Post by Dominik Santiago on Oct 19, 2008 1:03:16 GMT -4
Joe-
Joe moves back in for the attack but Santiago, whom has gained more knowledge since their last bout, waits for him to move in only to move out of the way. The charging Samoan, bounces off the ropes face first only to back up into a forearm to the back. Santiago, not letting up, drives his knee into Joe's gut causing the Samoan to wince as his breath had been temporarily ripped from him. Joe backs up into the ropes again and walks along them trying to get away from Santiago. The New Age champ doesn't give him the distance he desired as he chases him down and pelts him with repeated punches and elbows to the back of the neck. The flurry causes Joe to back into the nearby corner and as he pleads for Santiago to let up, he is only met with a uncaring fist of furry type shot that cracks him in the jaw. As his head cocks back from the nasty shot, Santiago only damages him more as he cocks his hand back before sending it forward, smacking Joe across his bare chest. The backhand chop brings Joe's head back as he begins coughing.
Santiago changes up the attack sequence as he lifts his leg and drives his sole into Joe's knee. He follows up with another stiff kick only this time the foot finds Joe's gut. Having seen enough, the referee moves in and tries to pull Santiago away but to no avail. Dominik just keeps on the assault as he grabs on the ropes and drives his shoulder blade into Joe's gut only taking his breath from him more with the shoulder thrust. The ref, taking a different approach, begins his count.
1!
2!
3!
4!
The count is enough to draw Santiago, who had just leveled Joe with another nasty hook, away. The Samoan Submission Machine collapses out of the corner onto the canvas knees first. He falls on the ropes and begins gasping for air while Santiago stands triumphant in the middle of the ring, his fists in the air grabbing the support and attention of the crowd.
Fuzz:
Al, I have never seen Samoa Joe dominated like this since he's been here in GHW! As soon as that bell rung it's like that light bulb in Santiago's head just went.... DING!
Big Al:
Me neither! This is a side of Santiago we have never seen. Him taking the fight to the opponent! Ah, maybe if he did this more often I wouldn't despise of him so much!
Santiago finishes his minute of posing as he gazes down at Joe, still trying to regain his breaths. Santiago rushes over to Joe and grabs him by his arm and head and lifts him up off the ropes and drags him to the center of the ring. Santiago then releases Joe's arm and grabs him in between his legs and reaches for his back. Santiago then lifts the Samoan Submission Machine upside down before dumping him backfirst on the canvas with a bodyslam that shakes the ring and leaves the arena stunned in awe.
Joe lifts his head off the mat and reaches and grabs his lower back. Santiago, taunts Joe and poses some more gaining more appreciation from the fans that continue to rally behind him.
Dominik snatches Joe by his head and lifts him up to his feet. Dom then shoves the groggy, tired, hurt Samoan into the corner. He gets the fans back into the match as he unleashes a flurry of backhand chops that turn Joe's chest red. The fans begin chanting "WOO!" which only brings a bigger smile on Santiago's face. As Joe stands breathless in the corner, Santiago backs up and crouches down to one knee. The New Age champ, looking to inflict some more damage on his rival, suddenly leans up and charges at the corner. The Samoan Submission Machine, finally showing some signs of life, protects himself as he doges the attack by moving out of the corner. Santiago, finding nobody home, staggers out of the corner in which he just hugged with his face and chest. He turns around to find a 280 pound Samoan Submission Machine rushing at him and with quick thinking, drops down to the canvas causing Joe to hurdle over him and rebound off the next set of ropes. Dominik, now looking to take advantage, leaps up into the air and brings his knees to his chest before fully extending his legs out driving them into the face of Joe. The clever standing drop kick, causes Joe to backpedal uncontrollably into the ropes where he falls through the middle and top. The 280 pound freight train lands head first on the concrete floor.
Santiago surveys the arena, the fans if not before, now fully behind their champ. Dominik leans over on the corner top turnbuckle and stares at Joe who rests on the guard rail. Dominik, looking to take the attack, Joe's punishment, Joe's undeniable torture to new heights, slowly begins scaling the top rope. When he reaches the top, he turns his body around so that his back faces a unsuspecting Submission Machine. Dominik, looking back at Joe, waits for the right moment, the right second and when he gets it he takes full advantage. The New Age champion, gracefully launches himself into the air when Joe turns around and lands on him with his body. The top rope moonsault seemingly takes Joe out as the fans show their appreciation, rising to their feet chanting the name of their hero.
Big Al:
Good God! Top Rope Moonsault onto Samoa Joe! Santiago takes the risk and it pays off! Lord we've got to see that again!
The screen splits as the replay segment comes on. It shows Santiago leaping like a Olympic Diver, off the top rope and falling onto Joe. The last part, is shown in slo-mo making the scene only that much sweeter.
Fuzz:
That was one hell of a Moonsault right there Al! Santiago is pulling out all the stops early and thats they way you've got to do it.
Big Al:
Santiago is making it hard to hate him right now because this is a very good strategy. Hell, never thought something this clever could come from someone so feeble minded. Nonetheless, we both know Dominik will screw this up and let my boy Joe back into this fight. For Dominik's sake though, he just better hope the screw up isn't so costly.
Dominik rolls off of Joe who still lays back first on the concrete floor of the arena. The New Age champ takes a breather as the flurry seems to have taken away a lot of his stamina. Dominik makes it to a vertical base and begins to pace himself as the ref starts his ten count. When the referee reaches the count of 7, Dom grips Joe by his hair and wrestling tights, and by 9, tosses him back into the ring followed by himself.
Santiago rolls over on his chest and rests his face on the mat as Joe turns over on his side and reaches for the ropes. Dominik, not going for the pin, shows everyone that he has something else planned for Joe who finds the middle rope and begins using it to rise to his feet. Dominik stalks his prey, his eyes bulging, his tongue sticking out as he looks ready to strike like the cold hearted viper. Joe manages to make it to his feet but still collapses onto the top rope, as he looks exhausted. The Samoan Submission Machine, grabs his lower back once again only before grabbing his head which caught the worse of the moonsault. When Joe turns around, Santiago rises from one knee and to his feet very quickly almost like we wasn't crouching in the first place. He then lunges at Joe and wraps his arm around Joe's head pressing on his face with his forearm. Santiago then turns his back to Joe and he begins running but Joe, who either had the maneuver scouted or was playing possum, uses his strength to push Santiago off of him using his momentum to send him crashing into the ropes.
When Dominik rebounds Joe capitalizes by placing one arm between Dom's legs, before reaching over his shoulder with the other arm. Joe then spins Santiago over onto their back. Joe, with his chest pressing against the champs, then simply falls to the canvas dropping his full 280 pounds on top of Santiago who slams down on the canvas back first. The scoop powerslam buys Joe enough time to fully recuperate as he rolls off of Santiago who lets out the first of many screams to come.
Fuzz:
Good God! Joe just nailed Santiago with that Scoop Powerslam! And if you think it hurts before, imagine the agony you'll feel when a nearly 300 pound behemoth does it. Dominik went for the SKO early and that may have indeed cost him.
Big Al:
Just what I was talking about! Dominik should have worn Joe down some more but instead he goes for an SKO which I knew would backfire. That's just the opening Joe needs to get back into this bout!
Dom-
Joe rolls off of Santiago and onto his chest before leaning his head up off the canvas. His face, once showing his frustration and agony he once was feeling in the early goings is replaced with the hateful cold stare as he rises to his knees. He purposely rises to his feet at a slow pace before leaning over on the top rope and patiently waiting for young Dominik Santiago to lift his head up off the canvas and after he does, Joe takes a breather and makes his way over to Dominik. Joe grinds his teeth and squints his eyes as he snatches Dominik's hair and further helps him off the canvas, yanking and pulling his hair until Dominik reaches his knees. Joe then slips his head under Dominik's arm and grabs both his legs before charging, with full steam, at the corner driving Dominik's backside hard into the turnbuckle padding.
Joe then releases him, and throws his arms over the top ropes leaving him chest and face open for business. Joe, arrogant yet cocky, places his hand under Santiago's chin before quickly removing it and bringing it back so that it slaps Santiago across he face. Before Dominik can recover from the disrespectful gesture, Joe quickly unloads on his with a series of chops and punches across the head and chest. When Joe ceases with his punishing flurry, he grabs Santiago by the wrist and after slipping under it while twisting it, whips Santiago across the ring to the corner across. Joe then charges at the corner but because he took too long, Santiago moves out of the way causing Joe to crash chest first into the ropes.
Santiago waits patiently on the ropes for Joe to turn around and when he does, he leans back for extra momentum and rushes Joe while extending his arm out. Joe ducks his head down and avoids the clothesline while wrapping around Santiago's waist and when he gets behind him all the way, lifts him up into the air over his chest while falling and bridging back slamming Santiago's head and neck into the canvas with the devastating yet out of nowhere German Suplex. Joe though, keeps his wrists locked around Dom's waist and rolls over causing Dominik to roll over on his chest before lifting he and himself back to their feet. Joe then transitions his hands from around the waist to underneath his armpits before locking his hands around his neck. Now with the full nelson 100% locked, Joe uses his strength and lifts Santiago into the air while once again leaning and bridging his back driving Santiago's head, neck, and shoulders once again into the canvas. Joe once again turns over after the successful Dragon Suplex, and as he turns Dominik over on his chest again, he moves his hands back down to around his waist as they make it slowly back to their feet. Joe the grabs Dom's wrists and crosses his arms arms under his chin. Joe then once again and for the final time, leans and bridges back using the straight-jacket hold as extra leverage lifting Dominik over his chest and driving his head and neck once more into the canvas. Joe keeps the arms locked and with Dom's shoulders pin down from the X-Plex, the ref slides down theatrically and makes what actually is the first count of the night.
-Fuzz- Good God! Joe German Suplexes Santiago, then holds on for the Full Nelson Suplex, then holds on for an X-Plex. Unbelievable!
-Al- And he has the strength and energy left to hold on for the pin. We may have our new, deserving, New Age Champ right here!
1!
2!
Just before the ref's hand hits the canvas for the third time and can give Joe his first championship, Santiago uses his will and strength to break free of the hold and get a shoulder up which ultimately maneuvers him out of the pinning predicament.
Joe rolls over onto his knees before balling his fists and hammering down on the canvas as his frustration begins to mount. The 280 pounder then grabs Dom's head with both hands and as he makes it back to his feet, slowly lifts the hurting body of Santiago back up. Joe then turns his back to Santiago before reaching and grabbing around his head and pressing on it with his forearms. As he moves to the side, he begins kneeling only to pull Santiago forward, flipping him over his shoulder and onto the mat.
From there the Samoan Submission Machine bends down while turning his hand over and striking the sitting yet unsuspecting New Age Champion over his bare back with the backhand chop only to be followed by a quick stiff kick to the chest that immediately causes Santiago to fall on his back. And with the wind temporarily knocked out of Dominik, Joe runs and bounces off the ropes before leaping into the air and dropping his knee straight across the throat of Santiago. The knee drop induces spit from Dominik's mouth and as his eyes begin to cringe, he rolls away and onto his stomach while Joe slowly stands back up, triumphant and satisfied by the quick, deadly combo he just unleashed.
-Al- Huge Snapmare, chop to the chest, aww the stiff kick! Then he drops that knee right on top of his throat! Good grief!
-Fuzz- And thats not just a regular knee drop no sir! It hurts when anybody does it but imagine a big fella, bouncing off the ropes for added momentum and then drops his full 280 pounds onto your throat! That devastating right there!
