Post by UNION of SPORTS! on Oct 13, 2018 23:01:26 GMT -5
GAIJIN NO SPECIAL ~ ATTACK OF THE CASTLE! Day 6
10/13/2018
Yamato Athletic Plaza, Fukuoka, Japan
We had a crowd of 4,500 fans show up to MAX-J’s GAIJIN NO SPECIAL tonight at the Yamato Athletic Plaza. While many of the fans showed up to support the fighters, outside the arena there was a group of a hundred or so Demon Brigade zealots sitting cross-legged in front of the entrance to boycott the event, forcing fans to step around them. Eventually the police were called in and it was reported that three of these fans had been arrested. To think this would only be the beginning of the night’s shenanigans and surprises.
A lot of this match came down to Rafa versus FDJ. The ex-football star turned up the heat on the mangy West Virginia giant, using his tackling skills to keep things on the ground. But eventually FDJ caught and lifted him up for a jackknife powerbomb and get a 1-2-2.5 count as the fans couldn’t believe that Rafa was still conscious. FDJ would keep up the offense with a mix of double axe-handles, overhand punches, and just generally throwing Rafa around the ring like rag doll. But Rafa would fight back and somehow haul FDJ over his head for a belly-to-belly suplex to escape and tag in Seville! Unfortunately, once tagged in he’d get put down with a running face kick from FDJ for the 1-2-3.
Our reporter in the field, Sue Tsuboi, heard a report that Go Gensai was spotted backstage. As you may remember, Kai Harrison reported on his radio program SEKAI NO KAI that there was a rumor that Gensai would show up on 10/13 in an attempt to attack a previously identified gaijin. Rumor has it that she followed the Pale General backstage but he disappeared around the corner and the trail went cold.
This back-and-forth would be a battle of how Hammerstein dealt with the fearsome right knee of Gage. This match would see the two men in the clinch with Gage trying to land knees to the chest while Hammer was doing everything he could to keep the fight from going to the ground. Eventually the American Monster would snatch the leg and hit a captured buster, just the beginning of his offense that would feature a dazzling array of suplexes. In the end, however, Hammerstein would lock on his Python Sleeper to get the tapout submission and pick up the win this evening.
Rafa Whatley and Justin Seville vs. Frank Dylan James and Jack Tillman
A lot of this match came down to Rafa versus FDJ. The ex-football star turned up the heat on the mangy West Virginia giant, using his tackling skills to keep things on the ground. But eventually FDJ caught and lifted him up for a jackknife powerbomb and get a 1-2-2.5 count as the fans couldn’t believe that Rafa was still conscious. FDJ would keep up the offense with a mix of double axe-handles, overhand punches, and just generally throwing Rafa around the ring like rag doll. But Rafa would fight back and somehow haul FDJ over his head for a belly-to-belly suplex to escape and tag in Seville! Unfortunately, once tagged in he’d get put down with a running face kick from FDJ for the 1-2-3.
Meanwhile…
Our reporter in the field, Sue Tsuboi, heard a report that Go Gensai was spotted backstage. As you may remember, Kai Harrison reported on his radio program SEKAI NO KAI that there was a rumor that Gensai would show up on 10/13 in an attempt to attack a previously identified gaijin. Rumor has it that she followed the Pale General backstage but he disappeared around the corner and the trail went cold.
Jacob Hammerstein vs. David Gage
This back-and-forth would be a battle of how Hammerstein dealt with the fearsome right knee of Gage. This match would see the two men in the clinch with Gage trying to land knees to the chest while Hammer was doing everything he could to keep the fight from going to the ground. Eventually the American Monster would snatch the leg and hit a captured buster, just the beginning of his offense that would feature a dazzling array of suplexes. In the end, however, Hammerstein would lock on his Python Sleeper to get the tapout submission and pick up the win this evening.
MAX vs. LION’S ROAD ~ ULTIMATE FINALE: Mike Musket vs. Alexander Irvine
“Mighty Fine” Mike Musket versus the W.A.L.L. leader Alexander Irvine showcased both the strength and technical prowess of both men. Irvine started out with fancy footwork, interestingly using his boxing skills to work his way inside to grapple with the hillbilly heavyweight. It was a strategy that worked in the early going as Irvine scored a single leg takedown and got Musket onto his back. But it was the wily country fellow who managed a triangle hold to nearly choke out Irvine. But it was the “Unnatural” who lifted up Musket into a powerbomb and dropped him with a thud! But Musket didn’t break the hold! Irvine mustered the strength to lift him again and this did the trick.
However, lifting Musket seemed to take its toll as Irvine clutched his back for the rest of the match, hitting a German suplex a few minutes later but being unable to bridge the pin and thus only getting a 2.5 count. Irvine rebounding against the ropes for his patented running elbow smash would see Musket catch him with the infamous Backbreaker Heard ‘Round the World. Musket would nail three straight backdrop drivers to finally put down Alexander Irvine for the 1-2-3.
The two men remained surprisingly cordial after the match with Irvine telling Musket he should come fight in Lion’s Road again. Musket replied something to the effect that he’d have to see when the next clipper ship would be coming in and maybe he could make it to America as a stowaway.
#1 Contender for “King of Lions” World’s Heavyweight Championship: AJ Knight vs. Matt Pulver
[BROADCAST IN FULL]
Pulver and Knight circle one another, Matt Pulver seems utterly focused, while Knight seems a bit gun shy as the bell rings. Pulver shoots for the lock up, and goes behind with a rear waist lock on his former friend. AJ drops down, but Pulver leapfrogs over and grabs a front face lock. AJ turns over grabbing a wrist lock, but Pulver counters with a drop toehold as AJ stands back up and grabs a heel hook as AJ grabs the bottom rope.
TIM FLOSS:
AJ not quite able to keep up with Matt Pulver in that opening exchange.
ALBERT MORDECAI:
I think it comes back to how the last match ended: He got caught coming in so he’s overly cautious. But to beat a wrestler like Pulver, you’ve got to take some risks.
AJ comes up to his feet looking at Pulver who invites him back into the center of the ring. AJ obliges, but as Pulver tries to lock up with him, he kicks him in the gut, and whips him into the ropes! AJ attempts a dropkick only for Pulver to hold onto the ropes making AJ miss and hit the mat hard! Pulver rolls him up with a Crucifix! 1-2-Kickout! AJ rolls over and attempts a pin on Pulver, but he works his way out before 1, and grabs a short arm scissor! AJ struggles to escape, but ultimately goes to the ropes for another escape. Matt lets go, patting AJ on the head.
