The fight for Flip Costa’s freedom all comes down to this: Will the Golden Pros defeat Draconium and shed the Pensacola Pretty Boy from the skin of Flip Draco?
Season 5’s finale also features a retirement match between Violence and Jumpstart, and a cage match for the Pure Gold Championship between Shotcaller and Fuse Makoto!
This is the event you’ve been waiting for… FIVE seasons in the making! Starfall… is… NOW!
anchor
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.
A dazzling display of blue and gold fireworks set off around the edges of the stage, down the ramp and all around the ring. The crowd explodes at the grand kickoff to Season 5’s finale.
The broadcast transitions to a two-shot of Golden Pro Wrestling’s announcer team.
anchor
Rudy Mac: Welcome tooo… STARFALL! I’m Rudy Mac, your Memphis rasslin’ expert, and sitting next to me is a man who writes in his own name on election ballots, DeShawn Brannon!
DeShawn: Hey hey hey!
Rudy Mac: Alright, DeShawn, LET’S GET INTO IT! Starfall is upon us, and the entire professional wrestling galaxy… no, UNIVERSE is locked onto GPW!
DeShawn: As they should be, Rudy!
Rudy Mac: And a Golden Pro Wrestling season finale can’t start off without a good ol’ Rudy Mac rundown!
DeShawn: Kick it off, Rudes!
Rudy Mac: There’s no denying it; this has been a wild and weird year for GPW, but that’s all about to get settled tonight because FINALLY we will find out if Flip Costa will be freed from the clutches of Draconium!
DeShawn: Surrender now, Queen Solis! The gig is up!
Rudy Mac: But before Golden Ben Miller and the Golden Pros make their challenge, we have several other high-profile matches. First, we have Awoke and Whatevs in a grudge match that’s been brewing all season long!
DeShawn: Awoke just wants to support Whatevs and their gender dysphoria!
Rudy Mac: I don’t think Whatevs sees it that way. They probably think Awoke is a misguided moron like the rest of us!
DeShawn: Fair!
Rudy Mac: We also have Decade going for the Silver Championship against King Crab Mack. Will Dr. Dean’s treatment finally pave the way for Decade to reach his potential!?
DeShawn: I wouldn’t trust Dr. Dean to give me a Tylenol!
Rudy Mac: Then we have Jumpstart and Violence facing off in a RETIREMENT MATCH that will end one of their careers!
DeShawn: I hope they have their 401ks in order!
Rudy Mac: And perhaps the match of the night will be FUSE MAKOTO VS. SHOTCALLER FOR THE PURE GOLD CHAMPIONSHIP!
DeShawn: It’s payback time for what happened last season!
Rudy Mac: That’s right! Shotcaller’s thugs, Choo Choo and Wazzup, beat down Fuse Makoto before the Pure Gold Championship match even started at the Season 4 finale, Allegiance!
DeShawn: Anything else worth mentioning?
Rudy Mac: Of course! Ejercito de Juan will be challenging Sicko for the Hardcore Championship, and there will be plenty of entertaining and delightful segments throughout!
DeShawn: How long do we have to wait, Rudy!?
Rudy Mac: We don’t have to wait anymore, because it all starts NOW!
anchor
Starfall kicks things off by heading backstage where Vicky Cogliano is standing by with Shotcaller. The Pure Gold Champion proudly carries the belt over his shoulder.
BOO!!!
Behind the GPW reporter and current top wrestler stand their respective backups; Bounce Squad, who keeps a protective eye on Vicky, and Da Bloodz, who back up their gang leader.
Vicky: Shotcaller! You are now at your first season finale as THE Pure Gold Champion! This must be a different feeling than the last two season finales where you were the challenger.
The leader of 85 Piru sneers and looks over at his belt.
Shotcaller: Dat right, gurl. At Fort Knocks in Season 3, I came up empty… but at Allegiance in Season 4… NUH UH! Shotty C done take da belt and dis season I done DEFEND DA BELT. And tonight? Just finna throw Fuse Makoto back in da trash, ya know what I’m sayin?
BOO!!!
Choo Choo and Wazzup bump fists in agreement.
Vicky: After Allegiance, people were saying that you only won the Pure Gold Championship because your friends, Choo Choo and Wazzup, beat down Fuse Makoto before the match. Is that why you chose a Cage Match? So that there couldn’t possibly be any interference?
The LA Bloods gang leader thinks for a moment before replying.
Shotcaller: Ya know, Vicks, I hear dat, I hear dat. But it’s all bullsheet. I was gonna get to the top no matta wut and it don’t matter when or how. Now why did I want a cage match? Cuz da cage is my HOME. I done been gettin outta cages since I was a lil homie gettin busted with bags. Ya heard me?
Vicky: Any final thoughts before you get ready for your match tonight?
The current Pure Gold Champion smiles and looks at the camera.
Shotcaller: Yuh, baby, and don’t get jealous… but I been likin da way Fuse Makoto’s wife been lookin’. Maybe afta da match we go pop a bottle of bubblie. Ya heard?
BOO!!!
Choo Choo and Wazzup both chuckle and slap Shotcaller on the shoulders before the trio leaves the scene. The veteran GPW reporter looks back at the camera with her dramatic flair.
Vicky: Shotcaller, ladies and gentlemen!
anchor
The transmission switches inside the hallway of the rear employee entrance. The doors open and Jumpstart walks in street clothes and a gym bag slung over his shoulder.
Golden Pro Wrestling’s fans cheer from back inside FedExForum, and Jumpstart gives a quick smile and nod directly into the camera before turning and heading down the hall. His long-time knee injury gives him a noticeable limp.
Rudy Mac: Jumpstart is here, bravely ready to take on the juggernaut known as Violence in a match that could cost him his career!
The camera follows Jumpstart down the hallway, and he walks past Phaser and Saga, who make chit chat to each other.
The two wrestlers give respectful, encouraging nods to Jumpstart, who simply nods back and continues his way.
Jumpstart turns a corner and finds Trickster walking the opposite direction.
The resident Bad Santa of Magic stops and puts his hand on Jumpstart’s Shoulder.
Trickster: Hey, buddy. Pull one out of your hat and send that jerk into early retirement.
Jumpstart: You got it, Trickster.
The veteran Canadian wrestler gets a nod from the sly GPW competitor and keeps going.
Rudy Mac: It looks like everyone on the Golden Pro Wrestling roster is in full support of Jumpstart!
DeShawn: Jumpstart pajamas for everyone!
GPW’s silver fox finally pushes open a locker room door, where a collection of Golden Pro Wrestling’s roster all sit around either preparing for upcoming matches or simply socializing one last time in Season 5’s finale.
The Wild Kards, Cory Stenson, Corbin Fiscal, Crosscheck Beck, Ryan Rogue, and King Crab Mack all look over and begin to clap.
Jumpstart smiles and slings his gym bag down next to a bench before taking a seat.
Jumpstart: Alright, alright, guys. I got it. We all want Violence gone.
The big Memphis hometown boy, Cory Stenson, walks over and slaps Jumpstart on the shoulder.
Cory Stenson: Honestly, man, we’re just glad to have the old Jumpstart back. No matter what happens tonight.
Jumpstart: Ah, I really appreciate that.
Golden Pro Wrestling’s hockey enforcer chimes in from across the locker room.
Crosscheck Beck: Seriously, dude. I know we had our beef in Season 4, and I can’t forget how it ended, but we’re here, now. This is the Jumpstart we all remember, and we know you are going to take care of business.
Jumpstart: I regret what happened between us, Beck… but it means a lot to hear you say that.
The rest of the group, the Wild Kards, Corbin Fiscal, Ryan Rogue and King Crab Mack all murmur in agreement.
Jumpstart: But if it’s alright with you guys, I’d like to get into my routine here so I can come back and pop a beer with you after.
Everyone in the room gives a chuckle and a supportive affirmation back
Rudy Mac: Jumpstart sure doesn’t think this will be his last match tonight!
anchor
The Season 5 finale returns to inside the main arena of FedExForum and the fans POP when they hear the cheerful music of “Mucha Lucha” by Chicos de Barrio. The masked highflyer from Tijuana comes jogging out from backstage.
Rudy Mac: Boy, we sure didn’t see this when Season 5 kicked off! Ejercito de Juan has a chance at the Hardcore Championship!
DeShawn: Fry me up and call me a Baja Chalupa!
Rudy Mac: DeShawn! You know perfectly well that Taco Bell no longer offers Baja Chalupas, and it continues to burn my britches!
After making his signature pose with hands on his hips, Ejercito de Juan runs down the ramp and does a double hop from the ring floor to the apron and over the ropes into the ring.
His music is replaced by the dark melody of “Deadman” by Karnivool.
BOO!!!
With a sadistic grin, Sicko slowly walks out from backstage with the Hardcore Championship belt around his waist. Dr. Dean and the Orderlies follow closely while monitoring his every step.
Rudy Mac: Even after five seasons, Dr. Dean and the Orderlies won’t let Sicko get more than five feet from them!
DeShawn: That sure says a lot about the quality of Dr. Dean’s treatment!
Rudy Mac: And Dr. Dean will tell you that Sicko is a stunning success of his modern medicine!
Once they get to the ring, Dr. Dean holds out his hands and Sicko unstraps the belt and lays it across his master’s arms.
Dr. Dean: Now go have your fun, my sweet Sicko. You earned it!
When Sicko turns away, Dr. Dean grins and clutches the Hardcore Championship close to his chest.
Rudy Mac: I get the feeling that Dr. Dean thinks that he earned the belt too!
Ejercito de Juan and Sicko both square off, and the bell rings to start the Hardcore Championship match.
Rudy Mac: Starfall action is UNDERWAY!
The crowd is treated to an early competition of high-flying acrobatics versus all-around wrestling acumen. Sicko catches Ejercito de Juan in mid-air and drills him with a DDT.
DeShawn: There could be brain damage from that!
1… 2… NO!!!
The match continues, and Dr. Dean slaps on the ring apron commanding Sicko.
Dr. Dean: Use your wits! Use your strengths, Sicko!
Sicko throws Ejercito de Juan to the ropes, but the masked Mexican wrestler comes flying back with a crossbody block.
1… 2… NO!!!
Once the Hardcore Champion gets to his feet, he gets ahold of Ejercito de Juan and slams his head off the turnbuckle multiple times. The fans cheer on with each impact.
1! 2! 3! 4! 5!
Rudy Mac: In addition to that brain damage from the DDT, there may be blood under Juan’s mask!
Sicko then throws Ejercito de Juan headfirst out of the ring, but the lucha libre lands on his feet, which prompts a cheer from the fans in recognition of his athleticism. Sicko snarls and springboards off the ropes, and flies toward Ejercito de Juan.
CRASH!!!
