ICW: A Horse, A Spoon, And a Bucket

ICW's run at the Edinburgh Fringe festival concluded this past weekend with three title matches, a special benefit concert for the 55, the continuation of the tournament to crown the first ever ICW Women's Champion and the return of Kris Travis to an ICW ring. Whilst perhaps lacking the intensity of  The Ministry of Silly Headlocks, A Horse, A Spoon, And a Bucket concluded with a huge announcement that pits arguably the two biggest names in ICW against each other in a tantalising main event for Fear and Loathing VIII.

Only two shows in Glasgow remain before ICW embark on their biggest UK tour to date. With the main event booked for Fear and Loathing VIII, all roads lead to the SECC on November 15th as ICW continues to gather momentum towards one of the biggest nights in British wrestling history.

A Horse, A Spoon, And a Bucket began with two of ICW's most exciting young wrestlers.

Lewis Girvan vs Lou King Sharpe

The best young wrestler in the world, Lewis Girvan, is the first to make his way to the ring. As ever, Lewis Girvan asks Champagne Simon Cassidy to remind the audience he is the best young wrestler in the world to which the fans respond with "who are ya?". After being rehired by Toal last week, weighing in at a rip, cut and jacked 8 and a half stone, standing at a colossal 5ft 4', Lou King Sharp makes his way to the ring making his debut as part of the Toal family.

Lewis Girvan emerges on top of the initial exchange as he works the fingers of Lou King Sharpe. Chants of "Lou King Sharpe" echo around the arena as Lewis Girvan takes the opportunity to chat with the announcer Simon Cassidy- Cassidy reminds everyone it is pronounced "best young wrester". As Girvan returns to the ring, Lou King Sharp lands a thesz press to ground Girvan before the best young wrestler rolls to the outside for a chance to rework his game plan. Girvan is interrupted as Lou King Sharp connects with a tope con hilo- Sharp looks for a second but is halted by Girvan who this time wisely spikes the ropes before Sharp has the chance to fly. Girvan, now in control, delivers a delayed vertical suplex followed by two back breakers before applying a rear chin lock.

A sunset flip allows Lou King Sharp to gain some momentum in the match- a spinning clothesline positions Girvan in between the middle and top rope as Lou King Sharp hits the 0141. Sharp connects with a diving cross body before heading up to the top rope- Girvan, this time, catches his opponent before driving him into the mat with a devastating powerbomb. Girvan, after kicking out of a surprise small package, lands a half and half suplex before missing a double foot stomp. A single leg drop kick is dodged by Lewis Girvan before Girvan delivers a dragon suplex- again, Lou King Sharp demonstrates his resilience by kicking out at 2. Girvan, showing signs of frustration, delivers a ddt into a neckbreaker to pick up the victory.

Winner: Lewis Girvan

Girvan, not content with the victory, begins the post match beat down before the Tim Wyllie and Kid Fite arrive as Girvan flees- Kid Fite hits the D.O.A. brainbuster as ICW General Manager, Red Lightning, makes his way to the ring.

Red Lightning Arrives

Red Lightning, mic in hand, trash talks the man he fired a few months ago. After calling for a referee, Red Lightning covers Lou King Sharpe for the three count thanks in no small part to the 55. Red Lightning reminds all the fans of his unbeaten record over the past two weeks. Thanks to the 55, Red Lightning is now 3-0 after pinning Joe Coffey, Noam Dar and now Lou King Sharpe.

Red Lightning informed fans in attendance that he has cancelled the flights of the Sumerian Death Squad members, Tommy End and Michael Dante, before stating that there is a working relationship between the Black Label, comprised of Red Lightning, Jack Jester and the ICW World Heavyweight Champion Drew Galloway, and the 55.

Damo vs Kid Fite

To the delight of the crowd, Damo puts an end to Red Lightning's filibustering as he attacks the 55's enforcer, Tim Wyllie. Damo and Kid Fite brawl around ringside. Unsurprisingly, it is the bigger man, Damo, who gains control of the match after driving Kid Fite into the ring post then barricade.

The bell rings as the match is now officially under way- Damo offers Kid Fite a free pass to attempt to knock him over. Fite accedes but barely makes an impression on a man well over double his size as chants of "you can stick your 55 up your arse" ring around the arena. A shoulder block sends Kid Fite reeling to the outside but as Damo heads outside he is ambushed by Tim Wyllie and Kid Fite in a two on one assault tantamount to a mugging before being rolled back in the ring. A ferocious Misawa elbow sends Damo crumbling to the mat for the first time but isn't enough to secure the pinfall.  A drop kick followed by a senton by the 330+ pound Irishman brings a close fall- after dispatching Tim Wyllie to the outside, Damo connects with an impressive superkick before delivering the O Connor roll to pick up the victory.

Winner: Damo

Damo, distracted by the 55, doesn't have much time to celebrate as Jack Jester blind sides the Beast of Belfast with a chair shot. Jester, aided by the 55, work over Damo's left knee with several brutal chair shots to send a potent message to anyone interfering with the business of the 55. Miraculously, Damo manages to leave the ring on his own volition.

Joe Hendry Benefit Concert

Accompanied to the ring with a guitarist and Stone Cold Bobby Roberts, ICW's resident musician, wearing a delightful Christmas jumper embroidered with the words 'Local Hero', made his way to the ring to perform a benefit concert for the 55.

To begin, Joe Hendry delivers a delicate acoustic version of Calvin Harris and Rhianna's We Found Love before seamlessly transitioning into a new song. Replacing the TNT lyric from ACDC's TNT with Joe Hendry, the local hero proves once again why he has one of the most unique gimmicks in the world of professional wrestling that would shame any X Factor-y pretender. Joe Hendry slows things down with a touching rendition of What if Joe was one of us? as the crowd show their appreciation with a roar of approval. After a series of vocal exercises, the local hero returns to where it all began with the song that reached number one in Estonia, I C Double Me and You.

Much to the disappointment of the fans, Joe Hendry stops midway through the song to state his dismay at the lack of opportunities he receives in ICW. Hendry reminds the audience there are two things he has never done in ICW: the first is swear, the second is use a weapon- two of the things responsible for ICW's popularity. Hendry, the antithesis of ICW, continues on to state that James R Kennedy, leader of the 55, has driven the local hero to consider using a weapon on him. Hendry proceeds to a PG Pulp Fiction weapon selection between a mic stand, a samurai sword or a guitar. Before a decision can be arrived at, the 55's enforcer, Tim Wyllie. emerges from behind the curtain to put an end to all "this musical bullshit". Wyllie, after delivering a ferocious spear to Stone Cold Bobby Roberts, is smashed over the head with a guitar as the local hero does something he has never done in ICW.

Polo Promotions vs IRN JEW

For the ICW Tag Team Championships

After successfully earning the number one contendership for the ICW Tag Team Championship after defeating The Rodgers Brothers. After successfully defending their number one contendership against against The GZRS, the fan-favourite team of Grado and Colt Cabana, IRN JEW, are finally granted their shot at Polo Promotions' ICW Tag Team Championship. Polo Promotions, the longest reigning tag team champions in ICW history, head into the match after an impressive victory over the Sumerian Death Squad albeit with an assist to the N.A.K.

Mark Coffey and Grado get things under way but before any exchange occurs, Grado tags in Colt Cabana. Cabana and Coffey exchange a series of wrist locks before Coffey applies a side headlock- Cabana reverses with an arm drag take down as we see a more subdued, serious IRN JEW tonight. Cabana, demonstrating his technical proficiency, escapes a head scissors with a head stand before a sunset flip brings a near fall. Cabana makes the tag to Grado before a series of double team manoeuvres on Coffey's left arm- after Coffey escapes the hold, Grado offers Coffey a chance to german suplex him. Coffey declines and, instead, tags in his partner, Jackie Polo, for the first time in the match. Jackie Polo immediately lands his patented scoop slam before slapping on a side headlock. Grado, with considerable history between himself and Jackie Polo, escapes the hold with an arm drag take down. Grado successfully makes the tag to Cabana- a drop kick by Jackie Polo disorientates Cabana to present an opportunity for Polo Promotions to send Cabana on a visit to scoop slam city before asking "who bad?".

After several scoop slams, Polo Promotions cut off Colt Cabana in the corner before the Grado comes to the aid of his tag team partner. Grado, though, is sent to the outside after a brief flurry of offence- Cabana temporarily breaks the flow of scoop slams with a roll up but Jackie Polo continues with the scoop slam before heading to the top rope- Polo meets a face full of Cabana's boot. Cabana makes the tag to Grado as the Ayrshire Dream enters the ring with several elbows. Grado lifts Jackie Polo for the Get Tae Bed but Polo escapes only to walk into an R-Gra-Do as Edinburgh comes unglued!- Polo kicks out at 2. Grado calls for the F5 but Jackie Polo pushes Grado into a headbutt by Mark Coffey. Jackie Polo tags in his partner after a shoulder breaker- Mark Coffey connects with a bridging back suplex- Grado kicks out at 2. Temporarily distracted by Colt Cabana, Mark Coffey walks straight into an F5 by Grado- Grado connects with the assisted roll n slice...1...2.... Coffey extends his arm to the ropes to break the count. Cabana, after being tagged in by Grado, looks for the GTS but Coffey reverses before connecting with a lariat followed by a diving elbow. Jackie Polo sends Grado to the outside before Polo Promotions connect with the assisted bridging german suplex to pick up the win and make it 294 days as ICW Tag Team Champions.

