Mauro Ranallo: Get ready folks… it’s time for Fanniversary! Tonight, we are live from The Dome at America’s Center in St Louis, Missouri, and we are celebrating 22 years of EBWF!
Nigel McGuinness: Kicking things off, we’ve got Toni Storm in action as she goes one on one with Sakisama!
Toni Storm made her way to the ring first, followed by Sakisama. When both women were in the ring, the referee called for the bell. Storm ran at Sakisama, going for a clothesline, but Sakisama took her down with a big boot, then stomped on her several times. Sakisama pulled Storm to her feet and hit her with a series of punches, then whipped her against the ropes. As Storm ran back towards her, Sakisama went for another big boot, but this time Storm ducked underneath it, then grabbed Sakisama from behind, hitting a back drop. Storm immediately went for the cover, but Sakisama kicked out at 1.
Mauro Ranallo: Toni Storm trying to finish the match quickly there!
Storm pulled Sakisama to her feet and went to whip her into the corner, but Sakisama reversed it, sending Storm into the corner. Sakisama then kicked Storm in the corner several times, before putting her foot against Storm’s throat, choking her! The referee warned Sakisama, then began a five count - 1… 2… 3… 4… Sakisama removed her foot just before the count of 5, then dragged Storm out of the corner and hit her with a snap suplex.
Nigel McGuinness: Sakisama now taking the aggression to Toni Storm!
Sakisama stomped on Storm several times, then pulled her to her feet and hit her with a series of punches. Storm fought back with some right hands of her own, then whipped Sakisama into the corner and charged towards her, going for a hip attack… but Sakisama moved out of the way, causing Storm to collide with the turnbuckles! As Storm stumbled out of the corner, clutching her hip, Sakisama lifted her up and slammed her onto the mat, then hit a knee drop. She hooked the leg and the referee counted - 1… 2… Storm kicked out! Sakisama pulled Storm to her feet and set her up for an STO, but Storm blocked it, then rolled Sakisama up in a small package! The referee counted - 1… 2… Sakisama kicked out! As both women got to their feet, Storm set Sakisama up for Storm Zero… but Sakisama blocked it, countering with a back body drop. As Storm got to her feet, Sakisama whipped her against the ropes, then hit the Academy Award Kick! She hooked the leg and the referee counted - 1… 2… 3!
Mauro Ranallo: It’s over! Sakisama gets the victory!
Sakisama celebrated as a video package began to play recapping the feud between Christian Cage and Johnny Gargano.
"Rebel Heart" by CFO$ hit and Johnny Gargano arrived to a big ovation.
Mauro Ranallo: Johnny Wrestling is set to go one on one with The Instant Classic Christian Cage in a match that Gargano wanted.
Nigel McGuinness: That's righ- wait a minute.
The crowd booed as Gargano was attacked from behind by Christian Cage and Seth Rollins. Christian mounted Johnny and rained down punches.
Mauro Ranallo: Oh come on this isn't right.
Christian went to pull Gargano to his feet but Johnny started fighting back and the crowd cheered but their joy was short lived as Seth grabbed a chair from under the ring and nailed Gargano in the back.
Nigel McGuinness: We need someone to stop this.
Christian recovered and threw Johnny into the steel steps and then told Seth to open the chair.
Mauro Ranallo: Now what?
Rollins opened the chair and put it in a seating position and Christian dragged Gargano to the chair and hit an Unprettier on the chair.
Nigel McGuinness: Oh my God.
Gargano was out cold and officials ran down to stop the assault. Christian and Seth smirked and high-fived each other as they walked up the ramp.
Mauro Ranallo: Christian Cage had no intention of facing Johnny Gargano tonight and decided to attack him from behind like a coward.
Nigel McGuinness: Mauro this is far from over and I wonder what's gonna happen next.
Christy Hemme: The following contest is the Taipei Deathmatch. The rules for this match are simple. Both participants are to wear tape on their fists, dip their fists into glue and then into shards of broken glass thus allowing the shards of glass to stick to their fists. There are no disqualifications, there are no count outs, and falls count anywhere. The only way to win is by pinfall or submission.
Mauro Ranallo: I know that we usually say that we hope that the Red Cross is on standby for matches with such intense hatred between the wrestlers, but with this match, we’ll need the Red Cross.
Nigel McGuinness: I’ve seen deathmatches before, but none of the Taipei variety. I’ve heard that the Taipei Deathmatch is so violent that no TV station would air it. So, it’s a good thing we’re on pay-per-view for this.
“Teenage Nosferatu Pussy” by Rob Zombie could be heard throughout the arena and the crowd instantly started booing as the lighting in the arena changed between shades of red and orange. The booing intensified once the entrance curtain opened, and Jamie Hayter walked out onto the stage. With very little hesitation, Jamie began making her way down the entrance ramp.
Christy Hemme: Introducing first… From Southampton, England… Representing Oedo Tai… JAMIE HAYTER!!!
Mauro Ranallo: The last time we saw Jamie, she took on the returning Becky Lynch. Jamie nearly had the match won, but a distraction from Alexa prevented that.
Nigel McGuinness: The look on Jamie’s face says it all. She wants to destroy Alexa, and a match like this is the best way to do it.
Jamie made it to ringside and climbed up onto the apron. After she entered the ring, Jamie immediately turned her attention toward the entrance while her theme faded out.
“Immortal” by Adema hit the PA System and the crowd began cheering. The cheering only escalated once the entrance curtain opened, and Alexa Bliss walked out onto the stage. Alexa paused for a moment to look around before she began making her way down the entrance ramp.
Christy Hemme: Her opponent… From Columbus, Ohio… Representing the Rebellious Angels… ALEXA BLISS!!!
Mauro Ranallo: Within the last four months, Jamie Hayter has been a persistent thorn in the side of Alexa Bliss.
Nigel McGuinness: Jamie repeatedly attacked Alexa, and even put her on the shelf for a while. If there were ever a way for Alexa to get revenge, it would be in a match like this.
Alexa made it to ringside and climbed up onto the apron before she entered the ring. Her theme faded out as she and Jamie glared at each other while the opening bell rang. They approached each other as if in a boxing match. Alexa was the first to try to throw a punch, but Jamie dodged. Jamie kicked Alexa’s left leg, and that caused her to back up several feet into the northwest corner.
Mauro Ranallo: We’re starting off slow in this match. Neither of these ladies will want to make a mistake.
Nigel McGuinness: Yeah, because one mistake is all it takes.
Alexa stepped out of the corner and approached Jamie before she attempted to throw another punch that Jamie would dodge. The Goddess attempted another punch, but Jamie dodged again and punched Alexa in the face, which caused Alexa to fall to a prone position on the mat. Moments later, Alexa pulled herself up while she used the ropes. When Alexa turned to face Jamie, it was revealed that there was a small cut above Alexa’s left eye.
