Post by Amanda Hallsworth on Jun 22, 2008 12:38:09 GMT -4
((Due to Rhaps being banned from GHW aswell, he asked me to post this match))
>--Vladimir Strife--<
The bell rings out, signaling a silence among the crowd. Lizzie Morna stands in the middle of the wearing a lovely red dress, raising the microphone to her lips. Signs raise high into the air around the arena, proclaimed statements of the fans. Many support the current Charging Glory champion, saying such things as "33-1", "One SIC Man!", and "Tell me it's safe, Rhaps!". A select few others support the challenger with signs like "Smoking doesn't kill; Vlad does" and a few fans holding Crowns in the air, their symbol that the King will be victorious. No matter what side the fans supported, it was loud and clear that everyone was pumped for the showdown of the only 2 men to hold the Charging Glory title without losing it.
JP: Ladies and Gentlemen, welcome back to NeXuS as we prepare for what might be the biggest 1 on 1 match in GHW history. Now, as many may know, this is not the first time that Vladimir Strife has faced Rhaps. However, it was over a year ago that these men faced off and no one can deny the Rhaps has improved vastly since that match.
Ray: Yeah... I may not like it, but I do have to admit that Rhaps has gotten better. I mean, picking up the Charging Glory title not once, but twice and going undefeated during his title reign. He has come a VERY long way, but you also have to give credit to Vladimir. Though he hasn't really moved up much, it's mainly because there's just nowhere to rise when you're Vladimir Strife!
JP: True. He has been none the less impressive however. After an injury at Gods vs. Heretics, Vladimir made a return to GHW, taking out both Crazy Boy and The Classic Rocker in different matches at From The Ashes and later challenging Matthew Oliveira again and defeating him in the second Asylum Cage.
"Ladies and Gentlemen... the following match is a 60 Minute Torment. It is a 60 Minute Ironman style match where each man will be allowed 1 fall of each of the following styles: pinfall, submission, ladder, tables, last man standing, stretcher, first blood, 'I Quit' submission, and inferno. The are NO countouts and NO disqualifications. Introducing first... he is the challenger to the title..."
As Lizzie finishes that line, the letters 'V', 'T' and 'S' come up on the titantron, one after the other. People Hate Me by The Murderdolls (http://youtube.com/watch?v=8bGeWbf-BKA) plays throughout the arena via the P.A. system. The lights dim near to black, white bursts of strobed light flashing across the entrance ramp, illuminating only every other second.
"Weighing in at 234 pounds and standing at 6 feet tall... he hails from Romania. Vladimirrrrrr STRIFE!"
The curtain disappears in a flash as the strobes go, Vladimir swiping the useless cloth out of his way and stepping out to the top of the ramp. He throws his fists into the air, a middle finger extended on each, and then swings them down as he begins to make his way to the ring. Amongst the flash of the strobe lights, it seems as though he moves in slow motion. He slides into the ring and marches to the corner, grabbing the top ropes before climbing up and looking out to the crowd. Vladimir chews his gum, a grin on his face as he looks around to all the booing members of the audience and raises a finger to them before hopping off the turnbuckle and walking across the ring.
JP: Vladimir Strife with just utter disrespect for these fans tonight.
Ray: Yep... good ole' Vlad as usual!
Vladimir grabs the top rope at the middle of the side of the ring and steps onto the second rope, pushing them both down as he supports himself there, looking out at the audience once more. He spits his gum out down onto a passing cameraman and sticks his tongue out before getting off of the ropes and running the ropes to warm up a bit.
"And his opp-"
As Lizzie is getting ready to announce Rhaps, Vlad walks up and places his hand over the top of the microphone. He slides it out of Lizzie's hand, though she is reluctant to give it up.
"Hold that.. just a minute."
Vladimir paces a bit with the microphone in hand.
"Now, Rhaps... I have something to tell you. Something... important. You were right. I don't like to admit it, but you were absolutely right the other night. At the contract signing.. I did screw up. I, just like plenty of others, had already begun to sell you short. I wasn't taking this as a serious match at all.. hell, I wasn't taking you as a serious champion or wrestler. Little hard to take things serious when your opponent is best known for a goofy little show and eating strawberry ice cream with his tag team partner, life partner, whatever Wreckingball is to you.."
The fans roar with disapproval at the implied gay joke. Vladimir holds up a hand and imitates a talking mouth, giving a short, high pitched 'boo-hoo' into the microphone.
"Anyhow.."
The audience boos loud enough over Vlad now that he can barely be heard.
"Anyhow!"
Vlad raises his voice but the audience gets louder. He gets frustrated and soon an "ASS-HOLE!" chant begins.
"COME ON! SCREAM IT LOUDER!!! ASSHOLE! ASSHOLE! ASSHOLE!!!! KEEP IT COMING!!"
The audience yells it louder for a moment before calming down as Vladimir seems to want them to scream it.
"What's the matter? You seemed like you were having fun... Anyhow... what I was TRYING to say was that Rhaps, I know better now. You made it quite clear not to underestimate you and I promise you.... I won't. I'm going to take you to the limit and you'd better hope you can handle it. And as for these idiots... I hope they keep their little chants coming: all I need is 1 more excuse to snap an extra bone or two of yours tonight. So for the last time as an uncrowned king.... whether I lose my throne or get the crown.... LADIES AND GENTLEMEN!!!"
Vladimir grins as the boos start up again and he just tosses the microphone over to Lizzie Morna before throwing both middle fingers high to the crowd.
