Live from Drake Track Stadium | Los Angeles, CA | Crowd Size: 13,500
SEGMENT ONE
We open with a shot of the packed arena at Drake Track Stadium on the UCLA Campus, the camera panning across an electrified sea of fans. The venue is sold-out, and the crowd is raucous. A countdown begins on the tron above the stage, and the audience joins in as the ticker counts backwards from five.
Crowd: Five! Four! Three! Two! One!
The opening video package fills the tron, showcasing the highlights and dramatic moments from AEW’s Season 2 finale, Retribution. The focus of the video is on the dominant rise of wrestling’s number one power couple, Sami Zayn and Megan Mouse-Zayn. As the video ends, the pyro explodes in a dazzling display of booms, lights and colors. The camera cuts to the broadcast booth where Kevin Kelly and Arn Anderson are sat, ready to kick off the show.
Kevin Kelly: Ladies and gentlemen, the wait is finally over! Welcome to the Season 3 premiere of All Elite Wrestling, and the official kick-off to the 7th Era of professional wrestling! I’m Kevin Kelly, alongside the legendary Arn Anderson, and we’re thrilled to bring you tonight’s action!
Arn Anderson: Kevin, the entire world is still reeling from the final stretch of the 6th Era. AEW Retribution was a night no one will ever forget. Megan Mouse shocked us all when she stood up from her wheelchair, snapping out of her vegetative state, and costing Splinter his career in the Total Anarchy: All Elite match against her husband, the BWM Inc. Chairman, Sami Zayn.
Kevin Kelly: And then, Arn, they shocked the world again when they sent in Armageddon to lay out MJF and Roman Reigns. Sami Zayn used his power to declare himself a participant in the match, stunning the audience as he walked out of Retribution with the AEW World Heavyweight Championship!
Arn Anderson: Since then, Kevin, Sami Zayn and Megan Mouse-Zayn have been without a doubt the most dominant duo in the industry. While other promotions offer the same tired “can they get along” trope between their leaders, Zayn and Mouse-Zayn are united and more powerful than ever.
Kevin Kelly: And with the World of Wrestling Draft and Starrcade shaking things up in AEW, we’ve got a huge card to celebrate our season premiere, as only BWM Inc. can provide. It’s going to be a night to remember!
The camera transitions from the broadcast booth to the ring, where Logan Paul stands with a microphone, ready to kick off a live, in-ring episode of Impaulsive!
Logan Paul: Ladies and gentlemen, welcome to a very special live episode of Impaulsive! to kick off the season premiere of AEW Dynamite! Tonight, we have a guest who has shocked the world with his controversial and unexpected victory at AEW Retribution. Please welcome the AEW World Heavyweight Champion and the Chairman of BWM Inc., Sami Zayn!
“World’s Apart” hits and Sami Zayn makes his way to the ring, the AEW World Heavyweight Championship snuggly around his waist. The audience boos, and Sami grins as if he’s pulled a fast one on everyone watching tonight. The music briefly stops and the lights flicker, and Sami looks irritated. He mouths something about the production crew being rusty from the break and continues down the aisle shaking his head. Sami enters the ring and extends his hand to Logan Paul, who denies the handshake and gets straight to it.
Logan Paul: First and foremost, as much as I hate to say it given how you accomplished it, I suppose congratulations are in order. You truly shocked the world. Everyone’s dying to know, what’s next for you and for BWM Inc.?
Sami Zayn: Logan, this is just the beginning of my master plan. With Megan by my side, there’s nothing we can’t achieve. I retired that old rat Splinter, he was no Master. My wife and I have added a second weekly show with the return of Chaos on Friday nights, and we’ve signed the hottest free agent in the world. And this is just what we’ve done during the offseason! This is going to be the greatest era yet, and AEW under my leadership will continue to dominate the wrestling world.
Logan Paul: Impressive words, Sami. But what happens with the World Championship? There are a lot of people wondering about that, myself and my best friend included.
Sami Zayn: I’m the boss, and I’ll know when someone is deserving of a title shot. This championship is the most prestigious prize in wrestling, and it will be defended when I see fit, against opponents who have truly earned it.
Logan Paul: Interesting that you say that, Sami, because we all saw you screw MJF out of that title. When are you going to give MJF a rematch?
Sami Zayn: [smirking] Logan, I think that you, and all these people here tonight and watching at home need to realize the time of MJF is over. He was a favorite under Benny Mouse, but my father-in-law’s taste wasn’t very good at the end, likely due to the dementia. MJF is played out, and AEW is all about establishing new stars.
Sami’s insults elicit boos from the crowd, and Paul straightens up and steps in to Sami’s face.