Mauro Ranallo: We have our first person to bleed in this match.
Nigel McGuinness: That was a scratch compared to how bad that could’ve been.
Incensed, Alexa charged at Jamie and the two started trading punches as the crowd started cheering. As the wild punches flew, Alexa managed to catch Jamie in the stomach before she raked Jamie’s face with the palm of her hand. Jamie was bleeding and Alexa punched her in the forehead. Jamie was on wobbly legs before Alexa hit her in the chest with a knife-edge chop, which caused Jamie to fall to the mat. Alexa dropped down and started grinding her knuckles against the right arm of Jamie.
Mauro Ranallo: Now, Jamie’s down and bleeding. Not only that, but Alexa is grinding that glass into Jamie’s arm.
Nigel McGuinness: That’s smart on Alexa’s part. Damage the most powerful weapon your opponent has.
Alexa then followed up by grinding her knuckles against Jamie’s forehead. This caused Jamie to get back up to her feet on wobbly legs. Alexa punched Jamie in the face, and that knocked Jamie back down. With Jamie down, Alexa punched her in the face – one, two, three, four, five times – before she stepped back. Jamie got up to her feet and Alexa punched her in the face again. Jamie stumbled around the ring like she was drunk before Alexa punched her in the face again. Alexa followed it up by raking Jamie’s forehead with the back of her hand, and this caused Jamie to drop to her knees.
Mauro Ranallo: Jamie is bleeding profusely.
Nigel McGuinness: If she wants to win, she needs to do something quick.
Alexa takes a piece of glass from her hand and starts grinding it into the open wound in Jamie’s forehead. This caused Jamie to scream in pain before she fell to a prone position on the mat. Jamie used the ropes to pull herself up to her feet and turned to face Alexa. Once Alexa approached her, Jamie knocked the Goddess down to the mat with a Big Boot. When Alexa got up to her knees, Jamie approached her and started grinding her knuckles against Alexa’s forehead. Alexa turned over to a seated position in order to try to escape, but there was no escape as Jamie punched Alexa’s forehead – one, two, three, four, five times. Jamie dropped to a knee and continued to grind her knuckles against Alexa’s forehead.
Mauro Ranallo: And now Jamie is taking control of this match.
Nigel McGuinness: That big boot gave her the opening.
Jamie punched Alexa’s forehead – one, two, three, four, five times – before she raked Alexa’s face with the glass on her fist before she let up. This caused Alexa to roll out of the ring with Jamie in hot pursuit. Jamie hit Alexa’s chest with a knife-edged chop and then positioned her against the barricade. With Alexa against the barricade, Jamie punched her in the face – one, two, three times – before she grinded her fist against Alexa’s face.
Mauro Ranallo: Jamie is just sadistic. She’s prolonging Alexa’s suffering.
Nigel McGuinness: Turnabout is fair play. Alexa did the same to her.
Once Jamie let up, Alexa stood up and Jamie punched her in the face. Alexa moved toward the ring and Jamie punched her in the back of the head while she did so. Once both women got back into the ring, Jamie turned Alexa over onto her back and went for the pin. ONE! TWO! THR—NO! Alexa kicked out. Jamie looked up at the referee in disbelief before she pulled Alexa up to a seated position and started grinding the glass-covered tape against Alexa’s forehead again.
Mauro Ranallo: This match is just brutal.
Nigel McGuinness: We were expecting blood, but not enough to fill an entire human body.
Jamie followed up by punching Alexa in the forehead – one, two, three, four, five times. Alexa got up to her knees. As Jamie approached her, Alexa punched Jamie in the stomach before she punched Jamie in the face, which caused Jamie to fall to the mat. Alexa followed it up by hitting Jamie in the stomach with a falling fist drop. This caused Jamie to sit up and get up to her knees while she clutched her stomach. Alexa grabbed the piece of glass she was using earlier and started grinding it against the open wound on Jamie’s forehead again.
Mauro Ranallo: This match has been brutal. I’m not sure how much longer either of these women will last.
Nigel McGuinness: Yeah, they look like they’re on their last legs here.
Back in the ring, Jamie got up to her feet only for Alexa to drop her with the DDT. Instead of going for the pin, Alexa left the ring and returned a few moments later with a sack. Alexa dumped the sack, emptying it of its contents which were thumbtacks.
Mauro Ranallo: Oh, no.
Nigel McGuinness: Shades of Mick Foley. We got thumbtacks!
After she threw the empty sack away, Alexa lied in wait, but wait, what was this? Someone pulled Alexa’s feet out from under her and caused her to fall face-first against the mat. A camera zoomed out to reveal that it was AZM that had pulled Alexa’s feet out from under her. Alexa turned her attention to AZM before Becky ran out to defend Alexa. Becky made a beeline for AZM and the two started brawling with each other. While all of this was going on, Jamie was back on her feet and she waited. Right when Alexa turned around, Jamie ran at her and hit Alexa with a devastating HAYTERADE. The two women landed right in the thumbtacks.
Mauro Ranallo: A HAYTERADE right into the thumbtacks! MAMMA MIA!!!
Nigel McGuinness: It’s over now!
Jamie went for the pin. ONE! TWO! THREE!!! “Teenage Nosferatu Pussy” by Rob Zombie hit the PA system once again as the crowd booed.
Christy Hemme: Here’s your winner, JAMIE HAYTER!!!
Mauro Ranallo: Alexa had this match, but once again, Oedo Tai made its presence known.
Nigel McGuinness: This war is far from over.
Mauro Ranallo: Up next, we’ve got Adam Cole defending the Breakout Championship against arguably the best technical wrestler in the world, Zack Sabre Jr!
ZSJ made his way to the ring first, followed by Adam Cole. When both men were in the ring, the referee called for the bell and the two men locked up. ZSJ took Cole down to the mat and applied a surfboard submission, but Cole fought out of it and as both men got to their feet, Cole put ZSJ in a headlock. ZSJ broke free and hit an uppercut. Cole retaliated with a series of punches, then went to whip ZSJ against the ropes… but ZSJ reversed it, whipping Cole against the ropes before knocking him down with a shoulder block. ZSJ stomped on Cole’s arm several times, then put him in a wristlock. As Cole tried to fight out of it, ZSJ grabbed Cole’s fingers and snapped them back!
Nigel McGuinness: Did you hear that snapping sound, Mauro? Zack Sabre Jr might have broken several fingers there!
