Season 5 rolls on, and Shotcaller makes his first Pure Gold Championships title defense against the aging former fan favorite, Jumpstart! Will Jumpstart keep it clean, or will Violence help him once again?
Also on the card, newcomer Whatevs returns to the ring, KCM defends his Silver Championship against Dr. Dean, and more!
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Golden Pro Wrestling theme song “The Sound” by Switchfoot begins to play…
THIS!
IS!
GOLDEN!
PRO!
WRESTLING!
The camera fades into the FedExForum where thousands of fans have already filled into their seats on the floor, and every level within the entire arena!
The camera pans the arena and fans, providing shots of the ring, ramp, intro stage and Gold Screen.
The broadcast transitions to a two-shot of Golden Pro Wrestling’s announcer team.
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Rudy Mac: Welcome BACK to Golden Pro Wrestling for Gold Strike 23! I’m Rudy Mac, your Memphis rasslin’ expert, and sitting next to me is a man who lives off pilot crackers, DeShawn Brannon!
DeShawn: Hey hey hey!
Rudy Mac: DeShawn, things are cruising along for Season 5 of GPW, and the action is gaining momentum. We’re already to the point of the mid-season Pure Gold Championship match where Shotcaller is going to play defense against Jumpstart!
DeShawn: It might be tough if Violence is helping Jumpstart!
Rudy Mac: That’s a big IF! Violence came out of nowhere at Gold Strike 22 to help Jumpstart defeat Golden Ben Miller, but to be honest, Jumpstart looked as surprised as the rest of us!
DeShawn: Maybe ol’ Jumpstart’s memory is starting to go and doesn’t remember making the deal!
Rudy Mac: DeShawn! Jumpstart is maybe in his mid-to-late 40s, and while he’s in the twilight of his career, I doubt his mental faculties are in decline!
DeShawn: Old is old!
Rudy Mac: Anyways, we also have some other great matches in store including Whatevs vs. Seth Kard, Saga vs. Decade, plus Dr. Dean gets a chance to win the Silver Championship match a second time!
DeShawn: Aren’t you going to let the fans in on your little secret?
Rudy Mac: Okay, okay! We also have the privilege of giving you an update on the whereabouts of Fuse Makoto!
DeShawn: I can’t wait! Fuse Makoto is in-
Rudy Mac: Not yet, not yet, DeShawn!
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“Destruction” by Joywave begins to play out the speaker system, and Jumpstart cautiously walks onto the entrance stage under the Gold Screen.
BOO!!!
Rudy Mac: I guess it wouldn’t be Season 5 if Jumpstart wasn’t the focus of the start of the show. He’s been EVERYWHERE every Gold Strike!
The veteran Canadian wrestler gets down to the ring and makes a double hop: once onto the ring apron and then again over the top rope. He noticeably winces when he lands in the ring.
DeShawn: That bum knee is still nagging him!
A production assistant hands a microphone in from ringside while the fans continue to jeer the once-fan favorite.
BOO!!!
After waiting a few moments until the booing subsides, the former Silver Champion raises the microphone to his lips.
Jumpstart: Listen… listen…
An impromptu chant kicks up amongst the crowd.
WASHED-UP! WASHED-UP! WASHED-UP!
It finally fades out.
Jumpstart: Okay, I get it. But I’m here because I need to be honest with everyone here.
Rudy Mac: Some honesty? What’s this all about!?
Jumpstart: I came to GPW with the best intentions, and I obviously was a step behind the young guns on this roster. And instead of fighting through it and making you all proud… I resorted to cheating. The ‘low blow’ is now as synonymous with me as as the Start-Up…
The Golden Pro Wrestling fans buzz in curiosity.
Jumpstart: But some things have happened that have made me take a hard look in the mirror. Firstly, I’m on borrowed time. I don’t care what future opponent knows, but my knee is my Achilles heel right now.
DeShawn: I don’t mean to be the grammar police, but I do believe he means R. Kelly’s heel!
Rudy Mac: That’s not right, DeShawn, but we’ll deal with that later!
Jumpstart: It was only a matter of time until I lost the Silver Championship, and instead of thinking wisely about the next steps of my career, I pushed for a shot at the Pure Gold Championship… which I got.
BOO!!!
Jumpstart: And, you fans deserve to boo! But, please, not for me. After meeting the young man with cancer, Brandon, before my match against Golden Ben Miller…
The crowd gives a raucous pop for GBM, their ultimate fan favorite.
Jumpstart: I made a tough decision to wrestle clean and let the chips fall where they may.
Rudy Mac: To be honest, that was the impression I got!
Jumpstart: And that’s exactly what I was doing! Then Violence came from NOWHERE!
BOO!!!
Jumpstart: I just wanted to come out here and tell everyone TWO things! One, from here on out I’m wrestling for my biggest fan, BRANDON! Get well, buddy, you’re a fighter as much as anyone at Golden Pro Wrestling.
The fans in attendance at Gold Strike 23 produce a loud cheer in support of the sickly child likely watching from the hospital.
Jumpstart: And SECOND, I don’t care what happens, I’m not going to be remembered as a washed-up cheater!
