SEGMENT


Pyro shot off around the stage inside the Little Caesars Arena.

Nigel McGuinness: This crowd is already on fire in Detroit, Michigan tonight!

Mauro Ranallo: Get ready folks… It’s time for Warfare!

AWEEEEEESOOOMMMEEEE!

Mauro Ranallo: Oh, great.

Nigel McGuinness: This is great! There’s no better way to start Warfare than with the EBWF World Champion.

The crowd was booing as The Miz came from behind the curtain, followed by Mickie James and Paul Heyman. Heyman was holding the World Championship and lifted it high above his head as Miz pointed out toward the audience with his usual entrance.

Mauro Ranallo: We found out just last week that there is no number one contender for Miz at Fallout…

Nigel McGuinness: And Miz shouldn’t even have to defend the EBWF World Championship if the winner of the Sole Survivor match can’t compete. This is ridiculous!

Mauro Ranallo: We’re supposed to find out here tonight how the Fallout main event will proceed. But we’ve had absolutely no updates all week.

Nigel McGuinness: Let’s see what The Miz has to say.

Miz had gotten into the ring, delighting in the boos from the crowd. He took a microphone and returned to the center of the ring with Mickie and Heyman standing behind him.

The Miz: Really?

The boos turned nuclear and the Miz grinned.

The Miz: You’re booing me because I speak the truth, and that’s the problem with the world today. Nobody wants to hear the truth. I earned the EBWF World Championship. I have been the single biggest contributor in this company for years…

The crowd continued to boo and Miz rolled his eyes.

The Miz: You can’t deny it! You don’t have to like it, but you can’t deny it! Explain to me how EBWF, in less than 10 weeks, has lost both of the number one contenders for the top two titles in this company? Explain to me how Renee Young talked to Wes Ikeda last week and he says he has no idea who is going to face me at Fallout. What’s that tell you, Wes? There’s nobody! There’s nobody in EBWF that can beat me. You know it! It keeps you up at night. So whatever announcement you have? I wanted to come out here and get a front row seat. I wanted to be among the very first to hear it. It honestly wouldn’t surprise me if the only thing you could come up with was to lace up your own boots and…

The lights in the arena dimmed and strobes started to go off on the stage. The tron went dark, as a smoke machine laid fog across the entrance, and an unrelenting drum beat and guitar riff filled the arena.

“100 miles an hour down a dead in road
I need a little Detroit in my soul
Every night’s hotel a different name
It’s part of the game…”

The crowd was coming alive, and Miz watched the arena as they moved to their feet. Miz continued to glare at the spectacle on stage as the music continued.

“Everybody wants to be just like me
Fame, the fortune, live the fantasy
I gotta get back where the light was pretty
Rockin’ all the way to the Motor City”

The tron lit up.

MOTOR CITY
MOTOR CITY
MOTOR CITY



The crowd erupted.

Mauro Ranallo: WHAT?!

Nigel McGuinness: Could it be!

Mauro Ranallo: An EBWF icon!

Christy Hemme: Please welcome, DETROIT’S OWN…. ALEX SHELLEY!

Paul Heyman looked concerned, and Mickie immediately went to Miz who had begun pacing the ring.

Mauro Ranallo: He’s a one time EBWF Intercontinental Champion. The first ever, and three time, EBWF X-Division champion. He is still the youngest EBWF World Champion in history. What is he doing here, Nigel?

Nigel McGuinness: Miz and I don’t want to find out, Mauro!

As the lights came back up, and Alex got up on the ring apron, an “Alex Shelley’ chant complete with corresponding claps overtook the arena. The music faded, and Alex took a mic from his waistband. Before he could speak, Paul Heyman interrupted him to a chorus of boos from the crowd.

Paul Heyman: Young Mr. Shelley, if I may. My name is…

Alex Shelley: Shut up, Paul.

Miz whipped off his sunglasses at the disrespect, and Paul gaped. Alex continued.

Alex Shelley: Not exactly so young anymore, but I guess I’m still younger than Mike. Hey Miz! You look stressed. You need to sit down?

Miz smirked and rolled his eyes as the crowd cheered.

Alex Shelley: I understand that you want answers about the main event at Fallout, and Wes really wanted to be here to give them to you. Unfortunately…

The crowd started to boo.

Alex Shelley: Hold on… hold on… he’s not here yet. YET. Sometimes there’s traffic on I-75 and there’s not a lot that can be done about it.

The crowd popped at the local reference.

Alex Shelley: While we’re waiting for the boss to get here I thought maybe I could come out here and kick things off. Maybe answer some of your questions about Fallout.

Miz’s eyes grew big and he shook his head.

Alex Shelley: Now, now… don’t worry. I’m not your opponent. YET.

The crowd popped again.

