EC F'N W

THIS IS EXTREME

QUICK RESULTS
The Messiah defeated The Sandman, Matt Sydal and RVD

Lucien Kross defeated Lita

Undisputed Era defeated The Dudleys

Kevin Owens defeated Mike Awesome

Old School Heroes defeated 2.0

Chris Jericho defeated Mandy Rose

Age of the Fall drew Road Warriors.

The Messiah defeated Raven and Cactus Jack

LIVE! FROM THE ECW ARENA
DECEMBER 15TH, 2024

As one would imagine, the crowd inside of the ECW Arena was nothing short of electric, as the cameras faded up from black to the thunderous roar of hundreds chanting "E-C-DUB" over and over. The camera panned around the ECW Arena, picking up shots of every rabid die-hard that had waited years for this moment. ECW had finally returned back home to Philly, but the entire world was watching as Extreme Championship Wrestling took center stage with the first episode of ECW Anarchy! Standing in the middle of the ring, egging on an already raucous crowd, was the ECW Executive Producer, Paul Heyman. Decked in his infamous trench coat and ball cap, Heyman stood in the center of the ring with a massive grin on his face and a microphone in his hand. As the chants of "E-C-DUB" subsided just enough for Heyman to speak, he raised the mic to his mouth, the grin never leaving his face.

PAUL HEYMAN: For years, they said it couldn't be done. They said this little engine of destruction from South Philly could never rise again. They told me ECW was dead, that the spirit of extreme would never be felt again. They told you, the most loyal fans in the world, that you'd never see ECW in its full, uncensored glory ever again! Well, take a look around you, Philadelphia! Here we are - streaming live to the entire world on Max, back where we belong! We lit the fuse at Barely Legal, but tonight - the powder keg explodes! This is your ECW. This is our ECW. And this... is just the beginning! Ladies and gentlemen, welcome to ANARCHY!

Before Heyman could continue, the unmistakable riff of Metallica's "Enter Sandman" interrupted him. The crowd erupted again, the energy in the arena surging to new heights as everyone began searching for The Sandman. Heyman looked a little caught off guard as he lowered the microphone and began to search for The Sandman himself.

JOEY STYLES: Ladies and gentlemen, thank you for joining us for the first episode of ECW Anarchy! I thought I'd have the opportunity to do a proper introduction at the top of the hour, but it appears The Sandman has other plans!

JOEL GERTNER: God forbid anyone get's over on The Sandman's watch...

JOEY STYLES: The last thing that you need is more airtime!

After a few seconds, The Sandman emerged from the crowd, beer in hand, cigarette hanging from his lips, and his trusty kendo stick resting on his shoulder. The crowd went nuts as he stared down Heyman from afar and with a scowl on his face. He popped the top of a can of cheap beer and raised it high before long pouring it down his gullet. The fans went nuts as Sandman smashed the can over his head and spit the swill out on them. The Sandman made his way through the sea of fans, pausing to rip his cigarette and and smash another beer in the process. This time, he drew blood, much to the delight of the ECW faithful. He climbed over the barricade, ascended the steel steps, and stepped into the ring, glaring at Heyman with a mix of disdain and amusement.

THE SANDMAN: Cut the damn music!

The music stopped, and the crowd settled enough to hear The Sandman's gravelly voice.

THE SANDMAN: Paul E... you never change, do you? Always the carny. Always the salesman. Selling these people a bunch of crap while you spit in the face of people who built your legacy. Let's talk about this big, historic night, huh? Let's talk about how you booked me, The Sandman - the man who carried this company for your carny ass, the guy who bled buckets for this company - in some throwaway scramble match, while you put guys like Lucien Kross and Nick Gage in your little bullshit tournament!

Heyman shook his head and tried his best to explain, but Sandman wasn't having any of it.

THE SANDMAN: You think I don't see what you're doing? Same old Paul E. Always had it out for me. Back in the day, you didn't respect me, and you sure as hell don't now. But the difference is, I don't give a damn about your gravy train anymore. I'm here for one reason and one reason only, Paul ... I'm here burn this whole thing to the ground....

Heyman's brow furrows in confusion as The Sandman raises his cane and points it at Heyman.

THE SANDMAN: ..And I'm starting with you.

The Sandman dropped the mic and raised his kendo stick high above his head, preparing to bring it down on Heyman. The crowd gasped, half in horror, half in anticipation, as Heyman cowered, pleading for his life... Suddenly, the arena lights dimmed, and the familiar opening riff of "Walk" by Pantera blasted over the sound system. The crowd erupted as Rob Van Dam sprinted down the aisle, sliding into the ring just as The Sandman turned to face him. RVD ducked a wild swing of the kendo stick and countered with a spinning heel kick that sent The Sandman staggering backward. The crowd was in a frenzy as RVD followed up with a series of stiff kicks, dropping Sandman to the mat. Heyman scrambled out of the ring, clutching his chest and shouting for security.

JOEY STYLES: I didn't think we'd be seeing RVD making the save for the boss here tonight, but I'm certain it's only because Van Dam has a bone to pick with The Sandman!

As Rob Van Dam stood over The Sandman, a triumphant grin on his face, the crowd's cheers turned to a mixed roar of surprise and boos. Sprinting down the aisle was none other than The Messiah, the controversial figure from XPW, clad in his signature black and red gear. The Messiah slid under the bottom rope and wasted no time, blindsiding RVD with a stiff forearm to the back of the head. The crowd erupted in boos as The Messiah laid into Van Dam with a series of vicious strikes, driving him to the mat. The Messiah grabbed RVD by the hair, dragging him to his feet, and drove a brutal knee into his midsection. He followed up with a spinning neckbreaker, planting RVD in the center of the ring. The Sandman, still reeling from the blindside attack by Van Dam, started to stir, but The Messiah turned his attention to him, delivering a stomp to keep him down. The chaos quickly spilled out of the ring as The Messiah rolled RVD under the bottom rope and followed. Outside, he whipped Van Dam hard into the steel barricade, the impact echoing through the ECW Arena. Sandman crawled out of the ring, kendo stick in hand, but The Messiah was ready, sidestepping a wild swing and delivering a hard kick to Sandman's gut, before bouncing Sandman's head off the apron!

JOEY STYLES: The Messiah is decimating two of ECW's most beloved legends, and the bell hasn't even rung yet!

As The Messiah stood tall, surveying the damage he'd caused, the crowd's focus shifted. From seemingly out of nowhere, Matt Sydal sprinted through the audience, leaping over the barricade with cat-like agility. Sydal climbed to the top turnbuckle in one fluid motion, barely giving The Messiah, RVD, or Sandman a moment to register his presence.

JOEY STYLES: It's Matt Sydal!

JOEL GERTNER: I bought acid from that guy!

Before anyone else could react, Sydal launched himself into the air with a breathtaking Shooting Star Press, twisting in midair to crash down on all three men outside the ring. The crowd exploded in a deafening roar as Sydal lay sprawled on the ground alongside the chaos he just created. Chants of "Holy Shit!" rang throughout the ECW Arena, as a referee finally called for the bell and this wild match was underway!

JOEY STYLES: It looks like this is happening, folks! What better way to kick off ECW Anarchy than with pure, unadulterated mayhem!

The crowd erupted, realizing this impromptu brawl had just become an official four-way match. Sydal was quick to go on the offensive and tried to attack The Sandman, but that would prove to be unwise. Sandman was sick to deliver a knee strike to the gut and create some distance, as he tried to regain his composure after that wild Shooting Star from Sydal. Sydal charged at Sandman, but he side stepped him and sent him crashing into the steel post. The Sandman wasted no time targeting Matt Sydal, dragging him to his feet and immediately driving him back-first into the steel barricade. The beer-swilling brawler grabbed Sydal by the hair, yelling something unintelligible before smashing his face into the unforgiving steel. Sydal crumpled to the floor, but Sandman wasn't done. He grabbed a steel chair from a fan in the front row and unfolded it with malicious intent. He propped Sydal up in the corner of the barricade and delivered a brutal chair shot to Sydal, the crack of metal against skull echoing throughout the ECW Arena.

