Aired - August 23, 2026
The screen is completely black.
For several long seconds, there is no music.
No crowd.
No announcers.
Only the distant sound of wind moving across ice.
Then a single metallic crack breaks the silence.
A thin fracture of blue-white light appears across the darkness.
Another crack follows.
Then another.
The fractures spread rapidly until the entire screen resembles a frozen sheet of glass under impossible pressure.
A deep voice speaks over the darkness.
VOICEOVER: “Pressure does not create strength.”
Images begin flashing behind the fractured ice.
Grondar the Revenant raising the North Pole Championship.
Santa Claus staring across the ring at the champion.
Rudolph launching himself through an opponent with explosive speed.
The enormous silhouette of Infernus Rex surrounded by rising heat against the frozen North.
VOICEOVER: “Pressure reveals it.”
The music begins.
Heavy percussion rolls beneath a rising orchestral score.
The screen cuts rapidly through the rivalries that have brought the Polar Division here.
Ghost of Christmas Past holding the Universal Championship high above his head.
Big Bad Wolf looking upward toward the championship with predatory focus.
Ultimate Beasts standing together with the Universal Tag Team Championships.
Blitzen and Donner charging toward the ring.
Blonde Bombshells raising the North Star Tag Team Championships.
The Candy Shoppe Twins standing opposite them.
Crimson Vane clutching the Queen of the North Championship.
Lilith staring back at her.
A steel chain drops across the screen.
A ladder crashes open behind them.
VOICEOVER: “Championships will be defended.”
The montage accelerates.
Krampus and Marax the Deceiver exchanging blows.
Jack Mason standing nose-to-nose with the Master of the Night.
Polly Mason glaring across the ring at Dr. Violetta Voss.
A referee counts beside a fallen body.
One. Two. Three. Four.
The image cuts away before the count can continue.
VOICEOVER: “Grudges will be settled.”
The music suddenly drops away.
The screen shows Jack Mason standing alone.
Then Polly Mason.
Then a shadowed image of the Master of the Night.
Then Dr. Violetta Voss.
The frozen image fractures again.
VOICEOVER: “And some battles were never about championships at all.”
A final burst of orchestral music hits.
The screen explodes into white.
The official event logo fills the screen.
NPCW FALLOUT 2026
AUGUST 23, 2026
SCROOGE'S GLACIER PLEX
The broadcast cuts live inside the arena.
Thousands of fans are already on their feet.
Blue, silver and white spotlights sweep across Scrooge's Glacier Plex as artificial snow falls from the lighting structure high above the ring.
The massive video wall displays the FALLOUT 2026 logo while columns of cold-white pyrotechnics erupt along both sides of the entrance stage.
A second wave detonates above the ring.
The crowd explodes.
Signs fill the stands.
“THE NORTH ENDURES”
“BIG BAD WOLF WANTS GOLD”
“RUN RUDOLPH RUN”
“POLLY STANDS LAST”
“JACK MASON FINISH THIS”
“GRONDAR FEARS NO ONE”
The camera sweeps across the packed Glacier Plex before settling on the ring.
Standing alone at its center is Elias Coldmere.
Elias Coldmere wears a tailored midnight-blue suit beneath a long dark winter coat. His posture is straight and composed. There is no championship ceremony around him and no entourage at his side.
Only a microphone.
The crowd settles gradually as Elias Coldmere looks around the arena.
Elias Coldmere: “Ladies and gentlemen…”
The crowd rises again.
Elias Coldmere waits.
A faint smile crosses his face.
Elias Coldmere: “Welcome to NPCW FALLOUT 2026.”
The Glacier Plex erupts.
Elias Coldmere lowers the microphone and allows the reaction to build.
“NPCW!” “NPCW!” “NPCW!”
Elias Coldmere: “Tonight, the Polar Division comes to you live from Scrooge's Glacier Plex, and tonight there will be no question about what is at stake.”
He turns slowly toward one side of the building.
Elias Coldmere: “Seven matches.”
He turns toward the opposite stands.
Elias Coldmere: “Five championship matches.”
Another enormous reaction rolls through the arena.
Elias Coldmere: “And several rivalries that have reached the point where words are no longer enough.”
The crowd cheers louder.
Elias Coldmere: “Every championship match tonight will be decided under the rules established for that contest. Every competitor has been informed of those rules. Every official has been instructed accordingly.”
His expression hardens slightly.
Elias Coldmere: “And every wrestler who walks through that curtain tonight understands one thing.”
He looks directly into the primary camera.
Elias Coldmere: “At Fallout, actions have consequences.”
A roar rises from the crowd.
Elias Coldmere: “The Universal Tag Team Championship will be defended.”
The screen above the entrance shows Ultimate Beasts, followed by Blitzen and Donner.
Elias Coldmere: “The North Star Tag Team Championship will be defended.”
Images of the Blonde Bombshells and the Candy Shoppe Twins appear.
Elias Coldmere: “The Universal Championship will be defended when Ghost of Christmas Past faces Big Bad Wolf.”
The crowd responds loudly to both names.
Elias Coldmere: “The Queen of the North Championship will be decided across as many as three completely different matches.”
Images flash across the screen.
Crimson Vane.
Lilith.
A steel chain.
A ladder.
Elias Coldmere: “First fall, traditional rules. Second fall, Chain Match. And if a third fall is required…”
He pauses.
Elias Coldmere: “The championship will hang above the ring in a Ladder Match.”
The arena explodes.
Elias Coldmere: “Tonight, Krampus and Marax the Deceiver finally meet one-on-one.”
A mixture of cheers and hostility rolls through the audience.
Elias Coldmere: “Tonight, Polly Mason and Dr. Violetta Voss fight until only one woman can answer the count of ten.”
The reaction grows louder.
Elias Coldmere: “Tonight, Jack Mason steps into this ring with the Master of the Night.”
That produces one of the loudest reactions yet.
“JACK! JACK! JACK! JACK!”
Elias Coldmere lets the chant continue.
His voice becomes quieter when he resumes.
Elias Coldmere: “There are circumstances surrounding that match that extend beyond anything resembling an ordinary wrestling rivalry.”
The crowd murmurs.
Elias Coldmere: “But when that bell rings, this ring remains under NPCW authority.”
He looks directly toward the entrance tunnel.
Elias Coldmere: “And both men will be held responsible for what happens inside it.”
The audience applauds.
Elias Coldmere: “Then, in tonight's main event…”
The arena lighting darkens.
Four images appear across the massive video screen.
Rudolph.
Infernus Rex.
Santa Claus.
And finally the reigning North Pole Champion, Grondar the Revenant.
The championship appears between them.
Elias Coldmere: “Four competitors.”
A beat.
Elias Coldmere: “One championship.”
Another beat.
Elias Coldmere: “No alliances guaranteed.”
The camera closes in.
Elias Coldmere: “Grondar the Revenant defends the North Pole Championship against Rudolph, Infernus Rex, and Santa Claus.”
The building erupts.
Elias Coldmere: “The champion does not have to be defeated to lose his championship.”
A murmur ripples through the crowd.
Elias Coldmere: “Every challenger understands the opportunity.”
His eyes narrow.
Elias Coldmere: “And Grondar understands the danger.”
The crowd begins another chant.
“FALLOUT!” “FALLOUT!” “FALLOUT!”
Elias Coldmere looks around the arena once more.
Elias Coldmere: “The Polar Division has always been built on a simple belief.”
He pauses.
Elias Coldmere: “Pressure does not decide who deserves to stand.”
The crowd grows quieter.
Elias Coldmere: “Competition does.”
A cheer rises.
Elias Coldmere: “So tonight, let the competition decide.”
He lowers the microphone.
Elias Coldmere: “Welcome to Fallout.”
The music hits again.
Cold-white pyrotechnics erupt along the stage as Elias Coldmere leaves the ring.
The camera follows him halfway up the aisle before swinging toward the Polar Power broadcast position.
Johnny “The Mic” Michaels sits behind the desk wearing a dark blue suit with a silver tie. Beside him, Eddie Ellington adjusts his headset while looking around the arena with the expression of a man already prepared to disagree with everyone in the building.
Johnny Michaels: “What an atmosphere! Welcome, everyone, to NPCW Fallout 2026! I am Johnny ‘The Mic’ Michaels, and alongside me tonight is Eddie Ellington. Eddie, Scrooge's Glacier Plex is overflowing, seven matches are ahead of us, championships are everywhere, and some of the biggest rivalries in the entire Polar Division reach their breaking point tonight!”
Eddie Ellington: “Breaking point? Johnny, half these people passed their breaking point three weeks ago. Look at the card! Chains, ladders, Last Woman Standing, demons fighting demons, Jack Mason going after the Master of the Night, and then four lunatics fighting over one championship in the main event. This isn't Fallout. This is what happens after management loses the instruction manual.”
Johnny Michaels: “I suspect Elias Coldmere might disagree with that assessment.”
Eddie Ellington: “Of course he would. He's management. Management always tells you everything is under control right before somebody gets thrown through furniture.”
Johnny Michaels: “Nevertheless, Elias made the expectations very clear. The rules are established. The officials are prepared. And tonight, the competitors decide the rest.”
Eddie Ellington: “That part I like. Especially because some people walking into this building tonight have spent weeks convincing themselves they deserve something. Tonight they have to prove it.”
Johnny Michaels: “And proving it will not be easy. Five championships will be decided tonight, beginning with the Universal Tag Team Championship, where the Ultimate Beasts defend against Blitzen and Donner.”
Eddie Ellington: “That's what you call starting quietly.”
Johnny Michaels: “Quietly?”
Eddie Ellington: “Four enormous men beating each other up, Johnny. That's practically a handshake around here.”
Johnny Michaels: “We also have the North Star Tag Team Championship, the Universal Championship, the extraordinary Two-out-of-Three Falls battle for the Queen of the North Championship, and our Fatal Four-Way main event for the North Pole Championship.”
Eddie Ellington: “And don't forget Krampus and Marax. I'm bringing that up because if those two start fighting anywhere near this desk, I'm leaving you here.”
Johnny Michaels: “How generous.”
Eddie Ellington: “You're welcome.”
Johnny Michaels: “And then there are the battles that have become deeply personal. Polly Mason faces Dr. Violetta Voss in a Last Woman Standing Match.”
Eddie Ellington: “I don't think either woman is coming here looking for a technical masterpiece.”
Johnny Michaels: “And later tonight, Jack Mason faces the Master of the Night.”
For the first time, Eddie Ellington does not immediately make a joke.
Eddie Ellington: “That one is different.”
Johnny Michaels: “It is.”
Eddie Ellington: “I've criticized Jack Mason plenty. I'll probably do it again before midnight. But after everything that has happened around his family, he isn't walking into that match thinking about rankings.”
Johnny Michaels: “No. He isn't.”
Eddie Ellington: “And that's dangerous, Johnny. Not just for the other guy. For Jack, too.”
Johnny Michaels: “That is a story we will confront later tonight. But before the first bell rings, we are going backstage.”
The camera begins to pull away from the commentary desk.
Johnny Michaels: “The North Star Tag Team Champions, the Blonde Bombshells, are standing by.”
Eddie Ellington: “Champions with something to say? This should be modest.”
Johnny Michaels: “Somehow I knew you'd find a way.”
The FALLOUT 2026 logo flashes across the screen as the broadcast transitions backstage.
The broadcast returns backstage inside Scrooge's Glacier Plex.
The Fallout interview area has been dressed for the occasion.
Silver light washes across a deep blue backdrop bearing the NPCW Fallout 2026 logo. Thin strips of white illumination run vertically along both sides of the set, reflecting from the polished floor and giving the entire area the cold brilliance of freshly cut ice.
Standing at the center of the shot is Smooth Samantha Satin.
For the pay-per-view, Samantha wears a long shimmering silver-and-blue dress that catches the light whenever she moves. A microphone rests comfortably in one hand, her expression composed as the crowd inside the arena can still be heard beyond the backstage walls.
On either side of her stand the Blonde Bombshells.
Alice and Dorothy wear matching black-and-gold hoodies over their ring gear.
Around their waists are the North Star Tag Team Championships.
And resting casually across their shoulders are their unmistakable kendo sticks.
Neither champion looks particularly nervous.
If anything, they look like they have been waiting all day for someone to ask them about what comes next.
Smooth Samantha Satin: “Welcome back to Fallout 2026. Joining me now are the reigning North Star Tag Team Champions, Alice and Dorothy, the Blonde Bombshells.”
Dorothy gives the championship around her waist a quick tap.
Alice raises her kendo stick slightly toward the camera.
Smooth Samantha Satin: “Ladies, later tonight you defend those championships against the Candy Shoppe Twins. They have generated considerable attention very quickly, and tonight represents their biggest opportunity since reaching the main Polar Division roster.”
Alice glances toward Dorothy.
Dorothy smiles.
Alice: “Good.”
Samantha lifts an eyebrow.
Alice: “Seriously. Good.”
Alice steps slightly closer to the microphone.
Alice: “Because if you're going to walk onto the main roster, you should aim high.”
Dorothy: “Really high.”
Alice: “You shouldn't come here looking for the easiest match.”
Dorothy: “Or the easiest team.”
Alice: “You should look for the champions.”
Dorothy points both thumbs toward herself and Alice.
Dorothy: “And they found us.”
The champions exchange a quick grin.
Smooth Samantha Satin: “You sound almost pleased that they challenged you.”
Dorothy: “Why wouldn't we be?”
She adjusts the North Star Tag Team Championship around her waist.
Dorothy: “These don't mean nearly as much if all we do is stand around backstage polishing them.”
Alice: “Championships are supposed to be defended.”
Dorothy: “Preferably against people who think they can take them.”
Alice: “Especially against people who think they can take them.”
Smooth Samantha Satin: “The Candy Shoppe Twins have also made it clear that they don't intend to treat tonight as simply an opportunity to gain experience.”
Alice: “They shouldn't.”
There is no mockery in her response.
Alice: “I've heard that phrase all week. Experience.”
She shakes her head.
Alice: “That's what people say when they want to make a team feel better before they've even walked through the curtain.”
Dorothy: “They didn't come to Fallout for a field trip.”
Alice: “They came for our championships.”
Dorothy: “And that's exactly how we're treating them.”
Smooth Samantha Satin: “So you're not overlooking them?”
Both women immediately look at Samantha.
Dorothy: “Samantha.”
Alice: “Look at us.”
Dorothy holds out the bottom of her hoodie.
Dorothy: “Matching black and gold.”
Alice gestures to the championships.
Alice: “Matching titles.”
Dorothy lifts her kendo stick.
Dorothy: “Matching sticks.”
She looks toward Alice's kendo stick.
Dorothy: “Well, mostly matching.”
Alice: “Yours has a dent.”
Dorothy: “It has character.”
Alice: “You hit people with it.”
Dorothy: “That's how it got the character.”
Smooth Samantha Satin suppresses a smile.
Alice returns her attention to the interviewer.
Alice: “But no. We're not overlooking anybody.”
The playful edge fades.
Alice: “We've been around too long to make that mistake.”
Dorothy: “The Candy Shoppe Twins are fast.”
Alice: “They're coordinated.”
Dorothy: “They know where the other one is without looking.”
Alice: “And that's dangerous in a tag match.”
Dorothy: “Very dangerous.”
Alice: “But there's a difference between being a good team…”
She taps the plate of her championship.
Alice: “…and being the team carrying these.”
Smooth Samantha Satin: “What is that difference?”
This time Dorothy answers first.
Dorothy: “Pressure.”
She looks directly into the camera.
Dorothy: “Everybody looks good when the match is going their way.”
Alice: “Everybody has confidence when they're hitting their moves.”
Dorothy: “Champions find out what happens when none of that works.”
Alice: “When somebody counters you.”
Dorothy: “When you can't reach your partner.”
Alice: “When you're tired.”
Dorothy: “When you're hurt.”
Alice: “When you realize the team across from you isn't going away.”
Dorothy: “That's when you learn whether you're ready.”
Smooth Samantha Satin: “And tonight you intend to find out whether the Candy Shoppe Twins are ready?”
Alice: “Absolutely.”
Dorothy: “We're going to welcome them.”
Samantha turns slightly toward her.
Smooth Samantha Satin: “Welcome them?”
Dorothy smiles broadly.
Dorothy: “Properly.”
Alice: “No shortcuts.”
Dorothy: “No excuses.”
Alice: “No easy night because they're new.”
Dorothy: “That's insulting.”
Alice: “If you're on the main roster, you're on the main roster.”
Dorothy: “And if you're standing across from the Blonde Bombshells…”
She pats the North Star Tag Team Championship.
Dorothy: “…you're getting the champions.”
Alice: “All of us.”
She raises the kendo stick resting across her shoulder.
Smooth Samantha Satin glances toward the sticks.
Smooth Samantha Satin: “Since you've both brought them with you, I imagine somebody watching is going to ask about those.”
Dorothy: “Decoration.”
Alice slowly turns toward her.
Dorothy: “Very intimidating decoration.”
Alice: “They're not part of the match.”
Dorothy: “Unless somebody changes the rules without telling us.”
Alice: “Nobody changed the rules.”
Dorothy: “Then decoration.”
Smooth Samantha Satin: “I'm sure Elias Coldmere will be relieved to hear that.”
Alice: “He worries too much.”
Dorothy: “That's why his hair always looks so serious.”
Alice gives her a puzzled look.
Alice: “Hair doesn't look serious.”
Dorothy: “His does.”
Samantha smoothly redirects before the conversation gets any further away from the championships.
Smooth Samantha Satin: “One final question. If the Candy Shoppe Twins are watching right now, what do you want them to know before they walk into that ring tonight?”
The Bombshells become serious again.
Alice looks directly into the camera.
Alice: “You earned the opportunity.”
Beside her, Dorothy nods.
Alice: “That matters.”
Dorothy: “You wanted the champions.”
Alice: “You got us.”
Dorothy: “And tonight, nobody is going to call you rookies.”
Alice: “Nobody is going to call you prospects.”
Dorothy: “Nobody is going to tell you how impressive it was just to get here.”
Alice: “Tonight you're challengers.”
Dorothy: “We're champions.”
Together, both women lift the North Star Tag Team Championships from their waists and raise them onto their shoulders.
Alice: “So come take your shot.”
Dorothy: “And we'll give you the full Blonde Bombshells welcome.”
Alice: “Then when the bell rings…”
Dorothy: “…we'll find out if you can survive it.”
Alice extends her kendo stick toward the camera.
Dorothy crosses hers over it.
The two sticks form an X beneath the gold championship plates resting across their shoulders.
Smooth Samantha Satin: “The Blonde Bombshells, confident ahead of their North Star Tag Team Championship defense later tonight against the Candy Shoppe Twins.”
Dorothy: “Confident?”
She looks at Alice.
Dorothy: “I thought we were charming.”
Alice: “We can be both.”
Dorothy: “Good. Put charming in there.”
Smooth Samantha Satin finally allows herself a small smile.
Smooth Samantha Satin: “Confident and charming.”
Dorothy: “There we go.”
Alice: “Professional journalism.”
The Blonde Bombshells bump their championships together lightly before walking out of the interview area, kendo sticks still resting across their shoulders.
Samantha watches them leave before turning back toward the camera.
Smooth Samantha Satin: “The champions are ready. The question now is whether the Candy Shoppe Twins are ready for them.”
The broadcast cuts away as the Fallout 2026 logo sweeps across the screen.
The broadcast returns to a sweeping shot of Scrooge's Glacier Plex.
The crowd is already standing as the Fallout 2026 logo burns across the enormous video wall above the entrance stage. At ringside, the Universal Tag Team Championships have been placed on a black pedestal beside the timekeeper's area, both gold plates reflecting beneath the cold blue arena lights.
Inside the ring, Celeste Orion stands near the ropes with microphone in hand while referee Honest Abe checks the turnbuckles and speaks briefly with the timekeeper.
At the broadcast desk, Johnny Michaels adjusts his headset.
Johnny Michaels: “It is time for our first match of the evening, and we are beginning Fallout 2026 with championship gold on the line. The Universal Tag Team Championship will be defended, and this is going to be a tremendous physical test for both teams.”
Eddie Ellington: “For both teams? Johnny, let's not start lying to the people in the first match. This is a tremendous physical test for Blitzen and Donner. For the champions, this is Sunday.”
Johnny Michaels: “You are already declaring this one-sided before either team has entered the arena?”
Eddie Ellington: “I'm not declaring anything. I'm observing. Karnyx and Varak are the Ultimate Beasts for a reason. You don't call yourself the Ultimate Mild Inconveniences.”
The arena lights shift to icy white.
A rhythmic pounding begins over the sound system, accompanied by the sound of hooves striking frozen earth.
The crowd rises.
Blitzen bursts through the curtain first, moving rapidly onto the stage with both arms raised.
Seconds later Donner emerges behind him.
The members of the Reindeer Coalition stand together at the top of the ramp, taking in the packed Glacier Plex before turning toward the ring.
Blitzen is immediately restless, bouncing from foot to foot, while the larger Donner rolls his shoulders and stares straight ahead.
The two slap hands.
Then they charge down opposite sides of the aisle, reaching across the barricades to connect with fans before regrouping at ringside.
Johnny Michaels: “Listen to this reception! Blitzen and Donner have never hidden what they want. They believe they can compete with any tag team in NPCW, and tonight they finally get the opportunity to prove it on one of the biggest stages of the year.”
Eddie Ellington: “Wonderful. They're enthusiastic. Maybe somebody can give them participation ribbons after Karnyx folds one of them into luggage.”
Johnny Michaels: “They earned this championship match, Eddie.”
Eddie Ellington: “I didn't say they didn't earn it. I'm saying earning a ticket to stand in front of a freight train doesn't mean you should stand on the tracks.”
Blitzen slides beneath the bottom rope while Donner steps through the ropes beside him.
