Pre Show Men’s 20 Person Battle Royale: Drizzles the Clown, Hawaii, Jack Trailor, Danny Mille, Mimic, Niko Green, RJ Bu, Kyle Higgins, Tyler Ford, Foster McDonald, Cyberhemoth, Glenny Pax, Little Man, Night Prince, Ninja, The United States, The Convict, El Espectro, El Termitas II, John Austin Baker.
Final 2 is Cyberhemoth eliminating Tyler Ford
Pre Show Women’s 25 Person Battle Royale: Daisy Fields, Kherti Bhakta, Maple Blossom, Penny Downs, Bethany Watts, Ashley Cannonball, Molly McDonald, Dixie Boyle, Ivy Clarke, Hazel Glover, Jenna Ingram, Zoey Chambers, Sophie Lester, Sabrina Nova, Crystal Cyclone, Isabella Dawson, Natasha York, Monica Stone, Rachel, Makayla Wren, Maisie Lane, Kitty Kayleen, Rene Pauline Galiardi, Joslyn Sky, Cambria Moorcraft.
Final 2 is Kherti Bhakra eliminating Maisie Lane.
With a huge pyro and the HAW theme music, HAW End of the Trail kicked off.
Edward Findleton: Welcome to HAW End of the Trail! I’m Edward Findleton, joined by THE Casey Gains and Eve Solace in Las Vegas, Nevada! It’s the biggest night of the year in professional wrestling, what a show we have!
Eve Solace: The women have a lot going on. Sekino The Stunt Pilot is facing a mystery opponent. The Revellers look to dethrone The Dystopians for the HAW Tag Team Titles. The Executioness Elena Dubois defends her National Title against Alicia McCarthy, and Moonlight will, potentially, face Sally Larkin for the HAW World Championship!
THE Casey Gains: Well I didn’t see Sally Larkin backstage at all, so it’s a valid question. Moving on to the men, we’ve got a number one tag team contender match with four teams, The Biofuel Engineers, The O’Toole Brothers, The Samurais of Power, and Team Sentinel! Speaking of teams, The MuscleGang and The Shadow Hand will finally settle the score in a four on four match. Then a triple threat as Handsome Harvey Allison be facing Franco Mancini and Mayor Briggs, and of course, Destroy All Wrestlers. The Million Dollar prize. The HAW World Championship. The champion Douglas Brunswick takes on Cole Arcane, Georgios Stanellis, Mitchell Row, Phoenix, Fun Fight Machine, Pastor James, and Leon Baron!
Edward Findleton: Well I know fans have been waiting a while to find out this mystery opponent. So let’s start the show off with The Stunt Pilot!
Sekino The Stunt Pilot vs ???
Sekino’s theme started, and the Stunt Pilot walked out, upset, annoyed and in a miserable mood. There was no fanfare or time wasted, she got to the ring and immediately turned to the entrance ramp, a scowl on her face and ready for her opponent.
The lights in the arena started to dim, and the jumbotron lit up. Text started to appear reading “Nothing But Style.” The letters started to fade and twist, until the text simply read “Stiles.” At that moment, the crowd erupted, as new music blasted through the arena, barely heard over the cheers. Moments later, Cate Stiles stepped out on top of the ramp.
Edward Findleton: Oh! My! God! Are you kidding me?! Cate Stiles?! Cate Stiles is in HAW?!
THE Casey Gains: I’m in absolute shock, and this explains The Stunt Pilot’s reaction to finding out her opponent. For too long, fans wondered what Cate Stiles would do in an HAW ring. We’re about to get that answer!
Eve Solace: She’s a four time RFW World Champion, an RFW Valkyrie Champion, and a ten year veteran. This might be Sekino’s toughest match she’s ever had!
Stiles walked to the ring with an air of confidence and a swagger, but didn’t take her eyes off Sekino. The Stunt Pilot returned the gaze, not showing fear. Cate Stiles finally broke eye contact as she got into the ring and climbed the ropes, now taking in the sight of the roaring arena. Stiles finally hopped down, and went to her corner.
Edward Findleton: This doesn’t feel real, but we are about to see two of the best wrestlers in the world go at it.
As the bell rang, an intense staredown began, that quickly led into both women grappling. Stiles was able to lock in a few facelocks but Sekino repeatedly escaped, and finally on a third escape slapped Stiles across the face. Stiles just grinned and nodded, then swept Sekino’s leg out from under her, and grabbed her ankle. Cate Stiles locked in the Ankle Lock, and Sekino was writhing in pain. With all her might, she managed to scramble to the ropes, and breaking the hold.
Cate kept the Ankle Lock as referee Brenda Moses began a count, and Stiles eventually let go at the last second. However as Stiles was letting go, Sekino managed to swing her other leg up and kick Stiles in the head, stunning her.
The Stunt Pilot started to take control, though with a noticeable limp, hitting a few snap suplexes on Stiles, then launching her out of the ring. Sekino began to use the ring environment to her advantage, dropping Stiles onto the corner of the ring apron and the steps time and time again. Stiles continued to try and fight back, kicking the hurt ankle of Sekino when she could, and while it slowed her down, the assault continued.
Sekino got Stiles into the ring, and looked to the top rope. She began to climb, ever so slowly with her ankle, seemingly trying to get into position for her Moonstomp. As she started to get into position, Stiles got to her feet and with adrenaline, climbed the ropes and attacked Sekino. The two traded blows, but Sekino came out on top, and started to position Cate into a new move.
Edward Findleton: What is she trying to do here?
With Stiles’ head tucked away, Sekino jumped, delivering a top rope piledriver right onto Cate Stiles.
Edward Findleton: Oh God! Cate Stiles might have a broken neck!
Eve Solace: Sekino shows no fear to her body, or remorse to her opponents.
Sekino crawled to a cover, and Moses got down and counted one, two, and a very last second kickout preventing the three.
Sekino was in shock, unable to process what happened.
THE Casey Gains: I don’t think anyone thought Stiles was kicking out of that!
The Stunt Pilot regrouped, wearily getting to her feet again, and once again started heading to the ropes. Out of breath and in pain, she tried climbing the ropes again. She turned and made sure Stiles was down, and steadied herself. Confirming Cate Stiles was unmoving, Sekino jumped for the Moonstomp. As she came down with her feet, Cate Stiles reached up and grabbed the foot of Sekino, causing her to stumble down to the mat.
Stiles kept ahold of the ankle, and stayed on the ground, an Ankle Lock now in place. She wrapped her legs around Sekino’s, keeping her to the mat.
Edward Findleton: The Ankle Lock is applied! It’s locked in! The Stunt Pilot is grounded!
Sekino tried in vain to hold on and power through the pain. She tried to drag Cate, but it was too much, she was stuck in the middle of the ring. Stiles tugged tighter on the ankle, and Sekino still fought through the pain, until finally tapping out.
Edward Findleton: It’s over! Sekino taps out!