Meanwhile, on the opposite side of the ring, The Messiah and Rob Van Dam were locked in a heated exchange. Messiah was relentless, slamming RVD's head into the apron repeatedly before whipping him into the ring post. RVD stumbled forward, only for Messiah to lift him and drive him spine-first onto the edge of the apron with a vicious back suplex. The crowd booed loudly, but Messiah just sneered, feeding off their hatred. He rolled RVD into the ring and followed, mounting him and raining down fists with sadistic glee.

Back on the outside, The Sandman was methodically punishing Sydal, dragging him toward the timekeeper's area. He grabbed Sydal's arm and whipped him into the ring steps with such force that the steel exploded apart on impact. Sydal writhed in pain, clutching his shoulder as Sandman had collected and raised his kendo stick high above his head, drawing cheers from the bloodthirsty crowd. In the ring, RVD fought back against The Messiah, catching him off guard with a spinning back kick that sent Messiah stumbling into the corner. RVD charged, connecting with his signature rolling monkey flip, launching Messiah across the ring. The crowd came alive as RVD ascended to the top rope, signaling for the Five-Star Frog Splash. But just as he leapt, Messiah rolled out of the way, leaving RVD to crash hard onto the canvas.

Messiah capitalized, dragging RVD to his feet and planting him with a sit-out powerbomb, but was only able to secure it for a near fall. Frustrated, Messiah turned his attention to The Sandman, who had just rolled Sydal into the ring. Messiah charged, blindsiding Sandman with a lariat that nearly took his head off. Sydal, battered but resilient, climbed to the top rope, looking for another high risk manuever on The Messiah. But as he leapt, Messiah caught him mid-air with a jaw-dropping cutter, sending the crowd into a frenzy. Messiah quickly tossed Sydal out of the ring before turning his focus back to Sandman, who was stirring. The Sandman stood up and threw a wild right hand that The Messiah ducked. Sandman stumbled and turned around .. only to get hoisted up by The Messiah! Messiah hit him with the Fall From Grace, a sick Burning Hammer! He dropped Sandman right on his dome! Messiah pushed the lifeless body of The Sandman over and covered him as the referee counted .. 1 .. 2 .. 3!

WINNER: THE MESSIAH

STEPHEN DeANGELIS: Here is your winner - THE MESSIAH!

JOEY STYLES: The Messiah wins! I can't believe it! What a chaotic, insane start to ECW Anarchy!

JOEL GERTNER: Who cares about the thumbless wonder? Where's that Lizzy Borden dame at? She was making eyes at me earlier...

JOEY STYLES: Was it because you were hiding in the bushes?

JOEL GERTNER: I'd like to hide in her bu---

JOEY STYLES: Ahh! That's enough out of you. The Messiah is victorious here in the first match of ECW Anarchy and what a victory it was for him! I have a feeling that once The Sandman regains conciousness, he's not going to be too pleased with how things shook out here tonight...

We cut to a shot of Joey Styles and Joel Gertner at the commentary station now.

JOEY STYLES: I feel like it's been said ad nauseam tonight, but we are about to make history yet again this evening! We are officially kicking off The Extreme Classic in just a few moments, a 16-person tournament to crown the new ECW World Heavyweight Champion. This is what ECW is all about - hard-hitting, no-holds-barred action, where only the best will rise to the top. And, as if that's not enough, those who fall short in the first round still have something to fight for.

JOEL GERTNER: That's right, Joey. Even if you don't go all the way in the 'Extreme Classic', you might still have a shot at the ECW World Television Championship!

JOEY STYLES: That's right - the first-round losers will get a second chance to make an impact in ECW by entering the 'Broadcast Blitz'! This eight-person tournament will determine the new ECW World Television Champion. So, whether it's the ultimate prize of the World Heavyweight Championship or the legacy of the TV title, every match in this tournament has very high stakes!

JOEL GERTNER: We've got hardcore legends, technical masters, high flyers, and even a few certified lunatics in the mix. It's like a buffet, Joey - and you know how much I love a good buffet.

JOEY STYLES: And we are about to kick things off with the first official first round match up of the Extreme Classic, and it's one of the more intriguing bouts in the bracket!

The arena plunges into darkness, with only a blood-red spotlight illuminating the entrance. The haunting toll of a bell echoes, followed by a low, ominous sound of "You Want It Darker" by Leonard Cohen. Smoke floods the stage as Lucien Kross and Lilith emerge. Kross, clad in black with a cold, menacing stare, marches down the ramp with precision. Lilith, dressed in a shimmering gown, follows gracefully behind Kross. Her piercing gaze commands the attention of the ECW Arena as she holds an hourglass aloft, turning it slowly to let the sand fall.

JOEY STYLES: Look at this sight, Joel. Lucien Kross looks like a harbinger of doom, and with Lilith leading the way, he's an unstoppable force. That hourglass is a chilling reminder - Lita's time in the Extreme Classic may be up before she even steps into the ring.

JOEL GERTNER: Joey, I'd say Lita's not just wrestling Kross tonight; she's fighting against fate itself.

STEPHEN DeANGELIS: The following contest is scheduled for one fall and is a first round match in the Extreme Classic! Introducing first, weighing in at 264 pounds, accompanied to the ring by Lilith, this is... LUCIEN KROSS!

Kross climbs the apron, his gaze locked on the ring as Lilith whispers something to him. He steps through the ropes, pacing like a caged animal, while Lilith watches from the outside with an eerie calm. The crowd erupts as Lita's theme music blares through the arena. She bursts onto the stage, full of energy and defiance. Wearing her iconic gear, she pumps up the crowd with her trademark swagger. She pauses at the top of the ramp, pointing toward the ring before sprinting down and sliding in under the bottom rope.

STEPHEN DeANGELIS: And his opponent, this is... LITA!

JOEY STYLES: And here comes Lita! The one and only extreme diva, ready to face one of the most intimidating opponents of her career. She's bringing every ounce of fight she's got tonight. She looks fearless out here!

JOEL GERTNER: Maybe more guts than brians, Joey! I'll give her that. But she might need more than attitude to survive Kross. Let's hope she's got a few tricks up those... uh, baggy pants of hers.

Lita climbs the turnbuckle, throwing up her hands to the roaring crowd, showing no sign of intimidation as she glares down at Kross, who stands in the center of the ring, unfazed by her presence.

JOEY STYLES: This is what the The Extreme Classic is all about, Joel!.

Lucien Kross and Lita meet in the center of the ring as the official calls for the bell and the match is officially underway. Both Kross and Lita stare across at each other with intense looks on their faces as we see Lucien mouth something to Lita. The camera zooms in close on the fierce face of Lucien as he mouths "Just lie down" repeatedly. But in an act of rebellion, Lita shakes her head no which seemingly only further enrages Kross.

Then suddenly, just as Kross raises his arm to throw the first blow, Lilith perches herself up onto the ringside apron. Lita turns her attention over to Lilith and the momentary distraction is all Lucien needs as he grabs her from behind and locks in The Eternal's Embrace. He drags Lita down onto the the mat and gets his hooks in as he applies pressure to the choke. Lita begins to flail around, refusing to tap out and Kross yells "TAP!" over and over in her ear. A few seconds go by before her body goes from frantically flailing to completely lifeless. The referee steps in to see if Lita is conscious but her arm falls limply as he checks on her, forcing the referee to call for the bell.

WINNER: LUCIEN KROSS

STEPHEN DeANGELIS: Here is your winner, advancing to the next round of the Extreme Classic - LUCIEN KROSS!

JOEY STYLES: I'm not entirely sure what I expected out of that match, Joel - but it wasn't that.

JOEL GERTNER: No, that felt like something out of one of those snuff films..

JOEY STYLES: As uncomfortable as that was, Lucien Kross just punched his ticket to the next round of the Extreme Classic and just took one more step towards the ECW World Heavyweight Championship!

The scene opens inside of an elevator. The camera pans down to the buttons for each floor, noticing that "Hell" has been scratched into the metal interior next to Level 1. The camera pans out as the doors open with a screech, revealing a low lit room glowing red. The Sinister Minister sits behind a table draped in a black cloth. The red lighting illuminating his face. As the camera zooms in, we notice a pack of cards in his hand.

