"
Barrett is handed a microphone and takes his time to get a feel for his new home.
Barrett: "Well well, look who it is." Cena: "Wade. It's been a while." Barrett: "That it has! How have you been, John?" Cena: "To be honest, I've been better." Barrett: "That's great, that's great. Now, if you don't mind, I have some-" Morrison: "Let me guess, you have some bad news?" Barrett: "You could say that. I wouldn't, but then I wouldn't walk around here wearing fur coats and shades with diamonds on, so what do I know?" Cena: "It's nice to have you here Wade, but if you couldn't tell we're kinda in the middle of something." Barrett: "Indeed you are, and that's exactly why I'm here. Now, I know that I'm not the most - shall we say - trustworthy man in the world." Morrison: "Or even in the building." Cena: "Or in this ring." Barrett: "Precisely. And I'll admit that, in the past, I have had more in common with the Shield than either of you fine gentlemen. As you may remember." Cena: "How could I forget?" Barrett: "But I assure you, I'm on the right side this time. I came here to IFW to win the most prestigious title in wrestling, and to do that it would appear we need to get to the bottom of this Shield situation. So lads, for better or worse you're stuck with me." Cena: "I guess we don't have much of a choice. We're going to have to give you a chance." Morrison: "Why wait? Why don't you prove yourself tonight in a match with me against the Shield?" Cena: "Woah, are you sure you want to do that?" Morrison: "What's the worst that could happen? He leaves me alone in there to be attacked two on one? To be honest John, I'd rather take my chances with him than tag with you again."
Cena looks a little hurt, but accepts it.
Cena: "Maybe I deserve that, but you really should think about this. I agree that Barrett needs to prove himself, but let me take this match." Morrison: "I appreciate your work ethic John, but you don't need to be involved with everything. We can do this." Cena: "I'm just saying after the beating you took last week, you shouldn't be going out there." Morrison: "And whose fault is that?" Cena: "Mine! So let me put myself in the firing line this time, take the night off." Morrison: "Don't patronise me, John. I don't need to take the night off, I can make this decision for myself." Cena: "I'm not trying to-" Barrett: "Ladies, ladies, please. Don't fight over me. Look, Cena, he's right on this one. Take a back seat, rest up and prepare for the next battle, me and JoMo have this one."
Cena looks uncomfortable and a little offended. It's not often he isn't running the show.
Cena: "Alright. You guys want to do this, I wish you luck. But you guys will need to be on your game tonight, so I'll be out here at ringside to watch your backs."
With that, Cena leaves the ring and heads back up the ramp. Morrison and Barrett exchange a few words about Cena's insistance to be involved with everything, but the deal is done.
Backstage, AJ Styles is slowly making his way through the hallways. He looks up and notices a familiar face.
Styles: "Ric? Hey, Naitch!"
Ric Flair turns around from a conversation with a technician, Flair pats his shoulder as he leaves to strut over to AJ.
Flair: "AJ! How's it going brother?" Styles: "I need to talk to you." Flair: "Sure, sure. We have some catching up to do. Let's go get some drinks." Styles: "Drinks? Even for you it's a bit early. Aren't you supposed to be running this show?" Flair: "Not anymore, brother. Vince replaced me, got himself a new GM." Styles: "Who?" Flair: "Never mind that, I'm about to head out to the bars and live it up - woo! - like only the Nature Boy can!" Styles: "Ric. Ric! Stop. I need to find whoever is running this place. Can you just tell me who the new GM is?" Flair: "Listen, AJ. I've been thinking. It's about time old Naitch got back into the wrestling game. I've been away from the ring for too long! You and me, we worked pretty well together back in the day, didn't we?" Styles: "Yeah, we did." Flair: "So how about it? You, the next IFW champion and me, the greatest damn manager in the game." Styles: "Ric, don't take it personal. I'm just not looking for a manager right now." Flair: "You sure about that? You look pretty good in a suit! And you, my brother, you can party with the best of 'em!" Styles: "Listen, I appreciate it, but there are guys who could use your talents a lot more than I can." Flair: "Oh yeah? Like who?"
Styles looks around, a little frustrated that he's being held up with this. His eyes settle on a perfect candidate.
Styles: "Him. Good luck."
Styles slaps Flair on the shoulder and leaves. Flair turns around to see who Styles had gestured to, none other than MVP.
MVP: "Ric Flair. It's been too long."
MVP goes for a fist bump, but Flair was expecting a handshake so he grabs and shakes MVP's fist. MVP is a little confused, but Flair no-sells it.
Flair: "Montel. Yes it has." MVP: "Listen, I just checked the board and it looks like I'm not wrestling tonight. Now, I'm kinda new to this town, but I'm pretty sure you know a couple of places where a guy could pop some Cristal. Am I right?"