-Al- Thats why I'm so big on Samoa Joe! He comes off when he makes that entrance to the ring, as a mindless nearly 300 pound, sluggish, nonathletic fatso but he is so much more. He's got rare speed for his frame, he's quick, very athletic. The only difference between him a Cruiserweight is because he's a freakishly strong 280 pounder.
-Fuzz- There's no doubt about that in my mind. It's a whole different ball game when he's leaping over top ropes and spinning and twirling in the air. A rare specimen is Samoa Joe. I'd like him more if he was more respectful and not a self-centered bastard but I guess you can't always get what you want, eh!
Joe licks his lips and rubs his chin before once getting on the attack. He bends down and grabs the hair of Santiago, who was trying to get his jaw repositioned on his face and yanks him back to his feet. Santiago bends over and lifts his head down only to receive another breath draining back chop across the bare chest that causes him to stagger into the corner. The chocking New Age Champion tries to suck it up and regain control in the bout as he lifts his leg up and drives it into the sternum of a relentless Samoan Submission Machine. Dominik follows up from the kick with a series of his own chops which come after a stiff hook to the nose that send Joe backpedaling. Santiago, feeling a new found energy boost, gives Joe another stiff punch that keeps him reeling. Santiago grabs Joe's head and slips his elbow under and cuts it up clocking Joe in the chin with the European Uppercut that gets him wobbly. Santiago then looks to take him off his feet as he leaps into the air and extends his legs out forward, planting them into the chest of the 280 pound freight train. The Standing Dropkick doesn't knock Joe off his feet but rather sends him backfirst into the nearby corner.
As Joe stands, attempting to recuperate in the corner, Santiago kneels down before charging at him. Santiago leaps into the air only to be caught by Joe, who catches him with one arm that under one of Dom's. Joe then falls down to his knees slamming Santiago on top of his head and neck with his patent, ST JOE!
Joe, doesn't take another breather as he jumps right back onto the horse. The Samoan Submission Machine leans on the ropes and sizes up Santiago who rolls on his back into the center of the ring. From there, Joe bounces off the ropes before leaping into the air as if he is attempting a leg drop, only to drop his elbow straight into the heart of the New Age Champion.
-Fuzz- Oh My God! Senton! First he dropped him onto his head with the counter, the ST Joe, then he once again dropped his 280 pounds straight on top of Santiago.
The ref slides down on top the mat after Joe rolls back onto Santiago and hooks his leg.
1!
2!
Once again, just before the ref can get his hand down for the third time, Santiago is able to get his shoulder up only this time just barely.
Joe once again hits the canvas as his frustration continues to build. The unhappy Samoan Submission Machine begins scratching his head and grunting. He gives the ref a dirty look but the referee only replies to him with a simple two finger motion signaling that he only got 2 counts. Joe takes a moment to rest and think about what he must do to put down the champ while the champ himself, slowly, slowly crawls to the corner where he rests his head seemingly no longer knowing where he is.
Joe turns, and burns a hole in Santiago's head with his cold hearted, grimacing stare. The 280 pounder rises back to the canvas and rushes to Santiago's corner and places the sole of his foot straight onto Santiago's young, handsome, attractive face before he begins to crack a sadistic smile. Joe then ruthlessly rubs the sole of his foot across Santiago's face with the facewash that proves his lack of respect for the champion. The ref rushes in after about the 4th go around and pulls Joe out of the corner and yells at him trying to speak some sense into him while attempting to control him. Joe only backs up a bit before shoving the ref out of the way as he charges at the corner to a groggy New Age Champ who looks completely battered and bruised.
Joe extends his leg out and looks to knock out Santiago's pearl white teeth but only to get caught in the middle rope due to Santiago rolling out of the way showing he still has life and a light bulb shining bright in his head. The fans begin to rally Santiago uses slides over to the ropes and slowly uses the middle and top rope to get to his feet. By then, the overanxious rhino, Samoa Joe, is able to untangle himself and refocus on the task at hand. He turns around to Santiago who is still a bit tipsy and extends his arm out. He swings it at Santiago in an attempt to behead the champ only to have it ducked. As Joe turns his head around and body around, Santiago lifts his leg high into the air while twisting his hips and turning himself side on to The Samoan Submission Machine catching Joe straight across the mouth with his foot. Santiago falls down onto his side while Joe tips over like a big oak tree and falls to the canvas.
-Fuzz- Shuffle Side Kick! What a kick to the jaw! He ducked that clothesline and took advantage with that quick, deadly kick! Whether it was instinct or desperation, Santiago has bought himself the time he needs to get some air into his lungs as well as regain his energy!
-Al- Yeah, I as hoping for Joe to take off Santiago's head but he ducked it and even after taking this long, tasty beating, he managed to get his leg high enough to drop Joe with that superkick! Now the champ has to pray to God he can regain control of this bout!
The ref begins his ten count as both superstars lye on the canvas, both taking deep breaths and both trying to get up. The support of their fans only helps them further as half of the arena chant "Lets GO JOE!" and the other chant "Lets GO DOM!" The cheer leading of the fans eventually get both of them up at about the 8 count, only Joe beats Santiago to the punch, literally. The Samoan Submission Machine strikes first, hitting Santiago with a mean right cross. Dominik backs up a bit but comes back with a punch of his own, only to have Joe comeback with his own. The first fight begins and after Santiago has a right hook parried, Joe retakes control as he lifts his leg into the air before driving it with enormous force into Dom's gut causing him to leap into the air for a brief moment.
Joe follows up with the monster kick by clocking Santiago with a hard right and taking his stamina and breath away with a nasty backhand chop that sends the champ reeling and collapsing onto the ropes. Joe then grabs Santiago with both his hands while cocking his head back before snapping it forward and cracking Santiago across his forehead with his own. The head butt causes Santiago's knees to jelly up and as he looks like a strong gust could tip him over. With that, Joe rushes to the ropes and bounces off, charging at Santiago with high speed. Santiago exploits Joe's momentum by slipping down and grabbing onto the top rope at the last moment causing Joe to trip and fall over the ropes and land on his head on the outside.
Dominik rolls over after a minute of resting and thinking of how he just dodged would could have been a knockout blow of a bullet. The champ slowly rises to his feet and grabs his forehead as he searches for blood. He then stretches his neck and as Joe slowly rises to his feet, he thinks about the success of his last high risk maneuver. After a few seconds, he comes to a consensus and rushes and bounces off the ropes and when Joe lifts his head up. Dominik jumps onto the top rope before gracefully launching himself off while backflipping in mid air. The New Age Champ comes down like a falling star right onto Joe's head causing the Samoan Submission Machine to crumble and fall to the concrete like a bridge with a poor stability. The fans jump out of their seats and show their appreciation with their signature "Holy Shit!" chants. The scene feels like de-ja-vu- of the early moments of the bout with both men laid out on the concrete floor and looking up at the ceiling.
THE "The HOLY SHIT chants continue to flood the arena before the , GH-DUB chants take over."
-Fuzz- Oh My Goodness! Al, Did you, Al, did you see that, did you just see that? He spring boarded off the top rope and hit a Shotting Star Press in mid *censored* air! That was unrealistic! How he is still able to do that after taking all that punishment proves he is a true definition of a fighting champion! Kudos Dominik!
-Al- I hate Santiago 100% of the time but I will have to side with you on this one. Joe almost took him out and Dominik cleverly pulled the ropes down. He then took another huge risk and it was a graceful Spring Board Shooting Star Press that paid off. Holy Shit indeed Colin!
Dominik makes it to his feet at the ref's 6 count and grabs Joe tights before slowly rolling him back into the ring. He struggles to get in himself but finally does at the 9 count. He shoves Joe further, until he rolls over on his back in the center before draping his shoulder over on top of his chest. The ref slides over into perfect position and makes the count that the Santiago fans hope is the nail in the coffin and the Joe fans pray isn't the end.
1!
2!
Joe-
At the last moment, Joe rolls his shoulder over breaking up the cover to a stunning dismay. Santiago buries his face into the canvas before scratching his hair as if it is inhabited by lice. The scratching then moves from his scalp to the canvas itself, the frustration now building in the champion while Joe places his hand on his chest, his lungs feeling like they have collapsed.
The peeved, frustrated New Age Champion slowly rises to his feet and leans over on the ring rope not missing a single blink as he continues to stare down the groggy, exhausted Samoan Submission Machine. Dominik then quickly moves over to Joe and grips him by his head and slowly lifts him up from behind. As Joe reaches his toes, Santiago places his arm around his neck and bends him over his own back before dropping down to one knee on the canvas folding Joe up over him and hurting his spine in the process with the modified back breaker. Joe falls to the canvas, planting his face in the puddle of sweat on the canvas while rubbing and tending to his lower back. The New Age champ, eyes looking like he has been possessed, once again slowly rises to his feet.
The sluggish Samoan, with drool hanging from his bottom lip, slowly turns on his side not noticing Santiago slowly creeping up behind him. Joe grabs the bottom rope and pulls it to himself like a stranded survivor reaching for a helicopter rope. As Joe begins to pick himself back up Santiago drops down to one knee and extends his arm out before pleading to Joe with his hand to turn around. Dominik begins shaking his head as if he is going insane, his hair flying around his face getting into his mouth and his eyes. The New Age champ slowly rises as Joe makes it to his feet holding his ribs looking down at the canvas while hunched over. Joe finally lifts his head up reaches for the top rope one more time before turning around to the venomous cobra lurking behind him.
Santiago leaps up onto his toes while lunging at Joe head and successfully wrapping his arm around his neck. Santiago turns but only to have his 'SKO' maneuver countered once again as Joe uses his strength to push Santiago off. The shove sends Dominik moving forward but slightly off balance and as he turns around he sees Joe rushing at him with his arm shortly extended out. Dominik ducks under the arm and takes his own and throws it across Joe's chest and holds his shoulder. Santiago then sweeps Joe's leg while still bringing one forward and crouching forcing Joe's injured lower back onto his knee countering the lariat into an STO backbreaker. Santiago though, holds onto Joe and lifts him off his knee and back up onto his feet before leaping backwards, planting the Samoan Submission Machine face first into the canvas with the Reverse STO.
Big Al:
There it is the Final Destination and it couldn't have come at a better time for Santiago!
Fuzz:
And a worse time for Samoan Joe. He countered the SKO once again and just when you thought he would regain the upper hand he was just leveled and like you said, out of nowhere with the Final Destination. This one has to be in the books Al!
Santiago rolls Joe over before turning over on his back and laying down on Joe who's shoulders are pinned down and eyes barely open. The two sweaty, tired superstars wait as the referee begins running over. The thought of a successful title defense only moments away flying around like a frisbee in Santiago head and the thought of losing after all he had worked for flying around in Joe's head. The fans, whom were already on their feet, anxiously anticipate a kick out or a three count.
The referee slides down, his body halfway out of the ring and after raising his right hand into the air, makes the count.
1!
2!
The ref then stops his count just before smacking the canvas for the third time. The loud arena stand, some cheering as they wonder if that was just it. A few groups of Samoa Joe fans turn their heads in shame and lower their posters while the Santiago fans jump up for joy. The camera then zooms in at the ref once again who then points at Samoa Joe's leg. The arena then goes wild as Joe's foot hangs on the bottom rope. The ref shakes his head 'no' while motioning it with his arms as Dominik Santiago slides off of Joe's torso and once again, buries his head into the canvas.