Winner: Polo Promotions

Although not nearly as hilarious as IRN JEW's match with The GZRS last week, this match here showcased a different side to Grado and Cabana. Anyone familiar with indie wrestling can testify to Cabana's technical acumen but it was Grado who will have surprised many with his technical ability.

Stevie Boy vs Wolfgang

After a heated discussion with his former ally the Wee Man, Stevie Boy offers an open challenge for his ICW Zero G Championship with the caveat that said challenger must have previously won the Zero G Championship.

Wolfgang, fellow member of the N.A.K. and pioneer of Scottish wrestling, emerges to challenge for a title he defeated Andrew Wilde for over three years ago. Clearly, Stevie Boy doesn't want to be part of this match as he pleads with Wolfgang to lay down for him. After a handshake, Wolfgang hesitantly lays down....1....2... Wolfgang's pride doesn't allow him to have a match end like this.

Wolfgang and Stevie Boy lock up as Wolfgang uses his strength advantage to ground Stevie Boy with a side headlock. After a series of reversals, both men begin dancing before Stevie Boy connects with the hadouken of doom as Wolfgang crashes to the mat in slow motion before the ref counts to three.

Winner: Stevie Boy

As Wolfgang and Stevie Boy celebrate in the ring, Mikey Whiplash's music begins to play. Without fellow Legion members Tommy End and Michael Dante, ICW's necromancer emerges at the top of the ramp alone before calling the 'match' an abomination. Whiplash reminds fans that he, too, is a former Zero G Champion as he makes his way to the ring to challenge Stevie Boy.

Stevie Boy vs Mikey Whiplash

As soon as Whiplash enters the ring, Stevie Boy begins the beat down before a lariat almost takes Stevie Boy's head off. A vertical suplex by Whiplash is reversed by Stevie Boy into a brainbuster- Whiplash kicks out at 2. A superkick by Stevie Boy is dodged by Whiplash- who unloads with several uppercuts in the corner before connecting with one from the top rope. Stevie Boy lands an elbow to end Whiplash's momentum- Stevie Boy, heading up top, looks for a leg drop but is caught on the shoulders of Whiplash who proceeds to deliver three consecutive power bombs.

An enziguri by Stevie Boy temporarily prevents the Zombie Maker before Whiplash connects with a series of ferocious uppercuts. Whiplash, this time, connects with the Zombie Maker but before he has a chance to make the cover Wolfgang and BT Gunn come to the aid of their N.A.K brethren. Wolfgang connects with a shot with the brass knuckles as BT Gunn and Stevie Boy hold Whipash up- the sultan of silent hill, Chris Renfrew emerges from the curtain, plaster cast on his injured left hand. Whilst Stevie Boy and BT Gunn deliver a series of brutal stomps, Renfrew dares anyone to challenge the N.A.K.. Renfrew informs the crowd Whiplash's punishment is ten whips with the cane. After ten devastating whips of the cane, the N.A.K. tie Whiplash up with a metal chain before dragging him out of the ring as the N.A.K. make a powerful statement of intent heading into their steel cage match vs Legion at the SECC.

Winner: no contest

Kasey Owens vs Viper

ICW's tournament to crown the first ever ICW Women's Champion continued this past week as Viper made her return to ICW after being piledriven through her wedding cake by Bram on her and D.C.T.'s wedding day. At A Horse, A Spoon, And a Bucket, Viper faced a woman synonymous with tag team wrestling. As part of The Owens Twins, Kasey has made quite an impression on the ICW faithful but faces her toughest task yet in a singles competition against Viper.

A quick roll up attempt by Kasey Owens begins the match before Owens lands a sunset flip- as expected, Owens' speed allows her to gain the initial advantage before the strength of Viper is illustrated by a devastating lariat. A drop kick sends Owens to the outside before she recovers to plant Viper face first into the ring apron. After an irish whip into the barricade, Owens rolls Viper back into the ring. An attempted ddt is reversed into a vertical suplex by Viper before she drives home her advantage with a scoop slam. Viper, building momentum, attempts a running senton but misses as Kasey Owens escapes just in time. Owens, sensing an opportunity, attempts a penalty kick but misses before connecting with a cross body take down- kick out at 2 by Viper. As the two return to their feet, Viper and Owens trade vicious forearm blows before Viper delivers a Viper Bomb to pick up the victory and advance to the semi finals.

Winner: Viper

After the match, Viper's husband, D.C.T., made his way to the ring to address Bram. Once again, the international sex hero D.C.T. reiterated that he is coming for Bram. A strong performance here by Viper ensures she heads into the semi finals with Nikki Storm and Layla Rose. With one semi finalist yet to be determined, Viper remains my pick to be crowned the first ever ICW Women's Champion.

Drew Galloway vs Kris Travis

18 months ago, Kris Travis was diagnosed with stomach cancer. After a long and arduous recovery, Kris Travis miraculously makes his return to an ICW ring at A Horse, A Spoon, And a Bucket to raucous chants of "welcome back". Red Lightning, as is seemingly tradition now, gave the ICW World Heavyweight Championship, Drew Galloway, his introduction. Accompanied by Jack Jester, Galloway makes his way to the ring surrounded by boos that were once cheers.

Galloway immediately demonstrates his size and strength advantage by pushing Travis into the corner whilst still wearing his hoodie. Again, Travis attempts to lock up with Galloway but Galloway just pushes him back into the corner. Travis, encouraged by the crowd, escapes the corner with several elbows before connecting with a hurricanrana that sends the champion to the outside. Flustered and frustrated, Galloway removes his hoodie before trading chops on the ring apron. An enziguri by Travis sends Galloway stumbling back into the ring. A second hurricanrana attempt by Travis is reversed into a gut buster by the champion before the cerebral Galloway begins to work on the stomach of Travis. Several shots to the stomach result in a chin lock by Galloway in the centre of the ring- Travis reverses with a crucifix but a forearm followed by a single knee gut buster allows Galloway to remain on top. Stalking Kris Travis, Galloway unloads several big right hands to the stomach of Travis. An attempted leg drop by the champion is dodged by the challenger- an enziguri knocks Galloway off balance before Travis, mustering all his energy reserves, lifts Galloway up and connects with a death valley driver- Galloway kicks out at 2. A lariat followed by a spinning heel kick ensures Travis is able to connect with a bulldog for another near fall.

Another enziguri sends Galloway to the outside- Travis, famed for his high flying ability, connects first with a baseball slide followed by a tope con hilo into the crowd. After rolling Galloway back into the ring, Travis attempts a cross body but is reversed by Galloway into an inverted alabama slam. Galloway, sensing imminent victory, shows the thumbs down before a Future Shock ddt is reversed with a kick to the face. Travis heads to the top rope before an enziguri sends Travis off balance. Galloway joins Travis on the top rope before delivering an inverted superplex to the challenger...1...2... Travis remains in the contest with a late kick out. Galloway, increasingly angered by Travis' resiliency, calls Red Lightning over to the ring apron- Red Lightning holds Travis' flaccid body up before Travis ducks out the way as Galloway's boot connects with Red Lightning. As Galloway turns around, Travis connects with a superkick- Galloway flips off Travis before connecting with an enziguri. Galloway, after ragging Travis to his feet, delivers a Future Shock ddt to retain the title.


Winner: Drew Galloway

After the match, Red Lightning, speaking on behalf of the Black Label, remarks on how Kris Travis has impressed all in attendance tonight including himself. Red Lightning proceeds to ask Travis to join the Black Label. After a minutes deliberation, Kris Travis hugs Galloway and high fives Red Lightning before telling them where to stick their offer with an emphatic "fuck you". Inevitably, the beat down begins by Galloway and Red Lightning whilst Jack Jester heads to find his corkscrew. Jester gestures to reveal his intentions before Grado rushes out to make the save. It isn't long until the numbers game catches up with Grado- but out comes ICW's Ironman Joe Coffey to make the save. Coffey has Galloway positioned for the Future Shock ddt before Jester blind sides Coffey with a cheap shot from behind as the Black Label control the ring.

