An Archive of Our Own, a project of the Organization for Transformative Works
Chapters: 2/2
Fandom: Dead Fish (2005), Utopia (TV 2013), Once Upon a Time (TV)
Rating: Explicit
Relationships: Danny Devine/Lee (Utopia), Danny Divine & Lacey (Once Upon a time)
Characters: Danny Devine, Lee (Utopia), Lacey (Once Upon a Time), Evil Queen | Regina Mills
Additional Tags: Male-Female Friendship, Alternate Universe - Bar/Pub, sexual content, Light Bondage, Aftercare
Summary: Danny runs into an old flame who has a bit more of a sadistic edge then he remembered... with a suspected career in torture related espionage... and gets re-entangled with the man despite knowing it's probably a very bad idea
A cheerful, upbeat Christmas carol we all know and love – but if you were there to witness the events of MPW's Naughty Or Nice, you can now hear them in your head ringing with a grim note of ominous foreshadowing. Even the card mirrors the lyric: a string of matches sure to entertain, an action packed night.
What was meant to be a fun filled final hurrah to end the season before a two week break will now go down in history as one of the most remarkable, tempestuous, and absolutely unforgettable nights that fans and stars alike have ever seen. From the opening bell of the Scramble to the final bell of the World Championship main event, every high soared to brink of space itself...and the lows will leave Millennium Pro Wrestling forever changed. Whether or not it's for the better or the worse is a matter of opinion and the will of the one great equalizer: time.
Buckle up, folks. Spoilers below for Naughty Or Nice to follow – and I must preface with additional warnings because this particular night...some things must be seen to be believed, or to be fully appreciated. If you really would rather wait to see this show on the MPW Youtube channel, please don't read further lest you ruin your own fun.
Warnings in place...let's do this.
NAUGHTY OR NICE SCRAMBLE
Rebel Storm vs. Danny Divine vs. Miggy Rose vs. Bad Medicine (Bulletproof & Dr. Phil Goode) vs. Bryan Carter
For those unfamiliar with the Naughty Or Nice Scramble, the rules are fairly simple:
Six competitors enter the ring at the same time
Four “gifts” hang above the ring
There are no pinfalls, no submissions, no count outs and no disqualifications
Once a participant retrieves one of the gifts, they are eliminated from the match and may leave without further participation
The match can only end when all four gifts have been retrieved
The last two men standing, sans gifts, are the losers, and all other participants must return to the ring to reveal what their gifts contain
While Bad Medicine were the first to arrive in the ring, the most important 'first' of this match went to the deserving and dedicated Danny Divine.
That was, of course, the distinction of being first to punch The Perfect Gentleman in the face.
From there, the match devolved into general chaos. The action is hard to track with two men in the ring or even three, but with six you can do little more than note the highlights – and there were several. One was the Rebel Storm's first attempt at a pinfall, another had Divine literally dangling from the rafters as he tried to secure a gift. There is also, of course, the matter of both Miggy Rose and the Rebel Storm pulling down the same gift at the same instant, with the match continuing until one man alone laid hands on the errant prize. Finally, with an assist from his partner and a promise to split the winnings, Bulletproof secured one of the gifts by sitting on the shoulders of Dr. Phil Goode.
At the end of the night, the winners of the match were Danny Divine, Bad Medicine, Miggy Rose, and Bryan Carter.
The disposition of these “gifts,” however, is where this match takes a turn for the shocking.
Danny Divine: a card redeemable for one match – Any Title, Any Time
Miggy Rose: a card acting as a contract for a match against Eric Watts
Bad Medicine: a lump of coal
Bryan Carter: a card naming him general manager of MPW in the year 2022
Suffice to say, after the realization that he'd basically come away with nothing, Bulletproof was furious after the reveal of his present. Leaving the ring in a rage and decisively excising himself from his partnership with Phil, fans were then left alone with the realization that the MPW Board of Directors, for whatever reason, had appointed Bryan Carter as the man who would be in charge of Millennium Pro Wrestling going forward.
Come 2022, fans will be living in the era of the M.O.B. and their ring leader. Heaven help us all.
Tag Team Championship Match
M.O.B. (Michael Hopkins & Diego Valens) DEFEATS Full Send (Dustin Daniels & Bucio)
A hard contest to enter after the absolutely staggering implications of the previous bout, nevertheless Full Send came to the ring ready for a fight. While Carter shoved his prize in the face of every fan with enough mettle to try and boo him down, Valens and Hopkins seemed to be feeling fairly confident as well. One can hardly blame them – come the new year, their own manager will be running MPW, meaning it could be a long title reign under the leadership of a man who clearly has a vested interest in keeping the belts far away from anything resembling legitimate competition.
However, despite the implications Carter's new future role may have, tonight the M.O.B. didn't have to worry. While they appeared to be on the same page at the start of the match, giving fans hope that the tag team titles were returning to their rightful owners, things swiftly went downhill. An early advantage by Full Send was lost when Dustin got in the ring and ended up trapped in the M.O.B.'s corner. Kicking out of one pinfall attempt after another, Dustin did his best to hang on, but through a combination of keeping Bucio off the apron and a little interjection from Bryan that was purely lawless and blatant interference, Full Send showed signs of life that could not prevail.
After a couple of suicide dives by Bucio that were promising, in the end an accidental blow to his partner cost Full Send the titles, with the M.O.B. winning by pinfall. As the champions celebrated all the way back to the locker room, there was obvious frustration and discord in Full Send's camp, with Dustin visibly distraught over the bitter loss. Whether or not this will further aggravate the intermittent signs of discontent between the tag team partners is anyone's guess, but nevertheless 2022 will see the continuation of the M.O.B.'s tag team title reign.
National Championship Match
Brendan Divine DEFEATS J2 w/Auntie Hydie
NEW NATIONAL CHAMPION: Brendan Divine
After last week's confrontation with Artorius and Hydie, both members of Auntie's Void, this contest was already set to be a prolific one. Given Hydie's comments provided exclusively to the X-Press, it was a clear cut battle not just for the National Championship, but for the soul of Brendan Divine and those of his Believers. Whether or not he could prevail over J2became less of a pertinent question than would Brendan escape this battle with his very sense of being intact?