Fuzz:
I, I, Al I can't believe it. He got a foot on the ropes. What ring presence! I still can't believe it thought! I thought this one was over for sure after that devastating blow! What a match!
Big Al:
I'm as stunned as you are! There was no way in hell Joe was gonna kick out of that so I guess you could say it was lucky that the ring ropes happened to be in reach. Boy was that a scare there for those Joe fans and a heartbreak for the Santiago fans.
Fuzz:
Oh this match has been a roller coaster from the get-go and we are still on the edge of our seats. I don't think any fan can afford to leave the arena right now because I have a strong feeling the end may be near.
Santiago turns over once again, his face turning red, his mouth poked out and his fists clinched. The veins begin to pop out Santiago's arms and shoulders as he unballs one fist and grabs Joe's hair. The New Age champion, pulls Joe to his feet, and the sluggish barely able to stand Samoan Submission Machine finds himself lifted off his feet, carried, and shoved back first into the corner. Dominik lifts the Samoan Submission Machine once again and props him onto the top turnbuckle. Santiago begins climbing up himself and as everyone is worried and or anticipated what Santiago has in store for Joe.
Dominik begins pelting Joe in between his eyes with full fisted shots that almost cause Joe to lean back and fall out of the ring. Santiago then takes Joe's arm and throws it over his shoulder before grabbing onto Joe's tights. As Dominik tries to lift Joe up, Joe instinctively grabs onto the top rope preventing Santiago from lifting him into the air. Dominik then throws Joe arm back to his side and once again starts nailing him with shot after shot. Dominik goes for a hook but Joe grabs it and hits him with a hard shot to the ribs that cause Santiago to stop in his tracks. From there Joe grabs onto Dominik's head and cracks him in it with his own almost causing him to tip over with the headbutt. As Santiago stands wobbly, Joe grabs him by his pants and pulls him over to him before grabbing and pulling the Dom's arm over his farthest shoulder and lifting his body over his shoulders. Joe holds onto Santiago's and stands up on the top rope.
Santiago looks down at the canvas, a few feet below him and begins to regret his decision to goto the top with the 280 pounder. Joe then begins leaning over at the top before falling down off the top and onto the canvas driving Santiago skull into the mat. Dominik rolls over onto his back, his head jerking awkwardly on the mat from the Death Valley Driver. Joe, on his back himself, slowly turns over and drapes his arm over Santiago chest attempting the pin.
Big Al:
Good God Almighty! That was a insane maneuver! Death Valley Driver from the top rope! Oh this one is over Fuzz, there is no way Santiago kicks out of that one, no one in hell! New, New-Age-Champion right here! Make the damn count ref, make the count!
Fuzz:
Joe softened him up and shifted his brain with that one, nasty headbutt and then he just dumped him on it. One D.V.D. is dangerous but from the top, thats almost unheard of! Dominik can't have enough left in the tank! Here comes the ref, this one may be over right here Al!
Big Al:
No, not can't Colin, this one is over!
The ref slides over and raises his arm into the air before making the count.
1!
2!
Just like Joe had done minutes prior, Santiago shocks the arena and sends it into a frenzy in the process as he senses the bottom rope near him and gets a foot on it. The ref stops his count just in time and screams to Joe, "You Got TWO, TWO JOE, TWO!." The Samoan Submission Machine, just like Dom, rolls off of his opponent and buries his face into the mat. The frustration already had taken over Joe's mind as he begins beating the canvas in with heavy shots.
After a minute of beating himself up, Joe takes a deep breath and cracks his knuckles. He wipes some sweat out of his eyes and bends over and grabs Santiago's head. The camera pans into Dominik who's lip has been busted. The blood drips from Dom's lips as he finds himself standing and leaning in the corner. Joe places his arms over the ropes and lifts him up onto the top turnbuckle as he had been himself. With the tables turned, Joe looks to go for the knockout blow as he returns previous favors to Santiago via full fisted punches.
Dominik finds himself in noman's land and Joe tries to take advantage as he tries to tucks Santiago's head on his shoulder. As Joe reaches for Santiago legs, the maneuver is interrupted by desperation biting from the champ. His head finds itself sliding from under Joe's grasp as he takes shots at Joe's gut. Santiago opens him up with stiff backhand chops that redden Joe's chest and almost knock him off the top. The job gets done though, when Santiago smacks Joe in his forehead with his own causing the 280 pounder to tip over and fall on his back to the canvas. The ring shakes but Santiago finds a way to stay on the top.
Santiago slowly stands up, and catches himself as he seems to almost fall over. With the fans chanting "Santiago!", Dominik then leaps from the top rope and rotates simultaneously at a 360 degree angle. Dominik's leg comes crashing down across the chest of the 280 pound behemoth beneath him. The New Age champ, out of desperation or last resort, connects with the Corkscrew Leg Drop.
Fuzz:
Holy Shit! Corkscrew Leg Drop! Corkscrew Leg Drop! I don't believe my eyes! He countered the Muscle Buster, the devastating Muscle Buster and nailed Joe with another high risk maneuver! 3 for 3, pin em kid, retain your championship!
Santiago crawls over onto Joe and drapes his arm over his chest while burying his head in it at the same time.
The ref slides over and makes the count!
1!
2!
Dom-
The ecstatic arena that had already been in a complete frenzy turns it up a notch as the building roofs comes off due to the new state of pandemonium caused by Samoa Joe getting his shoulder up as the ref was a second away from hitting the canvas for the third time. The superstars get the ovation from the fans with the "G-H-Dub" chants flooding being heard from every corner and every part of the arena. Santiago, the bloody, broken, battered, tired, frustrated, New Age Champion slowly falls off of Samoa Joe who is motionless on the mat. Santiago crawls on his back to the corner and he just sits there and shakes his head back and fourth in disbelief. The New Age champion, slowly makes it to his feet, his pain becoming an impediment , holds his back as he bends over and kicks Joe in his side. The kick is not a 'stiff' powerful kick, but more like a kick or tug to see if Joe is still awake.
Santiago then grabs the leg of Joe who finally starts to come around and attempts to turn him over which he does. Santiago hands shift down to Joe's ankle and and after a brief moment, he turns sideways and viciously twists Joe's ankle. Joe scratches the mat and lets out a fiendish groan while Santiago pulls with all he's got. The Ankle Lock, is locked in perfectly with Santiago hanging on tight and Joe in the middle of the ring.
-Fuzz- The SKO has been countered time after time, the Final Destination didn't put him down nor did the Corkscrew Leg Drop. Santiago now has gone deep into his arsenal and has applied a submission, the excruciatingly painful Ankle Lock! The question remains, will Joe be able to hang on and find away to break free?
-Al- I don't know if I can watch much longer! Come on Joe, you've kicked out of big move after big move, you can't tap out man. What would it look like if the 'Samoan Submission Machine' tapped out? Come on Joe!
Joe, having been locked in the ankle lock for some time now begins crawling, using all the strength he has and makes his way to the ring ropes. Just as he is about to get his hands on the bottom rope, Santiago uses his strength, which could be some of his backup or remaining, and drags Samoa Joe back to the center. Joe leans his head up and plants both his hands into the canvas and tries to lift up but Santiago only pulls the ankle harder. The Samoan Submission Machine, the definition of focus, buries his face into the canvas and places his left hand onto the canvas and leaves his right one in the air. Joe, extends all his fingers and lowers his hand a bit hovering it over the canvas. Santiago applies more pressure and yells "Tap Out Joe, Dammit Tap Out! repeatedly trying to break the spirit of the 280 pounder. The ref moves in and asks Joe does he give up and Joe shakes his head no. The Samoan Submission Machine decides not to tap out and not to give in as he balls his right hand and slams it onto the mat. He opens the fist and places it just like his left hand, into the mat and lifts his head up once again. He turns his body around and faces the corner. As Dominik shifts, the ref moves in front of Joe and giving it all he has, Joe leans up and rolls on his shoulder and using his leg strength, breaks the ankle lock and sends Dominik crashing into the corner and ultimately smashing into the referee. Dominik wobbles and falls into Joe who leans up on his knees while the ref turns his back and falls down onto his side.
The Samoan Submission Machine takes his forearm and smashes it in between Santiago's legs hitting him in the groan. Joe takes advantage after the low blow, grabbing onto Santiago's pants and pulling him down toward him. Joe falls down on his back and Santiago falls on top of him and from there, everyone in the arena knows whats next.
The Samoan Submission Machine wraps his right arm around Santiago's neck pressing his biceps and inner forearm bone hard against his neck and the other side of it. Joe folds his arm and preses the back of his elbow on Santiago's head for more pressure. but it doesn't end there. Joe then takes his legs and wraps the around his torso. With the ankles crossed, Joe tightens his grip by squeezing his thighs together, full compressing the torso. 'The Rear Naked Choke', The Coquina Clutch is expertly applied and with Santiago quickly beginning to fade, it only seems like a matter of time before Joe is crowned, New Age Champion.
-Fuzz- Oh My Lord, what a counter to the Ankle Lock! Then he went low and literally with the illegal low blow that set up one of the deadliest maneuvers in wrestling today, the Coquina Clutch! I hate to say it, but no man in GHW has escaped this submission maneuver and after taking the beating he has taken, I don't think Santiago will be the first.
-Al- No man has broken it because every superstar trapped in it has been knocked up or submitted in the first minutes of it. Grab the belt, its time to crown our new, deserving champion! Hurry up and tap out Dominik!
-Fuzz- And its been about a minute, and thats about the longest any human being has been in 'The Clutch' without tapping, or passing out! Can Dominik hang on?
Santiago sits in the choke which Joe applies much harder. The execution type instinct flying through Joe's head as he pulls on Dominik's neck much more harder and squeezes on his torso much more also. Dominik left arm lays motionless on the canvas while his right arm sits in the air like a flagpole standing tall. Joe swings Santiago's head back and fourth but Dominik keeps fighting it. The New Age champion uses his shocking strength and keeps proving his will power and character as a fighting champion who will never give up, and turns over on his side causing the same result from Joe. The champ takes his right arm and lunges for the bottom rope that suddenly sits, unattended and waiting for him. The champ keeps reaching for it while Joe keeps his violent submission locked and while the ref sits on his knees viewing everything at the best and proper angle. Joe, trying to prove that he is the new dominant force in GHW and the only force to be reckoned with, uses his strength to pull Santiago back over as the two roll over. Joe keeps rolling and turns on his other side causing Santiago's hope to grab the rope and break the hold slips away. The two wind up in the middle of the ring as the ref runs and slides over to the new position.
Dominik's right arm, his high high right arm slowly, slowly, slowly falls down to the mat as does the remaining hope of his fans that he will be able to break free. The referee looks into Santiago's eyes that barely stay open, his face turning purple and asks him one more time "Do You Quit". The referee gets no response from Santiago and with that he grabs the champs arm and raises it into the air. Joe applies it much tighter, as tight as he can and the ref drops the arm down for the first time. The official raises Santiago's arm in the air once again, and for the second time, he drops it and it smacks the canvas. With no response from the first two tests, the referee cautiously raises the arm into the air for the third time and after a moment, the official drops the arm. Dominik's hand suddenly stops in its track before it crashes to the mat and begins shaking proving to the fans that all hope is not lost. Dominik's right hand continues to shake and as the champion continues to fight.