They climb adjacent turnbuckles and raise their arms toward the crowd.
Then the challengers drop to the canvas and move toward their corner.
The arena suddenly darkens.
A low animalistic drumbeat begins.
Red light appears beneath the entrance tunnel.
The crowd's cheers turn quickly into a mixture of boos and nervous anticipation.
Marcus the Beastmaster steps onto the stage.
He wears a heavy dark coat over his ringside attire, his expression carrying complete confidence.
He stops.
Raises one hand.
The curtain behind him parts.
Karnyx emerges first.
Then Varak.
The Universal Tag Team Championships sit around their waists.
The Ultimate Beasts do not acknowledge the crowd.
They stand on either side of Marcus the Beastmaster, staring down the ramp toward the challengers already waiting inside the ring.
Eddie Ellington: “There. Look at that. That's what champions look like.”
Johnny Michaels: “That's certainly what dominant champions look like.”
Eddie Ellington: “No smiling. No running around touching hands. No wasting energy. They know exactly why they're here.”
Johnny Michaels: “And standing between them is the man who has helped guide that success, Marcus the Beastmaster.”
Eddie Ellington: “Guided? He's cultivated excellence, Johnny. There's a difference.”
Johnny Michaels: “You really have made your choice tonight.”
Eddie Ellington: “I chose common sense.”
Marcus the Beastmaster starts down the aisle.
The champions follow.
Karnyx occasionally rolls his neck as he walks.
Varak keeps his eyes locked on Blitzen and Donner.
At ringside, Marcus the Beastmaster climbs onto the apron first and pulls the middle rope downward.
Varak steps through.
Karnyx follows.
The champions move directly to the center of the ring.
Blitzen and Donner step forward from their corner.
For several seconds, the four men stare at one another.
No one backs away.
Johnny Michaels: “And this is what the challengers wanted. They're not intimidated.”
Eddie Ellington: “They should be. Fear is useful. Fear keeps you from doing stupid things.”
Johnny Michaels: “Such as challenging for a championship?”
Eddie Ellington: “Exactly.”
Referee Honest Abe immediately moves between the teams and orders everyone back to their respective corners.
The championship music fades.
Celeste Orion steps into the center of the ring.
Celeste Orion: “Ladies and gentlemen, the following contest is scheduled for one fall and is for the NPCW UNIVERSAL TAG TEAM CHAMPIONSHIP!”
The crowd erupts.
Celeste Orion turns toward the challengers.
Celeste Orion: “Introducing first, the challengers, representing the Reindeer Coalition... BLITZEN and DONNER!”
Blitzen jumps onto the middle rope and raises both fists.
Donner lifts one arm beside him.
The audience responds loudly.
Celeste Orion waits for the reaction to settle before turning toward the champions.
Celeste Orion: “And their opponents, accompanied to the ring by MARCUS THE BEASTMASTER... they are the reigning and defending NPCW UNIVERSAL TAG TEAM CHAMPIONS... KARNYX and VARAK... the ULTIMATE BEASTS!”
Karnyx and Varak unfasten their championships.
Both men raise the belts overhead.
Marcus the Beastmaster applauds from the floor.
Eddie Ellington: “Take a good look, Johnny. Those belts aren't going anywhere.”
Johnny Michaels: “We are about to find out.”
The champions hand the titles to Honest Abe.
The referee raises both championships high above his head before passing them through the ropes to the timekeeper.
Varak steps onto the apron.
Donner does the same.
That leaves Karnyx and Blitzen inside the ring.
Honest Abe checks both competitors.
The bell rings.
Minute 1
Blitzen immediately uses his speed, circling the much larger Karnyx before darting inside and driving a sharp stomp down onto Karnyx's foot with the Reindeer Clomp.
Karnyx tries to shift away from the stomp but reacts a fraction too late.
Blitzen follows with another quick kick to the leg before retreating outside the reach of the champion.
Karnyx glares across the ring.
Rather than chase Blitzen, Karnyx turns and tags Varak.
Johnny Michaels: “Excellent start from Blitzen. He didn't try to overpower Karnyx. He attacked the base, got in, got out, and forced the champions to make the first tag.”
Eddie Ellington: “Forced? Karnyx tagged because he's generous. He's giving Varak a chance to enjoy himself.”
Johnny Michaels: “You cannot possibly believe that.”
Eddie Ellington: “Of course I can. Champions share.”
Minute 2
Varak enters aggressively, but Blitzen is waiting.
Blitzen catches Varak in an abdominal stretch near the challengers' corner and reaches toward Donner.
A quick tag brings Donner into the ring.
The challengers use the referee's legal count to work together.
Blitzen keeps Varak twisted in the abdominal stretch while Donner drives the Reindeer Clomp down onto the champion's leg.
Varak powers free before the challengers can fully control him and catches Blitzen around the waist.
With tremendous force, Varak launches Blitzen across the ring with a shattering suplex.
Blitzen hits hard but quickly rolls away before Varak can capitalize.
Johnny Michaels: “Good tandem wrestling from the challengers, but look at the response from Varak. One opening and he changes the entire complexion of the exchange.”
Eddie Ellington: “That's power, Johnny. Blitzen needed his partner, a stretch, a stomp and half a committee meeting. Varak needed one suplex.”
Johnny Michaels: “And yet the challengers landed first.”
Eddie Ellington: “The Titanic hit the iceberg first too. Didn't help.”
Minute 3
Varak stalks Blitzen toward the ropes.
Blitzen attempts another Reindeer Clomp, but this time Varak charges through the attack.
Varak drives Blitzen backward, races toward the opposite ropes and climbs rapidly.
From the top rope, Varak launches himself forward with the Apex Descent, smashing a massive shoulder into Blitzen's upper chest.
Blitzen crashes to the canvas.
He scrambles upright and catches Varak with another hard stomp before retreating toward his corner.
Both men make tags.
Karnyx enters for the champions.
Donner enters for the challengers.
Johnny Michaels: “That Apex Descent nearly turned Blitzen inside out, but give the challenger credit. He absorbed it, answered and got to Donner.”
Eddie Ellington: “You say absorbed. I say survived. There's a difference.”
Johnny Michaels: “And now we get our first look at Donner against Karnyx.”
Eddie Ellington: “Finally. Two men built to hit each other instead of all this running around.”
Minute 4
Donner charges directly into Karnyx.
The two collide in the center of the ring.
Neither immediately gives ground.
Donner eventually forces Karnyx backward and works him toward the challengers' corner.
A rapid tag sequence brings Blitzen into the exchange.
Donner stamps down with the Reindeer Clomp while Blitzen slips behind Karnyx and rolls him through with a sunset flip.
Before Honest Abe can establish a pinning position, Karnyx powers free and surges back to his feet.
The champion swings a huge wild haymaker that catches Donner during the challengers' transition and forces both men to scatter.
Johnny Michaels: “The challengers are trying to create movement and force the Ultimate Beasts to deal with two directions at once.”
Eddie Ellington: “They're also spending an awful lot of time with two men in the ring.”
Johnny Michaels: “They are working within Honest Abe's count.”
Eddie Ellington: “Of course they are. When the reindeer do it, it's strategy. If the champions do it later, you'll call the National Guard.”
Minute 5
The challengers continue using quick exchanges in their corner.
Blitzen drives another Reindeer Clomp into Karnyx, but Karnyx refuses to be pulled into their pace.
The champion catches Donner as the larger challenger moves back into position and drags him down into a chinlock.
Karnyx sits his weight behind the hold, forcing Donner to carry the champion's mass while fighting toward his feet.
Blitzen reaches through the ropes, calling for his partner.
Johnny Michaels: “That's an intelligent adjustment by Karnyx. The challengers wanted speed and repeated tags, so Karnyx has slowed Donner down and taken away the movement.”
Eddie Ellington: “You see? That's why they're champions. Karnyx doesn't panic. He solves problems.”
Johnny Michaels: “That may be your first entirely reasonable observation tonight.”
Eddie Ellington: “Don't get used to it.”
Minute 6
Donner fights upright.
Karnyx releases the chinlock and immediately tries to hoist Donner across his knee for a crushing backbreaker.
Donner recognizes the danger.
He shifts his weight, blocks the lift and drives his forearms down against Karnyx's shoulders until the champion is forced to release him.
The two separate.
Karnyx gives Donner a long stare before backing toward the champions' corner and tagging Varak.
Johnny Michaels: “Excellent defense from Donner. Karnyx had the backbreaker set, but Donner neutralized it before the champion could complete the move.”
Eddie Ellington: “Fine. He stopped one move.”
Johnny Michaels: “That matters.”
Eddie Ellington: “Wake me when he stops the whole team.”
Minute 7
Varak enters at speed.
Donner meets him head-on.
Varak fires first with a running big boot that catches Donner across the upper chest.
Donner staggers backward but stays upright.
He rebounds off the ropes and drives through Varak with a running shoulder tackle.
Varak rocks backward.
Both men reset almost immediately.
The crowd responds to the sheer physicality.
Johnny Michaels: “That's exactly the kind of collision we expected! Varak lands the big boot, Donner answers with the shoulder tackle, and neither man wants to concede an inch.”
Eddie Ellington: “I like Donner's courage.”
Johnny Michaels: “That sounds suspiciously complimentary.”
Eddie Ellington: “Courage is what you need when judgment has already failed you.”
Minute 8
Varak presses forward again and catches Donner with another running big boot.
This one knocks Donner down.
Varak moves toward him, but Donner kicks from the canvas, creates separation and rises.
The challenger stamps down with the Reindeer Clomp, catching Varak as the champion steps into range.
Donner immediately reaches his corner.
Blitzen takes the tag and springs over the top rope.
Johnny Michaels: “The challengers continue refusing to let the champions dictate every exchange. Donner gets rocked and still finds a way to answer before getting the fresher Blitzen inside.”
Eddie Ellington: “They keep irritating the champions. That's not the same as beating them.”
Johnny Michaels: “Nobody has said it is.”
Eddie Ellington: “Good. I'm glad you're learning.”
Minute 9
Blitzen barely gets settled before Varak charges.
The champion scoops Blitzen into the Wrecking Crane and drives him violently into the canvas.
Blitzen tries to brace himself on the descent but cannot stop the impact.
Varak hooks the leg.
Honest Abe drops.
One!
Blitzen kicks out.
Varak sits up immediately.
There is no frustration on his face.
He simply looks toward Marcus the Beastmaster.
Marcus the Beastmaster nods.
Varak rises and tags Karnyx.
Across the ring, Blitzen crawls toward his own corner and gets the tag to Donner.
Johnny Michaels: “First cover of the match and only a one-count, but the Wrecking Crane certainly got Blitzen's attention.”
Eddie Ellington: “Only a one-count because Varak didn't need to empty the tank. Make him kick out. Make him spend energy. Make him wonder what the next one feels like.”
Johnny Michaels: “That is certainly the champion's mentality.”
Eddie Ellington: “See? You're coming around.”
Minute 10
Karnyx and Donner meet again.
Karnyx grabs the challenger around the upper body and demonstrates his power with a one-hand toss that sends Donner across the ring.
Donner rolls through the landing and immediately charges back.
He crashes shoulder-first into Karnyx with a running shoulder tackle.
This time both men go backward from the collision.
Johnny Michaels: “Neither one can establish lasting control. Karnyx throws Donner across the ring, and Donner comes straight back at him.”
Eddie Ellington: “I'll give the reindeer this much. Somebody forgot to teach them self-preservation.”
Johnny Michaels: “That is determination.”
Eddie Ellington: “That's what people call it after the insurance claim.”
Minute 11
Karnyx again tries to slow the pace with a chinlock.
Donner reaches for the ropes but finds himself too far away.
Instead he drives backward into the turnbuckles, forcing Karnyx to loosen the hold.
Donner breaks free.
The challenger climbs quickly.
Before Karnyx can fully recover, Donner launches with a shooting star press.
The crowd erupts as he crashes down across the champion.
Karnyx rolls toward his corner.
Donner does the same.
Both men tag.
Varak enters.
Blitzen meets him.
Johnny Michaels: “A shooting star press from Donner! For a man with his size and strength, that athleticism changes everything.”
Eddie Ellington: “I'll admit that was impressive.”
Johnny Michaels: “Twice in eleven minutes.”
Eddie Ellington: “Don't make this uncomfortable.”
Minute 12
Varak immediately gets Blitzen trapped near the champions' corner.
Karnyx tags into the sequence.
The Ultimate Beasts attack together.
Varak hoists Blitzen into position and drives him down with the Wrecking Crane.
Before Blitzen can recover, Karnyx grips him with one hand and hurls him across the canvas with a one-hand toss.
Honest Abe orders Varak toward the apron as the champions complete the tandem assault.
Marcus the Beastmaster pounds the apron once in approval.
Johnny Michaels: “Now the champions have isolated Blitzen, and this is exactly where the challengers cannot afford to stay.”
Eddie Ellington: “Beautiful. Absolutely beautiful.”
Johnny Michaels: “You're admiring two very large men throwing Blitzen around.”
Eddie Ellington: “I'm admiring teamwork. You spent the first five minutes praising it when the reindeer did it.”
Johnny Michaels: “I knew that was coming.”
Minute 13
The champions continue pressing the advantage through another fast tag.
Karnyx takes Blitzen, lifts him high and plants him with a concrete body slam.
The impact sends Blitzen rolling beneath the bottom rope and onto the arena floor.
Honest Abe immediately begins counting.
One! Two!
Donner moves down the apron, shouting at his partner.
Three! Four!
Blitzen pulls himself onto one knee.
Five!
Marcus the Beastmaster watches from several feet away but does not interfere.
Six!
Blitzen reaches the apron.
Seven!
He gets one arm over the edge.
Eight!
Blitzen rolls beneath the bottom rope and beats the count.
The crowd applauds.
Varak immediately moves toward him.
Johnny Michaels: “Blitzen back inside at eight! That was dangerously close.”
Eddie Ellington: “He should've stayed out there.”
Johnny Michaels: “And accepted a count-out loss in a championship match?”
Eddie Ellington: “He'd still be able to walk tomorrow.”
Johnny Michaels: “That isn't why he came to Fallout.”
Eddie Ellington: “That's the problem.”
Minute 14
Varak grabs Blitzen before the challenger can reach his corner.
The champion twists Blitzen's arm and takes him down into a tight arm bar.
Blitzen grimaces as Varak pulls back.
Donner stretches as far over the top rope as he can.
Blitzen refuses to submit.
He turns onto his side, tries to reduce the pressure and begins inching toward the ropes.
Johnny Michaels: “The champions are changing gears again. They spent the last two minutes throwing Blitzen around, and now Varak is targeting the arm and preventing the tag.”
Eddie Ellington: “That's called versatility. You can't prepare for the Ultimate Beasts because they can beat you ten different ways.”
Johnny Michaels: “And Blitzen is still fighting.”
Eddie Ellington: “Eleven ways.”
Minute 15
Blitzen finally works his way upright and gets free.
Varak reaches for him.
Blitzen suddenly turns and fires backward with the Reindeer Kick.
The mule kick catches Varak squarely and knocks the champion away.
The crowd comes alive.
Blitzen dives toward Donner, but Varak reaches his own corner first.
Karnyx takes the tag and immediately cuts across the ring.
Johnny Michaels: “The Reindeer Kick creates the opening! Blitzen desperately needs to build on this.”
Eddie Ellington: “He kicked Varak while facing the other direction.”
Johnny Michaels: “That's the move.”
Eddie Ellington: “Convenient move.”
Johnny Michaels: “There is nothing illegal about it.”
Eddie Ellington: “I didn't say illegal. I said convenient. Everything is legal when your back is turned, apparently.”
Minute 16
Blitzen manages to reach Donner.
The challengers explode into another tandem sequence.
Blitzen drives through Karnyx with a running shoulder tackle.
Donner follows immediately with another running shoulder tackle from the opposite direction.
Karnyx is rocked between the challengers.
But the champion refuses to fall.
Karnyx catches Blitzen during the next charge, lifts him and drives him down with the Rumble-Slam.
The impact breaks the challengers' momentum instantly.
Johnny Michaels: “Two shoulder tackles and Karnyx still finds the strength to answer with the Rumble-Slam!”
Eddie Ellington: “That's why he's wearing gold. Everybody has a plan until Karnyx picks them up.”
Johnny Michaels: “The challengers are making the champions work for every advantage.”
Eddie Ellington: “And the champions keep finding the advantage. Funny how that works.”
Minute 17
Karnyx grabs Blitzen and bends him backward across his knee with a crushing backbreaker.
Blitzen tumbles away holding his lower back.
Karnyx advances.
Suddenly Blitzen springs toward the ropes.
He climbs quickly and launches backward with a shooting star press.
The spectacular move lands across Karnyx and knocks the champion flat.
Both men remain down for a moment.
The arena begins clapping.
Karnyx crawls toward Varak.
Blitzen crawls toward Donner.
Both tags are made.
Johnny Michaels: “What a response from Blitzen! He absorbs the backbreaker and finds the shooting star press!”
Eddie Ellington: “I'll say this for him. Somebody winds him up very tightly before the show.”
Johnny Michaels: “And now Donner and Varak are legal.”
Eddie Ellington: “Good. Send in the heavy equipment.”
Minute 18
Varak enters and immediately signals to Karnyx.
The champions attempt another tandem attack.
Varak reaches for Donner to set up a snap spinebuster while Karnyx moves into position for a one-hand toss.
But Donner recognizes the trap.
The challenger drives his arms outward, breaks Varak's grip and turns sharply toward Karnyx.
Donner fires the Reindeer One Two, blasting both champions with rapid punches before either can complete the planned combination.
Varak stumbles toward the ropes.
Karnyx is forced back toward the apron.
Johnny Michaels: “Donner reverses the entire double-team attempt! That could have been disastrous, and instead the challenger just stopped both champions.”
Eddie Ellington: “Illegal.”
Johnny Michaels: “What was illegal?”
Eddie Ellington: “He hit two men.”
Johnny Michaels: “They were both trying to attack him!”
Eddie Ellington: “Details.”
Minute 19
The champions recover quickly.
Varak catches Donner before the challenger can reach his corner.
Karnyx is brought back into the sequence.
Varak drives Donner down with the Wrecking Crane.
As Donner tries to rise, Karnyx grabs him and hurls him across the ring with another one-hand toss.
The challenger crashes near the champions' corner.
Marcus the Beastmaster points toward Donner and shouts instructions.
Johnny Michaels: “The champions weathered that reversal and immediately returned to their game plan. Now it is Donner who has been isolated.”
Eddie Ellington: “That's discipline. Lesser teams get angry when something goes wrong. The Ultimate Beasts just go back to work.”
Johnny Michaels: “And Donner needs Blitzen.”
Eddie Ellington: “He needs directions to the parking lot.”
Minute 20
Varak keeps Donner trapped.
The champion snaps the challenger down with a neckbreaker.
Donner tries to rise.
Karnyx steps into the exchange and catches him with a wild haymaker that sends Donner staggering sideways.
The champions complete the tandem sequence and finally separate as Honest Abe restores one legal competitor to the ring.
Donner drops to one knee.
Blitzen pounds the turnbuckle pad.
Johnny Michaels: “The Ultimate Beasts are doing exactly what champions should do right now. They have cut the ring in half and forced Donner to absorb repeated punishment.”
Eddie Ellington: “Finally, you admit it.”
Johnny Michaels: “I've never denied their ability.”
Eddie Ellington: “No, you just keep wasting everyone's time pretending these two snow deer have the same chance.”
Johnny Michaels: “They absolutely have a chance.”
Eddie Ellington: “Then why is Donner currently trying to remember what day it is?”
Minute 21
Varak moves in again.
Donner suddenly surges upward.
The challenger charges across the short distance between them and blasts Varak with the Reindeer Gorge.
The running headbutt knocks Varak backward.
Donner does not hesitate.
He lunges toward his corner.
At the same moment, Varak reaches back and tags Karnyx.
Karnyx enters before Donner can escape.
Johnny Michaels: “Huge Reindeer Gorge from Donner, but Varak had the awareness to get the tag before the challenger could make his own.”
Eddie Ellington: “Exactly. Ring awareness.”
Johnny Michaels: “And now Donner remains trapped.”
Eddie Ellington: “Maybe he should send a postcard.”
Minute 22
Karnyx reaches for Donner and attempts another one-hand toss.
This time Donner is ready.
The challenger shifts behind Karnyx, hooks the champion's arm and reverses the throw attempt.
Karnyx turns.
Donner explodes forward with a running shoulder tackle.
The impact sends Karnyx backward into the ropes.
The crowd surges to its feet.
Blitzen reaches desperately for a tag.
Johnny Michaels: “Beautiful reversal from Donner! He turns the one-hand toss against Karnyx and follows with the shoulder tackle!”
Eddie Ellington: “This is getting irritating.”
Johnny Michaels: “For whom?”
Eddie Ellington: “Me.”
Johnny Michaels: “I suspected as much.”
Minute 23
Karnyx rebounds off the ropes and meets Donner in the center.
The champion catches him.
Karnyx lifts Donner and drives him down with the Rumble-Slam.
Donner rolls over from the impact.
But as Karnyx moves toward him again, Donner forces himself up and throws the Reindeer One Two.
The double punch catches Karnyx and creates enough separation for the champion to retreat toward his corner.
Karnyx tags Varak.
Johnny Michaels: “Back and forth again! Karnyx lands the Rumble-Slam, Donner fires back with the Reindeer One Two, and now Varak returns.”
Eddie Ellington: “That's fine. Let Donner throw punches. Every time he does, he spends more of what little energy he has left.”
Johnny Michaels: “He is still fighting for the Universal Tag Team Championship.”
Eddie Ellington: “And the championship is still on the champions' side of the building.”
Minute 24
Donner finally reaches Blitzen.