THE Casey Gains: Never imagined I’d see the day where that happened.
Stiles released the hold, and just laid on the ground, completely spent. She finally was able to get to a knee, then stand up, as Brenda Moses raised her hand in victory, the crowd cheering.
Eve Solace: An amazing match to start this show. Both of these wrestlers showed why they're the best, you can’t take anything away from either of them.
Edward Findleton: I’m not sure what Cate Stiles’ future holds, but if she wants to come to HAW permanently, I think she’s made a great case today as deserving of a contract. We move on though now to our next match, where we have four tag teams making THEIR case in a number one contender’s match.
THE Casey Gains: The ruleset going into the match, is a single pinfall determines the winner. Each team will have one legal member in the ring, so four in total, and of course, standard tag rules apply to get your partner in.
The O'Toole Brothers vs The Samurais of Power vs The Biofuel Engineers vs Team Sentinel
Each team made their respective entrances. The O’Toole Brothers came out first, and the only team without someone in their corner, as the Samurais of Power walked out with Sensei Onaga, still limping with his knee brace, The Biofuel Engineers with the Convict, and Team Sentinel with Sentinel.
Sydney Mason, Ozzie Reagan, Billy Taylor, and Fergus O’Toole began the match, with Ozzie immediately going after Billy, while Fergus and Sydney mixed it up. Offense was traded amongst all four men, but Ozzie threw Billy Taylor over the ring, then as Fergus and Sydney brawled near the ropes, he lifted them up and dumped them over.
THE Casey Gains: Well if it was a battle royale he’d be the winner. But someone needs to tell him to pin these guys!
Reagan tagged in Trickshot, and Trickshot jumped outside the ring onto the three tossed wrestlers, knocking them over. The Samurais looked good, and Trickshot got Mason into the ring. He did some karate chops to Mason, as Taylor and Fergus managed to get back in. Fergus managed to make a quick tag to Sean, who jumped the rope and immediately hit a Superkick to Billy Taylor. This caught Trickshot’s attention who turned around, but Fergus was still in the ring and hit Trickshot with a Superkick. Sydney Mason was dazed and stumbled forward, as Sean and Fergus exchanged a nod, and hit a double Superkick onto Mason.
Sean went for the pin, but Dalton Elkins rushed in to save his partner, and the match. Elkins dragged Mason over to his corner and forced the tag, and started going back and forth with Sean O’Toole. As the two fought, Billy Taylor tagged in Wesley Wagner, and the two proceeded to run rampant on Sean and Elkins. Flashy slips and spring board strikes had the engineer and O’Toole completely flatfooted, and the team work of Team Sentinel was on full display. Referee Dennis Thompson warned Taylor to get out of the ring, and he did momentarily, but jumped back in when Trickshot slid into the ring.
Wesley Wagner managed to trip up Trickshot, and lock in the Cloverleaf, as Billy Taylor connected with the Baseball Slide for their Cloverleaf Cannon. Trickshot was about to tap, but Ozzie rushed in and broke the pin up.
At this point, it devolved into a Samurais vs Sentinel match, and the Samurais started to swing momentum in their favor. More karate chops and strikes started to stun Wagner and Taylor, and each Samurai had a sentinel in the opposing corner. They Irish whipped the two right into each other, as they collided in the center of the ring. Billy Taylor and Wesley Wagner stumbled, still facing each other, and Trickshot and Ozzie ran and jumped, sandwiching the Team Sentinel together.
Trickshot went for the pin, but Sydney and Dalton rushed in, with Sydney Mason pulling Trickshot off, and behind the ref’s back, Dalton Elkins hit a low blow to Ozzie. The two then grabbed Trickshot, and hit the Double Flapjack.
Edward Findleton: This could be it!
Dalton went for the pin on Trickshot, but Sean O’Toole jumped from the top rope with a splash, breaking up the pin. As Dalton and Sean eventually started to brawl, the Convict seemed to have enough. He reached under the ring and grabbed a metal pipe, and began to climb onto the apron. At that point, Sensei Onaga walked over and admonished him, telling him to drop it. The Convict jumped down from the apron, and looked down at Onaga’s knee, then the pipe. He was about to swing it, when Sentinel himself rushed over, grabbing The Convicts arm. The Convict then turned and hit Sentinel instead.
This caught the attention of BIlly Taylor, Wesley Wagner, Ozzie Reagan, and Trickshot, who rushed out of the ring. They grabbed the pipe and tossed it to the side, and it landed in the ring. As referee Dennis Thompson yelled to the battling teams outside, Fergus slid into the ring, and started to line up Dalton Elkins for a Superkick. Instead, Sydney Mason grabbed the pipe and clocked Fergus in the head. He then rushed over to Dalton still battling Sean, and together they managed to hit a Double Flapjack. Dalton went for the cover as Sydney got Thompson’s attention, and the Biofuel Engineers picked up the win.
Edward Findleton: A lot of chaos this match but it looks like next year we’ll be seeing the Biofuel Engineers and the Firing Squad!
Eve Solace: Each time had a chance but it was the X factors outside the ring that caused this ending.
THE Casey Gains: Good point Eve, Sydney and Dalton had four allies tonight, the Convict and the pipe.
Edward Findleton: Well as we find out the course for the men's tag team division, it’s time to figure out what will happen with the women’s tag division!
The Revelers vs The Dystopians
The jumbotron showed images of landscapes and wildlife, as a documentary narrator talked over it.
Narrator: Australia, home to some of the most dangerous and unique animals in the world. Jellyfish…spiders…crocodiles. These all pale in comparison to the most dangerous animal of all….The Revelers.
With that, the Reveler's music started, and Teri and Roo ran out onto the stage, excited and ready for their match. The two rushed down to the ring, hopping in and posing for the audience.
The lights dimmed, and lasers began flying around the arena. Stepping onto the stage with lit up clothing where the Dystopians, Dark Raven and Void-N. The tag champs walked down to the ring, until there was a laser barrier. Upon walking past it, the arena lights came on, and their own lights turned off.
Roo began the match with Dark Raven, and as the bell rang, Dark Raven immediately went after the injured shoulder of Roo. They tried to isolate Roo to the opposite corner, but she managed to squirm away and make a tag to Teri, already rubbing her shoulder from the first few attacks.
Teri locked up with Dark Raven, and while grappling, Void-N jumped into the ring and kicked Teri, giving Dark Raven the upper hand. Referee Heidi O’Neill told Void-N to get out of the ring, and she answered by running towards Roo in an attempt to elbow her. Roo was prepared however, and grabbed the top rope and jumped down, sending Void-N over the ropes. However, Roo also ended up falling, as she was unable to support herself with the shoulder, her hand letting go of the rope.