TIM FLOSS:
Matt Pulver is rolling right now. He has AJ’s number, and if he keeps this up he’s well on his way to facing the winner of our main event tonight!
ALBERT MORDECAI:
Matt Pulver is wrestling brilliantly here. He’s been a man possessed trying to get back in the Title Picture, and right now he’s totally outclassing The Crusader.
The two combatants come back to the center of the ring, AJ comes towards Pulver who keeps him at bay with a leg kick. AJ steps back and shakes it off, he steps back in and is met with a couple more leg kicks, one of which AJ catches, he starts trying to put Pulver in abdominal stretch.. Matt counters out- He’s looking for the Gannosuke Clutch early! AJ rolls through! Pulver’s shoulders are down! 1-2-Kickout from Pulver! Knight and Pulver both come up! Knight goes for the Superkick up top- Pulver goes to block- AJ fakes him out! Superkick to the gut! Pulver drops to a knee! Another to the jaw! Cover! 1-2-Kickout, Pulver rolls to the floor!
ALBERT MORDECAI:
Somewhere Izawa Fujiyama is smiling. That woke AJ up, he had it scouted and knew exactly what to do! He got caught switching gears just a bit ago, but now he’s back on track.
TIM FLOSS:
Pulver’s collecting himself now. That clearly surprised him.
The confident smirk of AJ Knight returns to his face for the first time since July, as Matt Pulver slides back in. The two go for a lock up, but AJ ducks under and grabs the waist lock, AJ runs him into the ropes and gives him an O’Connor roll!
1...
2...
Kickout by Pulver!
AJ gets kicked into the ropes, Pulver comes up and attempts a forearm smash to the back of his head, AJ ducks and turns Pulver around and hits him with a knife-edge chop! Swinging Neckbreaker! 1-2-Kickout and AJ transitions into a Cravate!
TIM FLOSS:
Well this did a complete 180 in a hurry! AJ’s all over him!
ALBERT MORDECAI:
He’s not letting him find a rhythm right now. This is what the Twin Paths style is all about.
Knight cranks on Pulver’s neck, with a smirk on his face. Matt works back to his feet, he hits a series of back elbows and hits the ropes… AJ cuts him off with a dropkick! He looks down at the man who took the belt from him shaking his head. He pulls him up and blisters his chest with another chop, Pulver returns the favor and AJ nails a European Uppercut, sending Pulver back down to the mat!
TIM FLOSS:
Matt’s got to give himself some breathing room, get some space between them, and reevaluate his game plan.
ALBERT MORDECAI:
I don’t think AJ’s about to let him do that, he’s going to keep pouring on the pressure, and force Matt to play his game. Pulver’s an excellent counter wrestler though, so I think once Matt sees an opening he can turn this around in a heartbeat.
AJ grabs another waistlock-German Suplex! He's got it bridged!
TIM FLOSS:
Well this did a complete 180 in a hurry! AJ’s all over him!
ALBERT MORDECAI:
He’s not letting him find a rhythm right now. This is what the Twin Paths style is all about.
Knight cranks on Pulver’s neck, with a smirk on his face. Matt works back to his feet, he hits a series of back elbows and hits the ropes… AJ cuts him off with a dropkick! He looks down at the man who took the belt from him shaking his head. He pulls him up and blisters his chest with another chop, Pulver returns the favor and AJ nails a European Uppercut, sending Pulver back down to the mat!
TIM FLOSS:
Matt’s got to give himself some breathing room, get some space between them, and reevaluate his game plan.
ALBERT MORDECAI:
I don’t think AJ’s about to let him do that, he’s going to keep pouring on the pressure, and force Matt to play his game. Pulver’s an excellent counter wrestler though, so I think once Matt sees an opening he can turn this around in a heartbeat.
AJ grabs another waistlock-German Suplex! He's got it bridged!
1...
2...
3-Kickout by Pulver!
AJ grabs the wrist- Holy Ouch! AJ gestures with a throat slash… He sets up Knightfall, but Pulver responds with short right hands to the gut… He goes for the Gannosuke clutch again! Knee to the gut from AJ cuts him off! AJ asks “What’s the matter? You already out of ideas?” AJ slaps Pulver in the back of the head, before whipping Pulver into the corner charging in after him! Pulver runs off the buckles and flips out of the way- AJ turns to swing at him- Pulver ducks- Victory Roll!
1...
2...
3-Kickout by AJ! Double stomp from Pulver! Both men are down!
TIM FLOSS:
And again the momentum shifts. AJ gave Pulver breathing room. He took the opening, and now the playing field is leveled!
ALBERT MORDECAI:
That’s what Pulver’s so good at! Identifying openings and capitalizing, he knows AJ very well and that has to help.
AJ comes back to his knees, but Pulver slides in and takes the arm, looking for a Kimura lock! AJ pushes off of his toes, vaulting out of the submission attempt and putting him in north-south position, Pulver turns over and AJ grabs a front chancery. Pulver twists out from the bottom, looking to take AJ’s back- He’s going for the Crucifix- AJ counters and stacks Pulver on his shoulders!
TIM FLOSS:
And again the momentum shifts. AJ gave Pulver breathing room. He took the opening, and now the playing field is leveled!
ALBERT MORDECAI:
That’s what Pulver’s so good at! Identifying openings and capitalizing, he knows AJ very well and that has to help.
AJ comes back to his knees, but Pulver slides in and takes the arm, looking for a Kimura lock! AJ pushes off of his toes, vaulting out of the submission attempt and putting him in north-south position, Pulver turns over and AJ grabs a front chancery. Pulver twists out from the bottom, looking to take AJ’s back- He’s going for the Crucifix- AJ counters and stacks Pulver on his shoulders!
1...
2...
3--Kickout!
AJ immediately transitions into a Fujiwara Armbar! Pulver struggles… He starts turning to his side… rolls AJ over to his back
1...
2...
Kickout!
He slaps on a cross armbreaker! AJ rinds himself in trouble… He stacks Pulver up!
1...
2...
3-Kickout by Pulver!