It’s strangely quiet in FedExForum before the veteran Canadian wrestler speaks again.
Jumpstart: I’m going CLEAN in the RING!
The crowd POPS at the change in heart.
Rudy Mac: Does this mean we’re getting old school Jumpstart!?
DeShawn: It’s all I’ve ever wanted!
Jumpstart: And we’re running it back TONIGHT when I take down Shotcaller with everything I’ve got! No cheating, no Violence, just old school Jumpstart putting on a clinic!
Everyone in the arena continues to cheer at Jumpstart’s pledge.
“Destruction” by Joywave begins to play again and Jumpstart drops the microphone and climbs out of the ring and heads backstage. The crowd exudes positivity as the show moves on.
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Gold Strike 23 transitions backstage where Whatevs is warming up directly behind the entrance curtain. The crowd gives a light pop for the no-nonsense wrestler who, by all appearances, just wants to compete.
They stretch their neck to each side and then enter a light jog. Behind Whatevs, a large blue-haired oaf approaches.
BOO!!!
Awoke: Hey there friend, I’m just stopping by to see how you’re doing.
Golden Pro Wrestling’s newest wrestler eyes Awoke suspiciously.
Whatevs: Um, I’m fine. Thanks.
The San Francisco SJW furrows his brow.
Awoke: Well, I wish you luck with your next match! Crosscheck Beck is obviously a representation of toxic masculinity, and your victory will go a long way toward undermining the patriarchy.
Whatevs: I really have no clue what you’re talking about. Crosscheck Beck is just a hockey player, and I love hockey. Dude seems cool.
With wide eyes, Awoke takes a step back, and then grins as if entertained.
Awoke: ‘Dude seems cool’? I’m just going to assume that this is some sort of Gen Z ironic humor. Well done, haha! Anyways, down with the patriarchy!
Before Whatevs can respond, Awoke turns and walks off toward a hallway, and they shake their head in confusion.
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The show continues inside the main arena of FedExForum, and “Talk Amongst Yourselves” by Grand National begins to play. Gold Strike 23’s crowd gives a warm reception while Whatevs walks out and makes their way down to the ring.
Rudy Mac: Whatevs is back in action for their second Golden Pro Wrestling match! Obviously, Whatevs is an animal of a different breed, but telling everyone about it doesn’t seem to be their M.O.
DeShawn: Is it me or is it refreshing not to have a bunch of crap shoved down your throat!?
Rudy Mac: Indeed!
After Whatevs gets into the ring, the music switches to “Bottom of a Bottle” by Smile Empty Soul, and the crowd gives a major pop for its former local hockey enforcer. Crosscheck Beck jogs out in full hockey gear and runs down to the ring.
Rudy Mac: And now we’re going to get another look at Crosscheck Beck, who is coming off a Silver Championship loss to Jumpstart at the Season 4 finale, Allegiance!
DeShawn: If only the Silver Championship were wrapped around his waist!
Rudy Mac: But then we wouldn’t have experienced King Crab Mack’s moment of triumph over Jumpstart at Gold Strike 21!
The two wrestlers square up in the middle of the ring and bell dings. Things start off with a tie-up, and then a series of straight-forward wrestling moves by Whatevs.
Rudy Mac: Whatevs is really bringing some solid traditional Greco-Roman style!
Whatevs knees Crosscheck Beck in the stomach and drills a German suplex into a pin attempt.
1… 2… NO!!!
Things continue, and Crosscheck Beck begins his brawler attack, pushing Whatevs into a corner and pummeling them with right hands.
DeShawn: Crosscheck Beck with some solid traditional hockey-fight style!
Crosscheck Beck pulls Whatevs into mid-ring and throws them down with a neckbreaker.
1… 2… NO!!!
Rudy Mac: They’re really going back-and-forth!
The next advantage goes to Whatevs, and they spear Crosscheck Beck mid-ring. When the former Memphis Bears hockey player gets to his feet, Whatevs pulls him in from behind and nails a belly-to-back suplex.
THE WHATEVER!!!
1… 2… … NO!!!
Rudy Mac: Crosscheck Beck is showing that last season’s hot run was no fluke! Will he turn this around!?
As if on cue, the momentum swings back in Crosscheck Beck’s favor. He lays a beatdown on Whatevs and then lifts them into a jumping vertical suplex.
MAJOR PENALTY!!!
Suddenly, the crowd erupts unhappily as Awoke can be seen jogging down to the ring while Crosscheck Beck goes for the cover.
BOO!!!
Rudy Mac: Look out Beck! You’ve got company!
1… 2… …
Awoke climbs into the ring and stomps on Crosscheck Beck’s head, and the referee instantly pops to their feet and calls for the bell.
Rudy Mac: Hogwash! Whatevs might have been losing but Awoke just stole a good match from the fans!
The blue-haired oaf climbs out of the ring and jogs back up the ramp leaving Whatevs and Crosscheck Beck in the ring with perturbed face.
Winner:
Crosscheck Beck via Disqualification
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The show moves and transitions to a backstage hallway where Golden Ben Miller is walking casually in his street clothes. The fans inside the arena POP HUGE for their Golden Warhorse.