The challengers attack immediately.
Donner gets Varak into position and drives him down with the Thunderclap powerbomb.
The ring shakes from the impact.
Blitzen charges in and follows with the Reindeer Clomp.
But Varak powers himself upright and blasts Donner with a running big boot.
The challenger falls backward.
Blitzen tries to keep the pressure on.
Johnny Michaels: “The Thunderclap! Donner planted Varak, and Blitzen followed immediately!”
Eddie Ellington: “And Varak got back up.”
Johnny Michaels: “After a tremendous amount of punishment.”
Eddie Ellington: “Yes, that's the important part. He got back up.”
Johnny Michaels: “You really do reduce everything to whatever helps your argument.”
Eddie Ellington: “That's why I'm good at this.”
Minute 25
The challengers continue their attack.
Donner climbs and launches with another shooting star press onto Varak.
Blitzen immediately follows with another Reindeer Clomp.
The crowd believes momentum may finally have turned.
But Varak pushes himself off the canvas.
The champion charges.
A running big boot catches Blitzen and knocks him backward.
Donner attempts to move into position, but Honest Abe orders the challengers to restore legal order.
Johnny Michaels: “The challengers are throwing everything they have at Varak!”
Eddie Ellington: “And look at him.”
Johnny Michaels: “He is still standing.”
Eddie Ellington: “Exactly. At some point Blitzen and Donner have to ask themselves what exactly they're supposed to do to keep these men down.”
Johnny Michaels: “That may be the most important question in this match.”
Eddie Ellington: “I answered it before the bell. You don't.”
Minute 26
Varak catches Donner as the challengers separate.
The champion drives him backward and climbs toward the top rope.
Donner tries to recover beneath him.
Varak launches.
The Apex Descent crashes directly into Donner, the top-rope shoulder clothesline flattening the challenger.
Varak wastes no time.
He reaches Karnyx.
Across the ring, Donner drags himself toward his own corner.
Blitzen takes the tag.
Karnyx enters for the champions.
The crowd rises.
Johnny Michaels: “Twenty-six minutes of punishment, and now we're back where this match began. Karnyx and Blitzen are legal.”
Eddie Ellington: “Except they're not where they began. Blitzen has been thrown, slammed, stretched and flattened for twenty-six minutes.”
Johnny Michaels: “So has Karnyx.”
Eddie Ellington: “Yes, but Karnyx enjoys this.”
Johnny Michaels: “I'm not certain that makes it less painful.”
Eddie Ellington: “It makes him better at his job.”
Minute 27
Blitzen charges the moment Karnyx enters.
The challenger drives into him with a running shoulder tackle.
Karnyx absorbs the blow.
Blitzen hits the ropes again.
Before he can build enough momentum for another charge, Karnyx steps forward and catches him.
The champion drives Blitzen down.
Then Karnyx looks toward the corner.
The crowd realizes what is coming.
Karnyx climbs.
Donner reaches through the ropes, desperately shouting for Blitzen to move.
Varak steps across the apron and watches.
Marcus the Beastmaster points toward the center of the ring.
Karnyx launches.
GROUND ZERO SPLASH!
The full weight of Karnyx crashes across Blitzen.
Johnny Michaels: “GROUND ZERO SPLASH!”
Eddie Ellington: “That's it!”
Karnyx hooks the leg.
Honest Abe drops into position.
One! Two! Three! The bell rings.
Johnny Michaels: “The Ultimate Beasts retain!”
Eddie Ellington: “Of course they retain! I have been explaining this to you for twenty-seven minutes!”
Karnyx releases the cover and rolls onto one knee.
Varak steps through the ropes.
On the opposite side, Donner enters and immediately checks on Blitzen.
Marcus the Beastmaster retrieves both championships from the official and climbs the ring steps.
Celeste Orion steps toward the center of the ring.
Celeste Orion: “Ladies and gentlemen, your winners... and STILL NPCW UNIVERSAL TAG TEAM CHAMPIONS... KARNYX and VARAK... the ULTIMATE BEASTS!”
The crowd responds with loud boos mixed with acknowledgment of the performance.
Marcus the Beastmaster hands the first championship to Varak.
He gives the other to Karnyx.
The champions raise their titles.
Eddie Ellington: “Look at them, Johnny. Twenty-seven minutes. The challengers threw everything they had at them. Shooting star presses, powerbombs, headbutts, double teams, stomps. And who's holding the gold?”
Johnny Michaels: “The Ultimate Beasts, and they earned this defense tonight. But I will also say this about Blitzen and Donner. They did not come here merely to survive against the champions. They pushed them, they repeatedly broke their isolation tactics, and there were moments in the closing minutes where this building believed the championships might change hands.”
Eddie Ellington: “The building believes a lot of things. Half the people here think Santa Claus is winning the main event.”
Johnny Michaels: “We will deal with that later.”
Eddie Ellington: “I'm trying to prepare them for disappointment.”
Inside the ring, Blitzen is now sitting upright.
Donner helps him to his feet.
Across from them, Karnyx and Varak stand beside Marcus the Beastmaster with the championships over their shoulders.
For a moment, the teams stare at one another.
Blitzen is breathing heavily.
Donner nods once toward the champions.
Varak gives the smallest acknowledgment in return.
Karnyx raises his championship.
Marcus the Beastmaster directs his team toward the ropes.
Johnny Michaels: “No controversy. No excuse. Karnyx hit the Ground Zero Splash, covered Blitzen, and Honest Abe counted three. The Ultimate Beasts remain the Universal Tag Team Champions.”
Eddie Ellington: “And somewhere backstage every other tag team just watched twenty-seven minutes of evidence explaining why.”
Johnny Michaels: “An impressive championship defense to begin Fallout 2026, and an equally courageous challenge from Blitzen and Donner. The challengers came close, but tonight the champions were better.”
Eddie Ellington: “There you go. You finally got there.”
Johnny Michaels: “The Universal Tag Team Championship remains with the Ultimate Beasts, and if this is the pace we're beginning with tonight, we have quite an evening ahead of us.”
WINNERS THE ULTIMATE BEASTS DEFEAT BLITZEN AND DONNER VIA PINFALL AT THE 27:00 MINUTE MARK.
The broadcast returns live to Scrooge's Glacier Plex as the camera sweeps across the packed arena.
At ringside, the Universal Tag Team Championships have been cleared away, replaced by the gleaming North Star Tag Team Championships resting beside the timekeeper.
Referee Honest Abe remains assigned to the ring.
At the broadcast desk, Johnny Michaels looks toward the entrance stage.
Johnny Michaels: “Our championship action continues, and this one connects directly to what we heard earlier tonight from the Blonde Bombshells. Alice and Dorothy said they intended to give the Candy Shoppe Twins a proper welcome to the main roster.”
Eddie Ellington: “Which I thought was very condescending.”
Johnny Michaels: “You thought everything they said was condescending.”
Eddie Ellington: “Because it was. They were standing there with their championships and their kendo sticks talking like the Candy Shoppe Twins are two children arriving for their first day of school.”
Johnny Michaels: “They also said the challengers earned this opportunity and deserved to be treated seriously.”
Eddie Ellington: “That's what people say right before they pat you on the head. I hope Hard Candy and Cotton Candy take those titles just to improve the Bombshells' manners.”
The arena lights brighten into a wash of vivid color.
A sharp, upbeat entrance theme hits.
Sour Candy steps through the curtain first.
She pauses at the top of the ramp and looks around the building with a distinctly unimpressed expression.
Then she turns toward the entrance.
Cotton Candy emerges to one side.
Hard Candy steps out on the other.
The crowd gives the newcomers a strong reaction.
Cotton Candy moves with visible excitement, pointing toward the ring and exchanging a quick fist bump with her partner.
Hard Candy is considerably more focused.
She stares directly at the championship belts visible beside ringside.
Sour Candy gathers both women beside her before starting down the aisle.
Johnny Michaels: “This is the largest match of their main-roster careers. Hard Candy and Cotton Candy have impressed people quickly, but tonight there is no developmental label and no qualifier. They are challenging for the North Star Tag Team Championship.”
Eddie Ellington: “And I've been saying it. These two belong here.”
Johnny Michaels: “They certainly earned the opportunity.”
Eddie Ellington: “No, I mean they belong at the top. Look at them. No nerves.”
Johnny Michaels: “I think there are nerves.”
Eddie Ellington: “That's excitement.”
Johnny Michaels: “How can you tell the difference?”
Eddie Ellington: “Because I like them.”
Cotton Candy slides under the bottom rope.
Hard Candy steps through beside her.
Sour Candy remains on the floor and immediately begins giving instructions.
The sisters move to the center of the ring and look toward the entrance.
The lighting changes.
Black and gold floods the stage.
The reaction rises immediately.
The Blonde Bombshells walk through the curtain.
Alice and Dorothy are no longer wearing the hoodies from their backstage interview.
They are dressed in full ring gear.
The North Star Tag Team Championships are fastened around their waists.
Each woman still carries a kendo stick.
At the top of the ramp, they stop.
Dorothy looks at Alice.
Alice looks down toward the challengers.
The Bombshells simultaneously raise their kendo sticks overhead.
The crowd roars.
Eddie Ellington: “There are the props.”
Johnny Michaels: “You know perfectly well those are part of the Bombshells' presentation.”
Eddie Ellington: “Then maybe Sour Candy should've brought a folding chair as part of hers.”
Johnny Michaels: “That would be considerably different.”
Eddie Ellington: “Only because you like the Bombshells.”
The champions walk down the aisle together.
They do not rush.
They slap a few hands along the barricade, but their attention remains on Hard Candy and Cotton Candy.
At ringside, Alice and Dorothy stop beside Sour Candy.
Sour Candy looks at the kendo sticks.
Dorothy looks down at her own stick.
Dorothy smiles.
Sour Candy does not.
Alice and Dorothy hand the sticks to an attendant before climbing onto the apron.
Johnny Michaels: “And before you start, the kendo sticks are gone.”
Eddie Ellington: “I wasn't going to say anything.”
Johnny Michaels: “I don't believe you.”
Eddie Ellington: “That's hurtful.”
The champions enter.
Both teams immediately meet near the center.
Honest Abe moves between them before words can escalate.
Celeste Orion steps forward.
Celeste Orion: “Ladies and gentlemen, the following contest is scheduled for one fall and is for the NPCW NORTH STAR TAG TEAM CHAMPIONSHIP!”
A loud cheer fills the Glacier Plex.
Celeste Orion turns toward the challengers.
Celeste Orion: “Introducing first, accompanied to the ring by SOUR CANDY... the challengers... HARD CANDY and COTTON CANDY... the CANDY SHOPPE TWINS!”
Cotton Candy raises both arms.
Hard Candy points toward the championships.
Outside, Sour Candy applauds.
Eddie Ellington: “Look at them, Johnny. They're ready.”
Celeste Orion turns toward the opposite corner.
Celeste Orion: “And their opponents... they are the reigning and defending NPCW NORTH STAR TAG TEAM CHAMPIONS... ALICE and DOROTHY... the BLONDE BOMBSHELLS!”
The champions remove the belts from their waists.
Alice raises hers high.
Dorothy raises the other.
The audience responds strongly.
Honest Abe collects the championships.
He displays both belts to the challengers before raising them overhead.
Cotton Candy never takes her eyes off the gold.
The titles are handed outside.
Dorothy steps onto the apron.
Hard Candy does the same.
Alice and Cotton Candy remain legal.
The bell rings.
Minute 1
Alice and Cotton Candy circle quickly before locking up.
Alice catches the challenger's arm and uses an over-the-shoulder arm drag to send Cotton Candy across the ring.
Cotton Candy rolls through and is immediately back on her feet.
As Alice advances, Cotton Candy spins through and catches the champion with a discus clothesline.
Alice drops.
Both women rise almost simultaneously and look toward their corners.
Alice tags Dorothy.
Cotton Candy tags Hard Candy.
Johnny Michaels: “Very fast opening exchange. Alice shows her technique with the arm drag, but Cotton Candy answers with that discus clothesline and neither team gains a clear early advantage.”
Eddie Ellington: “Except Cotton Candy just knocked the champion down. That's an advantage.”
Johnny Michaels: “For several seconds.”
Eddie Ellington: “You start with seconds. Then you take minutes. Then you take championships.”
Minute 2
Hard Candy enters aggressively.
She drives Dorothy toward the challengers' corner and brings Cotton Candy immediately back into the attack.
Hard Candy spins through with a discus lariat while Cotton Candy moves alongside her, helping keep the champion trapped in the corner.
But Dorothy bursts out of the pressure.
She catches Hard Candy by the head and drives her face-first into the canvas with a bulldog.
Cotton Candy retreats to the apron as Honest Abe begins his count.
Johnny Michaels: “The challengers tried to establish their tandem game immediately, but Dorothy fought through it and planted Hard Candy with the bulldog.”
Eddie Ellington: “I liked the idea.”
Johnny Michaels: “Even though it failed?”
Eddie Ellington: “Good ideas don't become bad just because somebody gets dropped on her face.”
Minute 3
Hard Candy keeps Cotton Candy involved for another quick tandem exchange.
Hard Candy catches Dorothy and launches her with a fallaway slam.
Dorothy lands hard but immediately hooks Hard Candy from behind and pulls her into a schoolgirl roll-up.
Honest Abe drops toward the canvas, but Hard Candy powers through before a serious count develops.
The challengers separate as Cotton Candy returns to the apron.
Johnny Michaels: “Dorothy nearly stole one there. She was thrown by the fallaway slam and immediately turned the landing into a pinning opportunity.”
Eddie Ellington: “Stole is the right word. That's not how you welcome somebody to the roster. That's how you pick their pocket.”
Johnny Michaels: “A legal pinning combination is not theft.”
Eddie Ellington: “Tell that to Hard Candy.”
Minute 4
Both women reset cautiously.
Dorothy steps in first and scoops Hard Candy into a body slam.
Hard Candy gets back to her feet quickly.
She slips behind Dorothy, locks around the waist and throws the champion overhead with a German suplex.
Dorothy rolls toward the ropes.
Hard Candy reaches back and tags Cotton Candy.
Johnny Michaels: “Big German suplex from Hard Candy, and again the challengers are showing how comfortable they are making rapid tags.”
Eddie Ellington: “Because they're twins, Johnny. They have instincts you can't manufacture.”
Johnny Michaels: “The Bombshells have been teaming successfully for quite some time.”
Eddie Ellington: “Yes, but they had to learn it. These two probably coordinated their first double-team before they could walk.”
Minute 5
Cotton Candy comes through the ropes and immediately catches Dorothy with another discus clothesline.
This one turns the champion around before she falls to the canvas.
Cotton Candy does not linger.
She reaches back and tags Hard Candy again.
Hard Candy enters as Dorothy pushes herself upright.
Johnny Michaels: “The challengers are making a point of keeping fresh competitors inside.”
Eddie Ellington: “Smart. Make the champions chase you. Make them adjust.”
Johnny Michaels: “And Dorothy has been legal for most of this match so far.”
Eddie Ellington: “Exactly. The welcome committee is starting to look a little tired.”
Minute 6
Dorothy reaches her corner.
Alice tags in.
Almost at the same instant, Hard Candy calls for Cotton Candy.
For several chaotic seconds, all four women are inside the ring.
Dorothy catches Hard Candy with the Emerald City Elbow.
Alice sends Cotton Candy across the ring with another over-the-shoulder arm drag.
Hard Candy responds by catching Dorothy in a wheelbarrow position and throwing her backward with a wheelbarrow suplex.
Across the ring, Cotton Candy secures Alice and delivers the Two Amigos, rolling through a pair of consecutive suplexes.
Honest Abe finally forces both teams to separate.
The crowd applauds the exchange.
Johnny Michaels: “Everything broke loose for a moment! Both teams landed significant offense, and neither side gave the referee much opportunity to breathe.”
Eddie Ellington: “That's the kind of tag wrestling I like.”
Johnny Michaels: “Four competitors in the ring?”
Eddie Ellington: “Organized confusion.”
Johnny Michaels: “There was very little organization.”
Eddie Ellington: “You have no imagination.”
Minute 7
With Dorothy again legal against Hard Candy, the challenger takes control.
Hard Candy catches Dorothy and sends her flying with another fallaway slam.
This time she immediately hooks both legs.
One! Two!
Dorothy kicks out.
Hard Candy looks toward Honest Abe and then back down at the champion.
Dorothy rolls toward the Bombshells' corner.
She reaches up.
Alice takes the tag.
Johnny Michaels: “First strong near fall of this championship match. Hard Candy had Dorothy down for two.”
Eddie Ellington: “And now the champions know.”
Johnny Michaels: “Know what?”
Eddie Ellington: “That the Candy Shoppe Twins didn't come here to be welcomed. They came here to take over.”
Minute 8
Alice enters as Hard Candy moves toward her.
Outside the ring, Sour Candy creeps closer to the apron.
As Alice passes near the ropes, Sour Candy reaches toward her ankle.
Alice spots the movement.
She jerks her leg away before Sour Candy can trip her and turns sharply toward the floor.
Honest Abe immediately warns Sour Candy.
The brief distraction allows both teams to reset.
Alice tags Dorothy.
Hard Candy tags Cotton Candy.
Johnny Michaels: “And Sour Candy just attempted to interfere!”
Eddie Ellington: “Attempted? She was adjusting her position.”
Johnny Michaels: “She reached for Alice's ankle.”
Eddie Ellington: “Maybe Alice had something on her boot.”
Johnny Michaels: “Oh, come on.”
Eddie Ellington: “Sportsmanship comes in many forms.”
Minute 9
Cotton Candy enters but Dorothy catches her immediately.
The champion grabs the challenger by the head, runs forward and drives her down with a bulldog.
Cotton Candy tries to brace herself but cannot stop the impact.
She rolls toward the challengers' corner and tags Hard Candy.
Johnny Michaels: “Dorothy read that perfectly. Cotton Candy never got a chance to establish offense.”
Eddie Ellington: “Fine. Good move.”
Johnny Michaels: “That sounded painful for you.”
Eddie Ellington: “I'm objective.”
Johnny Michaels: “No one watching this broadcast believes that.”
Minute 10
Hard Candy enters.
Dorothy immediately catches her near the ropes.
The champion runs up the turnbuckles, twists through and plants Hard Candy with the Kansas Cyclone tornado DDT.
The crowd explodes.
Hard Candy rolls instinctively toward her corner.
She reaches Cotton Candy.
Johnny Michaels: “Kansas Cyclone! Hard Candy was driven head-first into the canvas.”
Eddie Ellington: “And she still knew where her partner was.”
Johnny Michaels: “That is excellent tag-team awareness.”
Eddie Ellington: “Exactly. Compliment them more often. It improves the show.”
Minute 11
Cotton Candy comes in and meets Dorothy in the center.
Dorothy catches her around the body and drives her down with a spinebuster.
But as Dorothy tries to follow up, Cotton Candy catches the champion's legs.
She turns Dorothy over and sits back into a Boston crab.
Dorothy immediately starts crawling toward the ropes.
After forcing the champion to work for several seconds, Cotton Candy releases and tags Hard Candy.
Johnny Michaels: “Great counteroffense by Cotton Candy. She gets planted by the spinebuster and still finds the Boston crab.”
Eddie Ellington: “That's toughness. The champions expected these two to fold when the match got difficult.”
Johnny Michaels: “The champions never said that.”
Eddie Ellington: “They implied it.”
Johnny Michaels: “You interpreted it.”
Eddie Ellington: “Same thing.”
Minute 12
Hard Candy and Dorothy meet with neither willing to back away.
Dorothy catches Hard Candy with the Emerald City Elbow.
Hard Candy staggers.
As Dorothy moves forward, Hard Candy slips behind her and delivers another German suplex.
Both women hit hard.
Johnny Michaels: “This is becoming a very even physical contest. Every time one team starts pulling ahead, the other answers.”
Eddie Ellington: “Which should terrify the champions.”
Johnny Michaels: “Why only the champions?”
Eddie Ellington: “Because they're the ones with something to lose.”
Minute 13
Dorothy tries to press forward but cannot secure a clean opening.
Hard Candy catches her again.
Another German suplex sends Dorothy across the canvas.
This time the champion stays down for several seconds.
She turns toward her corner and tags Alice.
Johnny Michaels: “Two German suplexes in consecutive minutes, and Dorothy wisely gets out.”
Eddie Ellington: “You said wisely. I say desperately.”
Johnny Michaels: “Those can occasionally describe the same decision.”
Eddie Ellington: “Now you're learning commentary.”
Minute 14
Alice enters with greater speed.
Hard Candy reaches for her, but Alice beats her to the strike and cracks a forearm smash across the challenger's jaw.
Hard Candy staggers toward the ropes.
Alice could continue but instead reaches back.
Dorothy tags in again.
Johnny Michaels: “Quick tag by the champions. Alice lands the forearm and immediately brings Dorothy back with the advantage.”
Eddie Ellington: “They've finally realized they can't let the twins dictate the tags.”
Johnny Michaels: “That is part of championship adjustment.”
Eddie Ellington: “Or panic wearing gold.”
Minute 15
Dorothy catches Hard Candy around the waist and drives her forcefully down with a spinebuster.
The champion hooks the leg.
One!
Hard Candy kicks out.
Dorothy looks surprised by the quick escape.
She immediately tags Alice.
Johnny Michaels: “Only one from the spinebuster. Hard Candy had plenty left.”
Eddie Ellington: “Exactly. Dorothy looked like she expected that to be a bigger moment.”
Johnny Michaels: “It was still a significant move.”
Eddie Ellington: “Not significant enough.”
Minute 16
Alice climbs almost immediately after entering.
Hard Candy gets to her feet.
Alice launches backward with the Wonderland's End Moonsault.
The move crashes into Hard Candy and knocks her down.