As Cole sat on the mat clutching his fingers, ZSJ went for a kick to the chest, but Cole grabbed ZSJ’s leg, blocking it. Cole then pulled ZSJ to the mat, before putting him in a single leg Boston crab! ZSJ was able to get to the ropes, and Cole broke the hold but then stomped on ZSJ’s knee several times. Cole then pulled ZSJ away from the ropes and went for a knee bar, but ZSJ kicked him away and got to his feet. The two men locked up once again and this time ZSJ put Cole in a hammerlock, but Cole broke free by hitting ZSJ with a series of elbow strikes, then whipped ZSJ into the corner. Trapping ZSJ in the corner, Cole hit ZSJ with a series of kicks, then sat him on the top rope and hit a superplex! Cole hooked the leg and the referee counted - 1… 2… ZSJ kicked out! As ZSJ tried to sit up, Cole caught him with a kick to the face, then grabbed ZSJ by the legs and applied a figure four leglock.
Mauro Ranallo: We seem to be seeing a different style from Adam Cole tonight, Nigel… he seems to be going for a lot more submission holds than usual.
Nigel McGuinness: I think he’s trying to beat Zack Sabre Jr at his own game, Mauro… he wants to prove he’s the better man by making the submission specialist submit!
ZSJ got to the ropes once again, and after breaking the hold, Adam Cole hit ZSJ with a series of kicks to the chest. ZSJ pointed to his chin, as if daring Cole to kick him in the face. Cole went for a low superkick… but ZSJ rolled out of the way, then rolled Cole up into a schoolboy pin! The referee counted - 1… 2… Cole kicked out! Both men got to their feet, and Cole went for a clothesline, but ZSJ ducked underneath it and put Cole into a small package! The referee counted once more - 1… 2… Cole reversed it! 1… 2… ZSJ kicked out! Both men got to their feet and took a moment to catch their breath.
Mauro Ranallo: This is like a chess match… both men are trying to balance risk and reward, and one wrong move could prove costly in this high stakes contest!
Cole and ZSJ began exchanging chops to the chest, and after gaining the upper hand, Cole whipped ZSJ into the corner. Cole then ran at ZSJ, going for a corner clothesline, but ZSJ moved out of the corner and hit a drop toe hold, sending Cole head-first into the middle turnbuckle. ZSJ pulled Cole away from the corner and put him in a figure four leglock. As Cole tried to break free, he laid on his back, inadvertently putting both of his shoulders on the mat. The referee began counting - 1… 2… Cole sat back up! Cole then tried to reverse the hold, but ZSJ blocked it and slapped Cole across the face. Cole smirked, then responded with a slap of his own! ZSJ went for another slap, but Cole blocked it and hit ZSJ with several slaps, breaking his legs free from the hold in the process. Both men got to their feet, and Cole hit ZSJ with a superkick, then hooked the leg. The referee counted - 1… 2… ZSJ kicked out! As Cole got to his feet, he stomped on ZSJ several times.
Nigel McGuinness: I think Adam Cole is starting to get frustrated… I wonder if he regrets accepting the challenge from Zack Sabre Jr!
Mauro Ranallo: Cole might be frustrated, Nigel, but I don’t think he regrets a thing… he wants to test himself against the very best, and tonight is arguably the biggest test of his Breakout Championship reign so far.
Cole pulled ZSJ to his feet and went to whip him against the ropes… but ZSJ blocked it, pulled Cole towards him and hit a powerslam! ZSJ then rolled Cole over, putting him in an STF. Cole was able to get to the ropes, and ZSJ broke the hold, then pulled Cole to his feet and hit him with a series of punches. ZSJ lifted Cole up, setting him up for the Zack Driver… but Cole wriggled free and got behind ZSJ, hitting a release German suplex! As Cole got to his feet, he pulled down his right knee pad, then as ZSJ sat up, Cole ran against the ropes, hitting ZSJ with The Boom! Cole hooked the leg and the referee counted - 1… 2… 3!
Nigel McGuinness: It’s over! What a match!
The referee called for the bell and raised Cole’s arm in victory. Cole dropped to his knees, visibly exhausted, then made his way to the back as the referee checked on Zack Sabre Jr.
After the match, the camera cut to the backstage area. The crowd booed as MJF stepped out of his locker room and began making his way towards the ring. As MJF turned the corner, Alex Marvez was waiting for him, microphone in hand. MJF seemed surprised to see him.
MJF: Jesus Christ, Marvez…don’t sneak up on people. Why is it always you? Do I need to take out a restraining order? Listen, I know I’m a handsome guy, but you’re just not my type. I prefer ring rats.
Alex Marvez: Sorry Max, I didn’t mean to startle you. I just wondered if you’d heard what Chris Jericho had to say about you ahead of your match, and whether you had any response?
MJF: Yeah, I heard what Chris had to say, and you know what, he might have been partly right. He said I’ve lost my drive and ambition, and I guess that’s true. But I didn’t lose it out of laziness, I lost that ambition because I just wasn’t being challenged. You had me run a program with Stone Cold? With Christian? To be honest, Marvez, I got bored. You’re looking at a generational talent, Marvez, and that’s what this company wants to put in front of me? But after hearing what Chris had to say, I’ve realized that was maybe a little premature coming to that conclusion. And if there’s one person in this company that can understand being little and premature, it’s Chris Jericho…at least, according to what Jess told Daddy while he was riding her all night long. So, yeah, tonight you’ll get to see who the better man is, Christopher…me. Because my name is Maxwell Jacob Friedman, and I’m better than you…and Jess knows it.
MJF winked towards the camera before heading towards the ring.
“Better Than You” hit and the crowd booed as MJF stepped out onto the stage, accompanied by Richard Holliday.
Nigel McGuinness: And here comes MJF, who we haven’t seen much of recently. Tonight, he goes one on one with Chris Jericho!
When MJF was in the ring, “Judas” by Fozzy hit and made his way to the ring, carrying a black baseball bat with him.
Mauro Ranallo: And here comes Chris Jericho, accompanied by Floyd!
Nigel McGuinness: What kind of imbecile names a baseball bat, Mauro?
As Jericho reached the bottom of the ramp, he pointed Floyd at Richard Holliday, as if to warn him not to get involved. Upon entering the ring, Jericho placed Floyd down in the corner, then locked eyes with MJF. Jericho ran at MJF, going for a clothesline, but MJF took him down with an arm drag, then applied an armbar. Jericho broke free, and as both men got to their feet, MJF hit a suplex. MJF stomped on Jericho several times, then grabbed him by the legs, teasing the Walls of Jericho… but before MJF could put Jericho in his own submission hold, Jericho kicked him away and got back to his feet. Jericho hit MJF with a series of punches, then ran against the ropes and hit a bulldog. Jericho then ran against the ropes, going for the Lionsault… MJF rolled out of the way, but Jericho noticed and landed on his feet!