As he turns a corner, a man is waiting patiently along the wall. He wears a blue jacket with ‘FBI’ on its chest, and GBM eyes him suspiciously.
Agent Leonard: Ben Miller?
Golden Ben Miller stops and gives him a nod in recognition.
GBM: I take it you’re Agent Leonard.
The federal gumshoe smiles politely.
Agent Leonard: What gave it away? Just kidding… but all jokes aside, I would like to talk to you.
GBM: What can I do for you?
Agent Leonard: Well, since you know who I am, then you know that I’m looking into the activities of one, Draconian. I’m trying to gather as much information as I can, and considering your recent communication with his group, I thought I would come to you.
Golden Ben Miller looks up as if deep in thought and then looks squarely back at the FBI official.
GBM: I’m sorry sir, but I’m afraid there’s not much I can tell you that you haven’t seen watching on TV. There are some outlandish claims going on, and I’m trying to get the bottom of everything same as you.
Agent Leonard: Then I was thinking we could, perhaps, work together? If you can help me get my hands on this Draconian, the United States government can make it well worth your while.
The Golden Warhorse makes a confused face.
GBM: I’m sorry, but that’s just not how things work around here. We may have differences, but it’s settled in the ring. There’s nothing I can do for you.
A look of disappointment flashes across Agent Leonard’s.
Agent Leonard: Well, I’m sorry to hear about that… but I’m warning you, Ben. If you’re a part of this whole conspiracy, you will be a part of the consequences.
The FBI agent immediately turns and walks off down the hallway leaving GBM with a look of concern.
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Gold Strike 23 returns to the main arena of FedExForum, and the crowd buzzes until the music “I Can See It In Your Face” by Pretty Lights hits the speaker system. The crowd gives a mixed reaction as Saga walks out from backstage.
Rudy Mac: Here comes the supposed family member of the great Anoaʻi family, Saga!
DeShawn: Under-developed, and under-performing!
Rudy Mac: We’ll see how he does tonight because he’s already lost to Decade once before!
Saga climbs into the ring and begins to flex and present himself to the fans to curry reaction, which he barely receives.
The music switches to “Novacain” by 10 Years, and the crowd gives a much louder, yet also mixed reaction when the young Canadian wrestler emerges onto the entrance stage. But Dr. Dean follows him and prompts a truly hostile reaction.
BOO!!!
Rudy Mac: Decade has voluntarily sought the care of Dr. Dean in order to get his alter ego under control!
DeShawn: That doesn’t seem like a good idea!
The two make their way to the ringside but stop for a moment. A handheld camera microphone is able to pick up a pre-match conversation between them.
Dr. Dean: Remember what I told you, Decade. As soon as your alter ego begins to emerge, let it. You cannot overcome what you cannot understand! Let it breathe through you, and we’ll analyze it later!
Decade: Okay… Dr. Dean.
The former fan favorite climbs into the ring in his signature blue wrestling attire, meanwhile Dr. Dean grins and rubs his hands together suspiciously.
Rudy Mac: I don’t like the look of this! Dr. Dean may not have Decade’s best interests in mind!
Saga and Decade square off in the middle of the ring and immediately lock up after the bell rings. Both wrestlers share similar all-around technical wrestling styles, and it shows.
After swapping a series of suplexes, Saga pulls in Decade and delivers a russian leg sweep.
1… 2… NO!!!
Decade gets up and regroups and whips Saga into the corner. He attempts a rushed shoulder block, which Saga sidesteps and lets Decade crash into the turnbuckle.
DeShawn: Ouchie!
Saga grabs hold of Decade and lifts him up before nailing a fireman’s carry neckbreaker.
STORY’S END!!!
Rudy Mac: That might do it for Saga’s first GPW victory!
1… 2… … NO!!!
The proud Pacific Islander gets up with a frustrated look, but so does Decade. In fact, Decade’s eyes go wild, and he begins to claw at his hair.
Down at ringside, Dr. Dean smiles and talks to himself.
Dr. Dean: Yes! Yes!
Decade lets loose a rageful roar while Saga stands in front of him confused.
Rudy Mac: Dr. Dean wanted Decade’s alter ego to come out, and that’s what’s happening!
The young Canadian wrestler goes berserk and lunges at Saga, who cannot contain the onslaught. Decade delivers several destructive moves and finishes with an inverted suplex.
A PERFECT 10!!!
1… 2… … 3!!!
Rudy Mac: My gosh! Is Decade even anywhere in that sick mind anymore?!
Decade gets to his feet and shakes his head as if regaining control. He takes a look at Saga’s inert body below him and immediately makes his way out of the ring.
Dr. Dean pats him on the back and escorts him up the ramp to backstage, all while Decade wears a confused, nervous face.
Winner:
Decade via A Perfect 10
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After the Saga, Dr. Dean and Decade return backstage, the arena POPS OFF when “My Hero” by Foo Fighters pumps through the speaker system.
Rudy Mac and DeShawn: YES!
Golden Ben Miller comes walking out onto the entrance stage in street clothes and throws an arm up in recognition of the fans. He continues to make his way to the ring while the cheering only increases in volume.