Flair smiles to himself and laughs a little.
Flair: "Brother, let me show you a thing or two."
MVP is happy to let the Nature Boy lead the way. I think this is the beginning of a beautiful friendship.
We finally get round to the first match of the night, and it's a big one. AJ Lee heads out first, wearing the womens championship belt, and is followed by her Nexettes. Kaitlyn and Aksana stand closest, with newbies Taeler Hendrix and Ivelisse Velez following behind. She reaches the ring and the girls take positions on the floor. Gail Kim is next out, taking a brief pause before sprinting down the ramp and laying Aksana out with a big right hand before rolling in. The Nexettes try to jump Gail, but she knocks Taeler and Ivelisse down before AJ attacks her from behind.
Match 1 - AJ Lee (w/ Nexettes) v Gail Kim Womens championship AJ lays the boots to her challenger and continues to build heat for the first couple of minutes. Gail mounts a comeback but is cut off with some distractions from ringside. Kaitlyn stands on the apron while Taeler and Ivelisse distract the referee, leaving Aksana open to attack Gail. Gail sees it coming and runs Aksana into Kaitlyn, knocking her down by the base of the ramp, then tosses Aksana through the ropes to the floor too. Taeler and Ivelisse check on Kaitlyn, leaving all four Nexettes in the same place, prone to a big torpedo dive from Gail that lays them all out. Gail stands up and yells at the fallen group, only to be speared into the ring steps by AJ. The match continues for another couple of minutes, but despite her best efforts the numbers game has taken its toll and Gail falls victim to the black widow. Winner: AJ Lee, to retain the womens championship
AJ is handed her belt and she kneels in the ring next to Gail clutching it and laughing maniacally.
We head backstage to the interview area where Renee Young is standing by.
Renee: "Ladies and gentlemen, my guest at this time is Paul London."
London appears on camera, looking a little dejected.
Renee: "Paul, I don't know how to put this nicely...you've had a bad spell since losing your silver championship to Ezekiel Jackson." London: "Say it like it is Renee, I'm on a losing streak." Renee: "What do you think is causing this, and what do you plan to do to change your fortunes?" London: "I can't blame anyone but myself. Don't get me wrong, there's no shame in losing to Ezekiel Jackson, everyone does it, but I spent too long chasing that title to lose it so quickly. I don't know what's missing Renee, but something just doesn't feel right." Renee: "If you don't mind me saying, Paul, it seems that your luck changed right around the time Shawn Michaels' HeartBreak Krew imploded and Shawn retired." London: "You may just be right. I lost a lot of good friends in that whole deal. It seems like up until now I've always had a purpose, you know? Somewhere to belong, something to aim for. But now? I don't know what I'm doing anymore." Renee: "Why don't you-" London: "Look, Renee, I appreciate you taking the interest, but I don't think this is the place for me right now. I'll talk to you some other time."
London leaves the set, Renee stands awkwardly for a moment before throwing back to the announce team.
Back in the arena, John Morrison makes his entrance without his money in the bank briefcase, and is soon joined by the debuting Wade Barrett. They share a few words in the ring, talking over some last minute game plans, until Dean Ambrose and Seth Rollins can reach the ring. When all four men are set to begin, John Cena's music hits and the Cenation leader heads down the ramp. Morrison and Barrett turn to look at their backup, giving the Shield and opening to attack.
Match 2 - John Morrison & Wade Barrett v Shield Shield build heat early on, until Morrison can make a hot tag. Barrett explodes with a fiery comeback, looking great in his first appearance, until the illegal Ambrose storms the ring to make it a two on one. Morrison starts to climb in to even the score, but the referee pushes him out. Cena has had enough, he slides into the ring to make the save, but the referee turns his attention from Morrison to Cena to prevent a disqualification. The Shield have weakened Barrett enough to double team Morrison safely, dumping him to the outside while Cena backs away at the threat of DQ. Barrett launches into a bullhammer elbow to Ambrose, laying him out flat, but Rollins attacks with a boot to the midsection and follows up with the curb stomp for the pinfall victory. Winners: Shield
Cena slides in as the bell rings, but the Shield is already making their escape. Once again they've gotten one over on the IFW elite, something that causes Cena to do his angry face at them from the ring.
We head backstage now to a dressing room where Brian Kendrick barges in on Heath Slater, Jinder Mahal and David Otunga.
Kendrick: "Hey guys! What's happening? Great. Listen, I have a little business for us."
Slater and his boys look at each other awkwardly, Otunga and Mahal gesture for Slater to say something.