A huge roar breaks out as Damo, injured left leg in cast, hobbles down to clear the ring as Grado, Coffey, Travis and Damo stand in the ring whilst Galloway, Jester and Red Lightning flee to the outside. Grado, displaying intensity not at all associated with his happy go lucky persona, lambastes Galloway for ducking his challenge over the past month before calling him McIntyre and the chosen one. Having succeeded in getting a reaction out of the champion, Galloway retorts that he is the chosen one of professional wrestling to which Grado responds he is the chosen one of ICW underscored by wild cheers. Galloway, visibly agitated by the support Grado is receiving, remarks that people come to see ICW for him, the wrestler, and for Grado, the clown, before accepting Grado's challenge at ICW: Fear and Loathing VIII, November 15th.

Red Lightning, though, has other ideas and states that the match will not be going ahead before ICW owner Mark Dallas, after a six month hiatus, returned to hand Red Lightning his final warning. To chants of "thank you, Dallas", ICW's owner announces that the match will be happening at the SECC. Chants of ICW reverberate around the arena as the huge announcement of the main event for Fear and Loathing VIII concludes what has been a fantastic run at the Edinburgh Fringe festival.

For me, Grado vs Drew is the only match ICW could have booked to headline the biggest show in their history. The match pits Drew Galloway, the man who has turned his back on the fans to secure his position as champion, against Grado, the man of the people. It is undisputed champion vs underdog, pure athlete vs the jester, corporate vs the people and it is going to be fantastic.

Give this company your money.

Matches of the Week: 22/08-28/08

Wrestling fans were treated  to a mouthwatering weekend of action this past week. ROH, NXT and WWE all presented strong cards and didn't disappoint; ROH, with the addition of some of the finest Japanese talent, put on two excellent shows in Philadelphia and New York, NXT, for the first time in their history, outgrew their Full Sail roots and headed to the Barclays Centre, NYC and ,despite low expectations, Summerslam delivered one of their better PPV's this year.

This week's matches of the week begins with the biggest event of the summer, Summerslam.

Seth Rollins vs John Cena 

Title for title match

Available to watch here.

Since being crowned WWE World Heavyweight Champion at WrestleMania XXXI, Seth Rollins has proven exactly why he is the future of the business. Rollins' weasely, cowardly antics have generated considerable heat thus making him the perfect antagonist to carrythe show. Since being crowned US Champion at WrestleMania XXXI, John Cena has been putting on some of the best matches of his career against the likes of Ambrose, Stardust, Kevin Owens, Neville and Cesaro regardless of the remarkably similar match formula. Seemingly, Cena and Rollins were on a collision course and after Cena submitted the WWE World Heavyweight Champion post a broken nose, the match was booked for Summerslam; if Rollins won he wins Cena's US Championship, If Cena won he wins Rollins' WWE WHC.

The initial exchange of holds is broken as Cena successfully lands a side headlock take down which is greeted with vociferous boos. After being encouraged by the crowd, Rollins escapes and connects with a drop kick before mocking Cena's trademark U CNT C ME. Again, Cena applies a headlock after a belly to belly suplex grounds Rollins and again, with the encouragement of the crowd, escapes before Rollins delivers a knee to the spine that sends Cena reeling to the outside. Rollins harkens back to his Shield days as he connects with consecutive tope suicidas followed by a tope con hilo as a "lets go, Rollins" chant breaks out. Rollins, after returning Cena to the ring, attempts a running cross body- Cena reverses but can't apply the STF before Rollins reaches the ropes. A sloppy springboard stunner inevitably "barely caught" results in Cena successfully connecting with the 5 knuckle shuffle. Cena, with a growing advantage, positions Rollins up top before Rollins lands several blows that temporarily halt Cena- Rollins connects with a meteora followed by a beautiful standing shooting star press for a near fall.

After positioning Cena in the tree of woe, Rollins delivers a fierce double foot stomp from the top rope for another close fall. Rollins, frustrated by a perceived slow count by the referee, trash talks Cena before Cena pops up and delivers an AA- Rollins kicks out at 2. Both men return to their feet before rading blows- an attempted Pedigree is reversed by Cena into a slingshot but Rollins lands on the ropes. Cena, the wily veteran, follows Rollins before connecting with an electric chair drop/face buster combination. After Cena connects with a leg drop from the top rope, Rollins reverses the Super AA into a buckle bomb. Rollins, in homage to Eddie Guerrero, heads up to the top rope to soar through the sky to deliver a frog splash- Cena rolls through and attempts a second AA- Rollins lands on his feet before connecting with an enziguri. A rebounding Cena attempts a cross body but it is Rollins this time that rolls through before delivering an AA...1...2... Cena kicks out to avoid the humiliation of being pinned by his own shitty finisher. Rollins, again, heads up top- John Cena avoids a Phoenix Splash, Rollins lands on his feet but Cena grounds Rollins temporarily with a drop toe hold- Rollins connects with an enziguri before Cena attempts another AA- Rollins reverses, looks for the pedigree but that too is reversed this time into a Figure 4 Leg Lock in dedication of Ric Flair. Cheers once again encourage Rollins to reverse the hold- which he does before Cena reaches the ropes.

A huge forearm knocks Rollins down as Cena heads up top again- Rollins, returning to his feet, incapacitates Cena who remains on the top rope. Rollins connects with the superplex/falcon arrow combination...1...2... Cena kicks out again. Rollins, with increased urgency, positions Cena for the Phoenix Splash but eats a face full of canvas- Cena, on his feet, delivers a second AA but concurrently knocks down the referee. Cena, unaware of the referee's demise, hooks the leg....1....2...3...4...5...6...7.. but no one makes the count. Cena, realising this, calls for another referee to emerge but Rollins delivers a knee to the face of Cena that sends him crashing to the mat. Jon Stewart, host of SummerSlam, heads down to the ring accompanied by a steel chair. Caught between a man who has tormented him since prior to WrestleMania and a man who could equal his idol, Ric Flair's, number of title reigns, Stewart drives the chair into the stomach of Cena before sliding the chair to Rollins. Ever the opportunist, Rollins delivers a pedigree on the steel chair before the referee slides back into the ring to make the three count as the Brooklyn crowd comes unglued.

Rollins wins the US States Championship for the first time.

Many will suggest that this brilliant match was marred by a questionable finish. Whilst that may be true, the match should not be discarded like a Jack Swagger vs Heath Slater match from Main Event. This was one of the best WWE matches of the year that marked Rollins arrival as WWE World Heavyweight Champion. Encouraged by the crowd throughout, Rollins unquestionably played the face for the majority of the match. For fans who haven't seen his independent work as Tyler Black, many would be surprised as to some of the athletic/high flying moves he performed. Rollins worked a move set closer to his ROH as he had the crowd in the palm of his hand; if the match proves one thing, Seth Rollins is the future of the WWE.

Sasha Banks vs Bayley

NXT Women's Championship

Available to watch here.

This Saturday's NXT: Takeover Brooklyn boasted two main events. Both Balor/Owens and Banks/Bayley co main evented the Brooklyn special but there is no question which match stole the show. Over the past year, NXT has been the host of a legitimate, competitive women's division for the first time in WWE history. After Stephanie McMahon reminded all the audience it was her that orchestrated the "diva's revolution", McMahon introduced both Sasha and Bayley to raucous ovations.

Before the match begins, Sasha calls Bayley pathetic before Bayley connects with several forearm strikes. Sasha reverses a clothesline attempt before sending Bayley crashing into the turn buckle. Bayley dodges a vicious chop in the corner before connecting with a springboard elbow drop for a close fall. Sasha  grounds Bayley upon returning to her feet- Sasha lifts Bayley to the top rope but an attempted superplex is blocked. Sasha rags Bayley down from the top before talking a little more trash- after slapping Bayley, Sasha applies a japanese choke hold as the crowd wills Bayley on. After escaping the hold, Bayley is sent into the turnbuckle- Sasha positions Bayley on the top rope before connecting with a double knee drop- only two.

Again, Sasha informs Bayley how much better she is than her- this time Bayley puts a stop to the trash talking with a kick to the face followed by a drop toe hold that sends Sasha crashing into the turnbuckle. Sasha reverses a second drop toe hold attempt before wrenching the injured left arm of Bayley on the rope.  Sasha Sabre Jr. goes to work on the left wrist of Bayley outside of the ring after removing the protective brace- as the referee approaches the ten count, Sasha rolls Bayley back into the ring before rolling her back out again to continue working over the left wrist. After completely exposing Bayley's wrist, Sasha Banks begins to stomp on it- once again, the referee approaches ten before Sasha returns to the ring before a tope con hilo sends her crashing into Bayley.