The initial attack still worked though, as Dark Raven was able to capitalize on Void-N’s initial interference. She started to wear Teri down, going for some pinfalls and nearly winning, but Teri was able to kick out. Dark Raven made a quick tag to Void-N to stay fresh, and as Void-N approached Teri, she grabbed her legs and got her in an inside cradle. There was a pin attempt, but Void-N kicked out. Both women got to their feet, and Void-N went for a huge haymaker. Teri ducked, got behind Void-N, and hit the Backdrop Driver. Void-N looked done for, but it also looked like the last bit of energy Teri had.
THE Casey Gains: If she can cover her, the Revelers might be champions!
However, it was Void-N who started to move first, but Teri followed a few moments later. Seeing Void-N stirring, Teri started crawling towards her corner, Void-N doing the same. The hot tags were made, and Roo rushed in, hitting a jumping spin kick on Dark Raven, again and again as Dark Raven repeatedly tried to get up.
Roo was fired up, and now had the upper hand on Dark Raven, but once again, The Dystopians didn’t care for the rules as Void-N jumped in again to attack Roo. Teri was still in pain but had recovered enough to run in as well to help her partner, and it quickly turned to a two on two fight in the ring.
Eve Solace: Roo and Dark Raven are the legal competitors still but it looks like chaos!
Punches and slams were exchanged, and Teri managed to get Void-N in position for another Backdrop Driver. She lifted her up, but didn’t realize Roo was behind her, and performed the Backdrop Driver to Void-N onto Roo, driving Roo shoulder first into the mat.
This took Teri out of the moment, and immediately went to check on her partner’s shoulder, who was clutching it in pain. The moment was all Dark Raven needed, as she connected with a running knee to Teri. With Roo still on the ground clutching her shoulder, Dark Raven locked in a Leg Trap Guillotine Choke. Roo tried to hold on to see if help was coming, but Teri was out of it. With no choice, Roo tapped out to get the hold released.
Edward Findleton: And the Dystopians retain!
THE Casey Gains: Not as pretty as their normal matches but they did it.
It was a rough battle for Void-N and Dark Raven, who exhaustedly took their titles, retreating up the ramp. In the ring, Roo seemed to apologize to Teri, who gave her a light hug, careful of the injured shoulder. Heads down, the Revellers departed.
Edward Findleton: What a year for the Dystopians, they’ve shown to be one of the tougher new teams in HAW. But there’s also been a new tough group in HAW this year, The Shadow Hand! Their match against the MuscleGang is next!
The Shadow Hand vs The Muscle Gang
At the top of the stage, a fog started to cover it, as The Shadow Hand’s music began. Walking through the mist came Jonah Webb, Peter “Carnage” Horn, Jet Black, and Demon Lord Lenin May.
Edward Findleton: This is a scary four right here. They felt slighted by the MuscleGang and have since been on a mission to hurt them.
Eve Solace: That attack on Oden Schreiner a few weeks ago…very horrifying.
The MuscleGang followed next, with Crash MuscleGate, Frederic St. Pierre, and Lovable Liam wearing Oden Schreiner costumes. Scarred Badger followed as himself, and bringing up the rear was Alfred Karneus.
THE Casey Gains: Karneus could be the x factor in this match. There’s eight talented wrestlers competing, and Alfred knew how to go back in the day. That could tip the scales in the MuscleGang’s favor.
Both teams were now ready for this four on four match, and referee Dillon Bartos called for the bell. Crash started off against Jonah Webb, and started at a fast pace, using his cardio to start to tire Webb out, along with quick strikes. Webb had enough and tagged in Lenin May, while Crash got the fresh St. Pierre in.
Frederic and May began to chain wrestle, and try as he might, May was repeatedly unable to out wrestle St. Pierre, repeatedly falling to holds. He finally escaped and tagged in Jet Black, and St. Pierre answered with a tag to Scarred Badger.
The two wrestlers with no fear of pain went at it, clobbering and delivering huge punches to each other, the brawl a stark contradiction to the technical wrestling that was going on previously. Badger started to wear Jet Black down, and whipped him to the ropes and attempted a Big Boot, but Jet ducked at the last second and hurried back to his corner, aware he came close to some devastating damage. With that, Jet Black tagged in Peter “Carnage” Horn. Badger looked over to his team, and tagged in Lovable Liam.
Horn had a few solid inches over Liam, and chuckled as he approached him. The two men stared each other down, Horn smiling and not taking Liam seriously. Liam then held his arms out, motioning for a hug. Horn laughed again and hugged Liam, only for Liam to grab him and hit an overhead belly to belly suplex.
Edward Findleton: He lured him right into that one!
Horn was shocked and on trying to defend Liam, but Liam showed impressive strength picking Horn up with a gorilla press slam and tossing him to the mat. Horn stumbled to his knees, and Liam didn’t stop and got Horn in a position for a powerbomb, which he hit right in the middle of the ring. He went for the cover but Webb rushed in to break it up.
With Webb running in, this brought the other MuscleGang members, and on that note, the remaining Shadow Hand members. A massive 4 on 4 brawl started to happen, and in the mayhem, referee Dillon Bartos got hit with an errant punch and fell to the mat.
The fight spilled outside the ring. Crash tossed May into a barricade, Horn slammed St. Pierre onto the ramp, Liam smashed May’s head into a ring post, and Webb crawled under the ring to escape Badger, who grabbed Webb’s leg, pulled him out, and was met with a fire extinguisher to the face, blinding him.
As Webb recovered, Crash rushed over with a chair, and started hitting Webb, repeatedly across the spine, before tossing it to the side and pounding Webb. In the ring, Liam and Horn had managed to get back inside. They exchanged a few punches, but Horn overpowered Liam this time and managed to hit the Side Sitout Powerslam. Horn went for the cover, but Bartos was still down.
At that point, Crash rushed into the ring and attacked Horn. Horn managed to fight Crash and slam him to the mat, and now stood tall. He started to talk over to Dillon Bartos, but sliding in the ring was Alfred Karneus, steel chair in hand. Horn stopped midstep, and stared his former manager down, who looked ready to swing it.
Edward Findleton: Is he going to knock out Horn?!
Karneus screamed in anger and swung the chair with all his might. But Horn caught the chair in his hands before it could connect. Karneus was stunned, and Horn quickly overpowered Karneus, ripping the chair from his hands, and in a smooth motion, swung the chair…right behind him into a now standing Crash MuscleGate. The chair connected with Crash, who collapsed to the ground. Karneus then glared at Karneus, who wanted no part of this and took off running, retreating through ropes and running up the ramp.
Horn tossed the chair aside, and went to cover Crash. Dillon Bartos managed to recover enough to slowly make a three count.
Edward Findleton: The Shadow Hand wins!
Eve Solace: But did they? Crash isn’t even the legal man!
THE Casey Gains: And he’s unconscious on the mat when he got hit by an illegal move. It broke down, and the bell rang. Peter “Carnage” Horn and The Shadow Hand have won.