Hard Candy tries to counter with her AK-47 Yokosuka Cutter, but Alice's momentum prevents her from establishing the hold cleanly.
Hard Candy rolls toward her corner and gets the tag to Cotton Candy.
Johnny Michaels: “There is Wonderland's End! Alice landed flush!”
Eddie Ellington: “And Hard Candy still made the tag.”
Johnny Michaels: “She did, and that's critical.”
Eddie Ellington: “The champions can't finish them.”
Johnny Michaels: “We're sixteen minutes into the match.”
Eddie Ellington: “Exactly. Plenty of evidence.”
Minute 17
Alice reaches Dorothy and brings her into a coordinated attack.
Alice catches Cotton Candy and plants her with the Rabbit Hole DDT.
As Cotton Candy tries to recover, Dorothy drives her down again with a spinebuster.
The challenger's instincts take over.
Cotton Candy catches Alice's legs during the exchange and momentarily twists her into another Boston crab before the chaotic tandem sequence breaks apart.
Johnny Michaels: “The Bombshells have found another gear, but Cotton Candy continues finding ways to answer even while she's being attacked.”
Eddie Ellington: “That's heart.”
Johnny Michaels: “No disagreement.”
Eddie Ellington: “I knew you'd come around eventually.”
Minute 18
The Bombshells continue their tandem offense.
Alice catches Cotton Candy and drives her down with a Code Red Sunset Flip Powerbomb.
Dorothy follows by sending Cotton Candy through the ropes and out to the floor.
During the exchange, Cotton Candy manages to catch Alice with a side Russian legsweep before tumbling outside.
Honest Abe begins counting.
One! Two! Three!
Cotton Candy gets to her knees.
Four! Five!
She slides back beneath the bottom rope.
Johnny Michaels: “Cotton Candy back inside at five, but the champions are starting to string significant offense together.”
Eddie Ellington: “And yet she came back.”
Johnny Michaels: “She did.”
Eddie Ellington: “That's all that matters. You don't lose championships by looking pretty. You win them by staying alive.”
Minute 19
Cotton Candy wastes no time after returning.
She catches Alice coming forward and drives her down with a side Russian legsweep.
Alice tries to brace for the impact but is taken cleanly to the canvas.
Cotton Candy reaches Hard Candy.
The tag is made.
Johnny Michaels: “Another quick response from the challengers. Cotton Candy got back in and immediately created a tag.”
Eddie Ellington: “They're proving everything I've been saying.”
Johnny Michaels: “Which part specifically?”
Eddie Ellington: “All of it.”
Minute 20
Alice tries to catch Hard Candy in a keylock.
Hard Candy sees it coming.
She turns through the hold, reverses Alice's grip and pulls the champion down.
Then Hard Candy traps Alice in the Kay-Gato-Jime Gogoplata.
Alice's body tightens immediately as Hard Candy cinches the submission.
Honest Abe kneels beside her.
Alice refuses to submit.
She fights for position, gradually shifts her weight and finally gets enough separation to reach Dorothy.
The champion tags out.
Johnny Michaels: “What a reversal! Alice wanted the keylock and Hard Candy turned it directly into the Kay-Gato-Jime Gogoplata!”
Eddie Ellington: “This is it! That's the opening!”
Johnny Michaels: “Alice did not submit.”
Eddie Ellington: “But now she knows Hard Candy can catch her.”
Johnny Michaels: “That much is unquestionably true.”
Minute 21
Dorothy enters and immediately scoops Hard Candy into a body slam.
Hard Candy gets up quickly.
The challenger slips around the champion's waist and delivers another German suplex.
Dorothy rolls toward her corner.
She tags Alice back into the match.
Johnny Michaels: “These two have been trading power moves all night.”
Eddie Ellington: “And every time Dorothy thinks she's accomplished something, Hard Candy throws her over her head.”
Johnny Michaels: “There has been considerably more to the match than that.”
Eddie Ellington: “It's my favorite part.”
Minute 22
Hard Candy brings Cotton Candy back into a tandem exchange.
Hard Candy catches Alice and launches her with a cutthroat Saito suplex.
Cotton Candy follows with the Two Amigos.
But Alice fights through the assault.
She rises and leaps into a double knee drop that catches Hard Candy before the challengers can completely overwhelm her.
All three women scatter as Honest Abe restores order.
Johnny Michaels: “Outstanding resilience from Alice. She takes the Saito suplex and the Two Amigos, then still finds the double knee drop.”
Eddie Ellington: “Because the twins are making her fight at their pace.”
Johnny Michaels: “That was actually Alice interrupting their pace.”
Eddie Ellington: “Don't ruin a perfectly good argument with evidence.”
Minute 23
Alice hooks Hard Candy's arm and throws her with another over-the-shoulder arm drag.
Hard Candy rolls through the landing.
She comes back immediately and catches Alice in a fallaway slam.
Hard Candy then reaches her corner.
Cotton Candy returns.
Johnny Michaels: “Again, neither competitor is keeping control for long.”
Eddie Ellington: “But the challengers look more comfortable every minute.”
Johnny Michaels: “Thirty-seven-minute championship matches are rarely decided by comfort.”
Eddie Ellington: “They're decided by who has more left. And I like the twins.”
Minute 24
Alice catches Cotton Candy with another double knee drop.
The champion follows her toward the ropes.
Cotton Candy suddenly catches Alice and drives her through the ropes with a double crucifix powerbomb to the arena floor.
The crowd gasps.
Alice crashes hard beside the ring.
Honest Abe starts counting.
One! Two!
Dorothy watches from the apron.
Three! Four!
Alice moves.
Five! Six!
She gets one hand on the apron.
Seven! Eight!
Alice rolls back inside.
She immediately reaches Dorothy.
At the same moment Cotton Candy tags Hard Candy.
Johnny Michaels: “My goodness! Alice driven to the floor, and she barely beats the count at eight!”
Eddie Ellington: “That was beautiful.”
Johnny Michaels: “It was effective. I'm not sure beautiful is the word.”
Eddie Ellington: “Championship wrestling is art, Johnny.”
Johnny Michaels: “You become surprisingly philosophical when your preferred team is winning.”
Minute 25
Dorothy explodes into the ring.
She brings Alice back into a quick tandem attack against Hard Candy.
Dorothy drives Hard Candy down with a one-armed neckbreaker slam.
Alice follows immediately with the Rabbit Hole DDT.
Hard Candy absorbs both moves but remains conscious and continues trying to crawl toward her corner.
Johnny Michaels: “The champions recognized the danger immediately. Dorothy and Alice have turned the momentum back with two major tandem moves.”
Eddie Ellington: “They're getting desperate.”
Johnny Michaels: “They are attacking legally within the referee's count.”
Eddie Ellington: “Desperately and legally.”
Minute 26
The Bombshells continue pushing the pace.
Dorothy drives Hard Candy through the ropes.
Alice climbs and launches with another Wonderland's End Moonsault as the challenger's position changes.
During the scramble, Hard Candy catches Dorothy advancing too closely and clotheslines her over the ropes as well.
Now both Hard Candy and Dorothy are outside.
Honest Abe begins counting.
Hard Candy returns at six.
Dorothy follows back inside at five on her own count.
The tandem sequence finally ends.
Johnny Michaels: “Everything is breaking down again! Both competitors hit the floor, but both beat the count.”
Eddie Ellington: “This is what the twins wanted. Turn it into chaos.”
Johnny Michaels: “Why would they specifically want chaos?”
Eddie Ellington: “Because champions like routine. Challengers should break the routine.”
Johnny Michaels: “That is actually a sensible point.”
Eddie Ellington: “You're having a very educational evening.”
Minute 27
Dorothy catches Hard Candy coming through the ropes.
She lifts her and drives her into the canvas with a spinebuster.
Dorothy hooks the leg.
One! Two!
Cotton Candy dives into the ring and breaks the cover.
The crowd erupts.
Honest Abe orders Cotton Candy back to the apron.
Dorothy reaches Alice.
Hard Candy, badly shaken, gets to Cotton Candy.
Both teams tag.
Johnny Michaels: “That may have saved the championship match for the challengers! Cotton Candy had to make the save.”
Eddie Ellington: “That's why she's there!”
Johnny Michaels: “And that's excellent tag-team wrestling.”
Eddie Ellington: “Finally, you sound excited about the right team.”
Minute 28
Alice immediately catches Cotton Candy and uses another over-the-shoulder arm drag.
Cotton Candy responds by taking Alice's legs.
She turns the champion over into a Boston crab.
Alice plants her palms and fights forward.
The champion eventually twists enough to break the hold.
Johnny Michaels: “We're twenty-eight minutes in and Cotton Candy is still finding submissions.”
Eddie Ellington: “She's wearing down Alice's back. That's not random. That's preparation.”
Johnny Michaels: “Especially after that powerbomb to the floor earlier.”
Eddie Ellington: “Exactly. See? We're becoming a team.”
Minute 29
Cotton Candy catches Alice as the champion rises.
She hooks her and drives her into the canvas with a Code Red.
Alice is unable to defend against the sudden move.
The challenger rolls toward her corner.
Hard Candy tags in.
Across the ring, Alice stretches desperately toward Dorothy and gets the tag.
Johnny Michaels: “Big Code Red from Cotton Candy, and now both teams bring in fresh partners.”
Eddie Ellington: “Fresh is a relative word after twenty-nine minutes.”
Johnny Michaels: “Very true.”
Eddie Ellington: “But I still like Hard Candy here.”
Minute 30
Dorothy and Hard Candy collide again.
Dorothy catches the challenger and drives her down with a one-armed neckbreaker slam.
Hard Candy rolls through the pain and gets behind the champion.
Another German suplex sends Dorothy across the canvas.
Both women remain down momentarily.
Johnny Michaels: “Neither woman is giving an inch. The neckbreaker slam from Dorothy, another German suplex from Hard Candy.”
Eddie Ellington: “This is the match the Bombshells didn't expect.”
Johnny Michaels: “I think they absolutely expected a difficult match.”
Eddie Ellington: “Not this difficult.”
Minute 31
Dorothy gets up first and drives Hard Candy down with another spinebuster.
Hard Candy rises more slowly.
She catches Dorothy on the next approach and plants her with a sidewalk slam.
Both women lie on the mat.
The audience begins clapping rhythmically.
Johnny Michaels: “Thirty-one minutes. Both teams are exhausted now.”
Eddie Ellington: “Good. This is where you find out who deserves it.”
Johnny Michaels: “That sounds suspiciously like something the Bombshells said earlier.”
Eddie Ellington: “They occasionally say intelligent things.”
Minute 32
Outside the ring, Sour Candy climbs onto the apron.
She begins shouting toward Dorothy and gestures toward the floor.
Dorothy turns.
Sour Candy tries to lure her attention outside long enough for Hard Candy to attack.
But Dorothy recognizes the setup.
She turns back before Hard Candy can capitalize.
Dorothy charges.
She leaps and crashes across Hard Candy with a splash.
Dorothy covers.
One! Two!
Hard Candy kicks out.
Eddie Ellington: “Come on!”
Johnny Michaels: “Hard Candy survives!”
Eddie Ellington: “And what exactly did Sour Candy do wrong?”
Johnny Michaels: “She was clearly trying to distract Dorothy.”
Eddie Ellington: “Managers communicate.”
Johnny Michaels: “With the opposing wrestler?”
Eddie Ellington: “She's friendly.”
Johnny Michaels: “You have spent the entire evening calling her Sour.”
Minute 33
Dorothy reaches for Hard Candy and attempts another bulldog.
This time Hard Candy reads it.
She shoves Dorothy forward, catches her from behind and drives the champion down with a cutthroat Saito suplex.
Dorothy hits hard.
Hard Candy reaches her corner.
Cotton Candy takes the tag.
Johnny Michaels: “What a counter! Dorothy wanted the bulldog and Hard Candy turned it into that cutthroat Saito suplex.”
Eddie Ellington: “That's the championship opening.”
Johnny Michaels: “You have called several openings tonight.”
Eddie Ellington: “Eventually I'm going to be right.”
Minute 34
Cotton Candy enters, but Dorothy catches her and slams her down with a body slam.
The champion hooks the leg.
One! Two!
Hard Candy dives back inside and breaks the cover.
The audience reacts loudly.
Honest Abe points sharply toward the challengers' corner.
Johnny Michaels: “Another save by the Candy Shoppe Twins!”
Eddie Ellington: “That's twice they've saved each other when the belts were slipping away.”
Johnny Michaels: “And that is exactly what championship-level tag teams have to do.”
Eddie Ellington: “You keep making my case for me.”
Minute 35
Dorothy reaches Alice and the Bombshells attack together.
Dorothy catches Cotton Candy, runs up the turnbuckles and drives her down with the Kansas Cyclone.
As Cotton Candy tries to rise, Alice springs forward with the Wonderland Whirl Hurricanrana and sends the challenger across the ring.
But Cotton Candy refuses to stay down.
She catches Alice and manages to answer with the Two Amigos before the referee forces the Bombshells to separate.
The crowd is now fully standing.
Johnny Michaels: “What a sequence! Kansas Cyclone, Wonderland Whirl, and Cotton Candy still answers with the Two Amigos!”
Eddie Ellington: “They cannot put her away!”
Johnny Michaels: “But the challengers are taking enormous punishment.”
Eddie Ellington: “So are the champions! Look at Alice!”
Minute 36
Dorothy catches Cotton Candy again.
The champion drives her down with the one-armed neckbreaker slam.
Dorothy covers.
One! Two!
Hard Candy dives into the ring.
She breaks the cover again.
The Glacier Plex erupts.
Dorothy looks toward Hard Candy in disbelief.
Honest Abe forces the challenger back out.
Dorothy reaches for Alice.
The tag is made.
Johnny Michaels: “For the third time in the closing stretch, one Candy Shoppe Twin has saved the other!”
Eddie Ellington: “That's championship instinct! They don't have the belts yet, but they understand what it takes!”
Johnny Michaels: “And now Alice is legal.”
Eddie Ellington: “I don't like this.”
Johnny Michaels: “You haven't been shy about telling us.”
Minute 37
Cotton Candy forces herself upright as Alice enters.
Alice wastes no time.
She runs toward the ropes.
Cotton Candy catches her suddenly and drives her down with another Code Red.
The crowd gasps.
Eddie Ellington: “YES! THERE IT IS!”
Johnny Michaels: “Code Red by Cotton Candy!”
Both women are down.
Cotton Candy struggles onto one knee.
Alice uses the ropes to rise.
The challenger advances.
Alice catches her with a kick and creates enough separation to climb.
Cotton Candy turns.
Alice launches.
WONDERLAND'S END MOONSAULT!
Alice crashes across Cotton Candy.
Johnny Michaels: “WONDERLAND'S END!”
Eddie Ellington: “No, no, no! Hard Candy, get in there!”
Alice hooks both legs.
Honest Abe drops into position.
One!
Hard Candy tries to enter.
Dorothy intercepts her.
Two!
Hard Candy reaches desperately toward the cover.
Three!
The bell rings.
The Glacier Plex erupts.
Johnny Michaels: “The Bombshells retain!”
Eddie Ellington: “They were this close!”
Johnny Michaels: “Thirty-seven minutes! What a championship match!”
Alice rolls away from the cover and lies flat on the canvas.
Dorothy releases Hard Candy only after the bell has sounded.
Cotton Candy remains down.
Outside, Sour Candy places both hands on the apron and stares into the ring in frustration.
Honest Abe retrieves the championships.
Celeste Orion steps into the center.
Celeste Orion: “Ladies and gentlemen, your winners... and STILL NPCW NORTH STAR TAG TEAM CHAMPIONS... ALICE and DOROTHY... the BLONDE BOMBSHELLS!”
The referee hands one championship to Alice.
The other goes to Dorothy.
The champions raise the belts.
They are exhausted.
There is none of the casual confidence from their backstage interview now.
Across the ring, Hard Candy helps Cotton Candy sit upright.
Eddie Ellington: “I don't care what the record book says, Johnny. The Candy Shoppe Twins just proved they belong here.”
Johnny Michaels: “On that point, I completely agree with you.”
Eddie Ellington: “They pushed the champions thirty-seven minutes. Hard Candy had Alice trapped in the Kay-Gato-Jime Gogoplata. They survived the Kansas Cyclone. They survived those neckbreaker slams. They saved each other three times late in the match.”
Johnny Michaels: “And Cotton Candy hit that Code Red in the final minute. For one moment, it looked as though the championship might be heading to the challengers.”
Eddie Ellington: “Then Alice got lucky.”
Johnny Michaels: “She got an opening and hit Wonderland's End.”
Eddie Ellington: “That's the champion's version of lucky.”
Inside the ring, Alice and Dorothy look across at the challengers.
Cotton Candy is back on her feet.
She is visibly disappointed.
Hard Candy says something quietly to her sister.
Sour Candy climbs onto the apron but remains outside the ropes.
For several seconds neither team moves.
Then Alice adjusts the championship on her shoulder.
She nods toward the challengers.
Dorothy does the same.
Johnny Michaels: “Remember what the Bombshells said earlier. Tonight, they weren't going to call the Candy Shoppe Twins rookies or prospects. They were going to treat them as challengers.”
Eddie Ellington: “And after that, they better treat them as threats.”
Johnny Michaels: “Absolutely.”
Hard Candy looks at Alice.
Then at the championship.
She nods once.
Cotton Candy does the same.
There is no handshake.
No embrace.
But there is unmistakable recognition between the two teams.
Sour Candy appears considerably less interested in mutual respect.
She gathers her team and points toward the championship before leading them toward the ropes.
Eddie Ellington: “Good. Don't shake their hands. Remember this feeling.”
Johnny Michaels: “There's the heel commentator I know.”
Eddie Ellington: “I'm serious. If I'm the Candy Shoppe Twins, I don't leave tonight thinking I failed. I leave thinking I was one move away.”
Johnny Michaels: “And if I'm the Blonde Bombshells, I leave knowing exactly what kind of challengers have arrived on the Polar Division roster.”
The champions climb adjacent turnbuckles.
Alice and Dorothy raise the North Star Tag Team Championships high above their heads.
The crowd applauds.
Johnny Michaels: “The welcome was certainly delivered, but the Candy Shoppe Twins answered almost every part of it. Thirty-seven minutes of tremendous tag-team wrestling, but when the decisive moment came, Alice landed Wonderland's End, Dorothy prevented the save, and the champions survived.”
Eddie Ellington: “Survived. That's the word.”
Johnny Michaels: “And survival is enough when the championship remains around your waist.”
Eddie Ellington: “For tonight.”
Johnny Michaels: “The Blonde Bombshells remain the North Star Tag Team Champions, but I do not believe we have heard the last of Hard Candy and Cotton Candy.”
Eddie Ellington: “Not even close.”
WINNERS THE BLONDE BOMBSHELLS DEFEAT THE CANDY SHOPPE TWINS VIA PINFALL AT THE 37:00 MINUTE MARK.
The broadcast cuts backstage to the Fallout 2026 interview area.
The deep blue backdrop glows beneath silver lighting, and standing at the center of the set is Smooth Samantha Satin, still dressed in her long shimmering silver-and-blue gown.
Beside her stands the reigning NPCW Universal Champion, Ghost of Christmas Past.
Tonight there is none of the ceremonial presentation sometimes associated with the champion.
Ghost of Christmas Past is dressed entirely for competition.
Black wrestling gear.
Black boots.
And the full black mask that hides every trace of expression.
The Universal Championship rests over one shoulder.
Standing slightly in front of him is his manager, Fenwick Grimbough.
Fenwick wears a dark tailored coat with subtle silver trim and carries himself with the satisfied confidence of someone who considers the outcome of tonight's championship match to be little more than a formality.
Smooth Samantha Satin: “Ladies and gentlemen, later tonight the NPCW Universal Championship will be defended when Ghost of Christmas Past faces Big Bad Wolf. Joining me now are the champion and his manager, Fenwick Grimbough.”
Fenwick Grimbough gives a shallow nod.
The champion remains perfectly still.
Smooth Samantha Satin: “Fenwick, over the last several weeks you have made it very clear that neither you nor the champion believe Big Bad Wolf deserves this opportunity.”
Fenwick Grimbough: “Because he doesn't.”
The answer comes immediately.
Fenwick Grimbough: “There is a rather unfortunate habit developing around NPCW, Samantha. Someone becomes loud enough, violent enough, or irritating enough, and suddenly people begin mistaking attention for accomplishment.”
He gestures toward the championship resting on Ghost of Christmas Past's shoulder.
Fenwick Grimbough: “This is not awarded for attention.”
Smooth Samantha Satin: “Big Bad Wolf would argue that he earned his way into contention.”
Fenwick Grimbough: “Of course he would.”
A faint smile appears.
Fenwick Grimbough: “What else is he supposed to say?”
Samantha turns slightly toward him.
Fenwick Grimbough: “Is he supposed to come onto television and admit that this opportunity arrived before he was prepared for it?”
Smooth Samantha Satin: “You believe he is unprepared?”
Fenwick Grimbough: “Completely.”
Behind him, Ghost of Christmas Past shifts the championship slightly higher onto his shoulder.
Fenwick Grimbough: “Understand something. Big Bad Wolf is dangerous.”
He allows the statement to settle.
Fenwick Grimbough: “I would never be foolish enough to pretend otherwise.”
Smooth Samantha Satin: “That sounds considerably more respectful than some of the things you've said about him.”
Fenwick Grimbough: “Dangerous and deserving are not the same thing.”
He points gently toward the camera.
Fenwick Grimbough: “A wild animal can be dangerous.”
His hand lowers.
Fenwick Grimbough: “That does not mean you hand it the keys to the kingdom.”
Smooth Samantha Satin: “But this isn't a kingdom. It's a championship match.”
Fenwick Grimbough: “Precisely.”