THE SINISTER MINISTER: Welcome. I'm so glad you could join me for a reading. At the top of the deck we have...

The Sinister Minister pulls the first tarot card from the top of the deck, showing it to the camera.

THE SINISTER MINISTER: ...The World. This represents ECW. Now in the world of ECW we have..."

The Sinister Minister produces the second tarot card.

THE SINISTER MINISTER: ...Ah, the tortured romance of the lovers; Lucien Kross and Lilith.

The Sinister Minister's tongue protrudes from his mouth as he makes a vulgar sexual gesture.

THE SINISTER MINISTER: And followed closely, in a jealous rage by...

The Sinister Minister produces the third tarot card.

THE SINISTER MINISTER:...Sick Nick Mondo. Oh, woe is me. Nobody loves me!

>The Sinister Minister produces the fourth tarot card.

THE SINISTER MINISTER: Which brings us to, The Emperor. Now The Emperor wears no clothes. Hey Paul.E, you need to stop watching those Dawn Marie videos late at night.

The Sinister Minister produces the fith tarot card.

THE SINISTER MINISTER: Well, well...The High Priestess. Clearly, this is the executive concubine of The Road Warriors; Luna Vachon. From where I stand, she's not high. She's just a ditz."

The Sinister Minister produces the sixth tarot card

THE SINISTER MINISTER: The Page of Swords. If Kimberley's not coming, we're not booking him!

The Sinister Minister throws away the sixth tarot card, hinting at DDP, over his shoulder to the floor, before producing the seventh.

THE SINISTER MINISTER: Speaking of feminine pulchritude, we have The Queen of Cups. This has to be, Mandy Rose. Now when I knew her, she was a B. But thanks to the miracle of modern medicine, she's clearly a Double D!

The Sinister Minister produces the eighth tarot card.

THE SINISTER MINISTER: And now we have, Justice. There is no justice in ECW. The only person I can think of who seeks justice right now, must be Mike Awesome. But Justice? For Mike Awesome? Don't make me laugh. You see, justice is a fairy tale for the weak and the naive. Mike Awesome may have been a force in that ring, but in the end, he was just another casualty to an embarrassing defeat at the hands of Mikey Whipwreck and Yoshihiro Tajiri. The truth is, Mikey Whipwreck didn't just defeat Awesome; he exposed him. Mike's reign was built on hype, not skill, and when push came to shove, his true worth was revealed. Justice only exists for those who deserve it and Mike Awesome, my friend, does not. .... Well that's your reading. Now get the HELL out of here. Oh, and if you ever need me again...

The Sinister Minister produces the final tarot card from the deck.

THE SINISTER MINISTER: Here's my card!

The Sinister Minister pulls The Devil's card, adorned by the image of a Baphomat the Sabbatic Goat, placing it down on the table with the others. He begins to let out an uncontrollable cackle, falling about in his chair. The camera retreats back into the elevator, as the doors close to the sound of The Sinister Ministers mad laughter fading away.

JOEY STYLES: What a freak.

JOEL GERTNER: You know, The Sinister Minister tried to read my palms earlier!

JOEY STYLES: I hope he wore gloves.

JOEY STYLES: Explains the details of the Grind for the Gold Series.

JOEL GERTNER: You know, The Sinister Minister tried to read my palms earlier!

The lights dim, and the pounding beats of Undisputed Era's theme music blare through the ECW Arena, as the fans begin to boo loudly. Kyle O'Reilly and Bobby Fish step onto the stage, both exuding confidence. Clad in their signature black-and-gold gear, they throw up their signature hand gestures and march to the ring with purpose, focused and ready to prove their dominance in ECW's stacked tag team division.

STEPHEN DeANGELIS: The following contest is scheduled for one fall and is part of the Grind for the Gold Series. Introducing first, the duo of Kyle O'Reilly, Bobby Fish - THE UNDISPUTED ERA!

JOEY STYLES: And here we go, folks! It's time for the Grind for the Gold Series! These two are a team that embodies technical excellence. Kyle O'Reilly and Bobby Fish are laser-focused and ready to prove they're the best tag team in ECW and beyond.

JOEL GERTNER: These guys are good, Joey, but tonight they're up against the most decorated tag team in ECW history. The Dudleys are gonna introduce these boys to the streets of South Philly!

Moments later, the Dudley Boyz' theme music hits, and the ECW Arena erupts. Bubba Ray and D-Von stomp out onto the stage, pointing to the Undisputed Era, as Bubba screams, "Let's kill these pussies!" They storm to the ring, ready to do battle right away.

STEPHEN DeANGELIS: And their opponents, hailing from Dudleyville - Bubba Ray, D-Von ... THE DUDLEY BOYS!

The bell rings, and Kyle O'Reilly starts against Bubba Ray Dudley. Bubba charges forward, looking for a lock-up, but O'Reilly dodges and peppers him with quick leg kicks, backing him into the corner. Bubba lunges again, but O'Reilly traps him in a clinch, landing stiff knees to the midsection. He backs off, tags in Fish, and the duo immediately isolates Bubba with a series of double-team strikes and quick tags.

Bubba tries to fight back with a clothesline, but his momentum is stopped when Fish chop blocks his knee. Bubba collapses, clutching his leg in visible pain. It looks like Bubba might have just sustained a serious injury. Fish and O'Reilly zero in like sharks smelling blood, repeatedly targeting the injured knee with strikes. The two isolate Bubba and pull him to their corner of the ring. D-Von shouts encouragement from the corner, but Fish knocks him off the apron with a running boot that sends him crashing onto the guardrail, keeping him out of the equation. Back in the ring, O'Reilly locks Bubba in a kneebar while Fish hits the Pescado dive over the top and takes out D-Von on the outside. In the ring, Bubba screams in pain, unable to defend himself while locked in the kneebar and he taps out immediately!

WINNER: THE UNDISPUTED ERA

Post-match, O'Reilly and Fish taunt the fallen Dudleys, motioning for the belts as they make their exit. The ECW crowd boos loudly, but the message is clear: Undisputed Era is here to dominate. Inside the ring, Bubba Ray clutches at his knee as he's being tended to by medics. D-Von Dudley has come to and looks very concerned as he helps out his fallen brother.

STEPHEN DeANGELIS: Here are your winners of 2 points in the Grind for the Gold Series - THE UNDISPUTED ERA

JOEY STYLES: I think Bubba Ray Dudley might have sustain a very serious injury here tonight, and The Undisputed Era capitalized on it!

JOEL GERTNER: This is a travesty...

JOEY STYLES: No. No, it isn't, Joel. Nonetheless, the Undisputed Era just notched two points in the Grind for the Gold Series and have the early advantage over the field!

The show returns to ringside after the previous segment. The camera pans across the raucous crowd in the ECW Arena. Shane Douglas' music is already playing and the camera zooms in on him climbing into the ring. Francine follows closely behind.

JOEL GERTNER: Well, folks, it's that time of the evening again... Shane Douglas is here for his weekly TED Talk on why he's the most important human being in wrestling history. Lucky us.

JOEY STYLES: Say what you will about his attitude, Joel, but Shane Douglas did help lay the foundation for everything you see here tonight. And with him in the Extreme Classic tournament, he's looking to prove that he still has what it takes to lead ECW into the future.

The crowd is a mix of cheers and boos as The Franchise grabs a microphone and stands in the center of the ring. Francine leans against the ropes flirtatiously. Shane waits for the noise to die down.

SHANE DOUGLAS: Let me take you all on a trip down memory lane.

JOEL GERTNER: And so it begins.

SHANE DOUGLAS: You see, right here, in THIS building, on THIS very canvas, is where it all began! This is the place where Shane Douglas took a belt... a belt that meant NOTHING... and I made history. Right here, I threw that Eastern Championship Wrestling title to the damn ground and declared the birth of EXTREME Championship Wrestling! And in that moment I ignited a REVOLUTION!

The crowd reacts with a mix of "E-C-DUB" chants and boos. Douglas smirks and keeps going.