Alex Shelley: As it turns out, Miz, EBWF has decided that to find your number one contender at Fallout we’re gonna have ourselves an Elimination Chamber match next week live on Warfare!

Miz wasn’t mic’d up, but he could be heard saying, “You’ve got to be kidding me!”.

Alex Shelley: Oh, I’m not. In fact, I’m out here right now to tell you that I’m entering that Elimination Chamber and I intend to win, and take your title at Fallout.

The Miz: Really?

Alex Shelley: Yeah, really!

Miz rubbed his temple, looking more annoyed than angry.

The Miz: Listen, Pat…

Alex rolled his eyes at the mention of his real name and shook his head.

The Miz: I’ve been here in EBWF for eleven years. You were already gone by the time I got here. EBWF has been around for over 20 years, and I have been here longer than you were. Yet, for some reason, you get all the respect. And I get booed.

The crowd answered with boos, and Miz held the microphone out to them.

The Miz: You’ve shown up for your nostalgia act here and there, but you haven’t been relevant in EBWF since when? 2008? I’m supposed to be threatened that you’re entering yourself in one of the most brutal matches in all of wrestling?

The crowd cheered at the mention of Alex wrestling again.

The Miz: You know what? I knew though. Deep down, I knew that Wes was going to have to reach way back in his bag of tricks. I’d be lying though if I told you I hadn’t been expecting John Cena.

The crowd gave a mixed reaction. Alex rolled his eyes.

The Miz: But yes, I was expecting that Wes was going to reach into that bag of tricks. So of course I took the opportunity to dig into mine.

Mauro Ranallo: Wait a minute!

Shelley saw movement out of the corner of his eye, but it was too late. Two men dressed in dark pants and black hoodies were on him and Miz was leaving the ring with Mickie and Heyman.

Nigel McGuinness: No way! Where did they… oh my God!

Mauro Ranallo: That’s Ted DiBiase Jr and Kyle O’Reilly! Miz’s old running buddies from Vertex.

Nigel McGuinness: The Miz knew the EBWF Brass were trying to find a new opponent for Fallout and he came ready with backup.

DiBiase and O’Reilly left Shelley dazed in the corner and rolled out of the ring. Miz stopped on the stage to look at their handiwork.

The Miz: You’ve been gone too long, Alex! There’s no one here for you. You’re all alone.

Miz watched as Alex struggled to crawl toward the center of the ring, sputtering.

Mauro Ranallo: Alex Shelley trying to get to that microphone on the canvas. O’Reilly and DiBiase knocked the wind out of him.

Alex grabbed the microphone.

Alex Shelley: You should know, Miz.

Alex coughed trying to get his breath back.

Alex Shelley: When I’m in Detroit, I’m never alone.

Alex pulled himself up on the second rope while the crowd cheered. He leaned on it as he glared up at Miz.

Alex Shelley: So let’s give these people what they want here tonight.

The cheers grew louder. Paul Heyman shook his head.

Alex Shelley: You and your two goons against me and whoever I can round up tonight! I’m a nostalgia act? You’ve contributed more to EBWF than me? Prove it! Prove it tonight. The whole City of Detroit thinks you’re a coward. Is that what you are, Miz?

Miz seemed to consider it for a moment, then looked at O’Reilly and DiBiase on the ramp. He went to raise the mic to his lips, but the crowd started a “Miz is Awful” chat and he stared in shock as Paul Heyman covered his ears. When Miz raised his mic to speak again Heyman stepped back.

The Miz: You know what, Shelley? You’re on!

It was Heyman’s turn to look surprised, as O’Reilly and DiBiase high fived at ring side at the prospect of having a match tonight. “I Came to Play” hit and Miz and company walked to the back.

Mauro Ranallo: We’re having a trios match tonight, Nigel! The Miz, Ted DiBiase and Kyle O’Reilly against Alex Shelley and two people of his choosing.

Nigel McGuinness: I don’t know if Vertex is reunited for tonight or if Miz intends to keep them here for Fallout, but whatever the case, Alex Shelley better watch his back here tonight.

An “Alex Shelley” chant went up from the crowd as Warfare went to commercial.

MATCH ONE

When Warfare came back from a commercial the Mysterios and Bullet Club were already in the ring at the tail end of the Bullet Club's entrance. Rey indicated to his son that he would begin the match and Adam Cole did the same for his team. The bell rang. Both men began circling each other before coming together in a very aggressive lock up. Early advantage went to Cole, who two hand shoved Rey to the mat, overpowering him, and Rey took a hard bump in the middle of the ring. Rey slowly got up and the two circled again. This time as they were about to lock up, Rey hit two kick knee strikes right to Cole's midsection. He then ran the ropes and came off aggressively with a two foot drop kick that sent Cole over the ropes and crashing to the floor below. Rey then hit Cole with a springboard splash to the outside. The crowd clapped showing their appreciation for the high flyer.