He smiles again.
Fenwick Grimbough: “Which makes his chances even worse.”
Samantha looks past him toward Ghost of Christmas Past.
Smooth Samantha Satin: “Champion, you've remained largely silent about Big Bad Wolf. Do you share Fenwick's assessment?”
The masked champion slowly turns his head toward her.
There is a long silence.
Ghost of Christmas Past: “Yes.”
Samantha waits.
Nothing more comes.
Smooth Samantha Satin: “Simply yes?”
Ghost of Christmas Past: “He does not belong in my ring.”
The words are quiet.
Flat.
Certain.
Smooth Samantha Satin: “He will be in your ring tonight.”
Ghost of Christmas Past: “For a time.”
Fenwick Grimbough smiles broadly.
Fenwick Grimbough: “There you are.”
Smooth Samantha Satin: “You both seem extremely confident considering Big Bad Wolf's size, power, and the damage he is capable of inflicting.”
Fenwick Grimbough: “That is exactly the mistake everyone keeps making.”
He steps a little closer to Samantha's microphone.
Fenwick Grimbough: “They look at Big Bad Wolf and see size.”
One finger rises.
Fenwick Grimbough: “Power.”
A second.
Fenwick Grimbough: “Aggression.”
A third.
Fenwick Grimbough: “And then they stop thinking.”
He lowers his hand.
Fenwick Grimbough: “This man behind me does not stop thinking.”
Ghost of Christmas Past remains motionless.
Fenwick Grimbough: “He studies.”
Fenwick Grimbough: “He waits.”
Fenwick Grimbough: “He lets people become convinced that strength alone can solve the problem in front of them.”
A small laugh escapes him.
Fenwick Grimbough: “And then they discover why he is still champion.”
Smooth Samantha Satin: “So what specifically does Big Bad Wolf lack?”
Fenwick Grimbough: “Discipline.”
Ghost of Christmas Past: “Patience.”
The champion's voice cuts through the answer.
Fenwick Grimbough glances back at him.
Ghost of Christmas Past: “Control.”
He looks directly into the camera.
Ghost of Christmas Past: “He wants to hurt me.”
A pause.
Ghost of Christmas Past: “That is not the same as knowing how to beat me.”
Smooth Samantha Satin: “And you believe that difference decides the match?”
Ghost of Christmas Past: “It already has.”
Fenwick Grimbough gives a satisfied nod.
Fenwick Grimbough: “Exactly.”
Smooth Samantha Satin: “You are speaking as though the result is predetermined.”
Fenwick Grimbough: “Not predetermined.”
He straightens his coat.
Fenwick Grimbough: “Predictable.”
Smooth Samantha Satin: “There is a difference?”
Fenwick Grimbough: “A very important one.”
He gestures toward Ghost of Christmas Past again.
Fenwick Grimbough: “Nothing has been given to the champion.”
His tone becomes more serious.
Fenwick Grimbough: “He has survived challengers who believed they were stronger.”
Fenwick Grimbough: “Faster.”
Fenwick Grimbough: “More vicious.”
Fenwick Grimbough: “More determined.”
He shakes his head.
Fenwick Grimbough: “They all eventually reach the same point.”
Smooth Samantha Satin: “Which is?”
Fenwick Grimbough: “The point where they realize none of it matters if they cannot solve Ghost of Christmas Past.”
The champion adjusts the title on his shoulder.
Smooth Samantha Satin: “And what happens tonight when Big Bad Wolf reaches that point?”
Ghost of Christmas Past steps forward for the first time.
He now stands beside Fenwick, close enough that the black mask fills much of the camera frame.
Ghost of Christmas Past: “He learns.”
Smooth Samantha Satin: “Learns what?”
Ghost of Christmas Past: “Why he was not ready.”
The champion looks down briefly at the Universal Championship.
Then back toward the camera.
Ghost of Christmas Past: “Why he was not worthy.”
His grip tightens around the championship strap.
Ghost of Christmas Past: “And why wanting this…”
He raises the championship slightly.
Ghost of Christmas Past: “…was never enough.”
Smooth Samantha Satin: “You genuinely believe Big Bad Wolf has no chance tonight?”
Fenwick Grimbough: “No.”
Ghost of Christmas Past: “None.”
Samantha studies both men.
Smooth Samantha Satin: “Confidence can be useful, but there are people watching this who may call that arrogance.”
Fenwick Grimbough: “People often confuse accuracy with arrogance when they dislike the answer.”
Smooth Samantha Satin: “And if Big Bad Wolf proves you wrong?”
For the first time, the champion turns fully toward Samantha.
Ghost of Christmas Past: “He won't.”
Silence.
Fenwick Grimbough slowly smiles.
Fenwick Grimbough: “There is your headline, Samantha.”
He looks into the camera.
Fenwick Grimbough: “The challenger has strength.”
Fenwick Grimbough: “He has fury.”
Fenwick Grimbough: “He even has the opportunity.”
His smile disappears.
Fenwick Grimbough: “What he does not have is a chance.”
Ghost of Christmas Past raises the Universal Championship beside his masked face.
Fenwick Grimbough: “Tonight, Big Bad Wolf finds out that there are monsters in NPCW…”
He glances toward the champion.
Fenwick Grimbough: “…and then there are champions.”
Smooth Samantha Satin: “Fenwick Grimbough and the NPCW Universal Champion, Ghost of Christmas Past. The champion could not be more certain, but later tonight Big Bad Wolf gets the opportunity to provide his own answer in the ring.”
Ghost of Christmas Past lowers the championship back onto his shoulder.
He turns and walks away from the interview area.
Fenwick Grimbough pauses beside Samantha.
Fenwick Grimbough: “There will not be an answer.”
He smiles.
Fenwick Grimbough: “Only a lesson.”
Fenwick follows the champion out of frame.
Samantha watches them leave before looking back toward the camera.
Smooth Samantha Satin: “Whether that confidence proves justified, we will find out tonight when the Universal Championship is on the line.”
The Fallout 2026 logo sweeps across the screen.
The broadcast returns to the arena.
The camera sweeps over the capacity crowd inside Scrooge's Glacier Plex before settling on the ring.
The NPCW Universal Championship is displayed beside the timekeeper's table.
Referee Honest Abe stands inside the ropes.
At ringside, Johnny Michaels and Eddie Ellington look toward the entrance stage.
Johnny Michaels: “We have already seen two tremendous championship matches tonight, but now the stakes rise again. The NPCW Universal Championship is about to be defended.”
Eddie Ellington: “And we heard the champion less than an hour ago, Johnny. Ghost of Christmas Past doesn't think Big Bad Wolf deserves this match.”
Johnny Michaels: “More specifically, Ghost of Christmas Past and Fenwick Grimbough said the challenger has no chance.”
Eddie Ellington: “They're right.”
Johnny Michaels: “You don't even want to consider the possibility that Big Bad Wolf can win?”
Eddie Ellington: “I've considered it. I rejected it. That's called analysis.”
Johnny Michaels: “Big Bad Wolf is one of the most powerful competitors in the Polar Division.”
Eddie Ellington: “He's powerful. He's violent. He's unpredictable. Wonderful. Ghost of Christmas Past is the Universal Champion. There's a difference between being dangerous and being the best.”
The lighting throughout the Glacier Plex darkens.
A low growl rolls through the sound system.
Red illumination spreads across the entrance tunnel.
The crowd begins reacting before anyone appears.
Then The Wolf Pack steps through the curtain.
They spread across the stage.
A moment later, Big Bad Wolf emerges between them.
The challenger stops beneath the red light.
His eyes immediately lock onto the ring.
There is no smile.
No acknowledgment of the crowd.
No hesitation.
Big Bad Wolf rolls his shoulders once and starts down the aisle with The Wolf Pack surrounding him.
Johnny Michaels: “Look at the focus on Big Bad Wolf. Whatever Fenwick Grimbough said backstage, the challenger certainly does not appear intimidated.”
Eddie Ellington: “Of course he isn't intimidated. He has an entire pack walking behind him.”
Johnny Michaels: “They are permitted at ringside.”
Eddie Ellington: “Unfortunately.”
Johnny Michaels: “That is an interesting complaint coming from you.”
Eddie Ellington: “I appreciate good management. I don't appreciate a committee.”
Big Bad Wolf reaches ringside.
He climbs onto the apron and steps through the ropes.
The Wolf Pack spreads around his corner on the floor.
The challenger walks directly to the center of the ring and looks toward the entrance.
The red lighting disappears.
For several seconds, the arena is almost entirely black.
Then a narrow white spotlight appears at the top of the stage.
Fenwick Grimbough steps into it.
The reaction immediately turns hostile.
Fenwick adjusts the cuffs of his dark coat and looks toward the ring with complete confidence.
He turns.
A second spotlight appears.
Ghost of Christmas Past walks through the curtain.
The reigning NPCW Universal Champion is dressed exactly as he was during his interview earlier tonight.
Black wrestling gear.
Black boots.
Full black mask.
The Universal Championship rests around his waist.
The champion stops beside Fenwick Grimbough.
He looks down the aisle toward Big Bad Wolf.
The challenger takes a step toward the ropes.
Ghost of Christmas Past does not move.
Eddie Ellington: “There he is. Look at the champion.”
Johnny Michaels: “Absolutely no reaction to Big Bad Wolf.”
Eddie Ellington: “Why should there be? This is exactly what Ghost said earlier. Big Bad Wolf wants to hurt him. Fine. Lots of people want to hurt the champion. Wanting something and accomplishing it are very different things.”
Johnny Michaels: “That confidence could become dangerous.”
Eddie Ellington: “Confidence is dangerous when you're wrong. Ghost of Christmas Past usually isn't.”
Fenwick Grimbough begins walking.
The champion follows.
Neither man reaches toward the fans.
At ringside, Fenwick moves toward the steps while Ghost of Christmas Past climbs onto the apron.
The champion steps through the ropes.
Immediately, Big Bad Wolf moves forward.
Honest Abe gets between them.
Fenwick Grimbough calmly takes his place near the champion's corner.
The music fades.
Celeste Orion steps into the center of the ring.
Celeste Orion: “Ladies and gentlemen, the following contest is scheduled for one fall and is for the NPCW UNIVERSAL CHAMPIONSHIP!”
The Glacier Plex erupts.
Celeste Orion turns toward the challenger.
Celeste Orion: “Introducing first, accompanied to the ring by THE WOLF PACK... the challenger... BIG BAD WOLF!”
Big Bad Wolf raises both arms.
The crowd responds loudly.
The Wolf Pack pounds the apron from the floor.
Celeste Orion turns toward the opposite corner.
Celeste Orion: “And his opponent, accompanied to the ring by FENWICK GRIMBOUGH... he is the reigning and defending NPCW UNIVERSAL CHAMPION... GHOST OF CHRISTMAS PAST!”
The champion removes the title from his waist.
He raises it above his head.
Eddie Ellington: “That's the man everybody else in NPCW is chasing.”
Johnny Michaels: “And tonight Big Bad Wolf gets his opportunity to catch him.”
Ghost of Christmas Past hands the championship to Honest Abe.
The referee raises it overhead.
Big Bad Wolf stares at the championship.
Ghost of Christmas Past stares at Big Bad Wolf.
The title is handed outside.
Honest Abe checks both competitors.
The bell rings.
Minute 1
Big Bad Wolf charges forward immediately, but Ghost of Christmas Past meets him in the center.
The champion wraps both arms around the challenger and squeezes tightly with a bear hug.
Big Bad Wolf responds by reaching over the champion's shoulder and digging his fingers into Ghost's upper back, clawing and striking until the champion's grip loosens.
Ghost of Christmas Past adjusts his hands and cinches the bear hug again.
Honest Abe asks Big Bad Wolf if he submits.
The challenger shakes his head violently.
Big Bad Wolf drives another clawing strike into the champion's back and finally forces separation.
Johnny Michaels: “No feeling-out process at all. Ghost of Christmas Past immediately tests the challenger's body with the bear hug, and Big Bad Wolf responds in the most direct way possible.”
Eddie Ellington: “That's exactly what I mean. Big Bad Wolf doesn't solve problems, he mauls them.”
Johnny Michaels: “It got him out of the hold.”
Eddie Ellington: “This time.”
Minute 2
Big Bad Wolf rushes the champion and tries to scoop him into a powerslam.
Ghost of Christmas Past shifts his weight before the move can be completed.
The champion lands behind Big Bad Wolf, grabs him by the head and shoulder, and uses the challenger's momentum to throw him through the ropes.
Big Bad Wolf crashes to the arena floor.
Honest Abe begins counting.
One! Two!
The Wolf Pack moves closer.
Three! Four!
Big Bad Wolf gets to one knee.
Five! Six!
The challenger grabs the apron.
Seven! Eight!
He pulls himself upright.
Nine!
Big Bad Wolf dives beneath the bottom rope.
The audience roars.
Ghost of Christmas Past stands calmly in the center of the ring.
Eddie Ellington: “Nine! He nearly lost the championship match in the second minute!”
Johnny Michaels: “He was back inside before ten.”
Eddie Ellington: “Barely. Maybe Fenwick was being generous when he said the man wasn't ready.”
Johnny Michaels: “Or perhaps Big Bad Wolf underestimated how quickly the champion could reverse that powerslam.”
Eddie Ellington: “That's called not being ready.”
Minute 3
Ghost of Christmas Past attacks as the challenger rises.
The champion drops an elbow across Big Bad Wolf's upper chest.
Big Bad Wolf absorbs the impact and grabs the champion as Ghost tries to stand.
The challenger twists behind him.
Big Bad Wolf traps Ghost of Christmas Past in the Lycan Lock dragon sleeper.
The crowd rises.
Honest Abe checks the champion.
Big Bad Wolf pulls backward.
Ghost of Christmas Past refuses to submit.
The champion plants his boots beneath him and begins forcing both men toward the ropes.
Johnny Michaels: “There's the Lycan Lock! This is one of the most dangerous weapons Big Bad Wolf possesses.”
Eddie Ellington: “And the champion isn't quitting.”
Johnny Michaels: “He is in trouble.”
Eddie Ellington: “Trouble and beaten aren't the same thing.”
Minute 4
Ghost of Christmas Past finally escapes and immediately tries to lift Big Bad Wolf for an atomic drop.
The challenger blocks it.
Big Bad Wolf slips behind the champion and once again traps him in the Lycan Lock.
This time the hold is deeper.
Ghost of Christmas Past reaches for the ropes but cannot immediately find them.
The champion remains composed.
He gradually works his hips underneath him and turns enough to relieve the pressure.
Johnny Michaels: “A second Lycan Lock in consecutive minutes. Big Bad Wolf has found something that is working.”
Eddie Ellington: “Then he'd better finish it, because every second Ghost survives gives the champion more information.”
Johnny Michaels: “That's an interesting way of looking at it.”
Eddie Ellington: “That's why Fenwick and I understand champions.”
Minute 5
The champion gets free.
Big Bad Wolf tries to stay close.
Ghost of Christmas Past suddenly explodes off the ropes and drives through the challenger with a running clothesline.
Big Bad Wolf tries to brace himself but cannot absorb the full force.
He crashes onto his back.
Ghost remains standing.
Johnny Michaels: “Big running clothesline from the champion.”
Eddie Ellington: “See that? No wasted motion. Big Bad Wolf wants to wrestle like every second is a street fight. Ghost picks the moment and strikes.”
Johnny Michaels: “The champion certainly regained control quickly.”
Minute 6
Ghost of Christmas Past catches the challenger's wrist and attempts to turn him into a top wristlock combined with a heel trip.
Big Bad Wolf widens his stance.
He prevents the trip.
The challenger yanks his arm free and shoves Ghost away before the champion can complete the technique.
Both men reset.
Johnny Michaels: “Good defense by Big Bad Wolf. The champion wanted the wristlock and heel trip, but the challenger neutralized it completely.”
Eddie Ellington: “I'll give him that one.”
Johnny Michaels: “Generous.”
Eddie Ellington: “Write down the time.”
Minute 7
Ghost of Christmas Past steps forward first.
The champion drives a big boot into Big Bad Wolf's chest.
The challenger staggers backward but immediately reaches around Ghost and claws hard across the champion's back.
Ghost jerks forward from the contact.
He turns.
Big Bad Wolf is already waiting.
Johnny Michaels: “Again, Big Bad Wolf answers physical force with something even more physical.”
Eddie Ellington: “He's scratching him.”
Johnny Michaels: “He's clawing at his back.”
Eddie Ellington: “That's what I said with fewer dramatic words.”
Minute 8
Ghost of Christmas Past catches Big Bad Wolf with another running clothesline.
The challenger drops toward the ropes.
As Ghost turns to continue his attack, hands reach through from ringside.
Members of The Wolf Pack grab at the champion's legs.
Ghost of Christmas Past stumbles against the ropes.
Honest Abe's view is obstructed by Big Bad Wolf, who is getting back to his feet.
The champion kicks himself free.
Fenwick Grimbough immediately points across the ring and begins shouting at the referee.
Eddie Ellington: “There! There! Throw them out!”
Johnny Michaels: “The Wolf Pack definitely grabbed the champion's legs.”
Eddie Ellington: “Definitely? They nearly dragged him under the ring!”
Johnny Michaels: “I wouldn't go that far.”
Eddie Ellington: “Why are they still here?”
Johnny Michaels: “Honest Abe did not see enough to eject them.”
Eddie Ellington: “Convenient.”
Minute 9
Ghost of Christmas Past turns his attention back to the challenger.
He runs the ropes and drops the Blast from the Past, the running leg drop crashing across Big Bad Wolf.
The challenger rolls away and forces himself upright.
As Ghost approaches again, Big Bad Wolf catches him around the waist.
The challenger launches the champion overhead with the Pack Leader Suplex.
Ghost lands hard on his shoulders.
Johnny Michaels: “Two major moves in quick succession. Blast from the Past from the champion, then the Pack Leader Suplex from the challenger.”
Eddie Ellington: “And that suplex only happened because the pack bought him time a minute ago.”
Johnny Michaels: “The match has moved on.”
Eddie Ellington: “I hold grudges.”
Minute 10
Ghost of Christmas Past rises and drives another big boot into Big Bad Wolf.
The challenger is knocked backward.
He rebounds off the ropes.
Big Bad Wolf lowers his shoulder and explodes through the champion with the Savage Spear.
Both men hit hard.
Johnny Michaels: “Big boot! Savage Spear! Neither man is backing away now.”
Eddie Ellington: “That spear is exactly why Ghost needs to keep him at distance.”
Johnny Michaels: “It landed cleanly.”
Eddie Ellington: “And the champion is already moving.”
Minute 11
Ghost of Christmas Past reaches his feet first.
Big Bad Wolf charges.
The champion catches him with another big boot.
This one drops the challenger immediately.
Ghost stands over him.
Fenwick Grimbough applauds from ringside.
Johnny Michaels: “Another big boot stops Big Bad Wolf cold.”
Eddie Ellington: “You can only run head-first at a champion so many times before somebody puts a boot in your face.”
Johnny Michaels: “So far, that strategy is certainly paying off for Ghost of Christmas Past.”
Minute 12
As the champion turns toward Big Bad Wolf, movement occurs at ringside.
A member of The Wolf Pack slips something toward the challenger through the ropes.
Big Bad Wolf closes his hand around the concealed object.
Ghost of Christmas Past sees enough movement to become suspicious and moves toward him.
The champion grabs at Big Bad Wolf's wrist.
The challenger pulls away before Ghost can expose what he has been handed.
Honest Abe questions both men but cannot identify anything illegal.
Fenwick Grimbough is furious.
Eddie Ellington: “Oh, that's tremendous. Now they're handing him things!”
Johnny Michaels: “Something certainly changed hands.”
Eddie Ellington: “Something? It wasn't a Christmas card.”
Johnny Michaels: “Whatever it was, Big Bad Wolf has not been able to use it.”
Eddie Ellington: “Because the champion has eyes.”
Minute 13
Ghost of Christmas Past closes the distance before Big Bad Wolf can capitalize.
The champion grabs him by the upper body and sends him through the ropes again.
Big Bad Wolf crashes onto the floor near The Wolf Pack.
Honest Abe counts.
One! Two! Three!
Big Bad Wolf gets up.
Four! Five!
The challenger reaches the apron.
Six!
He rolls back inside.
Ghost of Christmas Past backs away and allows the referee to restore space.
Johnny Michaels: “Second trip to the floor for the challenger. This time he's back at six.”
Eddie Ellington: “The champion keeps controlling where the match happens.”
Johnny Michaels: “And he's also forcing Big Bad Wolf to expend energy repeatedly climbing back inside.”
Eddie Ellington: “Exactly. See how much smarter Ghost is?”
Minute 14
Big Bad Wolf rises into a series of standing punches from Ghost of Christmas Past.
The champion drives repeated fists into the challenger's head.
Big Bad Wolf staggers.
Then suddenly lowers himself and explodes forward.
The Savage Spear drives Ghost backward and into the canvas.
The crowd erupts.
Johnny Michaels: “Big Bad Wolf takes those punches and still finds the Savage Spear!”
Eddie Ellington: “That's the danger. I'll admit it. You let him get one clean lane and he can change everything.”
Johnny Michaels: “That sounded almost respectful.”
Eddie Ellington: “Don't make me regret it.”
Minute 15
Both men rise.
Ghost of Christmas Past again uses standing punches, hammering Big Bad Wolf across the head.
The challenger absorbs them.
Big Bad Wolf scoops the champion into his arms.
He turns and drives Ghost into the canvas with a powerslam.
The ring shakes.
Johnny Michaels: “Big powerslam by the challenger. Big Bad Wolf is starting to string offense together.”
Eddie Ellington: “Then the champion needs to stop letting him get hold of him.”
Johnny Michaels: “That is considerably easier said than done.”