Slater: "Brian, always nice to see you. I, uh, I have something to tell you." Kendrick: "Can it wait? This is a really great deal. We're gonna end Langston's streak, right? All we need to do is have Otunga run interference while you and Jinder have the ref distracted an-" Slater: "Brian! Calm down. It sounds like a good plan, I'm sure it'll work, but...we're not the guys to do it with you." Kendrick: "What are you talking about? We're buddies!" Slater: "We are...but we all have something in common, see? And you? You don't." Kendrick: "What are you trying to say?" Otunga: "Heath, may I? Mr Kendrick, Mr Slater isn't trying to say anything, he is stating it quite clearly. You are an acquaintance to us, nothing more. As such, you are no longer welcome in this dressing room without prior arrangements." Kendrick: "I have to make an appointment to see my own boys?" Otunga: "We are not your boys, Mr Kendrick, we are, in fact, boys of our own." Kendrick: "Heath, dude, I can't believe you're doing this to me!" Slater: "It's nothing personal Brian. I just see myself more as a leader, which means there's no room here for you. But hey, you have a great plan set up to make it big! Go make it happen, Tiger. I believe in you."
Kendrick looks heartbroken, but quickly masks his sadness with anger.
Kendrick: "You don't do this to me. You're nothing, you don't get to make decisions like that. You'll regret this, I promise you that."
Kendrick leaves the room, and bumps - literally - into silver champion Ezekiel Jackson.
Kendrick: "Woah, watch where you're going! Oh, hey Zeke!"
Jackson sighs deeply, not wanting anything to do with this.
Jackson: "Hello Brian." Kendrick: "I was just talking to Slater - great guy - and he was saying he thinks he can beat you. Can you believe that?" Jackson: "No." Kendrick: "Well I tried putting him straight, I told him he was way out of line, but I just don't think he got it." Jackson: "Mm-hm." Kendrick: "Now, I think we could arrange a little match between you two, so you could show him exactly how wrong he is. What do you say? Now, before you say yes, I was thinking. Obviously you should put the title on the line against him. I mean, can you imagine? His little face as you squish him into the mat, crushing his dreams and taking away his moment? It would be the best." Jackson: "Are you done?" Kendrick: "Hey, Zeke, I'm just trying to help a brother out. I mean, a champion can't have people saying that kind of thing about them. But don't you worry, I've got your back."
Jackson, clearly not buying it, simply brushes past the tiny man and makes his exit. Kendrick will have to come up with another plan.
Back to the ring now, where Justin Gabriel is limbering up with his foot on the top rope. Big E Langston heads out through a cloud of chalk dust, stomping menacingly down to his prey.
Match 3 - Big E Langston v Justin Gabriel Gabriel launches into a quick assault from the bell, but is swatted away. The cruiserweight keeps the pace up and makes a few openings for himself out of acrobatic counters to power moves, but in the end he's caught and flattened with the big ending. Winner: Big E Langston
Once again, Langston's arm is raised in victory but he remains expressionless.
To the back! AJ Styles has finally found the door marked "Commissioner," he knocks and enters. Styles is surprised to find that the new IFW authority figure is none other than William Regal, who greets AJ with a smile, and stands to offer a handshake.
Regal: "Ah, Mr Styles, I was hoping to bump into you. How are you settling in?" Styles: "That's why I'm here. There's something I need you to do for me."
Sensing his handshake isn't going to be accepted, Regal shuffles awkwardly, adjusting his suit and turning his back to AJ to pour some tea from a teapot.
Regal: "Mr Styles, you've been a very fortunate man to be where you are right now. I understand you were granted a championship contest as a signing bonus, is that correct?" Styles: "Yeah." Regal: "Then I dare say, you are in no position to make demands. I suggest you take what you've been given and be grateful for it. Sugar?" Styles: "What did you call me?" Regal: "I called you Mr Styles. Do you take sugar? In your tea." Styles: "I don't drink tea."
Regal is taken aback at this revelation. He frowns a little as he takes his seat.
Regal: "I suppose I shouldn't be surprised. A man of your...ahem, bedraggled image?"
Styles puts his hands on the desk and leans over towards Regal.
Styles: "Listen to me. You and me don't need to have a problem. Just keep John Cena the hell out of my business, and we're good." Regal: "You and I. And I know you're good, Mr Styles, but I like to think I still have something in the tank myself. So believe me when I say, you are the last person who wants to create a problem. Do I make myself clear, Sunshine?"
Styles no-sells the threat, but it's clearly found its mark. Not wanting to let Regal have the last word, Styles picks up Regal's little china teacup, takes a big drink and swishes it around his mouth a little before spitting it onto the floor.
Styles: "I still prefer coffee."
AJ deliberately carelessly tosses the cup back onto its saucer in a way that will spill the rest of the drink. Regal is quick to pick it back up, but the damage is done. Instead of looking angry at the disrespect, Regal appears to have somewhat enjoyed the encounter.