SHANE DOUGLAS: You inbreds can boo me all you want, but deep down, you know I'm right. Without Shane Douglas there IS no ECW! There is no hardcore wrestling! There is no revolution! There's just more corporate dick sucking! But me? I said NO! I said we weren't gonna be their puppets anymore. I said we were gonna be EXTREME. And you know what? We made history. I made history!

Francine claps enthusiastically as Douglas' intensity rises.

SHANE DOUGLAS: But now here we are, all these years later. And what's this I hear? That Shane Douglas doesn't have it anymore? That I'm past my prime? That I'm just another name on the ECW nostalgia tour? BULLSHIT! This tournament, this Extreme Classic, is my chance to remind everyone exactly WHO THE HELL I AM! Just like I was the first to call this place EXTREME, I'm going to be the FIRST to win the Extreme Classic. Full circle, baby. From the birth of ECW to its REBIRTH! And Shane Douglas will be the one cutting the umbilical cord!

The crowd boos loudly, but some pockets cheer, appreciating his conviction. Douglas paces the ring.

SHANE DOUGLAS: So if anyone in the back thinks they can stop me, bring it on! Because this isn't just about winning a tournament. It's not just about restoring the honor and prestige of ECW. It's about proving that I'm not just the Franchise.. I'm the damn CORNERSTONE of this company! And when I win that Extreme Classic, EVERYONE will have no choice but to bow down to THE FRANCHISE!

As Douglas finishes, suddenly, an unfamiliar voice cuts through the arena.

VOICE: Bow down?! BOW DOWN?! Are you outta your goddamn mind, Douglas?! You think ANYBODY is bowing down to you?! You're a joke! A FRAUD! You hear me, you miserable bastard?!

The camera frantically pans around, searching for the source of the voice. Finally, it finds Brian Pillman standing high in the balcony, microphone in hand, a wild smile plastered on his face. The crowd explodes as Pillman leans over the balcony railing, grinning like a Cheshire cat.

BRIAN PILLMAN: You sick fuck! I've been sitting up here, watching you stomp around and spew your crap! You're the cornerstone, the foundation, the architect... You're PATHETIC! You're a JOKE, Douglas... a sad old has-been trying to talk like he still matters!

The crowd starts chanting PILL-MAN! PILL-MAN! as Pillman paces along the balcony, full of manic energy.

BRIAN PILLMAN: You might've started the fire Franchise, but guys like me are the GASOLINE! Fuck the past! The only thing that matters in ECW is what happens RIGHT NOW, and what's happening RIGHT NOW is me, Brian FUCKIN' Pillman! And I'm standing up here while you're down there, crying about the good old days. You had your shot and you blew it because you're an asshole!

Douglas looks furious in the ring, yelling something inaudible at Pillman. Francine tries to calm him down but he's seething.

BRIAN PILLMAN: Don't get too worked up fat man or you'll have to pop another mouthful of PILLS! You're not the damn Franchise anymore! You're an old man with a chip on your shoulder and a manager whose stripping days are long behind her! You think Johns are paying for a lap-dance from THAT!?

The crowd gasps at the jab at Francine, who glares up at Pillman. Douglas grabs the mic and shouts back.

SHANE DOUGLAS: You son of a BITCH! Why don't you come down here and say that to my face?

Pillman stops pacing. His grin fades as his expression grows more intense.

BRIAN PILLMAN: Oh yeah? You think I won't? WATCH ME, Franchise!

Pillman starts making his way down the balcony steps, the crowd buzzing with anticipation. Douglas paces the ring like a caged animal, yelling for Pillman to bring his ass down.

JOEY STYLES: Pillman's spoiling for a fight! This is about to explode!

JOEL GERTNER: Security had better put down their beers and get their asses out there! It'll be a bloodbath!

Pillman descends the steps slowly, taunting Douglas the entire time and licking his lips at Franchine.

BRIAN PILLMAN: I'll kill you old man! I'll tear you and your lap dog to pieces!

As Pillman finally reaches ringside and steps up onto the apron, a swarm of security rushes to the ring, separating the two before they can get physical. Douglas is held back in the ring, shouting and kicking at the ropes while Pillman stays on the apron, laughing maniacally.

BRIAN PILLMAN: Next week, Franchise! First round of the Extreme Classic! You and me! And when I'm done with you they'll be scraping your BRAINS off the canvas with a SHOVEL!

Pillman drops the mic and backs away as security escorts him up the ramp. Douglas tries to break free but is held back by Francine and the guards. The crowd chants "LET THEM FIGHT!" as the two continue to yell at each other from afar.

JOEY STYLES: If this is the chaos we're getting tonight, I can't imagine what next week will bring when these two finally clash in the Extreme Classic!

The lights dim as "Fight" blares through the speaker. Kevin Owens storms through the curtain to a chorus of boos. Owens marches down the aisle, ignoring the jeering ECW faithful. He pauses halfway down the ramp, looking around with disdain before pointing to himself and yelling:

KEVIN OWENS: Future champion!

STEPHEN DeANGELIS: The following contest is scheduled for one fall and is a first round match in the Extreme Classic! Introducing first, from Marieville, Quebec, Canada, weighing in at 266 pounds... KEVIN OWENS!

He steps into the ring, bouncing off the ropes and smirking as he glares up the entrance ramp, waiting for his opponent. The mood shifts as the sound of a gavel striking echoes through the Hammerstein Ballroom, followed by "The Zoo" by Scorpions. The fans erupt as Mike Awesome appears at the top of the ramp, flanked by Judge Jeff Jones.

STEPHEN DeANGELIS: And his opponent, accompanied to the ring by Judge Jeff Jones, from Tampa, Florida, weighing in at 298 pounds... MIKE AWESOME!

Jones gestures dramatically as he speaks, walking slightly ahead of Awesome.

JUDGE JEFF JONES: All rise! The court is in session! Mike Awesome is about to pass judgment. And Kevin Owens your plea is denied!

Awesome steps past Jones, his eyes locked on Owens as he marches down the ramp. Jones lingers at the bottom, continuing his proclamation.

JUDGE JEFF JONES: And with that, I'm calling for a recess before your trial begins. A judge of my stature doesn't need to oversee the execution personally... I trust that Mike Awesome will deliver justice and punish you to the fullest extent of the law!

Jones takes a bow and heads to the back, leaving Awesome to climb onto the apron. Owens smirks, spreading his arms wide as he taunts Mike Awesome. The Career Killer doesn't flinch, his ice-cold stare locked on Owens as he steps over the ropes. The two men stand face-to-face in the center of the ring as the crowd buzzes with anticipation, waiting for the chaos to unfold.

JOEY STYLES: It's a big fight feel here in Philly for this showdown between two men who enjoy nothing more than causing pain!

JOEL GERTNER: Something has got to give here, Joey!

The bell rang as Owens lunged at Awesome, but Awesome ducked under a wild swing and levelled Owens with a massive clothesline that sent him tumbling out of the ring. Awesome followed quickly, grabbing Owens by the head and tossing him over the barricade into the front row.

The brawl spilled into the crowd as Awesome unleashed a barrage of punches, driving Owens back through a sea of chairs. Owens countered with a stiff rake to the eyes, momentarily blinding Awesome. KO used the opportunity to grab a fan's drink and smash it into Awesome's face. Owens followed with a DDT onto the concrete floor, drawing groans from the audience.

Owens taunted the crowd, grabbing a folding chair and slamming it across Awesome's back with a hollow thud. He dragged Awesome toward the stage, slamming him headfirst into a steel beam. Owens climbed onto the stage, delivering a cannonball off the platform onto Awesome, flattening him against the ground.

Awesome fought back, staggering to his feet and driving Owens into a nearby wall with a shoulder tackle. He grabbed a loose cable and whipped Owens across the back, the sound echoing through the Ballroom. Awesome then dragged Owens toward the balcony, setting up a table below.