The Shadow Hand came to the ring, Webb laughing and gloating, and each member smiling, but it was a hard fought victory, all clearly in pain.
Edward Findleton: A tough loss for the MuscleGang, but speaking of tough, we have two tough women in our next match, Alicia McCarthy and The Executioness, Elena Dubois for the HAW National Championship!
The Executioness Elena Dubois vs Alicia McCarthy
At the top of the ramp, a small structure resembling a saloon was placed at the top of the stage. Elena Dubois’ music hit, and moments later, the sound of a gunshot as the wooden swinging saloon doors appeared to burst apart, and walking through the doorway was Elena Dubois. The National Champion confidently walked down to the ring, ready for this battle.
Moments later, Alicia McCarthy’s music started up, and she emerged on the stage, wearing a stylistic suit of armor and a helmet. She marched down to the ring, taking her helmet off before entering the ring, then finally shedding the armor as she entered.
As referee Mira Levenberg called for the bell, Alicia and Elena locked up. The larger McCarthy overpowered Dubois and brought her to her knees before hitting a headbutt to Dubois. Dubois flinched and broke it up, before locking up again. Once again, Alicia overpowered Dubois, this time lifting her up and quickly tossing her out of the ring.
Dubois was flustered, and rushed back into the ring, this time just throwing punches. McCarthy didn’t back down, and each woman just kept punching and hitting each other, non stop. Throughout this particular battle, McCarthy started to force Dubois into the corner. She finally stopped and did a few shoulder thrusts right into Dubois’ ribs.
With Elena hobbled over, McCarthy climbed to the middle rope, and jumped with a double axe handle to Elena’s back. Dubois fell to the ground, and McCarthy took that opportunity to start gloating and posing for the crowd. That proved to be a mistake, as Dubois did a leg sweep, got on top of McCarthy and repeatedly started punching her.
In desperation, McCarthy stopped trying to block the punches, and instead reached for Elena’s hair and started to yank it. This managed to get Elena to stop her punches, and get off of Dubois.
Both women were hurt and with labored breath, slowly got to their feet. McCarthy ran towards Dubois and tried to clothesline her, who ducked and hit a spinning back kick. Dubois stumbled, but turned and hit a successful clothesline on Dubois. She picked up Dubois, and hooked her arms, preparing for the Double Underhook Powerbomb. As she lifted her, Elena managed to reverse into a hurricanrana, sending McCarthy to the opposite side of the ring. Enraged, Alicia stood up, and charged at Dubois again. Dubois did the same, and connected with the Running European Uppercut.
McCarthy immediately tumbled to the ground, and Elena quickly went for a pin, and successfully picked up the victory.
Edward Findleton: And just like that, it’s over! Elena Dubois remains National Champion!
Dubois cringed in pain, but managed to stand up and get her hand held up by Mira, as she held the title in the other.
Eve Solace: A hard hitting stiff match, but like you said Edward, that European uppercut was so sudden, McCarthy wasn’t ready, and down she went.
THE Casey Gains: As we go from one great National Championship, we go straight into another. It’s the Men’s Three Way match, Franco Mancini, Mayor Briggs, and the champion, Handsome Harvey Allison!
Mayor Briggs vs Franco Mancini vs Handsome Harvey Allison
Mayor Briggs theme started up, and he came out with his City Council, Bigg Pimpin’ Alex and The United States. As he walked down, he was surrounded by people on the ramp cheering, holding signs like “Mayor Briggs for Champion” “Briggs 2025” and “National Mayor.” Briggs autographed a few signs along the way before coming into the ring.
Big band music started to play, and the jumbotron showed the back of a man, in a pinstripe suit and fedora while holding a cigar, walking through a Vegas casino. Staff and patrons alike seemed to acknowledge him with respect and awe as he walked past card tables and slot machines, before stopping outside a door that read “High Rollers.” The man took a puff of the cigar and blew the smoke out, and walked through the doors.
Mancini’s music started, and Franco stepped out in the pinstripe jacket and fedora. With a purposeful walk, he made his way to the ring, taking the jacket and hat off along the way.
With Franco and Briggs ready, Handsome Harvey Allison’s music began, and the jumbotron showed him backstage. He began to walk, and entered a hall of mirrors, and began posing with his National title as he walked along. When he finally emerged, Strawberry Bates Hill joined him on stage, and the two walked down to the ring.
Edward Findleton: Harvey Allison won that title in October of last year. He defeated Mayor Briggs, and Strawberry Bates Hill, and has held it ever since. He lived by the three way match, will he die by the three way match?
As referee Tom Hunter rang the bell, Hill posed for the crowd, who let him know they didn’t appreciate it. Briggs and Mancini exchanged a look, then gave a quick fist bump. They both attacked Harvey from behind, and started punching and kicking, the crowd now cheering.
As the two on one beatdown continued, they both managed to hit a double suplex on Allison. Briggs then lifted Allison up and held his arms back, while Franco delivered body blows to Allison, knocking the window out of him, before punching him square in the jaw. Harvey Allison was now limp, hanging down, and Franco bent down and Whacked Harvey, hitting that Throat Thrust. Briggs dropped Allison, and Franco got up onto the ropes to pump the crowd up. Briggs however, saw the opportunity, and quickly covered Allison. Franco heard the ref’s hand hit the mat for one, then he quickly jumped down, breaking it up and two and a half.
As Briggs stood up, Franco started to argue with him, and Briggs shouted back, pushing Franco away. Franco took a deep breath, upset, then elbowed Briggs right in the stomach.
THE Casey Gains: Well that alliance didn’t last long!
The two locked up in the ring, and Harvey took that moment to roll out of the ring. As Hill checked on him, Allison stayed outside, watching and grinning and Briggs and Mancini went to town on each other.
The offense came in waves, with Mancini first in control, but Briggs countered and had Mancini staggered. Allison was almost recovered now, and casually standing outside the ring, laughing at the fighting. Briggs started to climb to the top rope to hit a vulnerable Franco, but Franco quickly got up, and pushed Mayor Briggs, who went flying outside the ring and directly into Harvey Allison, knocking him down.
All three men were starting to recover, and Strawberry Bates Hill dragged Harvey far from Briggs, who was getting help with his City Council. As Hill guided Allison to the ring apron, Hill suddenly grinned. He put his hands behind his back, trying to act inconspicuous, and then bent down under the apron, seemingly grabbing something. He peaked his head up, but his hands were still under the ring. Hill told Harvey to get into the ring, and as Harvey started to crawl in, Hill went to hand him a trashcan lid. Hill was reaching across, the trashcan lid level with Allison’s head, and Franco ran and did a baseball slide right into the lit, molding it to Allison’s face.
Eve Solace: Ouch! He may not be so handsome after that!
Mancini shouted outside the ring at Hill and Allison, and didn’t realize Briggs had recovered. Mayor Briggs crept behind Franco and then quickly rolled him up, grabbing the tights and putting his feet on the ropes, but Franco kicked out at two.