Lined up to be prolific, it proved to be precisely that: a war for the oldest and most valuable of ideas, the triumph of light and goodness over evil and darkness. Laser focused as he came to the ring, Divine was pure energy: his usual smiles and waves were gone, but the air sang with electricity – with the connection he had to every single Believer in the audience.
When Hydie and J2 entered, with Hydie made up to be every bit the demon in actual horns and hooves upon her feet, the electricity dampened briefly – but when the two contestants were in the ring and the bell sounded, the air was heavy and perhaps a little subdued.
These were real stakes, and everyone in the room knew it.
In the beginning, it was the usual story: J2 was impassive and untouchable. Divine, however, couldn't seem to believe that – and it was a painful lesson to refuse to learn. J2 absorbed every blow like nothing, slammed Divine into the ring apron on the outside, tore into the challenger with blow after blow and a submission that Divine would not allow to break him.
There was a brief comeback, more than one. However, every time Divine gained an advantage, the dark power that had consumed J2 would prevail and leave Divine flat on his back again...yet even when Hydie jumped up on the apron to work her arcane will with some kind of casting to prevent Divine from hitting his Left On Read finisher, Divine would not stay down.
Even flat on the mat, with no hope, J2's weight crushing him for a pinfall...one limp shoulder just barely managed to roll up off the mat to break the count.
J2 had Hydie in his corner...but Brendan Divine had his Believers, and a little bit of luck on his side.
Luck, however, is useless if one can't take advantage of it properly. That was Divine's gift as a boon came in the form of timing, where J2 came at Divine with Hydie on the apron behind him – and J2's blow hit the wrong mark.
Hydie went down – and the sleeper hold went onto J2, who hit the ground with shockingly mortal force.
The bell rang, Hydie's puppet's strings cut, and the National Championship came home.
While the Believers celebrated with their leader on his victory lap around the ring, however, this reporter noticed something that I'm unsure everyone saw.
In the ring, as J2 came to, shaking his head...he seemed, for an instant, confused. Disoriented. Alert.
Too swiftly, however, Hydie swept in to reclaim her golem. The awareness faded, and the moment passed.
As ever, however, our new National Champion, Brendan Divine, and his legion of Believers brought hope back to MPW because, for a single instant – the Playmaker was back.
Interlude
Just as Hydie and J2 left ringside, with a triumphant Brendan Divine preparing to continue his celebration, the MPW Arena went dark. Music began to play as tension built...
...and the restoration of the lights revealed a figure outside the ring well known to wrestling fans. A man no one expected to see on this night – a storm no one saw coming.
Tyler Bateman.
Making his way into the ring to stand toe to toe with Divine, the pair shared words none could hear. Even the commentary team was speculating, which the audience could hear with absolute perfection because, for the first time in this reporter's memory, not a single sound could be heard save for the muted tones in which Brendan Divine and Tyler Bateman spoke.
The statement being made was clear when Bateman took the title belt from Brendan, held it aloft, and laid it on the ground between them.
If any further clarification is required for you, beloved readers, let me spell it out for you: 2022 just got a hell of a lot more interesting for Brendan Divine.
HOLIDAY HARDCORE MATCH
Johnnie Robbie DEFEATS Auntie Hydie
Not unlike last week, during her interference in the tag team main event, Hydie's entrance to the ring was accompanied by the rattle of chains. They went well with her horns and hooves – the picture perfect personification of Krampus sent to punish a wicked child for her insolence.
Insolent Johnnie Robbie was, too, in a wintry sweater perfect for the spirit of the season and the headwear paired with pigtails that has become her trademark. From the moment the bell rang, it was all out war, with Robbie absorbing a huge amount of punishment from a relentless Auntie Hydie. Despite the early advantage, however, Robbie took over to dish out a beating of her own—one Hydie put quickly to bed by cracking Robbie over the head with one of the massive bells attached to Hydie's ring gear.
Vindication for the renegade Robbie didn't look good as Hydie continued the onslaught, manhandling Robbie like a child and even choking her halfway unconscious with a candy cane. Every attempt made by Robbie to gain an upper hand was thwarted, either by outright violence or because of the simple fact that Hydie would not stay down. Even a brightly wrapped bat wasn't enough to take Hydie out.
There's an old adage that says you can either get mad, or get even – and as Robbie reached her breaking point during the match, she clearly came to the conclusion that it's a lady's prerogative to have it all.
Given the nature of a Holiday Hardcore match, a giftwrapped bat wasn't the only toy at ringside, nor were candy canes and steel chains the only trimmings for the tree. Searching the gaily wrapped presents at ringside and under the ring itself, Robbie eventually found a box of festive ornaments to put to good use: by scattering them across the ring and using Hydie's body to shatter every single spangled orb she possibly could.
It was the ill-fated chains that proved to be Hydie's undoing, and with a little payback for choking Robbie and a trip to the top turnbuckle, Johnnie Robbie at long last reclaimed a little self respect by putting Hydie down for the pin.
The victory was Robbie's, but one has to ask: at what cost? Hydie entered Naughty Or Nice hoping to claim souls. She failed with Brendan Divine, but the hardcore savant we saw from Robbie at King Of Xtreme paled in comparison to the vicious streak Robbie displayed in this match. We can only hope that Hydie's influence isn't infecting one of the most promising young stars of MPW – a Johnnie Robbie that's given in to darkness doesn't even bear thinking about.
MAIN EVENT
World Championship Match
Ray Rosas vs Barbie Boi – THROWN OUT
This was a match that the wrestling world was holding its breath for – but in the end, there was no exhale.
Ray Rosas, as we saw him this night, was not the veteran sage of MPW, sharing wisdom and skill with the next generation. He wasn't the wild and crazy party animal that reveled in competition during his open challenge of 2019 and early 2020.
This Ray Rosas, coming to the ring in simple black trunks and a H.A.T.E. T-shirt, was a man with something to prove. Hungry, relentless...and angry.
So angry he slapped away an offered hand from the champion after Barbie Boi made his entrance. This was not a gentleman's contest tonight...this was a dream match about to turn into a nightmare.