--
>--Rhaps--<
Vlad begins pacing the ring aggressively as he waits for the arrival of his opponent. After a couple of minutes there has been no indication that the Rhapsitastic One is going to show up to the ring. Hushed voices can be heard around the arena, talking in low whispers, casting suspicious glances towards the entrance ramp to confirm their suspicions. JP leans over to his broadcast partner and begins whispering animatedly to Ray. Ray raises his hands and calls Lizzie over, passing the message over to her, extending the game of Chinese Whispers to another participant. She nods almost regretfully as she seizes a microphone, entering the ring at the same time. She heads over to where Vladimir Strife is standing and spreads the message further. His face breaks out into a wide grin and he instantly relaxes on the spot whilst Lizzie takes centre stage, clearing her throat into the microphone. She casts a nervous gaze up the entrance ramp, allowing the seconds to drag by before an irritated Vlad shouts at her from the other side of the ring.
Lizzie: It appears that the Charging Glory Champion is nowhere to be found on the premises and as such, I have been informed that the winner and new......
Vladimir's celebration and Lizzie's announcement are cut short as the sound of a guitar hammering into life is heard, breaking the shocked silence around the arena. The lights around the entire building begin flickering wildly, causing many murmurs in the audience. A spotlight is thrown up at the top of the entrance ramp and something begins to rise slowly from beneath the stage. As the spectacle ascends to ground level, the outline of a drum kit and three men holding guitars and microphones in front of them is silhouetted against the bright backdrop. The arena lights flood into life as the band is suddenly illuminated.
The lead singer of Skindred throws his head forwards as he grasps the microphone passionately in front of him as the guitars burst into life vibrantly. He begins screaming out the lyrics to Nobody, the fans jumping up to their feet and begin screaming and shouting vehemently in support of the Safety Ranger. Vlad's face darkens as Rhaps walks into the arena from backstage, the heaving mass of humanity pressing in around him to get just one inch closer. Noise explodes to ridiculous volumes as Rhaps raises the title triumphantly over his head and two vast columns of fireworks explodes behind him. Green and red pyro streaks upwards, bursting cheerfully in varying hues of colour before gently drifting back to the ground. A sulphurous residue is left permeating around the arena as Rhaps points to Skindred, offering a wink, earning a nod in return.
JP: And Rhaps has entered the building. I was sure after the management told me that Rhaps had failed to arrive all day and that he wasn't anywhere to be found that Vlad would be crowned the new Charging Glory Champion without a fight. But here is the champion and my God Ray, he's looking good here tonight. And he's got every reason to be confident. He's remained relatively undefeated since the Redemption PPV where he defeated then New Age Champion in a ninety minute Ironman match. He is undefeated in every single Ironman match thus far while Vlad has not fought in such a match and he's won every time that title was on the line.
Ray: But he's also got every reason to be nervous Jimmy. I mean, look at the list of superstars that he has defeated. It’s literally a who's who of GHW. Matthew Oliveira, Brett Steel, Kingbear, Gnarfflinger the Butcher and even the man that's currently walking down that aisle. Every time we see Vladimir Strife in a big match environment we always have to ask the question how in the world is his opponent going to be able to do what nobody else can. And that presents a huge mental mountain to overcome. That in itself can put you at a huge disadvantage which can cost you the match.
JP: You know for once Ray you actually said something that I completely agree with and that was 100% accurate. You didn't even make a gay joke. What is up with you tonight? Is it seeing Vlad up close and personal again or is it something else that's actually turned you into a half decent colour commentator.
Ray: I choose not to comment Jimmy. Though you do have to admit that Vlad's got a great arse.
The Rhapsitastic One halts his progress half way down to the entrance ramp and points squarely at his opponent. Vlad takes a step forwards, eyeing him, hate being directed in waves at Rhaps. Rhaps holds the title out, almost offering it to him, tantalisingly close. Rhaps' semi-serious nature is contradicted by his ridiculous in ring attire. He is sporting knee length orange shorts with bright blue streaks going across it. Accompanying this he is wearing an orange t-shirt with '33-1' emblazoned in random directions across the material. Rhaps uses this to his advantage, holding the material out to Vlad and pointing at it enthusiastically, his face breaking out into a cheerful smile in spite of his seemingly sour mood. Vlad begins shouting vehemently at Rhaps before bringing his hands up to his waist and waving them side to side, indicating the title. Rhaps merely laughs it off and begins walking again, nodding to Lizzie to make the announcement.
Lizzie: And introducing his opponent. Hailing from Canterbury, England and weighing in tonight at 217 pounds. He is the High Flying, Death Defying, Rhapsifying SIC Maniac and the reigning two-time Charging Glory Champion. The man to finally throw Vlad's throne into the furnace and shut him up for good, Rhaps.
Vlad's head snaps to one side, staring a hole right through Lizzie. She shrugs helplessly and points at the Ice Cream Eater as she exits the ring. As Vlad turns his attention back to his opponent, Rhaps has already jumped up to the apron and is ducking his way through the ring ropes, entering the ring. The referee walks over and Rhaps hands him the title belt before motioning for a microphone to be passed to him. The stage hand throws one up and he deftly catches it with his left hand. He holds his hand up to the referee, delaying the beginning of the match as he raises the microphone to his mouth.
Rhaps: With all the words we've spoken to each other Vlad, there's only one thing left to say. With all of this equipment around us, I mean look, there's tables, stretchers, ladders, enough weaponry to fully equip the Iraqi army and its all for us to use against each other as we see fit. Amidst all this chaos there will be one beautiful shining moment where the Rhapsitastic One gets his hand raised as the winner. So with that said, there's only one last thing to say. Bring it!
Rhaps throws the microphone back to the stage hand as he takes a step back. The referee holds the title aloft, showing it to all four sides of the arena before signalling to the timekeeper to start the match. The bell is heard as a fresh chorus cheers breaks out.