Mauro Ranallo: What a difference a couple of months makes. Rey was one of the most hated superstars on the roster, his fall from the main event- has clearly brought him back to being a beloved high flyer.

Nigel McGuinness: It's amazing how humbled he got VERY quickly after losing to Randy Orton.

Rey picked up Adam and slid him head first back in the ring. He dragged Cole to the corner and tagged in his son. Dominik immediately went up to the top rope as Rey held one of Cole's arms out. Dominik came from the top rope with an axe handle on the exposed rib of Cole. Rey went to the corner and Dom began to go to work on Adam Cole. A couple of stomps were followed by Dom running the ropes and going for a senton, but Cole rolled out of the way which caused Dom to hit bottom first on the unforgiving mat. Cole managed to crawl quickly to the corner and tag in Prince Devitt. As Dom popped up, Devitt dropped him with a thunderous clothesline and went for the matches first cover which earned a 2 count.

Mauro Ranallo: Devitt coming out of the corner there like a house of fire.

Nigel McGuinness: Let's see if he can keep this momentum up.

Devitt wasted no time picking Dom up and slinging him with an irish whip right into the corner with such ferocity that Dom fell to his knees after his back hit the turnbuckle. Devitt pursued quickly, dropping him with a knee to the face. He went for another cover and earned another 2 count. Rey began slamming the turnbuckle which led to the crowd clapping for his son. Devitt went to grab Dom for a tie up but Dom, using the momentum of the crowd, slapped his arms away and hit a tornado DDT. Dom quickly went for a cover as the crowd cheered the turn around move. He earned a 2 count. Dom quickly went to tag in Rey who once again quickly went to the top rope. Dom held Devitt's arms down as Rey flew from the top connecting on a corkscrew moonsault. He went for the cover and the referee counted…

1..

2...

Devitt kicked out. Rey looked a little surprised, but didn't let the kick out stop him. He went to connect on a Chris Jericho esque springboard moonsault but this time Devitt countered getting both knees up. Rey held his gut in pain as Devitt managed to get to Adam Cole. Cole rushed in and immediately hit Rey with a stiff kick right to those same ribs. He went for a pin, but the elder Mysterio kicked out at two. Cole had had enough. He set Rey up for the Panama Sunrise but Rey was able to slip under Cole's legs and roll him up.

1…

2…

Cole kicked out. He had a look on his face like… oooh you almost got me.

Mauro Ranallo: The veteran almost found a way to get a crafty victory here.

Nigel McGuinness: That was painfully close.

Rey smiled as the two locked up. Cole put Rey in a hammerlock, that Rey quickly turned around. He pushed Cole back first into the ropes. As Cole rebounded with his back to Rey. Rey went for a bulldog but Cole reversed it, slamming Rey face first into the mat against his own momentum. Cole went for another pin.

1...

2...

Another kick out by Rey. Dom now returned the favor, slamming his arm against the turnbuckle which led, once more, to the crowd urging on the Mysterio's. Cole was to a vertical base quicker than Rey. He picked Rey up by his head, and dragged him over to the corner. He tagged in Devitt who quickly engaged in a double team between the two men. Cole held Rey's arms apart as Devitt lit him up with a couple of knife edge chops. Devitt then put him up in a seated position on the top rope. He then went for a superplex, but Rey held onto the top rope. Devitt tried again, but again to no avail. Rey then kicked Devitt who fell from the top turnbuckle to the ground landing on his feet. Rey then jumped off the top rope connecting on a hurricanrana which flipped right into a pining situation.

The crowd counted…

1..

2...

3-NO KICK OUT.

Mauro Ranallo: ANOTHER near fall here.

Nigel McGuinness: What a match this has been!

Dom and Rey made eye contact and Dom was pleading with his father to tag him in. Rey looked at Dom and got a huge pop from the crowd. He yelled "You want Dom?!" and the crowd cheered. Rey was loving this love from the fans as he made his way over to his son. Prince Devitt while this crowd pandering was going on managed to make his way over to tag in Cole, just as Rey was approaching Dominik. Rey raised his hand to tag his son, but instead Dominik hit him in the face with a stiff right hand.

Mauro Ranallo: Wait what?

Nigel McGuinness: He just struck his own father.. and now.. oh no look out!

Cole hit Rey with a Panama Sunrise in the center of the ring. The crowd booed as the ref counted.

1..

2..

3!

Mauro Ranallo: The Bullet Club wins it.. but what in the actual hell, did we just see.

Cole looked at Dominik who stood in the corner emotionless before an evil smile formed on his face. Cole and Devitt quickly exited with their victory and made their way back up the ramp. Dominik entered the ring and began to viciously stomp his fallen father.

Mauro Ranallo: He's coming out here.