In the world of professional wrestling, there are contests too close to call until the referee counts that final pinfall. There are some, like the legendary bouts between great men like Rey Mysterio and Dean Malenko, so perfectly balanced it seems neither man can gain an advantage.
Though Barbie Boi struggled, he did not, would not fall. This match – long, arduous, and hard fought – was so impossibly perfect that the crowd was often driven to silence, unsure who to favor. Barbie Boi would unleash a flurry of blows, but Rosas would immediately counter. Barbie Boi drove Rosas's head into the turnbuckle ten times, Rosas would counter and start mouthing off at Barbie Boi's family and fans at ringside.
The most perfect embodiment of this impossible contest was unquestionably the moment, near the end, when Barbie trapped Rosas in a figure four leglock. Rosas refused to tap, and so Barbie went for a figure eight. Rosas struggled until Barbie collapsed.
Another attempt. Rosas foiled it. Rosas eventually reversed it, but Barbie refused to tap...
When Barbie Boi kicked out of the Macho Man inspired big elbow that is the specialty of Ray Rosas, there was a sense that the crowd could soak it in all night – and very well might if one of these competitors could not gain the advantage.
What that advantage might have been, and who would have taken it, we will never know. The chance to find out was stolen by an event that just might go down in the annals of Millennium Pro Wrestling's proud history as the night the earth stood still.
A hooded interloper took to the ring then with an attack that got the match thrown out – an interloper that revealed their face to introduce the crowd to none other than Danny Divine.
I say 'introduce,' because this was not the man that the fans knew. Based on the look on Barbie Boi's face, it wasn't one he knew either – not with a wild, desperate look in his eye as fans heard his voice begging for forgiveness.
Because clutched in Divine's hand was none other than the card he'd won earlier that night. One match – Any Title, Any Time.
The battle ravaged diva of the Dreamhouse didn't stand a chance as Divine called for a referee, turned loose with a stomp, and ended the 2021 season as MPW's World Champion.
For Your Consideration
This is the place where I would forecast the next event, or give an opinion on what I'd want to see – ask you for your own.
Sadly, the next event, Genesis, isn't until January 7th, 2022. This year at MPW is over and done, and the things the future holds for us...Bryan Carter as our new general manager, a desperate man is now our World Champion, and the tag titles may become hostage to our new aforementioned general manager.
Yet, even with an inbound challenger, the National Championship is free from the clutches of Auntie's Void, and safe in the hands of Brendan Divine and his Believers. For one fleeting moment, we saw Hydie's grip on power slip when J2 woke briefly in the ring.
Two weeks is a long time, folks – and as a journalist, I'm not one to sit and wonder. When I have questions, I need answers...as I'm sure we all do.
So while the stars of MPW will be taking a well deserved break until after New Year's, the X-Press will keep rolling. My goals will be to get answers from Danny Divine, get further answers from The Perfect Gentleman about what his tenure holds in store for us...and share with you any other news I can track down along the way.
Reach out, readers, and let me know what you want to hear about – because a journalist's work is never done, especially when you're scavenging through the locker room halls of Millennium Pro Wrestling.
X-PRESS X-CLUSIVE! One On One Interview With The Rebel Storm!
The last time we saw him, he was part of the devastation that was the battle royal at King Of Xtreme. Now, with a return slated for December 10th, there's a hint of ozone in the air as the Rebel Storm makes his way back to the MPW Arena to take on Danny Divine in singles competition.
Given his extended absence, we at the X-Press wanted to catch up with the leader of the Storm Chasers to see how he's been doing since that fateful night, and how he feels about returning to action at Millennium Pro Wrestling. It's impossible to contain a storm, but by catching up with him for a quick interview, we managed to ride it out just long enough for some exclusive thoughts from the one and only Rebel Storm.
(Author's Note: This interview was conducted via Twitter and transcribed, but it bears mentioning that, in the transcription process, all responses by Rebel Storm had to be converted from all caps. Such is the force and enthusiasm of the man, he simply cannot be constrained by conventional capitalization)
*****
X-PRESS: Firstly, Rebel, I just want to say ahead of your match: you've been missed within the hallowed halls of the MPW Arena. It's just not the same without the rolling thunder of the coming Storm, if you get my meaning.
REBEL STORM: Yes I do. I've missed the hallowed halls of MPW. I'm happy to make my return and bring a little thunder back!
X-P: And we're glad to see you! Now, the last time we saw you was at the King of Xtreme event in the eponymous battle royal. That show was a monumental one, and the extreme nature of it definitely left a mark on many of the folks who competed that night. How have you been since the event? Any injuries, any big changes since then?
RS: I have been great since the King of Xtreme battle royal! I don't remember much of what happened, so I'm glad it's on YouTube. The only lasting injury since then has been to my record collection. I broke 8 records that day! One of those was “Last Christmas” by WHAM!
X-P: Oh dear! I'm so sorry for your loss, Rebel. More importantly, I'm sorry for the fact you'll have to listen to those sweet, sweet tunes in digital rather than analog format. Everyone knows vinyl is better.
RS: I just like to look at vinyls, too. Sexy Fab told me I need to switch to digital, and I've been trying it out. But my Walkman runs out of batteries too quickly.
X-P: Gosh, that IS a problem--but I digress. We'll trade 45 recommendations later. Plus, they're far more versatile as projectile weapons! Danny Divine was one of your opponents in the battle royal at KOX: how do you feel about facing him again? Do you see this as a rematch, or something separate?
RS: I see it as a long time coming. Recently Danny Divine has had some sort of grudge with me. I can't imagine why. Look at us together! There's a smile there!
PICTURED: Danny Divine (left) and the Rebel Storm (right) prior to King Of Xtreme. Photo Courtesy of Rebel Storm
X-P: Oh my...could it be that Danny is a closet Storm Chaser? That could be another story to pursue. So you think, perhaps, that this confrontation on December 10th will be a sportsman's contest? Just two dudes, looking to see who's the better wrestler?
RS: Or perhaps he's jealous? Miggy Rose told me Danny likes to wear lightning bolt face paint when he thinks no one is around – and would Miggy Rose lie to me? He told me he's a Storm Chaser!