The crowd roared as both men climbed to the balcony, trading punches as they teetered near the edge. Awesome hoisted Owens for an Awesome Bomb, but Owens slipped free and delivered a low blow. Owens grabbed Awesome and attempted to throw him over the edge, but Awesome countered with a stiff elbow to the jaw. Owens delivers a retaliatory headbutt to Awesome, dazing him just long enough to line up his next move. Kevin Owens reared back and thrust forward with a big time superkick that caught Mike Awesome right under the jaw! IT SENDS AWESOME BACKWARDS AND OFF THE BALCONY! MIKE AWESOME PLUMMETS AND CRASHES THROUGH THE TABLES BELOW! As a thunderous crash explodes through the ECW Arena, the crowd winces in disbelief as chants of "HOLY SHIT" break out. Owens climbs down and pins the pile of bones that used to be Mike Awesome, and the referee is there to count the pinfall 1...2...3!

WINNER: KEVIN OWENS

STEPHEN DeANGELIS: Here is your winner, advancing to the next round of the Extreme Classic - KEVIN OWENS!

JOEY STYLES: OH MY GOD!

JOEL GERTNER: I haven't seen someone fly like that since I got kicked off an airplane for smuggling deli meat, Joey!

JOEY STYLES: Kevin Owens advances in the Extreme Classic. And Mike Awesome might need an extra-large stretcher!

JOEY STYLES: ECW Anarchy has promised to bring you the best that this industry has to offer, and the next match is a fantastic example of that promise in action.

JOEL GERTNER: We've seen chaos, carnage, and everything in between, but the action isn't slowing down one bit. Coming up next, a Grind for the Gold Series showdown you won't want to miss!

The arena lights dim as obnoxiously bright lights flash in the entrance arena, and 2.0's theme hits the sound system. The Jericho Appreciation Society emerges in matching sequined jackets, led by Chris Jericho himself. Matt Menard and Angelo Parker saunter behind him, exuding over-the-top arrogance. Jericho points to the crowd with a smug grin while Menard shouts "We're sports entertainers, baby!" and Parker chews gum with exaggerated swagger.

JOEY STYLES: Here they come, the self-proclaimed saviors of sports entertainment—the Jericho Appreciation Society. Chris Jericho, Matt Menard, and Angelo Parker are here to bring their brand of obnoxious, showboating antics to the ECW Arena. And let me tell you, this crowd despises them.

JOEL GERTNER: Oh, come on, Joey. They're classing this place up! Look at those jackets! Look at the confidence! Menard and Parker are oozing charisma! And Jericho? The man's a legend!

STEPHEN DeANGELIS: The following contest is scheduled for one fall and is part of the Grind for the Gold Series. Introducing first, being accompanied to the ring by Chris Jericho, representing the Jericho Appreciation Society, "Cool Hand" Angelo Parker, "Daddy Magic" Matt Menard - 2.0!

The trio struts down the ramp, loudly proclaiming their greatness to the hostile ECW crowd. Menard and Parker pose on the ropes while Jericho flexes in the center of the ring, basking in the chorus of boos. The unmistakable sound of "Old School Style" by Boner hits the speakers. The ECW crowd erupts into cheers as Dusty Rhodes and Steve Corino step onto the stage, with massive grins on their faces. Dusty waves to the crowd with his infectious charisma, while Corino rolls his shoulders and readys for combat, smirking at the Jericho Appreciation Society.

STEPHEN DeANGELIS: And their opponents, "The King of Old School" Steve Corino, "The American Dream" Dusty Rhodes - THE OLD SCHOOL HEROES!

JOEY STYLES:

JOEL GERTNER: Pure and real? The only thing pure and real is the crack that you're smoking if you think that Dusty Rhodes and Steve Corino stand a chance here tonight!

Dusty and Corino enter the ring, with Dusty clapping and pointing to the fans while Corino locks eyes with Jericho, his smirk turning into a glare. The ECW crowd is firmly behind the Old School Heroes as they prepare to clash with the Jericho Appreciation Society.

The referee calls for the bell and the tag match between The Old School Heroes and Matt Menard & Angelo Parker is officially underway. Menard is facing Parker in their respective corner of the ring, as Parker is lightly smacking Menard, hyping him up for the match. Meanwhile, Steve Corino is watching this transpire in confusion, throwing his hands up in the air as the fans jeer Matt and Angelo. Then suddenly, out of nowhere Matt Menard comes barreling out of the corner, running head first, full speed at Corino. Corino side steps Menard's attack and hits him with a jaw shattering Superkick. Matt Menard immediately falls into a heap onto the mat. Steve goes for the quick pin when Angelo Parker runs into the ring and attempts to break it up. But before he can do so, Dusty enters the ring and hits Parker with a Bionic Elbow before he can break up the pinfall. Angelo slides out of the ring as the official turns his attention back over to Steve Corino and Matt Menard and counts the pin; 1...2...3!!!

WINNER: OLD SCHOOL HEROES

Chris Jericho is on the outside of the ring, absolutely livid at what just transpired. He is screaming at Angelo Parker on the outside, as Steve Corino and Dusty Rhodes celebrate and take their victory lap in the ring, popping the fans in the process.

STEPHEN DeANGELIS: Here are your winners of 2 points in the Grind for the Gold Series - THE OLD SCHOOL HEROES

JOEY STYLES: Well that was quick! The Old School Heroes just demolished those "sports entertainers"!

JOEL GERTNER: What happened, I was getting a hot dog?

JOEY STYLES: 2.0 lost while you were out, Joel! Dusty Rhodes and Steve Corino just notched 2 points for the Grind for the Gold Series, and look like they might be the favorites for the whole thing!

JOEL GERTNER: What?! They cheated!

Chris Jericho is fuming and is verbally berating both Matt Menard and Angelo Parker for what just happened. The two try to explain, but Jericho is hearing none of it. He immediately demands a microphone.

CHRIS JERICHO: Cut the music! Shut your mouths, you filthy, blood-thirsty parasites!

The crowds jeers intensify as Jericho waves them off dismissively.

CHRIS JERICHO: Now, before you embarrass yourselves further, let me remind you why you're all here tonight. It's not for ECW. It's not for whatever hardcore wrestling nostalgia you're pathetically clinging to. You're here because of me! The Demo God! Y2J! The Ayatollah of Rock n' Rolla! But you most certainly are not here for ... sub-par performances.

Chris Jericho turns towards Matt Menard and Angelo Parker, and shakes his head. Parker and Menard are licking their wounds and look dejected.

JOEY STYLES: Chris Jericho is clearly not happy with what happened here...

JOEL GERTNER: He's got every reason to be angry!

CHRIS JERICHO: That .. that display of what you two call "tag-team" wrestling was disgusting. It was disturbing. It was sickening. And quite frankly, I can't even look at you two right now. In fact, I'm going to go one step further - effective immediately, Matt Menard and Angelo Parker are pulled from the Grind for the Gold Series!

Menard and Parker try to talk some sense into Jericho, but he's not hearing it.

JOEY STYLES: WHAT?! Can he do that?!

JOEL GERTNER: He needs to protect his name, Joey! Of course he can!

CHRIS JERICHO: That's right, boys! I'm not going to let you two run the Jericho name through mud while you stumble over each other and try to win tag team matches. It's not the Matt Menard and Angelo Parker Appreciation Soceity. It's the JERICHO Appreciation Soceity! And the Chris Jericho Eras Tour has officially begun! Last week, you saw how the fox slips from the hounds. Unlike Foley and Raven, I don't need to set myself on fire to prove I'm the best!

The JAS immediately begins applauding. Jericho basks in their sycophantic praise. Menard and Parker are fuming and arguing with each other with looks of disappointment on their faces.

CHRIS JERICHO: And tonight, I get the honor of opening the Extreme Classic with... wait, what's her name? .. ah yes, Amanda Rhodes! A reality TV reject playing dress-up as a wrestler. How very 2024.

Jericho takes a moment to soak in the heat.

CHRIS JERICHO: But listen up Mindy. This isn't The Real Housewives of South Philly. This is my ring and I don't lose to actors! Mickey Rourke can still kiss my ass!

STEPHEN DeANGELIS: Ladies and gentlemen, the following contest is scheduled for one fall and is a first round match in the Extreme Classic! Introducing first, accompanied by the Jericho Appreciation Society, CHRIS JERICHO!