--
>--Vladimir Strife--<
As the two men lunge hungrily at one another, arms stretched forward, they tangle them together in a collar and elbow lockup. The men stand their ground firmly, each pushing and shoving for a strength advantage in the early going of the contest. Vladimir pushes Rhaps into the corner after a moment, proving his dominance in strength and size. He breaks the hold, giving Rhaps a moment to breathe before taking his breath away with a hard knife-edged chop to the chest. The champ clutches his chest with one arm and responds with the other, bringing his forearm down across Vlad's left temple. The challenger stumbles backwards out of the corner, leaving Rhaps a bit of room now. The SIC maniac closes the gap, coming out of the corner with a high dropkick that plants its mark in Strife's sternum and leaves both men off of their feet.
JP: Rhaps takes Vladimir down early in the match, taking him to the mat with a devastating dropkick!
Ray: I'll say! He better enjoy this lead while he can though.
As the men begin to rise back up, Rhaps sticks his forearm against the chest of Vladimir and grabs his arm. He pushes his foe back into the ropes with his forearm, using a bit of bounce to his advantage as he pulls Vlad back from it and spins him around towards the opposing ropes with an Irish whip. Vlad hits the ropes hard and ducks his head down below a wild clothesline from Rhaps, running into the ropes again. As Vlad returns to Rhaps once more, he stops and grabs ahold of Rhaps' wrist and spins himself around on his heels, reversing the flow of the Irish whip and now sending the Rhaptastic one bouncing back. Vladimir goes low for a spinebuster, but Rhaps has other plans as he sets his hands on Vlad's shoulders and pushes himself overhead, running the ropes once more and coming back to Vladimir as he spins to meet him. The King meets him with a stiff right, slamming the balled fist against Rhaps' cheek and blasting him to the canvas.
Ray: A HUGE RIGHT! Vlad just laid out the chump!
JP: It's still FAR from over Ray, try not to get TOO excited.
Vladimir drops down besides Rhaps and hooks a leg, going for a pinfall as the referee slides into position. He begins the count slow, not too pressured this early in the match. At a mere 1 count, Rhaps pushes Vlad's arm off of him and breaks the count. Vlad shrugs and grabs his opponent by the back of the head, turning him around to face him as he pulls him up to his feet while standing. He pulls a fist back and shoots another punch into the jaw of Rhaps, sending him a few steps back into the ropes. Rhaps returns with a wild left, Vlad taking a quick step back to avoid the attack. He steps back in with fist cocked, locked and ready to rock as he focuses his strength into a stiff right to knock the teeth from his opponents mouth. Rhaps ducks the punch though and swings himself around Vladimir, arms locked around his waist in a hug. He flings his weight backwards, pulling the King back with him and rolling him onto his shoulders, the referee dropping to the mat once more.
1...2... and Vladimir sends Rhaps forward with the force of his legs, the holder of the Charging Glory title slipping out between the top two ropes and falling to the apron, glancing off and landing at ringside. Vlad gets up to his feet, taking his time as he knows that his opponent landed unkindly on the outside of the ring. As he raises up, he motions at his waist about an invisible title, laying his claim once more that he will be the next champion. The fans boo Vladimir, but he keeps his eye on Rhaps, watching him as he raises to his feet again by the corner apron. He takes a sprint and drops down into a baseball slide, hitting air as Rhaps moves out of the line of fire. He seizes Vladimir's boot and raises it high, then brings it back down swiftly, overextending the muscles in Vlad's knee and getting a scream from him in the process. Rhaps does it again before swinging the leg into the corner-post to damage it further. Vlad yelps out as Rhaps targets in on the knee that's plagued him in previous years. The normally goofy competitor now pulls Vlad's leg against the turnpost, stretching the knee and dishing out more pain to his adversary until he rolls out of the ring and plops against the black mats so that Rhaps can no longer pull his legs against the thick steel post.
JP: Rhaps is really taking it to Vlad in the early going here. He's already targeting Vlad's proverbial Achilles Heel.
Ray: Jimmy, you're such an idiot! He was targeting Vladimir's knee, not his heel!
Rhaps punts the abdomen of the undefeated tyrant before lifting him up to a vertical position. A padded green glove fires from the seemingly broken heap of man and catches the champion on the chin, followed by it's purple counterpart, each rocking the world of Rhaps and breaking his hold on Vlad. Vladimir turns himself around on the ball of his foot as he rushes in, a sharp elbow finding it's way against the side of Rhaps' head and barreling him over the barricade. The clang of steel is heard as he tumbles across the fans' seats. As they hit the steel with a small bang, it gives Vladimir an idea as he pulls Lizzie's chair from beside the timekeeper's table and folds it up, preparing to work on his First Blood fall.
Rhaps pulls himself to his feet, using the barricade unfortunately as a lurking predator waits on the other side, silent and unseen as the unsuspecting Rhaps raises up into the danger zone. Vladimir swings hard and right, Rhaps turning out of the way and catching the blow across the shoulder and falling back against the steel chairs that seat the front rows of the audience. He brushes them out of the way, making room to walk and give distance between himself and the man out for his blood. Vladimir tosses the
chair into the audience, laying out a middle aged woman that was trying to cheer Rhaps on, something he'd later be fined heavily for. As the woman dropped to the concrete, the Safety Ranger spun around, quite alarmed by the very unsafe practice of chair throwing.
Vladimir takes a run at the barricade and comes off of the ground with a leap, catching the top of the rail with his right foot. Before his weight can even settle upon it, Vladimir pushes off and throws himself forward, dropping his upper body back and tucking his knees up to his waist. Like homing missiles, he pumps his piston like legs out and rams his heels into the pectoral muscles of the man he'd promised to give the most hellacious, dominating performance too. Rhaps is thrown backwards from the exerted force, slightly resembling the overly dramatic performance of actors shot in B-level movies. A lumpy forest of steel legs and seats break his fall, feeling as though they've broken much more as odd curves and points pound his kidneys, shoulders, and thighs.