Rudy Mac: A dodge by Ejercito de Juan and Sicko just-
DeShawn: HIT THE BARRICADE!
Rudy Mac: DeShawn! Let me finish my commentary!
DeShawn: I’m sorry! I just hadn’t said anything in a while.
Ejercito de Juan grabs a chair from under the ring and props it up ringside. He then scales all the way up to the top rope while Sicko gets to his feet way below.
The head physician of the Greater Memphis Psychiatric Institute peeks around the corner with alarm.
Dr. Dean: Watch out from above, my boy!
Sicko looks up just in time to see Ejercito de Juan fly down to him and nail a moonsault huracurrana which whips the GPW Hardcore Champion headfirst into the chair.
EL SUPREMO OFF THE TOP ROPE ONTO A CHAIR!!!
The crowd goes berserk from the display of agility, bravery and violence.
DeShawn: This burrito is wrapped up!
1… 2… … … NO!!!
Sicko kicks out at the last moment, and Dr. Dean can be seen visibly relieved.
Rudy Mac: WOW!
Ejercito de Juan can barely believe it but continues his attack regardless. However, the still-dazed Sicko gets in a quick uppercut that stuns the Mexican wrestler.
The two battle back up into the ring and continue to go at it. After whipping Ejercito de Juan into the corner, Sicko pulls him all the way up to the top rope.
Rudy Mac: Something big is about to happen up there, I have a feeling!
Everyone in the arena buzzes loudly in excitement as Sicko knees Ejercito de Juan in the stomach. He pulls the Lucha Libre’s head between his legs and hooks his arms behind his back.
Rudy Mac: No… this can’t be happening!
Sicko then leaps with Ejercito de Juan off the top rope and out of the ring toward the ringside floor. The crowd gasps from the hard thud of the full nelson facebuster onto the dented steel chair.
THE LOOSE SCREW OFF THE TOP ROPE ONTO A CHAIR!!!
DeShawn: Even MY head hurts!
1… 2… … 3!!!
Rudy Mac: Good lord! Say what you will, but Sicko and Ejercito just put on a SHOW!
DeShawn: That’s one brave little Mexican man!
Dr. Dean and the Orderlies get Sicko back to his feet and strap the Golden Pro Wrestling Hardcore Championship belt around his waist. The evil doctor smirks to himself as they head up the ramp while “Deadman” by Karnivool plays through the speaker system.
Rudy Mac: If this opening match is a sign of things to come, then Starfall is going to be a BARN BURNER!
Winner and STILL GPW Hardcore Champion:
Sicko via The Loose Screw
anchor
Following the conclusion of the GPW Hardcore Championship match, Starfall switches backstage to Vicky Cogliano. The intrepid GPW reporter is standing by with the giant social justice warrior, Awoke.
BOO!!!
Her bodyguards, Bounce Squad, stand by silently.
Vicky: Thank you for joining me, Awoke! All of the Golden Pro Wrestling world is excited about your showdown with Whatevs. Can you provide a little ins-
The big oaf with blue hair interrupts Vicky.
Awoke: It’s simple, Vicky. What I am going to do today is PROVE ALL TRANSPHOBES WRONG!
GPW’s reporter looks startled.
Vicky: How does that work, Awoke? You’re the one competing against a member of the trans community.
Awoke: All we’ve been hearing about is that trans athletes have an unfair advantage because of their biological makeup. And because of that, they shouldn’t be allowed to compete in the divisions they please! This is utter ignorance! And, by defeating Whatevs, I’m going to prove that they’re just as fallible as the rest of us! Trans people have no unfair advantages!
After pausing for a moment with a confused face, Vicky responds.
Vicky: But Awoke, I believe that the sentiment you’re describing is specifically when trans women compete against biological-
Awoke: BIOLOGICAL!? You really are a dinosaur if you’re using that term, Vicky!
Vicky: I’m sorry, but I have to be clear. Whatevs is competing against biological men, so they are at an inherent disadv-
The San Francisco SJW becomes visibly incensed.
Awoke: Listen! I’m going to go out there tonight and WIN! And by doing so, I’ll show THE WORLD that trans people CAN FAIRLY compete in whatever divisions they feel like!
After he angrily stomps off, Vicky is left with a confused face but manages to collect herself and look back at the camera.
Vicky: Awoke… ladies and gentlemen!
anchor
Starfall moves to the backstage parking lot where employee entrance door opens. The Orderlies escort Sicko back to the white Greater Memphis Psychiatric Institute van.
Dr. Dean follows closely with a very smug, satisfied expression.
Dr. Dean: Well done, my dear Sicko. I am very impressed with your progress! Please go ahead and get back in the van while we continue our activities.
The Orderlies look surprised with Sicko voluntarily climbs into the van.
Dr. Dean: Alright, gentlemen. Please fetch our other patient.
Orderly Caruso and Orderly Summers lean into the van side door and begin tussling and struggling. A moment later, they pull out Decade, who wears a wild expression with a new bandage around his leg and shackles on his wrists.
The Orderlies stand Decade upright in front of Dr. Dean, who slily grins to himself.
Dr. Dean: Alright, my dear Decade. Are you ready to show the world your reformed, cured self?
The young Canadian wrestler makes an intense, twisted smile in return before replying in a raspy voice.
Decade: Yessss… it’s my time now.
Dr. Dean: Good! We must now head back inside for your match against the crustacean-smelling King Crab Mack! Tonight you will be crowed Golden Pro Wrestling’s Silver Champion!
The Orderlies both grab onto each of Decade’s arms as a precaution and march Decade forward and through the employee entrance doors. Dr. Dean rubs his palms together and laughs.
Dr. Dean: Muahaha…
The leader of the Psych Ward briskly walks and enters the arena.
anchor
The Golden Pro Wrestling fans anxiously buzz when the show returns to the main arena of FedExForum.
Rudy Mac: My god! What has Dr. Dean done to Decade!
DeShawn: It looks to me like Decade finally gave in and let Dr. Dean do whatever he thought was medically necessary!
Rudy Mac: I’d say that he’s psychologically butchered the young man! But anyways, we’ve got a SHOWDOWN right now between Awoke and Whatevs.
“Chained to the Rhythm” by Katy Perry hits the speaker system, which prompts an immediate reaction from the faithful Memphis crowd.
BOO!!!
Awoke emerges from backstage with his signature oafish gait.
Rudy Mac: I must say, I think Awoke as the nature of this match all backwards! He thinks that the ‘unfair advantage’ that society has determined occurs when a man transitions and competes with biological women is the same as when a woman transitions to male and competes with men!
DeShawn: That’s a complicated way of saying that Awoke is a MORON!
The San Francisco SJW walks up the ring stairs and climbs over the ropes. He scowls at the fans as they continue to boo and jeer him.
The music switches to “Talk Amongst Yourselves” by Grand National, which prompts a loud cheer for Whatevs. The quite impressive, young half-feminine/half-masculine comes out from backstage with a determined face and their hands balled in fists at their side.
Rudy Mac: It seems like every season we get a couple new faces, and I’d say this one is as unique as they come!
DeShawn: Bravery is a characteristic that shows up anywhere on the theoretical gender spectrum!
Whatevs makes their way to the ring and ducks between the first and second ropes. They approach Awoke with a contemptuous glare.
Rudy Mac: This has been brewing all season, so it’s time to get some resolution!
The crowd cheers when the bell rings and the two wrestlers immediately engage in physical combat.
Awoke leverages his strength advantage and begins to pummel Whatevs around the ring. He finally picks them up and delivers a thunderous scoop slam.
1… 2… NO!!!
Rudy Mac: I think we’re just getting started here!
After getting up their feet, Whatevs turns the tables on Awoke by stunning him with an uppercut and throwing him to the ropes. When Awoke returns, he is met with an athletic dropkick by Whatevs.
Whatevs runs to the ropes and does a springboard leg drop before going for the cover.
Rudy Mac: Could this be an early win!?
1… 2… NO!!!
DeShawn: I think we’re going to see momentum transition a lot tonight!
Rudy Mac: DeShawn! You certainly deserve to get paid for your puns!
The match continues and Awoke jams Whatevs into the corner and begins to deliver several massive punches. The referee attempts to interject over the veracity of the beatdown, but the big oaf with blue hair audibly snaps back at the referee.
Awoke: Buzz off! I’m supporting trans rights here!
Rudy Mac: That jerk has this all backwards!
After throwing Whatevs to the other corner, he runs forward to deliver a massive bodycheck, but at the last moment Whatevs ducks out and lets Awoke slam into the turnbuckle.
The crowd lets out a loud pop, and Whatevs delivers an impressive belly-to-back suplex.
THE WHATEVER!!!
DeShawn: HOLY MOLY!
1… 2… … NO!!!
Rudy Mac: That’s not going to be enough to put down the veteran Awoke!
Both competitors get back to their feet and spend the next couple of minutes going back-and-forth with a series of power moves. Whatevs technical wrestling acumen takes over, and the pull off an incredible fishhook suplex into a pin attempt.
1… 2… NO!!!
Rudy Mac: I’d say that Whatevs is really throwing everything they’ve got at Awoke but will it be enough!?
Awoke then gains the upper hand, and stuffs Whatevs in a corner once again. This time, he carefully pulls Whatevs with him to the top of the turnbuckle and places Whatevs over his shoulders.
DeShawn: Is he going to pull off a Cancelled from the top rope!?
Whatevs slips off Awoke’s shoulder, delivers a knee to his stomach and then places Awoke on top of their shoulders. The crowd screams in anticipation.
CANCELLED OFF THE TOP ROPE BY AWOKE!!!
Rudy Mac: How the tables have turned!
1… 2… … … NO!!!
Rudy Mac: Awoke just kicked out of his own finisher!
Instead of getting frustrated, Whatevs pulls Awoke to his feet and continues the attack. However, Awoke delivers a running body block and knocks Whatevs to their back.
Awoke clomps over to the corner and climbs the top rope.
DeShawn: What trick does Awoke have up his sleeve now!?
The blue-haired SJW launches out and delivers a massive five-star frog splash that shakes the ring. Rather than go for the pin, he picks up the weary Whatevs and throws them on his shoulders before executing a thunderous Samoan Drop.
CANCELLED!!!
Rudy Mac: Whatevs looks out of it!
1… 2… … 3!!!
BOO!!!
Rudy Mac: Say what you will, but that’s a clean win!
DeShawn: But didn’t Awoke have the physical advantage the entire time!?
Rudy Mac: You tell Awoke that because the cultural dynamics seem lost on him!
Awoke climbs to his feet with a weary expression and throws his arms up in triumph.
Winner:
Awoke via Cancelled
anchor
As the crowd continues to boo, Awoke beckons for a microphone, which is tossed in by a production assistant.