Mauro Ranallo: What great reflexes from Chris Jericho! I don’t think MJF expected that!
MJF applauded Jericho, then held out his hand, offering to shake Jericho’s hand. Jericho accepted the handshake, then MJF went for an eye poke… but Jericho was ready for it, and he blocked it, then hit MJF with a series of backhand chops. Jericho followed up with a double underhook backbreaker, then hooked the leg. The referee counted - 1… 2… MJF kicked out! Jericho pulled MJF to his feet and went to whip MJF into the corner, but MJF reversed the Irish whip, sending Jericho into the turnbuckles. MJF hit Jericho with a series of chops in the corner, then followed up with a knee to the midsection. MJF dragged Jericho along the ropes, setting him up for the Heatseeker… but Jericho countered with a back body drop! Jericho followed MJF to the outside, but Richard Holliday got between Jericho and MJF. Holliday began taunting Jericho, and Jericho hit Holliday with a right hand, knocking him down. Jericho then went to grab MJF, but MJF was playing possum, and he poked Jericho in the eyes then threw him into the ring steps! MJF then hit Jericho with a piledriver on the outside, and rolled back into the ring, yelling at the referee to begin counting Jericho out.
Nigel McGuinness: Jericho looks like he’s out cold! MJF is ten seconds away from getting what might be his biggest career win to date!
As the referee reached the count of 8, Jericho began to stir. Jericho got to his feet at the count of 9, and rolled back into the ring just before the 10 count! Jericho and MJF exchanged right hands back and forth, and after gaining the upper hand, Jericho whipped MJF into the corner. Jericho hit MJF with ten mounted punches, then sat MJF on the top rope and went for a hurricanrana… but MJF countered with a powerbomb! He hooked both legs and the referee counted - 1… 2… Jericho kicked out! MJF got to his feet and stomped on Jericho’s arm several times, then turned him over and applied the Salt of the Earth… but Jericho was able to get his foot on the ropes! The referee ordered MJF to break the hold, but MJF kept it locked in. The referee threatened to disqualify MJF and began counting - 1… 2… 3… 4… MJF broke the hold just before the count of 5, then dragged Jericho to the center of the ring then reapplied the hold! Jericho couldn’t reach the ropes this time, but he was able to roll MJF up and pin his shoulders to the mat! The referee counted - 1… 2… MJF kicked out!
Mauro Ranallo: Jericho almost had MJF there!
As both men got to their feet, MJF tried to hit Jericho with a Codebreaker… but Jericho blocked it, then grabbed MJF by the legs and put him in the Walls of Jericho! MJF was struggling to get to the ropes, but as he reached out his arm, Richard Holliday grabbed it, pulling MJF towards the ropes! As MJF grabbed the ropes, the referee noticed Holliday standing nearby, but Holliday held up his hands, protesting his innocence. Jericho broke the hold, and stepped back as he waited for MJF to get to his feet… but MJF rolled out of the ring and grabbed a steel chair from ringside. MJF re-entered the ring with the chair and went to hit Jericho with it, but before he could, the referee stopped him! The referee took the chair off MJF, and as he was taking it out of the ring, Richard Holliday entered the ring and grabbed Floyd, Jericho’s baseball bat. While the referee’s back was turned, Holliday ran at Jericho and went to hit him with Floyd… but Jericho ducked out of the way, and Holliday accidentally hit MJF instead! Jericho grabbed Holliday and threw him out of the ring, and as the referee turned around, Jericho pulled MJF to his feet and hit him with the Judas Effect! He hooked the leg and the referee counted - 1… 2… 3!
Nigel McGuinness: It’s over! Jericho wins with an unlikely assist from Richard Holliday!
Mauro Ranallo: That will teach him and MJF for trying to cheat, Nigel!
Jericho made his way to the back as a video package began to play for the next match.
Before the match we saw a video package set to 'Rising' by Lovebites. First there were still images and short clips of Tam and Arisa in Japan, the words 'courtesy of World Wonder Ring STARDOM' at the bottom. At first Tam was off put and upset at the smiling Arisa, then eventually the pair hit double team moves. Then the footage shifted to EBWF, showing the past year's events in rapid succession: Arisa's return to the ring in Queen's Court, Tam winning the championship at Fanniversary, their first match, Arisa and Tam winning at Last Survivor, the pair eliminating Utami at Fallout, Tam standing tall with her belt again, Arisa running the gauntlet to become Queen of the Ring, and finally Tam stepping out of her boiler suit to reveal her Oedo Tai allegiance.
Mauro Ranallo: Don't tell me Tam Nakano is the third woman!
Next the package shifted to Gateway to Glory and Tam hitting the Violet Screwdriver onto the Oedo Tai sign to steal victory away from Trish Stratus. We then saw Tam standing in the Fanniversary ring, the arena empty. She held the title up high as she spoke.
Tam Nakano: I am the most dominant champion in EBWF history! No one is good enough to take this beautiful championship from me. No one.
It shifted to Arisa standing in that same ring, staring up at the rafters.
Arisa Hoshiki: Each time I fell short against Tam, I got a little closer to ending her reign. Now it's time to finish the job.
Back to Tam with the belt around her chest. Her typically cute smile turned into a cold grin.
Tam Nakano: Hoshiki's flown too close to the sun. I'm going to send her crashing to earth for good.
Back to Arisa, working through a series of kicks.
Arisa Hoshiki: Three years of suffering, setbacks and work all come down to this. I will prove I'm a world championship level fighter!
We then saw Tam drop Arisa onto the belt with a Violet Screwdriver. The video paused on Tam laughing at her actions.
Tam Nakano: Your fairy tale ends here, Hoshiki. You might hate me, but you will never be better than me.
Next we saw the bloodied Arisa looking up into the camera.
Arisa Hoshiki: One kick is all it takes to make history. I can't forgive what you've done and become. At Fanniversary, the Final Boss gets eclipsed by the Shining Star.
It ended with a graphic for the title match. The fans cheered loudly, hotly anticipating the final showdown between the former Dream Shine teammates. For a moment the camera panned out over the crowd before settling on Christy Hemme, standing in the center of the ring.
Christy Hemme: The following contest is scheduled for one fall-
The crowd roared out 'ONE FALL!'
Christy Hemme: And it is for the EBWF Women's Championship!!
The announcement drew loud cheers that grew ever louder when 'Shining Star' by Unlimited Dream Navigator hit. The stage lit up with gold and white lights and out through the curtain stepped Arisa Hoshiki, resplendent in a brand new white and gold entrance robe. Arisa threw a roundhouse kick, then posed with her right arm pointing to the fans. She smiled for the camera, then made her way down to the ring as cheers of 'A-RI-SA!' rang out.