AJ comes back to his feet as Pulver breaks the hold. The audience applauds the skill, and AJ adds his own golf clap with a smug grin. Pulver intently stares a hole through AJ.
TIM FLOSS:
Even exchange on the mat, and now we’re seeing a bit of mental warfare.
ALBERT MORDECAI:
It was smart of him to end that exchange there. He got the last word in that exchange, although it was even. That smirk and smug clapping has got to bug Pulver. It shows that AJ’s not all that worried.
The two go back to circling each other, AJ’s confidence seems fully back. AJ shoots in and Pulver steps backwards, hesitating to engage here. AJ again steps forward but Pulver repeats this action. AJ mockingly asks “What’s the matter? Don’t you want the belt back?” At that line Pulver steps forward, AJ comes forward to meet him, but Pulver counters with an armdrag! AJ comes back after him but gets caught with another! And a third! AJ comes back up- Shotgun dropkick by Pulver knocks AJ out to the apron! Baseball slide dropkick sends him from the Apron to the floor!
TIM FLOSS:
That’s exactly what he needed, breaking his momentum. Try to get in his head a little bit.
ALBERT MORDECAI:
Not only that he gets some time to collect his thoughts and figure out his next move.
Pulver sits in the middle of the ring, as AJ rolls back in. AJ comes after Pulver who performs a dropdown, but AJ jumps over. Pulver hits the ropes AJ tries for a lariat, Pulver ducks and catches AJ with a Sunset flip!
TIM FLOSS:
Even exchange on the mat, and now we’re seeing a bit of mental warfare.
ALBERT MORDECAI:
It was smart of him to end that exchange there. He got the last word in that exchange, although it was even. That smirk and smug clapping has got to bug Pulver. It shows that AJ’s not all that worried.
The two go back to circling each other, AJ’s confidence seems fully back. AJ shoots in and Pulver steps backwards, hesitating to engage here. AJ again steps forward but Pulver repeats this action. AJ mockingly asks “What’s the matter? Don’t you want the belt back?” At that line Pulver steps forward, AJ comes forward to meet him, but Pulver counters with an armdrag! AJ comes back after him but gets caught with another! And a third! AJ comes back up- Shotgun dropkick by Pulver knocks AJ out to the apron! Baseball slide dropkick sends him from the Apron to the floor!
TIM FLOSS:
That’s exactly what he needed, breaking his momentum. Try to get in his head a little bit.
ALBERT MORDECAI:
Not only that he gets some time to collect his thoughts and figure out his next move.
Pulver sits in the middle of the ring, as AJ rolls back in. AJ comes after Pulver who performs a dropdown, but AJ jumps over. Pulver hits the ropes AJ tries for a lariat, Pulver ducks and catches AJ with a Sunset flip!
1...
2... AJ turns it over!
1...
2...
Pulver attempts to turn it back into a pin, but AJ rolls through-Triangle from Pulver! AJ is in trouble! He’s waving his finger letting the referee know he’s still okay to continue! He gets up on his toes… Jackknife!
1...
2...
3 - NO! Pulver kicks out!
As AJ returns to his feet Pulver secures a single leg takedown… Wrinkle in Time!
TIM FLOSS:
Great series of counters between the two of them! Pulver locks on The Wrinkle in Time! AJ knows this hold well!
ALBERT MORDECAI:
Look at AJ’s face! This is his former best friend’s hold, and that still has to be a sore spot for AJ! That’s got to get in his head!
AJ’s face is the very picture of intensity! He grits his teeth as he looks up at his former tag partner! Pulver looks over his shoulder as he sees a look of utter disdain on the face of the Crusader! He wrenches back with all his might! AJ realizes he’s caught in the center of the ring, and grabs the foot of Pulver… And wrenches it abruptly to the side! Pulver falls to the mat with a stifled groan of pain!
TIM FLOSS:
Brutal counter! Simple but effective!
ALBERT MORDECAI:
It wasn’t pretty but it works! It’ll be interesting to see how Matt’s ankle is after that.
Both men come back to their feet, AJ shakes some feeling back into his leg, as Pulver is clearly favoring his ankle. AJ advances on Pulver first, piefacing him. Pulver turns him back with a palm strike- AJ slaps him across the face! Pulver comes nose to nose with AJ and rails in a forearm! AJ steps forward and returns the favor and Pulver gives one back, and AJ returns with a thudding shot! Pulver staggers, but returns another one! AJ shakes his head, and steps forward blasting Pulver with a European Uppercut that rocks him! Pulver goes down backwards but holds himself up on the ropes!
TIM FLOSS:
Down goes Pulver! He looks hurt!
ALBERT MORDECAI:
This is the exact opposite of what Pulver needs to be doing! He’s giving up 30 pounds here, he should not be trading with AJ! He’s letting the frustration of losing the belt get to him!
AJ swaggers forward on the man who took the belt from him, grabbing him by the chin- Pulver grabs the arm- Armbar through the ropes! The referee counts and Pulver breaks it, seemingly frustrated at himself for taking the low road, but begins walking down AJ with hard kicks into the arm! AJ is noticeably wincing as the boot connects! AJ catches one, and shakes his head at his rival- Dragonscrew leg whip! Pulver goes down clutching his injured ankle and knee!
TIM FLOSS:
This has been a seesaw from the opening bell!! These men are willing to go through hell to get the chance to take back the World’s Heavyweight Championship!
ALBERT MORDECAI:
This can’t go on much longer, not at this rate they’re hurting bad!
AJ is still on the mat too, shaking feeling into his arm, he pulls Pulver to his feet over towards the corner, before Snap Suplexing him with the back of his knees bouncing off the turnbuckles! AJ winces but pulls Pulver back up and scoop slams him much the same manner! Pulver rolls on the mat clutching his knee in pain! AJ grabs his foot, drilling it back into the mat with a Knee-DT! Rolls it over- Into the Wrinkle in Time! Pulver clutches at his head as AJ shouts at him to tap!
TIM FLOSS:
Turnabout’s fair play! Matt’s in some serious trouble!
ALBERT MORDECAI:
I don’t think Matt’s going to give it up though! He’d rather die than tap out! He’s not going to give up his shot to get that belt back! He knows this hold better than anyone else!