"I've Arrived" cuts through the arena, drawing a mix of cheers and jeers. Mandy Rose steps onto the stage, her sparkling gold-and-white ring gear shimmering under the lights. Despite the response from the ECW faithful, she seems more focused on Chris Jericho, who scoffs at her entrance. Mandy radiates confidence, striding down the ramp with a smirk that says she knows she's better than everyone in the building... and doesn't care who disagrees.

STEPHEN DeANGELIS: STEPHEN DeANGELIS: And his opponent, from Yorktown Heights, New York... MANDY ROSE!

The bell rang and Chris Jericho began circling the ring. Mandy Rose stood her ground, maintaining her composure as Jericho puffed up his chest and milked the jeers. The Jericho Appreciation Society, stationed ringside, clapped and cheered him on by loudly proclaiming their leader's superiority.

Jericho opened the action with a light shove, grinning smugly as Mandy stumbled. Mandy fired back by sidestepping him on a second push, causing Jericho to fall into the ropes. Frustrated, Jericho charged at her, only for Mandy to duck and use his momentum to send him sprawling to the mat with a drop toe hold.

Jericho rolled out of the ring to regroup with the JAS, who formed a huddle around him. As they "coached" Jericho, Mandy leaned against the ropes, soaking in the crowd's cheers for tonight only. After a few seconds, Jericho rolled back into the ring and yelled at Mandy from afar. He locked up with Mandy, easily overpowering her and shoving her into the corner. Jericho raised his arms in celebration.

Mandy dodged a follow-up lunge, sending Jericho chest-first into the turnbuckle. She capitalized with a quick roll-up, getting a near fall and catching Jericho off guard. The JAS erupted in protest at ringside, shouting accusations at the referee and distracting him long enough for Jericho to rake Mandy's eyes and regain control. Jericho applied a loose chinlock, playing to the crowd rather than putting real pressure on Mandy Rose.

Mandy fought out of the hold, slipping under Jericho and hitting him a surprise arm-drag. The crowd rallied behind Mandy as she picked up momentum with a running clothesline, knocking Jericho off his feet. Jericho scrambled to the ropes, calling for a timeout, but Rose didn't let up. Jericho weakly rolled out of the ring again claiming an eye-gouge. As an exasperated Mandy gestured for him to return, the JAS sprang into action. Jake Hager distracted the referee while Sammy Guevara grabbed Mandy's leg, causing her to stumble. Jericho used the opening to hit a cheap takedown. He began to toy with Mandy, shoving her to the mat and posing over her, playing up his strength advantage.

Mandy, however, capitalized on Jericho's overconfidence, countering a lazy pin attempt with another near fall. She followed up with a dropkick that sent Jericho reeling. The crowd began to rally behind her, chanting her name despite her usual disdain for them. Mandy rallied in the unexpected support, firing up and taking the fight back to Jericho with renewed energy. This time, Anna Jay hopped onto the apron to distract the referee as Jericho made his way up to his feet.

Mandy lunged at Anna Jay and decked her, sending her down to the apron and on the outside. Mandy smiled and turned her attention back to Jericho .. who hits the Judas Effect! He caught Mandy flush with the elbow and she went down like a ton of bricks! Jericho covered her .. 1 .. 2 .. 3!

WINNER: CHRIS JERICHO

STEPHEN DeANGELIS: Here is your winner, advancing in the Extreme Classic Tournament - CHRIS JERICHO

JOEY STYLES: Jericho might be through to the next round, but did he really need to make a spectacle of it? Mandy Rose gave him one hell of a fight tonight, despite all the shenanigans from the JAS!

JOEL GERTNER: Joey, don't be ridiculous. Jericho did what Jericho does: win. If Mandy Rose couldn't handle it, maybe she should stick to reality TV or OnlyFans!

JOEY STYLES: She doesn't even have an OnlyFans!

JOEL GERTNER: Does your wife know what you're Googling?

JOEY STYLES: It's research!

JOEL GERTNER: Classic excuse, Styles. But while you're busy poking around on the backpages of the internet, Chris Jericho just advanced one step closer to the ECW World Heavyweight Championship.

JOEY STYLES: And that means that Mandy Rose will be competing in the Broadcast Blitz to determine the new ECW World Television Champion.

JOEL GERTNER: And unfortunately, Matt Menard and Angelo Parker have been removed from the Grind for the Gold Series by Chris Jericho himself.

Backstage, the camera pans to a dingy storage area filled with scattered light tubes and an old folding table. Nick Gage is showing Maki Itoh the art of smashing light tubes. Gage picks one up, gripping it tightly.

NICK GAGE: A'right, Itoh, it's simple. You grab it like this, and then you smash it like that punk bitch owes you money. Like, BAM! You feel me? BAM!

He smashes the tube against the table, shards flying everywhere. Maki watches, unimpressed, and picks up her own tube.

MAKI ITOH: Please do not condescend to me. Being an idol has afforded me many opportunities to break things. Watch and learn.

She winds up, slams it down...

MAKI ITOH: BAM!

... But it doesn't break. Gage shakes his head.

NICK GAGE: Nah, nah, nah. That ain't it. You ever been in the joint?

Maki tilts her head, confused.

MAKI ITOH: Marijuana?

NICK GAGE: No, you crazy bitch. I'm talkin' about jail, real shit. Imagine you're in the cafeteria, it's chow time and some punk tries to take your... I dunno... your Capri Sun!

Maki squints.

MAKI ITOH: Capri Sun?

NICK GAGE: Yeah! Your motherfuckin' Capri Sun! You gonna let that slide? Nu-uh! You're gonna grab whatever's near you and you let 'em know... That's MY motherfuckin' Capri Sun! BAM!

He smashes another light tube for emphasis. Maki picks up a fresh tube, tightens her grip, and shouts:

MAKI ITOH: THAT'S MY CAPRI SUN SHITHEAD!

She smashes the tube against the table. This time, it works and sharp shards scatter across the area. Maki stares at the shattered remains triumphantly. Gage laughs, offering her a high-five, but Maki doesn't take it.

Instead, she holds the sharp end of the broken tube to Gage's throat?!

MAKI ITOH: I appreciate your mentorship on the art of the deathmatch Gage-san. However if we cross paths in the next round of the Extreme Classic... You should know that your Capri Sun is mine... Motherfucker.

Nick freezes, then slowly breaks into a manic smile, his face lighting up with pure admiration.

NICK GAGE: Fuck yeah.

JOEY STYLES: We are back in the ECW Arena, and coming up next is a clash of ideologies, and has the potential to be a wild one. It's The Road Warriors, one of the most dominant tag teams in wrestling history, taking on the sinister Age of the Fall, represented by Jimmy Jacobs and Tyler Black.

JOEL GERTNER: The Age of the Fall claims to represent revolution, anarchy, and the end of tradition. But let me tell you something - Hawk and Animal don't care about your revolution. They care about beating the living hell out of anyone standing in their way.

JOEY STYLES: Maybe so, Joel - but there might not be anyone more resiliant than Jimmy Jacobs. If the Road Warriors want 2 points in the Grind for the Gold Series, we might witness an actual murder in that ring.

JOEL GERTNER: I just went from 6 to midnight, Styles!

The pounding drums of "Highway to Hell" by AC/DC echo through the ECW Arena as the crowd explodes with cheers. Hawk and Animal storm out onto the stage, wearing their iconic spiked shoulder pads and face paint, followed by the ferocious Luna Vachon, who snarls at the crowd and points toward the ring. The trio marches with purpose, Hawk and Animal yelling at the fans as Luna laughs maniacally behind them.

STEPHEN DeANGELIS: The following contest is scheduled for one fall and is part of the Grind for the Gold Series! Introducing first, being accompanied to the ring by Luna Vachon .. Animal, Hawk - THE ROAD WARRIORS!

JOEY STYLES: Quite possibly the two most physically imposing men that I have seen in my life, Joel.

JOEL GERTNER: Sometimes I get confused for the third Road Warrior .. but only when I shave my chest!

JOEY STYLES: Somehow, I find that hard to believe.