Back in the ring, Sasha slaps Bayley to her feet once again. Sasha and Bayley trade blows in the centre of the ring before several double axe handles allow Bayley to gain some control- a suplex into the corner is followed by a Bayley splash. An attempted Bayley to Belly is reversed as Sasha Banks as she expertly locks in the Bank Statement submission. Bayley desperately scrambles towards the ropes but Sasha stomps her hand further- eventually, Bayley successfully claws her way to the ropes. After the referee breaks the hold, Bayley delivers a Bayley to Belly to surprise Sasha. Sensing her opportunity to finally win the big one, Bayley positions Sasha for the Bayley-canrana but Sasha blocks and sends Bayley crashing to the mat. From the second rope, Sasha connects with a meteora..1...2... Bayley kicks out. Sasha, perhaps looking for the superplex, lifts Bayley to the top but it is Bayley that temporarily incapacitates Sasha- Bayley spikes Sasha with the Bayley-canrana before connecting with a second Bayley to Belly...1...2...3! Bayley is the next NXT Women's Champion.

After the match, the "four horse women" of NXT hugged it out in a fitting ending to their time in NXT.

Straight up, this was the best women's wrestling match in the history of WWE. Sasha Banks is a consummate in ring technician and is closer to a Daniel Bryan than a Nikki Bella. Banks transcends the often derogatory term 'diva'. She is a wrestler first and foremost. Bayley, too, played her part and has the innate ability to connect with fans both young and old, male or female. Inconsistent selling by Bayley limits this match to a **** 1/2 stars. Regardless of minor quibbles, this match told a fantastic story although remarkably similar to Sami Zayn's road to redemption. However, sometimes the simplest stories in wrestling are often the best and this match testifies to that.

Kazuchika Okada vs Roderick Strong

Non Title Match

Available to watch here.

Few can argue Roderick Strong is not having the best year of his career so far. Over the past year, Roddy Strong has transferred seamlessly between heel PWG World Champion and the face of ROH. Excellent matches against Trevor Lee, 'Speedball' Mike Bailey, Moose, Michael Elgin, Chris Hero and Cage alongside match of the year contenders against the likes of Zack Sabre Jr, Jay Lethal and Shinsuke Nakamura have firmly established Roddy as a strong contender for wrestler of the year. Over in Japan, Kazuchika Okada has featured in some match of the year contenders himself; at WK9, Okada excelled in a losing effort against Tanahashi. More recently, at Dominion 7.5., Okada defeated AJ Styles for the IWGP Heavyweight Championship in one of the finest matches of 2015 before an excellent showing in the G1 Climax tournament as IWGP Heavyweight Champion.

Roderick Strong receives a warm welcome from the ROH fans. Okada dollars and streamers fall from the sky as Okada makes his way to the ring. After an initial exchange of holds, Okada delivers a dropkick to Strong before applying an abdominal stretch. Strong breaks the hold before Strong delivers a dropkick of his own in a game of one-upmanship- Strong follows up with a series of devastating chops in the corner underscored by the woos of the crowd. After a vertical suplex, Strong applies a rear chin lock as he begins work on the neck and back of the IWGP Heavyweight Championship. Okada momentarily escapes before Strong once again corners him with several chops before reapplying the rear chin lock. Okada, after reaching the ropes, trades blows with Mr ROH  before Roddy sends him to the outside. Sensing his opportunity, Strong takes advantage by suplexing Okada into the crowd followed by two more on the barriers.

Unwisely, Strong allows Okada to return to the ring on his own accord before the twenty count.A slip behind neck breaker followed by a ddt allows Okada to build some momentum before Strong pulls him down from the rope. Strong, uncharacteristically, heads to the top rope but a beautifully executed dropkick sends Strong to the outside. Roddy Strong regains the advantage with a back suplex on the apron but quickly loses it as they return to the ring as Okada hits the neck breaker to the knee. Both men return to their feet at the same time before trading vicious blows in the centre- Strong with the chops, Okada with the uppercuts. Strong emerges victorious from the battle after an olympic slam- Strong lifts Okada up looking for the superplex before Okada pushes him off only for Strong to connect with an enziguri to unbalance Okada. Strong finally delivers a superplex before applying the Strong hold- Okada successfully claws his way to the ropes. Strong looks to drive home his advantage- attempted End of Heartache blocked by Okada, attempted Rainmaker blocked by Strong with three consecutive jumping knees. Strong connects with the double knees to the gut before delivering a thunderous sick kick...1...2... Okada kicks out. Somehow, upon both men returning to their feet, Okada delivers a Tombstone piledriver- Strong kicks out at 2. Okada plants Strong again with a Tombstone before lifting him up for the Rainmaker- again Strong blocks before attempting a jumping knee but this time Okada catches him to deliver a german suplex- Okada keeps hold before delivering the Rainmaker to pick up the victory.

This is exactly the type of match you would expect from these two. Arguably, both are enjoying the best run of their careers so far and that was reflected in this encounter. Roddy Strong and Okada continue to perform in some of the best matches in the world of wrestling today with an excellent match here.

Hirooki Goto vs Michael Elgin

None Title Match

Available to watch here.

Fresh off a career defining G1 Climax tournament in which he proved many of his critics wrong, Michael Elgin returned to ROH duty this past weekend at Field of Honour 2015. His opponent, also fresh off an impressive G1 Climax tournament, made not only his ROH debut but his U.S debut. Hirooki Goto, IWGP Intercontinental Champion, once again comes up against Elgin, a man he defeated in the G1 Climax tournament.

Both competitors adhere to the code of honour before proceedings get under way. As expected, the match begins with Elgin and Goto trading fierce blows before Elgin grounds the taller but lighter Goto with a shoulder block take down. Goto, returning to his feet, attempts a clothesline but it doesn't make an impression on Big Mike. A second clothesline successfully grounds Elgin as both men lock up once again- Elgin delivers a big lariat to send Goto to the outside. Elgin, in control, delivers several chops around the baseball field before connecting with a huge lariat that sends Goto into the crowd. After returning Goto to the ring, Elgin performed a 33 second long suspended vertical suplex- a suplex which wowed the Japanese crowds.

Elgin, going up top, lands a corkscrew senton before Goto connects with a lariat to halt Elgin's momentum. Returning to their feet, Goto and Elgin trade blows in the centre of the ring before a standing enziguri by Elgin allows him to capitalise with successive german suplexes- Goto blocks the third but an okada roll enables Elgin to land a third. Again, Elgin returned to a move that brought him a lot of success in Japan- Elgin lands the falcon arrow...1...2... kick out by Goto. Elgin, looking to stake his claim for the IWGP Intercontinental Championship, attempts a buckle bomb but it is blocked by Goto- Goto lifts Elgin to the top, after incapacitating Big Mike with several headbutts, before delivering a canadian destroyer from the top rope....1...2... Unbreakable Michael Elgin kicks out. After a neck breaker on the knee, Goto looks to finish the match with the Ura Shouten but Elgin blocks. An attempted sunset flip is blocked by Goto before Goto successfully lifts Elgin for the Ura Shouten to pick up the victory in his ROH debut.

The match, whilst lacking the intensity of their G1 Climax meeting, still delivered one of the best matches on a stacked Field of Honour card. Throughout the match, both Kevin Kelly and Steve Corino, in my eyes the best commentary team in the business, did a good job of highlighting Big Mike's achievements in Japan whilst suggesting he will be returning in the near future. Details of ROH's partnership with NJPW surfaced this past week detailing plans for ROH stars to head to Japan in a similar manner to how NJPW stars often wrestle with ROH. Initial rumours indicate a potential ROH World Championship match between Jay Lethal and Michael Elgin at the Tokyo Dome for Wrestle Kingdom 10. Regardless of rumours, if Elgin continues to perform how he has been doing for both ROH and NJPW he will cement himself as one of the best hoss gaijins in Japanese wrestling history with the likes of Stan Hansen and Vader.

IRN JEW vs The GZRS

The team of Sebastian and Tom Irvine,  or The GZRS as they prefer to be known, have been making quite a name for themselves as of late. Consistently hilarious performances in Progress, PCW and IPW have helped The GZRS quickly gain a reputation as a must see act in professional wrestling. Tonight, they meet the international dream team of Colt Cabana and Grado, IRN JEW, in a dream match up for fans of comedy wrestling. 

The GZRS arrive to the ring first; Sebastian in his faux Real Madrid kit, Tom Irvine in his trunks, both with a can of beer in their hand, make their way to the ring for their ICW debut. Next, IRN JEW make their way to the ring, matching jackets and all, to a huge ovation before American indie wrestling icon Colt Cabana chases Grado around the ring with a towel. Tom Irvine grabs the mic whilst Grado catches his breath. Before the match has chance to get under way, Tom Irvine challenges IRN JEW for their number one contendership- Colt Cabana agrees. As the match gets under way, Grado, much to the annoyance of Colt Cabana, tries to get a sip of Sebastian's beer. Cabana tries to stop Grado but evidently underestimated the Scotsman's need for alcoholic refreshment.