Rudy Mac: Golden Ben Miller may have, quote unquote, lost to Jumpstart last week, but we know he’s never deterred!
DeShawn: And it seems like he’s got other things going on, like Draconium!
GBM climbs into the ring and takes his time to climb up the turnbuckle and again throws his arm up to the fans.
Rudy Mac: That’s right! Last week he put a message out to Queen Solis, and she told him to make sure he showed up to Gold Strike 23!
DeShawn: So here he is!
A production assistant hands the Golden Warhorse a microphone from ringside, and he casually walks to the middle of the ring. But before he can begin to speak, the fans break into a chant.
G-B-M! G-B-M! G-B-M!
Golden Ben Miller lets the fans have their fun, and it eventually subsides so he can speak.
GBM: Hello, Memphis faithful!
The crowd gives another quick cheer.
GBM: Last week, I told everyone that my focus is SQUARELY on saving our beloved FLIP COSTA!
Another pop emanates from the crowd at the mention of GPW’s best looking wrestler.
DeShawn: If anyone can save Flip, it’s Golden Ben Miller!
Golden Ben Miller’s face turns sour, and he furrows his brow.
GBM: And then I heard directly from the queen bee, Solis!
BOO!!!
GBM: Solis, you wanted me to show up to Gold Strike 23… WELL I’M HERE!
After a brief pause, the lights inside the arena darken and five instances of blue energy begin to emanate from the middle of the ring. Within mere moments, Queen Solis, the Draconian, Flip Costa and the Dominars stand in front of Golden Ben Miller.
The leader of Draconium, Queen Solis, regally presents herself while gripping her powerful scepter.
BOO!!!
FedExForum is nearly shaking at its foundation with the level of anger the GPW fans are expressing. When it subsides, the lights return to normal illumination and Queen Solis begins to inexplicably speak through the speaker system without a microphone.
Queen Solis: Ah, the Golden Ben Mill-ah. I have been waiting for this moment to meet you.
GBM: Let’s skip the chit chat, lady.
Before Golden Ben Miller continues, he notices the large bump of Queen Solis’ stomach. She smiles and rubs a hand over it.
Rudy Mac: Queen Solis looks pregnant! What’s going on here!?
Queen Solis: I suppose you’re wondering about… this?
Golden Ben Miller looks mystified, but the leader of Draconium continues.
Queen Solis: If the hu-mahn race must know, I am with child. A prince whose father is FLIP DRACO!
The Golden Pro Wrestling fans within FedExForum let out a loud cry of confusion and excitement at the dramatic turn of events.
GBM: What… how!?
Queen Solis: Oh, you pah-thetic hu-mahns. My species is far more advanced in genetic manipulation, and it was quite easy to ensure compatibility.
Behind Queen Solis, Flip Draco stares forward silently.
GBM: This has gone far enough, Solis!
Before he can continue, Queen Solis raises her voice and nearly blows out the arena speaker system.
Queen Solis: THAT’S QUEEN SOLIS!
Everyone goes silent, including Golden Ben Miller who looks taken aback at the Draconium leader’s outburst.
Queen Solis: Now, I know you are only here to rescue your friend, which I both admire and pity. Hu-mahns are so easily ruled by their emotions.
GBM: What’s it going to take… Solis!?
Looking perturbed by the continued absence of her royal title, Queen Solis continues.
Queen Solis: Now that I have been given my expected prince, I will admit I have little usage for Flip Draco… except for the fact that he is an impressive warrior that only provides further value to my goals.
GBM: What the hell are your talking about!? Why are you even here!?
She smirks in response.
Queen Solis: It’s quite simple, Golden Ben Mill-ah. I am here to rule your pathetic planet, and make it yet another vassal of my star empire!
BOO!!!
GBM: NO! That’s NOT going to happen on my watch! And it starts with getting my friend BACK!
Queen Solis: Hahaha! You amuse me Golden Ben Mill-ah. In fact, I shall not let this amusement end, and I will even give you a chance to save your friend. General!
Behind the queen, the Draconian steps forward with an emotionless face.
Queen Solis: And it will be quite simple. If you can defeat the Draconian at Gold Strike 24, I will return Flip Draco to your planet fully restored as Flip Costa.
The GPW fans pop at the opportunity being presented.
GBM: Okay… DEAL!
Queen Solis: Then it is done… we will see you at Gold Strike 24!
Again, the lights dim and the five members of Draconium dissolve to blue energy and vanish from the ring, presumably returning to their spaceship in orbit around Earth.
The arena buzzes with anxiety as Golden Ben Miller stands in the ring with his microphone.
GBM: You heard it folks… Gold Strike 24… Flip Costa is COMING HOME!
The crowd POPS for Golden Ben Miller’s pronouncement, and “My Hero” by Foo Fighters begins to play again.
Rudy Mac: It’s happening! Flip Costa might be coming home!
Golden Ben Miller climbs out of the ring and heads back up the ramp to backstage leaving the fans in a frenzy.