His opponent is perhaps even unluckier, a comical "THWACK!" sounding out as the lower back of his skull connects with the concrete floor. The rest of his body follows the fall loosely before jerking to the side, the King laying on his side now, eyes open and gazing out blankly. The tips of his fingers tingled as though they'd fallen asleep, but he barely even registered the feeling, his world dim around the edges and fading in a bit with passing seconds.
JP: HOLY SHIT!!! IT'S OVER! How do you continue from that?!
Ray: I don't think you do... but these men still have over 50 minutes to go! There's no turning back now, JP!
Rhaps, racked in pain, makes his way to his feet before his attacker. His body already feeling bruised and battered, he limps forward to Vlad and latches a hand onto his hair, using it as leverage to pull him to his feet still. Rhaps grabs the back of Vlad's pants waist and hurls him over the top of the protective barricade. The King does a crash and burn in front of the announce table, barely having the energy or consciousness to do anything else. Rhaps climbs over the banister slowly, a few fans moving back in and tagging him on the shoulder supportively, the champ wincing with each slap on spots that are certain to be black before the end of the night.
Rhaps pulls the cover from the side of the ring up and looks beneath, finding what he wants quickly before grabbing the edge of it and sliding it out. The table sends a series of cheering through the crowd, it being one of the many ways to score a fall in tonight's championship bout. He flips the legs out and looks back to a cheering crowd, then to a still immobilized Vladimir Strife, before flipping it over right side up. He pulls Vlad back up to his feet and leans him against the table, cursing his aching lower back, courtesy of the top rim of a steel chair. He lifts Vlad's legs and lays him out on the table, wondering if it could have been any harder if Vladimir was conscious. He lifts a single finger high, pointing up as he signals to the audience that he's going high-risk, receiving applause in return. He climbs onto the outskirts of the ring once more, looking back to his opponent as though maybe planning a backflip onto him.
JP: Here we go! Rhaps is about to make history! He will be the very first man to EVER score a fall on Vladimir Strife!!!
Ray: It's not about that though, JP. It doesn't matter how many times Rhaps gets a fall on Vladimir unless he can make it at least 1 more time than Vlad gets on him. Nice little honors are good on the side, but neither of these men give a damn about streaks, records, or falls. In the end, it's all about that strap of gold and what it symbolizes. No matter if you've never lost or you've lost almost every match in your career, it's that title that really means your something, that you're the best.
As Rhaps looks back for one more time, Vladimir pops up off of the table and reaches out for his ankles. He grabs him quickly and pulls him down, the Ice Cream lover mashing his teeth against the apron he stood on seconds before. Vlad ducks his head low and tosses him into the ring, following close behind. As Rhaps quickly gets up to his feet, he throws a solid fist against the jaw of the oncoming Strife. Vlad shoots back, lifting his hand to his jawline quickly. Rhaps follows in, but Vlad raises a boot into his gut, doubling him over. He tucks Rhaps' head between his thighs and grabs him around the abdomen, yanking him up and into a powerbomb position. Vlad carries him to the side of the ring, aiming carefully for the table. As he goes to chuck the SIC maniac through the wood, Rhaps straightens himself out and grabs the top rope, landing his feet on the outskirts of the ring.
--
>--Dave ‘The Lightning‘ Carter--<
Vlad, frustrated that Rhaps managed to hang on, swings his right arm toward the SIC Maniac. His knuckles connect with the jaw of Rhaps, sending his body swinging backwards. Yet Rhaps still manages to hang on, holding the top rope with both hands tightly, even though one of his foot is now floating in the air. He tries to land it back on the apron, while Vlad sends another hard punch straight to the center of his opponent's forehead. As the Hardcore King continues to try and put Rhaps through the table, and the Charging Glory champion keeps himself on the apron with all means possible, the crowd is suddenly filled with loud cheers. Neither one of fighting men pays attention to that, yet the JP and Ray do, turning their attention to the crowd section behind Vladimir.
~~JP~~
What the hell is going on over there?
~~Ray~~
I don't know... Wait! I see now! It's Dave Carter! He's making his way through the fans.
~~JP~~
Dave Carter? What business does he have here? Don't tell me he is going to try and throw another one of his parties here.
Dave indeed is making his way through screaming and cheering crowd, getting toward the barrier. A security guard runs toward him, trying to stop Carter, but Dave just pushes him out of his way, then goes on to jump over the barrier onto the concrete at ringside. Waiting for nothing and no one, Dave slides into the ring under the bottom rope, getting back on his knees quickly when in the ring. He looks at Vlad, rage burning in his eyes. Yet the Hardcore King doesn't notice The Lightning, as he is behind him. Dave moves up to both of his feet and with strong steps makes his way toward Vladimir. With only 2 feet between Dave and Vlad, Carter shouts out.
~~Dave Carter~~
Hey Vladie!
Strife hears that perfectly and instantly turns around, sensing danger. And just he does, he feels hard knuckles smashing into the bottom of his jaw, what sends Vlad nearly falling backwards, only hitting the ropes to remain in vertical position. Dave then quickly lifts his right knee up, thrusting it into the guts of Vlad, making him bend over. Not stopping the attack for one second, Dave lifts his right knee again, this time it goes crashing into the face of Hardcore King, smashing Vlad's nose. Vlad nearly falls down again, but shows that he still has a lot in him, remaining in vertical stance. Instead Vlad just spins around, facing away from Dave and leaning a bit over the ropes. Carter smiles while looking at Vlad, trying to regain control of what's going on, but his smile disappears after a moment. The Lighting grabs Strife by the shoulders and jumps up, planting both of his knees into his back. Dave then falls backwards, falling on the mat, but bringing Vlad with himself as well as he executes the Party Cracker. The Hardcore King lets out a cry of pain, as he grabs his back with one hand while quickly rolling out of the ring and on to concrete outside.
~~JP~~
What the hell is this about?! Dave just came from the crowd and attacked Vladimir Strife!