X-P: You don't say? Maybe that's why Miggy's been having more moments of sportsmanlike conduct as of late. Did you know that Miggy fistbumped Brendan Divine after their last match?
RS: I have heard that. Maybe my ways got through to him. I also have heard that Brendan Divine may have hit my pose during his last match??
X-P: I think he might have! But maybe he's just trying to be more like his brother...apologies, I'm getting off track again, Have you ever been told that your energy is infectious, Mr. Storm?
RS: Yes, I have. The static in the air is palpable whenever I'm around!
X-P: I certainly know my hair stands on end! Nonetheless, back to your match: it's great to see you so excited about it, and as a member of the MPW fanbase myself? I'm just as excited. Now, are you looking at all past that match to your future plans in MPW? Or is this contest your top priority at the moment?
RS: I always have the future in mind. I think there's a lot of potential for the Rebel Storm in MPW, but it's important to live in the present as well. And that means I can't underestimate Danny Divine. I've seen his greatest hits and studied the tapes. I am prepared for him. Can he say the same??
X-P: Well, he has been struggling some as of late with his win/loss record. However? That's a question to be answered on December 10, it seems. I appreciate your time, Rebel--before we conclude this interview, do you have anything you'd like to say to Danny Divine, and to your other Storm Chasers?
RS: Yes I do. First, to all my Storm Chasers: the holidays are coming so be sure to be thankful and appreciative of all that life has given you. Some are not so lucky, and if any of my Storm Chasers feel so inclined, please spread the love to those who may need it this holiday season. And for Danny Divine: whatever little playground grudge you have with me will be settled December 10th at Secret Santa. I am making my return, and intend to make it an impactful one.
*****
Can you feel the electricity in the air? I certainly can – and come December 10th, the charge will spread throughout the MPW Arena with the return of the Rebel Storm! Can Danny Divine prevail? Or will the leader of the Storm Chasers sweep the ring clean with a gale force wind?
Only time will tell. Now if you'll excuse me, Storm Chasers, I suddenly have the overpowering urge to dig out my turntable and blast a little “Careless Whisper.”
On Black Friday, shoppers all across the country take advantage of rock bottom sales to get their Christmas shopping done early. It's a holiday tradition for many, full of happy memories and fun stories to tell in future years. Sometimes, however, shopping on Black Friday can get heated. With so much on the line, fights can break out. Blood can be spilled, lives can be changed in an instant...
If you're a wrestling fan, however, Black Friday isn't nearly as dangerous. Sure, there's still bloodshed and fighting, lives forever altered – but the carnage, at least, is confined to the ring. All for the low, low price of $15.00. How's that for a bargain?
While the price of admission is low, the product remains priceless: MPW's Black Friday was a card that was stacked beyond imagining. One would think that, after a major holiday like Thanksgiving, some folks might take it easy for a week. This, however, is MPW, and they spare absolutely no expense regardless of the time of year. With titles, number one contenderships, and even the sacred lucha libre mask on the line, there was a lot to be lost and gained at this show – in more ways than one. There were heroic victories, milestone celebrations, and even a very emotional farewell to be made by the time the locker room curtain fell shut for the last time at the end of the evening.
Did Osiris Mittens keep his mask? Who is the new number one contender for the National Championship: Brendan Divine or Jordan Cruz? Did Watts make good on his word to end the Dreamhouse Era of World Champion Barbie Boi?
Strap in – this one's going to be a whirlwhind.
Let's do this. Spoilers ahead for MPW’s Black Friday.
SIX MAN TAG TEAM MATCH
Full Send & Danny Divine DEFEATS Diego Valens/Robin Shaw/Miggy Rose
A high energy, high stakes match to start the evening, the trio of Bucio, Dustin Daniels, and Danny Divine had a lot riding on the outcome of this one. After the loss of the tag team titles for Full Send, the duo was now facing one of the men who took those belts from them. With Divine's loss in the number one contender's tournament the week before, and a checkered win/loss record as of late, Divine needed to catch a break in terms of momentum.
For all three men, a win was crucial in this match – and rather than let their losses weigh them down, they delivered with an incredible performance, and a victory to top it off.
Shaw, Valens, and Rose are unquestionably great athletes, but the name of the game for the Full Send/Divine camp was agility, and it was a formula that big man Shaw and powerhouse Valens couldn't quite overcome. Despite Shaw's efforts to clean house more than once by going after the Full Send/Divine corner, it was the recently defeated trio that came to win with the likes of Bucio landing both a double drop kick and a flawless suicide dive in perfect succession. Followed by the usual master class from Divine delivering otherwise basic moves with brutal force and a marksman's accuracy, Full Send and Divine won by pinfall, then celebrated their victory as Divine took to the mic and announced that it was Bucio's birthday.
All in all, it was a great way to celebrate another year of life for Full Send's wild child – and a bit of vindication for three men who sorely needed it.
WIN OR UNMASK
Osiris Mittens DEFEATS Bulletproof
Masked wrestlers have a long and proud tradition in professional wrestling, especially in lucha libre, with a kaleidoscopic history of its own that practically makes it a subgenre of wrestling at large. Osiris Mittens laid his part of this proud tradition on the line this week by agreeing to unmask if he didn't win.
...and then Bulletproof showed up, with Dr. Phil Goode in tow.
Jumping Mittens during his entrance, the duo assaulted Mittens viciously, making an attempt to unmask him before the match even began. It was a vicious assault, directly in the face of the crowd as they tried to break the ferocious feline's arm on the barricade, and it didn't stop as the battle ended up in the locker room.
To the horror of the crowd, a few moments later Bulletproof emerged, with the mask of Osiris Mittens held in his hand. He called out to Phil, in shock and seemingly dazed by the revelation of Mittens's true identity...
...and then...Frankie Frank showed up?...
A familiar drum beat filled the MPW arena before an equally familiar face erupted from the locker room: an unmasked Osiris Mittens with the trademark necktie knotted around his waist.
You read that right, folks: Osiris Mittens is none other than MPW's own Frankie Frank.
Seemingly invigorated by the melding of these two personas, Frankie Frank (Osiris Mittens?) fought like a man (cat?) possessed. Taking full advantage of two different move sets, Frank/Mittens was unstoppable – it truly seemed as if the odds had finally been equalized, with the team of Dr. Phil Goode and Bulletproof working to try and fell both Mittens and Frank in one body.