Awoke: Boo me all you want, but the fact is that I just struck a major blow for trans rights! I’ve proven that there is NOTHING unfair about them competing in any division they please!
Rudy Mac: This is hogwash! Awoke had the advantage, not Whatevs!
The blue-haired SJW from San Francisco continues.
Awoke: I’m so proud of Whatevs for their courage, and plan to continue to be their ally whether they like it or not!
BOO!!!
He tosses the microphone to the mat, picks up the groggy Whatevs and carries them out of the ring, up the ramp and backstage.
Rudy Mac: How unsatisfying!
DeShawn: I feel like I just had a cultural cold shower!
anchor
After Awoke carries Whatevs backstage, an audible excitement permeates through the Starfall attendees while they await their next match.
Rudy Mac: Two matches down, FOUR to go! And the next one is an intriguing one!
DeShawn: I always love a good Silver Championship Match!
Rudy Mac: Then you’re about to get a dopamine rush, DeShawn!
“Novacain” by 10 Years hits the speaker system, and for the first time in Golden Pro Wrestling history, Decade is met with displeasure. The deranged-looking version of a once-handsome young wrestler walks out, followed by Dr. Dean and the Orderlies.
BOO!!!
Rudy Mac: What a stunning transformation! Decade went to Dr. Dean to help with his split personality and look at what it did!
DeShawn: Let this be a lesson for anyone looking for mental health treatment! It’s a trap!
Rudy Mac: DeShawn! Mental health treatment is vital for anyone in serious trouble! Just don’t go to Dr. Dean!
Dr. Dean gives Decade a playful pat on the butt before the young Canadian wrestler climbs the stairs and paces around the ring nervously.
The music switches to “Slit Wrist Theory” by 36 Crazyfists, and the crowd lets loose the BIGGEST POP of the night. The Bering Sea Badass comes out onto the entrance stage and gives a fist pump in all directions to the fans while holding the Silver Championship belt over his other shoulder.
Rudy Mac: Not only is King Crab Mack the Silver Champion, but it’s not mentioned enough that he’s UNDEFEATED in Golden Pro Wrestling action! The ONLY wrestler who can say that!
DeShawn: EIGHT wins, ZERO losses!
The big man from Alaska walks down the entrance ramp and enters the ring after Dr. Dean and the Orderlies take note to give him plenty of space. The current Silver Champion hands over the Silver Championship belt to an official, who then hands it down to a production assistant for safe keeping.
Rudy Mac: Let’s see what kind of progress Decade has really made!
The bell rings, and the two wrestlers begin to circle each other. Despite the twisted look in his eyes, Decade shows that he hasn’t lost any of his wrestling acumen by swiftly attacking KCM and putting him on the ropes.
DeShawn: Mental issues don’t seem to mean physical issues!
Decade keeps the upper hand early and eventually gets King Crab Mack into a German suplex for a cover.
1… 2… NO!!!
Following the pin attempt, KCM gets the advantage and slams Decade’s head off the turnbuckle, which prompts a loud cheer from the fans.
Rudy Mac: I suppose head injuries won’t make much of a difference at this point!
King Crab Mack pulls Decade out to mid-ring, lifts him over his shoulders and plants him with a fireman’s carry slam.
1… 2… NO!!!
After they get to their feet, they engage in a truly even, back-and-forth series of moves. KCM is surprised when Decade levels him with a clothesline, picks him up and delivers a gut wrench suplex.
Rudy Mac: Oof! That must take some INCREDIBLE strength!
1… 2… NO!!!
Decade begins to claw at his hair in frustration, but Dr. Dean leans in from ringside to provide some talk therapy.
Dr. Dean: Don’t worry, my young patient! Let what’s inside you take over! Trust it!
The young Canadian wrestler obliges, and the match continues with a frenzied pace. Decade pulls KCM to his feet and hits him with several punches. He attempts to throw King Crab Mack off the ropes, but KCM holds on instead of bouncing back mid-ring.
DeShawn: Looks like KCM isn’t going to be thrown around anymore!
Decade rushes toward KCM in desperation, but King Crab Mack ducks and uses Decade’s momentum to fling him over the ropes and down to ringside.
Rudy Mac: That impact may have hurt Decade!
KCM climbs down to ringside where Dr. Dean and the Orderlies back up cautiously. An obviously injured Decade attempts to get to his feet while the referee begins a double count out.
1…
The action continues as KCM picks Decade up and WHIPS him into the barrier, which prompts a pop of excitement from the ringside fans.
Rudy Mac: These people are getting some up-close entertainment!
2…
King Crab Mack keeps the attack going by lifting Decade up and drilling him with a sidewalk slam onto the ringside floor.
3…
Having seen enough, Dr. Dean climbs the ring apron and begins to yell at the referee.
Dr. Dean: What is wrong with you, good sir!? This is not another one of your Hardcore matches!
The referee tries to keep the count going but is obviously distracted.
4…
King Crab Mack attempts to keep his advantage but turns around and is met with a double clothesline by the Orderlies.
BOO!!!
Rudy Mac: Of course! Here we go! The Psych Ward will do anything!
Dr. Dean continues to nitpick and distract the referee while the ringside action continues.
Decade gets to his feet and holds onto the barricade while he watches Orderly Caruso and Orderly Summers pick up KCM and DRILL him with a two-man powerbomb.
BACK IN YOUR CELL!!!
DeShawn: I don’t think KCM has ever taken a hit like that!
Satisfied with the outcome of his distraction, Dr. Dean backs off the referee and jumps down to ringside. The referee looks to see Decade picking up KCM and rolling him into the ring.
BOO!!!
Rudy Mac: It looks like the fans can sense how this one is going to end!
Decade lifts KCM in center ring into an inverted suplex.
A PERFECT 10!!!
Rudy Mac: That should do it!
1… … 2… … NO!!!
Rudy Mac and DeShawn: WHOA!
The entire arena pops off while Decade, Dr. Dean and the Orderlies look shocked by KCM’s resilience. Decade picks up KCM and attempts to hit another one of his signature inverted suplexes but is met with a knee to the stomach by the current Silver Champion.
The Bering Sea Badass lifts Decade up and drops him with a jumping backbreaker.
THE FULL POT!!!
1… 2… … … NO!!!
Rudy Mac: My gawd! King Crab Mack sure has his hands full tonight!
The two wrestlers get back to their feet and begin to wearily trade punches back and forth. Dr. Dean hops back up on the ring apron and does another one of his classic distractions for the referee.
DeShawn: Here we go again!
Meanwhile, Orderly Caruso slips a chair into the ring which Decade ducks over and picks. King Crab Mack is unprepared when the young Canadian wrestler levels him over the head with it.
CRACK!!!
Decade lifts KCM off the mat and then hits him with his inverted suplex on the foreign object.
A PERFECT 10 ONTO THE CHAIR!!!
He kicks the chair out of the ring and goes for the cover just in time for the referee to turn around and begin the count.
1… … 2… … 3!!!
Rudy Mac: Gah! King Crab Mack’s first loss is to the dirty hands of the twisted Decade!
BOO!!!
Rudy Mac: Hogwash! Hogwash on this Silver Championship match!
Dr. Dean grabs the Silver Championship from the production assistant and quickly climbs into the ring to strap it around Decade’s waist. The young Canadian wrestler has a deranged, satisfied look on his face.
Winner and NEW Silver Champion:
Decade via A Perfect 10
anchor
Once Decade, Dr. Dean and the Orderlies head up the ramp and disappear backstage, the show transitions to a hand-held camera directly behind the entrance curtain.
The four members of Psych Ward enter the shot, and Dr. Dean gives Decade a proud pat on the shoulder.
Dr. Dean: My good chap! You are now the Silver Champion! A true testament to your commitment to mental health and my ability to provide it!
The new Silver Champion grins and replies in a raspy voice.
Decade: Yess… Silver Champion!
Dr. Dean: Now let us return to the Greater Memphis Psychiatric Institute to continue your treatments for the offseason!
The Orderlies oblige and grab Decade by the arms and usher him down the hall. Dr. Dean follows with a grin while rubbing his hands together.
Once out of the picture, King Crab Mack walks through the entrance stage with a frustrated, grimaced look.
The Bering Sea Badass looks directly into the camera.
KCM: This ain’t fucking over.
The former Silver Champion snarls and leaves the scene.
anchor
The Season 5 finale returns inside the main arena of FedExForum where the show transitions to a two-shot of GPW’s announcer duo, Rudy Mac and DeShawn Brannon. DeShawn proudly wears a Jumpstart baseball hat and Jumpstart t-shirt.
Rudy Mac: DeShawn! You’re certainly decked out for our next match!
DeShawn: Of course I am! Jumpstart is about to RETIRE Violence!
Rudy Mac: That’s his goal! But there’s no doubt that the FIRST EVER Pure Gold Champion, Violence, is going to give it his all. Let’s not forget the fact that Violence spent ALL season tormenting and goading Jumpstart to eventually get him into this match.
DeShawn: I was just wondering, Rudy, should THANK Violence?
Rudy Mac: What are you talking about, DeShawn!?
DeShawn: If Violence hadn’t spent all season going after Jumpstart, then Jumpstart may never have returned to his classic good guy state of mind!
Rudy Mac: Fair observation. Let’s see how this all shakes out!
The mood inside FedExForum instantly sours when the song “Halo” by Soil begins to blare through the speaker system.
BOO!!!
Violence emerges from backstage with a sick, sadistic snarl to go along with his mohawk and stout frame. He stops at the top of the ramp to show the fans two large, thick middle fingers.
Rudy Mac: Even though Violence had a quiet Season 4, it looks like he really turned things around in Season 5 and is ready to make a STATEMENT that he’s ALWAYS a threat to the GPW roster!
The Asshole from Alberta gets into the ring, and proceeds to taunt and jeer the fans, who only respond with acerbic reactions of their own.
But, in just a single moment, the crowd BURSTS into cheering.
“Destruction” by Joywave takes over the speaker system, and the venerable Golden Pro Wrestling commentator can barely be heard.
Rudy Mac: And here is the man of the hour, Jumpstart!
The small wrestler from Windsor, Ontario walks out slowly onto the entrance stage.
Rudy Mac: It’s been a long, winding road for Jumpstart in Golden Pro Wrestling. First, he struggled mightily due to his age and knee condition, and then he resorted to-
DeShawn: Don’t say it, Rudy!
Rudy Mac: Cheating! It is what it is! But after holding onto the Silver Championship for multiple seasons, he changed his ways and is the ol’ Jumpstart we know and love.
As the arena shakes from the fans’ cheering, Jumpstart takes a moment to appreciate what is in front of him: redemption.
JUMP-START! JUMP-START! JUMP-START!
Back inside the ring, Violence shakes his head in annoyance. Then without warning, Jumpstart SPRINTS down to the ring and slides under the ropes and goes on the attack.