The Road Warriors and Luna enter the ring and pose for the crowd, before removing their spiked shoulder pads and beating their chest. It's clear that these two are ready for a war tonight. They don't have to wait long as "The Haunted" by Walls of Jericho begins to play over the sound system, and all attention in the ECW Arena is directed at the entrance way. Tyler Black and Jimmy Jacobs step onto the stage, joined by Lacey, Mandy Leon, and Delirious, who slithers and twitches erratically. Jacobs raises his signature spike in the air while Black stands stoically, a cruel smirk on his face. The group moves methodically down the ramp, the crowd raining boos as Lacey and Mandy taunt fans in the front row.

STEPHEN DeANGELIS: And their opponents, being accompanied to the ring by Lacey, Delirious and Mandy Leon .. Tyler Black, Jimmy Jacobs THE AGE OF THE FALL!

Boo's rain down on Tyler Black and Jimmy as they stop at the bottom of the ramp and charge the ring. The two give each other a nod and hit the ring, looking to start things off hot.

As soon as Jacobs and Black rise to their feet, they're rushing the Road Warriors, so the referee quickly calls for the bell. The bell rings, and Animal immediately charges Tyler Black, smashing him into the corner with a thunderous shoulder tackle. Jimmy Jacobs tries to rush in and deliver some quick shots, but Hawk swats him away. Jimmy rushes in again, but this time is met with a brutal clothesline from Hawk, sending him tumbling out of the ring. The Road Warriors set the tone early, now turning their attention to Tyler, and overwhelming Black with power moves. Animal delivers a punishing powerslam, and Hawk follows with a fist drop. The crowd roars as Black writhes in pain and The Road Warriors take a second to beat their chest about their early dominance.

Animal hoists Black onto his shoulders, signaling for the Doomsday Device just moments into the match. But before Hawk can even get to the top rope, Lacey jumps onto the apron, clutching Hawk's leg. The distraction gives Jimmy Jacobs time to chop-block Animal's knee, sending him crashing to the mat with Black on top of him. With Lacey still clutching Hawk's leg, Luna comes around and pulls her down off the apron! Tyler uses the opportunity to hit a massive pop-up knee that catch's Hawk right in the jaw, and sends him crashing to the mat outside! Now, Jacobs and Tyler begin their assault on Animal's leg. They put Animal in a corner and use the ropes to wrench his knee and cause even more damage. Jimmy hits a dragon screw on the knee as it's trapped in the ropes, and Animal clutches at his leg! Just then, Jimmy pulls out his railroad spike out of his boot, and starts driving it into the kneecap of Animal! The referee barks at him to stop, but Jimmy doesn't care to listen to much. After a bit of damage is done, Jimmy takes a second to enjoy the heat from the crowd. Animal limps towards his corner, clutching his leg, and Jimmy starts delivering kicks to the knee of Animal. Jimmy gets a little too careless, and Animal catches a kick and pulls him in for a nasty clothesline that turns him inside out!

He crawls toward Hawk, but Tyler Black sprints around the ring and yanks Hawk off the apron just as the tag is about to be made. Hawk retaliates by launching Black into the steel barricade, and the brawl outside begins. Inside the ring, Animal limps to his feet but is blindsided by a running dropkick to the leg from Jacobs.

Meanwhile, on the outside, Luna Vachon charges at Black, clawing at his face and biting his forehead. Delirious suddenly emerges, leaping onto Luna's back and dragging her down. The crowd erupts into chaos as Delirious and Luna roll across the floor, trading blows. Lacey and Mandy Leon storm the ring, Lacey with a steel chair in hand and Mandy with Jimmy's trusty railroad spike in hand. The referee turns to try to stop the chaos .. but Mandy Leon spikes the referee with the railroad spike in the forehead! The referee clutches at his face as he screams in pain and rolls out of the ring! What the hell did we just see?!

With no referee, the chaos escalates further. Hawk dives into the ring, taking out Jacobs with a series of punches and a massive powerslam. Black climbs the top rope, looking for his something big, but Hawk shoves him, sending him crashing into the timekeeper's table outside the ring. Luna re-enters the fray, armed with a steel chain she's pulled from under the ring. She swings wildly, nailing Delirious in the midsection before choking him with the chain. Lacey grabs a kendo stick and strikes Luna from behind, but Luna spins around, screaming like a banshee, and tackles Lacey to the ground. Mandy Leon sneaks up behind Hawk and smashes a steel chair over his back, but Hawk no-sells it, turning around with a death glare. Mandy flees, but Hawk gives chase, leveling her with a running shoulder tackle on the outside!

Inside the ring, Animal, hobbling on one leg, catches Jimmy Jacobs mid-air as he attempts a crossbody and slams him down with a wicked powerslam! But before Animal can capitalize, Tyler Black reappears in the ring, blasting Animal with a steel chair to the injured knee. Officials struggle to separate the two teams, but the fight spills everywhere - into the crowd, the stage, and ringside. Luna chases Delirious with a steel chair!

The crowd chants "E-C-DUB!" as security pours into the arena, barely managing to separate the two sides. The Age of the Fall retreats up the ramp, battered but victorious in their mission to cause destruction. The Road Warriors, still standing tall in the ring, scream and taunt their enemies, daring them to come back.

WINNER: NO CONTEST

JOEY STYLES: IT'S TRUE ANARCHY HERE ON ECW ANARCHY! All hell has broken loose!

JOEL GERTNER: Hey, Joey - what's black, white and red all over? That referee! HA!

JOEY STYLES: This match just got thrown out .. but what does that mean for the Gri---

Suddenly, the shrill voice of Paul Heyman cut through the chaos.

PAUL HEYMAN: No, no, no ... no ... Absolutely not!

Heyman walked out of the entrance way with a microphone in hand and an annoyed look on his face.

PAUL HEYMAN: We aren't doing these schmoz finishes here .. No, not in the new era of extreme. This Grind for the Gold Series was supposed to be about competition! The cream rising to the top to prove just who the best tag team was! This contrived tournament was supposed to be a spotlight on the skills and abilities of this tag team division ..

Heyman looks out at the chaos that lays before him.

PAUL HEYMAN: But it's become clear to me that you psychopaths don't care about competition. You don't care about abilities. The only thing you people care about is violence! Bubba Dudley might have a blown-out knee. Dusty and Steve Corino made a mockery of Jericho's cronies, and you four just made history by having a match thrown out by an ECW Official. That's a high bar, and you lunatics cleared it tonight. So, if all you care about is violence ...

Heyman looks around and casually shrugs his shoulders.

PAUL HEYMAN: Then, FUCK THE GRIND FOR THE GOLD SERIES!

The crowd pops!

JOEL GERTNER: You can do that?

PAUL HEYMAN: If you want blood, then god damn it, you've got it. Who am I to deny you that? If you've got a thirst for violence, prepare to be quenced. Because we're not going to wait for this war. We're going to settle it the next time that ECW Anarchy is streaming live on MAX! The main event will be a FOUR CORNERS TAG TEAM ELIMINATION MATCH between THE UNDISPUTED ERA ... THE OLD SCHOOL HEROES ... THE AGE OF THE FALL .. AND THE ROAD WARRIORS!

JOEY STYLES: What a bombshell from the boss! We're cutting to the chase with the ECW World Tag Team Titles!

JOEL GERTNER: Paul is really letting these inmates run this asylum!

PAUL HEYMAN: No tournaments, no round-robin series - just ultra violence! In two weeks, we determine the new ECW WORLD TAG TEAM CHAMPIONS! Best of luck, gentlemen!

Heyman tosses down the microphone as the fans are buzzing. Jimmy Jacobs discusses things with Tyler Black, as The Road Warriors snarl from inside the ring, as we cut away to a backstage segment.

The feed cuts to a dimly lit backstage area where Fonzie stands in front of an ECW banner. Bill Alfonso, wearing his trademark referee shirt and with a whistle hanging from his neck, rocks back and forth, his energy palpable as he clutches a microphone.

BILL ALFONSO: Daddy, let me tell ya somethin', ECW! The time for playing games is over because Fonzie has found the most destructive force this company has ever seen! Forget your chair shots, forget your flaming tables, and forget your barbed wire! I'm talking about a man who brings death itself to the ring - Mil freakin' Muertes!