Logan Paul: That’s the last bit of shit you’re going to talk about my friend. You’re lucky I’m a professional and that I’ve got a job to do, so let’s move on. You’ve been hyping this big signing for weeks… tell us, who is it?
Sami Zayn: Logan, I’ve signed the hottest free agent in the business, the current IWGP World Champion. This signing is the future of the industry. Imagine combining the aerial skills of Dragonfly, Krusader, and Sunfire with the technical prowess of Splinter and Kurt Angle. This person has charisma and is going to be a major player in 2024.
Logan Paul: [impatiently] Well, you have our attention. Get on with it. Who is it, Sami?
Sami Zayn: Over the break, Megan and I flew to Japan, and we met with this man… [turning from the hard cam and pointing to the tron] Take a look.
The arena lights dim, and the tron lights up. The scene opens with a dark arena, cast in shadows from an overhead spotlight. Slowly, the camera moves in to reveal a silhouette of a figure in the ring, with rapid fire shots of breath-taking aerial moves as the music builds dramatically
Narrator: [voiceover] Brace yourself…
Smash cut to a shot of the AEW logo, followed by a quick series of clips from recent AEW shows, highlighting the in-ring action and the excitement and energy of the crowd.
Narrator: [voiceover] For the biggest signing of the year…
The screen fades to black. A heartbeat sound effect plays, growing louder. The heartbeat quickens, beating louder until it suddenly stops. The screen explodes with the text: “The Aerial Assassin.”
Cut to slow-motion footage of Will Ospreay in IWGP in Japan, executing a stunning aerial maneuver as fans erupt in the background.
Narrator: [voiceover] The current IWGP Heavyweight Champion…
Cut to a close-up of Will Ospreay holding the IWGP Heavyweight Championship belt high above his head, a look of determination on his face.
Cut to a clip of Ospreay standing in a dark alley, illuminated partially by a street light in the distance. He turns slowly as he looks directly into the camera, his words dripping with intensity.
Will Ospreay: Bruv, you’ve never seen anything like me. The Aerial Assassin is coming to America, and I’m ready to take what’s mine.
Cut to a montage of Ospreay in action, showcasing his agility, strength, and athleticism. Clips include him performing high-flying moves, locking in submission holds, and delivering powerful strikes.
Narrator: [voiceover] On August 18…
Cut to a quick shot of the Aftershock poster and PPV logo.
Narrator: [voiceover] At Aftershock, Will Ospreay makes his AEW debut.
Cut back to Opsreay, now in the center of a ring in any empty arena.
Will Ospreay: The revolution will be televised.
The screen fades to black, with the AEW logo and the words “Aftershock – August 18” appearing once more. The vignette ends with the sound of a roaring crowd, and the screen fades to black.
As the arena lights come back up and the tron dims, the camera returns to the ring where Sami Zayn stands with a satisfied smile.
Logan Paul: Wow, Sami. Will Ospreay is definitely a big deal. But let’s not forget, there are a lot of guys here who are hungry. If Ospreay thinks he’s coming from Japan to a hero’s welcome from the roster here in AEW, he’s in for a shock. These guys aren’t giving up their spots to anyone, myself included.
Sami Zayn: [smirking] Competition is good, Logan. It keeps everyone on their toes.
Logan Paul: Let’s pivot, because there’s one more thing I want to ask you about. I want to talk about the recent drama with you and Xolo Mariduena.
Sami Zayn: [feigning ignorance] Who? Oh, you mean Diaz? Look, my lawyers have advised me not to discuss it, but if you want a candid answer, Diaz is an entitled little shit who’s refusing to do business.
Suddenly, the crowd at Drake Track Stadium erupts as MJF’s music hits. Sami Zayn’s confident demeanor instantly shifts to panic as MJF walks out to the stage, greeted by a hero’s welcome from the crowd.
Sami Zayn: [screaming] You’ve come far enough, MJF! If you come any closer, I’ll suspend you without pay and have you arrested for trespassing!
MJF: [smirking] Relax, Sami. I’m not here to attack you tonight, you pussy. I want you to live in fear. But trust me, I’m going to deal with you for what you did, and I’m taking back what you stole from me at Retribution.
MJF turns his attention to Logan Paul.
MJF: Logan, I can’t believe you’d even agree to do this interview. I thought we were friends.
Logan Paul: [trying to interject] MJF, I agreed to this for you, to get to the bottom of what happened at Retribution—
MJF: [cutting him off] Save it, Logan. Everyone knows what happened at Retribution. I got screwed.
Sami Zayn: [mocking] Boohoo, MJF. Are you going to threaten to put yourself in the draft again like the last time you didn’t get your way? We’re a long way from June… Let’s face it, you’re just a spoiled rich kid who’s had everything handed to him his whole life, especially here in AEW. You need to learn you don’t always get what you want.