We're back to the arena for the final time tonight, as a red pyro shoots from the lighting rig to the omniviewer, setting off a series of bigger pyro blasts. Team 3D head out to the stage, bumping fists and then heading down to the ring. They look all fired up and ready for the match. The next entrance is the last ever appearance of the World's Greatest Tag Team as a unit, as the returning Charlie Haas will be retiring after tonight, win or lose. He and Shelton Benjamin proudly wear their hard-earned, often-defended belts as they head down to meet their challengers, who respectfully step back to allow the champions to pose on the turnbuckles.
Match 4 - World's Greatest Tag Team v Team 3D Tag team championship This one gets good time, somewhere between 15 and 20 minutes, with the champions playing faces. They get some shine early on, displaying their superior athletic ability and grappling skill, but the wily veterans take the momentum when Shelton is delivering ten punches the corner and Ray walks across the apron to pull him down by the trunks. The referee warns Bully not to interfere again, but the damage is done. 3D build heat for a couple of minutes, until Shelton makes his own comeback and hits a couple of high impact moves, only to be cut off with a thumb to the eye. More heat, including the wassup headbutt, until Shelton flips down from a vertical suplex to land on his feet, throws a superkick to Devon that is caught, and thrown into the dragon whip. Benjamin dives to tag Haas, who explodes like a Haas of fire into the ring, laying out both Bully and Devon in turn with various shots. Haas knocks Bully to the outside and applies the Haas of pain on Devon in the middle of the ring, cranking the legs up high. Devon is forced to tap, but Bully makes the save just in time. Ray lays the boots to Haas until Benjamin can save his partner, delivering forearms to knock Ray back into a corner and then some boots to bring him down. Benjamin turns right into a thrust spinebuster from Devon, who then stalks Haas looking for the 3D. Haas is dazed as he turns around, but manages to see the move coming and kicks Devon to block it, then charges Ray with a clothesline. Haas hits a double-leg takedown to Devon and starts to re-apply the Haas of pain, but Bully grabs him from behind with the full nelson, looking for the Bubba bomb. Haas counters with a victory roll, but Bully is the illegal man. Devon attacks Haas while he's in the pinning cradle, pulling him up into the standing head scissors for the piledriver. Shelton nails Devon with a superkick out of nowhere, which Haas quickly follows up by hanging Devon on the top rope for Shelton to hit the leapfrog body guillotine. The champions look to take Bully out of the picture with wrestling's greatest finisher, a double back suplex, but Ray fights out, blocking the move until Devon can recover. Devon knocks Haas to the mat, then lifts Benjamin into a back suplex lift for Bully to finish off with a neckbreaker. Shelton rolls to the outside to sell, while Haas stumbles to his feet right into the 3D. Devon covers for one, two, three. Winners: Team 3D, to become the new IFW tag team champions!
And with that, the most successful champions in IFW history have been dethroned. Team 3D are now 25 time tag team champions, but show a rare display of respect for their adversaries as they leave the ring holding their new belts high in the air instead of inflicting further damage. Haas and Benjamin slowly recover, realise what's happened and share their disappointment. They're given a moment before the show ends, for appreciation of a legendary title reign and the end of Charlie Haas' career.
A few pyros and sweeping crowd shots open the show as usual this week, and after a very brief introduction from Mike Tenay and Byron Saxton we're brought back down to Earth by John Cena's music. Sigh. This guy again. Cena shows up on stage with his usual carefree smirk and salute, makes some one liner crack to Stu the cameraman and sprints on down to the ring.
Cena: "Oh man, is it good to be back in Kansas City?! The memories I have of this old town, man. Good times. And this arena, me and this building have a long history, but I guess you all know that, you were there. I'd love to take a trip down memory lane, but the history I have to talk about tonight is a little more recent. Lately IFW has been battling a small but devastating force known as the Shield. They're been rampaging through our roster, giving no explanations for their actions and making no demands. CM Punk quit, Randy Orton quit and Kurt Angle has been put on the shelf for the next week or two due to the actions of Dean Ambrose and Seth Rollins. So I ask you, who is left to fight alongside me? Who is back there in that locker room who isn't afraid to go to war? I know one man. A man who I let down. Last week-"
Neeeeoooooow. John Morrison's music hits. Mister Money In The Bank foregoes his slow motion entrance and doesn't have his briefcase with him, he's unusually serious this week. He wastes no time getting down to the ring to confront Cena head on.
Morrison: "You're seriously asking who will stand up to the Shield? You tell me, who was the one left alone in this ring last week to fight them both?"