Matt is struggling towards the bottom rope! He’s fingertips away… AJ pulls him back center! Pulver raises his hand up! It comes down- NO! He stops himself, Pulver grabs AJ’s leg- He rolls over! Heel Hook!
TIM FLOSS:
Fantastic counter from Matt Wrestling! Now he’s got Knight in serious trouble!
ALBERT MORDECAI:
That’s what Matt Pulver does better than anyone else! Give him any opening he will take it and make you regret it!
AJ is running his hands through his hair, stifling a pained shout! Pulver wrenches on the hold with all his might! AJ leans in staring down Pulver gritting his teeth as Pulver wrenches back further! AJ grabs his bodysuit, trying to pull Pulver towards him to alleviate the pressure! Pulver starts driving his elbow into AJ’s knee! AJ loses his grip! He starts rolling to the ropes… Almost there…. He’s got ‘em! Pulver lets go with clear disappointment!
TIM FLOSS:
So close! AJ got out by the skin on his teeth, but he’s still in danger.
ALBERT MORDECAI:
He’s pulling himself up, and Pulver is sizing him up…
AJ steps forward off the ropes, Pulver cuts him off with a basement drop kick to Knight’s bad leg! He locks in the triangle choke! AJ’s in trouble again! He tries pushing himself over, like he did earlier but his leg doesn’t have the strength! AJ tries to lift Pulver, but his arm gives out… AJ’s starting to fade! It’s so close Pulver can taste it! He’s starting to slow, but with one last burst of energy he gets his toes on the bottom rope! The ref pulls Pulver off! Matt raises his hand thinking he’s won but the ref points to AJ’s foot, Matt drops to his knees clutching his hair in frustration, slapping the mat!
TIM FLOSS:
If he just stays on him he’s got this won! AJ’s out!
Knight looks worse for wear, as he pulls himself to his feet. Pulver hammerlocks his arm, looking for Matt Trap II- AJ twists free, wrestling Matt down to the ground looking for the Fujiwara armbar, but Pulver rolls out of it immediately, attempting a running clothesline on AJ who ducks causing Pulver to hit the ropes AJ attempts a roaring elbow! Pulver ducks it! He grabs a waist lock! Runs him into the ropes O’Connor Roll- Pulls him back to his feet- Chaos Theo- AJ gets a drop toe hold! AJ rolls across the back of Pulver- Into the Templar Stretch!
TIM FLOSS:
Amazing counters! How are they still going at this pace!?
ALBERT MORDECAI:
These are two of the most resilient wrestlers on the planet!
Pulver is in trouble now! He begins army crawling to the ropes! He’s close… AJ puts his foot out, and rolls it back center! Pulver continues with the momentum, rolling them to their feet! GANNOSUKE CLUTCH!
1…
2…
3!!!!
WAIT!!! NO! AJ just narrowly gets the shoulder up!
Pulver grabs the arms! He’s looking for the Pulverizer- No AJ steps over before he can hook it in, keeps ahold of Matt’s arms pulls him up to his knees, and drives his knee unprotected into the chin of his opponent! Back into the Templar Stretch!
TIM FLOSS:
He’s been looking for that Gannosuke Clutch all night, but it wasn’t enough here!
ALBERT MORDECAI:
They know each other so well, it’s been one hell of a match, counter upon counter! I don’t know what they have left.
The ref checks Pulver, but the moment he feels the ref touch his arm he pulls it away! Slowly but surely he again starts pulling himself to the ropes… AJ starts lacing in forearms, but Pulver’s having none of it, he’s still going for it! He claws his way closer… AJ transitions into a Front Chancery! He’s throwing hard knees at the top of Pulver’s head… He’s almost out! AJ transitions back into the hold! Pulver reaches out! He crawls just a bit closer… His hand is inches from the rope…
AND THE BELL RINGS!!!
TIM FLOSS:
What? What happened?
Pulver turns to the ref arguing that he didn’t tap and was still okay to continue, AJ’s reaction is totally different, sitting with his head in his hands. The referee explains it to Pulver before he conveys the message to Albert Mordecai.
ALBERT MORDECAI:
Fans, we have a draw! They have hit the 30 minute time limit for the match!
Pulver is clearly disappointed with this outcome rolling to the floor, AJ’s still on his knees as the fans give a standing ovation to this match. AJ starts fiercely shaking his head before procuring a microphone and rolling back into the ring…
AJ KNIGHT:
No! It’s not ending like that! I’m not letting the clock steal my victory! Not tonight!
Masaaki Sano appears ringside, almost as if drawn out by AJ’s monologue, Pulver stops his exit, listening to this as AJ continues.
AJ KNIGHT:
What do you guys think?! Huh Fukuoka, do you want a winner tonight?
The fans applaud.
AJ KNIGHT:
5 more minutes Sano! That’s all I need to finish this thing!
Camera shifts to Sano looking sternly into the ring. He is standing alongside officials from Lion’s Road Pro-Wrestling. The fellows are engaged in discussion. Pulver is standing just outside the ring with his hands on his hips as AJ paces stands inside motion for Pulver to come back in.
And then…
AJ’s dropped by a chair across the back! The camera pans up revealing…
TIM FLOSS:
BEN CHRENSHAW! BEN CHRENSHAW! BEN CHRENSHAW! MY GAWD! MY GAWD!
ALBERT MORDECAI:
Folks, it’s the former MAX Heavyweight Champion Ben Chrenshaw! What’s he doing here?!
Chrenshaw continues the assault, before lining up another shot wrapping the chair around his head! AJ is busted open! Pulver hits the ring and chases Chrenshaw off! Ringside attendants check on AJ, the doctor is waving off the overtime before it starts! Pulver is livid! AJ is being helped out, but pushes free of the ringside attendants and grabs a microphone
AJ KNIGHT:
Ben! When we get back stateside I want your ass in the ring!
Chrenshaw shakes his head and grabs another microphone.
BEN CHRENSHAW:
AJ, if we’re doing this, it happens on my terms. What I want AJ is the World’s Heavyweight Championship that should have been mine! The only way I fight you is if you put your title shot on the line!
Pulver grabs the mic AJ dropped.
MATT PULVER:
No way am I letting you cheat me out of this opportunity Ben! This was my chance tonight, so if anyone gets that shot it should be me! I’m done waiting in line!
AJ cuts him off -
AJ KNIGHT:
You know what? Bring the whole damn family! I’ll beat both your asses!