As they broke away from contact, Briggs motioned to Bigg Pimpin’ Alex, who jumped up on the ring apron. Referee Tom Hunter went over to tell him to get down, which allowed The United States to enter from the other side of the ring, with brass knuckles on his hand. He started aiming for Mancini, but Strawberry then ran in, yelling for Tom Hunter’s attention. Hunter turned around and saw the brass knuckles, and looked at each member of the City Council. He then pointed to the back, kicking Alex and The United States from ringside. Mayor Briggs was beside himself, and reluctantly, the City Council walked to the back.
As Hill went out to check on Allison, Briggs was still furious, yelling at Tom Hunter, and Franco took the opportunity to grab Briggs from behind. He put him in position for the Pickpocket, but Briggs slipped out and hit the Half and Half Suplex. Briggs went for the cover, but Allison rushed in and broke it up. He grabbed Briggs and tossed him out of the ring, and with great urgency, lifted Franco up, and quickly hit the Sitout Jawbreaker. As Allison went to cover Mancini, Briggs tried to run back in the ring, but before he could reach him, Hill grabbed his leg and stopped him. Tom Hunter’s hand hit the mat for a third time, and Franco Mancini was pinned.
Edward Findleton: I don’t believe it! Harvey Allison has retained the title!
THE Casey Gains: And wow, what a huge help from Strawberry Bates Hill! I bet Harvey will be so proud when he sees what he did for him?
Eve Solace: Really?
THE Casey Gains: Absolutely not.
Harvey was bruised and had welts all over his body, but he clutched the National Title, pleased with his victory. Hill tried to help him up the ramp, but Allison just pushed him off, worrying more about the title and keeping it close.
Edward Findleton: What a year it’s been for Harvey Allison. And for our next match, I think we can say, what a year it’s been for Sally. From robot mind control, to pain, to freedom, to the big question, will she even show up? All of that is about to be resolved in our next match, the HAW Women’s World Championship!
Moonlight vs Sally Larkin?
The jumbotron showed Moonlight in a hoodie, walking down the Vegas strip, phone in hand. As she passed famous hotels and landmarks, she’d tap her phone, and the lights of the city would go out, until Vegas was in darkness.
In the arena, it was dark, until a light on the far side of the arena lit up, looking like a full moon. This turned out to be a spotlight, which shined down on the ramp to reveal Moonlight. The HAW Women’s World Champion smiled and strutted down to the ring, confident and grinning.
Eve Solace: Moonlight believes Sally Larkin won’t show up tonight, and I can tell you, I did not see her anywhere before the show.
As Moonlight handed her title over to referee Brenda Moses, her music stopped, and she turned her attention to the ramp. A few moments went by, and there was just silence. Moonlight burst out laughing, and went up to ring announcer Bradley Wallace, yelling at him. Wallace looked at Brenda Moses, but seemed hesitant. Moonlight forcefully took the microphone from him.
Moonlight: Like I said, tonight is the easiest title defense, as Sally Larkin is a no show! So I’m calling it now. The winner of this match….and STILL HAW World Champ-
Moonlight was cut off as the screamo intro of Sally Larkin’s indie theme blared through the arena, bringing the crowd to their feet. After a few moments, Sally Larkin, now in proper black and red wrestling attire, walked to the top of the ramp. She had a nervous energy, and seemed out of place, glancing all around and taking her situation in; the stadium, the thousands of fans, the ring. Sally lowered her head, looking down at her feet, taking long deep breaths, in an attempt to calm herself down. The deep breaths started to quicken, her shoulders heaving at first, then her whole body shaking. Her head snapped up, teeth clenched and eyes that no longer showed nervousness, but pure rage, as she pointed at Moonlight in the ring. Sally screamed in anger, and marched down to the ring, her finger still on Moonlight, gaze never leaving Moonlight, and it was now champ who had the look of fear.
Edward Findleton: The blood just drained so fast from Moonlight’s face, she looks like she’s seen in a ghost!
THE Casey Gains: Our fans are chanting at Moonlight now…it’s normally reserved for in ring action, but this is clearly in regards to what brought her to this situation. Moonlight, you DID “F” up.
Sally Larkin slid into the ring, and Moonlight put her hands up, taking a few steps back. It didn’t matter because Sally beelined towards her and punched her square across the face. Referee Brenda Moses rang the bell and the match was officially on.
Sally proceeded to toss Moonlight around the ring like a ragdoll, onto the mat, into the turnbuckle, and making sure to get a few shots in as well. Moonlight tried to roll out of the ring to escape, but Sally followed, and smashed her face right off the steel steps, before tossing her back inside in.
Moonlight was struggling to do anything, but stumbled to her feet as Sally followed her inside. Moonlight took that opportunity to elbow Sally Larkin in the face. Sally’s held her head for a few seconds, before shaking it off, and turning back towards Moonlight. Moonlight took that opportunity to run again, heading to her corner of the ring, where she grabbed her hoodie and pulled out her phone. Sally followed her, but Moonlight put a few commands into her phone, and the arena went dark.
Edward Findleton: Uh oh! Are we still on the air? Can they hear us?
After a few moments, the lights came back on, and Moonlight was in the opposite corner, right next to the turnbuckles. Behind her back, she tossed one of the turnbuckle covers outside the ring, the top rung exposed. Sally took a running start towards Moonlight, but Moonlight dodged and pushed Sally’s head right into the exposed metal. This clearly hurt Sally, and she immediately started bleeding from her forehead.
A smile of relief started to form on Moonlight’s face, and she chuckled and held her hands up, taking this small victory. Sally then screamed in fury, blood covering her face, and began to slowly pace towards Moonlight, who seemed horrified.
Sally grabbed Moonlight and tossed her face first into the turnbuckle. What followed was a series of powerful moves, from brainbusters, to gusbusters, to neckbreakers. Sally was completely dominating, and got Moonlight in position for the Tornado Bomb, which she hit. Moonlight was completely out of it, sprawled out in the ring, her only movement was her breathing.
THE Casey Gains: She’s gotta pin her and become champion! This is it!
Instead, Sally picked up Moonlight, and hit the Tornado Bomb again.
Eve Solace: This looks like it’s beyond winning, it’s personal at this point.
Edward Findleton: But I gotta agree with Casey here, this can backfire if she just doesn’t end it!
Yet Sally didn’t end it. She hit that Tornado Bomb three more times, and still hadn’t pinned Moonlight. The still bleeding Sally left the ring and grabbed a bottle of water, bringing it back into the ring and pouring it on Moonlight’s face, slapping her hard across the cheeks in an attempt to rouse her. Moonlight slowly seemed to come to, and realizing her situation, started to beg and grovel at Sally’s feet.