Cena: "John, I'm-"
Morrison: "Shut up. I don't want to hear it. You think I need apologies from you? I don't need anything from you. I made a promise to Kurt Angle that I wouldn't cash in my title shot against him until absolutely necessary. Why? Because I respect the hell out of Kurt and I'm not going to take the cheap short cut. I don't know if you remember what it's like anymore, Cena, to be the rising star. Do you remember what it was like before you won that first world title? Do you remember the lengths you'd go to, the depths you'd stoop to, in order to win that gold? You'd have done anything. And if it were anyone else, I'd have cashed in a long time ago. I'd have cashed in on Punk, I'd have cashed in on Orton, and John, I sure as hell would have cashed in on you. This isn't about you and me. I couldn't give a crap about 'standing beside The Marine as he goes to war.' This is about doing what's right, and what's right is to put last week behind us and move on."
Cena: "I couldn't have said it better myself. There's another battle coming, and this time you have my word, I'll be ready."
Just like last week Cena opened the show, and just like last week we're getting a big debut!
[youtube]JwTymmNSIhE[/youtube]
Cena and Morrison are stunned by the intrusion, watching on as Wade Barrett shows up on stage and flips a cape off his shoulders. He looks to be in a good mood, smiling as he walks down the ramp and climbs into the ring.
Tenay: "Unbelievable! Last week we saw the debut of AJ Styles, and this week it's Wade Barrett!"
Saxton: "Wade Barrett looking to make a name for himself in IFW! This is unreal!"
Barrett is handed a microphone and takes his time to get a feel for his new home.
Barrett: "Well well, look who it is."
Cena: "Wade. It's been a while."
Barrett: "That it has! How have you been, John?"
Cena: "To be honest, I've been better."
Barrett: "That's great, that's great. Now, if you don't mind, I have some-"
Morrison: "Let me guess, you have some bad news?"
Barrett: "You could say that. I wouldn't, but then I wouldn't walk around here wearing fur coats and shades with diamonds on, so what do I know?"
Cena: "It's nice to have you here Wade, but if you couldn't tell we're kinda in the middle of something."
Barrett: "Indeed you are, and that's exactly why I'm here. Now, I know that I'm not the most - shall we say - trustworthy man in the world."
Morrison: "Or even in the building."
Cena: "Or in this ring."
Barrett: "Precisely. And I'll admit that, in the past, I have had more in common with the Shield than either of you fine gentlemen. As you may remember."
Cena: "How could I forget?"
Barrett: "But I assure you, I'm on the right side this time. I came here to IFW to win the most prestigious title in wrestling, and to do that it would appear we need to get to the bottom of this Shield situation. So lads, for better or worse you're stuck with me."
Cena: "I guess we don't have much of a choice. We're going to have to give you a chance."
Morrison: "Why wait? Why don't you prove yourself tonight in a match with me against the Shield?"
Cena: "Woah, are you sure you want to do that?"
Morrison: "What's the worst that could happen? He leaves me alone in there to be attacked two on one? To be honest John, I'd rather take my chances with him than tag with you again."
Cena looks a little hurt, but accepts it.
Cena: "Maybe I deserve that, but you really should think about this. I agree that Barrett needs to prove himself, but let me take this match."
Morrison: "I appreciate your work ethic John, but you don't need to be involved with everything. We can do this."
Cena: "I'm just saying after the beating you took last week, you shouldn't be going out there."
Morrison: "And whose fault is that?"
Cena: "Mine! So let me put myself in the firing line this time, take the night off."
Morrison: "Don't patronise me, John. I don't need to take the night off, I can make this decision for myself."
Cena: "I'm not trying to-"
Barrett: "Ladies, ladies, please. Don't fight over me. Look, Cena, he's right on this one. Take a back seat, rest up and prepare for the next battle, me and JoMo have this one."
Cena looks uncomfortable and a little offended. It's not often he isn't running the show.
Cena: "Alright. You guys want to do this, I wish you luck. But you guys will need to be on your game tonight, so I'll be out here at ringside to watch your backs."
With that, Cena leaves the ring and heads back up the ramp. Morrison and Barrett exchange a few words about Cena's insistance to be involved with everything, but the deal is done.
Backstage, AJ Styles is slowly making his way through the hallways. He looks up and notices a familiar face.
Styles: "Ric? Hey, Naitch!"
Ric Flair turns around from a conversation with a technician, Flair pats his shoulder as he leaves to strut over to AJ.
Flair: "AJ! How's it going brother?"
Styles: "I need to talk to you."
Flair: "Sure, sure. We have some catching up to do. Let's go get some drinks."
Styles: "Drinks? Even for you it's a bit early. Aren't you supposed to be running this show?"
Flair: "Not anymore, brother. Vince replaced me, got himself a new GM."
Styles: "Who?"
Flair: "Never mind that, I'm about to head out to the bars and live it up - woo! - like only the Nature Boy can!"