It was a fight they were destined to lose, with Frankie Mittens taking the victory by pinfall – a victory so absolute Bulletproof was carried out by his partner in the aftermath.
Once the match was done, Frank got a microphone in hand, and addressed the crowd with some big news amidst the celebration of his victory: this was Frank's last match as part of the roster. He's moving to Las Vegas to see what he can do, and with a few words of fond farewell, he left to the uproarious applause and support of a grateful and adoring MPW crowd.
WOMEN'S MATCH
Auntie Hydie DEFEATS Johnnie Robbie
Coming to the ring with another doll in hand – this one sporting the black and red of Johnnie Robbie's singlet – Auntie Hydie was prepared for this bout on all fronts, physical as well as metaphysical. However, despite the fact that Hydie's influence has seemed to be affecting Robbie's comrades and teammates, Hydie's initial attempt to use it against Robbie at the beginning of their bout was ineffectual. It's possible that Robbie is somehow immune, or at least resistant to Hydie's strange power.
Using that resistance, and her smaller size, to full advantage, Robbie got some early offense in, but was no match for the Dapper Banshee. Robbie gave her one hell of a fight, unwilling to stay down and relentless in trying to subdue Hydie, but it was Hydie's bloodcurdling banshee's scream that won the day yet again as she finally managed to pin Robbie for the victory. The eyes on her palms were on display again at the end of the match – will Robbie succumb to the evil influence of this strange symbol when all is said and done?
We can only hope she can bear up under the otherworldly assault. A quote from Hydie overheard after the match brings the future into question regarding all who stand against her – and perhaps, especially, Johnnie Robbie.
“When you're staring into the Void...Auntie may be staring back!”
NUMBER ONE CONTENDER'S MATCH FOR THE NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP
Brendan Divine DEFEATS Jordan Cruz
This match was to determine the number one contender for the National Championship. Danny Divine, brother to Brendan, was on commentary for this one. Having lost just last week, resulting in some tension between the Brothers Divine, one had to wonder what things were like between the pair going into that match.
For Brendan, this victory meant a chance at redemption – as the former champion, who was on injured reserve for a couple of weeks in the aftermath of his loss, a victory would mean a rematch. For Jordan Cruz, who has had an attitude change for the worse as of late, a victory would mean the chance to gain a piece of gold, giving him the clout to throw around along with his claims to being the best that MPW had ever seen.
For both men, everything was at stake – and the two delivered with a match for the ages.
Beginning with a staredown and a tie up that neither one of them could gain the upper hand in, the match moved to another surprising mat contest where both competitors struggled to hold onto any real advantage. This proof of the equal footing between Divine and Cruz continued as the battle went to ringside, where Divine took the upper hand, then lost it later when Cruz drove his head into the turnbuckle. The blows delivered were so vicious, it seemed at one point that Divine might be bleeding from the mouth – still, he continued as the match devolved into a flat out brawl, Cruz and Divine trading blows back and forth on their knees, unable to push themselves any higher to continue fighting.
This match even had a Kevin Owens style Finger of God moment when Cruz broke a pinfall with a single boot just barely managing to dangle from the rope.
FREIGHT TRAIN, WRECKING BALL: Jordan Cruz, relentless in his quest to prove his own greatness.
It was a long match, but never a slow one, and a true testament to the skill of both Brendan Divine and Jordan Cruz. It was such an equal match up, they simply could not tip the scales until a sleeper by Brendan finally, finally proved enough to fell Cruz, winning the day for the former National Champion.
How did brother Danny feel about this? Well...as ever, he was Brendan Divine's biggest fan.
Celebrating at ringside by getting up from the commentary table and vocally cheering Brendan on for his victory, Danny was clearly elated. He even offered an exclusive quote to the MPW X-Press when asked how he felt when he was one of those who lost in this number one contender's tournament.
“It's hard to be disappointed with the pride I feel for my brother.” Danny admitted enthusiastically. “Despite being disappointed in myself for the last few weeks, this victory means so much.”
So, at least for now, it seems that blood runs thicker than water. However, we all know the real nature of that quote: “The blood of the covenant runs thicker than the water of the womb.” With current champion J2 still enslaved by Hydie's Void, we'll have to see which prevails in the long run: family or fealty.
Main Event
Barbie Boi DEFEATS Eric Watts
While Barbie Boi, ever the honorable champion, offered a sporting handshake to Eric Watts at the start of the match, Watts batted his hand aside. With the clear evidence that Watts had no interest in anything but claiming the title for his own, things began with an all out brawl and a close call with Watts' massive boot for the fantastic in plastic champion. Watts brought the power game, using his size to full advantage, but Barbie Boi refused to stay down. Even trading barbs with members of Barbie Boi's family at ringside, Watts spared no expense in trying to defeat his opponent both physically and psychologically.
That's the thing about dolls, however: they can take a lot of damage, and still look good.
Barbie Boi's relentless endurance served him well – even when Watts got sassy with the referee who ordered him to break a hold at the ringpost, and said he thought the ref wanted him to finish breaking Barbie Boi himself!Fighting back, tooth and nail, not even Watts' own take on the Kevin Owens Finger of God could prevent the champion from retaining his title by pinfall – and in the aftermath, a battered and fatigued Barbie Boi was grabbed by Watts, only to have his hand lifted by the challenger in a display of hard earned and well deserved respect.
For Your Consider –
...nope.
The show should have ended there, but didn't. Danny Divine appeared yet again with mic in hand, demanding the presence of one Osiris Frank in the ring. One farewell was not enough, and as Frankie Frank watched and listened, the locker room and its leader poured out their hearts, and poured out of the locker room proper to send off their dear friend and comrade in arms with all the ceremony he deserved.
As the crowd chanted “Thank you, Frankie” and clapped, the wrestlers, refs, and managers joined by pounding the mat in time to celebrate an MPW original, say farewell – and to promise that this wasn't going to be the last time. Turns out, Frankie Frank likes long drives, so we'll likely see him again. It remains, however, the end of an era at MPW, and having Frank absent each week will definitely leave a hole.