Rudy Mac: Jumpstart is getting the jumpstart on Violence!
The fans explode again in excitement as the bell rings and the match gets underway. Using his quick movements, Jumpstart quickly gets the upper hand and plants the surprised Violence with a bulldog.
Rudy Mac: VINTAGE JUMPSTART!
He makes a run to the ropes and moonsaults back to mid-ring and delivers a knee to Violence’s head.
DeShawn: Is this going to be a quick one!?
1… 2… NO!!!
Unperturbed, he gets Violence up to his feet but is quickly countered with a MAJOR punch by Violence that sends Jumpstart down to the mat. The sudden impact of the punch also quiets the crowd.
For the next couple of minutes, Violence appears to be mostly in control. He ragdolls Jumpstart around the ring and smashes the Ontario-born wrestler into the turnbuckle.
Rudy Mac: We all knew this wasn’t going to be an easy one!
Violence pulls Jumpstart up the turnbuckle with him until they’re both precariously perched above the ring. The Asshole from Alberta picks up Jumpstart and falls backward for a HUGE superplex.
1… 2… NO!!!
The arena pops in response to Jumpstart’s resilience, and for the next minute Jumpstart appears to have his legs back. He whips Violence to the ropes, and when Violence returns, he’s met with a quick spear.
DeShawn: A spear! Right to the point!
1… 2… NO!!!
Now it’s Violence’s turn to get back in control, which he does by picking up Jumpstart and PLANTING him with a vicious DDT.
1… 2… NO!!!
Rudy Mac: This is truly back-and-forth action!
Violence continues his attack with more lumbering punches and then lifts Jumpstart into a backbreaker position.
DeShawn: Eek!
Just when Violence goes to deliver the backbreaker, Jumpstart snakes his legs around Violence’s head and delivers a beautiful huracurrana.
Rudy Mac: It’s that kind of slippery footwork that made Jumpstart such a winner all these years!
Jumpstart attempts to run for the corner turnbuckle, but Violence manages to kick Jumpstart in his notoriously damaged knee.
Rudy Mac: That’s a tactic I was expecting to see! Violence was bound to hone in on Jumpstart’s bum knee!
The former Pure Gold Champion gets to his feet, grabs Jumpstart and slams him down to the mat. From there, Violence stomps repeatedly on Jumpstart’s knee.
DeShawn: Too much!
Satisfied with his progress, Violence lifts Jumpstart up onto his shoulders right before the transmission becomes pixelated.
THE BLUR OUT!!!
Rudy Mac: No!
The transmission becomes viewable again, and Violence goes for the cover.
1… 2… … … NO!!!
The arena erupts as Jumpstart shows signs of life.
Rudy Mac: Every kickout is an extension of Jumpstart’s career!
Violence snarls and picks Jumpstart up from the mat and attempts to put him position for another signature Blur Out but is countered and Jumpstart dropkicks Violence to the mat.
Despite the noticeable limp, Jumpstart scampers to the corner and climbs the ropes. The arena buzzes in anticipation for his signature Shooting Star Press.
THE START-UP!!!
DeShawn: A classic American move!
Rudy Mac: Jumpstart is Canadian!
1… … 2… … … NO!!!
Everyone in attendance lets out a disappointed exasperation, but the action moves on.
Violence and Jumpstart continue to go back-and-forth delivering the fans an epic clash of dueling styles. And despite the size disadvantage, Jumpstart regains the upper hand.
After Violence misses with a clothesline, Jumpstart grabs Violence from the side and levels him with a Russian leg sweep.
Rudy Mac: That must be pure adrenaline that’s pumping through Jumpstart’s veins!
The veteran Canadian wrestler climbs the ropes again and launches for his shooting star press.
THE START-UP-NO!!!
At the last moment Violence pops to his feet and plucks Jumpstart mid-air onto his shoulders.
Rudy Mac: What black magic is this!?
The transmission pixelates again while Violence delivers the FCC-regulated finisher.
THE BLUR OUT!!!
When the show becomes viewable again, Violence is going for the cover.
1… … 2… … … 3!!!
Rudy Mac and DeShawn: NOOOO!
The entire FedExForum crowd cries out in shock and displeasure as one of their favorite wrestlers is officially retired.
Violence gets to his feet and holds his belly with one hand laughing while pointing down at the groggy Jumpstart with the other hand.
Winner:
Violence via The Blur Out
anchor
Inside the ring, Jumpstart attempts to get to his feet but is obviously disoriented. Jumpstart wastes no time and begins to lay a beatdown on the now-retired wrestler.
BOO!!!
Rudy Mac: Hogwash! Let the man have a last moment with the fans!
The referee begs for Violence to stop, but Violence simply shoves the referee away while stomping on Jumpstart’s knee. Despite nearly being unconscious, Jumpstart is doing whatever he can to protect the lower extremity.
DeShawn: This ain’t fair, Rudy! It ain’t right!
Violence picks Jumpstart up from the mat once more, and the television producers are forced to pixelate the transmission.
THE BLUR OUT!!!
BOO!!!
The Asshole from Alberta gives Jumpstart a light kick with his foot to see if Jumpstart will respond, but the veteran Ontario-born wrestler lays limp in the middle of the ring.
Apparently satisfied with his destruction, Violence holds up a middle finger and spins around to display it to the crowd.
“Halo” by Soil begins to play, and the former Pure Gold Champion leaves the ring to head backstage.
BOO!!!
Rudy Mac: We need medics! Where’s the doctor!?
DeShawn: Medic!
After Violence disappears backstage, Dr. Tabitha Garran and some paramedics rush down to the ring. More medical personnel follow with a stretcher.
The group of emergency professionals huddle around Jumpstart who lay motionless in the middle of the ring, and the entire arena hushes with concern.
Rudy Mac: I’m just getting word from the production team that we’re going to take a break from Starfall while the medical staff sees to Jumpstart. Stand by folks!
The transmission switches to a spinning Golden Pro Wrestling logo.
After a few minutes, the broadcast resumes and Jumpstart is now on a stretcher and being brought up the ramp to backstage.
Rudy Mac: Thanks for hanging in with us, folks! This is a SERIOUS medical emergency because Violence REALLY did a number on our dear Jumpstart.
DeShawn: sniff… sniff… Jumpstart, we’ll miss you!
Right when the stretcher gets to the top of the ramp and onto the entrance stage, the fans can see Jumpstart’s hand tapping on Dr. Garran’s arm. She stops the stretcher, and the fans watch as Jumpstart makes his hand into a ‘thumbs up’ position.
The entire arena EXPLODES!
Rudy Mac: Well, look at that! Jumpstart wouldn’t let himself leave without putting a smile on the fans’ faces one more time!
However, the cheering turns immediately to cries of concern as Violence re-emerges from backstage.
BOO!!!
Rudy Mac: What the heck is going on here!?
Violence pushes Dr. Garran and the rest of the medical staff away from the stretcher and looks down at the strapped, prone Jumpstart. The injured, now-retired wrestler looks up helplessly as Violence picks the stretcher up onto his shoulders.
The show’s technical director just barely pixelates the transmission in time.
THE BLUR OUT WHILE ON A STRETCHER!!!
Rudy Mac: HOGWASH!
BOO!!!
Security rushes out onto the stage and attempts to corral Violence, but Violence simply pushes his way past them while laughing and returns backstage.
Rudy Mac: Violence just added injury to insult to injury to insult!
The medical staff quickly reconvenes around Jumpstart who is entirely unconscious now, and the group re-rights the stretcher before wheeling him off the stage with urgency.
Rudy Mac: My goodness folks! That may be more than anyone bargained for! We’ll keep you informed whenever we get an update on Jumpstart’s status!
anchor
Starfall transitions to a backstage locker room where Fuse Makoto is getting ready for his upcoming match against Shotcaller. The fans back inside the main arena of FedExForum EXPLODE at the sight of the young Japanese wrestler.
Fuse has his signature red and white wrestling pants on but appears to be rummaging through his gym bag for something. Visibly frustrated, he stands straight up, closes his eyes and takes a couple of deep breathes as if trying to calm himself down.
A petite, young Japanese woman enters the frame carrying a purse around her forearm.
Aiko: Looking for something, my husband?
The former Pure Gold Champion opens his eyes and looks over to her, but his frustrated expression doesn’t fade.
Fuse: Yes. My family head band. I cannot find it, and I cannot compete without it.
Fuse Makoto’s wife smirks to herself and reaches into her purse. She pulls out the signature red-and-white headband and steps forward. Fuse bows forward while she ceremoniously wraps it around his brow.
Aiko: I thought for tonight, you deserved some special luck, which is why I have scented it with Byakudan to give you purity, protection and tranquility.
Once the headband is secured, Aiko gently pushes Fuse’s chest straight up and gives him a pat with one hand.
Fuse: I was very concerned, please just do your scents and don’t make me think I misplaced it.
His young wife frowns.
Aiko: Oh, my sweet Fuse. The only concern you need to have is about your match. Now let’s go out there and get back your Pure Gold Championship belt.
She grabs Fuse by the wrist and leads him out of the locker room.
anchor
Starfall returns inside the main arena of FedExForum where the steel cage begins to descend from the rafters down to the ring.
Rudy Mac: This is it! Our FIRST Golden Pro Wrestling cage match!
DeShawn: Not that we can’t forget about Fort Knocks!
Rudy Mac: To be fair, NOTHING can compare to Fort Knocks! But there was no escaping Fort Knocks unlike TONIGHT when it’s going to be about doing whatever you can to stun your opponent, climb out and WIN the Pure Gold Championship!
Multiple GPW crew members go to work busily securing the steel cage to the four corners of the ring and making a noticeable show of checking to see if it’s in place.
Rudy Mac: While the staff finishes up with the cage, I CAN tell you that we got our first update on Jumpstart’s condition!
DeShawn: Do I want to know!?
Rudy Mac: Unfortunately, Jumpstart is currently in an ambulance headed to the hospital where they are expecting him to be placed in CRITICAL condition!
DeShawn: Damn you, Violence! Wait! I hope Violence didn’t just hear that! If so, I’m sorry, Violence!
The Golden Pro Wrestling crew chief and his team all give each other thumbs ups and stand by the one open door to the cage.
Rudy Mac: The cage is all set, and now we just need a couple of TOPFLIGHT, TOP TIER, TOP EVERYTHING wrestlers to make it a show!
The iconic opening rift of “Name Of The Game” by The Crystal Method begins to play and the entire arena LIFTS OFF in cheering. A red and white light show amplifies the entertaining atmosphere.
A second jolt of cheering commences when Fuse Makoto walks calmly from backstage with his young wife, Aiko Makoto.