~~Ray~~
Well Dave said himself that Vlad should watch his back. And the Party Cracker just showed why.
Back in the ring, Rhaps now stands steady, yet looks confused at what just happened. He follows Dave with a questioning look in his face as Carter gets back up on his feet and looks at Vlad, rolling from pain outside the ring, with a grin in his face. Rhaps shouts at Dave "What the hell are you doing?!", drawing his attention. Carter turns to SIC Maniac and shrugs his shoulders, giving Rhaps an innocent as if nothing just happened here. He goes on to extend his hand towards Rhaps, slowly approaching him, while the Charging Glory champion looks at him still confused and a bit pissed of. Rhaps seems to be hesitating if to accept Dave's hand shake and thus accepting his help or just send him far far away, since he didn't want that help. Yet before Rhaps could even come to a decision, Carter suddenly drops to his knees and thrusts his right arm between the second and bottom ropes and between Rhaps legs, who still was on the apron. Dave then bend his arm over the elbow and lifts it up quickly, nailing Rhaps "family jewels" with his upper right arm. This forces Rhaps to let go of the ropes and double over a bit, and thus losing all the defense he might have had. At that moment, Dave quickly jumps back up on his feet, steps backwards a bit and quickly rises his left leg up, thrusting his left boot into the forehead of SIC maniac, sending him flying of the apron and down through the table that Vladimir was trying to put Rhaps through in the first place. These actions are followed by a loud chorus of boos from part of the crowd, as the other part are silent and not sure what exactly is going on.
~~JP~~
Oh my god! Dave Carter just hit a low blow on Rhaps and send him crashing through the table, scoring a fall for the man he just attacked moments ago, Vladimir Strife.
~~Ray~~
I.. I really don't know what to say... I understand why Dave attacked Vlad, but Rhaps... even though that goofy so called "champion" deserves it, I can't think of a reason why Dave would do that.
Dave stands by the ropes, grinning widely as he looks down to the outside of the ring where Rhaps is lying on top of a broken table, almost unconscious. Carter enjoys the sign for few moments before beginning to leave. He gets out of the ring and begins to walk up the ramp, following both Vlad and Rhaps, both who are still down, with his eyes. Evil grin covers his face, while the fans continue to boos loudly. Dave acknowledges that, as he rises both of his arms up and flips both of his hands middle fingers to the crowd. This provokes even more boos. One of the fans, leaning over the barrier as much as he can, flips a finger to Dave himself, while Carter just laughs at that. Yet a second later he furiously pushes the fan with both hands sending him backwards into other people thus falling over and making 5-6 other fans fall over as well from chain reaction. This creates even more laugh for Carter as he continues his way up the ramp. Just before disappearing behind the curtain, Dave takes one more look to the ringside, spotting Vladimir, who is slowly trying to lifts his upper body of the ground. The Hardcore King looks at Carter, rage burning in his eyes. He begins to shouts something at The Lightning, but Dave doesn't hear it and doesn't seem to care. He only gives Vlad his signature self-confident smile before returning backstage.
--
>--Rhaps--<
Vlad staggers forwards, leaning against the ring apron as pain wracks through his entire body. He glances over at his opponent Rhaps squirms in pain amidst the wreckage of the table, his form causing the wood to splinter and fracture into his exposed skin. The score on the titantron changes showing Vlad has indeed scored a fall against the Charging Glory Champion while many in the audience stand up, explosive angers and tempers being showered in vast waves of hatred, directed at both the Hardcore King and Dave Carter. Their voices soar into the air as an overwhelming chant reverberates around the arena. A thunderous 'Bull-shit' can be heard as the thousands of fans pressed and crammed in around to ring continue to share their displeasure at the decision. Vlad slumps forwards, a huge grin spread across his face as sweat pours from him in torrents, testament to the sheer exertion that both men have exerted in the match thus far as the timer counts down a further fifty-two minutes remaining in the hellacious match up. The Rhapsitastic One begins to move, his head rising slowly from the concrete as his face creases in pain as he shakes his head back and forth, unbelieving that Dave Carter betrayed him. Vlad attempts to move, earning a spasm of pain to jolt up his spine, causing him to cry out and halt his advance relatively quickly.
JP: Can you believe what that snake Dave Carter just did to Rhaps? Here I was thinking that Dave had come out in retribution for Vlad's actions and he takes Rhaps out as well. And in the process he earned Vlad a fall against Rhaps and the officials have accepted that as Vlad winning a tables stipulation against the Ice Cream Eater. I'm sorry but I have to side with these fans when I say it is utter bullshit and frankly I hope this comes back to haunt Vlad. I know he had nothing to do with it and was a victim of Dave's attack too but Rhaps deserves better. I mean he is the reigning Charging Glory Champion and now Vlad may have been given a definitive lead here early on in this match. Where is the justice?
Ray: You know Jimmy; you really do bore me sometimes. I mean Rhaps has just as much opportunity to score a fall against the Hardcore King. Frankly I don't think he's going to do it because he's going to be outclassed but he's the champion. He should just accept the fact that he's one fall down and fight back. If not then he clearly deserves to be champion and Vlad's chiselled jaw and bulging biceps will soon be hugging that title belt, just as he deserves. Now stop your whining about this and let me watch the match in peace.
Vlad finally powers his way to his feet while Rhaps' hands claw uselessly in front of him, still clearly dazed from Dave's attack earlier in the match. Three more minutes have dragged by, causing many in the audience to begin shouting words of encouragement at either man in the hope for a continuation in the action. The Bambi Killer limps his way over to his opponent, a way grin smeared across his features as he catches another glance at the score, hardly believing his luck. He drops to one knee beside Rhaps, looping his hands around the Safety Ranger's neck, half dragging, half lifting him up from the cold concrete beneath him. The Rhapsitastic One stumbles blindly as Vlad helps him to a vertical base, swaying dangerously while his opponent drapes his arm around his head, raising the other high into the air. He lets out a primeval scream, signifying that a DDT is imminent to the shocked fans. Abruptly Rhaps bunches his hand into a fist, hitting out viciously into the flat of the Hardcore God's stomach.