Dominik, out of desperation, grabs onto Joe's leg and tries to pull his torso free but fails. With that failure, the lightbulb in Dominik's head shuts back as he moves from Joe's leg and grabs onto his ankle. Santiago then begins twisting the ankle and the pain is unbearable for Joe who releases Dominik's torso. Santiago slips his head out of the weak sleeper hold and lifts his body to his knees. With the ankle still in his possession, Santiago rises back to his feet and turns Joe back over onto his chest, sidesteps, and viciously twists the ankle once more.
-Fuzz- I can't believe it! He reversed the Coquina Clutch back into the Ankle Lock! I've never seen anything like this in my entire life!
-Al- Impossible! There is no way Santiago broke free from the Rear Naked Choke! No one breaks free from 'The Clutch!' Oh God it can't end like this, Joe you've gotta get out of there, and fast!
-Fuzz- Just when it looked like Joe was on the verge of victory, Santiago counters him and locks that Ankle Lock back on. And he's got him perfectly positioned in the middle of the ring. The Ankle Lock is singed in and Al, Joe has not been in these situations in a match before. Since his arrival in GHW, he has made superstars tap out and tap out and now he is once again on the receiving end on what could be the first time he has submitted in his life. It all comes down to this, the New Age Title is on the line! Is this the end for Samoa Joe? The crowd "Make Him Tap" and Santiago has the full focus and leverage to do just that! This match has been one hell of a contest and it may be very well over here. The Ankle Lock was countered, The Clutch is countered and now we are right back where we started!
Dominik takes a step back and keeps the vile Ankle Lock locked in as Joe, for the second time in the bout, leans his head up screams like a tortured animal. Santiago yelling at him to tap, the ref asking him to quit, the fans chanting tap, Joe's life seems to be crashing down before him. But the Samoan Submission Machine would have none of it as he lifts up on one knee and then to one leg. Samoa Joe begins hoping on one leg and with his quickness and emergency strength, Joe rolls once again and uses his size to throw Santiago forward. The New Age champ is forced to release Joe from the Ankle Lock once again only this time, there is no referee to cushion Santiago's impact. Dominik falls and crashes shoulder first into the ring post in the corner. Joe turns over on his chest and slowly tries to get up while Dominik continues to sit in the corner.
Joe finally gets up and begins limping backward and when Santiago leans up and turns over, Joe charges him and proving that his tanking is not yet on 'E', Joe hops onto the the middle and bottom rope and with his leg, lifts his knee and pops Santiago in his jaw. Santiago's head snaps back awkwardly from the Charging High Knee Strike as Joe steps back down to the canvas.
The Samoan Submission Machine, lifts Santiago by his legs up onto the top turnbuckle.
Joe then hooks both Santiago's legs with his arms and tucks his head in next to the Dom's before lifting the New Age Champ up, so that he is upside down with his head resting on his shoulder. From this position, the Samoa Joe jumps up and drops down to the mat, driving Dominik Santiago shoulder first down to the mat with his neck impacting both his shoulder and the mat. Santiago, extends his arms and legs and leans his head over on the canvas seemingly unconscious from the knockout blow of a Muscle Buster. The Samoan Submission Machine rolls over and hooks Santiago's leg, the ref slides down and the count begins.
1!
2!
Joe-
The New Age Champion stuns the arena and maybe even the entire world full of dedicated fans viewing the momentous occasion, Summer Ritual when he finds a way to get a shoulder up just before the referee 's hand comes down to the mat. About one one hundredth of a second Santiago finds a way to get his shoulder up preventing Samoa Joe from celebrating with his title, drinking expensive bottles of wine and mingling with ladies that will do anything if you give them the right amount of money. No, Dominik Santiago, the fighting champion, the man without fear is able to defy the odds and get a shoulder up after being leveled with the deadly Muscle Buster. The match continues as Samoa Joe sits on the mat, his eyes bulged, his jaw dropped and his fingers digging through his hair as he desperately tries to understand what just happened or rather try to figure out how he just didn't hear, "DING, DING, DING!"
Fuzz:
He got a shoulder up, he got a shoulder up! Oh my God I can't believe my eyes! There is no way he got that shoulder up!
Big Al:
Your bet your ass there is no way in hell he got a shoulder up! GHW needs instant replay or ring referees. Hell we need a red flag like the NFL, I challenge that call!
Fuzz:
It was damn close indeed Al but the ref had the best view and it was his call. He got that shoulder up and this historic match will continue.
A frustrated Joe rises to his feet and backs into the nearby turnbuckle when it hits him. He stares down at his rival or in this case his buddy whom he has been to hell and back with before he turns around and grins at the top turnbuckle padding. The Samoan Submission Machine then begins to leave us in a bit of confusion as he pets the padding and points at Santiago who turns on his side and tries to make it to his feet. Joe then grips the sides of the padding after pushing the referee whom had an idea about what was afoot. Joe unties it and before we know it, the padding is ripped off the top and heaved across the ring exposing the metal beneath it. Joe turns around and once again shoves the referee who begins screaming at him out of the way and strolls over to Santiago who leans over and grabs the ropes.
The ref runs across the ring and recovers the padding in hopes of returning it to its rightful place, the corner. As he heads back over to put the padding back on, Joe lifts Santiago to his feet and as he wobbles, he takes a step back and rubs his arm in a motion that resembles someone arming their weapon. Joe then rushes at Santiago and extends his arm out. forcing it forward and aiming it at his slightly tilted head all in one fluid motion. Then out of nowhere, Santiago ducks the lariat and wraps around Joe waist so that he gets behind him. From there the New Age Champion quickly grabs hold of Joe's wrists and places his head onto his upper back. From this position, Dominik Santiago pivots 180ยบ causing Joe to turn around and look down at the mat with the back of his head folded under the upper back of the Dom while his arms come over his shoulders. Santiago then slides his feet so that they don't keep him standing while sliding back dropping to the mat and planting Joe face first into the canvas. Joe's arms are released and they fall straight down to the canvas. Santiago leans over on his side and stares right at Joe motionless body before struggling but finally turning it over. Santiago then collapses with his back on top of him.
Fuzz:
UNPRETTIER, THE UNPRETTIER OUT OF NO WHERE! He ducked another one of those lariats and just leveled Joe with that patent unprettier and Al, that may be the deciding factor.
Dammit! Joe should have just locked him back into 'The Clutch'! I can't believe my eyes! Tell me this is a dream, *censored*, somebody pinch me so I can wake up from this nightmare!
Fuzz:
Oh this is no dream my friend, oh wait, yes! The cheering fans have gotten the attention of the ref and he sees the pinning predicament! Make the count ref, Santiago will retain the championship!
The referee turns back around and with Joe's shoulders pinned down and Santiago laying on top of him he tosses the ring padding and drops down to the canvas to make the long 3 count!
1!
2!
Just before the ref's palm comes down to hit the mat for the third and final time, the New Age Champion is pushed off and the pin is broken up. Samoa Joe, The Samoan Submission Machine shocking everyone as he gets a shoulder up. Dominik rolls over on his back and leans over onto the bottom rope before grabbing and pulling his hair. The fatigued, hurting champion killing himself trying to figure out what he must do to put down his hated rival.
Santiago pulls himself up at a very slow pace, back to his feet . He crouches down and backs up into the corner which happens to have an exposed top turnbuckle. Santiago oblivious to the face just extends his hand out and invites a shaken up Joe who slowly turns over and crawls towards the corner across from him. Joe grabs onto the bottom rope before raising himself up to the middle and then the top until he makes it to his feet. The Samoan Submission Machine shakes his head a bit and due to his woozy state he grabs onto the top rope to keep himself from falling back down. Joe moves over and buries his face in the corner and holds his head which has to be throbbing. He slowly begins turning while the New Age Champ across from him slowly begins rising a bit as he continues to encourage his opponent to turn around so he can take him out once and for all.
Joe turns around halfway from the corner and as he slowly slides his feet backward, Dominik moves a few inches out of the corner. As soon as the 280 pounder turns all away around, Santiago charges out the corner like a mad bull, his head only thinking about taking Joe out and not how the attack could go horribly wrong... which it does. The Samoan Submission moves out of the way of a leaping Santiago at the last moment causing the champ to land face first onto the middle turnbuckle.
Joe rolls over onto his chest and paces himself as he gets to his feet and re-assures himself that he is back into the drivers seat and has to take the advantage. He, just like Dominik before him, backs into the exposed corner and crouches down a bit and waits for his prey to rise to its feet. Santiago shakes his head around, his hair flying around his face as if a fan had been blowing. He grabs his head and massages his temple as he tries to cope with his new headache. The champ finally rises to his feet while still holding onto the top turnbuckle and when he finally turns his body around, the 280 pound freight train comes charging at him and just like he had dodged Santiago's bullet prior to this, the champ returns the favor as he leaps over Joe who had his head down. The Samoan Submission Machine charges shoulder first into the steel ring post.
Joe though, quickly moves from off of the ring post and pulls himself from off of the ropes. He holds his shoulder and backs up while Dominik creeps up from behind him and charges at him while grabbing at him with his arm. The Samoan Submission Machine lets out a large scream but still fights the pain as he removes his hand from his shoulder and uses it, along with his other, to push Santiago , who just misses him forward and chest first into the turnbuckle. Dominik turns over only to catch Joe who fights the pain one more time. The Samoan Submission Machine leaps up into the air sideways while bringing his leg across him cracking Santiago in his temple with his foot. The champ falls back into the turnbuckle as Joe comes falling down to the canvas.
Big Al:
C.C.S. Enzuigiri connects right to the temple and Fuzz with all the punishment Joe has received tonight I'm stumped about how he is still able to get those kicks so high!
Fuzz:
You and me both. On the contrary, I'm surprised either competitor can still move a muscle. With all the pain inflicted on them tonight, you'd think this was for the King of Deathmatch Title or something of that sort. I said it a while ago and I'll say it again, the Last Man Standing will get the pinfall and that exposed turnbuckle or some sort of weaponry will come into play to ensure that.
Joe lifts back to his feet and cockily walks over to Santiago. Who performs the 'cut throat' taunt as he slides his thumb across his throat. He then grabs the arm of Santiago and grabs onto his shoulder with the other before sidestepping backwards and pulling him out of the corner and attempting an Irish Whip but only to have it blocked by Dominik who still has gas left in the tank. The New Age champ, with his resilience on display the whole entire night, swing his body in front and pulls Joe toward him causing him to fly across the ring from the Irish Whip and crash chest and head first into the exposed turnbuckled corner.
The sickening feeling and impact from the unforgiving metal of the exposed turnbuckle causes Joe to immediately stumble out of the corner and the unsuspecting challenger steps into a ready and waiting Santiago who lifts up and leaps into the air. With his back turned to him, Santiago reaches over and grabs Joe around his neck before falling down driving Joe's head into the mat below. Joe once again lies motionless on the canvas, the cheering fans chanting "SKO!" further instilling enough strength and adrenaline in him to turn him over and drape his arm over his shoulder. With the lightning strike of an SKO looking to have slain the dragon, the entire arena once again rise to their feet and wait for the ref to drop down and make the count that feels like forever.
Fuzz:
SKO! SKO! SKO! There it is Oh My God the SKO! The first one was parried, the second one was avoided and even the third one was counted! It took 4 SKO attempts for one to work and this one comes after Joe felt the terror of his own creation. The champ nails Samoa Joe right after he collided with that exposed turnbuckle. That combination may be enough to put down the challenger tonight here in Chicago!
Big Al:
This is terrible! Oh Lord please not this way.
The referee drops down to the canvas and as his hand begins to come down the fans count the numbers along with him.