It is Irvine and Cabana that get things under way whilst Grado and Sebastian share a couple of beers in the corner. Confusion ensues as Grado tags Tom Irvine to enter the match- Grado and Colt Cabana square off in the centre of the ring- but what's this... Grado points the finger at Colt Cabana who goes crashing down to the mat. Grado hits the finger poke of doom! Tom Irvine sneaks in to try and pin Cabana but Grado pulls him off before connecting with a devastating belly bump as chants of belly echo around the arena. Grado, driving home the advantage, connects with a sunset flip whilst concurrently pulling down the trunks of Diamond Geezer, Tom Irvine, before driving him shoulder first into the ring post after a short bdsm session with IRN JEW. Sebastian rushes into save his fellow GEEZR- Grado reverses with a drop toe hold as Sebastian precariously hangs mere centimetres away from Irvine's marmite motorway before Cabana pushes his face into Irvine's back passage. 

Colt Cabana, distracted by Grado's antics, receives an arm wrench by Sebastian- Cabana demonstrates his technical acumen with an impressive roll up before Grado informs Cabana he has a new move. Cabana, curious as everyone in the building, tags in Grado. In one of the more impressive sights in wrestling, Grado performs a cartwheel into a head scissor take down that sends Sebastian reeling to the outside. Aided by Colt Cabana, Grado heads up to the top rope, perhaps looking for the best moonsault ever- Irvine spots the attempt before delivering a hugely traumatic thumb up the bum! Sebastian joins in the debauchery as a drop toe hold positions Grado in-between the second and top rope- Sebastian delivers a ferocious kick to the ass to ensure Grado will not be sitting down any time soon.

Tom Irvine returns to a tactic that has brought The GZRS a lot of success in the match- once again, Irvine attempts the thumb up the bum but this time Grado reverses by sending Irvine's thumb into his mouth. Grado, after severe punishment to the ass, tags in Cabana who connects with the flying ass on Sebastian before Sebastian reverses with an S.T.O. Irvine heads up to the top rope before delivering a head butt to the groin of Cabana a la Dudley Boys. The two GZRS stand facing each other in the ring- they know what time it is. Sebastian calls for the slip n slide! 

Professional wrestling has seen it all; an immortal necromancer that works as an undertaker, a midget confused about his species orientation, an insensitive portrayal of the mentally handicapped, hell that doesn't even begin to cover Big Dick Johnson. Never before have I seen a slip n side. 

The GZRS attempt to send Colt Cabana down the slip n slide and crashing into the ring post but Sebastian slips in the process resulting in him being sent down the treacherous slip n slide. Cabana and Grado send Irvine crashing head first into the nether regions of Sebastian who must be lamenting the decision to bring the slip n slide out. Grado connects with the Roll n Slice before Sebastian attempts to get to his feet but keeps slipping over- Cabana picks him up to deliver the Get Tae Bed/Wee Boot combination to pick up the win and remain number one contenders to Polo Promotions ICW Tag Team Championship.

This match is an absolute must see for fans of comedy wrestling. Hell, everyone should see this match. Anyone who gets a slip n slide out mid match is 

ICW: The Ministry of Silly Headlocks

"Sports Entertainment is a disease, ICW is the cure."

Billy Kirkwood

ICW returned to the City Nightclub, Edinburgh, for the penultimate show of their festival run. As usual, Mark Dallas' company provided a unique blend of comedy, debauchery and professional wrestling in what was their best festival show to date; Red Lightning, ICW General Manager, continued to shape the company in his corrupt image, The GZRS made an immediate impression to the ICW faithful with a hilarious match against fan favourites, IRN JEW, the N.A.K sought to resurrect their aura of indestructibility against Legion in a preview of their impending steel cage match at Fear and Loathing VIII and a beautiful, or reprehensible, plan ensured Lionheart picked up his first win in ICW since returning from a life threatening injury to leave the crowd both betrayed and infuriated. 

The show began, though, with a man who has dwelt in the shadows of ICW for a long time.

Davey Boy vs Chris Renfrew

Since his former ally and friend, Stevie Boy, joined the N.A.K a few months ago, Davey Boy has been forced to walk alone. Chastened by his former brother's treachery, Davey Boy has ditched the happy go lucky attitude in favour of a more aggressive, no nonsense, approach to his matches. Accompanied by Wee Man, Davey Boy is the first to the ring. His opponent, Chris Renfrew, holder of the Square Go briefcase, is next to emerge from the curtain. As part of the N.A.K., Renfrew and co fought the Bucky Boys up and down the country; now, Stevie Boy stands shoulder to shoulder with his former enemy, Renfrew. Stevie Boy disappears as quickly as he arrived before Renfrew spits on the Wee Man as he enters the ring. 

Immediately as the bell rings, Davey Boy takes the fight to Renfrew with a double leg take down before driving multiple clubbing blows into the face of Renfrew. Renfrew rolls to the outside but Davey Boy doesn't allow him to dictate the pace of the match- Davey Boy connects with a tope suicida followed by a dropkick to the outside. Davey Boy attempts a second tope suicida but connects this time Chris Renfrew's briefcase- the second in two weeks, this is why Renfrew shouldn't have nice things. Renfrew, sadistically, rolls back into the ring before beginning the systematic dismantling of Davey Boy. Renfrew looks for the T Virus piledriver but Davey Boy reverses into a big back body drop before connecting with a diving clothesline from the top rope. Davey Boy, sensing his opportunity to earn a huge victory over a key member of the N.A.K., lines up the spear but Renfrew reverses into a stunner- Davey Boy kicks out at 2. Renfrew slaps Davey Boy to his feet- Davey Boy raises a defiant middle finger to Renfrew, who sends Davey Boy crashing to the mat again with a vicious lariat- Davey Boy kicks out at 1! Spurred on by the capacity crowd, Davey Boy connects with a spear before lifting Renfrew onto his shoulders- Renfrew reverses, attempts a T Virus but is reversed into a spine buster by Davey Boy. Looking to send a message to Stevie Boy, Davey sets up a Glasgow Destroyer- Renfrew reverses into an Alabama slam. 

Before Renfrew can make the cover, a video of Mikey Whiplash appears on screen to distract Renfrew. The distraction by Whiplash grants Davey Boy time to recover- Davey Boy takes advantage with the F5/Stunner combination Billy Kirkwood appropriately named "The Kill List". Davey Boy begins the long process of exorcising his demons here with a victory over an N.A.K. member partly responsible for Stevie Boy turning his back on the Bucky Boys. This was a really fast paced match to start the show- Davey Boy's new found aggression is refreshing and this was one of his finest performances in singles action to date. 

Winner: Davey Boy

Lionheart vs Kenny Williams

Lionheart made his third ICW appearance since recovering from not only a career but a life threatening neck injury. Since his return, Lionheart has lost all his matches. At ICW: The Ministry of Silly Headlocks, Lionheart faces a man he has met previously. Weighing in at 1.121 gigawatts, the bollocks, Kenny Williams, makes his way to the ring hoping to regain some momentum after losing the Zero G Championship a couple of months ago. 

As the bell rings, both competitors demonstrate their excellent chemistry with a series of reversals. Kenny Williams sends Lionheart to the outside before missing with a tope suicida, crashing into the barricade head first. Lionheart rolls Williams back in the ring and delivers a series of chops in the corner before connecting with a helluva kick- Lionheart loses his balance as Kenny Williams drives his knees into the back of Lionheart's neck. 

Then, silence.

All was still.

Not one person made a sound as medical assistants poured out from behind the curtain to observe Lionheart, who lay motionless on the mat. Red Lightning, putting his corrupt authoritarian persona aside, emerged from behind the curtain to help a friend. Kenny Williams sat inconsolable in the corner before Lionheart sprung to his feet, delivering a superkick to the distraught Williams to pick up the victory as ferocious boos echo around Edinburgh-his first victory in ICW since returning from injury. 

Wow. Many found Lionheart feigning an aggravation of a previous neck injury to be incredibly distasteful but it certainly got a reaction. Undeniably, wrestling is at its best when the lines between fiction and reality are distorted sufficiently enough for total suspension of disbelief; Lionheart made everyone believe  in order to pick up the victory over Kenny Williams. You can debate the ethical principles of such an action but the fact remains it achieved its purpose; not one person didn't feel a betrayed and subsequently booed Lionheart out the building. This is a really exciting development for one of Britain's finest.

Winner: Lionheart

Dickie Divers vs Trent Seven 

Disinterested, dismissive and apathetic, Dickie Divers makes his way to the ring looking like he wishes he could be anywhere but here. Since being defeated by Chris Refrew for the Square Go Briefcase at Shug's Hoose Party II, Dickie Divers has undergone a remarkable transformation; last week, Divers didn't even put up a fight against Damo. This week, Divers faces a man making his debut in Edinburgh, Trent Seven. 