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Once Golden Ben Miller returns backstage, the crowd buzzes inside the main arena of FedExForum and the Gold Strike 23 transmission cuts a two-shot of GPW’s announcer duo.
Rudy Mac: Next up folks, we have a very important message from Golden Pro Wrestling, and it involves the former Pure Gold Champion, Fuse Makoto!
DeShawn: Where are you, Fuse!?
Rudy Mac: That’s what EVERYONE is asking! After losing the title to Shotcaller at the Season 4 finale, Allegiance, Fuse Makoto has been missing in action. BUT we are excited to tell you that Golden Pro Wrestling has a VERY IMPORTANT announcement!
As if on cue, the arena lighting dims, and the Gold Screen above the entrance stages begins to play some sort of promotional video.
It first dissolves into several still shots of Fuse Makoto from early on in his GPW career, which prompts the crowd to cry out in excitement and anticipation.
Narrator: From the land of the rising sun, a force arrived in Memphis, Tennessee.
The video begins to show in-ring highlights by Fuse Makoto including his victories over Abel Unstable, Ejercito de Juan, and Golden Ben Miller.
Narrator: Victory after victory led him to a showdown against the man who dishonored his family.
The crowd POPS HUGE as the highlight plays of Fuse Makoto putting on his family headband in the middle of the Pure Gold Championship match against Violence, and then delivering his Nikuya Strike to seal the victory. The fans then watch as Fuse Makoto has the Pure Gold Championship strapped around his waist.
Narrator: As the Pure Gold Champion, he took on all challengers.
Highlights of his factory against the Draconian and Awoke play, and then more highlights from the god-awfully violent Fort Knocks match. It ends with Fuse Makoto holding his staff inside the Fort Knocks cage while wearing the Pure Gold Championship with blood splattered all over his body.
Narrator: Then it was all gone…
Footage begins to show Da Bloodz beating down Fuse Makoto backstage, and then Da Bloodz interfering in the Pure Gold Championship title match against Shotcaller. It culminates in Shotcaller covering Fuse’s body and winning the match.
BOO!!!
The Gold Screen dissolves to black.
Narrator: Fuse Makoto has been gone… but he is coming BACK!
The spinning logo of Gold Strike 25 plays on the Gold Screen.
Narrator: Gold Strike 25, Fuse Makoto will be returning to GPW action. GET. YOUR. TICKETS!
The Gold Screen returns to the standard Golden Pro Wrestling logo, and the fans cheer wildly in excitement. The show’s transmission returns to the two-shot of Rudy Mac and DeShawn.
Rudy Mac: That’s right, folks! Fuse Makoto is going to be BACK right before the Season 5 finale, Starfall!
DeShawn: Don’t forget the good stuff!
Rudy Mac: Of course! And we are PUMPED to announce that Fuse Makoto will be participating in a Pure Gold Championship #1 Contender match for the opportunity to retake his belt at Starfall!
DeShawn: How does Commissioner Meloche make this magic happen!?
Rudy Mac: And, fans, we’ll be sure to bring you more news as we have it! Get your tickets today!
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The excitement inside FedExForum continues until the song “Down with the Sickness” by Disturbed begins to play.
BOO!!!
Dr. Dean comes walking out in his old school wrestling attire rather than his typical professional doctor outfit. He’s followed by Decade who looks conflicted.
Rudy Mac: Just earlier tonight we saw Dr. Dean come with Decade to the ring for a match against Saga! Looks like it’s Decade’s turn to watch!
DeShawn: Will Dr. Dean let the crazy voices in his head take over!?
Rudy Mac: DeShawn! You’re getting it all mixed up! Decade is the one battling a mental condition! Pay attention!
Before climbing into the ring, Dr. Dean looks carefully at Decade and a handheld camera microphone picks up some conversation.
Dr. Dean: Watch closely now, Decade. I shall show you how to handle an opponent without letting loose any bothersome cerebral concerns!
Decade: But you don’t have my same affliction…
Dr. Dean: Nevertheless! You shall see your potential as a wrestler and as a person… me!
The music switches over to “Slit Wrist Theory” by 36 Crazyfists and the GPW crowd gives an ELECTRIC pop for King Crab Mack. The large orange-clad wrestler walks out confidently with the Silver Championship belt.
Rudy Mac: King Crab Mack is ready for his first title defense! And if this goes anything like his dominant Hardcore Championship run, I expect a win!
DeShawn: I’m hoping for the Full Pot jumping backbreaker!
King Crab Mack hands the Silver Championship belt off to a production assistant for safe keeping and climbs into the ring to face off against Dr. Dean. The bell rings and the two wrestlers begin to circle with one another.
KCM gets the first advantage after clobbering Dr. Dean down with a clothesline, and the crowd cheers in response. He picks Dr. Dean back up, whips him off the rope and nails a sidewalk slam when Dr. Dean returns to mid-ring.
1… 2… NO!!!
Rudy Mac: Dr. Dean is a former Silver Champion himself, so no doubt he knows how hard these matches can be!
The match continues and a few minutes later, Dr. Dean gets KCM into a headlock and delivers a bulldog. With King Crab Mack on the ground, Dr. Dean begins to stomp on his head and then pauses to yell down to Decade at ringside.