Best of luck to you, Osiris – I mean, Frankie – I mean...oh, what the heck. Whatever you call yourself, we love you.
THE MAN, THE MYTH, THE MASK: Frankie Frank, aka Osiris Mittens, posing with mask and mouse -- icons as familiar and beloved as the man who made them famous. From MPW X-Press: thank you, love you, and we can’t wait to see you in the MPW Arena again.
For Your Consideration
Seasons Greetings will be next week, December 3rd. A match or two is already being announced, so keep your eyes on the MPW Instagram and Twitter for the latest news. Should MPW X-Press catch wind of anything, we'll fill you in, but until then? Share with us your favorite Frankie Frank or Osiris Mittens moments. Barring that? What's your most unusual way to wear a necktie? Share it with me here, or on social media with the hashtag #ThankYouFrankie.
The crowds have gathered in the arena, ready for blood. From the comfort of their seats, they watch as the combatants enter the pit. When the first blows land, the raucous cheers can be heard for miles around. Only one can emerge victorious...but at what price glory?
This is the burden of the gladiator – and there is no greater example of that burden than this week's MPW event, Gladiator. So minted last week by Auntie Hydie with her four man tournament for the National Title's number one contendership, Gladiator was defined by a test of wills and a driving desperation for victory at all costs. It's fitting that the first three combatants: Jordan Cruz and the Brothers Divine were chosen by their need to win, and the fourth, Miggy Rose, chosen as the loser of the main event at Hail To The King. This week was defined by the drive of the gladiator – survival at all costs, triumph at any price.
Be it gold, glory, revenge, or all consuming pride, every athlete on this card had something to gain...and in some cases, something to lose.
Who won the spoils? Who paid the price? At the end of the night, was there anything left of the gladiators of the MPW Arena?
Let's find out. Spoilers below, for both Gladiator and for next week's big event, Black Friday.
Brace yourselves, and let's do this.
FACED WITH AN ARMY OF VIPERS AND LIONS: Gladiators of the MPW Arena. (left to right: Barbie Boi, Olijah Friday, and Dr. Phil Goode.)
TOURNAMENT MATCH – NO. 1 CONTENDER FOR NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP
Brendan Divine DEFEATS Miggy Rose
A surprisingly technical match, especially at the start, this began as a mat contest between the former National Champion and the former World Champion. It was also surprisingly equal, with both men unable to gain a distinct advantage. Divine stood firm, absorbing Rose's blows like they were little more than a stiff wind, but the tide turned early on. Hampered by what appeared to be an injury to his arm, Divine still matched Rose evenly in a flurry of near falls before he scored an abrupt pin.
The incredible athleticism on display for this match was a surprise, especially given the underhanded brawling style of Rose, but after this wrestling clinic, it was far less surprising to see Brendan Divine offer his hand to Miggy Rose at the end. The real shocker was the brief, but real handshake Rose offered in return. A distinct, but pleasing change of pace for Rose as he met the display of sportsmanship in kind and left without further action or comment.
Lately, we have seen that those touched by the influence of Auntie Hydie are forever changed by it...is this, perhaps, a change for the better in Miggy Rose?
Interlude
No one was expecting it, but everyone loved it – they always do when a cat deigns to give them their attention.
Out of the blue, Osiris Mittens came to the ring, and microphone in hand no less, to address the crowd! It was a rousing speech.
You heard it here first, folks: Osiris Mittens speaks!
Lovely words were all he had, of course – for a feline, he's very well spoken, sharing how long he's wanted to tell the MPW fans how deeply he appreciated the warm welcome when he returned at the California Classic. The room was filled with love and gratitude...
...and then Dr. Phil Goode showed up.
Decrying Osiris as a disgrace, a pretender, a crazy man in a cat mask – absurd, to be sure – Phil tore down Mittens until the loquacious luchakitty couldn't stand another vicious word.
Phil Goode wanted a fight – and Osiris Mittens was there to deliver. All they needed was a referee.
UNSCHEDULED
Osiris Mittens DEFEATS Dr. Phil Goode
It wasn't a long match, but it was a good one. Things didn't look good for Mittens, given the size disparity between the two. What's more, several times during the match Phil appeared to be wholly focused on unmasking Mittens. However, Mittens had a few lives to spare and put Phil down for the pinfall, retreating to the locker room with his pride – and a healthy dose of retribution – firmly in paw.
TAG TEAM TITLE MATCH
Michael Hopkins/Diego Valens w/Bryan Carter DEFEAT Full Send
TAG TEAM CHAMPIONS: Michael Hopkins/Diego Valens
Trouble in paradise had disastrous results this week as the first signs of discord we saw in Full Send last week took root this week. With an uncoordinated entrance for Bucio and Dustin Daniels, the pair didn't seem wholly in sync with each other from that point forward. It was a well matched contest, where Bucio displayed incredible balance by avoiding a tumble over the turnbuckle with a handstand. In turn, we saw a later display of strength from Valens with an equally balanced suplex hanging in midair for a seeming eternity before he let the blow fall.
A well placed distraction by Hopkins resulted in a fair tag from Full Send being thrown out by the referee, who didn't see it happen. The result cost the champs their belts by pinfall, crowning Diego Valens and Michael Hopkins – both clients of Bryan Carter – as the new tag team champions of MPW.
GRUDGE MATCH
Bulletproof DEFEATS Olijah Friday
This match was dictated in the first few seconds, as Olijah Friday entered first to the adulation of the crowd – and was promptly side swiped by a sneak attack from Bulletproof all but exploding from the locker room.
From there, the match was a flat out brawl. The referee let it fly as much as possible, but both men were a breath away from countout more than once as they traded fists at ringside. In the ring, it wasn't much better as Friday and Bulletproof spared no expense in beating the hell out of each other. Bulletproof, however, was freer than Friday in more ways than one.
Along the fact that he appeared to be partaking in some 'good medicine' before the match, he also brought his supplier and tag team partner, Dr. Phil Goode, to ringside with foreign objects in tow.
Flooring Friday with a record, Bulletproof picked up the pin in this match, but the crowd made it clear that he was not the victor as Olijah left ringside to cheers of his name, and relentless jeering of Bulletproof. The match was intensely vicious, and rife with emotion, easily making it one of the most entertaining of the night despite its less than satisfying ending with a tainted win.