Rudy Mac: Back from Japan and MARRIED! Fuse Makoto is all grown up, and I sure think his little wife is sweet! She even scented his headband.
DeShawn: She scented it with her Byakudan! I’d love to get a whiff of that!
Rudy Mac: DeShawn! It’s not what you think it is! Byakudan is essentially sandalwood incense!
The young Japanese couple approaches the cage, and Fuse attempts to climb ring steps toward the door. Aiko suddenly grabs and turns him toward her before giving him a soft kiss on the cheek. Without much response, Fuse turns aways, climbs the steps and enters the cage.
Rudy Mac: Fuse Makoto is set to win his title back! I have a good feeling about this!
I WON’T DENY IT… I’M A STRAIGHT RIDAH…
2Pac’s opening verse of “Ambitionz Az A Ridah” kicks off through the speaker system.
BOO!!!
Shotcaller, Wazzup and Choo Choo all come strutting out onto the entrance stage throwing ‘W’s with their hands while the crowd jeers them.
Rudy Mac: This Bloods gang, 85 Piru, has taken over Golden Pro Wrestling!
DeShawn: And based on what is coming through the police blotter, they’re taking over Memphis gangland!
The trio of la Bloods gang members make their way down to the ring where Choo Choo and Wazzup give Shotcaller daps. The Pure Gold Champion hands off his belt to Choo Choo before climbing the ring steps and entering the cage.
Rudy Mac: This match is TWO seasons in the making! After Shotcaller and Fuse Makoto went through a gang war in Season 4, Fuse Makoto is here to get some vengeance for the inglorious way he lost the belt at Allegiance!
The Golden Pro Wrestling crew chief finishes locking and securing the entrance to the cage, and the two competitors stand in the middle of the ring staring back and forth.
DeShawn: Rudy, I’ve got that funny feeling again!
Rudy Mac: Is it a tingling sensation through your whole body where you’re really looking forward to what’s about to happen!?
DeShawn: Yes, and I know this isn’t the 1st or the 15th of the month! THIS IS A PURE GOLD CHAMPIONSHIP MATCH! LET’S GO!
The bell rings, and the crowd lets loose a loud pop of excitement. Wasting no time, Shotcaller and Fuse Makoto go to war leveling punches back and forth.
Rudy Mac: There isn’t a referee in there! Anything goes because all that matters is GETTING OUT FIRST!
Fuse whips Shotcaller toward the ropes, who crashes into the steel cage. The current Pure Gold Champion winces in pain and holds his back while Fuse rushes forward and delivers a jumping knee strike.
Rudy Mac: That’s gotta sting!
Rather than try and climb the cage, Fuse continues his attack by pulling Shotcaller to mid-ring and lifting him into a fireman’s carry position before delivering a thunderous gutbuster.
DeShawn: That’s a new one from our boy, Fuse!
The action continues after Shotcaller manages to stun Fuse and follows it up with a spinebuster.
Rudy Mac: These would be the times that there would be some cover attempts, but that’s just not what a cage match is all about!
Shotcaller pulls Fuse up to his feet and rams him headfirst into the steel cage.
CRASH!!!
The LA gang member attempts to do it again, but Fuse stops him, and slams Shotcaller’s head into the cage multiple times in response. The crowd counts along with each impact.
1! 2! 3! 4! 5!
DeShawn: That’s it! I can’t count any higher!
After the fifth slam of Shotcaller’s head into the cage, Fuse pulls the Pure Gold Champion out to mid ring and performs full nelson suplex on Shotcaller that sends him bouncing across the ring.
The crowd cheers when Fuse begins to make his first climb attempt.
Rudy Mac: It’s a little early in the match, so maybe Fuse just wants to get used to climbing the cage!
Shotcaller expectedly gets to his feet, shakes the cobwebs out of his head and rushes over to grab hold of Fuse’s ankle. The current Pure Gold Champion yanks on Fuse’s leg, which whips the young Japanese wrestlers onto the mat.
DeShawn: I hope that climbing warmup was worth it!
Back on the mat, Fuse is stomped several times in the head by Shotcaller who snarls with each drop of the boot. Shotcaller picks up Fuse into a powerbomb position, but rather than dropping him with it, he runs Fuse back-first into the steel cage.
CRASH!!!
Shotcaller holds on and then backs out to mid-ring and nails the MAJOR powerbomb on Fuse Makoto.
Rudy Mac: OOF! This may give Shotcaller a chance to get out!
The Pure Gold Champion makes his way to the cage and cautiously starts to climb.
DeShawn: They say people like me and Shotcaller don’t like to swim… well, we also don’t like to climb!
Down at ringside, Aiko Makoto yells into the ring.
Aiko: Get up, Fuse! He is climbing out!
The former Pure Gold Champion comes to his senses and gets back to his feet. Seeing that Shotcaller is halfway up the cage, Fuse runs and jumps and delivers an axhandle against Shotcaller’s back. The LA gang member lets go of the steel cage and falls back into the middle of the ring.
Rudy Mac: We’re back to square one!
The two wrestlers trade a series of moves with Shotcaller delivering a shoulder lift into a facebuster drop, and Fuse countering with a cradle backbreaker.
Rudy Mac: These two guys are pulling out ALL the moves tonight!
DeShawn: If it’s for the Pure Gold Championship, then I expect to see it all!
Shotcaller gets the ultimate advantage with a knee to Fuse Makoto’s ribs followed by a jumping straight kick. The current Pure Gold Champion runs to the cage and climbs a few steps before launching back to mid-ring and NAILING a flapjack.
Rudy Mac: It’s all about delivering as much punishment as possible and then getting THE HECK OUT OF THAT RING!
Indeed, Shotcaller makes another escape attempt, and the crowd screams as he gets roughly three quarters of the way up the steel cage. Fuse gathers his wits back down on the ring before running over and attempting to climb the cage with Shotcaller.
Rudy Mac: Oh boy, they’re both getting pretty far up there!
Fuse Makoto catches up to Shotcaller nearly 10 feet above the ring while clinging onto the steel cage, and the two begin trading kicks and punches. Aiko, Wazzup and Choo Choo all look up with concern as their counterparts wage war in a precarious position.
DeShawn: I’m not sure I can watch this! Something bad is about to happen!
Rudy Mac: Stick with me, good buddy!
After the two wrestlers trade kicks and punches, Shotcaller gambles and grabs Fuse Makoto by the head before jumping out to mid-ring to deliver a flying neckbreaker.
THE DRIVE-BY OFF THE STEEL CAGE!!!
The crowd POPS at the exciting move and breaks into an impromptu chant.
G-P-W! G-P-W! G-P-W!
Rudy Mac: Is that going to be enough to keep Fuse knocked out?
Shotcaller gives Fuse a soft nudge with his foot and decides that Fuse Makoto is effectively knocked out cold and attempts to climb the cage once again.
The petite, young Japanese woman yells again to Fuse.
Aiko: Get UP Fuse! I FORBID you to lose!
DeShawn: I love a supportive woman!
Shotcaller continues to climb the cage, and the crowd watches as Fuse continues to look unconscious.
Suddenly, he performs a karate-style jump from his back onto two feet. He scans the ring and sees that Shotcaller is nearly to the top of the cage.
Rudy Mac: Fuse better get a climb on!
The young Japanese wrestler quickly scales the cage faster than he had at any time before and catches Shotcaller’s foot just as he attempts to lift it over the lip of the steel cage.
Shotcaller kicks back down and nails Fuse in he head with his boot. The crowd cries out in concern as Fuse loses his footing and finds himself dangling from the cage with one hand.
Rudy Mac: This looks desperate!
DeShawn: Like me on a Tinder date!
Fuse regains his footing and scampers up a couple more rungs of the cage to bring himself even with Shotcaller at the top of the cage. The two men trade punches and kicks back-and-forth and then lock up completely with their two free arms while still holding onto the cage.
Rudy Mac: How can you even put this kind of action into words!?
The former Pure Gold Champion from Japan quickly strikes Shotcaller twice in the head with karate chops, and as Shotcaller begins to fall off the cage, Fuse Makoto jumps with him and delivers a tornado kick.
NIKUYA STRIKE MID-AIR ON THE WAY DOWN FROM THE CAGE!!!
Rudy Mac and DeShawn: HOLY!
The entire arena bursts in delight from the epic move that just occurred. Fuse Makoto, who also fell hard onto the mat, is the first to stir.
Rudy Mac: I think they both took a pretty big bump on that one, so now it’s a race to get back to their feet, back up the cage, AND GET OUT!
Fuse wearily climbs to his feet and limps over to the cage where he grabs hold and slowly begins to climb up. A few moments later, Shotcaller shakes his head and sees Fuse nearly to the top of cage.
Rudy Mac: We’ll see what Shotcaller still has left in the tank here!
Shotcaller follows Fuse up the steel cage and manages to grab hold of Fuse’s ankle before the former Pure Gold Champion can lift his leg over the cage. Using Fuse for stability, Shotcaller pulls himself up even and the two wrestlers find each other side-by-side trying to climb over.
DeShawn: Who is going to land this jumbo jet!?
Fuse Makoto delivers several backfists to Shotcaller, while Shotcaller responds by grabbing Fuse by the head and slamming it into the top rung of the steel cage.
CRASH!!!
The impact appears to have dazed Fuse, and Shotcaller follows it up with another head smash.
CRASH!!!
Rudy Mac: Fuse better be careful! This isn’t looking good!
The young Japanese wrestler wobbles, barely holding onto the cage. Shotcaller snarls and grabs hold of Fuse Makoto’s head with both hands and launches out to mid-ring for his signature neckbreaker.
THE DRIVE-BY OFF THE STEEL CAGE!!!
Rudy Mac: THAT’S TWO OF THOSE!
DeShawn: I’m not sure that’s survivable!
The crowd pops off at the entertaining action but immediately becomes concerned when they see Shotcaller quickly get up to his feet and start climbing the cage.
Fuse Makoto’s wife attempts to encourage her husband.
Aiko: Fuse! Do NOT fail me!
Regardless, Fuse remains motionless as Shotcaller reaches the top of the cage. He carefully gets one leg over the top, and then the other.
Back inside the ring, Fuse finally turns over onto his stomach and gets to his feet.
Rudy Mac: It might be too late, here!
Fuse helplessly watches as Shotcaller climbs down the outside of the cage and drops onto the ringside floor where Wazzup and Choo Choo are waiting to congratulate him.
Rudy Mac: Shotcaller did it! That homie is STILL the Pure Gold Champion!
BOO!!!
“Ambitionz Az A Ridah” by 2Pac begins to bump through the speaker system, and Choo Choo hands Shotcaller the Pure Gold Championship belt. The trio of 85 Piru make their way up the ramp while gloating and throwing ‘W’ hand signals out to the crowd.