Christy Hemme: Introducing first, the challenger. From Chiba, Japan, she is the 2023 Last Survivor and Queen of the Ring, "Shining Star" Ariiiisaaaa Hookshikiii!"
Mauro Ranallo: What a journey it's been for this competitor. In 2020 she retired due to illness and neck injuries. Last fall she shocked the world by returning to action and narrowly lost a match for this title. Tonight she's looking to redeem herself and get revenge on her former best friend.
Nigel McGuiness: Arisa Hoshiki has indeed made 2023 her year. It's a huge accomplishment to become Last Survivor or Queen of the Ring, let alone doing it in the same year. The question is if she can finally find a way to take down Tam Nakano, and if she's in any condition to even try after the events of two weeks ago.
Arisa climbed the turnbuckle and posed for the fans who continued chanting her name. After she hopped down into the ring, her music faded out and the camera centered on Christy Hemme.
Christy Hemme: At this time, please welcome the Wagakki Band.
The shot shifted to the stage where the band had set up shop. Its lead singer smiled for the crowd and then they began to play 'Senbonzakura'. Behind them the entrance tron featured the words 'FINAL BOSS' and 'Tam Nakano' interspersed with clips of Tam hitting big moves and posing in her Oedo Tai gear. After several moments the stage filled with smoke and Tam stepped out. She wore a black kimono with devil wings attached to the back, the EBWF Women's Championship around her waist. Her eyes glared out over a black face mask with a gleaming purple demon's maw on it.
After breathing heavily, she marched down to the ring alone to the chorus of her entrance music.
Christy Hemme: And introducing the champion, from Aichi, Japan. She is the leader of Oedo Tai and longest reigning EBWF Women's Champion in history, "Darkest in the Cosmos" Taaaaaam Nakanooo!
The fans' boos were deafening as Tam took her time making her way to the ring.
Mauro Ranallo: An entirely different Fanniversary welcome for Tam Nakano one year after her dramatic win over Dr. Britt Baker, DMD. She's made history since then, surpassing Trish Stratus' record reign. And she's done it by becoming more ruthless than anyone thought possible.
Nigel McGuinness: For 365 days, this woman has been at the top of the wrestling world. Now she's facing the one woman in EBWF who knows her better than anyone. She's beaten the Dark Star and the newly free Arisa Hoshiki, but can her historic reign continue against a Shining Star at the height of her powers?
Tam stopped at the bottom of the stairs, eyes coldly locked on the ring. More boos rang out as she ascended the steps, then gingerly climbed through the ropes. Once she was in the ring she threw her arms out dramatically, then tugged her mask down to reveal a coy smile. Her music ended and she made a show of removing her kimono. Once her entrance gear was off she held the EBWF Women's Championship up high and drew more boos. With a dismissive laugh she lowered the belt, kissed it's center plate and then handed it to the referee. The ref took it over to Arisa, who looked longingly at it before nodding to the ref. Finally the ref held the belt up in the center of the ring to a mix of cheers and "A-RI-SA!" chants. Once the belt was handed off to ringside, the bell rang and the match was on!
For a long few moments the two women just stared at each other across the ring. Arisa tensed her muscles while wearing an expression cold as ice. Tam meanwhile glared holes right into Arisa, looking loose and ready to throw down. Then when Tam started to step out of her corner, there was a blur of white and gold as Arisa stormed across the ring at the champion. She hit a shotgun dropkick that sent Tam flying into the corner, the impact with the turnbuckles so loud you could hear it in the cheap seats. Arisa kept up the attack, laying into Tam with forearm shot after forearm shot. She then backed up and unleashed a spinning heel kick - no one was home! Tam ducked the move, ending up behind Arisa. When the Shining Star turned around, Tam slapped the taste out of her mouth. She then threw her arms out to the side, asking if that’s all Arisa had. Arisa responded by slamming her fist right into Tam’s face, sending her to the mat!
Tam lay on the ground for a moment, laughing at the action of her former friend and holding her cheek. She nodded and climbed back up to one knee before Arisa unleashed a torrent of stiff kicks to the chest. Tam looked dazed as Arisa went for a buzzsaw kick - no, Tam ducked and rolled Arisa up with a schoolgirl pin!
One! Two!! Arisa kicked out!
Nigel McGuinness: That was almost it!
Mauro Ranallo: Arisa came into this match full of passion, but she’s got to be careful not to let them get the better of her.
Arisa got back to her feet and closed in on Tam, nailing a few kicks in a nasty combo. The champion staggered back and Arisa took her down with a swinging neckbreaker. With Tam down and favoring her neck, Arisa ran the ropes and dropped a knee across Tam’s neck. She covered Tam for a pin.
One! Two!! Tam kicked out!
Undeterred, Arisa scooped Tam up off the mat and kneed her in the midsection twice before landing one to the face that staggered Tam back to the ropes. With the champion leaning on the top rope, Arisa ran the ropes to build momentum and looked for a leaping knee strike! No! Tam nailed her with a boot to the face! Arisa stumbled back and Tam slipped through the ropes out onto the apron. She taunted Arisa, who charged in only to have her neck snapped down onto the top rope. The challenger crumpled to the mat, clutching her throat as Tam stood on the outside and laughed. Tam then rolled back in under the bottom rope to continue the counter attack. She lifted her leg up high - axe kick to the back of Arisa’s neck!
Boos rang out as Tam knelt down and rained punches down on her head. Arisa held her arms up to try and defend herself, and eventually she reversed and started unleashing punches of her own. Tam managed to reach up and gouge the challenger in the eye, forcing her to back off. As Arisa desperately tried to recover her vision, Tam kipped up and started laying into her with a combo of devastating kicks. The challenger wobbly on her legs, Tam whipped her into the corner hard. She followed up with a handspring elbow - then chained it into a stunner! She went for the cover.
One! Two!! T- Arisa got her shoulder up!
Tam wasted no time in continuing the assault, pulling Arisa off the mat and hitting her with an uppercut. Arisa spun around and Tam cinched in a waistlock - Tenku Otoshi! She maintained her grip on the challenger, rolling through to hit a second Tenku Otoshi. Not done, she rolled through yet again and hit a third, right onto Arisa’s head and neck. The fans booed loudly as Tam grinned evilly into the camera. Rather than go for the pin she seized two clumps of Arisa’s head and smashed it into the mat repeatedly.
Mauro Ranallo: The champion is ruthlessly targeting the challenger’s head and neck! This is sickening!
Nigel McGuinness: Arisa had to retire in 2020 due to head and neck injuries, and clearly the champion’s got no qualms about trying to re-injure them!