As the bell rings, Divers just stands in the corner not willing to even engage Seven. Trent Seven, with a beard to make even the most conceited hipster blush, encourages the disinterested Divers to at at least try. Seven attempts to grapple Divers but Divers remains disinterested as he half heartedly locks up- Seven breaks the hold almost immediately. Chants of "always look on the bright side of life" reverberate around the City Nightclub as Trent Severn beseeches Divers to engage in a competitive match. Divers lays down and offers Trent the opportunity to pick up the win- ever the consummate professional, Seven decides against turning the match into a farce. Instead, Seven pulls Divers to his feet and delivers a series of devastating chops in the corner before going for the attempted googly. Finally, Divers shows some signs of interest as he moves out of the way before the googly can connect- Divers delivers multiple shots to the stomach followed by a german suplex. Divers continues the assault with numerous stomps to the head of Seven before connecting with an unenthusiastic rolling senton- Seven dodges the attempt and unloads with several forearms strikes which Divers laughs off. 

Trent Seven delivers 13 stiff chops in the corner before successfully connecting with the googly this time. Seven attempts a suplex to the outside but the attempt is blocked by Divers- Divers delivers a neck breaker with the assistance of the ropes. Divers continues the assault with a bulldog on the apron- Divers, impassive, looks for the unprettier but Seven catches him with a spinning heel kick. Seven drives home the advantage with a dragon suplex before connecting with a devastating spinning piledriver to pick up the victory. 

The competitive spirit has not been completely drained from Divers but his struggles continue. A backstage segment later in the show saw a tentative agreement between Divers and Toal; Toal will now be Divers' manager.

Winner: Trent Seven

IRN JEW vs The GZRS

The team of Sebastian and Tom Irvine,  or The GZRS as they prefer to be known, have been making quite a name for themselves as of late. Consistently hilarious performances in Progress, PCW and IPW have helped The GZRS quickly gain a reputation as a must see act in professional wrestling. Tonight, they meet the international dream team of Colt Cabana and Grado, IRN JEW, in a dream match up for fans of comedy wrestling. 

The GZRS arrive to the ring first; Sebastian in his faux Real Madrid kit, Tom Irvine in his trunks, both with a can of beer in their hand, make their way to the ring for their ICW debut. Next, IRN JEW make their way to the ring, matching jackets and all, to a huge ovation before American indie wrestling icon Colt Cabana chases Grado around the ring with a towel. Tom Irvine grabs the mic whilst Grado catches his breath. Before the match has chance to get under way, Tom Irvine challenges IRN JEW for their number one contendership- Colt Cabana agrees. As the match gets under way, Grado, much to the annoyance of Colt Cabana, tries to get a sip of Sebastian's beer. Cabana tries to stop Grado but evidently underestimated the Scotsman's need for alcoholic refreshment.

It is Irvine and Cabana that get things under way whilst Grado and Sebastian share a couple of beers in the corner. Confusion ensues as Grado tags Tom Irvine to enter the match- Grado and Colt Cabana square off in the centre of the ring- but what's this... Grado points the finger at Colt Cabana who goes crashing down to the mat. Grado hits the finger poke of doom! Tom Irvine sneaks in to try and pin Cabana but Grado pulls him off before connecting with a devastating belly bump as chants of belly echo around the arena. Grado, driving home the advantage, connects with a sunset flip whilst concurrently pulling down the trunks of Diamond Geezer, Tom Irvine, before driving him shoulder first into the ring post after a short bdsm session with IRN JEW. Sebastian rushes into save his fellow GEEZR- Grado reverses with a drop toe hold as Sebastian precariously hangs mere centimetres away from Irvine's marmite motorway before Cabana pushes his face into Irvine's back passage. 

Colt Cabana, distracted by Grado's antics, receives an arm wrench by Sebastian- Cabana demonstrates his technical acumen with an impressive roll up before Grado informs Cabana he has a new move. Cabana, curious as everyone in the building, tags in Grado. In one of the more impressive sights in wrestling, Grado performs a cartwheel into a head scissor take down that sends Sebastian reeling to the outside. Aided by Colt Cabana, Grado heads up to the top rope, perhaps looking for the best moonsault ever- Irvine spots the attempt before delivering a hugely traumatic thumb up the bum! Sebastian joins in the debauchery as a drop toe hold positions Grado in-between the second and top rope- Sebastian delivers a ferocious kick to the ass to ensure Grado will not be sitting down any time soon.

Tom Irvine returns to a tactic that has brought The GZRS a lot of success in the match- once again, Irvine attempts the thumb up the bum but this time Grado reverses by sending Irvine's thumb into his mouth. Grado, after severe punishment to the ass, tags in Cabana who connects with the flying ass on Sebastian before Sebastian reverses with an S.T.O. Irvine heads up to the top rope before delivering a head butt to the groin of Cabana a la Dudley Boys. The two GZRS stand facing each other in the ring- they know what time it is. Sebastian calls for the slip n slide! 

Professional wrestling has seen it all; an immortal necromancer that works as an undertaker, a midget confused about his species orientation, an insensitive portrayal of the mentally handicapped, hell that doesn't even begin to cover Big Dick Johnson. Never before have I seen a slip n side. 

The GZRS attempt to send Colt Cabana down the slip n slide and crashing into the ring post but Sebastian slips in the process resulting in him being sent down the treacherous slip n slide. Cabana and Grado send Irvine crashing head first into the nether regions of Sebastian who must be lamenting the decision to bring the slip n slide out. Grado connects with the Roll n Slice before Sebastian attempts to get to his feet but keeps slipping over- Cabana picks him up to deliver the Get Tae Bed/Wee Boot combination to pick up the win and remain number one contenders to Polo Promotions ICW Tag Team Championship.

Lou King Sharpe returns

Lou King Sharpe rushed out to the ring before security began to swarm around him. The only man in history for getting fired for being a 'dick', Sharpe lays into various members of the security team before Saqib Ali runs in to help his friend. Toal, manager of Saqib Ali, orders both men to stop before reminding Lou King Sharpe he was fired for being a dick to ICW General manager, Red Lightning, on Twitter. However, Toal informs the audience and Sharpe, he has found a loophole in the ICW rules & regulations- being a dick on social media does not contravene the company hand book. 

Toal proceeds to rehire Lou King Sharpe as Sharpe and Ali celebrate in the ring.

Legion vs the N.A.K.

In a preview of their impending steel cage match at the SECC, the first in ICW history, Legion, comprised of Mikey Whiplash, Michael Dante and Tommy End, took on the N.A.K., comprised of Wolfgang, BT Gunn and Stevie Boy. Over the past few weeks, tensions between these two teams has further increased as it appears there is only room for one of these factions in ICW.

After having their aura of indestructibility penetrated by Legion a couple of weeks ago, the N.A.K arrive first. Two weeks ago, Legion emphatically dismantled the N.A.K before performing a crucifixion of Wolfgang. This week, the N.A.K look to re-establish themselves as the dominant faction of ICW. Legion arrive. Each member of Legion has their face painted in the style of Mikey Whiplash to demonstrate the brotherhood and unity between these three men. It isn't long before an arena wide brawl ensues; Michael Dante dismantles the ringside barriers as Tommy End and Stevie Boy brawl near the bar. Mikey Whiplash and BT Gunn brawl ringside. This isn't a wrestling match. This is a fight as BT Gunn begins to bleed from above his left eyebrow. The N.A.K regain some control-in the loosest sense of the word- as Wolfgang, after sending Whiplash crashing head first into a wall, comes to the aid of Gunn. The N.A.K's momentum doesn't last long as Michael Dante powerbombs Stevie Boy into the mass of bodies. Barely a second passes before all the men return to their feet such is the hatred. It is the N.A.K who emerge victorious from his particular brawl as the cut off Mikey Whiplash in the ring. As ever, the N.A.K use the numbers game to their advantage as BT Gunn strangles his long term rival with an N.A.K t shirt. The N.A.K control the ring ensuring neither End nor Dante can come to the assistance of Whiplash. Somehow, Whiplash manages to send the N.A.K to the outside before connecting with three consecutive virgin suicide dives to the outside!

Legion, now with the momentum, roll BT Gunn back into the ring- End, after going for a cover, moves out the way as Wolfgang's moonsault comes crashing down on his team mate. Tommy End connects with a jumping knee to send Wolfgang to the outside. A three way powerslam by Legion is followed up by a shining wizard by Mikey Whiplash followed by a running senton by Dante followed by a double foot stomp by End. Before any member of Legion has the chance to make the cover, Stevie Boy and Wolfgang pull Tommy End and Michael Dante to the outside to once again cut off Mikey Whiplash in the ring. Gunn and Stevie Boy connect with a double superkick before Wolfgang delivers a devastating pop up powerbomb. Stevie Boy lands a moonsault before Tommy End breaks up the count- after trading blows with one of the best strikers in the world, Stevie Boy lands the Devil's Halo...1...2....End kicks out. Whiplash, returning to his feet, delivers a lariat to take out Stevie Boy- Whiplash and Wolfgang face off in the ring before Wolfgang pokes Whiplash in the eye. Attempted moonsault missed by Wolfgang- Michael Dante, now back in the foray, drivers a half and half suplex before meeting a huge lariat by BT Gunn. Tommy End grounds BT Gunn with a jumping knee before Stevie Boy connects with a superkick on End- Whiplash sends Stevie Boy crashing to the mat with a spinning uppercut before Wolfgang delivers a devastating pop up powerslam. Michael Dante connects with the spear as all men are down.