Minute 16
The pace slows for the first time.
Both men circle.
Ghost of Christmas Past appears to anticipate another charge.
Instead, Big Bad Wolf moves around the champion and digs his hand into Ghost's back again.
The clawing attack catches the champion by surprise.
Ghost tries to pull away but cannot immediately escape.
Big Bad Wolf finally releases and shoves him toward the ropes.
Johnny Michaels: “Big Bad Wolf goes back to the back of the champion, and remember the repeated Lycan Locks earlier.”
Eddie Ellington: “That's at least a coherent strategy. Damage the back, damage the neck, try to take away the champion's base.”
Johnny Michaels: “The challenger is doing more than simply attacking wildly.”
Eddie Ellington: “Don't tell him I said that.”
Minute 17
Ghost of Christmas Past catches Big Bad Wolf as he advances.
The champion lifts him.
This time the atomic drop connects.
Big Bad Wolf jolts forward from the impact.
He turns around slowly.
Ghost is already waiting.
Johnny Michaels: “The champion finally lands the atomic drop he tried earlier.”
Eddie Ellington: “And notice the timing. He waited until Big Bad Wolf thought he had momentum.”
Johnny Michaels: “That is the patience Ghost talked about earlier tonight.”
Minute 18
Ghost of Christmas Past hits the ropes.
The champion swings through with the Axe Bomber, crashing his arm across Big Bad Wolf's upper chest and neck.
The challenger drops.
Ghost covers.
One! Two!
Big Bad Wolf kicks out.
The crowd reacts.
Ghost of Christmas Past remains sitting beside him.
Fenwick Grimbough raises two fingers.
Johnny Michaels: “First major two-count for the champion. The Axe Bomber nearly finished it.”
Eddie Ellington: “And look at Ghost. No tantrum. No arguing with Honest Abe. He knows there is more work to do.”
Johnny Michaels: “The challenger is proving harder to put away than Ghost and Fenwick predicted.”
Eddie Ellington: “We're only eighteen minutes in. Give the man time to be right.”
Minute 19
Ghost of Christmas Past pulls Big Bad Wolf upright and delivers another atomic drop.
As the champion turns, The Wolf Pack suddenly attacks from the floor.
One member catches Ghost's leg through the ropes while another strikes him from the opposite side.
The champion is caught between the attacks.
Honest Abe turns too late to see the full exchange.
Big Bad Wolf takes advantage.
He pulls Ghost down into a cover.
One!
Ghost of Christmas Past powers out immediately.
Fenwick Grimbough is nearly beside himself at ringside.
Eddie Ellington: “That's it! Enough! Throw all of them out!”
Johnny Michaels: “Clear interference by The Wolf Pack, and Big Bad Wolf tried to capitalize.”
Eddie Ellington: “Tried? He covered the champion after his friends attacked him! That's not a championship strategy, that's a mugging.”
Johnny Michaels: “Ghost of Christmas Past still kicked out at one.”
Eddie Ellington: “Exactly. That's why he's champion.”
Minute 20
Big Bad Wolf tries to capitalize before Ghost can fully recover.
The challenger backs into the corner.
He charges.
Savage Spear.
This one catches the champion directly.
Ghost of Christmas Past is driven flat onto his back.
Big Bad Wolf remains on his knees beside him.
Johnny Michaels: “Another Savage Spear! That may be the hardest one yet.”
Eddie Ellington: “And I still want The Wolf Pack gone.”
Johnny Michaels: “Honest Abe has warned them.”
Eddie Ellington: “Wonderful. Maybe next he'll write them a strongly worded letter.”
Minute 21
Both men slowly rise.
Big Bad Wolf reaches for the champion.
Ghost of Christmas Past breaks free.
The champion hits the ropes and drops the Blast from the Past running leg drop across Big Bad Wolf.
Ghost immediately covers.
One!
Big Bad Wolf kicks out.
Ghost of Christmas Past gets back to his feet without protest.
Johnny Michaels: “Only one after Blast from the Past.”
Eddie Ellington: “That's fine.”
Johnny Michaels: “Fine?”
Eddie Ellington: “Make him kick out. Make him spend more energy.”
Johnny Michaels: “You said the exact same thing about the Ultimate Beasts earlier.”
Eddie Ellington: “Great champions think alike.”
Minute 22
Ghost of Christmas Past pulls the challenger upright and locks in the bear hug again.
Big Bad Wolf refuses to submit.
The challenger struggles against the grip.
Then Big Bad Wolf manages to shift his hips underneath the champion.
He breaks the hold, scoops Ghost and drives him down with a powerslam.
Both men roll apart.
Johnny Michaels: “The bear hug returns, but Big Bad Wolf turns it into the powerslam.”
Eddie Ellington: “That's the second time the champion has allowed himself to get caught after having control.”
Johnny Michaels: “Are you criticizing Ghost?”
Eddie Ellington: “I'm coaching from a safe distance.”
Minute 23
Big Bad Wolf gets behind the champion.
The challenger traps Ghost of Christmas Past in an abdominal stretch.
Ghost reaches toward the ropes.
Big Bad Wolf pulls harder.
Honest Abe checks the champion.
Ghost refuses to submit.
He gradually shifts his weight and begins working out of the hold.
Johnny Michaels: “Interesting change from Big Bad Wolf. An abdominal stretch now, trying to attack the champion's midsection and back.”
Eddie Ellington: “He's learning.”
Johnny Michaels: “That sounded like praise.”
Eddie Ellington: “Don't become obsessed with this.”
Minute 24
Ghost of Christmas Past breaks free.
The champion knocks Big Bad Wolf down and drops an elbow across his chest.
The challenger rolls toward the ropes.
As Ghost approaches, Big Bad Wolf grabs him and pulls his throat down across the top rope.
Honest Abe immediately begins a count.
Big Bad Wolf releases before five.
Ghost falls backward holding his throat.
Johnny Michaels: “The champion lands the elbow, but Big Bad Wolf uses the ring rope to choke him.”
Eddie Ellington: “And people wonder why I support the champion.”
Johnny Michaels: “You supported him before the match began.”
Eddie Ellington: “I have excellent instincts.”
Minute 25
Ghost of Christmas Past recovers.
He hits the ropes and lands another Blast from the Past.
Big Bad Wolf absorbs the leg drop and rolls through.
As Ghost rises, the challenger gets behind him.
Big Bad Wolf throws the champion overhead with another Pack Leader Suplex.
The crowd applauds the exchange.
Johnny Michaels: “Another huge exchange. Neither competitor can keep the other down for long.”
Eddie Ellington: “That's becoming a problem.”
Johnny Michaels: “For the champion?”
Eddie Ellington: “For both of them. We're twenty-five minutes in and they're still throwing major offense.”
Minute 26
Ghost of Christmas Past catches Big Bad Wolf's wrist and turns it into the top wristlock.
This time the champion manages to combine it with the heel trip, sending the challenger downward.
But Big Bad Wolf rolls through.
The challenger catches Ghost and drives him down with a sit-out facebuster.
Big Bad Wolf hooks the leg.
One! Two!
Ghost of Christmas Past kicks out.
The Wolf Pack reacts from ringside.
Johnny Michaels: “Two! Big Bad Wolf nearly had the Universal Championship!”
Eddie Ellington: “Nearly means he didn't.”
Johnny Michaels: “That was extremely close.”
Eddie Ellington: “And the champion kicked out. That's the part that matters.”
Johnny Michaels: “For the first time tonight, Big Bad Wolf has had Ghost of Christmas Past down for a full two-count.”
Eddie Ellington: “Then Ghost knows exactly how serious this has become.”
Minute 27
Ghost of Christmas Past rolls away from the challenger.
He gets up and drops an elbow onto Big Bad Wolf.
The challenger pushes through the pain.
He gets behind Ghost again and launches him with another Pack Leader Suplex.
Both men stay down.
The crowd begins clapping.
Johnny Michaels: “We are approaching the half-hour mark and both men are wearing down.”
Eddie Ellington: “But Big Bad Wolf keeps going back to those German suplexes.”
Johnny Michaels: “They're working.”
Eddie Ellington: “Which means the champion needs to stop the next one.”
Minute 28
Big Bad Wolf reaches the champion first.
He locks around Ghost's waist and attempts another Pack Leader Suplex.
This time Ghost of Christmas Past hooks his leg around the challenger's.
He blocks the lift.
Big Bad Wolf tries again.
Ghost drives an elbow backward and breaks the grip completely.
The challenger loses the suplex.
Johnny Michaels: “There it is. Ghost neutralizes the Pack Leader Suplex.”
Eddie Ellington: “Because he learns, Johnny. That's what I've been telling you.”
Johnny Michaels: “The champion has certainly adjusted.”
Eddie Ellington: “Meanwhile Big Bad Wolf keeps trying to solve the same problem with the same answer.”
Minute 29
Ghost of Christmas Past explodes forward with another running clothesline.
Big Bad Wolf hits the canvas.
The champion approaches.
Suddenly the challenger traps him from behind.
Lycan Lock.
Ghost's body bends backward.
Honest Abe checks him immediately.
Big Bad Wolf pulls with everything he has left.
The champion refuses to submit.
Johnny Michaels: “The Lycan Lock again! Big Bad Wolf has gone back to the hold that gave Ghost so much trouble early.”
Eddie Ellington: “Get to the ropes!”
Johnny Michaels: “The champion is a long way away.”
Eddie Ellington: “Then get up.”
Johnny Michaels: “That's considerably easier from this side of the table.”
Eddie Ellington: “That's why I chose broadcasting.”
Minute 30
Ghost of Christmas Past finally escapes.
The champion charges and drops another Blast from the Past across Big Bad Wolf.
The challenger answers by catching Ghost in another abdominal stretch as the champion tries to rise.
Ghost forces his way out.
He drops down onto Big Bad Wolf for the cover.
One!
Big Bad Wolf kicks out.
Johnny Michaels: “Only one again, but both men are now fighting through exhaustion.”
Eddie Ellington: “This is what separates champions. Ghost is tired, he's been suplexed, speared, choked and put in the Lycan Lock, and he's still dictating stretches of this match.”
Johnny Michaels: “But Big Bad Wolf is still answering.”
Eddie Ellington: “Unfortunately.”
Minute 31
Ghost of Christmas Past knocks the challenger down and drops another elbow.
Before the champion can move away, Big Bad Wolf grabs him.
Once again the challenger snakes behind Ghost.
Another Lycan Lock.
The crowd rises.
Ghost of Christmas Past immediately fights the hands.
Big Bad Wolf tries to drag him backward toward the center.
Johnny Michaels: “Again! Big Bad Wolf keeps returning to the neck.”
Eddie Ellington: “And every time he does, the champion knows it's coming sooner.”
Johnny Michaels: “Knowing it is coming does not necessarily mean you can stop it.”
Eddie Ellington: “He just has to survive.”
Minute 32
Big Bad Wolf deepens the Lycan Lock.
Ghost of Christmas Past is trapped.
The champion's movements slow.
Honest Abe leans in closely.
Big Bad Wolf screams for the champion to give up.
Ghost refuses.
His boots push against the canvas.
Slowly, inch by inch, the champion moves toward the ropes.
Fenwick Grimbough pounds the apron.
Johnny Michaels: “This may be the most dangerous moment of the match for Ghost of Christmas Past.”
Eddie Ellington: “He's not submitting.”
Johnny Michaels: “He has been trapped in this hold repeatedly.”
Eddie Ellington: “And how many times has he quit?”
Johnny Michaels: “None.”
Eddie Ellington: “Exactly.”
Minute 33
Big Bad Wolf refuses to relinquish his strategy.
The challenger releases just long enough to reposition.
Then he clamps the Lycan Lock back onto Ghost of Christmas Past.
This time the champion cannot stop the initial application.
Ghost is pulled backward again.
The crowd grows louder.
Honest Abe asks him.
The champion shakes his head.
Fenwick Grimbough shouts from ringside.
Big Bad Wolf pulls harder.
Johnny Michaels: “Three consecutive minutes centered around the Lycan Lock! Big Bad Wolf believes he has found the path to the championship.”
Eddie Ellington: “Then why isn't he champion yet?”
Johnny Michaels: “Because Ghost refuses to quit.”
Eddie Ellington: “There's your answer.”
Minute 34
Ghost of Christmas Past finally breaks free.
Both men stagger upright.
Ghost throws a big boot.
It catches Big Bad Wolf cleanly.
The challenger rocks backward.
Then charges.
Savage Spear.
Ghost of Christmas Past is driven into the canvas again.
Neither man can immediately capitalize.
Johnny Michaels: “Big boot by Ghost! Savage Spear by Big Bad Wolf! Both men are down!”
Eddie Ellington: “Get up, Ghost!”
Johnny Michaels: “The champion has been through an extraordinary amount of punishment.”
Eddie Ellington: “So has Big Bad Wolf. This is where the champion proves what Fenwick said earlier.”
Johnny Michaels: “That wanting the championship isn't enough.”
Eddie Ellington: “Exactly.”
Minute 35
Both men struggle upright.
Big Bad Wolf reaches his feet first.
The challenger grabs Ghost of Christmas Past around the upper body.
He tries to position himself for another power attack.
Ghost blocks it.
The champion drives an elbow into Big Bad Wolf's head.
The challenger staggers.
Ghost of Christmas Past steps behind him.
He lifts.
ATOMIC DROP!
Big Bad Wolf's entire body jolts from the impact.
The challenger stumbles forward.
He turns unsteadily.
His legs give way.
Big Bad Wolf falls backward to the canvas.
Ghost of Christmas Past immediately drops over him.
Johnny Michaels: “ATOMIC DROP! THE CHAMPION HAS HIM!”
Eddie Ellington: “Cover him!”
Ghost of Christmas Past hooks the leg.
Honest Abe drops.
One!
The Wolf Pack moves toward the apron.
Fenwick Grimbough immediately steps into their path.
Two!
Big Bad Wolf tries to lift a shoulder.
He cannot.
Three!
The bell rings.
Eddie Ellington: “I TOLD YOU!”
The crowd explodes.
Ghost of Christmas Past rolls away from the challenger and onto one knee.
Fenwick Grimbough immediately turns toward the ring with both arms raised.
The Wolf Pack gathers around their fallen leader's corner.
Johnny Michaels: “Thirty-five minutes! Big Bad Wolf took the Universal Champion deeper than Ghost of Christmas Past and Fenwick Grimbough ever suggested he could, but the champion survives!”
Eddie Ellington: “Survives? He WON, Johnny! Don't soften it because your wolf didn't get the job done.”
Johnny Michaels: “Big Bad Wolf was not my wolf.”
Eddie Ellington: “You spent thirty-five minutes campaigning for him.”
Johnny Michaels: “I spent thirty-five minutes calling an outstanding championship match.”
Celeste Orion steps into the ring as Honest Abe retrieves the Universal Championship.
Celeste Orion: “Ladies and gentlemen, your winner... and STILL NPCW UNIVERSAL CHAMPION... GHOST OF CHRISTMAS PAST!”
Honest Abe hands the championship to Ghost.
The champion rises.
Fenwick Grimbough enters the ring and takes the title from the referee long enough to fasten it securely around Ghost's waist.
Then Fenwick raises the champion's arm.
Eddie Ellington: “There. That's the picture. Ghost of Christmas Past still Universal Champion.”
Johnny Michaels: “And he earned it tonight.”
Eddie Ellington: “Now you're speaking sense.”
Johnny Michaels: “But Eddie, we also have to acknowledge what Big Bad Wolf accomplished. He took the champion thirty-five minutes. He hit multiple Savage Spears. He landed the Pack Leader Suplex repeatedly. He had the champion trapped in the Lycan Lock again and again.”
Eddie Ellington: “And?”
Johnny Michaels: “And he came closer than Ghost or Fenwick believed he would.”
Eddie Ellington: “Close doesn't come with a championship belt.”
Inside the ring, Big Bad Wolf sits against the bottom turnbuckle.
The Wolf Pack surrounds his corner from outside.
The challenger looks across the ring.
Ghost of Christmas Past stands with the championship around his waist.
Fenwick Grimbough says something quietly to him.
The masked champion turns.
He looks directly at Big Bad Wolf.
For several seconds, neither man moves.
Johnny Michaels: “Earlier tonight, Ghost of Christmas Past said Big Bad Wolf had no chance.”
Eddie Ellington: “And who won?”
Johnny Michaels: “The champion.”
Eddie Ellington: “Then I believe the prosecution rests.”
Johnny Michaels: “But if Ghost truly believed there was no threat here, I suspect the last thirty-five minutes have changed at least part of that assessment.”
Eddie Ellington: “You're trying very hard to give Big Bad Wolf a consolation prize.”
Johnny Michaels: “I'm giving him credit.”
Eddie Ellington: “Fine. He was tough.”
Johnny Michaels: “Very tough.”
Eddie Ellington: “Dangerous.”
Johnny Michaels: “Extremely dangerous.”
Eddie Ellington: “Still not champion.”
Johnny Michaels: “Still not champion.”
Fenwick Grimbough steps between the ropes.
Ghost of Christmas Past follows him onto the apron.
Before leaving, the champion turns his masked face back toward Big Bad Wolf one final time.
Then he drops to the arena floor.
Fenwick walks beside him as they begin moving up the aisle.
Eddie Ellington: “Thirty-five minutes of evidence, Johnny. Big Bad Wolf threw everything he had at the champion. He had help from The Wolf Pack, he put Ghost in the Lycan Lock until I thought the man's neck was going to be three inches longer, and he still couldn't beat him.”
Johnny Michaels: “The involvement from The Wolf Pack unquestionably influenced portions of this match, but ultimately they did not decide it. In the final minute, it was Ghost of Christmas Past and Big Bad Wolf in the center of the ring. The champion found the opening, hit the atomic drop and secured the three-count.”
Eddie Ellington: “Which is what champions do.”
Johnny Michaels: “The Universal Championship remains with Ghost of Christmas Past.”
At the top of the ramp, Ghost stops.
He removes the Universal Championship from his waist and raises it above his head.
Fenwick Grimbough applauds beside him.
Down in the ring, Big Bad Wolf watches.
The challenger does not look away.
Johnny Michaels: “Big Bad Wolf may have failed to capture the championship tonight, but after this performance, I cannot imagine anyone questioning whether he belonged in this match.”
Eddie Ellington: “I can.”
Johnny Michaels: “Of course you can.”
Eddie Ellington: “And so can the champion.”
Johnny Michaels: “Whatever Ghost of Christmas Past believes, the record book will show another successful defense. At Fallout 2026, the Universal Champion was pushed to the limit and still found a way to leave with his championship.”
Eddie Ellington: “Just like Fenwick promised.”
Johnny Michaels: “The night continues here at Scrooge's Glacier Plex, and coming up, this event takes an entirely different turn.”
Eddie Ellington: “You mean the demons.”
Johnny Michaels: “I mean the demons.”
Eddie Ellington: “Wonderful.”
WINNER GHOST OF CHRISTMAS PAST DEFEATS BIG BAD WOLF VIA PINFALL AT THE 35:00 MINUTE MARK.
The broadcast returns live to Scrooge's Glacier Plex.
There is a noticeable change in the atmosphere.
The championship belts are gone from ringside.
There is no gold displayed beside the timekeeper.
Nothing is being defended.
Nothing needs to be earned in a ranking.
This one exists because two former allies have reached the point where sharing the same division is no longer enough.
Inside the ring, referee Honest Abe speaks quietly with Celeste Orion before taking his position.
At the broadcast desk, Johnny Michaels looks toward the entrance.
Johnny Michaels: “Three championship matches have already delivered extraordinary competition tonight, but what comes next is something very different. Krampus and Marax the Deceiver were once united within the Demonic Legion. That ended when Marax chose Infernus Rex, and tonight the former brothers-in-arms finally meet one-on-one.”
Eddie Ellington: “Former brothers-in-arms? Johnny, Marax evolved. That's what happened.”
Johnny Michaels: “You call betraying Krampus evolution?”
Eddie Ellington: “I call recognizing that the old boss isn't the strongest boss anymore good career planning.”
Johnny Michaels: “I suppose that tells us where you stand.”
Eddie Ellington: “I stand with progress. And tonight progress is named Marax the Deceiver.”
The arena lights dim.
A deep red glow begins pulsing from the stage.
Dark, deliberate music rolls through the Glacier Plex.
The crowd rises as Count Vlad appears beneath the entrance arch.
He stands perfectly still for several seconds, surveying the building with cool detachment.
Then he turns toward the darkness behind him.
Marax the Deceiver emerges.
There is no hesitation in his stride.
No visible concern.
The former member of the Demonic Legion walks to the edge of the stage and stares toward the ring as Count Vlad moves beside him.
Johnny Michaels: “There is Marax the Deceiver, and since separating himself from Krampus, he has made it abundantly clear that his allegiance now lies elsewhere.”
Eddie Ellington: “As it should.”
Johnny Michaels: “You really believe there is no loyalty owed to the man he once followed?”
Eddie Ellington: “Loyalty is wonderful until it starts costing you victories. Marax looked around, saw Infernus Rex changing the balance of power, and made an intelligent decision.”
Johnny Michaels: “I'm sure Krampus has a different description.”
Eddie Ellington: “Of course he does. People being left behind always complain about the person moving forward.”
Marax the Deceiver begins walking down the aisle.
Count Vlad follows at a measured pace.
A few fans reach over the barricade toward Marax.
He ignores them.
At ringside, Count Vlad stops.
Marax climbs the steps and enters through the ropes.
He moves to the center of the ring.
Then he turns toward the entrance.
The red lighting vanishes.
For a moment, the arena sits in darkness.
Then heavy chains rattle through the sound system.
The crowd erupts.
A harsh white spotlight hits the stage.
Paul “The Grinch” Heyman walks through the curtain first.