He spikes the mic and storms out as Ben and Matt stare each other down.
Due to the length of the #1 contender’s match, we regret to inform you that we only have room enough for the highlights of the King of Lions World’s Heavyweight Championship bout between champion David Troy and the challenger Billy Danielson.
The Fukuoka crowd was quite receptive to the World's Heavyweight Champion, David Troy as he raised his arms at the ring introductions. Billy Danielson's reaction was less so, but much higher pitched - clearly the ladies in the audience were big fans of his physique. Danielson gave a flex to loud "BILLY!" calls before the referee called for the bell. Obviously, Danielson tried to grapple right out of the gate and avoid becoming a test bag for Troy's kickboxing skills but leg kicks kept him at bay... until they didn't. Danielson grabbed a leg and piefaced Troy, taking him to the mat. The World's Champion tried to keep a secure guard, but the challenger broke through into half guard and popped off some punches. As he tried to advance into side control, Troy slipped out and got his feet. He tried to punt Danielson in the ribs but he rolled out before it could connect. Troy walked over and held the ropes open for Billy, inviting him back in. Danielson countered by yelling at the referee to back Troy up, then grabbed a water bottle from a young boy before shooing a timekeeper out of his chair and taking a seat. To his credit, Troy didn't bite at this and he sat down cross legged in the middle of the ring.
With the count at fifteen, Danielson got up and headed back to the ring. Troy remained seated, but Danielson grabbed the referee and told him to control the champion - serving as a distraction for Billy to chuck the water bottle at the champ. Danielson hurriedly made his way through the ropes and slammed his forearm into Troy's head as he got back to a vertical base. From there, he slapped on a side headlock with vicious intent - forcing Troy down to the mat. A couple minutes passed, Danielson showboating in between Troy's attempts to escape. The fans called out with shrieks of "DAVID!" who calculated Danielson's next move wisely, pretending to try and escape and letting Danielson showboat. Troy fired up and shoved him into the ropes. On the return, Troy went for the Blazing Star Strike but Danielson held onto the ropes and left the ring again!
This time, Troy wasn't so willing to wait. He got up and slide out of the ring, Danielson took notice and lapped around the ring before diving in. Troy faked him out by leaping up onto the apron on the adjacent side and slung himself underneath the bottom rope - driving his feet into Billy with a baseball slide. Troy grabbed Danielson and began unleashing some clinch knees with the challenger groggily trying to defend, Troy pushed him back against the ropes and nailed an inverted facebreaker stomp! The Sole Food was good for a two!
Troy grabbed Danielson from behind as he tried to get back up, but Danielson lunged for the ropes. Troy struck him with a couple forearms to the back, then re-locked his hands around the challenger's waist for a German suplex. Danielson managed to kick at the ropes, twisting himself enough that he landed on Troy's head as he delivered the move. With the champion stunned, Danielson had a chance to recuperate from the prior strikes. The challenger rose to his feet, then drove a knee down hard across Troy's forehead! Troy rolled away in pain, Danielson took another moment to recover before yanking Troy to his feet. Danielson slung Troy into the ropes, then on the return delivered a flap jack that wow'd the crowd with the height it got. Troy's body made a thunderous sound as it hit the mat. The champion immediately went to all fours and the GOAT started sizing him up...
We now take you to the finish...
TIM FLOSS:
Great series of counters between the two of them! Pulver locks on The Wrinkle in Time! AJ knows this hold well!
ALBERT MORDECAI:
Look at AJ’s face! This is his former best friend’s hold, and that still has to be a sore spot for AJ! That’s got to get in his head!
AJ’s face is the very picture of intensity! He grits his teeth as he looks up at his former tag partner! Pulver looks over his shoulder as he sees a look of utter disdain on the face of the Crusader! He wrenches back with all his might! AJ realizes he’s caught in the center of the ring, and grabs the foot of Pulver… And wrenches it abruptly to the side! Pulver falls to the mat with a stifled groan of pain!
TIM FLOSS:
Brutal counter! Simple but effective!
ALBERT MORDECAI:
It wasn’t pretty but it works! It’ll be interesting to see how Matt’s ankle is after that.
Both men come back to their feet, AJ shakes some feeling back into his leg, as Pulver is clearly favoring his ankle. AJ advances on Pulver first, piefacing him. Pulver turns him back with a palm strike- AJ slaps him across the face! Pulver comes nose to nose with AJ and rails in a forearm! AJ steps forward and returns the favor and Pulver gives one back, and AJ returns with a thudding shot! Pulver staggers, but returns another one! AJ shakes his head, and steps forward blasting Pulver with a European Uppercut that rocks him! Pulver goes down backwards but holds himself up on the ropes!
TIM FLOSS:
Down goes Pulver! He looks hurt!
ALBERT MORDECAI:
This is the exact opposite of what Pulver needs to be doing! He’s giving up 30 pounds here, he should not be trading with AJ! He’s letting the frustration of losing the belt get to him!
AJ swaggers forward on the man who took the belt from him, grabbing him by the chin- Pulver grabs the arm- Armbar through the ropes! The referee counts and Pulver breaks it, seemingly frustrated at himself for taking the low road, but begins walking down AJ with hard kicks into the arm! AJ is noticeably wincing as the boot connects! AJ catches one, and shakes his head at his rival- Dragonscrew leg whip! Pulver goes down clutching his injured ankle and knee!
TIM FLOSS:
This has been a seesaw from the opening bell!! These men are willing to go through hell to get the chance to take back the World’s Heavyweight Championship!
ALBERT MORDECAI:
This can’t go on much longer, not at this rate they’re hurting bad!
AJ is still on the mat too, shaking feeling into his arm, he pulls Pulver to his feet over towards the corner, before Snap Suplexing him with the back of his knees bouncing off the turnbuckles! AJ winces but pulls Pulver back up and scoop slams him much the same manner! Pulver rolls on the mat clutching his knee in pain! AJ grabs his foot, drilling it back into the mat with a Knee-DT! Rolls it over- Into the Wrinkle in Time! Pulver clutches at his head as AJ shouts at him to tap!
TIM FLOSS:
Turnabout’s fair play! Matt’s in some serious trouble!
ALBERT MORDECAI:
I don’t think Matt’s going to give it up though! He’d rather die than tap out! He’s not going to give up his shot to get that belt back! He knows this hold better than anyone else!