Dr. Dean: If the opponent doesn’t have a brain condition, don’t be afraid to give them one!
The leader of Psych Ward climbs over King Crab Mack’s body and pulls his legs up into a Boston Crab.
Rudy Mac: That’s Dr. Dean’s finishing submission move!
THE DIAGNOSIS!!!
King Crab Mack’s face contorts in pain as the referee checks for a tap out.
TA… TA… TA…NO!!!
With a massive feat of strength, King Crab Mack kicks his legs out of Dr. Dean’s grasp, and Dr. Dean goes flying across the ring.
DeShawn: Whoa!
KCM gets back up to his feet and grabs hold of the stumbling Dr. Dean and then delivers a massive jumping backbreaker.
THE FULL POT!!!
1… 2… … 3!!!
The crowd erupts cheering while the Silver Championship belt is handed back to him.
Rudy Mac: King Crab Mack’s first Silver Championship title defense is IN THE BOOKS!
Decade pops into the ring and checks on Dr. Dean, who sits up gingerly holding his back. Dr. Dean angrily shakes off Decade’s helping hand while cursing in frustration.
Dr. Dean: Blasted!
KCM heads out of the ring while the fans continue to cheer.
Winner and STILL Silver Champion:
King Crab Mack via The Full Pot
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Once Dr. Dean, Decade and King Crab Mack have returned backstage, the crowd turns their attention to the Gold Screen. The transmission shows the scene directly behind the entrance curtain where Jumpstart jogs lightly in place warming up.
The crowd gives a mixed reaction, however there is slightly more cheering than normal.
Rudy Mac: Looks like Jumpstart is ready for his title shot just minutes away!
DeShawn: Is it just me, or does it seem like the fans are going to be on Jumpstart’s side tonight!
As Jumpstart stretches from side to side, two black wrestlers in red attire approach him.
BOO!!!
The members of the tag team Da Bloodz and hit men for Shotcaller in the gang 85 Piru both sneer at the veteran Canadian wrestler.
Choo Choo: Yo, check it out, my boy. Little homie here thinks that a little light exercise is going to help him.
The larger member of Da Bloodz chuckles to himself while Jumpstart returns an annoyed gaze in their direction.
Wazzup: He finna be Pure Gold Champion!? I got a betta shot at marryin’ a white gurl!
Finally, Jumpstart retorts and enters a defensive stance.
Jumpstart: Let me guess, you guys are going to jump me before the match like you did Fuse Makoto at Allegiance?
The two homies look at each other and bust up laughing together.
Choo Choo: Nah, dawg. We axed Shotcaller if he wanted us to bust ya up. Ya know what he said?
Wazzup: He said not to botha!
The two Blood gang members of 85 Piru start busting up laughing together. Jumpstart relaxes and puts his hands on his hips.
Jumpstart: Okay, okay, I get it. You’re here to make me feel like shit? Well guess what, I already feel that way! But it changes NOW! I’m going out there for the FANS, and if I see you guys lurking ringside, I’ll take care of you just like I’m going to take care of Shotcaller!
Again, Da Bloodz start laughing together while Wazzup places his hand on Choo Choo’s shoulder bending over in hysterics. They compose themselves after a moment and look back at Jumpstart.
Choo Choo: Don’t worry, cuz. We ain’t even going out there.
Wazzup: Like I said, Shotcaller told us not to botha!
Choo Choo: He said go get him a ho ready for after the show!
Jumpstart scowls while Da Bloodz walk off but then shakes his head and turns to the entrance curtain with a focused face.
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Gold Strike 23’s transmission fades back to a wide pan of the arena where the Golden Pro Wrestling fans buzz anxiously for the main event.
Rudy Mac: It doesn’t look like Jumpstart got the sort of pre-match beatdown from Da Bloodz that Fuse Makoto got at Allegiance, but I have no doubt Shotcaller will give him a stiff match!
DeShawn: Let’s get it on like Donkey Kong!
Rudy Mac: DeShawn! I told you not to mention the arcade game that nearly destroyed my life in the late 1980s by costing me my marriage, my house, and my relationship with my parents!
“Destruction” by Joywave hits the arena speaker system, and the crowd gives a warm pop for Jumpstart as he walks out in his signature red and yellow wrestling attire.
Rudy Mac: I think we can say it… the fans are BACK on Jumpstart’s side!
DeShawn: I’m still protecting myself a little bit because he might still cheat at any time!
Rudy Mac: Tonight will be a major test to see if he’s truly a reformed man!
Jumpstart does his classic double hop, once onto the ring apron and again into the ring, before making a light jog around the squared circle. His music fades out…
I WON’T DENY IT… I’M A STRAIGHT RIDAH…
The iconic intro to Shotcaller’s song, “Ambitionz Az A Ridah,” is noticeably being sang by a different rapper than Tupac.
Rudy Mac: What’s going on here!? This sounds like a live version!
Shotcaller emerges backstage with the Pure Gold Championship slung over his shoulder. Behind him walks a rapper who spits the lyrics with two bodyguards following.
BOO!!!