Dominik went under the ring and got a steel chair.

Nigel McGuiness: Somebody stop this!

Dominik entered the ring and hit his dad with 5 thunderous chair shots in a row to his exposed back. Rey cried out in pain. Dominik raised his arms to the crowd who rained down a chorus of boo's on the younger Mysterio. Dom hurled back and hit Rey once more with a shot right to the back of his fathers head. He then forcefully threw the chair down onto Rey. Before slowly exiting the ring with that same evil grin on his face.

Mauro Ranallo: Well the Bullet Club gets the win today, but obviously the bigger story is Dominik Mysterio turning his back on his own father. Why would he do that Nigel?

Nigel McGuinness: I truly don't know- but he sure as hell looks pleased with himself.

Dominik had back pedaled up the ramp fixated on his now beaten down father. He started laughing menacingly as he hit the top of the ramp. After a few beats he exited as Warfare went to a commercial break.

SEGMENT

When Warfare returned from commercial a black Dodge Charger was seen pulling into the underground parking garage. Once the car came to a stop and the break lights were engaged, Renee Young could be seen hustling toward the vehicle, the camera following her. The scene showed Wes Ikeda opening the back driver’s side door, and retrieving a bag that he threw over his shoulder. He turned to find Renee approaching him, a small smile crossing his features.

Renee Young: Mr. Ikeda, I’m sorry to intrude. Were you aware that Alex Shelley opened the show tonight?

Wes Ikeda: I was aware that he was here, but no I was not aware that he opened the show. This place must have loved that.

There was a pop inside the arena from the fans watching on the tron.

Wes Ikeda: Walk with me?

Wes started toward the arena entrance, his pace slower than usual so Renee could keep up. She followed after, still speaking into her microphone.

Wes Ikeda: Mr. Ikeda, he said there’s an Elimination Chamber match next Monday to determine Miz’s opponent at Fallout. He said he’s entering himself.

Wes nodded.

Wes Ikeda: Smart.

They reached the door and Wes stopped.

Wes Ikeda: Go ahead. Ask me.

Renee Young: Okay… who are the other five entrants in the elimination chamber match?

Wes nodded.

Wes Ikeda: There it is. I’ve been in the car, so haven’t had a chance to look at my phone, but it was kind of going off like crazy in the last thirty minutes. If I had to guess this has blown all the way up on Twitter. So yes, I will keep the suspense to a minimum tonight. Joining Alex Shelley in the Elimination Chamber match next week are Kevin Steen…

Though he couldn’t hear it, Wes paused for the reaction inside the stadium as the fans obliged.

Wes Ikeda: Prince Devitt. King Xavier. MJF…

The crowd was reacting to each name as Wes made a show of looking as though he’d just had a brilliant idea.

Wes Ikeda: Oh, and… some iteration of Bray Wyatt.

Even Renee’s eyes grew large at that. Wes smirked.

Wes Ikeda: Anyway, if I were a wrestling fan anywhere in the world I probably wouldn’t want to miss that. Thanks, Renee.

That smirk remained on Wes’ face as he walked out of frame, and the cameras returned to the arena.

MATCH TWO


Statlander's music hit and she came through the curtain to applause from the crowd.

Nigel McGuinness: Kris Statlander is expected to take on Allysin Kay here tonight in singles action.

Statlander got into the ring, and Allysin's music hit.

Christy Hemme: Please welcome, from Detroit, Michigan...

The crowd roared.

Christy Hemme: Allysin Kay!

Kay came onto the stage and turned her back to the camera to reveal the back of her leather jacket which featured an airbrushed likeness of Scott Hall.

Mauro Ranallo: The wrestling world lost an icon today, and Allysin Kay paying tribute here tonight.

Kay charged to the ring and slid under the bottom rope. The bell rang. Statlander and Kay exchanged counters and reversals early on and Kay threw a closed fist that Kris avoided by rolling to the mat. Kay went for a crucifix but Statlander blocked it and then rolled through and booped Kay’s nose to Kay’s frustration. Statlander threw Kay into the ropes but Kay came back and rolled her up for two. They exchanged nearfalls and then Kay went for a Monkey Flip but Statlander did a headstand and walked on her hands to the crowd's delight. Kay locked on the neck vice and then turned it into a neck breaker for two.

Nigel McGuinness: I thought Allysin had her there!

Kay hit a back heel trip and dove off the top with a senton backsplash for two. Kay hit a superkick for another nearfall. Kay went for a Back Suplex but Statlander blocked it and then hit a Blue Thunder Bomb for two! Statlander went for the spider crab but Kay countered into a triangle only for Statlander to deadlift her up and into a buckle bomb! Statlander hits the Falcon Arrow!

1...
2...

Mauro Ranallo: No good!