A "this is awesome" chant breaks out as the six men clamber to their feet before a six man brawl breaks out once again. End, Dante, Stevie Boy and Wolfgang brawl on the outside whilst  Mikey Whiplash and BT Gunn continue their personal vendetta in the ring. Whiplash and Gunn trade fierce forearm strikes before Whiplash lifts Gunn up for the Zombie Maker- meanwhile, Wolfgang grabs the brass knuckles but before he has a chance to connect with Whiplash Dante pulls him to the outside- but the distraction is enough for Chris Renfrew, now in the centre of the action despite not being featured in the match, to connect with a stunner. Gunn makes the cover and the N.A.K are victorious. 

End and Dante, though, aren't finished yet as they continue the fight despite the bell. However, it isn't long until the numbers catch up with End and Dante as the N.A.K re-assert themselves as the most dominant faction in ICW with a devastating display. This isn't just one of the hottest rivalries in ICW, tt is one of the hottest rivalries in the world of professional wrestling today.

Sammi Jayne (w/ Nikki Storm) vs Layla Rose

An eight way elimination tournament will determine who is the first ever ICW Women's Champion to be crowned at Fear and Loathing VIII. Last week, Nikki Storm defeated Debbie Sharpe to advance to the semi finals where she will meet the winner of Sammi Jayne vs Layla Rose. Sammi Jayne, protege of Nikki Storm and self proclaimed "second best in the universe", faces the undefeated Barbie Breaker, Layla Rose. 

Sammi Jayne gets things under way with a cheap shot before the two trade forearms blows in the centre of the ring. A basement dropkick grounds Layla Rose as Jayne proceeds to smash Rose's face on the mat. Rose rolls to the outside before Sammi Jayne connects with a tope suicida- Jayne, surprisingly dictating the pace of the match, rolls Rose back into the ring before attempting an unsuccessful senton. Layla Rose, taking advantage of Jayne's mistake, delivers a clothesline followed by a snap suplex- Jayne kicks out at 2. Rose connects with a fall away slam before missing a clothesline attempt- Jayne takes advantage with another basement dropkick that takes Rose's legs from underneath her. Jayne attempts another lariat but is reversed- Rose lands a german suplex-kick out at 2. Nikki Storm temporarily distracts Layla Rose allowing her protege time to recover- Sammi Jayne connects with a fierce enziguri before celebrating a la Storm in the ring. Much to the disapproval of Storm, Layla Rose recovers to deliver the Barbie breaker to a distracted Sammi Jayne to pick up the victory. Layla Rose advances to the semi finals and remains a strong favourite to be crowned ICW's first ever Women's Champion. 

After the match, the self proclaimed best in the universe, Nikki Storm, gives the second best in the universe a dressing down in the ring. For a moment, it looks as though Sammi Jayne is going to attack her mentor but she decides against it as the pair leave together.

Winner: Layla Rose

Noam Dar vs Red Lightning

One of the men from the rebel alliance, Noam Dar, made his way to the ring with a fantastic opportunity to inflict retribution on a man who has consistently attempted to hold him down over the past year. But before he could enter the ring, Sha Samuels and Jack Jester blindsided the Jew-di master to begin the vicious two on one assault. Now in the ring, Samuels strangled Dar with his scarf before Jack Jester delivers a devastating tombstone piledriver. Red Lightning deems now an appropriate time to emerge from behind the curtain. Red Lightning, after asking the ref to ring the bell, covers Noam Dar to pick up the victory before celebrating in the ring.

Red Lightning, Jack Jester and Sha Samuels take up their position next to the commentators to observe a match they have a vested interest in. 

Winner: Red Lightning

Joe Coffey vs Drew Galloway

Last week, ICW's Ironman, Joe Coffey, cut the most passionate promo of his young career. After almost retiring, Coffey successfully convinced Red Lightning to give him a match with the ICW World Heavyweight Champion, Drew Galloway. At Shug's Hoose Party II, Galloway unthinkably joined Red Lightning and Jack Jester to form one of the most dangerous alliances in professional wrestling.

Joe Coffey is the first to arrive. No paint covers the torso of Joe Coffey as he heads to the ring all business. After an introduction by Red Lightning, Drew Galloway makes his way to the ring accompanied by resounding boos. Galloway's battle with the fans continue as he asks them to annunciate if they are going to chant at him. As the bell rings, Galloway decides he isn't ready to start the match yet and heads outside the ring. When he finally returns, Coffey emerges the victor from their first exchange as Drew scrambles to the ropes to break a crossface by Coffey. As Drew returns to his feet, Coffey attempts a shoulder block take down but the champion remains unmoved- this time, Coffey connects with a diving cross body to ground Drew. The ICW World Heavyweight Champion heads to the corner to regain his composure before Coffey connects with two hogbusters followed by a bulldog- kick out at 2. Firmly in control, Coffey delivers a series of chops in the corner underscored by chants of "Fuck TNA". 

Coffey grabs a mic before  proceeding to call Galloway a paper champion. Galloway, perhaps taking a page out of Red Lightning's play book, connects with a low blow before delivering a savage lariat that sends Coffey to the outside.

At this stage, a fan struck the champion before being chucked out the building. The fewer word said about this dickhead the better.

Now back in the ring, Galloway delivers multiple chops in the corner to Joe Coffey's exposed chest. An attempted Tombstone by Galloway is reversed by Coffey- a double leg take down grounds Galloway as Coffey attempts to lock in the Boston Crab but Coffey can't roll over the mass of Galloway. Alternatively, Coffey takes Galloway on a swing before a slingshot into the turnbuckle makes the champ's eyes roll to the back of his head. Coffey looks to press home the advantage with a hogbuster but Galloway has it scouted and connects with a dropkick. Unwisely, Galloway slaps Coffey to his feet- the slaps to the face only appear to anger Coffey. Coffey, now on his feet, irish whips Galloway into the turnbuckle- Coffey connects with the hogbuster before an attempted bulldog is reversed, Galloway rushes wildly towards Coffey who connects with a searing powerslam. 

Coffey doesn't have time to attempt a cover as Sha Samuels stands on the ring apron- a devastating forearm blow sends Samuels to the floor but the distraction was successful as Galloway delivers a northern lights suplex followed by a german in the corner. Sensing his opportunity to put one of his fiercest rivals to bed, Galloway lands the Tombstone piledriver...1...2... Coffey kicks out! The fans in attendance chant the Ironman beat to encourage Coffey to his feet. Galloway looks for the Future Shock ddt but Coffey reverses before connecting with a huge uppercut that sends the 6 ft 5', 260 pound ICW World Heavyweight Champion crashing to the mat. Coffey summons what little strength he has remaining to land a bridging dead lift german supex...1....2.. Red Lightning enters the ring before the ref has chance to count to three- Galloway takes advantage of the distraction. Galloway looks to end the match with a Tombstone- Coffey reverses and pushes Galloway in the direction of Red Lightning before stopping an imminent collision. Coffey lines up a Discuss Lariat but Galloway ducks out the way- instead, Coffey connects with Red Lightning. 

Galloway and Coffey, both on their feet, trade ferocious blows in the centre of the ring before Galloway emerges on top- Galloway lifts Coffey up to the top rope but, somehow, Coffey fends him off before connecting with a missile dropkick. Coffey lines up a Discuss Lariat for the champion but Jack Jester this time distracts the Ironman. Drew Galloway takes advantage of the distraction once again- this time Galloway puts what must be the final nail in Coffey's coffin with the Future Shock ddt...1...2.... Coffey kicks out! Once more, somehow, Joe Coffey, using the ropes for assistance, climbs to his feet. Galloway and Coffey trade blows before Joe Coffey connects with a discuss lariat...1...2... But before referee, Thomas Kearns, can make the count Red Lightning demands the match to be thrown out due to the multitude of shenanigans transpiring in the match. Jester and Samuels begin the beat down in the corner of the ring whilst Red Lightning mocks the broken Coffey. Drew Galloway gets involved, delivering multiple stomps before lifting Coffey up for the Future Shock ddt. Spontaneously, Red Lightning decides he would like a match against Joe Coffey before forcing the referee to ring the bell.

Red Lighting vs Joe Coffey 

Red Lightning immediately covers Joe Coffey to end the night 2-0 having defeated both Dar and Coffey.

Winner: Red Lightning

A video of Damo interrupts the festivities that temporarily distracts Red Lightning, Galloway, Jester and Samuels as Damo sneaks up behind them, chair in hand. Damo smashes the steel chair in the face of Jack Jester as Red Lightning and his cronies retreat backstage to close the show.