MJF: [laughing] That’s funny, Sami. Because tonight, I got exactly what I wanted. Ya know, I’ve been following this Mariduena drama, and it’s sad. You’ve inherited the number one wrestling company in the world, a company I’ve carried on my shoulders, and yet you want to copy the success of another company with celebrity characters?
Sami Zayn: [starting to protest] Now wait a minute—
MJF: [interrupting] Shut up, Sami. I don’t want to hear it… and neither does anyone in the crowd here tonight in Los Angeles… which just so happens to be a short drive from Reseda…
The crowd erupts as MJF smirks, starring Sami down. Sami looks visibly shaken as the lights suddenly dim, the arena illuminated only by the phone flashlights of the audience as a familiar guitar strain fills the arena.
The crowd goes wild as the opening beats of Joe Esposito’s “You’re the Best Around” blare through the speakers. The frenzy intensifies as Johnny Lawrence struts out onto the stage! The audience chants “Holy Shit!” as Lawrence approaches MJF.
Johnny Lawrence shakes MJF’s hand with a confident smirk, then charges to the ring with energy and intensity. The crowd is going insane as Johnny slides into the ring and starts twirling with roundhouse kicks, displaying his martial arts prowess as he tries to take Zayn’s head off. Sami Zayn, eyes wide with panic, quickly jumps out of the ring and retreats through the audience. Logan Paul, looking slightly bewildered but amused, approaches Johnny Lawrence as Zayn watches horrified from the fifth row behind the announcers, security at his side.
Logan Paul: [grinning] Johnny fuckin’ Lawrence, huh? Didn’t think I’d live to see the day. What are you doing here, man?
Johnny Lawrence: [serious] That Muslim is giving my pupil a hard time. I’m here to show him and the rest of these punks what real fighting looks like. [sizes Logan up] Aren’t you the guy from YouTube?
Logan Paul: [bewildered] Aren’t you the guy from the 80s movies?
Johnny steps in closer, standing face to face with Logan Paul.
Logan Paul: [laughing] Oh, come on. What are you going to do, wax me off? You do realize this isn’t the All Valley Tournament, right?
Johnny Lawrence: [glaring at Paul] Look man, my beef isn’t with you, but I won’t hesitate before kicking your ass. Besides, don’t you have a TikTok dance to film?
Logan Paul: [raising his hands in mock surrender] Alright, alright, I get it. No need to go all Cobra Kai on me, even I think Sami’s an asshole. I’m done with this episode of Impaulsive! anyways.
Logan bails out of the ring, walking backwards up the ramp with a playful grin, leaving Lawrence in the ring. As he gets to the top of the stage, he shoots MJF a pleading look, but MJF walks off as Logan’s trying to talk to him. Seconds later, Paul also disappears through the curtain as the camera turns back to the ring.
Johnny Lawrence, now fully in the moment, starts mimicking his iconic moves, even throwing in a few comedic gestures. The crowd’s excitement reaches a peak as they chant his name, welcoming him to AEW.
Inside High Minded’s locker room, the atmosphere is unusually quiet. Midget Hogan and Lady Love sit on a plush couch together, holding hands. The rest of the group is out, leaving them alone. Hogan looks at Lady Love with a mix of happiness and concern.
Midget Hogan: [smiling] I’m so happy you’re recovered from the attack by the Usos. I’m really sorry you got put in danger because of our feud with the Bloodline.
Lady Love: (squeezing his hand) There’s nowhere in the world I’d rather be, Midgey.
Hogan looks off, appearing to be deep in thought. Lady Love notices his distant expression and scoots closer, gently grabbing his head and turning it to face her. She speaks slowly, her voice booming.
Lady Love: What’s wrong? You’ve seemed a little distant lately.
Midget Hogan: [sighing] It’s just… I wasn’t thrilled with your decision to flash the world at Starrcade.
Lady Love: [firmly] It’s my body, my choice. I wasn’t trying to upset you, I was trying to honor one of the best women’s wrestlers in the world.
Midget Hogan: [nodding] It’s fine, really. But there’s something else on my mind.
Lady Love looks at him with concern, her eyes searching his.
Midget Hogan: I spoke to your ex-husband, Ric Venom, after Starrcade. He’s also a little person, and he warned me that you’d break my heart. The guys have suggested that maybe you have a fetish for little people, and I’m worried you don’t love me for who I am.
Lady Love shushes him, pulling him into a comforting embrace, sandwiching his head in her bosom as she strokes his back.
Lady Love: Ric was a very long time ago, Midgey. I don’t want to talk about him now. I love you for you, and that should be enough.