Tam followed up by standing and planting a foot right on Arisa’s throat. The ref admonished her and counted all the way to four before Tam released the choke. The challenger desperately rolled away from her opponent, finding her way to the ropes. She pulled herself up on them just in time for Tam to charge in and hit a running knee right to the face! Arisa went limp and Tam took advantage by lifting her up and hitting a brainbuster! Arisa managed to get back to her knees, only to take a reverse roundhouse kick that sent her back down to the mat. Tam hooked the leg.
One! Two!! Th- Arisa got her shoulder up!
Tam growled a little at her opponent’s tenacity, then pulled Arisa up by her hair and hit another Tenku Otoshi. Arisa accordioned, rolled over and ended up face down on the mat. Chants of “A-RI-SA!” rose again as Tam stalked the downed challenger. She playfully kicked at Arisa, who barely moved. That wicked grin returned as Tam began to deadlift Arisa off the mat - Arisa rolled her up into a small package!
One! Two!! Tam reversed it!
One! Two!! Arisa reversed it back!
One! Two!! Tam kicked out!
Both women got to their feet and Tam unleashed a kick to Arisa’s leg. Arisa responded with one to Tam’s chest. In moments they were exchanging kick after kick, neither woman getting a clear advantage. Tam tried for another reverse roundhouse, only for Arisa to kick her leg out of the air and hit a step up knee to the face! Tam was staggered, the fans cheering as Arisa moved in and hit a vertical suplex! Tam hit the mat hard, then sat up in time for Arisa to smack her with a penalty kick to the back! She then fell to the mat and locked in the Anaconda Vice!
Tam screamed in pain as Arisa wrenched in the hold, but she kept shaking her head no when the ref went to check on her. Tam started to bridge up but Arisa shifted her weight and forced the champ back down to the mat. As the champ’s feet kicked with all their might to gain purchase, Arisa’s face contorted into the cold viciousness she’d once worn as the Dark Star. The fans began shouting for Tam to “TAP! TAP! TAP!”, but the Darkest in the Cosmos finally managed to get a bridge up - she rolled Arisa into a pin.
One! Two!! Arisa kicked out and released the hold. She was back to her feet quickly, and once Tam got to her feet Arisa hit a Brazilian kick right to the face. She followed up by scooping Tam up and tried for the Diamond Buster - no! Tam slipped out the back and shoved Arisa face first into the nearby turnbuckle. Arisa suddenly had all her momentum gone as she stumbled backwards into the waiting arms of Tam. Tam got the hammerlock cinched in - TWILIGHT DREAM! NO! Arisa planted her feet and elbowed out of it! She spun around for the PULSAR KICK - no! Tam matrix evaded it and hit Arisa with a Tiger Suplex.
Mauro Ranallo: That was almost it!
Nigel McGuinness: Both women are pulling out the big guns here, and the biggest of all is that Twilight Dram of Tam’s. It’s the move that finished off Arisa Hoshiki in both of their EBWF encounters. No one’s kicked out of it, and if she hits it this match is over.
As Arisa recovered, Tam stormed over and whipped her to the opposite ropes. Tam ran after her, but whatever she’d had in mind ended when Arisa hit a springboard Star Cutter OUT OF NOWHERE! Tam was down, but managed to roll out of the ring before Arisa could make the pin. The shot changed to show Tam leaned up against the ringside barrier, trying to recover from the sudden offense. She shook her head to clear the cobwebs just as the fans popped massively - Arisa flew from the top rope to hit a missile dropkick! Tam was flat on her back, stunned by the shock move. It’d also taken a ton out of Arisa, who clutched her neck as she attempted to recover her senses. All the while the fans chanted “HOLY SH**!” at the audacity of Arisa’s move.
Both women began to stir by the time the ref’s count hit 4. Tam gripped the ringside barrier with both hands and pulled herself up groggily, while Arisa suddenly awoke with a roar of passion. She stormed over to Tam and landed a superkick. Tam just barely managed to stay on her feet and responded with a toe kick right to Arisa’s chin. Arisa answered back with a spinning kick to the ribs that sent Tam to her back; the champ rolled through it and ended up on the other side of the ring steps. Arisa took a moment to get the crowd fired up, then pointed an accusing finger at Tam. She stalked the champion, just then rising from her knees, and went for the Pulsar Kick again! NO! Tam hit Arisa square in the face with clear mist and the ref didn’t see it! Arisa stumbled back and Tam rushed up to her, slamming her face right into the ring steps. She then hit a Tenku Otoshi onto the arena floor. With boos raining down on her, Tam picked Arisa up by her gear and rolled her into the ring. Tam smirked to the camera and took her time rolling back into the ring, clearly knowing the match had to be over. She crawled over to the motionless Arisa and counted with her fingers as she made the pin.
One! Two!! Th- Arisa got her shoulder up to a big pop!
Mauro Ranallo: What will it take to win this match? Tam’s unleashed so much vicious offense and Arisa still won’t quit!
Nigel McGuinness: Her heart’s big, but continuing to fight like this might shorten her career considerably. She might want to consider staying down after how her career nearly ended for good three years ago.
Starting to show frustration, Tam went to the corner and climbed to the top rope. She flew off of it, elegantly executing the moonsault - but no one was home! Tam crashed to the mat as Arisa struggled to her feet, the cobwebs in her mind starting to clear. With Tam favoring her chest and ribs, Arisa rushed in and punted her hard in the side. She then stalked the champion as Tam slowly found her way to her feet. Not giving the champ an inch, she stormed in to hit a running high knee! Tam’s legs were wobbly as Arisa scooped her up - DIAMOND BUSTER! Arisa hooked the leg, looking for the pin.
One! Two!! Th- Tam kicked out!
Undeterred, Arisa kept her momentum going and got to her feet, sizing the champion up as Tam struggled to get up. Tam just got to her feet when Arisa went for the Pulsar Kick, but Tam fell to one knee and evaded. Tam then grabbed Arisa and hit a Fisherman’s Suplex, cinching the grip for a pin attempt!
One! Two!! Arisa kicked out!
Both women got back up and Tam attempted to get a grip on her opponent. Arisa swatted her hands down though and hit a Brazilian Kick that staggered the champion. Tam suddenly found some energy and rushed forward, hitting Arisa with a superkick! Arisa fell back to the ropes, then rebounded with a dropkick. Tam fell back, rolled over to her feet and immediately ate a VIOLET SHOOT FROM ARISA! Arisa hooked both legs for the pin.
One! Two!! Th- Tam reversed the pin!
One Two!! Th- Arisa kicked out!