...and then Osiris Mittens showed up – very much against his will.
Not satisfied with beating Olijah Friday, Bulletproof goaded his partner into dragging Osiris Mittens from the locker room. Already battered by his earlier match – perhaps by design, the challenge from Phil earlier easily enough to wear Mittens down for this moment – Mittens fell to the blows of the two bigger men.
Like any good kitty, however, he landed on his feet.
Taking a vicious beating right to Bulletproof and Phil Goode, Mittens stood tall in the ring with a few more choice words for the pair. Condemning Bulletproof for his bad behavior and flat out bullying, Mittens challenged him to a match for Black Friday – and to the shock of the crowd, put his mask on the line.
Will the MPW Board of Directors go for it? We'll see what happens, and we'll keep you posted.
TOURNAMENT MATCH – NO. 1 CONTENDER FOR NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP
Jordan Cruz DEFEATS Danny Divine
Per his usual, Jordan Cruz came to the ring with nothing but contempt from the crowd. Danny Divine followed, as usual, to their adulation – and seemingly unhappy with that, Cruz launched a sneak attack that Divine put down before Cruz could even finish the thought.
From there, it was a close contest, severely lacking in the sportsmanship and pure competition of its predecessor. Divine, as ever, fought with class and athleticism, delivering every move as if teaching a master class on how to perfect it. One would need to be blind to miss the love of the game in every single moment of competition – no other man in the business can turn a dropkick into a work of art.
Cruz, however, spent the better part of the match berating Divine and trying to get the crowd to chant his name. An impossibly gifted athlete with enormous strength and fantastic technique, Cruz sullies his own greatness through the sin of ego, and does his best to cheat and take shortcuts for every victory when he doesn't have to.
In the end, it was Cruz's victory by submission, and a crestfallen Danny Divine refusing even the consolation of his own brother, Brendan, who came to ringside to support him in his defeat.
It's a cold victory, but nonetheless it's now official: next week, at Black Friday, it's Jordan Cruz versus Brendan Divine for the number one contender spot for the National Championship.
The match began with Rosas taking lead for his team against Artorius, but a quick tag from Robbie had her up against the towering pillar of pure malice. Each blow, he absorbed like a sponge, grinning and asking for more before calling her 'adorable' and turning loose his fury.
The match continued as a very visible representation of Sisyphus and his stone: while Rosas, Barbie Boi, and Robbie gave their all, nothing seemed to register with Hydie and her minions. J2 was, as ever, a relentless robot under Hydie's power, and Artorius seemed to glory in the damage inflicted by the other side. Hydie, of course, showed no mercy, and took the advantage more than once with her bloodcurdling banshee's scream.
What's more, it appears her influence is spreading further: more than once, thanks to Auntie's Void, there was an inadvertent blow delivered to teammates between Barbie Boi and Rosas. The tension grew and the battle grew more frenzied until it was a free for all in the ring, all six competitors going after each other at the same time.
In the end, Auntie's Void triumphed, and friends Rosas and Barbie Boi were left bickering in the ring with Johnnie Robbie as mediator. Grabbing the microphone, Robbie chastised her partners for allowing Hydie to get under their skin – and challenged the Dapper Banshee herself to a match next week at Black Friday.
While this was happening, Hydie could be seen ringside with her glove off, and that strange eye symbol on her palm on full display. It's the same symbol that has stopped more than one opponent in their tracks...the same symbol that seemed to bespell J2 before he was abducted by Hydie and Artorius, only to return as a lifeless shell in black.
Could this strange evil eye, this mysterious power, be affecting Rosas and Barbie Boi? Anything is possible, especially in MPW – and as it stands, we'll have to see if Robbie can evade the corruption of Auntie Hydie next Friday.
For Your Consideration
Black Friday is filling up fast, boys, girls, and all other configurations of being.
Number one contender's match for the National Championship: Brendan Divine vs Jordan Cruz.
The challenge has been laid: Johnnie Robbie vs. Auntie Hydie.
Will the match be signed? Osiris Mittens vs. Bulletproof – MASK ON THE LINE.
Also, don't forget, the deal has been done: MPW World Championship Match, Barbie Boi vs. Eric Watts.
Save your money, folks – avoid the crowds at the stores and get down to MPW for next week's event. If you want a fight, you'll get a better one here.
Which slot was match of the night? Who's your favorite MPW wrestler, and why did you pick Olijah Friday as your answer?
In all seriousness, folks, come at me. Let's talk favorites – the person that can give a good, solid, DECENT case for having a single favorite, I'll buy a soda at the next show.
When Miggy Rose threatened the career of Johnnie Robbie last week, trading her safety for a match with the King of Xtreme, Ray Rosas, with Ray's hard earned title shot on the line, one could almost hear the battle cry echoing in the recesses of Rose's mind. This week, MPW's Hail To The King was pervaded with the gravity of the main event and what it could mean for the company. With action right out of the gate, triumphant homecomings, and matches being teased for next week left and right, Hail To The King was a night rife with importance – a moment in time as heavy as the head that wears the crown.
A blood-soaked crown whose riches were up for grabs. Was Rose successful in his plot to bring low the king? Did Rosas make the former MPW champion regret his insolence?
Let's find out. Spoilers below, for both Hail To The King and for next week's event, Gladiator.
Ready? Let's get this party started.
Jordan Cruz DEFEATS Osiris Mittens
The recent attitude change from Cruz could potentially hurt him down the line. Tonight, Cruz was easily distracted very early on by the crowd's taunts and voracious support of Mittens. Mittens showed dominance at the start by turning a failed attempt at a swing in the middle of the ring into a catapult into the turnbuckle that left Cruz shaky, but sadly the advantage didn't last. Resorting to underhanded tactics, Cruz gained and held onto the upper hand for most of the match. In the end, Cruz scored a knockout and subsequently locked the ferocious feline in a fairly pointless submission. Noting the KO, referee Scarlett Donovan called for the bell, awarding Cruz the victory.