Midget Hogan: [muffled, his head still in her breasts] Sorry, I just… I’m happy to have you back. Nothing else matters to me.
They start to kiss and make out on the couch. The door swings open, and the rest of the group—Hulk Hogan, Matt Riddle, and the Outsiders—walk in, groaning and feigning disgust.
Hulk Hogan: [covering his eyes] Aw, come on, brother! Get a room!
Matt Riddle: [laughing] Totally gnarly, dude. Save some for the rest of us.
Randy Savage: Ohhhhhhh yeaaaahh!
Kevin Nash: [smirking] Looks like you two are getting cozy.
Scott Hall: Hey yo, lovebirds, you mind keeping it PG in here?
The scene ends as the group shares a laugh as Midget Hogan suggests they’re all just jealous.
Back at ringside, Arn Anderson and Kevin Kelly are seated at the commentary desk, discussing the events that have just transpired
Kevin Kelly: Whatever Ric Venom told Midget Hogan, he should take to heart because Lady Love will ruin him.
Arn Anderson: [chuckling] Kelly, you’re just another lover scorned. I’m happy for the couple.
Kevin Kelly: [sighing] Well, Dynamite is off to an explosive start! We’ve just seen Sami Zayn, Logan Paul, the imminent arrival of Will Ospreay, MJF, and the shocking appearance of Johnny Lawrence. And we’re just getting started!
Arn Anderson: That’s right, Kevin. It’s been an unprecedented start to the season, and we’re just getting started. Up next, The Acclaimed look to solidify their championship reign as they put the titles on the line against the greatest tag team of all time, the Harlem Turtles!
Kevin Kelly: And you know FTR will be watching closely. They wasted no time getting involved in the tag division at Starrcade, promising they were coming for the belts.
Arn Anderson: FTR will be in action this Friday on Chaos, but for now, let’s send it to Jane Mouse for the introductions.
Match #1 | AEW World Tag Team Championship
The Acclaimed (C) (Max Caster & Anthony Bowens) vs. The Harlem Turtles (Stevie R & Booker D)
As the Harlem Turtles make their way to the ring, Arn Anderson and Kevin Kelly discuss Splinter’s loss at Retribution, in which Sami Zayn hid his broken ankle from the referee, screwing Splinter out of 5 points in the Total Anarchy: All Elite match that would have put him ahead and ended Zayn’s tyranny. The beat drops and the Acclaimed appears, and Max Caster leads the way out of the gorilla position with a microphone.
Max Caster: Yo, sometimes you gotta pop out and show ’em,
Leave ’em outta breath like Biden at the podium.
No debate, Harlem Turtles, we stoppin’ it here.
I’mma kill you like Zayn did Splinter’s career.
And FTR, y’all a bunch of pussies.
When we see you, we say, “Hello kitty.”
So start clappin’ when you hear our names
Because y’all know everyone loves the Acclaimed.
Anthony Bowens: Los Angeles… the Acclaimed have arrived!
The bell sounds and Caster and Stevie R. start things off, circling one another before locking up in the center of the ring. Stevie R. gains the upper hand, pushing Max into the corner. Caster charges at him and Stevie R. checks him with a shoulder block, sending him to the mat. Caster gets back to his feet, shaking off the move and coming back with a series of punches. He whips Stevie into the ropes and catches him with a dropkick, sending him sprawling.
Caster tags in Bowens, who comes in with a series of kicks and punches before Stevie reaches his corner and tags in Booker D., who charges in with a clothesline that takes Bowens down. Bowens is back to his feet and charges at him, but Booker catches him with a spinebuster followed by a cover for two.
Bowens fights back, delivering a series of strikes to Booker D. He whips Booker into the corner and tags Caster back in. They hit a double suplex, and Caster goes for the pin. Booker D. kicks out at two.
The match continues with back-and-forth action. The Harlem Turtles show their veteran experience with quick tags and powerful moves, while The Acclaimed use their speed and agility to stay in the fight.
In a pivotal moment, Stevie R. and Booker D. set up for their finishing move, the 3-D. They lift Caster for the move, but Caster manages to escape in mid-air, slipping out and landing behind Stevie R.
With the referee momentarily distracted by Bowens arguing with Booker D., Caster takes the opportunity to hit Stevie R. with a low blow, dropping him to his knees.
Caster quickly climbs to the top rope and leaps off, hitting his finishing move, the Mic Drop on Stevie R. Bowens drills Booker with a DDT on the outside as Caster makes the cover and the ref counts the three!
The crowd erupts with a mix of boos and cheers as The Acclaimed celebrate their victory. Bowens and Caster embrace, holding their titles high as the Harlem Turtles roll out of the ring, frustrated.