The triumphant look on Vlad's face gives way to one of mild annoyance as Rhaps heaves his weight against his opponent, pushing him off and breaking his grip. Rhaps throws his weight forwards almost desperately, his fist hammering high into Vlad's chest, causing him to buckle slightly as pain emanates across his chest while it turns a bright crimson. He looks up from where Rhaps' fist impacted against him to gaze upon his sworn enemy. Vlad breaks into a run, charging headlong at the Safety Ranger, powering his way forwards at incredible speed even after the damage already inflicted. Rhaps' reactions are lightning quick, as he drops to all fours, anticipating Vlad's next move. He powers his back upwards, hooking Vlad's legs as he does so, flipping him over his back in a half back body drop. The Hardcore King is rammed into the concrete back first, the stinging sound of his back slapping painfully onto the ground below causing many in the audience, including Ray, to wince.
Rhaps begins crawling his way towards the ring while Vlad begins to stir behind him, despite being dumped painfully onto the concrete. He rolls over onto his stomach, cradling his head in his hands as he firmly shuts his eyes in an attempt to numb or block the pain out currently screaming at him from every fibre of his body. The Hardcore King, to the surprise of many, lifts himself up to a kneeling position, ignoring the pain surging through his back while the Charging Glory Champion continues to clutch and drag his way with excruciating slowness to the ring apron. He turns on the spot, eyeing his opponent hungrily as he begins stalking forwards, his footfalls sounding like vast thunderclaps as he stomps his way towards his opponent. The Bambi Killer stops beside Rhaps' prone form, his eyes bulging in contemplation of the pain that can be inflicted on his enemy and that beautiful moment when his hand is raised at the end of the match, proclaiming Vladimir Tepes Strife to be truly unbeatable. He bends down, seizing Rhaps' arms as he hoists him into a kneeling position, Rhaps' head leant uselessly against him. Before Rhaps can struggle, the Hardcore King nails him with a couple of vicious left hands to the temple, rocking his head to one side limply. Vlad lifts the Safety Ranger to his feet, looking around for something to utilise. His eyes fall onto the ring post, nodding to some of the fans sporting a Vlad banner in the front row. He loops his arms around Rhaps' neck and breaks into a run, dragging him with him. He lets go at the last second and Rhaps' skull smashes into the steel, causing the champion to spill to the floor unceremoniously into a heap on the floor while a jubilant Vlad shouts triumphantly, celebrating the turn of events.
Ray: And once again Vlad shows why he's been undefeated for so long. I think Rhaps will have a hard time recovering from such a shot and the match has already taken a huge toll on him. I mean, look at him. He's been laid out by the Hardcore King while Vlad is on his feet and looking almost just as good as he did as when he first walked into the arena.
JP: I don't know exactly where you're looking Ray but Vlad is really exerting himself on the dynamic of this match tonight. Now Rhaps has been rolled into the ring and I think it’s just a matter of time before that lead that Vlad has got only grows because Rhaps doesn't look like he'll be able to move let alone get any offense in. And with forty-five minutes left in this match Vlad has all the time in the world to extend his lead.
Ray: There may also be a danger that Vlad runs out of stipulations to win. I mean, there are only nine ways in which a fall can be won. Vlad may well have gotten all nine before the thirty minute mark, and if that does happen Rhaps might as well just go home half an hour early.
Vlad rolls under the bottom rope after the Charging Glory Champion. He rolls Rhaps onto his back and hooks the leg as he forces his forearm across the Ice Cream Eater's face, making it even harder for Rhaps to be able to kick out of the pinning predicament. The referee falls to the mat and his hand rises dramatically. It descends quickly, slapping the canvas twice before Rhaps lets out a huge scream, powering his right shoulder off the mat, shocking many in attendance. Ray jumps up to his feet disgustedly and begins shouting vehemently at the in ring official while Vlad has a look of mild disbelief swamped across his facial features. Rhaps begins moving amidst the fresh torrent of cheers and chants in support of the SIC Monster, many fans fervently waving Rhaps banners in a vague attempt to energise him and urge him back into the match. The Rhapsitastic One appears to be slightly rejuvenated as he claws his way to a vertical base, his eyes locking with Vlad as both men stare daggers at one another. Vlad's patience snaps as he races in, closing the distance between both men. He launches his arms out in front of him, pushing the Charging Glory Champion back against the ropes before heaving his weight against him, Irish whipping him to the opposite side of the ring.
As Rhaps snaps back towards the Hardcore King, he suddenly counters Vlad's attempted assault, breaking into a role abruptly. He attempts to lift his leg into the air but pain rockets up his back from Vlad's previous attack from earlier in the match. The Safety Ranger's leg shoots forwards, blasting Vlad's forearm as he rolls by him, ending in a crouched position while Vlad begins swearing vehemently as he holds onto his left hand. Rhaps capitalises on the advantage, crouching behind him before reaching his hand up, hooking both his legs. Suddenly, he yanks Vlad, rolling him over onto his back and pressing his shoulders firmly into the canvas while leaning his weight on him in a futile attempt to gain the pinfall. The crowd chants along as the referee's hand slaps the canvas, before an intermittent 'oooh' shudders through the thousands of people huddled around the ring watching the action unfold as Vlad's legs shoot upwards off the mat. Rhaps half rolls to his feet while Vlad launches himself to a vertical base, annoyance showing in his eyes. He lashes out instantly with a wildly flung right hand. By sheer dumb luck, Vlad's fist finds its mark, crashing into Rhaps' throat with tremendous velocity. Immediately, Rhaps drops to his knees coughing violently while Vlad's eyes bulge in his head, rage coursing through his system.