Statlander hit a series of running elbows but Kay caught her with an elbow of her own on the last attempt and followed up with kicks and headbutts. Kay went for a headscissors but Statlander blocked it and lifted Kay up for an electric chair only for Kay to counter into a Discus from Detroit! Kay helped Statlander up and hit the Outsider's Edge!

Nigel McGuinness: What a manuever!

1...
2...
3!

Nigel McGuinness: What a victory for Allysin Kay!

Allysin was emotional as she stood to have her hand raised in victory. Her hometown crowd cheered her on as EBWF went to commercial.

MATCH THREE

“Take Over” hit and the crowd cheered as Christian Cage made his way to the ring for the next match.

Mauro Ranallo: Up next, it’s the final of the Breakout tournament… will Christian Cage earn the chance to reclaim the Breakout Championship from Xavier Woods, or will MJF get his first title shot since signing for EBWF?

When Christian was in the ring, “Better Than You” hit and the crowd booed as MJF stepped out onto the stage.

Nigel McGuinness: We heard earlier tonight that MJF will be competing in an Elimination Chamber match next week to determine the new number one contender for the World Title… if everything goes his way, Maxwell Jacob Friedman could be the number one contender for two championships at once!

As soon as he entered the ring, MJF began taunting Christian Cage. The referee called for the bell and Christian charged towards MJF, but MJF immediately bailed to the outside, then taunted Christian some more. As MJF re-entered the ring, Christian whipped him against the ropes then went for a dropkick, but MJF held onto the ropes. As Christian got to his feet, MJF caught him with a shot to the throat, then rolled him up with a small package! The referee counted - 1… 2… Christian kicked out!

Mauro Ranallo: MJF almost stole a victory there!

As both men got to their feet, MJF hit Christian with a series of punches then went to whip him into the corner, but Christian reversed the Irish whip, sending MJF into the turnbuckles. Christian hit MJF with a series of punches in the corner, and as MJF pleaded for mercy, the referee intervened, forcing Christian to step back. As MJF moved out of the corner, Christian went for a lock up, but MJF hit an eye poke! The crowd booed, but the referee didn’t see it! MJF followed up with a snapmare, then put Christian in a chinlock. Christian fought out of it, then threw MJF out of the ring. Christian then went for a baseball slide, but MJF pulled out the ring apron, trapping Christian between the apron and the edge of the ring! MJF hit Christian with several punches, then dragged him back into the ring and hit a sitout powerbomb. He hooked both legs and the referee counted - 1… 2… Christian kicked out! MJF stomped on Christian several times, then dragged him towards the ropes and set him up for the Heatseeker… but Christian blocked it, before grabbing MJF and suplexing him over the top rope to the outside!

Nigel McGuinness: That was a high risk move and it looks like both men are hurt!

Both Christian and MJF were down on the outside, and after checking on them the referee began counting them out. As he reached the count of 5, Christian got to his feet. He grabbed MJF and threw him back into the ring, then climbed to the top rope. When MJF was up, Christian hit a diving crossbody, then hooked the leg. The referee counted - 1… 2… MJF kicked out! Both men got to their feet and locked up, but as they did so the arena lights went out. Suddenly, the sound of Richard Holliday singing could be heard throughout the arena.

Richard Holliday: HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO YOU, HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO YOU. HAPPY BIRTHDAY DEAR MAXWELL… HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO YOU!

When the arena lights came back up, Holliday was standing on the stage, but he wasn’t alone. With him was…

Mauro Ranallo: Is that Jade Cargill? What is she doing here?

Nigel McGuinness: Well Mauro, Richard Holliday did promise MJF a birthday present… and I guess that gift is signing Jade to Dynasty!

The camera cut back to the ring. MJF looked impressed, whereas Christian appeared bemused. Taking advantage of the distraction, MJF dragged Christian down to the mat, then locked in the Salt of the Earth! Christian was unable to get to the ropes, and he tapped out. The referee called for the bell and Holliday and Cargill applauded while the crowd booed.

Mauro Ranallo: Once again, MJF has cheated his way to victory!

Nigel McGuinness: He did no such thing, Mauro! Christian lost his focus, and MJF simply used that to his advantage… that’s not cheating, it’s smart!

MJF celebrated with Holliday and Cargill on the ramp as the camera cut to the back.

SEGMENT

As the scene opened, the camera appeared to be on the floor and pointing at the wall. A voice was heard somewhere in the room.

Edge: Drew! Put down the donut and get your ass over here.

There was a scrambling, hurried sound as the camera jarred and tilted. It must have come to rest on Drew the Cameraman’s shoulder, because he whipped it around to find Rated RKO standing amongst the tables in the catering area backstage.

Edge: Predictably, you knew right where to find him.

Randy Orton: Would you let the man enjoy his donut?

Edge: You’re right. You’re right. Drew, I’m being hard on you because I am not in a great place right now.