Winners: The Acclaimed
Match Time: 8:56
SEGMENT TWO
Smoke fills the air in a dimly lit bar that has a rustic charm. The soft hum of conversation and clinking glasses is heard in the background, as the camera moves in to reveal Hangman Adam Page alone at a corner table, bottle of whiskey in front of him and a glass half-empty. His eyes are glazed and his movements slow.
The camera pans to the entrance of the bar, and we see Kenny Omega enter. Omega looks around until he spots Hangman. He approaches cautiously, a look of concern on his face. He pulls out the seat across from Hangman and sits down.
Kenny Omega: I’ve been trying to get a hold of you since Starrcade. Why are you ducking my calls?
Hangman Adam Page: [slurring slightly] Kenny… you should just… just go. You’d be better off without me.
Kenny Omega: What are you talking about? Look, if this is about losing the tag titles, I’m disappointed too. But when life knocks you down, you get back up and put yourself back together.
Hangman Adam Page: [taking another swig from his drink] It’s not just that. I’m no good, Kenny. I never have been. (pauses) And I… I’m sorry for knocking you off that ladder in the Gold Rush match.
Omega leans in closer, softening his tone as he speaks to his friend.
Kenny Omega: Page, there’s nothing to apologize for. We both knew it was every man for himself when we entered that match. You need to stop feeling sorry for yourself.
Hangman Adam Page: [eyes filling with tears] Just.. you don’t get it, Kenny. Just go man, you’re better off without me.
Hangman stands up unsteadily, grabbing his bottle and glass. He looks at Kenny one last time before turning and walking towards the door, his steps unsteady.
Kenny Omega: Adam! Wait! You don’t have to do this alone. We can get through this together.
Hangman stops for a moment, his back to Kenny, then shakes his head and continues to walk out of the bar.
Renee Young is standing by with a microphone in hand. Beside her is Sasha Banks, looking confident and composed.
Renee Young: Ladies and gentlemen, I’m here with Sasha Banks, who is coming off a huge wave of momentum after defeating Alexa Bliss at Starrcade. Sasha, what’s next for the Boss?
Sasha Banks: [smirking] Renee, the Boss is always planning her next move. Although I’m not going to answer Athena Star’s open challenge tonight for the Knockouts Championship, there will come a time and place in the near future where I retake what is rightfully mine.
Renee Young: And what about your victory over Alexa Bliss?
Sasha Banks: [chuckling to herself] Alexa Bliss? I always knew I was better than her. But let’s talk about Asuka, who was recognized as the number one women’s wrestler of the era at Starrcade. If I got to jump from one company to the other, I’d have won all the world titles too. Asuka isn’t that good, she’s just a big fish in a small pond.
Renee Young: Wow, that’s quite the statement, Sasha.
Sasha Banks: It’s the truth, Renee. But that slight just makes me want to work harder. The 7th Era is my era, and when the smoke clears and historians talk about the best of all time, my name is going to be at the top of the list.
Sasha Banks confidently walks away, leaving Renee Young to wrap up the segment.
Renee Young: Well, there you have it, folks. Sasha Banks—
Suddenly, the chaos erupts as Nia Jax and Toni Storm burst into the area, seemingly kicking off the reverse battle royal for the Knockouts Hardcore Championship. Jax and Storm are brawling fiercely.
Nia Jax tackles Toni Storm, sending her crashing through the wall! Storm lies unconscious as Jax spits on her.
Nia Jax: [standing over Storm] Welcome to AEW, bitch!
The camera cuts back to ringside where Arn Anderson and Kevin Kelly are seated at the commentary table.
Arn Anderson: Well, folks, it appears the reverse battle royal has started early! The first Knockout to make it to the ring will win the Knockouts Hardcore Championship. But first, we have an exciting match coming up.
Kevin Kelly: That’s right, Arn. The AEW Knockouts Championship is on the line as Athena Star has issued an open challenge. With the recent expansion of the Knockouts Division following the Draft, any one of the new additions could respond.
Match #2 | AEW Knockouts Championship
Miss Athena Star (C) vs. ???
Athena Star’s entrance music hits. She makes her way to the ring, the Knockouts Championship proudly displayed around her waist as the audience give her a hero’s welcome. She steps into the ring, raising the title high above her head and taking a moment to soak in the adulation of the fans. She paces confidently, awaiting her challenger.
The music changes, and the crowd erupts as Molly Holly’s entrance theme plays. Molly Holly steps out onto the stage, looking determined and ready for the challenge!
Arn Anderson: This is something of a dream match, folks. Molly Holly has had a career resurgence this year, and this could be one of her biggest moments yet!