1!
2!
Joe moves back in for the attack but Santiago, whom has gained more knowledge since their last bout, waits for him to move in only to move out of the way. The charging Samoan, bounces off the ropes face first only to back up into a forearm to the back. Santiago, not letting up, drives his knee into Joe's gut causing the Samoan to wince as his breath had been temporarily ripped from him. Joe backs up into the ropes again and walks along them trying to get away from Santiago. The New Age champ doesn't give him the distance he desired as he chases him down and pelts him with repeated punches and elbows to the back of the neck. The flurry causes Joe to back into the nearby corner and as he pleads for Santiago to let up, he is only met with a uncaring fist of furry type shot that cracks him in the jaw. As his head cocks back from the nasty shot, Santiago only damages him more as he cocks his hand back before sending it forward, smacking Joe across his bare chest. The backhand chop brings Joe's head back as he begins coughing.
Santiago changes up the attack sequence as he lifts his leg and drives his sole into Joe's knee. He follows up with another stiff kick only this time the foot finds Joe's gut. Having seen enough, the referee moves in and tries to pull Santiago away but to no avail. Dominik just keeps on the assault as he grabs on the ropes and drives his shoulder blade into Joe's gut only taking his breath from him more with the shoulder thrust. The ref, taking a different approach, begins his count.
1!
2!
3!
4!
The count is enough to draw Santiago, who had just leveled Joe with another nasty hook, away. The Samoan Submission Machine collapses out of the corner onto the canvas knees first. He falls on the ropes and begins gasping for air while Santiago stands triumphant in the middle of the ring, his fists in the air grabbing the support and attention of the crowd.
Fuzz:
Al, I have never seen Samoa Joe dominated like this since he's been here in GHW! As soon as that bell rung it's like that light bulb in Santiago's head just went.... DING!
Big Al:
Me neither! This is a side of Santiago we have never seen. Him taking the fight to the opponent! Ah, maybe if he did this more often I wouldn't despise of him so much!
Santiago finishes his minute of posing as he gazes down at Joe, still trying to regain his breaths. Santiago rushes over to Joe and grabs him by his arm and head and lifts him up off the ropes and drags him to the center of the ring. Santiago then releases Joe's arm and grabs him in between his legs and reaches for his back. Santiago then lifts the Samoan Submission Machine upside down before dumping him backfirst on the canvas with a bodyslam that shakes the ring and leaves the arena stunned in awe.
Joe lifts his head off the mat and reaches and grabs his lower back. Santiago, taunts Joe and poses some more gaining more appreciation from the fans that continue to rally behind him.
Dominik snatches Joe by his head and lifts him up to his feet. Dom then shoves the groggy, tired, hurt Samoan into the corner. He gets the fans back into the match as he unleashes a flurry of backhand chops that turn Joe's chest red. The fans begin chanting "WOO!" which only brings a bigger smile on Santiago's face. As Joe stands breathless in the corner, Santiago backs up and crouches down to one knee. The New Age champ, looking to inflict some more damage on his rival, suddenly leans up and charges at the corner. The Samoan Submission Machine, finally showing some signs of life, protects himself as he doges the attack by moving out of the corner. Santiago, finding nobody home, staggers out of the corner in which he just hugged with his face and chest. He turns around to find a 280 pound Samoan Submission Machine rushing at him and with quick thinking, drops down to the canvas causing Joe to hurdle over him and rebound off the next set of ropes. Dominik, now looking to take advantage, leaps up into the air and brings his knees to his chest before fully extending his legs out driving them into the face of Joe. The clever standing drop kick, causes Joe to backpedal uncontrollably into the ropes where he falls through the middle and top. The 280 pound freight train lands head first on the concrete floor.
Santiago surveys the arena, the fans if not before, now fully behind their champ. Dominik leans over on the corner top turnbuckle and stares at Joe who rests on the guard rail. Dominik, looking to take the attack, Joe's punishment, Joe's undeniable torture to new heights, slowly begins scaling the top rope. When he reaches the top, he turns his body around so that his back faces a unsuspecting Submission Machine. Dominik, looking back at Joe, waits for the right moment, the right second and when he gets it he takes full advantage. The New Age champion, gracefully launches himself into the air when Joe turns around and lands on him with his body. The top rope moonsault seemingly takes Joe out as the fans show their appreciation, rising to their feet chanting the name of their hero.
Big Al:
Good God! Top Rope Moonsault onto Samoa Joe! Santiago takes the risk and it pays off! Lord we've got to see that again!
The screen splits as the replay segment comes on. It shows Santiago leaping like a Olympic Diver, off the top rope and falling onto Joe. The last part, is shown in slo-mo making the scene only that much sweeter.
Fuzz:
That was one hell of a Moonsault right there Al! Santiago is pulling out all the stops early and thats they way you've got to do it.
Big Al:
Santiago is making it hard to hate him right now because this is a very good strategy. Hell, never thought something this clever could come from someone so feeble minded. Nonetheless, we both know Dominik will screw this up and let my boy Joe back into this fight. For Dominik's sake though, he just better hope the screw up isn't so costly.
Dominik rolls off of Joe who still lays back first on the concrete floor of the arena. The New Age champ takes a breather as the flurry seems to have taken away a lot of his stamina. Dominik makes it to a vertical base and begins to pace himself as the ref starts his ten count. When the referee reaches the count of 7, Dom grips Joe by his hair and wrestling tights, and by 9, tosses him back into the ring followed by himself.
Santiago rolls over on his chest and rests his face on the mat as Joe turns over on his side and reaches for the ropes. Dominik, not going for the pin, shows everyone that he has something else planned for Joe who finds the middle rope and begins using it to rise to his feet. Dominik stalks his prey, his eyes bulging, his tongue sticking out as he looks ready to strike like the cold hearted viper. Joe manages to make it to his feet but still collapses onto the top rope, as he looks exhausted. The Samoan Submission Machine, grabs his lower back once again only before grabbing his head which caught the worse of the moonsault. When Joe turns around, Santiago rises from one knee and to his feet very quickly almost like we wasn't crouching in the first place. He then lunges at Joe and wraps his arm around Joe's head pressing on his face with his forearm. Santiago then turns his back to Joe and he begins running but Joe, who either had the maneuver scouted or was playing possum, uses his strength to push Santiago off of him using his momentum to send him crashing into the ropes.
When Dominik rebounds Joe capitalizes by placing one arm between Dom's legs, before reaching over his shoulder with the other arm. Joe then spins Santiago over onto their back. Joe, with his chest pressing against the champs, then simply falls to the canvas dropping his full 280 pounds on top of Santiago who slams down on the canvas back first. The scoop powerslam buys Joe enough time to fully recuperate as he rolls off of Santiago who lets out the first of many screams to come.
Fuzz:
Good God! Joe just nailed Santiago with that Scoop Powerslam! And if you think it hurts before, imagine the agony you'll feel when a nearly 300 pound behemoth does it. Dominik went for the SKO early and that may have indeed cost him.
Big Al:
Just what I was talking about! Dominik should have worn Joe down some more but instead he goes for an SKO which I knew would backfire. That's just the opening Joe needs to get back into this bout!
Dom-
Joe rolls off of Santiago and onto his chest before leaning his head up off the canvas. His face, once showing his frustration and agony he once was feeling in the early goings is replaced with the hateful cold stare as he rises to his knees. He purposely rises to his feet at a slow pace before leaning over on the top rope and patiently waiting for young Dominik Santiago to lift his head up off the canvas and after he does, Joe takes a breather and makes his way over to Dominik. Joe grinds his teeth and squints his eyes as he snatches Dominik's hair and further helps him off the canvas, yanking and pulling his hair until Dominik reaches his knees. Joe then slips his head under Dominik's arm and grabs both his legs before charging, with full steam, at the corner driving Dominik's backside hard into the turnbuckle padding.
Joe then releases him, and throws his arms over the top ropes leaving him chest and face open for business. Joe, arrogant yet cocky, places his hand under Santiago's chin before quickly removing it and bringing it back so that it slaps Santiago across he face. Before Dominik can recover from the disrespectful gesture, Joe quickly unloads on his with a series of chops and punches across the head and chest. When Joe ceases with his punishing flurry, he grabs Santiago by the wrist and after slipping under it while twisting it, whips Santiago across the ring to the corner across. Joe then charges at the corner but because he took too long, Santiago moves out of the way causing Joe to crash chest first into the ropes.
Santiago waits patiently on the ropes for Joe to turn around and when he does, he leans back for extra momentum and rushes Joe while extending his arm out. Joe ducks his head down and avoids the clothesline while wrapping around Santiago's waist and when he gets behind him all the way, lifts him up into the air over his chest while falling and bridging back slamming Santiago's head and neck into the canvas with the devastating yet out of nowhere German Suplex. Joe though, keeps his wrists locked around Dom's waist and rolls over causing Dominik to roll over on his chest before lifting he and himself back to their feet. Joe then transitions his hands from around the waist to underneath his armpits before locking his hands around his neck. Now with the full nelson 100% locked, Joe uses his strength and lifts Santiago into the air while once again leaning and bridging his back driving Santiago's head, neck, and shoulders once again into the canvas. Joe once again turns over after the successful Dragon Suplex, and as he turns Dominik over on his chest again, he moves his hands back down to around his waist as they make it slowly back to their feet. Joe the grabs Dom's wrists and crosses his arms arms under his chin. Joe then once again and for the final time, leans and bridges back using the straight-jacket hold as extra leverage lifting Dominik over his chest and driving his head and neck once more into the canvas. Joe keeps the arms locked and with Dom's shoulders pin down from the X-Plex, the ref slides down theatrically and makes what actually is the first count of the night.
-Fuzz- Good God! Joe German Suplexes Santiago, then holds on for the Full Nelson Suplex, then holds on for an X-Plex. Unbelievable!
-Al- And he has the strength and energy left to hold on for the pin. We may have our new, deserving, New Age Champ right here!
1!
2!
Just before the ref's hand hits the canvas for the third time and can give Joe his first championship, Santiago uses his will and strength to break free of the hold and get a shoulder up which ultimately maneuvers him out of the pinning predicament.
Joe rolls over onto his knees before balling his fists and hammering down on the canvas as his frustration begins to mount. The 280 pounder then grabs Dom's head with both hands and as he makes it back to his feet, slowly lifts the hurting body of Santiago back up. Joe then turns his back to Santiago before reaching and grabbing around his head and pressing on it with his forearms. As he moves to the side, he begins kneeling only to pull Santiago forward, flipping him over his shoulder and onto the mat.
From there the Samoan Submission Machine bends down while turning his hand over and striking the sitting yet unsuspecting New Age Champion over his bare back with the backhand chop only to be followed by a quick stiff kick to the chest that immediately causes Santiago to fall on his back. And with the wind temporarily knocked out of Dominik, Joe runs and bounces off the ropes before leaping into the air and dropping his knee straight across the throat of Santiago. The knee drop induces spit from Dominik's mouth and as his eyes begin to cringe, he rolls away and onto his stomach while Joe slowly stands back up, triumphant and satisfied by the quick, deadly combo he just unleashed.
-Al- Huge Snapmare, chop to the chest, aww the stiff kick! Then he drops that knee right on top of his throat! Good grief!
-Fuzz- And thats not just a regular knee drop no sir! It hurts when anybody does it but imagine a big fella, bouncing off the ropes for added momentum and then drops his full 280 pounds onto your throat! That devastating right there!