They both recovered at the same time and Arisa threw a punch that Tam dodged and countered with a knee to the face. As Arisa fell back, Tam moved up behind her and went for the Twilight Dream again. Arisa hammered at her with elbows, breaking the hold in desperation. She whipped Tam into the corner, where Tam used her momentum to hop up the ropes. Tam then flew off the rope and hit a diving DDT on Arisa! She rolled Arisa over for the pin.
One! Two!! Th- Aris just got her shoulder up!
In frustration, Tam ripped Arisa up off the mat and pulled her into position for another Twilight Dream. Before going for the move, the camera picked up Tam screaming “IT’S OVER, HOSHIKI!”. Tam then lifted her up - Arisa flipped over and landed behind Tam. She hit a vicious German Suplex to create some space as the fans cheered and chanted her name.
Mauro Ranallo: Brilliant ring awareness by the challenger!
Nigel McGuinness: This might be her last best chance to put away the champion.
Tam got to her feet slowly and Arisa ran for the nearby corner. Arisa leapt to the top rope and springboarded towards Tam - 1339! No! Tam matrix evaded the move, coming up behind the challenger. She wasted no time nailing a vicious roundhouse kick to the back of Arisa's neck, eliciting a groan of sympathy from the crowd. Arisa fell to her knees and Tam ran the ropes, VIOLET SHOOT! She put a knee on Arisa's neck for a pin.
One! Two!! Th- Arisa got her shoulder up!
Tam slapped the mat in frustration, then screamed 'FINISH!'. She buried her hands in Arisa's hair and roughly pulled the challenger up on rubbery legs. Arisa hit a weak forearm strike to the chest, but Tam laughed it off and slapped her hard across the face. Arisa spun around from the impact, and Tam cinched in her grip. TWILIGHT DREAM! She got all of it and bridged for the pin.
Mauro Ranallo: Twilight Dream! It's over!
One! Two!! THREE - NO!!! - Arisa kicked out at 2.99 to a massive pop!
Mauro Ranallo: Mamma Mia! How in the hell did she kick out?!
Nigel McGuinness: No one's ever kicked out of that move! Arisa Hoshiki refuses to die!
Suddenly there were massive boos, and the camera suddenly shifted to the stage. AZM and a battered looking Jamie Hayter emerged, attention fully focused on the action on the ring. AZM tapped the Oedo Tai sign playfully and the two members of Oedo Tai began to head for ringside.
Mauro Ranallo: Oh come on! There's no call for Oedo Tai to get involved in this matchup!
Before they made it too far, the pair were suddenly jumped by a pair of women charging out from the back. The first was Utami, who clobbered AZM from behind with a lariat! AZM crumpled to the ground, and Utami lifted her up to hit a BT Bomb onto the stage! Sakisama meanwhile ducked a lariat from Jamie, then took her out with an Academy Award Kick! The reaction from the crowd was mixed as Neo Biishiki-Gun stood tall. Sakisama bowed to the ring, making brief eye contact with Arisa as she slowly pulled herself up on the ropes.
Nigel McGuinness: The tension between Oedo Tai and Neo Biishiki-Gun just exploded onto the stage! Sakisama has spoken at length about the war that's coming, and now she and Utami just cut off Tam's reinforcements!
Mauro Ranallo: Can Arisa Hoshiki take advantage of the situation? Does she have enough left in the tank for one decisive move?
Back in the ring, Arisa had gotten to her feet at the same time as Tam. The pair locked eyes and slowly closed the distance again. Tam nailed a forearm, then Arisa returned fire. Tam hit a roundhouse kick, Arisa staggered back looking like the lights were on but nobody was home. Tam grinned and moved in for the kill, landing a few more strikes. She then locked her grip for another Twilight Dream. No! Arisa slipped out of her grip and desperately tried for the Queen Killer! Tam elbowed Arisa in the face three times to break the hold, then lifted her up - VIOLET SCREWDRIVER! No! Arisa kneed Tam on the head and landed on her feet behind the champion. Tam spun around right into the PULSAR KICK! Arisa got all of it! Tam's head snapped back and she collapsed to the mat. The exhausted Arisa fell on top of her for the pin.
One! Two! THREE!!!
A monstrous pop erupted as the bell rang and 'Shining Star' hit.
Christy Hemme: Here is your winner AND NEEEEEWWW EBWF Women’s Champion! Ariiiisaaaa Hooshikiii!
Arisa rolled off of Tam, breathing heavily after the war she’d just fought. Tam meanwhile lay there staring up at the ceiling in disbelief at what had just gone down. Meanwhile the ref fetched the championship belt from the timekeeper and waited for its new owner to recover. Slowly, Arisa sat up, hand clutching the back of her neck and looking bewildered. Once she caught sight of the ref and the belt, tears of joy could be seen rolling down her cheeks. With an arm around the referee’s shoulder, she managed to get back to her feet at last. He handed her the belt, which she hugged close to her chest as if it might fly away at any moment. When the ref raised her hand, the crowd popped again.
Mauro Ranallo: The three year exodus has ended for the Shining Star! For the first time in 1,257 days, Arisa Hoshiki is a champion!
Nigel McGuinness: She took everything the champion could dish out and kept fighting through it. Not only is she the new EWBF Women’s Champion, but she’s just ended the longest women’s championship reign in EBWF history. A tremendous night for this young woman who had to fight for two years just to be cleared to wrestle again.
Mauro Ranallo: Tam Nakano’s reign will go down as one of the best of all time, but her dirty tricks and luck both ran out tonight.
As Arisa raised the belt overhead, we saw Tam rolling out of the ring behind her. She took one last look up at the beautiful championship she’d held for a year and the woman who’d taken it from her, then shouted in frustration as she made her way to the back. Meanwhile Arisa smiled to the ref and motioned to her waist, asking for assistance with the belt. He obliged, strapping it around her waist as cheers of “A-RI-SA!” rang out louder than ever. Our last image of the new champion was of her posing on the corner turnbuckle, a big toothy smile lighting up the whole arena floor on its own.
It then faded into a video package for the World Championship match between The Miz and Damian Priest.
The camera focused on Christy Hemme in the center of the ring.
Christy Hemme: Fanniversary…
The crowd cheered.
Christy Hemme: St. Louis!
They got louder.
Christy Hemme: This is your main event of the evening and it is for the EBWF World Championship. Introducing first…
AWESOMMMMMEEEEE
I Came to Play hit and the crowd cheered as The Miz stepped out onto the stage with Riddle on one side and Michael Cole on the other. He did his signature entrance before confidently striding down to the ring with Bro Awesome moving down the ramp behind him. Moment later, Damian Priest’s music hit and he came to the stage.
Mauro Ranallo: I have to admit, I’m kind of surprised to see Paul Heyman here with Damian Priest tonight.
Nigel McGuinness: Paul Heyman is insurance against those morons in Bro Awesome, Mauro!