Kevin Kelly: With Star promising that 2024 will be her last year as a full-time wrestler, I’m just so happy to see Holly accept this challenge. This is a match I thought we’d have to wait months to see!
As Holly climbs into the ring, Athena Star nods in acknowledgment of her challenger. The referee holds up the Knockouts Championship before handing it to the timekeeper and ringing the bell.
Kevin Kelly: Here we go! The AEW Knockouts Championship is on the line!
Athena Star and Molly Holly circle each other before locking up in the center of the ring. The match starts with a series of technical holds and counters and quick reversals, each showing their proficiency and awareness in the squared circle.
As the match progresses, Athena Star gains the upper hand with a series of a tornado DDT followed by rapid fire suplexes. She whips Molly into the ropes and catches her with a spinning heel kick. As Molly gets back to her feet, Star whips her into the corner and charges at her with her patented handspring elbow and followers up with a cover. Molly kicks out at two.
Molly fights back, using her experience to outmaneuver Athena. She hits a beautiful dropkick, sending Athena to the mat. Molly climbs to the top rope and goes for her signature move, the Molly Go Round. She nails it with precision, immediately following up with the cover.
Arn Anderson: Molly Go Round! We could have a new champion!
The crowd counts along with the referee, but Athena Star kicks out just before the three-count. Molly looks frustrated but determined. She pulls Athena to her feet, but Athena fights back with a flurry of punches. Athena whips Molly into the corner and charges in with a running knee strike, dazing Holly. Athena climbs to the top rope, signaling for her finisher.
Athena leaps off the top rope, hitting the 4:20 Splash with precision. She hooks Molly’s leg for the cover, and the referee counts to three!
The crowd erupts in applause as Athena Star stands victorious. She helps Molly Holly to her feet and extends her hand. Molly shakes it, and the two embrace in a show of mutual respect.
Kevin Kelly: What a match! Athena Star retains the Knockouts Championship, and what a show of sportsmanship between these two incredible athletes.
Winner: Miss Athena Star
Match Time: 10:15
SEGMENT THREE
As the show returns from commercial break, our cameras are backstage where Stevie R. of the Harlem Turtles is packing his bag and prepping to leave the arena. He looks visibly upset about the loss they suffered earlier tonight to the Acclaimed. His partner, Booker D., tries to calm him down.
Booker D: Come on, Stevie. It’s just one match. We’ll bounce back.
Stevie R: [shaking his head] I don’t Book, I’m not even sure if this is worth it anymore.
Stevie steps out of the locker room, and the camera follows him. Booker D. follows as well, looking concerned.
Booker D: What do you mean by that?
Stevie R.: [sighing] With Splinter gone and forced into retirement, and our inability to win big matches when it matters, I just don’t have the drive to keep moving forward.
Booker D: Moreso?
Stevie R: Than before so.
Booker D: No, come on. We’re a team. I need you, man. I can’t this without you.
As they pass through the gorilla position, Molly Holly comes through the curtain, lighting up when she sees Stevie. She rushes to hug her old manager and friend.
Molly Holly: Stevie! It’s so good to see you!
Stevie R. cracks a friendly yet forced smile, as Booker D. looks at Molly with hope.
Booker D: Molly, you gotta talk some sense into this guy! He’s acting like he wants to call it quits.
Molly Holly: Stevie, the Harlem Turtles are the greatest tag team of all time. You were there for me when I didn’t have much confidence in myself. Let me return the favor.
Stevie R: Thanks, Molly. I really appreciate it. But I need to think about it. It really is good to see you.
Stevie gives Molly a hug and then walks off. Booker D. watches on with concern.
Booker D: I know you and I have some history, and not all of it was good. And I probably have no right to ask you for a favor, but look at him… he needs us. Will you talk to him? Not for me, but for him. Call him, talk some sense into him.
Molly Holly: It’s the least I could do. He saved my career, and I can’t stand to see him go out like this.
Booker thanks Molly as she walks away. The camera captures the worried expression on Booker D.’s face as the scene fades to black.
Match #3 | AEW Knockouts Hardcore Championship
The camera cuts to a different part of the backstage area, where the reverse battle royal for the Knockouts Hardcore Championship is underway. The competitors are scattered around, as Kevin Kelly explains that the first to reach the ring will become the inaugural champion.
The camera pans around, showing Nia Jax, Maryse, Penelope Ford, Lacey Evans, Kaitlyn, Melina, and Nyla Rose in a state of chaos, as all seven are brawling, using anything they can find as weapons.
Nia Jax grabs a steel chair and swings it at Penelope Ford, who ducks just in time and retaliates with a kendo stick shot to Jax’s midsection. Maryse and Lacey Evans are battling near a stack of tables, with Maryse slamming Evans’ head into one of them.