Styles: "Ric. Ric! Stop. I need to find whoever is running this place. Can you just tell me who the new GM is?"
Flair: "Listen, AJ. I've been thinking. It's about time old Naitch got back into the wrestling game. I've been away from the ring for too long! You and me, we worked pretty well together back in the day, didn't we?"
Styles: "Yeah, we did."
Flair: "So how about it? You, the next IFW champion and me, the greatest damn manager in the game."
Styles: "Ric, don't take it personal. I'm just not looking for a manager right now."
Flair: "You sure about that? You look pretty good in a suit! And you, my brother, you can party with the best of 'em!"
Styles: "Listen, I appreciate it, but there are guys who could use your talents a lot more than I can."
Flair: "Oh yeah? Like who?"
Styles looks around, a little frustrated that he's being held up with this. His eyes settle on a perfect candidate.
Styles: "Him. Good luck."
Styles slaps Flair on the shoulder and leaves. Flair turns around to see who Styles had gestured to, none other than MVP.
MVP: "Ric Flair. It's been too long."
MVP goes for a fist bump, but Flair was expecting a handshake so he grabs and shakes MVP's fist. MVP is a little confused, but Flair no-sells it.
Flair: "Montel. Yes it has."
MVP: "Listen, I just checked the board and it looks like I'm not wrestling tonight. Now, I'm kinda new to this town, but I'm pretty sure you know a couple of places where a guy could pop some Cristal. Am I right?"
Flair smiles to himself and laughs a little.
Flair: "Brother, let me show you a thing or two."
MVP is happy to let the Nature Boy lead the way. I think this is the beginning of a beautiful friendship.
We finally get round to the first match of the night, and it's a big one. AJ Lee heads out first, wearing the womens championship belt, and is followed by her Nexettes. Kaitlyn and Aksana stand closest, with newbies Taeler Hendrix and Ivelisse Velez following behind. She reaches the ring and the girls take positions on the floor. Gail Kim is next out, taking a brief pause before sprinting down the ramp and laying Aksana out with a big right hand before rolling in. The Nexettes try to jump Gail, but she knocks Taeler and Ivelisse down before AJ attacks her from behind.
Match 1 - AJ Lee (w/ Nexettes) v Gail Kim
Womens championship
AJ lays the boots to her challenger and continues to build heat for the first couple of minutes. Gail mounts a comeback but is cut off with some distractions from ringside. Kaitlyn stands on the apron while Taeler and Ivelisse distract the referee, leaving Aksana open to attack Gail. Gail sees it coming and runs Aksana into Kaitlyn, knocking her down by the base of the ramp, then tosses Aksana through the ropes to the floor too. Taeler and Ivelisse check on Kaitlyn, leaving all four Nexettes in the same place, prone to a big torpedo dive from Gail that lays them all out. Gail stands up and yells at the fallen group, only to be speared into the ring steps by AJ. The match continues for another couple of minutes, but despite her best efforts the numbers game has taken its toll and Gail falls victim to the black widow.
Winner: AJ Lee, to retain the womens championship
AJ is handed her belt and she kneels in the ring next to Gail clutching it and laughing maniacally.
We head backstage to the interview area where Renee Young is standing by.
Renee: "Ladies and gentlemen, my guest at this time is Paul London."
London appears on camera, looking a little dejected.
Renee: "Paul, I don't know how to put this nicely...you've had a bad spell since losing your silver championship to Ezekiel Jackson."
London: "Say it like it is Renee, I'm on a losing streak."
Renee: "What do you think is causing this, and what do you plan to do to change your fortunes?"
London: "I can't blame anyone but myself. Don't get me wrong, there's no shame in losing to Ezekiel Jackson, everyone does it, but I spent too long chasing that title to lose it so quickly. I don't know what's missing Renee, but something just doesn't feel right."
Renee: "If you don't mind me saying, Paul, it seems that your luck changed right around the time Shawn Michaels' HeartBreak Krew imploded and Shawn retired."
London: "You may just be right. I lost a lot of good friends in that whole deal. It seems like up until now I've always had a purpose, you know? Somewhere to belong, something to aim for. But now? I don't know what I'm doing anymore."
Renee: "Why don't you-"
London: "Look, Renee, I appreciate you taking the interest, but I don't think this is the place for me right now. I'll talk to you some other time."
London leaves the set, Renee stands awkwardly for a moment before throwing back to the announce team.
Back in the arena, John Morrison makes his entrance without his money in the bank briefcase, and is soon joined by the debuting Wade Barrett. They share a few words in the ring, talking over some last minute game plans, until Dean Ambrose and Seth Rollins can reach the ring. When all four men are set to begin, John Cena's music hits and the Cenation leader heads down the ramp. Morrison and Barrett turn to look at their backup, giving the Shield and opening to attack.