He throws both arms outward, soaking in the response before pointing dramatically toward the entrance.
The music intensifies.
Krampus steps into view.
The reaction surges.
Heavy chains hang across his dark ring attire.
His horns rise beneath the arena lights.
His eyes remain locked on Marax the Deceiver.
Johnny Michaels: “And listen to this crowd for Krampus!”
Eddie Ellington: “They're nostalgic.”
Johnny Michaels: “They're supporting a man who was betrayed.”
Eddie Ellington: “There you go again. Betrayed. Such an emotional word.”
Johnny Michaels: “What would you prefer?”
Eddie Ellington: “Reorganized.”
Johnny Michaels: “That may be the most ridiculous description you've given us tonight.”
Paul “The Grinch” Heyman talks constantly as he walks beside Krampus, pointing toward the ring and then toward Count Vlad.
Krampus says nothing.
He reaches ringside.
Marax the Deceiver steps toward the ropes.
Krampus immediately climbs onto the apron.
Honest Abe moves between them before Krampus can enter.
The referee orders Marax backward.
Only then does Krampus step through the ropes.
For several tense seconds, both men stare across the ring.
Paul “The Grinch” Heyman shouts from one side.
Count Vlad remains far quieter on the other.
Eddie Ellington: “Look at Marax. Calm. Focused. That's the difference.”
Johnny Michaels: “Krampus looks focused to me.”
Eddie Ellington: “Krampus looks furious. Fury gets you into fights. Thinking wins them.”
The music fades.
Celeste Orion steps into the center of the ring.
Celeste Orion: “Ladies and gentlemen, the following contest is scheduled for one fall!”
The crowd cheers.
Celeste Orion: “Introducing first, accompanied to the ring by COUNT VLAD... MARAX THE DECEIVER!”
Marax raises one arm without taking his eyes from Krampus.
Celeste Orion turns.
Celeste Orion: “And his opponent, accompanied to the ring by PAUL ‘THE GRINCH’ HEYMAN... KRAMPUS!”
Krampus steps forward.
The crowd responds loudly.
Honest Abe quickly moves between both competitors again.
Johnny Michaels: “No championship required. No stipulation required. These two simply want to settle what happened between them.”
Eddie Ellington: “And Marax is about to prove he made the right choice.”
Honest Abe checks each competitor.
He signals.
The bell rings.
Minute 1
Krampus charges straight into the center of the ring.
Marax the Deceiver meets him.
The former allies immediately begin fighting for position.
Krampus catches Marax's arms, crosses them tightly and pulls him backward into the Evil Embrace, using the cross-arm choke to compress the challenger's upper body.
Honest Abe asks Marax if he wants to submit.
Marax refuses.
He twists one arm free, drops his weight and turns underneath Krampus.
Marax catches the arm and takes Krampus down into a Fujiwara armbar.
Now it is Krampus who must fight the pressure.
Johnny Michaels: “Immediately into submissions. Krampus gets the Evil Embrace, but Marax refuses to submit and answers by attacking the arm.”
Eddie Ellington: “Beautiful counter. That's what I'm talking about. Krampus wanted to overwhelm him. Marax turned it into a wrestling match.”
Johnny Michaels: “One minute in and already both men have tested the other's ability to escape.”
Eddie Ellington: “And Marax looked better doing it.”
Minute 2
Krampus fights out of the armbar and moves toward the ropes.
Marax the Deceiver follows.
The two struggle near the side of the ring closest to Paul “The Grinch” Heyman.
As Honest Abe shifts position to maintain a clear view of their upper bodies, Heyman moves closer.
He produces a length of cord and loops it briefly across Marax's throat from the floor.
Marax jerks backward.
The referee does not see it.
Krampus moves in, but Marax recovers quickly.
The former Legion member catches Krampus from behind and traps him in a crossface chickenwing.
Krampus braces his legs and prevents himself from being pulled completely to the canvas.
Johnny Michaels: “Heyman just used a cord on Marax!”
Eddie Ellington: “There! Thank you! Finally someone sees what Marax has been dealing with.”
Johnny Michaels: “I saw it clearly. Honest Abe did not.”
Eddie Ellington: “Convenient. If Count Vlad had done that, you'd demand an investigation.”
Johnny Michaels: “I would criticize either manager for it.”
Eddie Ellington: “I'll believe that when it happens.”
Minute 3
Krampus breaks the chickenwing and turns.
Marax the Deceiver ducks underneath his reach and locks around the waist.
Marax tries to hoist Krampus for the Karelin Lift.
Krampus widens his stance.
The lift stalls.
Marax tries again.
Krampus drives his weight downward and forces Marax's grip apart.
The attempt is completely neutralized.
Both men separate.
Johnny Michaels: “Marax wanted the Karelin Lift, but Krampus was simply too well planted.”
Eddie Ellington: “Fine. He blocked one.”
Johnny Michaels: “That is an important defensive adjustment.”
Eddie Ellington: “Don't get excited. Marax is collecting information.”
Minute 4
Krampus moves forward aggressively.
He unloads with Holiday Havoc, mixing heavy punches and kicks to Marax's body and head.
Marax covers as best he can.
When Krampus reaches too far with the next strike, Marax catches the arm.
He drops immediately and twists Krampus into another Fujiwara armbar.
Krampus reaches for the ropes.
Johnny Michaels: “The same arm again. Marax has already identified a target.”
Eddie Ellington: “Exactly. Krampus is fighting angry. Marax is fighting intelligently.”
Johnny Michaels: “But Krampus landed several very heavy strikes before that armbar.”
Eddie Ellington: “Nobody said intelligence prevents bruises.”
Minute 5
Krampus powers out.
Marax the Deceiver gets upright.
Krampus snaps forward with the Shadow Strike, the superkick catching Marax high.
The force sends Marax backward.
He stays on his feet.
As Krampus moves forward, Marax ducks behind him.
This time Marax successfully gets Krampus off the canvas with the Karelin Lift and drives him down.
Both men roll apart.
Johnny Michaels: “Shadow Strike lands, but Marax survives it and finally gets the Karelin Lift!”
Eddie Ellington: “There. He learned from minute three.”
Johnny Michaels: “I'll give you that. The first attempt failed. The second succeeded.”
Eddie Ellington: “That's called adaptation. Maybe Krampus should try it sometime.”
Minute 6
Marax the Deceiver rises first.
As he moves toward Krampus, Paul “The Grinch” Heyman begins shouting from ringside.
Heyman loudly mocks Marax, waving his arms and stepping onto the apron just long enough to draw his attention.
Marax turns his head.
Honest Abe immediately orders Heyman down.
Krampus uses the distraction to close distance.
Marax realizes what is happening and turns back, but his focus has already been broken.
Johnny Michaels: “And now Heyman is openly trying to distract Marax.”
Eddie Ellington: “Trying? It's working! How many advantages does Krampus need?”
Johnny Michaels: “Heyman has unquestionably inserted himself into this match more than once.”
Eddie Ellington: “But I'm supposed to believe Marax is the villain here.”
Minute 7
Marax backs toward the ropes, trying to keep Krampus in front of him.
Once again Heyman moves around the ring.
As Honest Abe becomes occupied with Krampus's position, Heyman reaches through and wraps the cord across Marax's throat a second time.
Marax struggles against it.
Heyman releases before the referee turns.
Marax stumbles away from the ropes holding his throat.
Johnny Michaels: “Again! Heyman used that cord again!”
Eddie Ellington: “This is outrageous!”
Johnny Michaels: “I agree.”
Eddie Ellington: “No, you don't agree loudly enough.”
Johnny Michaels: “Marax has every right to be furious about that.”
Eddie Ellington: “Finally. Put that on a plaque.”
Minute 8
Krampus sees the opening.
He catches the weakened Marax around the body.
The crowd rises.
Krampus lifts him upside down.
For one suspended moment, Marax hangs helplessly.
Then Krampus drives him head-first into the canvas with the Demonic Driver tombstone piledriver.
The ring shakes.
Johnny Michaels: “DEMONIC DRIVER!”
Eddie Ellington: “After Heyman choked him!”
Johnny Michaels: “The move itself was devastating.”
Eddie Ellington: “I'm not arguing with the move. I'm arguing with how he got there.”
Marax rolls onto his side.
Krampus does not cover.
He wants more.
Minute 9
Krampus drags Marax the Deceiver upright.
He unloads with another burst of Holiday Havoc.
Punches land to the head.
A kick catches Marax in the ribs.
Another punch drives him into the turnbuckles.
Marax tries to defend but cannot stop the barrage.
Honest Abe keeps close, watching the strikes.
Johnny Michaels: “Krampus is beginning to overwhelm Marax physically.”
Eddie Ellington: “Because Marax has spent half the match defending himself from two people.”
Johnny Michaels: “That criticism of Heyman is fair.”
Eddie Ellington: “I'm going to record you saying that and play it every week.”
Minute 10
Heyman starts shouting again from ringside.
Marax the Deceiver turns briefly toward him.
But this time Marax appears ready.
As Krampus advances through the distraction, Marax hooks both arms.
He throws Krampus overhead with a butterfly suplex.
The impact stops Krampus cold.
Marax rolls away before Heyman can become involved again.
Johnny Michaels: “Excellent response from Marax. Even with Heyman creating noise at ringside, he caught Krampus coming in.”
Eddie Ellington: “That's why I like him. He is not losing his head.”
Johnny Michaels: “You may have a point there.”
Eddie Ellington: “Of course I do.”
Minute 11
Marax rises but Krampus recovers faster than expected.
Krampus suddenly drives the Shadow Strike into Marax's jaw.
The superkick drops Marax to one knee.
Krampus grabs him before he can fall completely.
Johnny Michaels: “Another Shadow Strike! Marax never saw it coming.”
Eddie Ellington: “He's been dealing with distractions for five minutes. Eventually one gets through.”
Johnny Michaels: “That one came directly from Krampus.”
Eddie Ellington: “Who benefited from everything before it.”
Minute 12
Krampus keeps Marax trapped.
Another wave of Holiday Havoc follows.
Krampus strikes the ribs.
Then the chest.
Then the head.
Marax tries to cover and retreat but is forced backward toward the ropes.
Honest Abe steps between them momentarily when Marax reaches the ropes.
Johnny Michaels: “Krampus has control right now.”
Eddie Ellington: “I'll concede that. But he needs to finish it.”
Johnny Michaels: “You sound almost eager for Krampus to hurry.”
Eddie Ellington: “I'm eager for Marax to get a fair stretch of this match without Heyman sticking his nose in.”
Minute 13
Krampus charges again with another attempt at Holiday Havoc.
This time Marax the Deceiver catches the first strike.
He turns underneath Krampus's arm and tries to trap him in a standing guillotine choke.
Krampus immediately recognizes the danger.
He drives forward, forces Marax backward and prevents the choke from being fully secured.
Marax has no choice but to release.
Johnny Michaels: “Good reversal by Marax, but equally good defense from Krampus. That guillotine never became fully established.”
Eddie Ellington: “That's the first thing Krampus has done tonight that I'll compliment.”
Johnny Michaels: “Only the first?”
Eddie Ellington: “I'm selective.”
Minute 14
The two men collide again.
Krampus snaps another Shadow Strike into Marax.
The kick rocks him.
But Marax catches Krampus as he follows forward.
He hooks both arms and delivers another butterfly suplex.
Both men hit the canvas and stay down for several seconds.
Johnny Michaels: “Superkick from Krampus, butterfly suplex from Marax. Neither man is allowing the other to build sustained momentum.”
Eddie Ellington: “And that's better for Marax.”
Johnny Michaels: “Why?”
Eddie Ellington: “Because every minute Krampus doesn't finish him, Krampus gets more frustrated.”
Minute 15
Marax the Deceiver reaches his feet first and again moves behind Krampus.
He attempts the Karelin Lift.
Krampus drops his center of gravity.
For the second time tonight, Krampus prevents Marax from getting him off the canvas.
Marax releases before he can be countered.
Johnny Michaels: “Another Karelin Lift neutralized.”
Eddie Ellington: “Stop trying that one.”
Johnny Michaels: “Direct coaching from Eddie Ellington.”
Eddie Ellington: “Free of charge.”
Minute 16
The pace momentarily slows as both exhausted competitors watch one another.
Then Heyman suddenly slaps Marax from ringside.
The crowd reacts sharply.
Marax turns toward him.
Honest Abe moves to investigate.
Krampus advances.
Marax whips around and catches Krampus with a hard headbutt.
Krampus stumbles backward.
Heyman backs away before Honest Abe can confront him properly.
Johnny Michaels: “Heyman slapped Marax!”
Eddie Ellington: “How is he still out here?”
Johnny Michaels: “That is now three separate instances of direct physical involvement.”
Eddie Ellington: “And somehow Marax is still standing.”
Johnny Michaels: “And he answered with that headbutt.”
Eddie Ellington: “Good.”
Minute 17
Krampus regains his footing.
He grabs Marax before the former Legion member can follow the headbutt.
Krampus hooks the head.
He drops backward.
Nightmare's End drives Marax into the canvas with the DDT.
Marax tries to brace but cannot.
He lands hard.
Johnny Michaels: “Nightmare's End! Krampus planted him.”
Eddie Ellington: “And still no cover.”
Johnny Michaels: “Krampus may be trying to make this personal rather than efficient.”
Eddie Ellington: “Exactly. That's the difference between the two men.”
Minute 18
Marax the Deceiver survives long enough to catch Krampus advancing.
He locks around the body.
This time the Karelin Lift succeeds.
Marax gets Krampus into the air and drives him down.
Krampus remains on the canvas.
Marax rolls onto one knee.
Johnny Michaels: “There is the Karelin Lift again, and this time Krampus couldn't stop it.”
Eddie Ellington: “That's persistence. I told him to stop trying it, but apparently he doesn't listen to me.”
Johnny Michaels: “You just praised him for doing exactly what you told him not to do.”
Eddie Ellington: “Great competitors know when to ignore advice.”
Minute 19
Marax tries to build on the opening.
Once again Heyman begins taunting him from the floor.
Marax refuses to turn completely this time.
He keeps Krampus in sight.
Marax catches Krampus and executes another Karelin Lift despite the distraction.
Krampus crashes down.
Heyman continues shouting.
Marax turns and points directly at him.
Johnny Michaels: “Marax is finally learning to ignore Heyman.”
Eddie Ellington: “He's been forced to. The man has spent the entire match acting like a carnival barker with a personal vendetta.”
Johnny Michaels: “That description may actually be understated.”
Minute 20
Krampus gets back to his feet.
Marax the Deceiver advances.
Krampus suddenly catches him.
He lifts Marax upside down again.
Demonic Driver.
The tombstone piledriver drives Marax into the canvas.
This time Krampus covers immediately.
One!
Marax kicks out.
Krampus sits up.
He stares at Honest Abe.
Johnny Michaels: “Only one!”
Eddie Ellington: “There you go!”
Johnny Michaels: “That is remarkable resilience from Marax.”
Eddie Ellington: “After two Demonic Drivers, and he still kicked out at one. That's your future right there.”
Johnny Michaels: “That was unquestionably impressive.”
Minute 21
Krampus drags Marax up.
The former Demonic Legion leader runs forward.
He scoops Marax and drives him down with the Krampus Krush running powerslam.
Krampus immediately covers again.
One!
Marax powers out.
Again at one.
The crowd reacts with surprise.
Krampus pounds the mat once.
Eddie Ellington: “ONE AGAIN!”
Johnny Michaels: “Marax refuses to stay down!”
Eddie Ellington: “That's what Krampus didn't understand. He thought leaving the old Legion meant Marax became weaker. He's finding out the opposite.”
Johnny Michaels: “But Marax has taken an enormous amount of punishment.”
Eddie Ellington: “And he's still here.”
Minute 22
Krampus catches Marax again.
He hooks the head and drops him with another Nightmare's End DDT.
On the floor, Count Vlad finally becomes more animated.
He pounds the apron and begins shouting directly toward Marax.
Count Vlad orders him up.
Marax rolls onto one side.
Count Vlad continues speaking, reminding his protégé to focus and recover.
Johnny Michaels: “We have seen Heyman interfere physically several times, but Count Vlad has been considerably more restrained. Right now he is trying to rally Marax.”
Eddie Ellington: “That's called managing.”
Johnny Michaels: “You've been waiting twenty-two minutes to make that comparison.”
Eddie Ellington: “And it was worth it.”
Minute 23
Marax the Deceiver pulls himself up using the ropes.
Krampus advances.
At ringside, Count Vlad moves closer to Honest Abe and steps onto the apron.
The referee turns and orders him down.
Count Vlad reaches toward Honest Abe and attempts to shove him aside.
Before he can complete the action, Krampus sees it.
Krampus grabs Count Vlad's wrist over the top rope and stops the shove.
Honest Abe immediately pulls away and points sharply at Count Vlad, warning him that one more incident will end his presence at ringside.
Count Vlad slowly steps down.
Johnny Michaels: “Now Count Vlad crossed the line!”
Eddie Ellington: “He was trying to communicate.”
Johnny Michaels: “He tried to shove the referee.”
Eddie Ellington: “That is a physical form of communication.”
Johnny Michaels: “You spent the entire match complaining about Heyman.”
Eddie Ellington: “And I stand by every complaint.”
Johnny Michaels: “But that doesn't apply to Count Vlad?”
Eddie Ellington: “Different management philosophies.”
Minute 24
Krampus turns back toward Marax the Deceiver.
Marax catches him before he can establish control.
The two fight through the ropes and spill to the floor.
Marax gets behind Krampus near the barricade.
He locks around the waist.
With a tremendous effort, Marax lifts Krampus and drives him down onto the arena floor with a gutwrench suplex.
The crowd erupts.
Johnny Michaels: “Gutwrench suplex on the floor!”
Eddie Ellington: “That's it! Roll him in!”
Marax drags Krampus toward the apron.
He forces him back beneath the bottom rope.
Marax follows.
Krampus struggles onto one knee.
Marax reaches for him.
Suddenly Krampus explodes upward.
He catches Marax around the body.
Marax tries to twist free.
He cannot.
Krampus charges.
KRAMPUS KRUSH!
The running powerslam drives Marax the Deceiver into the center of the ring.
Johnny Michaels: “KRAMPUS KRUSH!”
Eddie Ellington: “No!”
Krampus hooks the leg.
Honest Abe drops.
One!
Count Vlad moves toward the apron.
Paul “The Grinch” Heyman steps directly in front of him.
Two!
Marax tries to raise his shoulder.
Three!
The bell rings.
The crowd explodes.
Johnny Michaels: “Krampus has done it!”
Eddie Ellington: “After everything Marax survived, one opening decided it!”
Johnny Michaels: “And that is all it takes.”
Krampus rolls away from the cover.
He remains on his back for several seconds, breathing heavily.
Marax the Deceiver lies near him.
Honest Abe raises Krampus's arm.
Celeste Orion steps forward.
Celeste Orion: “Ladies and gentlemen, your winner... KRAMPUS!”
The crowd roars.
Paul “The Grinch” Heyman climbs onto the apron with both arms raised.
Count Vlad moves toward Marax from the opposite side.
Johnny Michaels: “What a battle. Marax the Deceiver survived two Demonic Drivers, multiple Shadow Strikes, Nightmare's End, and an earlier Krampus Krush, but in the final minute Krampus found one more opening.”
Eddie Ellington: “I'm not taking anything away from Krampus's finish, but this match needs an asterisk the size of this building next to Heyman's name.”
Johnny Michaels: “Heyman absolutely interfered repeatedly.”
Eddie Ellington: “Thank you.”
Johnny Michaels: “But Count Vlad also crossed the line late.”
Eddie Ellington: “We're not talking about that.”
Johnny Michaels: “I noticed.”
Eddie Ellington: “What matters is that Marax proved he can stand toe-to-toe with the so-called Alpha Beast.”
Johnny Michaels: “He absolutely proved that. But tonight, the victory belongs to Krampus.”
WINNER KRAMPUS DEFEATS MARAX THE DECEIVER VIA PINFALL AT THE 24:00 MINUTE MARK.
Krampus pushes himself upright.
Heyman steps through the ropes.
Across the ring, Count Vlad is helping Marax the Deceiver to one knee.
Then—
The lights go out.
The entire Glacier Plex disappears into darkness.
The crowd erupts.
Johnny Michaels: “What now?”
Eddie Ellington: “I don't like this.”
A low rumbling sound begins.
Then the massive JumboTron glows red.
Firelight flickers across the screen.
A towering figure appears.
Infernus Rex.
The reaction turns immediately hostile.
Inside the darkened ring, the competitors are visible only as faint silhouettes beneath the red illumination from the screen.
Infernus Rex looks directly into the camera.
Infernus Rex: “Victory.”
A low laugh.
Infernus Rex: “You still believe that word means something.”
The crowd boos.
Krampus looks toward the screen.
Marax the Deceiver remains on one knee.
Infernus Rex: “You cling to an old name.”
The screen briefly flashes an image of Krampus standing before the Demonic Legion.
Infernus Rex: “Alpha Beast.”
The image burns away.
Infernus Rex: “You cling to an old order.”
The symbol of the Demonic Legion appears.
It too burns.
Infernus Rex: “Demonic Legion.”
The Infernal King leans closer.
Infernus Rex: “Both end tonight.”
The crowd grows louder.
Johnny Michaels: “Infernus Rex is declaring the end of everything Krampus once commanded.”
Eddie Ellington: “Maybe because the succession already happened and Krampus refuses to accept it.”
Infernus Rex: “The time of the Alpha Beast is over.”
A pause.
Infernus Rex: “The time of the Demonic Legion is over.”
His expression hardens.
Infernus Rex: “There is only the Infernal Legion now.”
The red glow intensifies.
Infernus Rex: “And you will kneel before it.”
Krampus steps toward the JumboTron.