-Al- Thats why I'm so big on Samoa Joe! He comes off when he makes that entrance to the ring, as a mindless nearly 300 pound, sluggish, nonathletic fatso but he is so much more. He's got rare speed for his frame, he's quick, very athletic. The only difference between him a Cruiserweight is because he's a freakishly strong 280 pounder.
-Fuzz- There's no doubt about that in my mind. It's a whole different ball game when he's leaping over top ropes and spinning and twirling in the air. A rare specimen is Samoa Joe. I'd like him more if he was more respectful and not a self-centered bastard but I guess you can't always get what you want, eh!
Joe licks his lips and rubs his chin before once getting on the attack. He bends down and grabs the hair of Santiago, who was trying to get his jaw repositioned on his face and yanks him back to his feet. Santiago bends over and lifts his head down only to receive another breath draining back chop across the bare chest that causes him to stagger into the corner. The chocking New Age Champion tries to suck it up and regain control in the bout as he lifts his leg up and drives it into the sternum of a relentless Samoan Submission Machine. Dominik follows up from the kick with a series of his own chops which come after a stiff hook to the nose that send Joe backpedaling. Santiago, feeling a new found energy boost, gives Joe another stiff punch that keeps him reeling. Santiago grabs Joe's head and slips his elbow under and cuts it up clocking Joe in the chin with the European Uppercut that gets him wobbly. Santiago then looks to take him off his feet as he leaps into the air and extends his legs out forward, planting them into the chest of the 280 pound freight train. The Standing Dropkick doesn't knock Joe off his feet but rather sends him backfirst into the nearby corner.
As Joe stands, attempting to recuperate in the corner, Santiago kneels down before charging at him. Santiago leaps into the air only to be caught by Joe, who catches him with one arm that under one of Dom's. Joe then falls down to his knees slamming Santiago on top of his head and neck with his patent, ST JOE!
Joe, doesn't take another breather as he jumps right back onto the horse. The Samoan Submission Machine leans on the ropes and sizes up Santiago who rolls on his back into the center of the ring. From there, Joe bounces off the ropes before leaping into the air as if he is attempting a leg drop, only to drop his elbow straight into the heart of the New Age Champion.
-Fuzz- Oh My God! Senton! First he dropped him onto his head with the counter, the ST Joe, then he once again dropped his 280 pounds straight on top of Santiago.
The ref slides down on top the mat after Joe rolls back onto Santiago and hooks his leg.
1!
2!
Once again, just before the ref can get his hand down for the third time, Santiago is able to get his shoulder up only this time just barely.
Joe once again hits the canvas as his frustration continues to build. The unhappy Samoan Submission Machine begins scratching his head and grunting. He gives the ref a dirty look but the referee only replies to him with a simple two finger motion signaling that he only got 2 counts. Joe takes a moment to rest and think about what he must do to put down the champ while the champ himself, slowly, slowly crawls to the corner where he rests his head seemingly no longer knowing where he is.
Joe turns, and burns a hole in Santiago's head with his cold hearted, grimacing stare. The 280 pounder rises back to the canvas and rushes to Santiago's corner and places the sole of his foot straight onto Santiago's young, handsome, attractive face before he begins to crack a sadistic smile. Joe then ruthlessly rubs the sole of his foot across Santiago's face with the facewash that proves his lack of respect for the champion. The ref rushes in after about the 4th go around and pulls Joe out of the corner and yells at him trying to speak some sense into him while attempting to control him. Joe only backs up a bit before shoving the ref out of the way as he charges at the corner to a groggy New Age Champ who looks completely battered and bruised.
Joe extends his leg out and looks to knock out Santiago's pearl white teeth but only to get caught in the middle rope due to Santiago rolling out of the way showing he still has life and a light bulb shining bright in his head. The fans begin to rally Santiago uses slides over to the ropes and slowly uses the middle and top rope to get to his feet. By then, the overanxious rhino, Samoa Joe, is able to untangle himself and refocus on the task at hand. He turns around to Santiago who is still a bit tipsy and extends his arm out. He swings it at Santiago in an attempt to behead the champ only to have it ducked. As Joe turns his head around and body around, Santiago lifts his leg high into the air while twisting his hips and turning himself side on to The Samoan Submission Machine catching Joe straight across the mouth with his foot. Santiago falls down onto his side while Joe tips over like a big oak tree and falls to the canvas.
-Fuzz- Shuffle Side Kick! What a kick to the jaw! He ducked that clothesline and took advantage with that quick, deadly kick! Whether it was instinct or desperation, Santiago has bought himself the time he needs to get some air into his lungs as well as regain his energy!
-Al- Yeah, I as hoping for Joe to take off Santiago's head but he ducked it and even after taking this long, tasty beating, he managed to get his leg high enough to drop Joe with that superkick! Now the champ has to pray to God he can regain control of this bout!
The ref begins his ten count as both superstars lye on the canvas, both taking deep breaths and both trying to get up. The support of their fans only helps them further as half of the arena chant "Lets GO JOE!" and the other chant "Lets GO DOM!" The cheer leading of the fans eventually get both of them up at about the 8 count, only Joe beats Santiago to the punch, literally. The Samoan Submission Machine strikes first, hitting Santiago with a mean right cross. Dominik backs up a bit but comes back with a punch of his own, only to have Joe comeback with his own. The first fight begins and after Santiago has a right hook parried, Joe retakes control as he lifts his leg into the air before driving it with enormous force into Dom's gut causing him to leap into the air for a brief moment.
Joe follows up with the monster kick by clocking Santiago with a hard right and taking his stamina and breath away with a nasty backhand chop that sends the champ reeling and collapsing onto the ropes. Joe then grabs Santiago with both his hands while cocking his head back before snapping it forward and cracking Santiago across his forehead with his own. The head butt causes Santiago's knees to jelly up and as he looks like a strong gust could tip him over. With that, Joe rushes to the ropes and bounces off, charging at Santiago with high speed. Santiago exploits Joe's momentum by slipping down and grabbing onto the top rope at the last moment causing Joe to trip and fall over the ropes and land on his head on the outside.
Dominik rolls over after a minute of resting and thinking of how he just dodged would could have been a knockout blow of a bullet. The champ slowly rises to his feet and grabs his forehead as he searches for blood. He then stretches his neck and as Joe slowly rises to his feet, he thinks about the success of his last high risk maneuver. After a few seconds, he comes to a consensus and rushes and bounces off the ropes and when Joe lifts his head up. Dominik jumps onto the top rope before gracefully launching himself off while backflipping in mid air. The New Age Champ comes down like a falling star right onto Joe's head causing the Samoan Submission Machine to crumble and fall to the concrete like a bridge with a poor stability. The fans jump out of their seats and show their appreciation with their signature "Holy Shit!" chants. The scene feels like de-ja-vu- of the early moments of the bout with both men laid out on the concrete floor and looking up at the ceiling.
THE "The HOLY SHIT chants continue to flood the arena before the , GH-DUB chants take over."
-Fuzz- Oh My Goodness! Al, Did you, Al, did you see that, did you just see that? He spring boarded off the top rope and hit a Shotting Star Press in mid *censored* air! That was unrealistic! How he is still able to do that after taking all that punishment proves he is a true definition of a fighting champion! Kudos Dominik!
-Al- I hate Santiago 100% of the time but I will have to side with you on this one. Joe almost took him out and Dominik cleverly pulled the ropes down. He then took another huge risk and it was a graceful Spring Board Shooting Star Press that paid off. Holy Shit indeed Colin!
Dominik makes it to his feet at the ref's 6 count and grabs Joe tights before slowly rolling him back into the ring. He struggles to get in himself but finally does at the 9 count. He shoves Joe further, until he rolls over on his back in the center before draping his shoulder over on top of his chest. The ref slides over into perfect position and makes the count that the Santiago fans hope is the nail in the coffin and the Joe fans pray isn't the end.
1!
2!
Joe-
At the last moment, Joe rolls his shoulder over breaking up the cover to a stunning dismay. Santiago buries his face into the canvas before scratching his hair as if it is inhabited by lice. The scratching then moves from his scalp to the canvas itself, the frustration now building in the champion while Joe places his hand on his chest, his lungs feeling like they have collapsed.
The peeved, frustrated New Age Champion slowly rises to his feet and leans over on the ring rope not missing a single blink as he continues to stare down the groggy, exhausted Samoan Submission Machine. Dominik then quickly moves over to Joe and grips him by his head and slowly lifts him up from behind. As Joe reaches his toes, Santiago places his arm around his neck and bends him over his own back before dropping down to one knee on the canvas folding Joe up over him and hurting his spine in the process with the modified back breaker. Joe falls to the canvas, planting his face in the puddle of sweat on the canvas while rubbing and tending to his lower back. The New Age champ, eyes looking like he has been possessed, once again slowly rises to his feet.
The sluggish Samoan, with drool hanging from his bottom lip, slowly turns on his side not noticing Santiago slowly creeping up behind him. Joe grabs the bottom rope and pulls it to himself like a stranded survivor reaching for a helicopter rope. As Joe begins to pick himself back up Santiago drops down to one knee and extends his arm out before pleading to Joe with his hand to turn around. Dominik begins shaking his head as if he is going insane, his hair flying around his face getting into his mouth and his eyes. The New Age champ slowly rises as Joe makes it to his feet holding his ribs looking down at the canvas while hunched over. Joe finally lifts his head up reaches for the top rope one more time before turning around to the venomous cobra lurking behind him.
Santiago leaps up onto his toes while lunging at Joe head and successfully wrapping his arm around his neck. Santiago turns but only to have his 'SKO' maneuver countered once again as Joe uses his strength to push Santiago off. The shove sends Dominik moving forward but slightly off balance and as he turns around he sees Joe rushing at him with his arm shortly extended out. Dominik ducks under the arm and takes his own and throws it across Joe's chest and holds his shoulder. Santiago then sweeps Joe's leg while still bringing one forward and crouching forcing Joe's injured lower back onto his knee countering the lariat into an STO backbreaker. Santiago though, holds onto Joe and lifts him off his knee and back up onto his feet before leaping backwards, planting the Samoan Submission Machine face first into the canvas with the Reverse STO.
Big Al:
There it is the Final Destination and it couldn't have come at a better time for Santiago!
Fuzz:
And a worse time for Samoan Joe. He countered the SKO once again and just when you thought he would regain the upper hand he was just leveled and like you said, out of nowhere with the Final Destination. This one has to be in the books Al!
Santiago rolls Joe over before turning over on his back and laying down on Joe who's shoulders are pinned down and eyes barely open. The two sweaty, tired superstars wait as the referee begins running over. The thought of a successful title defense only moments away flying around like a frisbee in Santiago head and the thought of losing after all he had worked for flying around in Joe's head. The fans, whom were already on their feet, anxiously anticipate a kick out or a three count.
The referee slides down, his body halfway out of the ring and after raising his right hand into the air, makes the count.
1!
2!
The ref then stops his count just before smacking the canvas for the third time. The loud arena stand, some cheering as they wonder if that was just it. A few groups of Samoa Joe fans turn their heads in shame and lower their posters while the Santiago fans jump up for joy. The camera then zooms in at the ref once again who then points at Samoa Joe's leg. The arena then goes wild as Joe's foot hangs on the bottom rope. The ref shakes his head 'no' while motioning it with his arms as Dominik Santiago slides off of Joe's torso and once again, buries his head into the canvas.