BOO!!!
Rudy Mac: It looks like Season 6 is going to start with Shotcaller ON TOP!
The Golden Pro Wrestling crew chief opens the door to the cage, and Fuse Makoto dejectedly exits and walks down the ring stairs. His wife, Aiko, waits for him at the bottom with a visibly disappointed face.
Fuse Makoto glances at her with a defeated look before turning and walking up the ramp silently.
Winner and STILL Pure Gold Champion:
Shotcaller
anchor
Starfall’s transmission moves back to behind the entrance stage curtain where Golden Ben Miller, Cory Stenson, Corbin Fiscal and the Wild Kards are grouped up and preparing for their match. The crowd pops in excitement at the sight of their heroes.
Golden Pro Wrestling Commissioner Parker Meloche enters the scene and taps on GBM’s shoulder. The Golden Warhorse turns and faces his boss.
GBM: What’s going on, Parker?
Parker: Ben, I just wanted to give you a quick heads up before you go out there. Security informed me earlier that they saw FBI Agent Leonard making his way around the back halls.
Golden Ben Miller rolls his eyes, and the rest of the Golden Pros circle around to listen.
GBM: Well, I can’t say I’m surprised. The government just won’t let this go… but this business is in our hands now.
The young Canadian businessman shakes his head.
Parker: That’s just the thing. I got a phone call from FBI headquarters, and they informed me that Leonard has been removed from the Draconian assignment, and any further action is completely unsanctioned by the government.
Golden Ben Miller furrows his brow.
GBM: So that means…
Parker: Yep, that means Leonard has gone rogue. There’s no telling what he might be up tonight… so watch your back.
The Golden Warhorse smiles in response.
GBM: Easy enough. We only have Draconium to deal with.
Parker smiles back, and GBM gives him a pat on the shoulder before looking at the rest of the group.
GBM: Alright, boys. Mount up. Let’s go get Flip Costa back.
anchor
The epic finale of Season 5 continues, and Starfall returns to inside the main arena of FedExForum. The camera does a wide pan of the arena where a sellout crowd buzzes anxiously for the season finale and the cage from the previous match is slowly being raised back up into the rafters.
DeShawn: Rudy, why does it feel like NOTHING has gone right tonight?!
Rudy Mac: Because it HASN’T! Awoke learned nothing about inter-gender competition, Decade finally turned psycho and won the Silver Championship, Jumpstart got RETIRED AND OBLITERATED by Violence, Shotcaller is STILL the Pure Gold Champion…
DeShawn: Starfall has been a nightmare!
Rudy Mac: Don’t worry, good buddy! No matter what else happened tonight, Season 5 has all come down to THIS!
DeShawn: What’s that, Rudy?
Rudy Mac: DeShawn! You just screwed up my introduction to the final match of Season 5!
DeShawn: That’s on me! My bad, keep going!
Rudy Mac: After an entire season of back-and-forth intergalactic politics and in-ring fireworks, Golden Ben Miller and the rest of the Golden Pros are facing off against DRACONIUM in a five-on-five ELIMINATION MATCH!
DeShawn: And what’s at stake, Rudy!?
Rudy Mac: If the Golden Pros win, Flip Draco is restored to FLIP COSTA!
DeShawn: I love it! And I love the fact that there’s no catch!
Rudy Mac: Of course there’s a catch! If the Golden Pros lose, then Queen Solis of Draconium will transform Golden Ben Miller into another one of her minions!
DeShawn: There’s always something in the fine print!
Rudy Mac: Golden Pro Wrestling has had some stellar season finales before, but NONE LIKE THIS!
The steady drum beat of “My Hero” by Foo Fighters hits the speaker system and the arena POPS OFF!
Rudy Mac: And here comes our heroes now!
Golden Ben Miller, Cory Stenson, Corbin Fiscal and the Wild Kards, collectively known as the Golden Pros, walk out onto the entrance stage. The GPW faithful keep cheering, and the Golden Pros take a moment to soak in the moment.
Rudy Mac: Whenever the forces of darkness appear, you can bet Golden Ben Miller, and the Golden Pros will be there!
DeShawn: The term ‘hero’ is thrown around so loosely… but we actually get see some RIGHT NOW!
GBM leads his group of wrestlers down the entrance stage, and they one-by-one walk up the ring stairs and enter the squared circle.
Golden Ben Miller climbs up onto one of the turnbuckles and holds his arm up to the crowd, who cheer in response. Cory Stenson takes a moment to bounce off the ropes, and the rest go about some pre-match warmups.
DeShawn: One group has shown up… where’s the other!?
The lights inside FedExForum begin to dim, and the beginning drone of “The Core” by Uppermost fades in through the speaker system while blue lights pan the arena.
BOO!!!
Rudy Mac: Oh boy… here we go, DeShawn!
Queen Solis emerges onto the entrance stage carrying her scepter, followed by the Draconian, Flip Draco and the Dominars. Each wears an expressionless face with dark eyes that betray nothing. The Dominars have their GPW Tag Team Championship titles strapped around their wastes.
DeShawn: Draconium doesn’t just give me chills down my spine; they give me chills all over!
Rudy Mac: That’s only natural!
The leader of Draconium, Queen Solis, leads her minions down the ramp while Golden Ben Miller and the Golden Pros back up inside the ring. Cory Stenson, Corbin Fiscal and the Wild Kards all climb through the ropes and get near their respective corner.
Rudy Mac: Of course, Golden Ben Miller is going to be the first to start things off!
Queen Solis climbs into the ring along with the rest of Draconium, and the group all silently approaches Golden Ben Miller who stands proudly.
Rudy Mac: GBM represents EVERYTHING GOOD about the HUMAN RACE!
Everyone notices that Queen Solis is obviously pregnant.
DeShawn: Do you think there’s any concern from GBM and the Golden Pros about Queen Solis being pregnant and engaging in a wrestling match!?
Rudy Mac: Queen Solis said it herself! Females of her species become STRONGER when they’re pregnant, and she has NO concerns about the safety of her unborn child!
With a wave of her scepter, Queen Solis directs Flip Draco and the Dominars to follow her to the far corner where they climb through the ropes. The Dominars unstrap their tag team championship belts and hand them off to a nervous production assistant who quickly retreats from their presence.
Only Golden Ben Miller and the Draconian remain in the ring staring at one another.
Rudy Mac: It looks like the Draconian is the first representative of Draconium to kick things off in this five-on-five elimination match!
After all the music fades out, the bell rings and the crowd cheers in excitement at what’s to come. However, Golden Ben Miller and the Draconian continue to simply stare at each other.
DeShawn: The bell rang, Rudy! Why aren’t they wrestling!?
Rudy Mac: I’m sure they will when they’re good and rea-
Golden Ben Miller quickly lunges toward the Draconian and NAILS him with a punch square across the face. However, the Draconian barely reacts.
Rudy Mac: Hoo boy!
GBM gives it another shot, and again the Draconian seems unphased by the attack. Instead of going for another punch, Golden Ben Miller whips the Draconian off the ropes. However, the Draconian ducks under GBM’s clothesline attempt, boots him in the stomach and delivers a MASSIVE knee buster.
DeShawn: Eek!
The next couple of minutes features the Draconian lying into Golden Ben Miller with a series of power moves. The crowd pops off when Golden Ben Miller manages to stun the Draconian and drop him with a MONSTER scoop slam.
GBM jogs and tags in Cory Stenson.
Rudy Mac: It looks like the Golden Pros are going to fight fire with fire because Cory Stenson is the closest they have to a wrestler of the Draconian’s size!
Cory Stenson begins to lay into the Draconian with some power moves of his own, finally landing a devastating spinebuster. Cory quickly runs and tags in Seth Kard, who climbs to the top rope.
DeShawn: Is it smart to send in a little guy against someone like the Draconian?
Rudy Mac: This might be by design, DeShawn! First, they soften up the Draconian with the big guns, and then one of the Wild Kards flies in to get the three-count!
Indeed, Seth Kard launches out to perform his signature 360 leg drop.
SUICIDE KING-NO!!!
The Draconian rolls away at the last moment and lets Seth Kard violently smash onto the ring mat.
Rudy Mac: That’s a big misstep for the Golden Pros!
The big enigmatic Draconian tags in Dominar Fyx, who climbs in and begins to beat down Seth Kard. He whips Seth Kard off the ropes and FLOORS him with a shoulder block. When Seth Kard gets up, Dominar Fyx lifts him up and hits him with a sitout inverted front powerslam.
INTERDICITION!!!
Rudy Mac: This might be our first elimination!
1… 2… … NO!!!
The arena cheers wildly for Seth Kard’s kickout. When Dominar Fyx attempts to continue his attack, Seth is able to escape and tag in Corbin Fiscal.
Corbin Fiscal quickly rushes Dominar Fyx and nails him with a flying dropkick and then pulls Dominar Fyx up into a reverse brainbuster.
THE CASH OUT!!!
Rudy Mac: Could THIS be our first elimination!?
1… 2… … NO!!!
The match continues and Dominar Fyx is able to fight off Corbin Fiscal long enough to tag in Flip Draco. The arena cries out in despair for the former fan favorite who is still a mental captive of Queen Solis.
DeShawn: Does he look different now? Yes. But is he still somehow a beautiful work of art? YES!
Flip Draco shows off his acrobatic moves and plants Corbin Fiscal with a picture-perfect tornado DDT.
Rudy Mac: We saw Flip in action twice this season as Flip Draco and he was as good as when he was Flip Costa!
After climbing to the top roach, Flip Draco flies out and nails Corbin Fiscal with a senton elbow drop.
THE FLIPOFF!!!
1… 2… … NO!!!
Rudy Mac: NOBODY wants to be the first one eliminated!
Flip Draco stands up with an emotionless expression and picks up Corbin Fiscal off the mat, and then quickly whips GPW’s accountant toward the corner of the Golden Pros. Sean Kard tags in and enters the ring cautiously.
DeShawn: I’m not sure Sean Kard wants this smoke!
The wrestler once known as Flip Costa rushes Sean Kard and quickly overpowers him. Flip Draco splays Sean Kard out in the middle of the ring, but the elder brother of the Wild Kards surprises Flip with a small package roll-up.
Rudy Mac: Sneaky!
1… 2… NO!!!
Flip Draco gets to his feet and tags in Dominar Shaphre who cooly enters the ring.
Rudy Mac: We have two highly skilled technical wrestlers there now! Get ready for some advanced wrestling, folks!
DeShawn: There isn’t going to be a test, right Rudy?
Rudy Mac: No color commentator left behind, DeShawn! Just kidding!
The crowd oos and ahs as Dominar Shaphre and Sean Kard duel it out with a variety of technical moves. Their combinations of reversals send the crowd in a frenzy, but Dominar Shaphre gets the upper hand and knocks Seth onto the mat.