Kaitlyn and Melina are fighting near some equipment crates. Kaitlyn grabs Melina and throws her into a stack of crates, knocking them over and creating a barricade. Nyla Rose, meanwhile, is tossing anything she can find at anyone who comes near her.
The brawl continues as the participants make their way through the backstage area, heading towards the gorilla position. The camera captures the intensity of the fight, with bodies flying and weapons being used without hesitation.
Penelope Ford attempts to break away from the chaos and sprints towards the ring entrance, but Nia Jax catches her from behind and slams her onto a table. The table doesn’t break, but Penelope writhes in pain.
Maryse, seizing the opportunity, hits Nia Jax with a steel chair from behind, staggering the powerhouse. Lacey Evans takes advantage and hits Maryse with a suplex onto the concrete floor.
Kaitlyn and Melina, still brawling, make their way towards the ring. Kaitlyn hits Melina with a hard right hand, causing her to stumble. Nyla Rose grabs Kaitlyn and powerbombs her onto a stack of chairs, causing the chairs to scatter.
The action spills out into the arena, and the crowd roars as the participants emerge from the backstage area. Penelope Ford, recovering from her earlier slam, grabs a chair and hits Lacey Evans, who’s trying to make her way to the ring.
Nia Jax and Nyla Rose face off near the ring, exchanging heavy blows. Nia grabs Nyla and throws her into the steel steps. Nia then sets up a table near the ring apron.
Maryse tries to sneak past everyone and get to the ring, but Kaitlyn intercepts her, hitting a devastating spear. Kaitlyn then gets hit by a clothesline from Melina, who quickly tries to get to the ring herself.
As Melina gets close, Lacey Evans hits her with a chair, knocking her down. Penelope Ford, seeing her chance, jumps onto the apron but gets pulled down by Nyla Rose. Nyla powerbombs Ford through the table set up by Nia Jax, causing the crowd to erupt.
Nia Jax, seeing the path clear, heads towards the ring. Maryse and Lacey Evans try to grab her, but Nia shoves them off, sending Maryse into the barricade and Lacey into the steel steps.
With the other competitors struggling to recover, Nia Jax climbs onto the apron and enters the ring, becoming the first Knockout to make it inside!
The crowd showers Jax with a chorus of boos as she stands in the ring, raising her arms in victory. Blood is seen on a few of the competitors, showcasing the brutal nature of the match. The camera captures the wreckage around the ring, with tables broken and chairs scattered everywhere.
Arn Anderson: What a chaotic match to kick off the Knockouts Hardcore division! These women put their bodies on the line tonight in one of the most entertaining Knockouts matches I’ve ever had the privilege to call.
Kevin Kelly: And through the wreckage, one woman stands tall. Nia Jax’s reign of dominance continues tonight, as she captures the first championship of her career here in Los Angeles! I’ve been told that Toni Storm was taken to the hospital to be treated for a concussion following her earlier encounter tonight with Jax, and I wouldn’t be surprised if a few of these women join her at the local medical facility!
Winner: Nia Jax
Match Time: 18:51
SEGMENT FOUR
Xolo Mariduena is sitting in the green room, relaxing when suddenly, Sami Zayn bursts into frame, clearly agitated. Zayn immediately begins yelling at Mariduena.
Sami Zayn: Diaz! What the hell were you thinking bringing that degenerate Johnny Lawrence here tonight?
Xolo Mariduena: [calmly] I had nothing to do with that, Sami. Sensei read about what you’ve been doing to me in the press, and I guess he wanted to take matters into his own hands. Besides, I’m pretty sure it was MJF who called him.
Sami Zayn: Bullshit, I know-
Xolo Mariduena: You just can’t help yourself, can ya Sami? Seems you’re making enemies wherever you go. Besides, I thought you wanted Johnny here for the ratings?
Sami Zayn: [pointing his finger] You’re an arrogant, disrespectful little shit who’s been a pain in my ass since day one. None of this would’ve happened if you’d just do what I signed you to do!
Xolo stands up, and steps close to Sami.
Xolo Mariduena: Sami, maybe you don’t have a problem playing a character, since you’ve clearly been playing one all along to cozy up to Benny Mouse only to steal his company. But I’m not going to be Miguel Diaz forever. Cobra Kai brought me stardom, but now I’m going to make it in wrestling on my own merits.
Sami Zayn: [scoffing] Is that so? Well, Diaz, you’ll have your chance this Friday night, when you go one-on-one with Armageddon!
Sami Zayn turns to storm off, but the lights flicker, causing Zayn to mutter angrily under his breath.
Sami Zayn: [cursing] Fucking lousy production values!