Whistle, whistle, whistle.

BILL ALFONSO: He's the man of a thousand deaths, daddy, and he's comin' to ECW to do what he does best - DESTROY! And I got a spoiler alert for ya', daddy - he's walkin' out of The Extreme Classic as the ECW World Champion! The rest of this roster better start diggin' their own graves, because when Mil Muertes gets ahold of ya, you're comin' back in a body bag! I don't care what bag of bones you put in front of my man Mil, he's going to tear 'em to shreds and it all starts in two weeks on Anarchy, baby! He's gonna pulverize that Maki Itoh bitch into the ground!

Whistle, whistle - suddenly, someone steps into frame and and yanks the whistle away from Fonzie's mouth. The camera pulls back a bit to reveal "Sick" Nick Mondo. The crowd pops as Mondo intensely looks at Fonzie.

"SICK" NICK MONDO: Annihilate? Dominate? Digging graves? Cute story, Fonzie, but you're looking at someone who's already died a thousand times and is still here. I've been smashed, slashed, burned, and thrown from rooftops. And you think your boy Mil Muertes is going to scare me? Not a chance.

Fonzie snarls at Mondo, who shakes his head.

"SICK" NICK MONDO: You're hyping up a monster, but trust me when I say .. I am the real monster, Fonzie. Next week, in the first round of The Extreme Classic, I'm going to show the world why no one - and I mean no one - is more violent than me. On the next episode of Anarchy, I'm gonna beat that bitch Nick Gage and prove that I'm the most violent mother fucker in the world. And then I'm taking out your boy Mil Muertes. He might call himself the man of a thousand deaths, butif we step in that ring, I'm gonna give him one he'll never forget. I'm the one who's walking away with the World Title..

Fonzie, clearly flustered, blows his whistle loudly in Mondo's face, forcing him to step back. Fonzie glares at Mondo, his voice sharp and venomous.

BILL ALFONSO: Listen here, you little punk, when my client Mil Muertes is in the house, you're gonna wish you stayed buried! He's gonna leave you for the vultures, Mondo, and there ain't gonna be a thousand deaths for you - just one. And it's gonna be the last one, daddy!

Fonzie blows the whistle again and storms off-camera, leaving Mondo standing there with a grin on his face as the segment ends and cuts back to ringside.

JOEY STYLES: Ladies and gentlemen, after what we saw at Barely Legal, this match has the makings of an absolute war. Raven and Cactus Jack are about to do battle, and the last time they crossed paths, Cactus Jack set Raven on FIRE.

JOEL GERTNER: Really puts you in the holiday spirit, doesn't it?

The lights dim, and the familiar, brooding guitar riffs of Raven's theme echo through the ECW Arena. The crowd showers him with boos, but Raven doesn't care. He steps out from the curtain, his signature flannel tied around his waist, hair hanging in his face, and his expression vacant. He slowly walks to the ring, ignoring the fans, stopping only to sit cross-legged in the corner.

STEPHEN DeANGELIS: The following contest is scheduled for one fall and is a first round match in the Extreme Classic. Already in the ring, this is - RAVEN!

JOEY STYLES: Raven, one of the darkest, most calculating minds in professional wrestling, has made his way into the Extreme Classic. And tonight, he faces another man who lives and breathes violence: Cactus Jack.

JOEL GERTNER: This is a collision course with insanity. Who even knows the state that these two are in after the war they waged at Barely Legal! Raven and Cactus Jack don't wrestle to win - they wrestle to destroy, and that's exactly what this crowd came to see.

Moments later, Cactus Jack's theme echoes through the arena, and the crowd erupts as Cactus Jack storms onto the stage, holding a trash can full of weapons. He swings the trash can like a madman and throws it into the ring, causing Raven to calmly roll out and lean against the barricade.

STEPHEN DeANGELIS: And his opponent, this is CACTUS JACK!

JOEL GERTNER: Look at him, Joey! Cactus Jack is ECW incarnate: wild, unpredictable, and more than willing to rip his own body apart just to inflict pain on someone else.

Jack slides into the ring, throwing weapons around as the crowd chants "E-C-DUB". He taunts Raven to get back in the ring as the referee prepares to start the match.

Before the bell can ring, the lights suddenly cut out, plunging the arena into darkness. The crowd murmurs in confusion as "Prayer" by Disturbed begins to play. When the lights come back on, standing in the center of the ring is The Messiah, wielding a barbed wire bat. The crowd roars in shock as Raven and Cactus Jack look at each other, momentarily united in confusion.

JOEY STYLES: Wait a minute! That's ... that's The Messiah! What's he doing here? He's not even in this match!

JOEL GERTNER: Joey, I don't know what's going on, but this is ECW - chaos is the rule, not the exception! And look at that barbed wire bat! The Messiah didn't come here to play games!

The referee shrugs his shoulders, and we have an impromptu Three Way Dance!

Messiah wastes no time, swinging the bat at Cactus Jack, who barely ducks under the blow. Raven charges Messiah, but is met with a hard kick to the midsection. Messiah plants Raven with a shot across the back with the barbed wire bat! He immediately turns his attention back to Cactus Jack and Messiah screams, "This is my match now!". Messiah immediately takes control, bashing Cactus Jack in the ribs with the barbed wire bat and tossing him out of the ring. With Jack down, Messiah turns his attention to Raven, dragging him up by his hair and delivering brutal knee strikes to the face. He whips Raven into the corner and charges with a running knee, sending Raven crumpling to the mat.

Outside the ring, Cactus Jack pulls himself up, grabbing a steel chair. He slides into the ring and swings it at Messiah, but Messiah counters with a low dropkick, driving the chair into Jack's face. Messiah then locks in a camel clutch on Jack, raking the barbed wire bat across his forehead as the crowd gasps in horror.

Raven recovers and blindsides Messiah a kendo stick from the trash can. He unloads on Messiah, delivering shot after shot to his back, causing him to release the hold. The crowd erupts as Raven sets up a table in the corner. He drags Messiah to his feet, looking to drive him through it, but Jack comes out of nowhere, clotheslining both men to the mat. With a sick look in his eye, Jack exits the ring and looks for more plunder. Soon, he grabs a barbed wire board from under the ring and slides it in. He sets it up in the center of the ring, but Messiah cuts him off with a low blow. With Jack doubled over, Messiah hoists him up and delivers a backdrop onto the barbed wire board, leaving Jack screaming in pain!

Raven, determined, grabs the trash can and smashes it over Messiah's head. Messiah staggers but doesn't fall, instead hitting a desperation superkick that sends Raven through the table in the corner! The crowd erupts in disbelief as Messiah turns his attention back to Cactus Jack, who's somehow made his way out of the barbed wire and is crawling toward the ropes. The Messiah grabs him up and struggles but eventually hoists up Cactus Jack. He runs and delivers a Death Valley Driver in the corner, smashing Cactus Jack atop of Raven in the corner! He quickly follows it up by grabbing Jack by the wrist and hoisting him back up onto his shoulders. He walks him out towards the center of the ring and hits the Fall From Grace onto the barbed wire board! Holy shit! The Messiah makes a cover .. and the referee counts .. 1 .. 2 ..3!

WINNER: THE MESSIAH

STEPHEN DeANGELIS: And here is your winner, advancing to the next round of the Extreme Classic - THE MESSIAH!

Messiah stands tall in the center of the ring, his barbed wire bat raised high as the crowd boos. He smiles as he looks around at Raven unconscious in the broken table and Cactus Jack tangled in the barbed wire. He poses as the fans boo loudly.

JOEY STYLES: The Messiah has just shocked the world! He wasn't even supposed to be in this match, and now he's advancing in The Extreme Classic! This is madness1

JOEL GERTNER: Madness? Joey, this is genius! The Messiah just walked into a match between two of the most violent men in wrestling history and left them in ruins! He defeated The Sandman, Raven and Cactus Jack in the same night! ECW might have just found its next World Champion!

The camera focuses on Messiah standing tall as EMTs rush to check on Raven and Cactus Jack. The show ends with Messiah smirking, motioning for the title around his waist, as the crowd boos him loudly.

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