The camera had settled. Orton and Edge both stood in jeans and Rated RKO vs. EVERYBODY t-shirts. Edge had the Gateway Title on his shoulder, and they both wore the tag titles around their waist.

Randy Orton: Welcome to day 729 of the longest title reign in EBWF History. Tomorrow, we will have held these EBWF Tag Team Championships for two long years, and despite the fact that there are three mega stables, each with two tag teams apiece? Not a single one of them seems interested.

Edge: It’s fine. It’s fine. We’ll continue to carry this company on our back, Randy. We’ll continue to warn and advise. And then we’ll get to do the one thing we love above all else.

Randy Orton: Say we told ya so.

Edge: So imagine the way our ears perked up when we heard Wes Ikeda announce the competitors for next week’s Elimination Chamber match. I’m already the Gateway Champion, so it makes sense that I wouldn’t get an invite, but..

Edge looked at Randy, confused.

Randy Orton: Oh! Oh, I got the invite. You’re welcome, Kev. Adjustments have to be made when the natural and obvious choice politely declines.

Edge: Why would you…

Randy Orton: Does anyone really want to see me face The Miz again?

Edge: That’s a fair point.

Randy Orton: I don’t think it was the names not on the list that grabbed our attention so much as the names that were on it.

Edge: More specifically, one name that was on it. Didn’t we tell you, Mike? Didn’t we tell you that you’re just a pawn in whatever game Heyman is playing?

Randy Orton: Your thoughts must be spinning out knowing that your advocate advocated to have, who knows what insane version of, Bray Wyatt in a match for a world title opportunity.

Edge: To know that Paul lobbied and bargained and begged for Bray to be in this match must be making you feel like there’s nobody you can trust.

Randy Orton: Man, we do love saying we told ya so.

Edge: Enjoy your donut, Drew.

Randy Orton: Yeah, I mean… we have a whole summer beach body, Fallout Season abs thing going on right now, but that looks delicious.

Randy smacked Edge on the shoulder and they turned to leave as the scene faded and we returned to the arena where the cage was lowering.

CO-MAIN EVENT

Mauro Ranallo: Up next, we’ve got the Women’s Champion Alexa Bliss in action as she takes on Leva Bates in a steel cage match!

The traditional cage music was played as the cage was lowered, then “Geek” by MC Chris hit and the crowd gave a mixed reaction as Leva Bates made her way to the ring. When Bates had entered the cage, “Papercut” by Linkin Park hit and the crowd cheered as Alexa Bliss headed down the ramp. As she reached the bottom of the ramp, Bliss walked around the ring, holding the Women’s Championship up proudly before passing it to the timekeeper. She then entered the cage and after the cage door had been locked, the referee called for the bell. Bates charged towards Bliss and hit her with a series of punches, but Bliss fought back with some right hands of her own, then whipped Bates against the ropes before taking her down with a big boot to the face. As Bates got to her feet, Bliss hit a chokehold STO, then stomped on Bates several times.

Nigel McGuinness: This match can be won by pinfall, submission or escaping the cage, but I don’t think Alexa is thinking about that right now… she wants to give Leva Bates a good beating first!

Bliss pulled Bates to her feet and set her up for a DDT, but Bates countered it into a bridging northern lights suplex. The referee counted - 1… 2… Bliss kicked out! Both women got to their feet and Bates hit a dropkick, then began climbing the cage, but before she could reach the top Bliss pulled her down. Bates tried to put Bliss in a chokehold, but Bliss countered with a back elbow smash then dragged Bates towards the corner and slammed her face first into turnbuckle. Bliss sat Bates on the top rope and set her up for a superplex, but Bates kicked her away, then tried climbing the cage once more. Bliss jumped up on the ropes, climbing the cage next to Leva Bates. Both women were on the top rope against the cage, trying to knock each other down when Bliss grabbed Leva Bates, ramming her head into the cage. Bates looked like she was going to fall… but as she did so she grabbed Alexa Bliss in the air, taking her down with her! Both women went crashing to the mat, and they were down for several seconds before getting to their feet.

Mauro Ranallo: What a grueling match this has been so far!

As both women got to their feet, Bates threw Bliss into the cage, then as Bliss staggered backwards, Bates hit a German suplex. Both of Alexa’s shoulders were down and the referee counted - 1… 2… Bliss kicked out! As both women got to their feet, Bates hit a superkick, then began climbing the cage once more. As Leva reached the top of the cage, she tried to go over the top, but before she could do so Alexa Bliss climbed up after her. The two women fought at the top of the cage, trying to throw each other off. Just as it looked like Bates was gaining the upper hand, Alexa grabbed her and slammed her head off the top of the cage, before shoving her down to the mat! Bates hit the mat with a loud thud, and Bliss climbed onto the top of the cage. Bliss was about to start climbing down the other side… but then she looked back at Bates in the ring, and hit the Twisted Bliss off the top of the cage!