Back at ringside, the camera focuses on Arn Anderson and Kevin Kelly, seated at the commentary desk.
Arn Anderson: It’s been a wild and unpredictable evening in All Elite Wrestling, but this Friday the season premieres keep rolling with the return of Chaos for the first time in 20 years. The card is shaping up to be a can’t-miss show, and I’ve learned that in addition to Mariduena vs. Armageddon and FTR in tag action, we’ll see Swerve Strickland put the AEW TV Championship on the line against my son, Brock Anderson!
Kevin Kelly: What a treat that’ll be, for you to witness your son in action for the first time in person. And also, we’ve learned that we’ll also hear from Dominik Mysterio, who shocked the world at Starrcade when he took out Orange Cassidy and inserted himself into the Gold Rush Ladder Match, winning an opportunity to challenge for any championship at any time of his choosing!
Arn Anderson: Friday nights will never be the same! But before we get to Chaos, we’ve got our main event tonight, as Brock Lesnar is set to put his title shot on the line against Roman Reigns!
Kevin Kelly: Roman Reigns has had a string of bad luck recently. First, thanks to Sami and Armageddon, he got screwed out of his AEW World Heavyweiht Championship opportunity at Retribution. Then, Lesnar cost the Bloodline the 10-Man tag at Starrcade, and the Usos defected to WWE. Reigns looks to turn things around tonight in our main event.
The camera transitions from the commentary desk to the ring, where the action is about to begin.
Match #4 | AEW World Heavyweight Championship #1 Contenders Match
Brock Lesnar vs. Roman Reigns w/ Paul Heyman
Brock Lesnar’s music hits, and the crowd erupts as the Beast Incarnate makes his way to the ring, looking as focused as ever. He steps into the ring, bouncing on the balls of his feet, ready for the challenge.
Roman Reigns’ music hits next, and the crowd gives a mixed reaction as the Tribal Chief makes his entrance, flanked by Paul Heyman. Reigns walks with a determined stride, eyes locked on Lesnar as he makes his way to the ring. Arn Anderson says this feud has been brewing for months, with Paul Heyman declaring for the Tribal Chief after Lesnar was taken out by Darby Allin and the Brothers of Destruction last winter. Kelly says he wouldn’t want to be in Heyman’s spot, being forced to declare for one client over the other. Anderson says Heyman made his choice, and tonight it’s time to deal with the consequences of his actions.
The match starts with a fierce lock-up, neither man giving an inch. Lesnar uses his power to push Reigns into the corner, but Reigns fights back with a series of punches, pushing Lesnar into the opposite corner.
The back-and-forth battle continues, with Lesnar hitting Reigns with a suplex that sends him flying across the ring. Reigns gets back to his feet and responds with a Superman Punch, staggering Lesnar.
Reigns goes for a spear, but Lesnar catches him and counters with a devastating F5. He goes for the pin, but Reigns kicks out at two!
Reigns fights back, hitting Lesnar with a series of clotheslines and another Superman Punch. He sets up for another spear and connects this time, taking Lesnar down. He covers, but Lesnar kicks out at two and a half.
Reigns hits a Superman Punch, but Lesnar no sells it, quickly countering with a German suplex. The Beast Incarnate is in control, but Reigns fights back, hitting another Superman Punch and setting up for the spear.
Reigns charges for the spear, but Lesnar sidesteps, and Reigns inadvertently takes out the referee.
Reigns sends Lesnar to the outside, where Paul Heyman is standing, watching with concern. Heyman and Lesnar come face to face, and the tension is thick.
Kevin Kelly: Heyman is in a tough spot here. His former client and his Tribal Chief are at odds.
Lesnar chases Heyman around the ring, but Reigns intercepts Lesnar with a drive-by kick, sending Lesnar crashing into the barricade. Reigns gets Lesnar back into the ring, but there’s no referee to count the pin.
Reigns yells for Heyman to grab a chair. Heyman hesitates but eventually slides a chair into the ring. Reigns lifts Lesnar up and tells Heyman to prove his allegiance by striking Lesnar with the chair. Heyman lifts the chair, visibly conflicted.
Heyman swings the chair as hard as he can, but Lesnar ducks, and Heyman inadvertently cracks Reigns over the head with the chair, busting him open. Lesnar grins at Heyman, who looks horrified and takes off running.
A second referee runs down to the ring as Lesnar capitalizes, lifting Reigns and hitting an F5. The referee counts the pinfall, and Lesnar retains his right to challenge for the AEW World Heavyweight Championship!
Winner: Brock Lesnar
Match Time: 12:55
Lesnar celebrates in the ring as Heyman watches from the top of the stage, looking horrified at what he has done as the show ends.
World Of Wrestling: Murrey Universe 