Matt is struggling towards the bottom rope! He’s fingertips away… AJ pulls him back center! Pulver raises his hand up! It comes down- NO! He stops himself, Pulver grabs AJ’s leg- He rolls over! Heel Hook!
TIM FLOSS:
Fantastic counter from Matt Wrestling! Now he’s got Knight in serious trouble!
ALBERT MORDECAI:
That’s what Matt Pulver does better than anyone else! Give him any opening he will take it and make you regret it!
AJ is running his hands through his hair, stifling a pained shout! Pulver wrenches on the hold with all his might! AJ leans in staring down Pulver gritting his teeth as Pulver wrenches back further! AJ grabs his bodysuit, trying to pull Pulver towards him to alleviate the pressure! Pulver starts driving his elbow into AJ’s knee! AJ loses his grip! He starts rolling to the ropes… Almost there…. He’s got ‘em! Pulver lets go with clear disappointment!
TIM FLOSS:
So close! AJ got out by the skin on his teeth, but he’s still in danger.
ALBERT MORDECAI:
He’s pulling himself up, and Pulver is sizing him up…
AJ steps forward off the ropes, Pulver cuts him off with a basement drop kick to Knight’s bad leg! He locks in the triangle choke! AJ’s in trouble again! He tries pushing himself over, like he did earlier but his leg doesn’t have the strength! AJ tries to lift Pulver, but his arm gives out… AJ’s starting to fade! It’s so close Pulver can taste it! He’s starting to slow, but with one last burst of energy he gets his toes on the bottom rope! The ref pulls Pulver off! Matt raises his hand thinking he’s won but the ref points to AJ’s foot, Matt drops to his knees clutching his hair in frustration, slapping the mat!
TIM FLOSS:
If he just stays on him he’s got this won! AJ’s out!
Knight looks worse for wear, as he pulls himself to his feet. Pulver hammerlocks his arm, looking for Matt Trap II- AJ twists free, wrestling Matt down to the ground looking for the Fujiwara armbar, but Pulver rolls out of it immediately, attempting a running clothesline on AJ who ducks causing Pulver to hit the ropes AJ attempts a roaring elbow! Pulver ducks it! He grabs a waist lock! Runs him into the ropes O’Connor Roll- Pulls him back to his feet- Chaos Theo- AJ gets a drop toe hold! AJ rolls across the back of Pulver- Into the Templar Stretch!
TIM FLOSS:
Amazing counters! How are they still going at this pace!?
ALBERT MORDECAI:
These are two of the most resilient wrestlers on the planet!
Pulver is in trouble now! He begins army crawling to the ropes! He’s close… AJ puts his foot out, and rolls it back center! Pulver continues with the momentum, rolling them to their feet! GANNOSUKE CLUTCH!
1…
2…
3!!!!
WAIT!!! NO! AJ just narrowly gets the shoulder up!
Pulver grabs the arms! He’s looking for the Pulverizer- No AJ steps over before he can hook it in, keeps ahold of Matt’s arms pulls him up to his knees, and drives his knee unprotected into the chin of his opponent! Back into the Templar Stretch!
TIM FLOSS:
He’s been looking for that Gannosuke Clutch all night, but it wasn’t enough here!
ALBERT MORDECAI:
They know each other so well, it’s been one hell of a match, counter upon counter! I don’t know what they have left.
The ref checks Pulver, but the moment he feels the ref touch his arm he pulls it away! Slowly but surely he again starts pulling himself to the ropes… AJ starts lacing in forearms, but Pulver’s having none of it, he’s still going for it! He claws his way closer… AJ transitions into a Front Chancery! He’s throwing hard knees at the top of Pulver’s head… He’s almost out! AJ transitions back into the hold! Pulver reaches out! He crawls just a bit closer… His hand is inches from the rope…
AND THE BELL RINGS!!!
TIM FLOSS:
What? What happened?
Pulver turns to the ref arguing that he didn’t tap and was still okay to continue, AJ’s reaction is totally different, sitting with his head in his hands. The referee explains it to Pulver before he conveys the message to Albert Mordecai.
ALBERT MORDECAI:
Fans, we have a draw! They have hit the 30 minute time limit for the match!
Pulver is clearly disappointed with this outcome rolling to the floor, AJ’s still on his knees as the fans give a standing ovation to this match. AJ starts fiercely shaking his head before procuring a microphone and rolling back into the ring…
AJ KNIGHT:
No! It’s not ending like that! I’m not letting the clock steal my victory! Not tonight!
Masaaki Sano appears ringside, almost as if drawn out by AJ’s monologue, Pulver stops his exit, listening to this as AJ continues.
AJ KNIGHT:
What do you guys think?! Huh Fukuoka, do you want a winner tonight?
The fans applaud.
AJ KNIGHT:
5 more minutes Sano! That’s all I need to finish this thing!
Camera shifts to Sano looking sternly into the ring. He is standing alongside officials from Lion’s Road Pro-Wrestling. The fellows are engaged in discussion. Pulver is standing just outside the ring with his hands on his hips as AJ paces stands inside motion for Pulver to come back in.
And then…
AJ’s dropped by a chair across the back! The camera pans up revealing…
TIM FLOSS:
BEN CHRENSHAW! BEN CHRENSHAW! BEN CHRENSHAW! MY GAWD! MY GAWD!
ALBERT MORDECAI:
Folks, it’s the former MAX Heavyweight Champion Ben Chrenshaw! What’s he doing here?!
Chrenshaw continues the assault, before lining up another shot wrapping the chair around his head! AJ is busted open! Pulver hits the ring and chases Chrenshaw off! Ringside attendants check on AJ, the doctor is waving off the overtime before it starts! Pulver is livid! AJ is being helped out, but pushes free of the ringside attendants and grabs a microphone
AJ KNIGHT:
Ben! When we get back stateside I want your ass in the ring!
Chrenshaw shakes his head and grabs another microphone.
BEN CHRENSHAW:
AJ, if we’re doing this, it happens on my terms. What I want AJ is the World’s Heavyweight Championship that should have been mine! The only way I fight you is if you put your title shot on the line!
Pulver grabs the mic AJ dropped.