Match 2 - John Morrison & Wade Barrett v Shield
Shield build heat early on, until Morrison can make a hot tag. Barrett explodes with a fiery comeback, looking great in his first appearance, until the illegal Ambrose storms the ring to make it a two on one. Morrison starts to climb in to even the score, but the referee pushes him out. Cena has had enough, he slides into the ring to make the save, but the referee turns his attention from Morrison to Cena to prevent a disqualification. The Shield have weakened Barrett enough to double team Morrison safely, dumping him to the outside while Cena backs away at the threat of DQ. Barrett launches into a bullhammer elbow to Ambrose, laying him out flat, but Rollins attacks with a boot to the midsection and follows up with the curb stomp for the pinfall victory.
Winners: Shield
Cena slides in as the bell rings, but the Shield is already making their escape. Once again they've gotten one over on the IFW elite, something that causes Cena to do his angry face at them from the ring.
We head backstage now to a dressing room where Brian Kendrick barges in on Heath Slater, Jinder Mahal and David Otunga.
Kendrick: "Hey guys! What's happening? Great. Listen, I have a little business for us."
Slater and his boys look at each other awkwardly, Otunga and Mahal gesture for Slater to say something.
Slater: "Brian, always nice to see you. I, uh, I have something to tell you."
Kendrick: "Can it wait? This is a really great deal. We're gonna end Langston's streak, right? All we need to do is have Otunga run interference while you and Jinder have the ref distracted an-"
Slater: "Brian! Calm down. It sounds like a good plan, I'm sure it'll work, but...we're not the guys to do it with you."
Kendrick: "What are you talking about? We're buddies!"
Slater: "We are...but we all have something in common, see? And you? You don't."
Kendrick: "What are you trying to say?"
Otunga: "Heath, may I? Mr Kendrick, Mr Slater isn't trying to say anything, he is stating it quite clearly. You are an acquaintance to us, nothing more. As such, you are no longer welcome in this dressing room without prior arrangements."
Kendrick: "I have to make an appointment to see my own boys?"
Otunga: "We are not your boys, Mr Kendrick, we are, in fact, boys of our own."
Kendrick: "Heath, dude, I can't believe you're doing this to me!"
Slater: "It's nothing personal Brian. I just see myself more as a leader, which means there's no room here for you. But hey, you have a great plan set up to make it big! Go make it happen, Tiger. I believe in you."
Kendrick looks heartbroken, but quickly masks his sadness with anger.
Kendrick: "You don't do this to me. You're nothing, you don't get to make decisions like that. You'll regret this, I promise you that."
Kendrick leaves the room, and bumps - literally - into silver champion Ezekiel Jackson.
Kendrick: "Woah, watch where you're going! Oh, hey Zeke!"
Jackson sighs deeply, not wanting anything to do with this.
Jackson: "Hello Brian."
Kendrick: "I was just talking to Slater - great guy - and he was saying he thinks he can beat you. Can you believe that?"
Jackson: "No."
Kendrick: "Well I tried putting him straight, I told him he was way out of line, but I just don't think he got it."
Jackson: "Mm-hm."
Kendrick: "Now, I think we could arrange a little match between you two, so you could show him exactly how wrong he is. What do you say? Now, before you say yes, I was thinking. Obviously you should put the title on the line against him. I mean, can you imagine? His little face as you squish him into the mat, crushing his dreams and taking away his moment? It would be the best."
Jackson: "Are you done?"
Kendrick: "Hey, Zeke, I'm just trying to help a brother out. I mean, a champion can't have people saying that kind of thing about them. But don't you worry, I've got your back."
Jackson, clearly not buying it, simply brushes past the tiny man and makes his exit. Kendrick will have to come up with another plan.
Back to the ring now, where Justin Gabriel is limbering up with his foot on the top rope. Big E Langston heads out through a cloud of chalk dust, stomping menacingly down to his prey.
Match 3 - Big E Langston v Justin Gabriel
Gabriel launches into a quick assault from the bell, but is swatted away. The cruiserweight keeps the pace up and makes a few openings for himself out of acrobatic counters to power moves, but in the end he's caught and flattened with the big ending.
Winner: Big E Langston
Once again, Langston's arm is raised in victory but he remains expressionless.
To the back! AJ Styles has finally found the door marked "Commissioner," he knocks and enters. Styles is surprised to find that the new IFW authority figure is none other than William Regal, who greets AJ with a smile, and stands to offer a handshake.
Regal: "Ah, Mr Styles, I was hoping to bump into you. How are you settling in?"
Styles: "That's why I'm here. There's something I need you to do for me."