Mauro Ranallo: MAMMA MIA!

Nigel McGuinness: That was an unbelievable risk Alexa took there!

Even the referee appeared stunned by what had happened, and after checking neither woman was hurt, he made the count - 1… 2… 3! The referee called for the bell and Bliss slowly got to her feet, clutching her ribs as she did so. Bates was motionless on the mat, and a medic checked on her as Bliss made her way to the back.

SEGMENT

After the match, the camera cut to the backstage area, where MJF was standing with the rest of Dynasty, including their newest member, Jade Cargill.

Richard Holliday: Did you like your birthday present, Max?

MJF: Of course, I loved it. Welcome to Dynasty, Jade. And do you know what, Richard? I’m so grateful, I’m going to give you something in return. I hear Wes Ikeda has finally woken up to the fact that I’m his biggest star, and booked me in a match to become the number one contender for the World Title. I’m not thrilled about the fact it’s an Elimination Chamber match, but I guess Wesley has to give the other superstars a fighting chance. So here’s what I’m going to do for you Richard… when I win the Elimination Chamber and become the number one contender for the World Title, I’m going to give you my Breakout Championship shot. That way, we both get to be champions.

Richard Holliday: That’s so generous, Max! Thank you!

MJF smiled.

MJF: Don’t mention it. It’s all part of my long-term plan… we’ll have Alex Kane go after the Gateway Championship, Ace and KC will win the Tag Titles, and our newest member Jade will become the Women’s Champion. Then Dynasty has all the gold, proving to the rest of EBWF that we’re better than them… and they know it!

Jade Cargill: Damn right. I’m about to prove to the world that EBWF don’t stand for nothing… it stands for Exceptional Bitch Winning Fiercely!

Richard Holliday: Get that on a t-shirt!

Dynasty continued their conversation as the camera cut back to the ring.

CO-MAIN EVENT


“Aweeeesssooommme!”

A video package showing Alex Shelley’s challenge from earlier plays as The Miz comes to the ring with Ted DiBiase and Kyle O’Reilly.

Mauro Ranallo: We were surprised to see Vertex reunited here tonight, Nigel.

Nigel McGuinness: It is a brilliant move from Miz. The question now is if he intends to keep them around or if this is a one night only deal.

Miz did his spin entrance as the two men flanked him. They proceeded slowly down the ramp and got into the ring. Miz held the World Title up in the center of the ring as the boos reigned down. O’Reilly taunted the crowd as ‘I Came to Play’ faded and was replaced by an “Alex Shelley” chant that vibrated throughout the building.

“Motor City” hit again, and the adulation continued for the prodigal performer. Shelley stopped on the stage to soak in the moment as Miz conferred with DiBiase and O’Reilly in the ring. They turned to the entrance with interest as Shelley stopped half way down the ramp and waited.

“HAIL SABIN”

Nigel McGuinness: I should have guessed.

Mauro Ranallo: Vertex aren’t the only ones reuniting here tonight! It’s the Motor City Machine Guns.

The noise was almost uncontainable as Chris Sabin came from the back. Sabin had a gun taunt ready and pointed it toward the ring at The Miz and his partners. The Miz looked scandalized at the air guns threat, and the crowd laughed before continuing their boos for the World Champion. Sabin stopped mid-way down the ramp to stand next to Shelley. The Motor City Machine Guns stood there together while the crowd worked themselves into a fever pitch. Somewhere in the rafters a “Wes Ikeda” chant started up before it trickled through the crowd and the whole arena was chanting along . As the crowd was doing claps between the chants, Miz frantically waved them off, shouting “No!”.

Nigel McGuinness: It’s just disrespectful.

Mauro Ranallo: Well, we certainly see who the crowd wants. Now there’s just a question of whether or not they’ll get it…

“Oh My Here We Go!”

The Guns pointed toward the curtain as Wes came onto the stage wearing black and silver basketball shorts with a black t-shirt that read “Underrated, Under Appreciated, Underdog.” The camera caught a “Wes Ikeda” logo on the back as Wes walked back and forth on the stage surveying the crowd.

Nigel McGuinness: Underdog? Hardly! That’s the most ridiculous shirt I’ve ever seen.

Mauro Ranallo: That’s a 25-year old t-shirt from Wes’ days in Border City Wrestling and you know it, Nigel. When was the last time Wes Ikeda had a match?

Nigel McGuinness: This crowd doesn’t seem to care about that at all. He is the owner of this company…

Mauro Ranallo: That may be, Nigel, but The Miz brought his goons here tonight, and Alex Shelley will never fight alone if Wes Ikeda is in the building. Miz should have known better.