Cruz, however, wasn't done, with a post match display of bad behavior culminating with yet another confrontation with Brendan Divine at the commentary table. Cruz clearly has a problem with the man – and this brewing situation would reach a boiling point later on.
NON TITLE MATCH
MPW Champion Barbie Boi DEFEATS Olijah Friday
While the main event was one hell of a contest, this one is a serious competitor, if not the flat out winner, for match of the night. While over on commentary, Dr. Phil Goode was making himself heard by everyone within a five block radius, long absent MPW star Olijah Friday was receiving a hero's welcome from the fans as he entered the ring. A rousing 'Welcome Back' chant greeted him, and once MPW World Champion Barbie Boi joined him, he was met with a warm handshake and an equally warm welcome from the Dreamhouse Diva...who treated the crowd to a few bars of Rebecca Black's “Friday” in his honor.
The match began with a thrilling storm of pinfalls on both side, and the good vibes continued as a crowd torn between two favorites instigated a 'Both These Guys' chant. While he may not have scored the victory, Friday's return match was an amazingly strong performance as tried to wear Barbie Boi down by working on an injured leg. However, the champ prevailed with a pinfall victory, and when he offered his worthy opponent a handshake, Friday slapped his hand aside and embraced him heartily instead.
Friday ended the match with a heartfelt statement to the MPW fans, breaking briefly away from the show to show his gratitude for their support and his very genuine joy to be back in the ring. Pulled away from action to serve his country (as was noted with a callout from MPW head honcho, Logan X, in the back), Friday was ecstatic to be home at MPW, and the moving way he poured his heart out was a powerful reminder of the way that this incredible art form that is professional wrestling can bring out the best in people.
...and then Bulletproof showed up.
Clearly feeling no pain thanks to a drink in hand and a helpful bottle of “Good Medicine” courtesy of his tag team partner, Bulletproof expressed feelings of betrayal and showed disdain for Friday's earnest speech. After a brief, heated exchange, the challenge was laid out, promising us a match between Friday and Bulletproof at next week's Gladiator on November 19th.
NON TITLE MATCH
National Champion J2 w/Hydie DEFEATS Danny Divine
With brother, Brendan Divine, on commentary for this contest, Danny Divine took to the ring amidst the usual cheers and support of the crowd. That, however, was where the good times ended as the bewitched J2 proved to be too much for Divine. To his credit, Divine proved to be a rare challenge for the seemingly inhuman drone of the Dapper Banshee, but in the end J2 scored the pinfall in dominating fashion.
Post-match, Hydie ordered J2 to do some permanent harm, but Brendan Divine left commentary to come to his brother's aid. Hydie, who seems to have her sights fixed on the total destruction of the Divines, dangled a National Championship title shot in front of Brendan. Ready to step up after recovering from the injuries incurred by his title loss, Brendan was prepared to accept the challenge.
...and then Jordan Cruz showed up.
Displaying a disgusting sense of entitlement, Cruz tried to force himself into the picture and ultimately succeeded. Gleeful over the bickering and the promise of more chaos, Hydie proposed a two week tournament that included Jordan and both of the Brothers Divine to see who would contend for J2's title.
The stage was set, with the tourney beginning next week at Gladiator – and with a cheap shot at Brendan Divine, Cruz ran like hell from ringside.
NON TITLE MATCH
Tag Team Champions Full Send DEFEAT Michael Hopkins/Robin Shaw
This was an action packed bout from start to finish, featuring exciting offense and defense from both sides. Team Shaw and Hopkins seemed to take special delight in sending Bucio of Full Send off the apron with a fist here and a cheap shot there, but the champions persevered. Dustin Daniels took a lot of abuse for the bulk of the match, but salvation came when Hopkins mistakenly kicked partner Shaw, and Full Send took advantage to win the match by pinfall – both men piling on top, scoring victory as a true team in every sense of the word.
Future’s not so bright, but they still gotta wear shades - team of Robin Shaw (left) and Michael Hopkins (right).
It was an impressive win, putting Bucio on such a high that he sought out the microphone, insisted that the crowd deserved a title defense each and every week, and petitioned MPW leader Logan X, who was on commentary, to seek out approval from the MPW board of directors for an open challenge to take place next week. Battered and beaten partner, Daniels, seemed unhappy with this development given his condition, but we'll see what happens next week.
Main Event
KING OF XTREME TITLE SHOT ON THE LINE
Ray Rosas DEFEATS Miggy Rose
Bell to bell, this match was an intense experience. With Johnnie Robbie on commentary, the unwitting pawn of Miggy Rose that set this night into motion, Rosas and Rose took to the ring in a start to the match that was slow, but highly entertaining. Reluctant to face the man he wanted to begin with, Rose was in and out of the ring while Ray riled up the crowd and tried to goad the former MPW champion into an actual fight.
Once the match began, Rosas had early control, but Rose swiftly gained the upper hand and used his usual underhanded tactics to keep Rosas down. Not above tactics like using the ropes to leverage a submission hold, Rose took out the arm of his opponent and pressed the advantage for most of the match. However, his dirty dealing was his undoing when a low blow on Rosas hit the referee as well. Rose scored a pin, with no one to count, while Rosas followed by scoring a submission that no one was there to see.
By the time official, Victor Cuentas, came to, the King of Xtreme pulled out the victory with a pinfall, protecting his title shot and earning a little bit of revenge on behalf of tag team partner and protege, Johnnie Robbie.
...and then Hydie showed up.
After intervention from Barbie Boi to protect a fallen Rosas and Robbie, who left commentary to check on her partner post match, Hydie continued to stir the pot by challenging the trio to a six man match next week with comrade Artorius to join her and J2. Despite the severe misgivings of a battered Ray Rosas, Robbie accepted the challenge, securing next week's main event at Gladiator to finish off the night.
For Your Consideration
Gladiator, next week's event, has a card that's already half full.
Four man tournament to determine the number one contender for the National Championship.
Grudge match: Olijah Friday vs Bulletproof.
Main event: Barbie Boi/Ray Rosas/Johnnie Robbie vs Auntie Hydie/Artorius/J2.
Whatever else comes is gonna have to be huge to top all this.
Were you at this show? What did you think? Come fight me for match of the night. I dare you.