The smaller of the Dominars climbs to the top rope and launches into his signature moonsault off the top rope.
ORBITAL BOMBARDMENT!!!
Rudy Mac: THIS might be our first elimination!
1… 2… NO!!!
Sean Kard kicks out, and as the two gets to their feet, Sean stuns Dominar Shaphre and maneuvers him into a figure four leglock.
CRAZY 8 LEGLOCK!!!
Rudy Mac: Could our first elimination be from a tap out!?
The referee gets low and checks in on Dominar Shaphre whose face looks unpleasant but not necessarily tortured.
TA… TA… TA…
DeShawn: I know that would make ME tap out!
TA… TA.. TAP TAP TAP!!!
The arena bursts into cheering for the first elimination of the night.
Rudy Mac: My goodness! Sean Kard just made Dominar Shaphre tap out!
The referee breaks up the submission move, and Dominar Shaphre gingerly climbs out of the ring and takes his place ringside. Queen Solis makes a point to glare down at her minion with disappointment before she motions for the Draconian to re-enter the ring.
Rudy Mac: Sean must be feeling pretty confident because he isn’t going for reinforcements! He wants a piece of the Draconian!
Sean Kard proves to be no match for the Draconian, who quickly ragdolls Sean Kard around the ring. He finally lifts Sean Kard up from a gutwrench lift position and slams him down with a powerbomb.
ABDUCTION!!!
1… 2… … 3!!!
BOO!!!
Rudy Mac: That was a mistake on Sean Kard’s part not to bring in one of the other Golden Pros!
The referee helps Sean Kard get to his feet, and the Golden Pros each take a moment to pat him on the back as he exits the ring and takes his place down on ringside. Golden Ben Miller volunteers himself and climbs into the ring with the Draconian.
DeShawn: Golden Ben Miller. Draconian. Round two for tonight!
The two heavyweight wrestlers trade moves back-and-forth, and the crowd cheers wildly when Golden Ben Miller drills Draconian with an elbow to the head that forces the Draconian to fall down on his back in the middle of the ring.
Rudy Mac: I think I know what’s coming! It’s the most illustrious move in all sports entertainment!
Golden Ben Miller goes to pull off his kneepad in preparation for the Golden Knee, but the Draconian reaches up and punches GBM in the gut. With GBM holding his stomach, the Draconian flattens him with big boot to the head.
From the corner, Queen Solis can be heard commanding the Draconian.
Queen Solis: Halt! Bring in my pet!
The Draconian obeys the command and tags in Flip Draco.
Rudy Mac: We certainly know who’s calling the shots here!
Flip Draco immediately launches an attack of quick, acrobatic moves culminating with a bicycle kick that floors GBM.
He goes to launch himself with a moonsault off the ropes, but Golden Ben Miller rolls away and lets Flip Draco crash onto the mat. GBM quickly gets up and tags in Cory Stenson.
Rudy Mac: GBM is playing the survival game!
DeShawn: But I don’t know if Cory is really a good matchup here since he lost to Flip Draco at Gold Strike 25! This may be one of those scenarios where quickness overcomes brute strength in a conversely situated clash of styles that we see all too often.
Rudy Mac: Nice analysis, DeShawn!
DeShawn: What’s that, Rudy? I sort of blacked out there for a moment!
Cory Stenson does get the upper hand and is able to deliver a MASSIVE jumping piledriver on Flip Draco.
STENSON DRIVER!!!
1… 2… … NO!!!
Rudy Mac: Queen Solis must have transformed Flip’s skull into some sort of super helmet!
Cory Stenson raises Flip to his feet, but the “pet” of Queen Solis gets over and tags in Dominar Fyx. Dominar Fyx enters the match with fresh legs and quickly gets the advantage on Cory Stenson and delivers his sitout inverted front powerslam.
INTERDICTION!!!
Rudy Mac: I don’t think Cory Stenson was prepared for that!
1… 2… … 3!!!
DeShawn: Oh no, Cory!
BOO!!!
Rudy Mac: TWO Golden Pros eliminated!
The big hometown boy groggily gets to his feet, and the referee escorts him out of the ring where he takes a spot next to the also-eliminated Sean Kard.
Golden Ben Miller goes to climb back into the ring, but Seth Kard stops him. GBM smiles and nods at Seth Kard, who gets into the ring with Dominar Fyx.
Rudy Mac: It looks like Seth Kard is FIRED up!
Dominar Fyx gives a dark smirk and beckons Seth Kard to come at him, which the younger Wild Kard brother obliges. Dominar Fyx’s confidence quickly evaporates as Seth Kard out-maneuvers him with a series of quick attacks.
DeShawn: Sometimes speed overcomes power!
Seth Kard plants Dominar Fyx with a bulldog and scampers up to the top rope. The arena cheers as he flies out to deliver his 360 legdrop.
THE SUICIDE KING!!!
1… 2… … 3!!!
Rudy Mac: BOTH Dominars have been eliminated!
Dominar Fyx wearily gets to his feet and shakes his head in frustration before climbing out of the ring and taking a spot next to Dominar Shaphre at ringside.
Queen Solis nods to the Draconian who gets into the ring. Seth Kard heads back to the Golden Pros corner and tags in Corbin Fiscal.
Rudy Mac: Wise move for Seth to tag in someone else after Sean got eliminated by being a little too proud!
The Draconian and Corbin Fiscal prove to be a surprisingly even matchup. GPW’s head accountant fends off the Draconian’s powerful attacks and counters by pulling the Draconian into a reverse brainbuster.
THE CASH OUT!!!
Rudy Mac: That may have shaken the foundation of FedExForum!
1… 2… … NO!!!
The Draconian doesn’t just kick out, he bench presses Corbin Fiscal off him into the air. Corbin Fiscal comes down with a thud, and the Draconian gets up and grabs hold of him with a gutwrench lift before SLAMMING Corbin Fiscal with a powerbomb.
ABDUCTION!!!
1… 2… … 3!!!
Rudy Mac: The Golden Pros are down to just Golden Ben Miller and Seth Kard!
DeShawn: And Draconium still has the Draconian, Flip Draco and Queen Solis, herself!
After Corbin Fiscal is helped out of the ring, Golden Ben Miller holds Seth Kard back and gets into the ring himself. He and the Draconian step forward to each other.
Rudy Mac: These two guys have some SERIOUS business to finish with each other!
Apparently familiar with each other’s styles, GBM and the Draconian spend a couple of minutes countering each other’s arsenal. Finally, the Draconian picks Golden Ben Miller up into a tombstone piledriver position and runs toward the Golden Pros corner.
SLAM!!!
Rudy Mac: The Draconian just nailed GBM back-first upside down into the turnbuckle!
The referee emphatically motions to Seth Kard that some part of GBM’s body had touched him and thus tagged Seth into the match. The Draconian steps back and waits for Seth to enter while the now-groggy Golden Ben Miller is forced to get outside the ropes and watch.
DeShawn: Out of all the matchups, I think I like this one the least!
The Draconian is surprised when Seth Kard runs past him and trips him with a foot sweep. Seth then jumps up and nails a standing five-star frog splash.
1… 2… NO!!!
Queen Solis’ number one minion, the Draconian, throws Seth Kard off him and into the air.
Rudy Mac: Seth must be 10 feet in the air!
When Seth Kard comes down, the Draconian catches him by the throat, lifts him up and CHOKESLAMS the younger Wild Kard brother. Golden Ben Miller can be seen wincing at ringside.
DeShawn: OUCH!
Flip Draco silently climbs to the top rope and waits for the Draconian’s tag, which comes shortly thereafter. Flip then flies out and delivers a senton elbow drop onto Seth Kard.
THE FLIPOFF!!!
1… 2… … 3!!!
The crowd cries out after Seth Kard is eliminated.
BOO!!!
Rudy Mac: That’s now FOUR Golden Pros eliminated! If GBM wants to win this, he’s got to take out Flip Draco, the Draconian and Queen Solis all by HIMSELF!
Seth Kard is escorted by the referee out of the ring, and he groups up with Sean Kard, Cory Stenson and Corbin Fiscal down on ringside. The group yells words of encouragement at Golden Ben Miller, who climbs into the ring with a stoic face.
DeShawn: If anyone is up to this challenge, it’s got to be the Golden Warhorse!
Flip Draco steps forward and meets Golden Ben Miller face-to-face in the middle of the ring.
Rudy Mac: GBM IS FIGHTING FOR HIS VERY EXISTENCE HERE! If he loses, Queen Solis gets to turn him into one of her minions!
The wrestlers engage, and it’s an obvious clash of styles between a highflyer and an all-around old school power wrestler. The fans are treated to a spectacle when Flip Draco counters a scoop slam by twisting his legs around GBM’s head and throwing him to the mat with a huracurrana.
1… 2… NO!!!
Rudy Mac: It’s worth noting that GBM and Flip Draco nor Flip Costa have never faced off, so this is something new!
Flip Draco tags in the Draconian and the Draconian quickly gets to work wearing down GBM with a series of big moves. After dropping Golden Ben Miller with a sidewalk slam, the Draconian attempts to pick him up into a powerbomb.
DeShawn: Counter that, GBM!
Unfortunately, the Draconian completes the lift and PLANTS Golden Ben Miller with a powerbomb.
ABDUCTION!!!
Rudy Mac and DeShawn: Nooo!!!
1… … 2… … … NO!!!
A cheer unlike any other POPS from the fans in recognition of Golden Ben Miller’s resilience.
Undeterred, the Draconian picks GBM up again and tries to put him in position for another Abduction powerbomb.
Indeed, the Golden Warhorse is able to get out of the Draconian’s grip and then counter with an atomic drop. The Draconian jumps back awkwardly holding his groin.
DeShawn: I guess we know they have the same anatomy as humans!
Rudy Mac: No doubt!
GBM whips the Draconian’s legs out from under him, and delivers a standing elbow drop that keeps the Draconian stunned.
Sensing his opportunity, Golden Ben Miller pulls off his knee pad and throws it into the crowd where screaming fans dogpile upon one another to get the priceless souvenir.
Rudy Mac: I think this might be it!
Golden Ben Miller runs and pops off one rope and flies across to the other. When he reaches mid-ring again, he jumps straight up and SLAMS his unpadded knee into the head of the Draconian.
THE GOLDEN KNEE!!!
DeShawn: Put that move in a blender and inject it straight into my veins!
1… 2… … … 3!!!
Rudy Mac: Golden Ben Miller just ELIMINATED the Draconian!
Golden Ben Miller gets up and walks back to his corner where he leans back against the turnbuckle and rests with his arms on the ropes. The referee cautiously motions to a dazed Draconian that he has been eliminated and must leave the ring.