MATT PULVER:
No way am I letting you cheat me out of this opportunity Ben! This was my chance tonight, so if anyone gets that shot it should be me! I’m done waiting in line!
AJ cuts him off -
AJ KNIGHT:
You know what? Bring the whole damn family! I’ll beat both your asses!
He spikes the mic and storms out as Ben and Matt stare each other down.
KING OF LIONS WORLD'S HEAVYWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP:
David Troy (c) vs. Billy Danielson
The Fukuoka crowd was quite receptive to the World's Heavyweight Champion, David Troy as he raised his arms at the ring introductions. Billy Danielson's reaction was less so, but much higher pitched - clearly the ladies in the audience were big fans of his physique. Danielson gave a flex to loud "BILLY!" calls before the referee called for the bell. Obviously, Danielson tried to grapple right out of the gate and avoid becoming a test bag for Troy's kickboxing skills but leg kicks kept him at bay... until they didn't. Danielson grabbed a leg and piefaced Troy, taking him to the mat. The World's Champion tried to keep a secure guard, but the challenger broke through into half guard and popped off some punches. As he tried to advance into side control, Troy slipped out and got his feet. He tried to punt Danielson in the ribs but he rolled out before it could connect. Troy walked over and held the ropes open for Billy, inviting him back in. Danielson countered by yelling at the referee to back Troy up, then grabbed a water bottle from a young boy before shooing a timekeeper out of his chair and taking a seat. To his credit, Troy didn't bite at this and he sat down cross legged in the middle of the ring.
With the count at fifteen, Danielson got up and headed back to the ring. Troy remained seated, but Danielson grabbed the referee and told him to control the champion - serving as a distraction for Billy to chuck the water bottle at the champ. Danielson hurriedly made his way through the ropes and slammed his forearm into Troy's head as he got back to a vertical base. From there, he slapped on a side headlock with vicious intent - forcing Troy down to the mat. A couple minutes passed, Danielson showboating in between Troy's attempts to escape. The fans called out with shrieks of "DAVID!" who calculated Danielson's next move wisely, pretending to try and escape and letting Danielson showboat. Troy fired up and shoved him into the ropes. On the return, Troy went for the Blazing Star Strike but Danielson held onto the ropes and left the ring again!
This time, Troy wasn't so willing to wait. He got up and slide out of the ring, Danielson took notice and lapped around the ring before diving in. Troy faked him out by leaping up onto the apron on the adjacent side and slung himself underneath the bottom rope - driving his feet into Billy with a baseball slide. Troy grabbed Danielson and began unleashing some clinch knees with the challenger groggily trying to defend, Troy pushed him back against the ropes and nailed an inverted facebreaker stomp! The Sole Food was good for a two!
Troy grabbed Danielson from behind as he tried to get back up, but Danielson lunged for the ropes. Troy struck him with a couple forearms to the back, then re-locked his hands around the challenger's waist for a German suplex. Danielson managed to kick at the ropes, twisting himself enough that he landed on Troy's head as he delivered the move. With the champion stunned, Danielson had a chance to recuperate from the prior strikes. The challenger rose to his feet, then drove a knee down hard across Troy's forehead! Troy rolled away in pain, Danielson took another moment to recover before yanking Troy to his feet. Danielson slung Troy into the ropes, then on the return delivered a flap jack that wow'd the crowd with the height it got. Troy's body made a thunderous sound as it hit the mat. The champion immediately went to all fours and the GOAT started sizing him up...
We now take you to the finish...
Danielson stalks his prey, Troy gets to one knee and starts to turn around...
THINNING THE HER--
Troy shoves him away!
Danielson stops himself just short of the cor--
YAKUZA KICK!
Troy drops Danielson to his knees with his running big boot in the corner, then clutches the ropes to hold himself up. The challenger starts getting back up, but Troy grabs his arms...
FLASH BACKSLIDE!
1...
...
2... CAN'T HOLD HIM!
Danielson doesn't kick out so much as Troy just lost his center of balance on the pin, Danielson sloppily gets to his feet. Troy tries to set up the Russian leg sweep, which we know leads to the Octopus hold... but Danielson elbows out of it...
THINNING THE HERD!
The leaping cutter connects this time, but Danielson rolls the wrong way as he throws his arm over to make a cover. He realizes his mistake and corrects it, the referee counts...
1...
...
2...
...
2.9!
TIM FLOSS:
My gawd what a sequence we just saw there!
ALBERT MORDECAI:
Timmy, these two have been battling like crazy. I don’t think either one of them has much left!
Danielson can't help but shake his head, realizing he probably had the match in hand if he hadn't rolled the wrong way. Nonetheless, he marches on - he grabs Troy in a front chancery and tries to lift him high... but Troy cracks down with a knee to the skull. He wobbles his challenger, sending him staggering into the ropes. Troy runs up, cracks him with a forearm smash and then goes for an Irish whip - he gets reversed. Troy goes instead, Danielson goes for a lariat but Troy ducks and continues onto the ropes. Danielson leaps into a drop down, looking to trip Troy but the man known as Dynamite leaps up and jumps onto his back and scrambles around for a front face lock.
TIM FLOSS:
What’s this?!
Troy has the front face lock clamped in tight and… knee to the crown of Danielson’s head! Danielson tries to squirm away but Troy has the hold wrenched in tight and has spread his legs to stay in position.
THINNING THE HER--
Troy shoves him away!
Danielson stops himself just short of the cor--
YAKUZA KICK!
Troy drops Danielson to his knees with his running big boot in the corner, then clutches the ropes to hold himself up. The challenger starts getting back up, but Troy grabs his arms...
FLASH BACKSLIDE!
1...
...
2... CAN'T HOLD HIM!
Danielson doesn't kick out so much as Troy just lost his center of balance on the pin, Danielson sloppily gets to his feet. Troy tries to set up the Russian leg sweep, which we know leads to the Octopus hold... but Danielson elbows out of it...
THINNING THE HERD!
The leaping cutter connects this time, but Danielson rolls the wrong way as he throws his arm over to make a cover. He realizes his mistake and corrects it, the referee counts...
1...
...
2...
...
2.9!
TIM FLOSS:
My gawd what a sequence we just saw there!
ALBERT MORDECAI:
Timmy, these two have been battling like crazy. I don’t think either one of them has much left!