DeShawn: That’s Moneybagg Yo!
Rudy Mac: In the flesh! My favorite local Memphis rapper!
Moneybagg Yo effortlessly flows through the classic rap song as Shotcaller climbs into the ring.
Rudy Mac: I hate to say it, but he’s doing Tupac justice!
Shotcaller stretches his neck before returning to the side of the ring and handing the belt down to Moneybagg Yo. The local Memphis rapping icon ceases to rap while the beat of the song continues to play, and he makes his way to the announcer booth.
Rudy Mac and DeShawn: Moneybagg Yo!
The rapper sits down and puts on a headset.
Moneybagg Yo: Waz good waz good boyz.
Rudy Mac: This is quite a surprise! Are you going to be calling the match here!?
Moneybagg Yo: That’s fo sho. I know ya’ll hate on my boy Shotcaller, but my dood is da realest G in M-Town right now. I got his back no matter what ya’ll say.
DeShawn: I may not like Shotcaller right now, but I’m willing to put differences aside to chill with you my ni-
Rudy Mac: DeShawn! This is a family show! And I apologize to you about that, Moneybagg Yo!
Moneybagg Yo: Haha, all good all good.
The rapper gives DeShawn a fist bump. Back in the ring, Jumpstart and Shotcaller begin to circle each other and the bell rings ceremoniously to start the match.
Rudy Mac: Can we expect you to join us for every Shotcaller title defense?
Moneybagg Yo: Nah, just dis one time. I’m going on tour but I’ll keep watching on TV.
Rudy Mac: Word! But here we are, Pure Gold Championship match! This is what Golden Pro Wrestling is ALL ABOUT!
Battle kicks off with the two wrestlers clashing in the middle of the ring. The first minute is spent with the athletically inclined wrestlers moving around the ring, reversing each other’s attempts and dazzling the crowd with deft maneuvers.
Shotcaller catches the first advantage with a running knee to the stomach followed by a DDT.
Rudy Mac: Stiff drop by Shotcaller!
1… 2… NO!!!
Rudy Mac: What do you think, Moneybagg Yo!?
Moneybagg Yo: All good all good. Shotcaller will get the 3 count at some point.
The match continues and Jumpstart begins to deliver a concerted beatdown. He pulls Shotcaller to the corner and forces him to the top rope. With a spectacular display of agility, he jumps and wraps his legs around Shotcaller’s head and delivers a huracurrana of the top rope.
DeShawn: Jumpstart apparently has STILL got it!
Moneybagg Yo: No hate, dat was nice.
1… 2… … NO!!!
Rudy Mac: But not ‘nice’ enough!
Jumpstart doesn’t give up and continues to press the advantage against Shotcaller. Shotcaller reverses a move by Jumpstart and pushes the veteran Canadian wrestler off the ropes and nails a spear.
Moneybagg Yo: UHN!
1… 2… … NO!!!
Rudy Mac: This match is living up to its potential!
Despite Jumpstart’s resilience, Shotcaller keeps attacking. He gets Jumpstart up and throws him off the rope once more, but this time he delivers his spear to Jumpstart’s notoriously injured knee.
Rudy Mac: Cheap or smart!? He’s attacking that hurt knee!
Jumpstart visibly winces with pain and holds his knee while laying on the mat. Shotcaller quickly gets up to top rope and leaps out to deliver a flying elbow drop.
Moneybagg Yo: Hit that, yo!
However, at the last moment, Jumpstart rolls out of the way and lets Shotcaller go crashing into the mat.
DeShawn: Okay, I’m re-ordering my Jumpstart pajamas! He’s really giving this everything!
While Shotcaller lays on the mat, Jumpstart scampers to the top rope and launches into a Shooting Star Press.
THE START-UP!!!
Moneybagg Yo: Nah dawg, I bet that ain’t enough.
1… 2… … NO!!!
Rudy Mac: You were right, my boy!
Moneybagg Yo: Rudy, you corny af.
Rudy Mac: I’ll take that as a compliment because I don’t actually know what it means!
The match continues to go back-and-forth again, and Shotcaller gets a leg up with a picture-perfect dropkick. With Jumpstart on the ground, Shotcaller does an athletic in-place backflip that delivers an elbow to Jumpstart’s head.
Moneybagg Yo: Daz what I’m talking about.
1… 2… … NO!!!
Rudy Mac: But that’s not what is winning the match!
The two wrestlers get back to their feet and stop wrestling. They look at each other coldly, and the fans’ energy begins to feed off the competition in front of them. They bust into an impromptu chant.
G-P-W! G-P-W! G-P-W!
Moneybagg Yo: Not gonna lie, this is why people finna come to every GPW show. Just az many people who come to my dope concerts, so dats sayin sumthin.
The match continues, and Jumpstart continues to give an inspirational attempt to win the Pure Gold Championship by throwing every move he’s got. Shotcaller proves himself as qualified champion by countering Jumpstart’s repertoire.
Rudy Mac: No doubt, this is going back-and-forth!
However, a few moments later when Jumpstart runs toward Shotcaller, the Pure Gold Champion grabs hold of Jumpstart’s neck for a fantastic neckbreaker.