Fuzz:
I, I, Al I can't believe it. He got a foot on the ropes. What ring presence! I still can't believe it thought! I thought this one was over for sure after that devastating blow! What a match!
Big Al:
I'm as stunned as you are! There was no way in hell Joe was gonna kick out of that so I guess you could say it was lucky that the ring ropes happened to be in reach. Boy was that a scare there for those Joe fans and a heartbreak for the Santiago fans.
Fuzz:
Oh this match has been a roller coaster from the get-go and we are still on the edge of our seats. I don't think any fan can afford to leave the arena right now because I have a strong feeling the end may be near.
Santiago turns over once again, his face turning red, his mouth poked out and his fists clinched. The veins begin to pop out Santiago's arms and shoulders as he unballs one fist and grabs Joe's hair. The New Age champion, pulls Joe to his feet, and the sluggish barely able to stand Samoan Submission Machine finds himself lifted off his feet, carried, and shoved back first into the corner. Dominik lifts the Samoan Submission Machine once again and props him onto the top turnbuckle. Santiago begins climbing up himself and as everyone is worried and or anticipated what Santiago has in store for Joe.
Dominik begins pelting Joe in between his eyes with full fisted shots that almost cause Joe to lean back and fall out of the ring. Santiago then takes Joe's arm and throws it over his shoulder before grabbing onto Joe's tights. As Dominik tries to lift Joe up, Joe instinctively grabs onto the top rope preventing Santiago from lifting him into the air. Dominik then throws Joe arm back to his side and once again starts nailing him with shot after shot. Dominik goes for a hook but Joe grabs it and hits him with a hard shot to the ribs that cause Santiago to stop in his tracks. From there Joe grabs onto Dominik's head and cracks him in it with his own almost causing him to tip over with the headbutt. As Santiago stands wobbly, Joe grabs him by his pants and pulls him over to him before grabbing and pulling the Dom's arm over his farthest shoulder and lifting his body over his shoulders. Joe holds onto Santiago's and stands up on the top rope.
Santiago looks down at the canvas, a few feet below him and begins to regret his decision to goto the top with the 280 pounder. Joe then begins leaning over at the top before falling down off the top and onto the canvas driving Santiago skull into the mat. Dominik rolls over onto his back, his head jerking awkwardly on the mat from the Death Valley Driver. Joe, on his back himself, slowly turns over and drapes his arm over Santiago chest attempting the pin.
Big Al:
Good God Almighty! That was a insane maneuver! Death Valley Driver from the top rope! Oh this one is over Fuzz, there is no way Santiago kicks out of that one, no one in hell! New, New-Age-Champion right here! Make the damn count ref, make the count!
Fuzz:
Joe softened him up and shifted his brain with that one, nasty headbutt and then he just dumped him on it. One D.V.D. is dangerous but from the top, thats almost unheard of! Dominik can't have enough left in the tank! Here comes the ref, this one may be over right here Al!
Big Al:
No, not can't Colin, this one is over!
The ref slides over and raises his arm into the air before making the count.
1!
2!
Just like Joe had done minutes prior, Santiago shocks the arena and sends it into a frenzy in the process as he senses the bottom rope near him and gets a foot on it. The ref stops his count just in time and screams to Joe, "You Got TWO, TWO JOE, TWO!." The Samoan Submission Machine, just like Dom, rolls off of his opponent and buries his face into the mat. The frustration already had taken over Joe's mind as he begins beating the canvas in with heavy shots.
After a minute of beating himself up, Joe takes a deep breath and cracks his knuckles. He wipes some sweat out of his eyes and bends over and grabs Santiago's head. The camera pans into Dominik who's lip has been busted. The blood drips from Dom's lips as he finds himself standing and leaning in the corner. Joe places his arms over the ropes and lifts him up onto the top turnbuckle as he had been himself. With the tables turned, Joe looks to go for the knockout blow as he returns previous favors to Santiago via full fisted punches.
Dominik finds himself in noman's land and Joe tries to take advantage as he tries to tucks Santiago's head on his shoulder. As Joe reaches for Santiago legs, the maneuver is interrupted by desperation biting from the champ. His head finds itself sliding from under Joe's grasp as he takes shots at Joe's gut. Santiago opens him up with stiff backhand chops that redden Joe's chest and almost knock him off the top. The job gets done though, when Santiago smacks Joe in his forehead with his own causing the 280 pounder to tip over and fall on his back to the canvas. The ring shakes but Santiago finds a way to stay on the top.
Santiago slowly stands up, and catches himself as he seems to almost fall over. With the fans chanting "Santiago!", Dominik then leaps from the top rope and rotates simultaneously at a 360 degree angle. Dominik's leg comes crashing down across the chest of the 280 pound behemoth beneath him. The New Age champ, out of desperation or last resort, connects with the Corkscrew Leg Drop.
Fuzz:
Holy Shit! Corkscrew Leg Drop! Corkscrew Leg Drop! I don't believe my eyes! He countered the Muscle Buster, the devastating Muscle Buster and nailed Joe with another high risk maneuver! 3 for 3, pin em kid, retain your championship!
Santiago crawls over onto Joe and drapes his arm over his chest while burying his head in it at the same time.
The ref slides over and makes the count!
1!
2!
Dom-
The ecstatic arena that had already been in a complete frenzy turns it up a notch as the building roofs comes off due to the new state of pandemonium caused by Samoa Joe getting his shoulder up as the ref was a second away from hitting the canvas for the third time. The superstars get the ovation from the fans with the "G-H-Dub" chants flooding being heard from every corner and every part of the arena. Santiago, the bloody, broken, battered, tired, frustrated, New Age Champion slowly falls off of Samoa Joe who is motionless on the mat. Santiago crawls on his back to the corner and he just sits there and shakes his head back and fourth in disbelief. The New Age champion, slowly makes it to his feet, his pain becoming an impediment , holds his back as he bends over and kicks Joe in his side. The kick is not a 'stiff' powerful kick, but more like a kick or tug to see if Joe is still awake.
Santiago then grabs the leg of Joe who finally starts to come around and attempts to turn him over which he does. Santiago hands shift down to Joe's ankle and and after a brief moment, he turns sideways and viciously twists Joe's ankle. Joe scratches the mat and lets out a fiendish groan while Santiago pulls with all he's got. The Ankle Lock, is locked in perfectly with Santiago hanging on tight and Joe in the middle of the ring.
-Fuzz- The SKO has been countered time after time, the Final Destination didn't put him down nor did the Corkscrew Leg Drop. Santiago now has gone deep into his arsenal and has applied a submission, the excruciatingly painful Ankle Lock! The question remains, will Joe be able to hang on and find away to break free?
-Al- I don't know if I can watch much longer! Come on Joe, you've kicked out of big move after big move, you can't tap out man. What would it look like if the 'Samoan Submission Machine' tapped out? Come on Joe!
Joe, having been locked in the ankle lock for some time now begins crawling, using all the strength he has and makes his way to the ring ropes. Just as he is about to get his hands on the bottom rope, Santiago uses his strength, which could be some of his backup or remaining, and drags Samoa Joe back to the center. Joe leans his head up and plants both his hands into the canvas and tries to lift up but Santiago only pulls the ankle harder. The Samoan Submission Machine, the definition of focus, buries his face into the canvas and places his left hand onto the canvas and leaves his right one in the air. Joe, extends all his fingers and lowers his hand a bit hovering it over the canvas. Santiago applies more pressure and yells "Tap Out Joe, Dammit Tap Out! repeatedly trying to break the spirit of the 280 pounder. The ref moves in and asks Joe does he give up and Joe shakes his head no. The Samoan Submission Machine decides not to tap out and not to give in as he balls his right hand and slams it onto the mat. He opens the fist and places it just like his left hand, into the mat and lifts his head up once again. He turns his body around and faces the corner. As Dominik shifts, the ref moves in front of Joe and giving it all he has, Joe leans up and rolls on his shoulder and using his leg strength, breaks the ankle lock and sends Dominik crashing into the corner and ultimately smashing into the referee. Dominik wobbles and falls into Joe who leans up on his knees while the ref turns his back and falls down onto his side.
The Samoan Submission Machine takes his forearm and smashes it in between Santiago's legs hitting him in the groan. Joe takes advantage after the low blow, grabbing onto Santiago's pants and pulling him down toward him. Joe falls down on his back and Santiago falls on top of him and from there, everyone in the arena knows whats next.
The Samoan Submission Machine wraps his right arm around Santiago's neck pressing his biceps and inner forearm bone hard against his neck and the other side of it. Joe folds his arm and preses the back of his elbow on Santiago's head for more pressure. but it doesn't end there. Joe then takes his legs and wraps the around his torso. With the ankles crossed, Joe tightens his grip by squeezing his thighs together, full compressing the torso. 'The Rear Naked Choke', The Coquina Clutch is expertly applied and with Santiago quickly beginning to fade, it only seems like a matter of time before Joe is crowned, New Age Champion.
-Fuzz- Oh My Lord, what a counter to the Ankle Lock! Then he went low and literally with the illegal low blow that set up one of the deadliest maneuvers in wrestling today, the Coquina Clutch! I hate to say it, but no man in GHW has escaped this submission maneuver and after taking the beating he has taken, I don't think Santiago will be the first.
-Al- No man has broken it because every superstar trapped in it has been knocked up or submitted in the first minutes of it. Grab the belt, its time to crown our new, deserving champion! Hurry up and tap out Dominik!
-Fuzz- And its been about a minute, and thats about the longest any human being has been in 'The Clutch' without tapping, or passing out! Can Dominik hang on?
Santiago sits in the choke which Joe applies much harder. The execution type instinct flying through Joe's head as he pulls on Dominik's neck much more harder and squeezes on his torso much more also. Dominik left arm lays motionless on the canvas while his right arm sits in the air like a flagpole standing tall. Joe swings Santiago's head back and fourth but Dominik keeps fighting it. The New Age champion uses his shocking strength and keeps proving his will power and character as a fighting champion who will never give up, and turns over on his side causing the same result from Joe. The champ takes his right arm and lunges for the bottom rope that suddenly sits, unattended and waiting for him. The champ keeps reaching for it while Joe keeps his violent submission locked and while the ref sits on his knees viewing everything at the best and proper angle. Joe, trying to prove that he is the new dominant force in GHW and the only force to be reckoned with, uses his strength to pull Santiago back over as the two roll over. Joe keeps rolling and turns on his other side causing Santiago's hope to grab the rope and break the hold slips away. The two wind up in the middle of the ring as the ref runs and slides over to the new position.
Dominik's right arm, his high high right arm slowly, slowly, slowly falls down to the mat as does the remaining hope of his fans that he will be able to break free. The referee looks into Santiago's eyes that barely stay open, his face turning purple and asks him one more time "Do You Quit". The referee gets no response from Santiago and with that he grabs the champs arm and raises it into the air. Joe applies it much tighter, as tight as he can and the ref drops the arm down for the first time. The official raises Santiago's arm in the air once again, and for the second time, he drops it and it smacks the canvas. With no response from the first two tests, the referee cautiously raises the arm into the air for the third time and after a moment, the official drops the arm. Dominik's hand suddenly stops in its track before it crashes to the mat and begins shaking proving to the fans that all hope is not lost. Dominik's right hand continues to shake and as the champion continues to fight.