Sally didn’t care, she just looked down at Moonlight with disdain. Moonlight made it to her knees and put her hands together pleading, hoping Sally would have mercy. Larkin made no emotional response, just took a few slow steps until she was behind Moonlight like an execution. Moonlight lowered her head, accepting her fate, and Sally kicked Moonlight hard in the back of the head.
As Moonlight collapsed to the mat unconscious, Sally covered her, and easily got the three count.
Edward Findleton: An absolute massacre! Moonlight thought she’d have the easiest title defense, and instead…we have a NEW World Champion, Sally Larkin!
As Brenda Moses retrieved the title and gave it to Sally, she looked at it in disbelief, and the anger seemed to finally subside. She hugged the title, staining the metal and leather with her blood, then raised it. As she stood on the ropes posing, the Strange Crew with Drizzles, Hawaii, and Jessie had come from the back and entered the ring. Sally saw the trio, and seemed uncertain at first, before offering her hand out for a shake. Jessie took a step forward, and shook her head “no.” Instead, she hugged Sally, congratulating her. Shortly after, Drizzles and Hawaii hoisted Sally onto her shoulders, parading her around the ring, then to the back, as the new champion.
Edward Findleton: Well that’s certainly one of the most memorable matches at End of the Trail we’ve had. And coming up…is a match that’s been over a year in the making. It’s a one million dollar prize. It’s the HAW World Championship. It’s Destroy All Wrestlers.
Destroy All Wrestlers (Brunswick, Arcane, Stanellis, Row, Fun Fight Machine, Phoenix, Pastor James, Baron)
An intro package video played. A dark room, with a spotlight showing the HAW World Championship on a pedestal. A second spotlight on the ground next to it was empty, until Viking stepped into frame, and dramatic orchestral music started.
Viking: There are matches… and then there are battles that define careers. Moments that separate the great from the legendary.
Highlights of previous matches played, wrestlers who gave it their all, from Franco Mancini’s first victory, to Viking’s, and then competitor’s first World Title wins like Fun Fight Machine, Mitchell Row, James Calhoun, Douglas Brunswick, and Phoenix.
Viking: Eight wrestlers in this match. One championship, held by only twelve men in the world. One million dollars. And the biggest opportunity of their lives.
A shot of Brunswick in a gym, training, then sitting on a bench as he held his title, lost in thought as he started right into the plates of it.
Viking: The champion looks to make history, becoming the first man to defend the World title for a full year. One match to be remembered forever…or one moment to lose it all. The others? It’s been months of preparation, hoping for the opportunity to achieve immortality.
More footage of a young Fun Fight Machine celebrating his title win in his victory, mixed with his evolution as a wrestler over the years and his chances where he came up short.
Viking: For some, this could be a last chance to taste a glory that hasn’t touched their lips in thirteen long years.
Footage of Cole Arcane walking through a darkened alley, with tattered, faded posters of him on brick walls, advertising him as an RFW Champion.
Viking: A victory tonight changes a wrestler forever. A loner could soon have the full eyes of the world upon them, introducing a new dynasty of violence.
A shot of Phoenix hitting some high flying moves in his younger years, high fiving children and posing with his super hero cape, before more recent footage of him cheating to win as a tag team with Fun Fight Machine.
Viking: There are no friends. There are no villains. There are no heroes. Only warriors.
It cut to Pastor James sitting alone in a church pew. No lights are on inside, but a single beam of sunshine seemed to land on him. He looks down, and the camera panned down to show a very young James and an infant girl in his arms.
Viking: It takes a certain ego to make it to the top. A thirst for power and greed, but also growth, a recognition that holding championship gold means personal redemption.
The scene switched to Leon Baron inside a cage, pacing back and forth like an animal, before grabbing the bars and bending them, breaking free.
Viking: Each man knows what this opportunity means. Some are familiar with the spotlight of stardom, but others have been cloaked in the shadows, waiting to be released into the wild.
It now showed Georgios Stanellis in his mansion, lounging next to Kitty Kayleen, and sipping a fine wine, as he reaches out and holds her hand.
Viking: It’s a night where records can be broken. Bodies will be broken. Hearts have been broken, and prestige shall be forged.
Finally a shot of Mitchell Row, standing on a dock in a rain storm, his hood up and lightning flashing behind him.
Viking: The pressure to win, to change the course of your life and career, will crush some. Which might mean the most dangerous man could be the one with nothing left to lose.
All eight wrestlers then appeared on the screen, each in their various environments of home, wrestling, whatever defined them most, before switching to action shots of them hitting finishing moves.
Viking: Eight men. One year to make a name for yourself. And one match to have your name remembered until the end of time.
The music cresendoed, before going to a deep silence, and a final shot of the HAW World Championship on the pedestal in the dark.
Viking: Destroy All Wrestlers… begins now.
A wide shot of the arena stage established, the crowd in anticipation, erupted as Douglas Brunswick’s music blasted through the arena. The HAW World Champion walked out slowly, first taking in the crowd, before composing himself, and very slowly, began walking to the ring.
Edward Findleton: Douglas Brunswick has been in the zone all day. He hasn’t talked, he’s been serious, and ready for this match.
THE Casey Gains: Winning this title last year meant so much to him, but I think the pressure he’s put on himself to pull this feat off, to defend the HAW World Championship successfully for the full year, makes this the biggest match of his life.
Brunswick had finally made it to the steps, and before entering the ring, he took the title off his waist, and held it in front of him, staring at it and imprinting this is what he’s fighting for. After a long while, he finally ran up the steps, climbed the ropes, and held the title up for the roaring crowd, before coming into the ring and giving it to referee Dennis Thompson, and facing the ramp for his opponents.
Georgios Stanellis’s theme started, and as the camera showed the top of the stage, a lifelike marble statue was on stage, showing Stanellis holding Kitty Kayleen in his arms. Stanellis came out a few moments later with Kitty, and the two recreated the pose, before kissing. With that, the two walked hand in hand down to the ring, looking extraordinarily confident.
The jumbotron showed an image of a pistol, which began to rapidly fire. The pistol’s chamber showed a final round, which fired, and Cole Arcane’s music started. At the top of the ramp, a thin sheet of paper was across the entryway, and silhouetted with a man holding a title, only for a second silhouette to hit a running bulldog on the figure. The paper then ripped, as Cole Arcane burst through. Intense and ready, Cole Arcane walked down to the ring with a purpose.
Fun Fight Machine’s music and jumbotron started to play, before cutting off. Then briefly, his second theme and jumbotron started, also before ending. A clip of him winning his first title played again with Edward’s commentary.
Old Edward Findleton: And Fun Fight Machine, he somehow, he somehow became the World Champion!
Fun Fight Machine’s first ever HAW Theme started up, and coming out in his debut fear, Fun Fight Machine ran out. He tried to hype the crowd up his whole way down, slapping fan’s hands and encouraging the crowd to make noise. Fun got into the ring, standing on the ropes, still raising his hands up for the crowd to cheer, but his music suddenly got cut off as Phoenix’s began.