Rudy Mac: It’s now down to Flip Draco and Queen Solis herself… but pay no mind that Queen Solis hasn’t entered the match even once tonight!
DeShawn: Goodbye, Draconian!
The Draconian gives a quick glare over to DeShawn at the announcers’ table.
DeShawn: *GULP*
Queen Solis shakes her head in disappointment at the Draconian and points with her scepter for him to join the Dominars at ringside. She then looks at Flip Draco before she leans in and gives him a kiss on the cheek.
Rudy Mac: Flip Draco is now going to be fighting to keep himself as Flip Draco and he can’t even help it! What irony!
The former fan favorite Pretty Boy From Pensacola climbs into the ring with an everlasting emotionless face. Golden Ben Miller stands up straight from his resting position in the corner and walks out and meets Flip Draco.
Rudy Mac: Oh boy! This is getting serious!
The two wrestlers engage one another in a ferocious set of moves that ends with Flip Draco leveling GBM with a running scissor kick. With Golden Ben Miller on the ground, Flip Draco gets up to the top rope and launches into his signature senton elbow drop.
THE FLIPOFF!!!
Rudy Mac: For the love of everything holy, GBM’s mental independence and the hope of seeing Flip Costa’s beautiful face… KICK OUT!
1… … 2… … … NO!!!
The roof nearly blows off FedExForum when the Golden Warhorse survives Flip Draco’s finisher. The two men get back to their feet and continue to exchange moves back and forth.
DeShawn: I don’t know how Golden Ben Miller is doing this!
Flip Draco goes in for a crossbody block, but Golden Ben Miller grabs him in mid-air and DECIMATES Flip Draco with a scoop slam. GBM then stands over Flip Draco and reaches down to pull off his knee pad but realizes he doesn’t need to after delivering the Golden Knee to the Draconian just minutes earlier.
DeShawn: Get that blender ready, I’ll grab the needle and start working on popping my vein!
Rudy Mac: DeShawn! No drug references!
Golden Ben Miller runs and bounces off the ropes. He flies across the ropes and bounces again, and when he returns to mid-ring he jumps into the air and PLANTS his knee into Flip Draco’s head on the way down.
THE GOLDEN KNEE!!!
1… … 2… … … NO!!!
Everyone inside FedExForum lets out a disappointed exasperation in realization that GBM couldn’t close the deal on Flip Draco.
Rudy Mac: What’s it going to take!?
Flip Draco attempts to get back up, but the Golden Warhorse simply picks him up and plasters him down to the mat with ANOTHER scoop slam.
DeShawn: If it takes two hits of the good ol’ Golden Knee, I’ll take it!
Rather unexpectedly, Golden Ben Miller runs over to a corner and climbs to the top rope.
The Golden Warhorse precariously perches at the top with all 6’6” 275 pounds of his frame.
Rudy Mac: We NEVER see GBM go the top rope!
The rest of the Golden Pros, the rest of Draconium, and the tens of thousands of fans in attendance all watch in silence as Golden Ben Miller launches himself out and NAILS a senton elbow drop onto Flip Draco.
THE FLIPOFF BY GOLDEN BEN MILLER!!!
Rudy Mac and DeShawn: YES!
1… … 2… … … … 3!!!
Golden Pro Wrestling’s commentators can barely be heard over the raucous cheering by the GPW faithful.
Rudy Mac: Golden Ben Miller just ELIMINATED Flip Draco! And now it’s just Queen Solis who remains!
Down at ringside, Cory Stenson, Corbin Fiscal and the Wild Kards can be seen hugging one another and cheering on GBM. Golden Ben Miller gets up visibly exhausted and watches as the referee musters Flip Draco out of the ring.
Queen Solis, pregnant and still holding her scepter, cautiously climbs through the ropes and enters the ring where GBM waits. Her face presents an indominable glare now realizing that the outcome of the match is only up to her.
DeShawn: I don’t know what to think here, Rudy!
Rudy Mac: Just roll with it, good buddy!
The referee approaches Queen Solis and begins to emphatically direct her to leave the scepter outside of the ring.
Rudy Mac: That scepter certainly IS a foreign object!
Queen Solis simply stares as the referee, and Golden Ben Miller interjects to tell the ref that the scepter is not an issue.
Rudy Mac: It looks like Golden Ben Miller wants to allow Queen Solis to user her scepter!
The referee backs off with a look of disbelief but appears to agree with the sudden stipulation that will allow Queen Solis to use a weapon.
DeShawn: I don’t know what to think here, Rudy! GBM won’t turn down ANY challenge!
Golden Ben Miller and Queen Solis square off in the middle of the ring, and the crowd busts out into an impromptu chant.
G-P-W! G-P-W! G-P-W!
Queen Solis charges at Golden Ben Miller and kneels and spins her body. GBM instinctually jumps over the sweep of her outreached scepter.
Rudy Mac: That scepter has a SHARP double-moon blade on the end, and who knows what sort of supernatural powers!
DeShawn: It can cut and it can TRANSFORM someone into a Draconium minion! We know THAT for certain!
She approaches GBM and jabs her scepter forward multiple times while Golden Ben Miller is forced to bend backward side-to-side to avoid the razor-sharp end blades of the scepter.
He lunges forward and grabs hold of the scepter and pulls it in before delivering an elbow to Queen Solis’ face. Stunned, she takes several steps back and scowls back at GBM.
Rudy Mac: I bet the QUEEN doesn’t get that sort of treatment very often.
GBM steps forward and tries to grab onto the scepter again, but Queen Solis flicks her wrist and cuts GBM’s face with the blade. A steady stream of blood trickles down his cheek.
Rudy Mac: Be careful, GBM!
Ignoring the pain, Golden Ben Miller grabs hold of the scepter but is surprised by the strength of Queen Solis. The two both hold firm in a struggle of physical strength, but eventually Queen Solis manages to shove GBM backward away from her.
Rudy Mac: It feels like this could go either way right now!
The crowd watches on as Golden Ben Miller rushes Queen Solis, only to be sidestepped like a matador with a raging bull. Queen Solis trips GBM as he goes by and then attempts to slash her scepter down at the Golden Warhorse’s head.
DeShawn: Yikes!
GBM rolls out of the way, and the scepter’s blade gets stuck in the mat by the ropes. Golden Ben Miller grabs Queen Solis and rips her away from the scepter. He begins to deliver several punches, while carefully avoiding striking her midsection.
Rudy Mac: I think Golden Ben Miller is going out of his way to protect the baby, no matter what Queen Solis said before about being impervious to risking her baby’s life!
After laying Queen Solis out in the middle of the ring with a signature scoop slam, he wastes no time and runs to one side of the ropes. The entire arena LIGHTS UP at what’s coming.
DeShawn: This might be an overdose!
Golden Ben Miller bounces off the other ropes and runs back to mid-ring visibly exhausted. With one last burst of effort, he jumps and drops his knee on Queen Solis’ head.
THE GOLDEN KNEE!!!
The Golden Warhorse collapses on top of Queen Solis and hooks her leg.
1… … 2… … … … 3!!!
Rudy Mac and DeShawn: OH MY GOD!
The GPW camera shakes as the entire arena BURSTS in adulation and excitement. Golden Pro Wrestling’s in-arena microphones are overwhelmed by the decibel levels emanating from a sellout FedExForum.
Winner:
The Golden Pros via The Golden Knee
anchor
Amidst the raucous chaos of the arena, Golden Ben Miller gets up from Queen Solis and staggers back with several steps and falls against the ropes. Corbin Fiscal, Cory Stenson and the Wild Kards rush into the ring to help GBM stay upright.
Rudy Mac: I don’t think we’ve ever seen a GPW competitor give THAT much to a match! Unbelievable!
Likewise, the remainder of Draconium enter the ring and help Queen Solis to her feet. For the first time ever, her hair is unkempt, and she appears completely flustered.
A microphone is tossed into the ring by a production assistant, which Golden Ben Miller picks up and holds to his mouth. Still panting from exhaustion, he attempts to collect on the Golden Pros reward.
GBM: Alright, Solis. This is it. Time to transform our friend back into FLIP COSTA!
The crowd pops off in excitement and enthusiasm.
After collecting herself for a moment, she looks coldly back at Golden Ben Miller and speaks through the arena sound system without a microphone.
Queen Solis: …NO.
The Starfall attendees all gasp at her refusal.
GBM: No!? What was this all about!? You gave the word of Draconium that if we won, then you would change Flip back to normal!
Both Golden Ben Miller and Queen Solis stare back and forth for a moment, and then they both eye the scepter which is still stuck in the mat between the two factions.
In a split second, both Queen Solis and GBM rush toward the scepter and grab hold, ripping it out of the mat together. They struggle back and forth, and the end of the scepter begins to glow an iridescent blue.
Rudy Mac: Something special is about to happen!
As they struggle, Golden Ben Miller manages to force the scepter to point at Flip Draco, and a blue light beams outwardly and penetrates his body.
Queen Solis: NOOO!!!
The crowd screams in excitement as Flip Draco becomes engulfed in the blue light, and a final flash nearly blinds everyone in the arena.
DeShawn: My eyes!
When the fans, the announcers, and the wrestlers are collectively able to see again, their eyes behold the perfectly sculpted Flip Costa.
A scream of ecstasy lights up the entire FedExForum, and GBM lets go of the scepter while the rest of the Golden Pros gather around him. Everyone takes a moment to watch Flip’s reaction to his restoration.
After a moment of confusion, the Pensacola Pretty Boy looks down at his normal skin tone and wrestling attire, and a smile spreads across his face.
Rudy Mac: FLIP COSTA IS BACK!
DeShawn: My eyes… in a good way!
Rudy Mac and DeShawn: He’s… beautiful.
With a look of rage mixed with pain, Queen Solis rushes back to the Draconian and the Dominars. The group begins to coalesce into a blue light, but at the last moment, a figure comes running down the entrance ramp and slides through the bottom rope into the ring.
FBI Agent Leonard.
Rudy Mac: What is that gumshoe doing!?
Golden Ben Miller, Flip Costa and the rest of the Golden Pros all watch as Agent Leonard jumps into the blue light with the rest of Draconium as they fade away, presumably back up to the spaceship.
DeShawn: I know where he’s going, and it isn’t anywhere good!
Finally, only the Golden Pros and Flip Costa are left in the ring, and the group all comes together to hug and welcome Flip Costa back to normality.
The entire sold-out arena continues to cheer and applaud the reunion of Flip Costa with humanity.
Rudy Mac: Flip Costa saved THE WORLD in Season 4, and the Golden Pros saved FLIP COSTA in Season 5! Thank you for tuning into Starfall! From everyone at Golden Pro Wrestling, we’ll see you soon for SEASON 6!
The broadcast fades to black…
All illustrations from the talented David G.