The three men got in the ring. The Guns posed on turnbuckles while Wes stood on the bottom rope.

Mauro Ranallo: Miz wants none of this!


O'Reilly taunted Alex Shelley from the outside and then Miz and Shelley get in each other’s faces. The bell rang, and they started shoving each other and Shelley tagged Sabin. Sabin put Miz in a wrist lock but Miz quickly reversed it and they traded chain holds showing off their wrestling prowess.

Nigel McGuinness: The Miz is a wrestling tactician! Are you seeing this Mauro?

Miz ran Sabin down but Sabin popped back up and caught Miz with a Hurricanrana. DiBiase tagged in and ate a springboard lucha armdrag and then a dropkick from Sabin. Shelley ran in and together the Machine Guns hit double dropkicks to O'Reilly. Wes tagged in, and then the crowd got fired up when he and The Guns dove onto Miz and Vertex on the outside.

Mauro Ranallo: That wiped everyone out!

Wes got to his feet, and rolled under the bottom rope. DiBiase met him there and hit a running clothesline, but Ikeda ducked a second attempt at one and hit a German suplex. Miz and O'Reilly tried to run in and interrupt a pin, but Ikeda hit Miz and then O'Reilly with German Suplexes. Wes put DiBiase in a sleeper but DiBiase caught him with a jawbreaker and tagged O'Reilly. O'Reilly hit a series of elbow drops on Ikeda and went for the pin. Ikeda kicked out at two and Vertex choked Ikeda in their corner while the Guns tried to rally the Detroit crowd.

Mauro Ranallo: Wes has to find a way out of that corner!

O'Reilly hit a roundhouse kick on Ikeda but Wes came back with a spinning neck breaker. Sabin tagged in and hit a series of strikes on O'Reilly and then sidestepped a charging DiBiase. Sabin hit an enziguri on O'Reilly followed by a stomp on O'Reilly and backstabber on DiBiase. Sabin went for a slingshot x-factor on DiBiase but got caught with a spinebuster in midair.


Mauro Ranallo: Chris Sabin just had the wind knocked out of him!

Sabin struggled to the corner, and DiBiase hurried for the tag. Shelley and Miz tagged in and Shelley tossed Miz around with hip tosses and then a backdrop. Shelley went for a superkick but when Miz ducked Shelley hit the DDT on him. Shelley hesitated going for a sliced bread #2 and Miz slapped him. Sabin came back in and speared Miz and punched away at him. O'Reilly Superkicked Shelley but ate a missile dropkick from Sabin. Ikeda clotheslined O'Reilly but ate a knee from DiBiase. Shelley superkicked DiBiase and then walked into some IT Kicks from Miz.

Nigel McGuinness: Shelley and Miz are still the legal men here!

Miz hit more It Kicks and as he went for the Skull Crushing Finale he ran right into a lariat from Ikeda! Shelley hit the Shellshock.

1…
2…

Nigel McGuinness: No good!

Mauro Ranallo: Miz kicks out!

Shelley picked Miz up and MCMG hit Made in Detroit! Wes lifted his fingers to count along with the crowd.

1...
2...

Mauro Ranallo: No! DiBiase breaks it up!

The Guns tossed DiBiase to the floor and Sabin hit a diving legdrop onto Vertex. Shelley went right back to Miz surprising him with Automatic Midnight!

Mauro Ranallo: The homage to Wes Ikeda! Wes calls that the "It's Time to Go!" Shelley calls it Automatic Midnight, whatever you call it, The Miz is out!

Shelley went back to his corner, and Ikeda tagged Shelley. Miz was stumbling up, and Wes leapt into the ring via the top rope for the springboard hurricanrana!

Mauro Ranallo: Wes Goes Pop!

Nigel McGuinness: When was the last time we saw that?! Into the pin...

1...
2...

Mauro Ranallo: And it's no good.

Wes chuckled as he helped Miz up, and they traded punches around the ring. Wes hit a superplex on Miz and went to the corner to tag in Sabin. Miz struggled to his corner and tagged in DiBiase. Sabin ran at Ted when he was unaware, and clotheslined him before going back to the corner and tagging in Shelley. Shelley climbed the turnbuckle just as Sabin hit the falling neck breaker on DiBiase. Shelley followed up with the diving splash.

Mauro Ranallo: Skull and Bones by the Motor City Machine Guns!

Shelley went for the pin.

Mauro Ranallo: Say it with us Detroit!

1...
2...
3!

Christy Hemme: Here are your winners, Wes Ikeda and The Motor City Machine Guns!

Wes joined The Guns in the ring and their hands were raised in victory as Miz yelled at DiBiase at ringside.

Nigel McGuinness: Detroit Rock City lived up to its name tonight!

Mauro Ranallo: What a match! What a night! We'll see you in two weeks for Fallout!