Indeed, Heyman had a swagger about him as they moved down the ramp and to the ring. Priest held up the championship once he got into the ring, and Miz nodded at him while he was introduced.
Mauro Ranallo: The anticipation is palpable! The air is electric with excitement!
Nigel McGuinness: The Miz had been a fixture in EBWF for years, while Damian Priest is a rising star looking to continue this unlikely championship reign on this grand stage.
Mauro Ranallo: The fans are ready, the wrestlers are ready, and the match of the night is about to begin.
The referee signaled for the bell, and the match was officially underway. The Miz immediately tried to get inside Damian Priest's head, trash-talking and taunting him. However, Damian Priest remained focused, keeping his emotions in check and circling his opponent cautiously. Miz threw Priest onto the ring apron. Miz went to attack Damian but he fell to the outside. Miz got back in the ring and Priest slammed him down. Miz threw Damian to the outside. It looked for a moment like Riddle might try to get a cheap shot in, but Priest was too quick on his feet and got back in. Miz hit a boot and knocked Damian down. He went for the cover.
Mauro Ranallo: Miz trying to end it early here!
1…
2…
Kickout!
Miz did not let up and went for a clothesline but fell to the outside of the ring. Miz got a pep talk from Michael Cole before rolling back inside. Priest hit a big clothesline taking Miz down. Priest landed some kicks and followed up with some right hands. Priest executed a beautiful spinning kick that caused the fans to cheer. He went for the cover.
1…
2…
Kickout!
Mauro Ranallo: The Miz not ready to call it a night just yet!
Priest climbed the top rope and landed a spinning heel kick onto the Miz.
1…
2…
Nigel McGuinness: Another kick out from Miz!
Mauro Ranallo: Miz has everything it takes to be the EBWF World Champion again, and he’s making that clear tonight.
Priest grabbed Miz but Miz slammed Priest down and he got the figure four on Priest in the middle of the ring. Priest was struggling, but made it to the bottom rope to break the hold. Once both men were on their feet, Miz went for a right hand, but Priest blocked it and hit Miz with the falcon arrow. He goes for the cover!
1…
2…
Mauro Ranallo: Miz kicks out!
Priest helped Miz to his feet, and Miz hit the running knee. He went for the cover.
1…
2…
Kickout!
Nigel McGuinness: The Miz can’t believe it!
Mauro Ranallo: Neither can Bro Awesome at ringside, but Paul Heyman is looking pretty smug!
Miz was holding his knee. Priest hit Miz with Hit the Lights. The Miz's experience showed as he was able to outmaneuver Damian Priest, dodging his strikes. The Miz began to gain the upper hand, using his veteran skills to control the match. He locked in a headlock on Damian Priest, trying to wear him down and sap his strength. The crowd rallied behind Priest, chanting his name and urging him to break free from The Miz's grip.
Nigel McGuinness: This crowd seems to be pretty split on who they’re behind here tonight!
Mauro Ranallo: Both of these men have worked hard to earn the admiration of the EBWF Audience, so that’s no wonder Nigel!
Damian Priest showed his resilience, refusing to give in to The Miz's tactics. He fought his way out of the headlock, delivering a series of sharp elbows to The Miz's midsection. The Miz stumbled back, and Damian Priest seized the opportunity, launching himself off the ropes and delivering a devastating running knee to The Miz's face. The Miz crashed to the mat, and Bro Awesome looked stunned at ringside. With The Miz down, Priest capitalized on the momentum. He lifted The Miz to his feet and unleashed a barrage of powerful strikes and kicks. The Miz struggled to defend himself as Priest's onslaught continued. Damian Priest executed a jaw-dropping spin kick that sent The Miz sprawling to the outside of the ring.
Mauro Ranallo: Damian Priest has to keep the pressure on if he wants to secure the victory.
Priest rolled out of the ring, grabbing The Miz and sending him crashing into the barricade. The impact was brutal, and The Miz writhed in pain on the floor. Michael Cole stood over The Miz as the referee stood inside the ring and began his count.
Nigel McGuinness: I’m not sure if that’s the brightest move! Priest seems to be giving Miz some space to recover.
Mauro Ranallo: That’s a noble way for Priest to treat his opponent. No one can say Miz didn’t have a fair shot.
With the referee’s attention turned to Miz and Cole, Priest continued to keep his distance when suddenly Matt Riddle began to stalk up behind Priest, only to be interrupted by Paul Heyman was was emoting like a mating bullfrog only able to produce guttural noises of surprise. The ref whipped around to see Riddle crouched, and Riddle immediately put his hands up in surrender. Miz looked surprised that Riddle seemed to be about to intervene on his behalf as the referee pointed at both Riddle and Cole and threw them out of the ringside area as the fans cheered.
Mauro Ranallo: Bro Awesome is being sent to the back!
Nigel McGuinness: Matt Riddle was going to run his own play! Miz looks shocked.
As Bro Awesome left ringside, Priest saw no reason to continue being courteous and rolled The Miz back into the ring. The Miz was clearly hurting, but he was not one to give up easily. He managed to catch Damian Priest off guard with a kick to the shin. The Miz saw his opening and pounced on Damian Priest, targeting his midsection. The Miz was relentless in his attack, focusing on Damian Priest's ribs and back.
Mauro Ranallo: Miz knows that if he can weaken Priest's core, he will have a better chance of securing the win.
Damian Priest's fighting spirit could not be extinguished. He dug deep, summoning the strength to counter The Miz's offense. With a sudden burst of energy, Priest fought back, landing a fierce punch that sent The Miz reeling. The crowd erupted as Priest mounted a comeback, showcasing his incredible athleticism and agility. Damian Priest climbed to the top rope and leaped off with a spectacular spinning heel kick that connected perfectly with The Miz's jaw. The Miz crashed to the mat, dazed and disoriented.
Mauro Ranallo: I think Priest sees his opportunity!
Priest hoisted The Miz onto his shoulders, preparing to deliver The Reckoning. He executed the move flawlessly, driving The Miz face-first into the canvas. Priest hooked the leg!
1…
2…
Nigel McGuinness: That should do it!
3!
Mauro Ranallo: Priest looks absolutely exhausted. What a well earned victory!
Priest stumbled to his feet as the referee raised his arms in victory.
Damian Priest celebrated his victory in the ring, raising his arms in triumph as the crowd cheered him on.
Mauro Ranallo: And on the 22nd Birthday of EBWF - this is a defining moment in Damian Priest’s career. An indelible memory in the history of EBWF.
Priest held up the EBWF World Championship as fireworks shot off all over the staging area. A drone shot of the outside of the arena was shown and fireworks shot off outside as EBWF Fanniversary went off the air.