THE DRIVE-BY!
Moneybagg Yo: Daz what I came fo!
1… … 2… … NO!!!
DeShawn: Is this ten years ago!? We haven’t seen Jumpstart show this much heart is FOREVER!
As the two wrestlers get back to their feet, Jumpstart picks Shotcaller up and delivers a few elbows before running and slamming Shotcaller down to the mat with a bulldog. The crowd cheers wildly.
Rudy Mac: Jumpstart is obviously giving everything he’s got!
With a ginger limp, Jumpstart makes his way to the turnbuckle again and begins to climb. Unlike the first time he went for his finisher, Jumpstart is climbing much slower.
As he gets to the top rope, he perches for a moment and takes in the moment as the crowd musters the biggest expression of support since Season 1 before Jumpstart turned into a cheater.
JUMP-START! JUMP-START! JUMP-START!
With a nod to the fans, Jumpstart launches out one more time for his finisher Shooting Star Press.
THE START-UP-NO!!!
While Jumpstart flies mid-air, Shotcaller pops to his feet, grabs hold of Jumpstart’s neck and delivers the second signature neckbreaker of the match.
THE DRIVE-BY!!!
Rudy Mac: Yikes!
Moneybagg Yo: AHHH MAHHH BOIIII!
Golden Pro Wrestling’s fans gasp and scream at the exciting spot they just witnessed.
1… … 2… … … 3!!!
The bell rings and Shotcaller rolls up to his feet. Despite being exasperated, Shotcaller hops around cockily on his back foot throwing a ‘W’ across his chest.
BOO!!!
Rudy Mac: Shotcaller did it! Jumpstart may have put on an inspirational show, but Shotcaller is the Pure Gold Champion FOR A REASON!
Moneybagg Yo: It’s been real boyz, I got something I gotta give back to Shotcaller!
Rudy Mac and DeShawn: Peace, Moneybagg Yo!
The local Memphis rapper gets up from the announcers’ table and walks up the steps into the ring with the Pure Gold Championship belt and a microphone. He hands Shotcaller Golden Pro Wrestling’s premier title and puts the microphone to his mouth.
BOO!!!
Moneybagg Yo: Hate all ya want, but diz here the realest wrestler on da rosta!
BOO!!!
Shotcaller and Moneybagg Yo give each other a fist bump, and the beat of “Ambitionz Az A Ridah” hits the speakers.
Moneybagg Yo begins to rap the lyrics of Tupac’s classic song, and the two leave the ring and make their way up the ramp while the live performance continues.
Winner and STILL Pure Gold Champion:
Shotcaller via The Drive-By
anchor
Shotcaller and Moneybagg Yo return backstage and the rap music fades out, but Jumpstart remains back in the ring on his feet with his hands on his hips. Despite the look of disappointment, Jumpstart raises his head and holds his arm up in appreciation and acknowledgment to the fans.
JUMP-START! JUMP-START! JUMP-START!
Rudy Mac: It’s official! The fans are BACK on Jumpstart’s side!
DeShawn: Just the way it was meant to be! Hey Amazon, if you’re listening, get me my Jumpstart pajamas here by TONIGHT!
Jumpstart appears to get a little misty-eyed while the crowd cheers for his inspirational performance, but then the most hated music in Golden Pro Wrestling history hits the speaker system.
“Halo” by Soil.
Rudy Mac: That’s Violence’s music!
BOO!!!
The Asshole From Alberta comes stomping out onto the entrance stage with a sour face, and holds his middle fingers up to the fans as he walks down to the ring. Jumpstart’s face is equally perturbed, but he holds his place in the middle of the ring while Violence climbs in.
Rudy Mac: What the heck does Violence want!? At Gold Strike 22 he interfered supposedly on Jumpstart’s behalf. But Jumpstart denied it all the way!
DeShawn: This must be all mind games!
The two wrestlers square up to each other, and Violence begins laughing. Jumpstart looks confused as Violence holds his belly with two hands while in animated hysterics.
Rudy Mac: What’s so funny!?
Violence appears to compose himself, and then turns away from Jumpstart. Suddenly, Violence spins around and NAILS Jumpstart with a right hand that sends Jumpstart backwards.
Rudy Mac and DeShawn: NO!
BOO!!!
Jumpstart bounces off the ropes and stumbles to mid-ring ring right into the waiting arms of Violence. The former Pure Gold Champion picks Jumpstart up onto his shoulders and the television transmission becomes unwatchable.
THE BLUR-OUT!!!
When the transmission comes back into focus Violence is standing above the veteran Canadian wrestler from Ontario.
BOO!!!
Rudy Mac: HOGWASH!
Violence looks down at Jumpstart’s unconscious body and begins laughing maniacally. He makes his way to the ropes and exits the ring while showing the entire arena two middle fingers on his way up the ramp.
Rudy Mac: Violence sure has some explainin’ to do for targeting Jumpstart like this! But we’ll have to wait until Gold Strike 24 to find out more! Good night!
The camera zooms into Violence’s twisted, happy face and the transmission fades to black…
All illustrations from the talented David G.