He spreads both arms.
The crowd responds.
Krampus shouts something toward the screen that cannot be heard over the noise.
Infernus Rex smiles.
Infernus Rex: “Infernal Legion.”
He pauses.
Infernus Rex: “Finish him.”
The JumboTron goes black.
For one heartbeat, the arena is completely dark.
Then the lights return.
The crowd erupts in alarm.
Johnny Michaels: “WAIT A MINUTE!”
Standing inside the ring beside Marax the Deceiver are Abaddon and Wilber “Terrorfang” Townsend.
Eddie Ellington: “Now that's an army.”
Johnny Michaels: “Where did they come from?”
Count Vlad has already backed toward the ropes.
Paul “The Grinch” Heyman realizes what is happening and drops to the floor.
Krampus turns.
Abaddon strikes first.
A massive forearm crashes across the side of Krampus's head.
Krampus stumbles.
Wilber Townsend charges and drives his shoulder into Krampus's ribs.
Marax the Deceiver, still exhausted from the match, pushes himself upright.
He joins them.
Three attackers surround Krampus.
Johnny Michaels: “This was planned! Infernus Rex waited until Krampus had gone through twenty-four minutes with Marax!”
Eddie Ellington: “That's strategy.”
Johnny Michaels: “That's an ambush!”
Eddie Ellington: “An efficiently timed ambush.”
Abaddon grabs Krampus by the throat.
He drives him backward into the corner.
Wilber Townsend unloads with heavy punches to the ribs.
Marax steps forward and drives a forearm across Krampus's face.
Krampus tries to cover.
Three men continue attacking.
Johnny Michaels: “Somebody needs to stop this!”
Eddie Ellington: “Who exactly do you recommend?”
Johnny Michaels: “Officials! Security!”
Eddie Ellington: “I'm sure they're drawing straws backstage.”
Krampus suddenly explodes out of the corner.
He drives an elbow into Wilber Townsend.
Another strike catches Marax.
Krampus grabs Abaddon and drives a headbutt into him.
The crowd erupts.
Johnny Michaels: “Krampus is fighting back!”
Eddie Ellington: “For the moment.”
Krampus lands another shot on Abaddon.
Then Marax catches Krampus from behind.
Wilber Townsend recovers.
The numbers immediately overwhelm him again.
Abaddon drives a brutal strike into Krampus's midsection.
Krampus falls to one knee.
Suddenly—
A single snowflake drifts through the arena lights.
Then another.
Then dozens.
The crowd notices.
A roar begins building throughout the Glacier Plex.
White snowflakes begin falling over the ring.
The red lighting gradually turns icy blue.
Johnny Michaels: “Wait a minute!”
The entrance stage fills with freezing mist.
Jack Frost bursts through the curtain.
The crowd explodes.
Johnny Michaels: “JACK FROST!”
Eddie Ellington: “Oh, terrific.”
Jack Frost sprints down the aisle.
He slides beneath the bottom rope.
Wilber Townsend turns.
Jack Frost drives a hard strike into Wilber's face and knocks him backward.
Marax approaches.
Jack Frost catches him with another shot.
Abaddon steps forward.
Jack Frost squares himself.
Behind him, Krampus rises.
For a moment, the two men stand beside one another.
Jack Frost and Krampus.
Neither looks at the other.
They simply face the opposition.
Across from them stand Marax the Deceiver, Abaddon, and Wilber Townsend.
Three against two.
Johnny Michaels: “After everything that has happened between these men, Jack Frost has come to stand beside Krampus!”
Eddie Ellington: “Very touching. Still three against two.”
Johnny Michaels: “Jack Frost didn't hesitate.”
Eddie Ellington: “He probably should have. Mathematics exists for a reason.”
Krampus flexes his hands.
Jack Frost lowers his stance.
Marax smiles through his exhaustion.
Abaddon steps forward.
Wilber Townsend moves beside him.
The crowd rises in anticipation.
Then—
The lights go out again.
A strange, eerie melody begins playing through Scrooge's Glacier Plex.
Not the infernal rumble of Infernus Rex.
Not the frozen entrance of Jack Frost.
Something different.
Something unfamiliar.
The crowd becomes restless.
Johnny Michaels: “What is this?”
For once, Eddie Ellington has no immediate answer.
Eddie Ellington: “I don't know.”
The eerie music continues.
A pale light flickers once.
Then darkness again.
The music stops.
The lights return.
The reaction from the audience is immediate.
Standing in the center of the ring is Mari Lwyd.
Johnny Michaels: “MARI LWYD!”
Eddie Ellington: “Where did HE come from?”
No one else moves.
Mari Lwyd stands directly between Krampus and Abaddon.
Behind Krampus stands Jack Frost.
Behind Abaddon stand Marax the Deceiver and Wilber Townsend.
Mari Lwyd slowly turns his head.
He looks at Abaddon.
Abaddon stares back.
Then Mari Lwyd turns toward Krampus.
The crowd murmurs.
Krampus does not move.
Jack Frost watches carefully.
Johnny Michaels: “Which side is Mari Lwyd on?”
Eddie Ellington: “I don't think anybody in that ring knows.”
Mari Lwyd looks back toward Abaddon.
A long pause.
Then he attacks.
Mari Lwyd drives directly into Abaddon.
The crowd explodes.
Johnny Michaels: “HE WENT AFTER ABADDON!”
Eddie Ellington: “You've got to be kidding me!”
Abaddon staggers backward.
Mari Lwyd strikes again.
That is all the invitation Krampus needs.
Krampus launches himself at Marax the Deceiver.
Jack Frost attacks Wilber Townsend.
The ring erupts.
Three against three.
Krampus and Marax exchange heavy strikes near one corner.
Jack Frost drives Wilber Townsend backward toward the opposite ropes.
Mari Lwyd and Abaddon collide in the middle of the ring.
Johnny Michaels: “Now it's even! Krampus, Jack Frost, and Mari Lwyd against Marax, Wilber Townsend, and Abaddon!”
Eddie Ellington: “This has completely fallen apart!”
Johnny Michaels: “Mari Lwyd made his choice!”
Eddie Ellington: “For tonight! With that creature I'm not assuming anything beyond the next five seconds!”
Abaddon swings wildly.
Mari Lwyd ducks and drives into him again.
Wilber Townsend throws Jack Frost toward the ropes.
Jack Frost rebounds and launches himself back into the fight.
Marax catches Krampus with a forearm.
Krampus answers with one of his own.
At ringside, Count Vlad shouts instructions.
Paul “The Grinch” Heyman is screaming toward anyone who will listen.
Then the aisle fills.
NPCW security personnel pour through the curtain.
Officials follow.
The crowd boos as they race toward the ring.
Johnny Michaels: “Here comes security!”
Eddie Ellington: “Finally!”
Security slides into the ring from every side.
Several men grab Krampus around the arms and waist.
Others pull Marax the Deceiver backward.
Neither man stops trying to reach the other.
Krampus breaks one arm free.
Marax lunges forward.
More security forces them apart.
On the opposite side, three officials drag Jack Frost away from Wilber Townsend.
Wilber continues shouting over their shoulders.
In the center, it takes multiple security members to separate Mari Lwyd and Abaddon.
Abaddon reaches toward him.
Mari Lwyd stares back.
There is no expression anyone can easily read.
Johnny Michaels: “Look at this! Security can barely contain them!”
Eddie Ellington: “And somebody get Marax out of there! He's already wrestled twenty-four minutes!”
Johnny Michaels: “Your concern suddenly arrives after he helped launch a three-on-one attack.”
Eddie Ellington: “I'm consistent about protecting talent I appreciate.”
Krampus is pushed toward one corner.
Jack Frost joins him.
Security remains between them and the other side.
Mari Lwyd slowly moves beside Krampus.
The audience recognizes the alignment.
On the opposite side of the ring stand Marax the Deceiver, Abaddon, and Wilber “Terrorfang” Townsend.
Security forms a wall between the two groups.
Johnny Michaels: “Look at what we have!”
The camera frames the entire ring.
Krampus.
Jack Frost.
Mari Lwyd.
Across from them—
Marax the Deceiver.
Abaddon.
Wilber “Terrorfang” Townsend.
Johnny Michaels: “Infernus Rex declared the Demonic Legion dead. He ordered the Infernal Legion to finish Krampus.”
Eddie Ellington: “And then Jack Frost and Mari Lwyd ruined the arithmetic.”
Johnny Michaels: “This isn't over.”
Eddie Ellington: “No. Unfortunately for everyone responsible for arena insurance, I think this just got bigger.”
Marax points through the security line at Krampus.
Krampus answers by stepping forward.
Security immediately braces.
Beside him, Jack Frost never takes his eyes from Wilber Townsend.
Mari Lwyd turns his head slowly toward Abaddon.
Abaddon stares directly back.
The eerie music begins again beneath the chaos.
Johnny Michaels: “Krampus won the match tonight, but Infernus Rex wanted something much larger than a victory or defeat.”
The camera closes on Krampus.
Then Marax.
Then Mari Lwyd and Abaddon staring across the divide.
Johnny Michaels: “The battle lines have changed.”
Eddie Ellington: “Changed? Johnny, I think somebody just drew entirely new ones.”
Security continues forcing the two sides farther apart as the Fallout 2026 logo sweeps across the screen.
The broadcast cuts backstage to the Fallout 2026 interview area.
Smooth Samantha Satin stands beneath the silver-and-blue lighting, microphone in hand.
Beside her is an unusual gathering.
Mr. Mason stands closest to Samantha, dressed for his match later tonight. His posture is relaxed. His hands rest loosely at his sides. There is none of the restless anger someone might expect from a man only hours away from a No Disqualification Match with the Master of the Night.
That calm somehow makes him appear more dangerous.
Standing beside him is his sister, Polly Mason.
Polly is already dressed for competition as well. Later tonight she will face Dr. Violetta Voss in a Last Woman Standing Match.
Behind the siblings stands Ace MacDougal, arms folded across his chest, quietly surveying the interview area.
At his feet is Flippers the Penguin.
The small penguin looks between Jack and Polly as though he fully understands the gravity of the conversation.
Notably absent from the gathering are Negropolis and Bigfoot.
Smooth Samantha Satin: “Welcome back to Fallout 2026. I'm joined now by Mr. Mason, Polly Mason, Ace MacDougal, and, of course, Flippers.”
Flippers gives a small chirp.
Ace MacDougal: “He appreciates proper introductions.”
A faint smile crosses Samantha's face.
It disappears as she turns toward Mr. Mason.
Smooth Samantha Satin: “There may not be two matches on tonight's card carrying more personal weight than the ones facing the Mason family.”
Mr. Mason gives a small nod.
Smooth Samantha Satin: “Jack, for months everything surrounding you has been about one objective.”
She pauses.
Smooth Samantha Satin: “Getting Edie home.”
The expression on Mr. Mason's face does not change.
But his left hand slowly closes.
His wedding ring catches the light.
Mr. Mason: “Yes.”
Smooth Samantha Satin: “And now she has been brought home safe.”
Another quiet nod.
Mr. Mason: “She has.”
Smooth Samantha Satin: “Does that change what tonight means?”
Mr. Mason looks at her for several seconds.
When he answers, his voice is low.
Measured.
Almost conversational.
Mr. Mason: “It changes the objective.”
A pause.
Mr. Mason: “It does not erase the conduct.”
Samantha waits.
Mr. Mason: “Bringing my wife home was the emergency.”
He adjusts one wristband.
Mr. Mason: “Tonight is the consequence.”
Behind him, Ace MacDougal watches silently.
Smooth Samantha Satin: “The match with the Master of the Night is No Disqualification. After everything that has happened, people may assume you're going into that ring looking for revenge.”
Mr. Mason tilts his head slightly.
Mr. Mason: “Revenge is a very emotional word.”
Smooth Samantha Satin: “And you don't see it that way?”
Mr. Mason: “No.”
His tone never rises.
Mr. Mason: “This is not anger.”
A beat.
Mr. Mason: “Anger is loud.”
The interview area becomes noticeably quieter.
Mr. Mason: “Anger throws things.”
Another pause.
Mr. Mason: “Anger makes threats it has not properly considered.”
He looks toward the camera.
Mr. Mason: “I've had time to consider this.”
Ace MacDougal gives the slightest nod behind him.
Mr. Mason: “The Master of the Night involved himself in my family.”
Mr. Mason: “He took something that wasn't his.”
Mr. Mason: “He used my wife because he believed hurting her would make me behave the way he wanted.”
His expression remains calm.
Mr. Mason: “That was an error.”
Smooth Samantha Satin: “An error?”
Mr. Mason: “A significant one.”
He folds his hands together.
Mr. Mason: “You see, Samantha, there are moments when someone does not need another warning.”
Mr. Mason: “They do not need another conversation.”
Mr. Mason: “They do not need another opportunity to explain themselves.”
His eyes remain fixed on the camera.
Mr. Mason: “They need correction.”
A low reaction can be heard from the arena crowd watching on the screen.
Mr. Mason: “The lesson plan tonight is remarkably simple.”
He raises one finger.
Mr. Mason: “My wife is home.”
A second.
Mr. Mason: “My family is standing.”
A third.
Mr. Mason: “And the man who thought he could use either of those things against me is going to discover why he should have knocked politely.”
Ace MacDougal glances down.
There is the faintest suggestion of a smile.
Smooth Samantha Satin: “You sound extraordinarily controlled for someone heading into a match where almost anything will be legal.”
Mr. Mason: “That is precisely why I need to be controlled.”
Samantha looks at him.
Mr. Mason: “Mean Jack Mason is very useful.”
He says it matter-of-factly.
Mr. Mason: “But he is useful because I decide when the door opens.”
Another pause.
Mr. Mason: “The Master of the Night seems to believe he understands what lives behind that door.”
The slightest smile appears.
It is not friendly.
Mr. Mason: “Tonight he gets the practical demonstration.”
Smooth Samantha Satin turns toward Polly Mason.
Smooth Samantha Satin: “And that brings us to you, Polly.”
Polly Mason: “Lucky me.”
Smooth Samantha Satin: “Later tonight you face Dr. Violetta Voss in a Last Woman Standing Match.”
The humor disappears from Polly's face.
Smooth Samantha Satin: “Like your brother, this goes well beyond an ordinary wrestling rivalry.”
Polly Mason: “Way beyond.”
Smooth Samantha Satin: “Voss was part of what happened to you.”
Polly Mason nods.
Polly Mason: “She knew the rooms.”
Her voice becomes sharper.
Polly Mason: “She knew the routines.”
Polly Mason: “She knew what buttons people had already tried pressing inside my head, and she thought she could do it better.”
Ace MacDougal's expression darkens.
Polly Mason: “That is what people like Violetta Voss do.”
Polly Mason: “They don't look at a person and see a person.”
She taps her temple.
Polly Mason: “They see a puzzle.”
Polly Mason: “A case study.”
Polly Mason: “Something they can take apart just because they want to know whether they can put it back together wrong.”
Smooth Samantha Satin: “She tried to make you become someone you had already fought very hard to leave behind.”
Polly Mason: “Exactly.”
A pause.
Polly Mason: “And here's the funny part.”
There is no humor in her eyes.
Polly Mason: “She thought remembering the old me would scare me.”
Polly Mason: “It doesn't.”
Polly Mason: “I know her.”
Polly Mason: “I lived with her.”
Polly Mason: “I know exactly what I am capable of when somebody turns all the lights off upstairs.”
She looks directly into the camera.
Polly Mason: “The difference now is that I know how to turn them back on.”
Smooth Samantha Satin: “And tonight you have to keep Dr. Voss down for a count of ten.”
Polly Mason: “No.”
Samantha raises an eyebrow.
Polly Mason: “Tonight Voss has to keep me down for ten.”
A small smile appears.
Polly Mason: “That's her problem.”
Smooth Samantha Satin: “You don't think she can?”
Polly Mason: “Oh, she'll try.”
Polly Mason: “She'll poke at old wounds.”
Polly Mason: “She'll say clever little things.”
Polly Mason: “She'll probably smile while she does it because she thinks knowing how somebody got hurt makes you smarter than them.”
Her smile vanishes.
Polly Mason: “But she made one mistake.”
Smooth Samantha Satin: “Which was?”
Polly Mason: “She met the version of me who survived.”
The arena crowd can be heard cheering.
Polly Mason: “Not the version she studied.”
Polly Mason: “Not the version Dr. Moreau wrote notes about.”
Polly Mason: “Me.”
She points to herself.
Polly Mason: “And I don't need to become what they wanted me to become in order to beat her.”
Smooth Samantha Satin: “So what does winning mean tonight?”
Polly Mason considers the question.
Polly Mason: “It means she doesn't get to own that part of my story.”
She glances briefly toward her brother.
Polly Mason: “None of them do.”
Polly Mason: “They took time.”
Polly Mason: “They took choices.”
Polly Mason: “They scared people I love.”
Her expression hardens.
Polly Mason: “But they don't get the ending.”
Mr. Mason: “Correct.”
Polly looks over.
Mr. Mason gives his sister a small nod.
Polly Mason: “See?”
She gestures toward him.
Polly Mason: “Teacher approved.”
Mr. Mason: “Adequate work.”
Polly Mason: “Adequate?”
Mr. Mason: “Room for improvement.”
For the first time, Ace MacDougal chuckles.
Even Samantha smiles.
The tension eases for only a moment.
Smooth Samantha Satin: “Ace, you've been beside this family through a great deal of what has led to tonight.”
Ace MacDougal unfolds his arms.
Smooth Samantha Satin: “What do you say to them before two matches this personal?”
Ace MacDougal looks first toward Polly.
Then toward Mr. Mason.
Ace MacDougal: “Nothing they don't already know.”
He steps slightly forward.
Ace MacDougal: “That's the trick with family.”
Ace MacDougal: “You spend years thinking your job is to give them the right answer.”
He shakes his head.
Ace MacDougal: “Most of the time, your job is just making sure they're still able to hear their own.”
Polly Mason watches him closely.
Ace MacDougal: “Polly knows who she is.”
He looks toward Mr. Mason.
Ace MacDougal: “Jack knows what he's doing.”
Mr. Mason: “That sounds optimistic.”
Ace MacDougal: “I said you know what you're doing. I didn't say I approved of the entire lesson plan.”
Mr. Mason: “Fair.”
Ace MacDougal: “And I know better than to try changing it now.”
Flippers chirps loudly.
Everyone looks down.
Ace MacDougal: “See? Even Flippers agrees.”
Polly Mason: “He usually has better judgment than the rest of us.”
Mr. Mason: “Demonstrably.”
Smooth Samantha Satin: “There is something striking about seeing all of you standing here together after everything that has happened.”
The siblings exchange a glance.
Smooth Samantha Satin: “Does tonight feel like the end of something?”
Mr. Mason thinks about the question.
Mr. Mason: “No.”
The answer is immediate.
Mr. Mason: “Ends are tidy.”
He looks toward Polly.
Then Ace.
Then down toward Flippers.
Mr. Mason: “Families rarely are.”
Polly Mason: “That's one way of putting it.”
Mr. Mason: “Tonight closes two outstanding matters.”
His voice takes on that instructional cadence again.
Mr. Mason: “Polly has a matter with Dr. Voss.”
He looks directly at the camera.
Mr. Mason: “I have a matter with the Master of the Night.”
A pause.
Mr. Mason: “Then tomorrow, we continue.”
Smooth Samantha Satin: “Continue what?”
Mr. Mason: “Living.”
That answer hangs in the air.
Mr. Mason: “That's the part people like them never understand.”
His voice remains quiet.
Mr. Mason: “They think suffering becomes the center of your life because they caused it.”
He shakes his head.
Mr. Mason: “It doesn't.”
Mr. Mason: “It becomes something that happened.”
A beat.
Mr. Mason: “Something you survived.”
Another.
Mr. Mason: “And eventually…”
That faint, restrained smile returns.
Mr. Mason: “…something you teach a lesson about.”
Polly Mason: “There he is.”
Ace MacDougal: “Aye.”
Smooth Samantha Satin: “Then tonight the lessons are Last Woman Standing and No Disqualification.”
Polly Mason: “Different curriculum.”
Mr. Mason: “Same department.”
Flippers chirps again.
Polly Mason: “Department head has spoken.”
Mr. Mason looks down at the penguin.
Mr. Mason: “His administrative style is unconventional.”
Ace MacDougal: “Gets results.”
Mr. Mason: “True.”
Samantha turns back toward the camera.
Smooth Samantha Satin: “Later tonight, Polly Mason faces Dr. Violetta Voss in a Last Woman Standing Match. Before that, Mr. Mason will finally meet the Master of the Night in a No Disqualification Match.”
She looks toward the family beside her.
Smooth Samantha Satin: “For the Masons, neither one is simply about winning.”
Mr. Mason: “Winning would still be preferable.”
Polly Mason: “Much preferable.”
Smooth Samantha Satin: “Point taken.”
Ace MacDougal places one hand on Mr. Mason's shoulder.
Then the other on Polly's.
For a moment, neither sibling says anything.
Flippers waddles forward until he is directly between them.
Polly Mason looks down.
Polly Mason: “All right, professor.”
She looks toward her brother.
Polly Mason: “You ready?”
Mr. Mason adjusts his wristband one final time.
Mr. Mason: “The classroom is prepared.”
Ace MacDougal: “Then let's go.”
Mr. Mason, Polly Mason, Ace MacDougal, and Flippers begin walking out of the interview area together.
Before disappearing from view, Mr. Mason stops.
He looks directly into the camera.
His voice remains almost gentle.
Mr. Mason: “Class is in session.”
He turns and follows his family.
Smooth Samantha Satin watches them leave.
The camera remains on the empty corridor for a moment longer than usual.
Then the Fallout 2026 logo sweeps across the screen.
END PART 1 - GOTO PART 2 HERE
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