Dominik, out of desperation, grabs onto Joe's leg and tries to pull his torso free but fails. With that failure, the lightbulb in Dominik's head shuts back as he moves from Joe's leg and grabs onto his ankle. Santiago then begins twisting the ankle and the pain is unbearable for Joe who releases Dominik's torso. Santiago slips his head out of the weak sleeper hold and lifts his body to his knees. With the ankle still in his possession, Santiago rises back to his feet and turns Joe back over onto his chest, sidesteps, and viciously twists the ankle once more.
-Fuzz- I can't believe it! He reversed the Coquina Clutch back into the Ankle Lock! I've never seen anything like this in my entire life!
-Al- Impossible! There is no way Santiago broke free from the Rear Naked Choke! No one breaks free from 'The Clutch!' Oh God it can't end like this, Joe you've gotta get out of there, and fast!
-Fuzz- Just when it looked like Joe was on the verge of victory, Santiago counters him and locks that Ankle Lock back on. And he's got him perfectly positioned in the middle of the ring. The Ankle Lock is singed in and Al, Joe has not been in these situations in a match before. Since his arrival in GHW, he has made superstars tap out and tap out and now he is once again on the receiving end on what could be the first time he has submitted in his life. It all comes down to this, the New Age Title is on the line! Is this the end for Samoa Joe? The crowd "Make Him Tap" and Santiago has the full focus and leverage to do just that! This match has been one hell of a contest and it may be very well over here. The Ankle Lock was countered, The Clutch is countered and now we are right back where we started!
Dominik takes a step back and keeps the vile Ankle Lock locked in as Joe, for the second time in the bout, leans his head up screams like a tortured animal. Santiago yelling at him to tap, the ref asking him to quit, the fans chanting tap, Joe's life seems to be crashing down before him. But the Samoan Submission Machine would have none of it as he lifts up on one knee and then to one leg. Samoa Joe begins hoping on one leg and with his quickness and emergency strength, Joe rolls once again and uses his size to throw Santiago forward. The New Age champ is forced to release Joe from the Ankle Lock once again only this time, there is no referee to cushion Santiago's impact. Dominik falls and crashes shoulder first into the ring post in the corner. Joe turns over on his chest and slowly tries to get up while Dominik continues to sit in the corner.
Joe finally gets up and begins limping backward and when Santiago leans up and turns over, Joe charges him and proving that his tanking is not yet on 'E', Joe hops onto the the middle and bottom rope and with his leg, lifts his knee and pops Santiago in his jaw. Santiago's head snaps back awkwardly from the Charging High Knee Strike as Joe steps back down to the canvas.
The Samoan Submission Machine, lifts Santiago by his legs up onto the top turnbuckle.
Joe then hooks both Santiago's legs with his arms and tucks his head in next to the Dom's before lifting the New Age Champ up, so that he is upside down with his head resting on his shoulder. From this position, the Samoa Joe jumps up and drops down to the mat, driving Dominik Santiago shoulder first down to the mat with his neck impacting both his shoulder and the mat. Santiago, extends his arms and legs and leans his head over on the canvas seemingly unconscious from the knockout blow of a Muscle Buster. The Samoan Submission Machine rolls over and hooks Santiago's leg, the ref slides down and the count begins.
1!
2!
Joe-
The New Age Champion stuns the arena and maybe even the entire world full of dedicated fans viewing the momentous occasion, Summer Ritual when he finds a way to get a shoulder up just before the referee 's hand comes down to the mat. About one one hundredth of a second Santiago finds a way to get his shoulder up preventing Samoa Joe from celebrating with his title, drinking expensive bottles of wine and mingling with ladies that will do anything if you give them the right amount of money. No, Dominik Santiago, the fighting champion, the man without fear is able to defy the odds and get a shoulder up after being leveled with the deadly Muscle Buster. The match continues as Samoa Joe sits on the mat, his eyes bulged, his jaw dropped and his fingers digging through his hair as he desperately tries to understand what just happened or rather try to figure out how he just didn't hear, "DING, DING, DING!"
Fuzz:
He got a shoulder up, he got a shoulder up! Oh my God I can't believe my eyes! There is no way he got that shoulder up!
Big Al:
Your bet your ass there is no way in hell he got a shoulder up! GHW needs instant replay or ring referees. Hell we need a red flag like the NFL, I challenge that call!
Fuzz:
It was damn close indeed Al but the ref had the best view and it was his call. He got that shoulder up and this historic match will continue.
A frustrated Joe rises to his feet and backs into the nearby turnbuckle when it hits him. He stares down at his rival or in this case his buddy whom he has been to hell and back with before he turns around and grins at the top turnbuckle padding. The Samoan Submission Machine then begins to leave us in a bit of confusion as he pets the padding and points at Santiago who turns on his side and tries to make it to his feet. Joe then grips the sides of the padding after pushing the referee whom had an idea about what was afoot. Joe unties it and before we know it, the padding is ripped off the top and heaved across the ring exposing the metal beneath it. Joe turns around and once again shoves the referee who begins screaming at him out of the way and strolls over to Santiago who leans over and grabs the ropes.
The ref runs across the ring and recovers the padding in hopes of returning it to its rightful place, the corner. As he heads back over to put the padding back on, Joe lifts Santiago to his feet and as he wobbles, he takes a step back and rubs his arm in a motion that resembles someone arming their weapon. Joe then rushes at Santiago and extends his arm out. forcing it forward and aiming it at his slightly tilted head all in one fluid motion. Then out of nowhere, Santiago ducks the lariat and wraps around Joe waist so that he gets behind him. From there the New Age Champion quickly grabs hold of Joe's wrists and places his head onto his upper back. From this position, Dominik Santiago pivots 180ยบ causing Joe to turn around and look down at the mat with the back of his head folded under the upper back of the Dom while his arms come over his shoulders. Santiago then slides his feet so that they don't keep him standing while sliding back dropping to the mat and planting Joe face first into the canvas. Joe's arms are released and they fall straight down to the canvas. Santiago leans over on his side and stares right at Joe motionless body before struggling but finally turning it over. Santiago then collapses with his back on top of him.
Fuzz:
UNPRETTIER, THE UNPRETTIER OUT OF NO WHERE! He ducked another one of those lariats and just leveled Joe with that patent unprettier and Al, that may be the deciding factor.
Dammit! Joe should have just locked him back into 'The Clutch'! I can't believe my eyes! Tell me this is a dream, *censored*, somebody pinch me so I can wake up from this nightmare!
Fuzz:
Oh this is no dream my friend, oh wait, yes! The cheering fans have gotten the attention of the ref and he sees the pinning predicament! Make the count ref, Santiago will retain the championship!
The referee turns back around and with Joe's shoulders pinned down and Santiago laying on top of him he tosses the ring padding and drops down to the canvas to make the long 3 count!
1!
2!
Just before the ref's palm comes down to hit the mat for the third and final time, the New Age Champion is pushed off and the pin is broken up. Samoa Joe, The Samoan Submission Machine shocking everyone as he gets a shoulder up. Dominik rolls over on his back and leans over onto the bottom rope before grabbing and pulling his hair. The fatigued, hurting champion killing himself trying to figure out what he must do to put down his hated rival.
Santiago pulls himself up at a very slow pace, back to his feet . He crouches down and backs up into the corner which happens to have an exposed top turnbuckle. Santiago oblivious to the face just extends his hand out and invites a shaken up Joe who slowly turns over and crawls towards the corner across from him. Joe grabs onto the bottom rope before raising himself up to the middle and then the top until he makes it to his feet. The Samoan Submission Machine shakes his head a bit and due to his woozy state he grabs onto the top rope to keep himself from falling back down. Joe moves over and buries his face in the corner and holds his head which has to be throbbing. He slowly begins turning while the New Age Champ across from him slowly begins rising a bit as he continues to encourage his opponent to turn around so he can take him out once and for all.
Joe turns around halfway from the corner and as he slowly slides his feet backward, Dominik moves a few inches out of the corner. As soon as the 280 pounder turns all away around, Santiago charges out the corner like a mad bull, his head only thinking about taking Joe out and not how the attack could go horribly wrong... which it does. The Samoan Submission moves out of the way of a leaping Santiago at the last moment causing the champ to land face first onto the middle turnbuckle.
Joe rolls over onto his chest and paces himself as he gets to his feet and re-assures himself that he is back into the drivers seat and has to take the advantage. He, just like Dominik before him, backs into the exposed corner and crouches down a bit and waits for his prey to rise to its feet. Santiago shakes his head around, his hair flying around his face as if a fan had been blowing. He grabs his head and massages his temple as he tries to cope with his new headache. The champ finally rises to his feet while still holding onto the top turnbuckle and when he finally turns his body around, the 280 pound freight train comes charging at him and just like he had dodged Santiago's bullet prior to this, the champ returns the favor as he leaps over Joe who had his head down. The Samoan Submission Machine charges shoulder first into the steel ring post.
Joe though, quickly moves from off of the ring post and pulls himself from off of the ropes. He holds his shoulder and backs up while Dominik creeps up from behind him and charges at him while grabbing at him with his arm. The Samoan Submission Machine lets out a large scream but still fights the pain as he removes his hand from his shoulder and uses it, along with his other, to push Santiago , who just misses him forward and chest first into the turnbuckle. Dominik turns over only to catch Joe who fights the pain one more time. The Samoan Submission Machine leaps up into the air sideways while bringing his leg across him cracking Santiago in his temple with his foot. The champ falls back into the turnbuckle as Joe comes falling down to the canvas.
Big Al:
C.C.S. Enzuigiri connects right to the temple and Fuzz with all the punishment Joe has received tonight I'm stumped about how he is still able to get those kicks so high!
Fuzz:
You and me both. On the contrary, I'm surprised either competitor can still move a muscle. With all the pain inflicted on them tonight, you'd think this was for the King of Deathmatch Title or something of that sort. I said it a while ago and I'll say it again, the Last Man Standing will get the pinfall and that exposed turnbuckle or some sort of weaponry will come into play to ensure that.
Joe lifts back to his feet and cockily walks over to Santiago. Who performs the 'cut throat' taunt as he slides his thumb across his throat. He then grabs the arm of Santiago and grabs onto his shoulder with the other before sidestepping backwards and pulling him out of the corner and attempting an Irish Whip but only to have it blocked by Dominik who still has gas left in the tank. The New Age champ, with his resilience on display the whole entire night, swing his body in front and pulls Joe toward him causing him to fly across the ring from the Irish Whip and crash chest and head first into the exposed turnbuckled corner.
The sickening feeling and impact from the unforgiving metal of the exposed turnbuckle causes Joe to immediately stumble out of the corner and the unsuspecting challenger steps into a ready and waiting Santiago who lifts up and leaps into the air. With his back turned to him, Santiago reaches over and grabs Joe around his neck before falling down driving Joe's head into the mat below. Joe once again lies motionless on the canvas, the cheering fans chanting "SKO!" further instilling enough strength and adrenaline in him to turn him over and drape his arm over his shoulder. With the lightning strike of an SKO looking to have slain the dragon, the entire arena once again rise to their feet and wait for the ref to drop down and make the count that feels like forever.
Fuzz:
SKO! SKO! SKO! There it is Oh My God the SKO! The first one was parried, the second one was avoided and even the third one was counted! It took 4 SKO attempts for one to work and this one comes after Joe felt the terror of his own creation. The champ nails Samoa Joe right after he collided with that exposed turnbuckle. That combination may be enough to put down the challenger tonight here in Chicago!
Big Al:
This is terrible! Oh Lord please not this way.
The referee drops down to the canvas and as his hand begins to come down the fans count the numbers along with him.
1!
2!