Danielson can't help but shake his head, realizing he probably had the match in hand if he hadn't rolled the wrong way. Nonetheless, he marches on - he grabs Troy in a front chancery and tries to lift him high... but Troy cracks down with a knee to the skull. He wobbles his challenger, sending him staggering into the ropes. Troy runs up, cracks him with a forearm smash and then goes for an Irish whip - he gets reversed. Troy goes instead, Danielson goes for a lariat but Troy ducks and continues onto the ropes. Danielson leaps into a drop down, looking to trip Troy but the man known as Dynamite leaps up and jumps onto his back and scrambles around for a front face lock.
TIM FLOSS:
What’s this?!
Troy has the front face lock clamped in tight and… knee to the crown of Danielson’s head! Danielson tries to squirm away but Troy has the hold wrenched in tight and has spread his legs to stay in position.
ALBERT MORDECAI:
Looks like he caught Danielson undefended. He’s got the hooks locked in tight on the front face lock, and spreading his legs makes it harder for Danielson to drag Troy.
TIM FLOSS:
Meaning what, Al?
Quick knee strike to the crown of the head! And Troy spreads the legs and gets grounded.
ALBERT MORDECAI:
That, Timmy.
Danielson reaches out with a foot for the ropes but he is at least a foot or two away – and Troy gets him with another knee strike to the head! Danielson is prone and has nowhere to go.
Another knee strike from Troy!
TIM FLOSS:
He’s loading up!
Danielson reaches out for the toe and…
Another knee strike!
The toe is just a few inches away…
Knee strike! Knee strike!
The foot falls to the mat, just barely grazing the rope as it falls!
The ref calls for the bell!
TIM FLOSS:
Folks, it looks like we have a referee stoppage. Billy Danielson was no longer in a position to defend himself after the repeated knees to the head.
ALBERT MORDECAI:
You’ve got to remember, Timmy, David Troy is an elite-level Muay Thai kickboxer. That man has knees that could cave in a tank!
David Troy can be seen getting up to his feet as the ringside attendants return the World’s Heavyweight Championship into his possession. With the belt slung over a shoulder, he smirks and raises a fist as the photographers surround him and the gold glitters in the flash of their cameras.
Looks like he caught Danielson undefended. He’s got the hooks locked in tight on the front face lock, and spreading his legs makes it harder for Danielson to drag Troy.
TIM FLOSS:
Meaning what, Al?
Quick knee strike to the crown of the head! And Troy spreads the legs and gets grounded.
ALBERT MORDECAI:
That, Timmy.
Danielson reaches out with a foot for the ropes but he is at least a foot or two away – and Troy gets him with another knee strike to the head! Danielson is prone and has nowhere to go.
Another knee strike from Troy!
TIM FLOSS:
He’s loading up!
Danielson reaches out for the toe and…
Another knee strike!
The toe is just a few inches away…
Knee strike! Knee strike!
The foot falls to the mat, just barely grazing the rope as it falls!
The ref calls for the bell!
TIM FLOSS:
Folks, it looks like we have a referee stoppage. Billy Danielson was no longer in a position to defend himself after the repeated knees to the head.
ALBERT MORDECAI:
You’ve got to remember, Timmy, David Troy is an elite-level Muay Thai kickboxer. That man has knees that could cave in a tank!
David Troy can be seen getting up to his feet as the ringside attendants return the World’s Heavyweight Championship into his possession. With the belt slung over a shoulder, he smirks and raises a fist as the photographers surround him and the gold glitters in the flash of their cameras.
... Whodunnit?!
After the show the scene got even more chaotic. Well, we thought that we’d thought the Go Gensai rumor was just that, as no gaijin got hurt this evening? Well, backstage we came across a beaten and bloodied Justin Seville laying in the hallway and reportedly needed to be taken to the hospital. Was this the work of Go Gensai? While, the Pale General was reportedly nowhere to be found. Sue Tsuboi’s detective work revealed a trail speckled in blood which led to the locker of – you guessed it – Go Gensai.
Is this truly the Pale General’s handiwork…?! Folks, we may never know the answer for sure, but it sure seems like it.
EXPEL THE BARBARIANS?!
After the show, GM Masaaki Sano took the podium in a manner like we’ve never seen him before. He discussed the aftermath of Pulver vs. Knight and went on a tirade about the severe level of in-fighting between the Lion’s Road fighters and how it has caused several shows to have lower-than-expected attendance. From Alexander Irvine’s antics, to AJ commandeering a microphone and begging for more time, to the sudden appearance of Ben Chrenshaw with a steel chair, Sano said definitively that he had enough of the Lion’s Road fighters on this tour and formally banned them from participation on 10/14! When pressed about tomorrow’s card, he said that the competition committee would have to work busily throughout the night to make the necessary changes and give the fans a final show of the tour of which they could be proud.
Moments after the announcement, it’s reported that MAX-J founder and owner Chikashi Enatsu approached Sano and the two exchanged heated words. Enatsu, proud of the fact that he was able to host the Danielson vs. Troy title fight, did not like Sano’s unilateral decision to pull the Lion’s Road fighters. However, Sano’s position as GM entitles him to do such a thing and it’s reported that Sano told him that while he was in charge of the roster, all of the fighters would have to play by his rules!
Folks, we know this is a lot to take in. But we’ll be reporting ‘round the clock to try and give you an update of 10/14 as soon as we find out!
- RECAP -
GAIJIN NO SPECIAL! ~ ATTACK OF THE CASTLE! Day 6
Date: 10/13/2018
Location: Yamato Athletic Plaza, Fukuoka, Japan
Attendance: 4,500 fans (90% capacity)
1. Frank Dylan James and Jack Tillman defeat Rafa Whatley and Justin Seville (11:58) via pinfall after FDJ uses a running face kick on Seville.
2. Jacob Hammerstein defeats David Gage (9:12) via submission with a Python Sleeper.
3. MAX vs. LION’S ROAD ~ Ultimate Finale!: Mike Musket defeats Alexander Irvine (13:41) via pinfall after a backdrop driver.
4. #1 Contender for King of Lions World’s Heavyweight Championship: AJ Knight versus Matt Pulver ends in a draw (30:00) when the time limit expires.
5. King of Lions World’s Heavyweight Championship: David Troy (c) defeats Billy Danielson (18:36) via referee stoppage (knees) (1st defense).