Vlad launches himself into the air, throwing his feet forwards, hurtling towards Rhaps' chest. His heels crash into the flat of his opponent's chest, driving the air from his lungs as he slams into the canvas back first, the noise reverberating around the ring. Vlad wastes little time as he drags Rhaps into the centre of the squared circle, dropping over him as he lifts both of Rhaps' feet off the mat. The referee drops to his knees once more, craning in to get a good view of Rhaps' shoulders as his hand thumps on the mat with a dull thud. Just as the referee makes a two count, Rhaps throws his legs backwards, much to the surprise of the Bambi Killer. Unexpectedly, Vlad is flipped over Rhaps and he gently thumps into the canvas as the Safety Ranger rolls atop him, causing the referee to adjust position and begin counting another pinfall. His hand rises seemingly slowly into the air before thundering into the mat for a one count before Vlad pushes Rhaps off, grunting from the effort of heaving Rhaps' dead weight to one side.
JP: Rhaps nearly got a sneak pinfall in there and you can tell by the reaction if these fans that they are disappointed that Vlad had little difficultly in kicking out of that pinning predicament. Though you have to hand it to Rhaps, he's shown the heart of a true champion and he's being extra resilient here tonight. I'm sure that's going to frustrate Vlad and that might just give the Charging Glory Champion the edge he needs to walk away with the title.
Ray: Do you know who you're talking about here Jimmy? Rhaps is in the ring with Vladimir freakin' Strife. He knows when to bring the pain and I'm damn well sure that he has the mental capacity as to not get frustrated and let Rhaps walk away with a single fall here tonight. Ok I admit, Rhaps is getting a couple of shots in but for the most part Vlad has been dominant and I'm sure it'll continue in that vein for the next forty minutes.
Both men gradually work their way to their feet, eyeing one another suspiciously as the firmly plant both feet on the canvas. The action in the ring stops as both Rhaps and Vlad stare out into the sea of people enveloping them on all sides. The fans stand on their feet as one chant pierces through the stifled air, adding to the exuberant atmosphere. Thousands of voices lift him as the crowd begins chanting 'This match rules' repeatedly while both competitors nod in agreement. They turn their eyes back to each other, standing while the score and the time remains an invasive fixture to one side of them. Rhaps is the first to break the status quo, swinging his fists wildly, connection into Vlad's abdomen. Vlad explodes in response, a huge right hand nailing Rhaps in the jaw, causing him to stagger backwards and drop to one knee. Vlad continues to press the advantage, his fists crashing into The Safety Ranger's back. Rhaps lifts one arm up, blocking yet another attempted right hand before surging back up to his feet and blast Vlad with a vicious uppercut. Vlad's vision blurs as tears begin to stream from his eyes, stumbling backwards clumsily. Rhaps enters hyper drive as his fists blur, raining punches down onto his weakened opponent, and a sheer flurry of stiff shots finding their mark.
Vlad tries to protect himself against Rhaps' deadly assault as his attack begins to slow. The Charging Glory Champion begins breathing heavily from the sheer amount of effort exerted at keeping Vlad off balance. The Hardcore King blinks a couple of times, his vision clearing. Rhaps seizes the advantage while it remains, taking hold of Vlad by his arms before bouncing him against the ropes behind him. Much to the surprise of the fans, Rhaps bends his knees as Vlad bounces back. He gives a scream of effort as he lifts the bigger man off of his feet, managing to power him above his head, holding precariously. His arms begin to buckle as Rhaps desperately turns to face the turnbuckle. Instantly he throws his weight forwards, dropping the Hardcore God forwards at terrifying speed. He turns his head in mid air before the collision, the side of his head slamming into the turnbuckle, causing many fans to hold their jaw in sympathy. Vlad's frame smashes back first onto the canvas, his hands flying up to his head after pain begins sweltering through his lower jaw after the sickening Flapjack slam into the corner. Many of Rhaps' fans are on their feet, waving their banners enthusiastically.
JP: Oh my God, Rhaps just dropped Vlad into the corner with a sickening flapjack slam. Who knew Rhaps had the physical capacity to hoist a man that outweighs him by seventeen pounds and slam him onto the turnbuckle like that? But the real question now is that has Rhaps managed to score a first blood fall against Vlad after that vicious manoeuvre?
Ray: Oh God of Hardcore, please make it so that Vlad isn't bleeding. I'll be good for the next year; I'll only call hardcore matches from now on and nothing with Rhaps in it if you just grant me this one prayer. I couldn't take it if that goofball had just evened the scores.
JP: And the referee has just checked and he's waving his hands. That's a no on the first blood stipulation win for the Charging Glory Champion. He could've done with it but I'm sure that'll just make him even more determined to inflict more punishment upon the challenger for his title.
Instead of going for a cover, Rhaps makes his way to the ring ropes on the opposite side, rolling under the bottom rope to the outside. He drops into a crouching position, lifting up the material draped over the ring apron. He begins searching for weapons amasses under the squared circle, his eyes quickly scanning the deadly assortment and array of weaponry available, occasionally throwing a glance into the ring to check on Vlad's progress. As Rhaps hunts under the ring, pain continues to throb through Vlad's skull, causing his head to loll to one side uselessly. He tries to pick himself up but he falls back to the mat, the ground shaky underneath him. Through blurry, tear streaked eyes he sees a sixteen foot ladder being slid into the ring by the Safety Ranger before he drops underneath the ring again to retrieve a second ladder. He slides this one underneath the ring ropes before jumping up to the apron and sliding back into the squared circle. Realisation dawns quickly and Vlad forces himself to a vertical basis, despite the agonising pain screaming at him from his face. He breaks into a half run, jumping horizontally into the air as Rhaps lifts one of the ladders up, almost hugging it fondly into his chest. Vlad's feet smack against the steel, driving the ladder painfully into Rhaps' chest and stomach, winding him instantly. His grip immediately loosens and the deadly weapon falls useless to the canvas while Vlad moves to press the advantage. He raises his forearm high before bringing it down sharply, slapping his arm across his chest with a stinging knife edge chop. The all too familiar 'woo' is emitted by various members of the audience whilst an ugly red welt appears on the SIC Maniac's chest.