Sensing his handshake isn't going to be accepted, Regal shuffles awkwardly, adjusting his suit and turning his back to AJ to pour some tea from a teapot.
Regal: "Mr Styles, you've been a very fortunate man to be where you are right now. I understand you were granted a championship contest as a signing bonus, is that correct?"
Styles: "Yeah."
Regal: "Then I dare say, you are in no position to make demands. I suggest you take what you've been given and be grateful for it. Sugar?"
Styles: "What did you call me?"
Regal: "I called you Mr Styles. Do you take sugar? In your tea."
Styles: "I don't drink tea."
Regal is taken aback at this revelation. He frowns a little as he takes his seat.
Regal: "I suppose I shouldn't be surprised. A man of your...ahem, bedraggled image?"
Styles puts his hands on the desk and leans over towards Regal.
Styles: "Listen to me. You and me don't need to have a problem. Just keep John Cena the hell out of my business, and we're good."
Regal: "You and I. And I know you're good, Mr Styles, but I like to think I still have something in the tank myself. So believe me when I say, you are the last person who wants to create a problem. Do I make myself clear, Sunshine?"
Styles no-sells the threat, but it's clearly found its mark. Not wanting to let Regal have the last word, Styles picks up Regal's little china teacup, takes a big drink and swishes it around his mouth a little before spitting it onto the floor.
Styles: "I still prefer coffee."
AJ deliberately carelessly tosses the cup back onto its saucer in a way that will spill the rest of the drink. Regal is quick to pick it back up, but the damage is done. Instead of looking angry at the disrespect, Regal appears to have somewhat enjoyed the encounter.
We're back to the arena for the final time tonight, as a red pyro shoots from the lighting rig to the omniviewer, setting off a series of bigger pyro blasts. Team 3D head out to the stage, bumping fists and then heading down to the ring. They look all fired up and ready for the match. The next entrance is the last ever appearance of the World's Greatest Tag Team as a unit, as the returning Charlie Haas will be retiring after tonight, win or lose. He and Shelton Benjamin proudly wear their hard-earned, often-defended belts as they head down to meet their challengers, who respectfully step back to allow the champions to pose on the turnbuckles.
Match 4 - World's Greatest Tag Team v Team 3D
Tag team championship
This one gets good time, somewhere between 15 and 20 minutes, with the champions playing faces. They get some shine early on, displaying their superior athletic ability and grappling skill, but the wily veterans take the momentum when Shelton is delivering ten punches the corner and Ray walks across the apron to pull him down by the trunks. The referee warns Bully not to interfere again, but the damage is done. 3D build heat for a couple of minutes, until Shelton makes his own comeback and hits a couple of high impact moves, only to be cut off with a thumb to the eye.
More heat, including the wassup headbutt, until Shelton flips down from a vertical suplex to land on his feet, throws a superkick to Devon that is caught, and thrown into the dragon whip. Benjamin dives to tag Haas, who explodes like a Haas of fire into the ring, laying out both Bully and Devon in turn with various shots. Haas knocks Bully to the outside and applies the Haas of pain on Devon in the middle of the ring, cranking the legs up high. Devon is forced to tap, but Bully makes the save just in time. Ray lays the boots to Haas until Benjamin can save his partner, delivering forearms to knock Ray back into a corner and then some boots to bring him down.
Benjamin turns right into a thrust spinebuster from Devon, who then stalks Haas looking for the 3D. Haas is dazed as he turns around, but manages to see the move coming and kicks Devon to block it, then charges Ray with a clothesline. Haas hits a double-leg takedown to Devon and starts to re-apply the Haas of pain, but Bully grabs him from behind with the full nelson, looking for the Bubba bomb. Haas counters with a victory roll, but Bully is the illegal man. Devon attacks Haas while he's in the pinning cradle, pulling him up into the standing head scissors for the piledriver. Shelton nails Devon with a superkick out of nowhere, which Haas quickly follows up by hanging Devon on the top rope for Shelton to hit the leapfrog body guillotine.
The champions look to take Bully out of the picture with wrestling's greatest finisher, a double back suplex, but Ray fights out, blocking the move until Devon can recover. Devon knocks Haas to the mat, then lifts Benjamin into a back suplex lift for Bully to finish off with a neckbreaker. Shelton rolls to the outside to sell, while Haas stumbles to his feet right into the 3D. Devon covers for one, two, three.
Winners: Team 3D, to become the new IFW tag team champions!
And with that, the most successful champions in IFW history have been dethroned. Team 3D are now 25 time tag team champions, but show a rare display of respect for their adversaries as they leave the ring holding their new belts high in the air instead of inflicting further damage. Haas and Benjamin slowly recover, realise what's happened and share their disappointment. They're given a moment before the show ends, for appreciation of a legendary title reign and the end of Charlie Haas' career.