This time the jumbotron showed a fictional comic book of Phoenix. It showed him hitting successful wrestling moves on each of the other seven wrestlers in this match, the final images in the comic him standing on the rope, then jumping with the Phoenix Splash, connecting to Fun Fight Machine, pinning him, and winning the World title. Moments later, Phoenix ran out, and he tried to hype the crowd up too, almost copying Fun Fight Machine’s entrance move for move all the way down to the ring.
At the top of the stage, a large choir had come out, and as things started to quiet down, they began to hum the beginning of Pastor James’ theme. As Pastor James walked out, his hands up in the air in prayer, the choir and some of the audience hummed along, some fans praying to Pastor James as he walked by.
The beginning rumbles of Leon Baron’s music started, and a huge pyro went off. Through the smoke and fire, Leon Baron emerged, letting out a roar. He paced around at the top of the stage, before marching down to the ring. At appropriate moments in his music, he would punch and kick, and more pyro would go over around the arena, culminating with a final explosion from the ringpost as he jumped from the ground to the apron. Baron got into the ring and immediately ran the ropes, getting ready, until the lights in the arena dimmed.
At the top of the ramp, water began to fall from above, and a lighthouse had been placed at the top of the stage, a light rotating around in its center.. The sounds of rain, and flashes of thunder began, as the familiar dramatic sea shanty started. As the light stopped rotating, a silhouette of a man in a raincoat stood in front of it, culminating with a lightning flash that lit up the face of Mitchell Row. Row descended from the lighthouse, walking to the ring and tossing his rain coat into the crowd, looking ready for the fight as he entered.
Edward Findleton: All eight wrestlers are in! This will be an elimination match!
Eve Solace: Dennis Thompson needs to ring this bell soon, it looks like a powder keg, these guys are all ready to go!
The crowd was cheering, all wrestlers were in position, and Dennis Thompson took the HAW World Title, and held it up. He then passed it off to the time keeper, made contact with all the wrestlers, then called for the bell. With that sound, the match was on, and all eight men rushed towards each other. There were a few quick takedowns, slams, and strikes, and each man eventually ended up back on the ropes, all eight once again in a staredown. At that point, Stanellis took a few steps forward into the center of all the wrestlers, and started urging them all to team up, then pointed at Mitchell Row as the target. Stanellis told them to all attack him, only for Leon Baron to grab Stanellis and hit him with a fisherman's suplex.
Arcane quickly capitalized and attacked Baron at that point, and the two brawled around the ring. Brunswick wanted to get in on some action, so he approached the wrestler closest to him, Mitchell Row, and the two locked up. Pastor James then started to approach Phoenix, who quickly stood next to Fun Fight Machine. Before attacking, Phoenix started talking, frantically pointing to Fun Fight Machine, then Pastor James.
Phoenix: Come on! Men of Power reunion!
Phoenix put his hand in front of him, urging James and Fun to place theirs on top of his. Fun Fight Machine did so reluctantly, and after a pause, so did Pastor James.
Edward Findleton: A lot of call backs tonight, but I didn’t think we’d see Fun Fight Machine aligning with James again!
The three man alliance then started to work together, if a wrestler was slammed, they’d get a few stomps in. If someone went after an alliance member, the other two would come in for help. The alliance was working well, until the other five started to notice, and regrouped on the opposite side of the ring, a five on three showdown looming.
THE Casey Gains: What a strange five right there, Brunswick, Arcane, Baron, and surprisingly working together, Stanellis and Row.
The Stanellis and Row aspect of this alliance was very strained, as Row was glaring at Stanellis, but also repeatedly staring down the three on the opposite side. Stanellis meanwhile, looked terrified. Despite the tension, Cole Arcane led a charge, going after Pastor James, while Row went after Fun Fight Machine and Stanellis attacked Phoenix. The three on three fight spilled out of the ring, and staying behind in the ring now was Brunswick and Leon Baron.
The two turned towards each, knowing it was time to wrestle. Each man tried to hit the other with a slam, and each time the other managed to reverse. Brunswick was able to get a few arm drag takedowns but each time Baron would get right back up. Brunswick started with a series of small packages pins, with Baron constantly kicking out, but Brunswick would make sure to deliver an elbow right after the kick out.
Baron was starting to get worn down, and Brunswick grabbed him, and went for the Lifting Reverse DDT, but Baron muscled his way out of Douglas’s grip. Baron tried for another suplex, but Brunswick blocked, gave another elbow shot, and went for another Lifting Reverse DDT. Baron reversed it this time however, by jumping, and flipping behind Brunswick, landing on his feet. As Brunswick turned around, Baron kicked him in the stomach, and with Brunswick hunched over, Leon Baron hit a Canadian Destroyer. He went for the cover, and picked up the three count as an audible gasp from the crowd was heard.
Edward Findleton: I don’t believe it! I don’t believe it!
Eve Solace: It’s tough to win this match, but I don’t think anyone predicted Brunswick would be first one out!
Brunswick rolled out of the ring, absolutely disappointed in himself. He retreated to the back, his hands on the back of his head in disbelief, while Baron paced around the ring, and action started to spill back in.
Stanellis had gotten the upper hand on Phoenix, while Row had taken control over Fun Fight Machine, and Baron got himself involved with Arcane and James. As Stanellis looked over and saw Row was stomping on Fun Fight Machine, Georgios took the opportunity to grab Mitchell Row and hit a quick neckbreaker.
Stanellis smiled wide, proud of the sneak attack, and motioned for Kitty to come into the ring. Despite all the chaos going on, Georgios and Kitty started to make out in the ring, not a care in the world. When the kiss finally broke, Stanellis looked to the side, and Row was now up, staring him down. Stanellis started to apologize, but Row charged, getting ready for a Spear. Stanellis in panic grabbed Kitty and tossed her in the path of Mitchell Row, who hit Kitty with the Spear.
THE Casey Gains: No! No!
Row was honestly a bit shocked as he stood up, and Stanellis quickly grabbed Row with a roll up.
THE Casey Gains: Yes! Get him!
Row kicked out, using his feet to push Georgios away. Georgios stumbled backwards, bouncing off the ropes, and Mitchell Row jumped to his feet and hit a quick Spear on Georgios Stanellis rebounding. He then picked up Stanellis and delivered a Fireman’s Carry Slam, hitting the mat right next to Kitty. Row quickly covered, and eliminated Stanellis with a three count.
Eve Solace: Yeah! I mean, as an impartial announcer, what a sequence from Mitchell Row!
THE Casey Gains: Whatever! Another million in the bank for this wonderful couple wouldn’t have meant anything! They just need to go home, relax, and get away from that menace!
Mitchell stood proudly, but only for a few moments until Phoenix and Fun tossed him outside. They saw Baron, Arcane, and James battling it out, and The Firing Squad went after Baron, double teaming him and tossing him out as well.