The Hardcore King loops his arm around Rhaps' head, signalling to the crowd for a DDT once more. Rhaps begins to react but Vlad throws his weight backwards before Rhaps can counter. His head is blasted into the steel, causing a sickening thud to resound around the ring, causing many to grimace in pain. Rhaps' body thrashes as pain throbs mercilessly in his forehead. Vlad flips him over quickly and begins stamping the mat in frustration after seeing that there is no bleeding yet on Rhaps' face. The referee steps in and begins shouting at Vlad to calm down, earning the middle finger salute in response before he turns back to taking care of his opponent. Vlad drops to his knees beside his stricken opponent, taking a hold of his ankles. He begins dragging Rhaps into position, much to the confusion of the fans. Vlad looks down once more and nods satisfied at his work as he retrieves the second ladder and places it on top of the Rhapsitastic One. Vlad's intent immediately becomes as he makes his way to the nearest corner and begins climbing the turnbuckle. He stands atop it, almost hovering on the brink of oblivion as he keeps his eyes firmly on his unmoving target sandwiched between the two ladders. He throws a wink into the audience as he bunches his leg muscles, hurling himself into the air. At the same time Rhaps throws the top ladder into the air desperately, attempting to launch himself out of harm's way. The ladder smashes Vlad squarely in the chest, pain coursing through his system. Vlad's body drops out of the air at incredible speed, slamming the ladder across Rhaps' legs causing him to scream a blood curdling cry of pain as the steel either side rip into his flesh. A fresh chorus of 'holy shit' chants can be heard reverberating around the arena.
JP: Oh my God! Both men have been taken out in a single move. Vlad went with the high risk while Rhaps was able to half counter the splash, nailing Vlad in the face with that ladder before getting his legs crushed. Both men will need serious medical attention at this rate and frankly I don't think either of them cares how much time is left on the clock.
Ray: I do Jimmy, and my poor Vlad. How could Rhaps do something so nasty and evil to you? See, this just goes to prove that Vlad really deserves to be world champion of Rhaps is going to use dirty under handed tactics like that.
JP: What are you talking about Ray? You like Vlad and he uses dirty tactics all the time. And Vlad was only defending himself from the manoeuvre that he had planned.
Both men lay outstretched in chillingly awkward positions. Vlad rolls himself to his back, staring up at the arena light while Rhaps begins crawling his way out from underneath the metal heaped on top of him. He eventually picks himself free from the wreckage and lays unmoving on the mat, gasping heavily while shutting his eyes in an attempt to block the pain as every nerve ending in his body feels like its on fire. Vlad is the first to begin dragging himself to a vertical base, looking hazily at the carnage around him. He eventually stumbles to his feet, bending over to pick up one of the ladders. He clumsily kicks the other out of the way as he unfolds the monstrosity, casting his gaze upwards to one of two briefcases dangling in mid air majestically. He places one foot on the ladder and begins to half climb, half drag himself up the huge metal mountain towards his prize to extend his lead. The fans begins showering and heaping cheers of encouragement on the Safety Ranger as he begins to move, thrashing his limbs about as he struggles to power his way to his feet. His eyes glance upwards, witnessing Vladimir Strife clawing his way to yet another stipulation win. He moves desperately, awkwardly pulling himself up to his feet. Much to the confusion of everyone he bends down and sets up the second ladder alongside the first and begins to follow suit, ascending upwards slowly.
It soon becomes a crawl to the top, both men vainly trying to be the first to reach their respective prizes. Vlad reaches the briefcase first, his hand outstretched as his fingertips bounce clumsily against the plastic. Rhaps is quick behind him, reaching the top of his ladder a few seconds afterwards. Rather than reaching for the briefcase he continues to climb the ladder, placing his feet on top of it. The Safety Ranger drags himself into a standing position atop the metal mountain, wobbling from side to side in an attempt to maintain his balance. His gaze shifts upwards just as Vlad's hands hook themselves firmly around the plastic prize. Rhaps breathes in sharply before bunching his leg muscles and throws himself forwards. The fans stare open mouthed as Rhaps flies through the air towards his opponent, his arms outstretched in front of him. He crashes into the side of Vlad, ripping him from atop his own ladder, his hands not letting go of the briefcase.
The case springs free of their bindings and crashes to the canvas below as Vlad's grip is broken almost immediately after freeing it. Both men continue to hurtle downwards, seemingly hovering in mid air as looks of both shock and amazement run through the crowd. Vlad manages to hook his arms around Rhaps' waist, half suplexing him in mid air. Vlad's back smashes into the corner of the turnbuckle, causing him to thrash on the canvas, writhing in pain. Rhaps' flight takes a wholly different course, flipping him over the turnbuckle. He puts his hands up too late as his face ricochets into the steel steps at tremendous velocity, the steel ripping into his flesh and causing torrents of blood to burst forth from his facial features. The referee looks around awkwardly seeing the blood on Rhaps' face and the briefcase bouncing uselessly on the canvas. He signals to the timekeeper and Vlad's score increases to three while Rhaps' remains at zero.
JP: Oh my God! What the hell did Rhaps just do? He speared him from the top of that ladder and now both men have fallen into twisted heaps of humanity. Can either of these men actually walk after such a brutal assault? And even worse for Rhaps, by hitting that move he has given Vlad two more stipulation wins. It can't get any worse for the Charging Glory Champion right now.
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