The three person alliance was looking strong, and Arcane was now alone in the middle. Fun charged him but Arcane did a back body drop outside the ring to Fun. Phoenix approached and Arcane hit a solid chop stunning him. Cole was able to outwork Pastor James, and hit him with a Running Bulldog. He saw Phoenix had mostly regained his composure, but still a bit dazed, so Arcane made sure to hit a Running Bulldog to him as well. Arcane went for the cover on Phoenix, but Fun ran into the ring and broke it up at the last moment.
Edward Findleton: It’s an elimination match but Fun Fight Machine deciding its best to save his partner!
Arcane was angry, about to go after Fun, when Row slid back into the ring, pushed Arcane aside, and hit Fun Fight Machine with the spear. Even more upset now, Arcane attacked Row. Phoenix was now on his feet, standing alone and taking in the scene when his eyes stopped on an unconscious Fun Fight Machine. Phoenix quickly covered Fun, and eliminated his partner.
As Fun Fight Machine came to, he looked at Phoenix, hurt. Fun could be heard yelling he saved Phoenix, and Phoenix was yelling back he never knew and was sorry. A disappointed Fun walked to the back, and Phoenix ran his hand through his hair like he made a huge mistake.
At that point, Pastor James saw what had happened. Phoenix tried to offer an explanation, but James instead hit him in the face with a forearm. Phoenix started to back up, and backed up into Cole Arcane who was still wrestling Mitchell Row, but had grounded Row. On instinct, Arcane turned around to swing, but Phoenix ducked, and Arcane connected with James. Those two locked eyes, and once again, started brawling, eventually spilling outside the ring.
Phoenix went to take a breather, but turned to see Mitchel Row, still on the ground from the damage Arcane did. Phoenix eyed the top rope and ran to climb.
Eve Solace: Phoenix might be looking to do what he couldn’t against row at End of the Trail 2022!
Phoenix started getting ready for a Phoenix Splash, and jumped. Row quickly rolled out of the way, but Phoenix adjusted in midair and was able to land and roll through. Row ran and tried to Spear Phoenix, but he leapt over Row, and Row hit the turnbuckles, dazed. Phoenix took the opportunity to roll Row up, and put his feet on the ropes for leverage. Dennis Thompson went for the count, but at two and a half Leon Baron grabbed Phoenix’s feet and pulled him off. Phoenix was bewildered, and began yelling at Baron. Baron responded by immediately hitting the Canadian Destroyer, and went right into a pin that eliminated Phoenix.
Row had got up again, and looked at Baron, and gave him a head nod of appreciation for saving him. Baron extended his hand for a shake, and Row reciprocated. Then, the two big men just started exchanging a series of powerful slams.
Each man was laboring hard and definitely in pain. Row picked up Baron and hit a running powerslam. He went to pick Baron up, who hit a quick shot to the gut and delivered a samoan drop. Leon stood over Mitchell, then got him in position for the Canadian Destroyer. But Row began to lift him up, got him into his shoulders, and threw Baron to the mat with the Fireman’s Carry Slam. He quickly covered, and got the three count.
Edward Findleton: Leon Baron is out! An amazing debut that just came up short!
As Row rolled off of Baron, he slowly got to his knees, catching his breath. This proved to be a mistake, as Arcane had gotten back into the ring, crept behind Row, and Mitchell Row had his head driven into the mat by a Running Bulldog. Arcane covered Row, and he couldn’t kick out.
Arcane stood up, then leaned against the turnbuckles. On the opposite side of the ring, a limping Pastor James climbed through the ropes, resting against the ropes as well. The two long time rivals stared each other down.
Edward Findleton: It comes down to this! Pastor James and Cole Arcane, the title on the line!
The violent rage these two men had towards each other returned, and approached each other. They grappled, and each man fought dirty. There was scratching, biting, punching, headbutts, anything they could do to inflict pain on each other.
The barbaric battle continued, until Ivy Clarke and Dixie Boyle came running out and went to opposite sides of the ring, cheering on Pastor James. Arcane had managed to break free of the brawl and hit a quick russian leg sweep to down James. But Arcane was not happy at the new company. He got Dennis Thompson’s attention and went over to Dixie, pointing for her to head to the back. Dixie stood there arguing that she wasn’t doing anything.
Pastor James had started to get up. He started to approach Arcane from behind, when Ivy Clarke slid into the ring. She got behind James, and hit him from behind with a low blow, dropping him to his knees. Ivy quickly left the ring, and Arcane turned around to immediately hit the Running Bulldog to James.
Edward Findleton: What the hell?!
For the first time in a long time, Arcane smiled. He walked over to Pastor James and hooked the leg.
Edward Findleton: Is this it?! One! Two! Thr- No! He kicked out! Pastor James kicked out! The match continues!
Arcane’s smile was gone, and outside the ring Ivy Clarke couldn’t believe it. Dixie had seen enough, and rushed to the opposite side. She attacked Dixie Boyle, and hit a quick Gut Wrench Suplex to Ivy outside the ring.
Inside, Cole paced around the ring, waiting for Pastor James to get up, but he was still down. Arcane then glanced outside, and saw Dixie Boyle. Arcane rolled out of the ring and grabbed her by the hair. Dixie struggled and screamed, and Arcane looked like he was about to perform some attack on her, when James yelled out Arcane’s name. Slowly, James managed to get to his knees. Cole Arcane let go of Dixie, got into the ring, abd stared him down, and Pastor James put his arms out like a prayer to God.
Cole bounced off the ropes behind him to get a running start, and ran past James to get ready for another Running Bulldog. But James stood up, and on the rebound caught Cole Arcane with his arms and lifted him up into a manhattan drop. Cole was stunned, hobbled around, right back into Pastor James who hit a sidewalk slam. James then lifted Arcane
Edward Findleton: One! Two! Three! That’s it! That’s the match! Pastor James has done it! He’s the new HAW World Champion!
Eve Solace: A third World title reign for Pastor James!
THE Casey Gains: And a million dollars to go along with it!
Dixie Boyle took the HAW World Championship, and rushed into the ring to give it to James. James raised the title in one hand, and hugged Dixie with his other arm. He climbed the ropes and sat on the top rope, absolutely exhausted.
Edward Findleton: I’ve gotta say, I don’t know exactly how that man thinks, but I do think he’s grown over the past few years.
THE Casey Gains: He’s certainly come a long way from wanting to beat you up, Edward. And now, Pastor James is World Champion.
Eve Solace: An excellent match, a great victory, but if I’m being honest, I already can’t wait until the spring, because there was quite a bit of betrayals in that match!
Edward Findleton: I’m with you on that! Well folks, thank you for joining us at End of the Trail 2025! For Eve Solace and THE Casey Gains, I’m Edward Findleton. We’ll see you next year! Goodnight!
The show ended on a final shot, of James holding the title up proudly, Dixie Boyle and a celebratory pyro behind him.