Matches of the Week 15/08- 21/08

This week's highly competitive matches of the week are, once again, dominated by the conclusion of NJPW's G1 Climax tournament. Featured this week are the Tanahashi/Nakamura match that ensured the G1 Climax tournament concluded with the match of the tournament and a fantastic match between the IWGP Junior Heavyweight Champion, Kushida, and Ricochet. However, not all the high profile matches from the closing weekend of NJPW's G1 Climax could make the list. Notable exceptions include the Okada/Nakamura match that determined the winner of Block B- Nakamura defeated the IWGP Heavyweight Champion via submission after an excellent match, The Young Bucks put on their best match to date with reDRagon in an unsuccessful attempt to defend the IWGP Junior Heavyweight Tag Team Championship and a fun tag match between the Bullet Club and Okada, Bennett and Tavern that suggested Styles still has unfinished business with the champion.

Elsewhere, at Evolve 47, Timothy Thatcher put on a wrestling clinic with Zack Sabre Jr along with a highly entertaining match between 'Speedball' Mike Bailey and Chris Hero.

Here are this week's matches of the week.

Hiroshi Tanahashi vs Shinsuke Nakamura

Available to watch here.

No surprises to begin with. Two of the finest in the world produced an instant classic in the final of this year's G1 Climax. After finishing at the top of Block A, Hiroshi Tanahashi met the winner of Block B, Shinsuke Nakamura, in a match that certainly did not disappoint.

After a serious of grappling exchanges, Tanahashi begins work on the knee looking to negate the Boma Ye. Tanahashi, demonstrating his years of experience, stomps on the left knee of Nakamura before applying a wrench lock. Nakamura reaches the ropes-Nakamura connects with a enziguri that sends Tanahashi to the outside. After landing multiple blows ringside, Nakamura rolls Tanahashi back inside the ring, applying a Japanese choke hold before transitioning into a side headlock. Buoyed by the support of the crowd, Tanahashi breaks free of the hold to deliver a powerslam- Tanahashi heads to the second rope and connects with a 180 splash.

After kicking out of the pin attempt, Nakamura reverses and stomps Tanahashi in the corner in his signature style. Tanahashi grabs Nakamura's leg to prematurely end his stomps- Tanahashi delivers a dragon screw leg whip as Nakamura rolls to the outside. Tanahashi, after heading to the top rope, connects with the High Fly Flow to the outside before rolling Nakamura back in the ring- Tanahashi isn't granted the opportunity to attempt the pin as Nakamura connects with a knee to keep Tanahashi outside.

Nakamura allows Tanahashi to return to the ring on his own accord before trading forearms strikes in the centre of the ring. Attempted cross body by Tanahashi misses- Nakamura takes advantage of his imbalance to deliver a back stabber followed by a half nelson suplex for a near fall.  Nakamura lines up the Boma Ye but Tanahashi delivers a basement dropkick to the knee before another dragon screw leg whip. Tanahashi locks in the Boston crab as Nakamura desperately claws his way to the ropes- Tanahashi follows the submission attempt with a michinoku driver for a near fall. Tanahashi heads up top again looking for the High Fly Flow- Nakamura scrambles out the way at the last second before connecting with a Boma Ye to the back of the head! Nakamura connects with a knee strike from the second rope before looking for a second Boma Ye- Tanahashi reverses, rolling out the way before rolling up Nakamura- kick out at 2. Nakamura, back to his feet, connects with a roundhouse kick before connecting with a second Boma Ye- Tanahashi kicks out at 2!

Nakamura, riddled with doubt, lines up another Boma Ye but Tanahashi reverses with the swingblade. Tanahashi heads to the top rope and connects with the High Fly Flow to a standing Nakamura before delivering a second...1...2... Nakamura kicks out. Dragon suplex attempt by Tanahashi blocked by Nakamura who swings around and connects with a stiff forearm- Nakamura and Tanahashi trade forearm shots in the centre of the ring before Nakamura connects with the Samoan Driver! Tanahashi, somehow, manages to kick out again as both men lay wasted on the ground, Remarkably, Tanahashi rises to his feet the same time as Nakamura before delivering another dragon screw leg whip before attempting a second swingblade but Nakamura reverses into a cross arm breaker! Wisely, Tanahashi keeps his arms tightly locked together to deny Nakamura the opportunity to apply maximum leverage. Tanahashi powers out before Nakamura connects with another Boma Ye. Somehow Tanahashi kicks out at the last available opportunity. Nakamura lifts Tanahashi to the tope rope- Tanahashi regains consciousness before the two trade forearms shots on the top rope. Incredibly, Tanahashi somehow connects with the High Fly Flow whilst the two men are on the top rope. Sensing his opportunity to headline Wrestle Kingdom 10, Tanahashi delivers a second High Fly Flow followed by a third to pick up the victory and head to the main event of NJPW's biggest show of the year.

Holy fucking shit. What a great match this was. Two of the best in the world perform to the best of their abilities and produced an absolute classic. According to Meltzer, Tanahashi now has as many five star matches since 2012 as WWE do in their entire history. Sure, I can understand certain people's frustrations with Tanahashi being victorious here due to his reputation as the Japanese John Cena. However, I feel the comparison is completely reductive and Tanahashi proved once again here why he is one of the very best in the world. When the time comes for considering match of the year contenders, this will undoubtedly be a major part of those discussions.

Ricochet vs Kushida

Two months ago, Kushida defeated Kyle O Reilly to win the Best of Super Juniors tournament thus entitling him to a shot at Kenny Omega's IWGP Junior Heavyweight Championship. At Dominion 7.5, Kushida, after an engrossing match, submitted Kenny Omega with the Hoverboard Lock to be crowned the new IWGP Junior Heavyweight Champion in another break out performance. On 16th August, Kushida made his first IWGP Junior Heavyweight Championship defence against a familiar enemy in the form of Ricochet. In their previous encounter, Ricochet defeated Kushida to win the Best of Super Juniors 2014.

As the match begins, Kushida and Ricochet reach a stalemate as they jockey for position early on. A head scissor take down sends Kushida to the outside- Ricochet considers some aerial offence before deciding against it. Instead, Ricochet rebounds of the ropes and handsprings across the ring only for Kushida to connect with a drop kick allowing him to regain control. Kushida begins work on the left arm of Ricochet, looking to enfeeble it in order to ensure the likelihood of success with the Hoverboard Lock later on. Ricochet reverses with a blue thunder bomb as Kushida rolls to the outside again to regain his composure- Ricochet connects with the tope con hilo over the ring post sending Kushida crashing to the floor. After rolling Kushida back in the ring, Ricochet connects with a springboard 450- kick out at 2 by the champion. Kushida successfully lands a dropkick to send Ricochet reeling to the outside- a game of one-upmanship transpires as Kushida connects with a tope con hilo of his own. Kushida's momentum doesn't last long before Ricochet lands a back breaker followed by a standing shooting star press.

Ricochet, lifting the flaccid champion to his legs, attempts a tornado ddt but Kushida holds on to apply the Hoverboard Lock. Ricochet successfully claws his way to the ropes. Back to his feet, Ricochet attempts a diving cross body but Kushida catches him in that Hoverboard Lock. Writhing in pain, Ricochet powers to his feet to deliver a devastating single arm powerbomb-kick out at 2. Kushida and Ricochet trade forearm strikes in the centre of the ring before a spinning heel kick grounds Kushida- Ricochet, dragging Kushida back to his feet, delivers two consecutive northern lights suplexes before hanging on to deliver a ferocious brainbuster! Kushida kicks out at 2 before successfully avoiding a springboard 450. Kushida follows the reversal up with a dragon suplex before heading to the top rope to deliver a moonsault- Ricochet kicks out at 2! Kushida locks in the Hoverboard Lock but somehow Ricochet manages to summon what little remaining strength he has left to power out- Ricochet lifts Kushida up in a fireman's lift before attempting a roundhouse kick, Kushida blocks but Ricochet connects with the meteora. Ricochet, sensing his opportunity, heads to the top rope and connects with a beautiful shooting star press...1...2... the champion kicks out! Ricochet, incredulous, attempts the 630 but there is nobody home! Kushida locks in the Hoverboard lock to make Ricochet tap and successfully defend his IWGP Junior Heavyweight Championship.

Everyone knew the outcome of this match before it started. However, it is testament to both competitors that they generated such suspense through a series of false finishes and submission holds. After the match, Ricochet made his intentions clear to challenge Kushida once again as he reminded fans both men are currently tied at one victory each.

Timothy Thatcher vs Zack Sabre Jr.

Last month, Timothy Thatcher defeated Drew Galloway to become Evolve and DGUSA Champion.

At Evolve 47, Thatcher makes his first title defence against a man who got the better of him the last time they met. The Evolve match of 2014, at Evolve 34, Thatcher was defeated by Zack Sabre Jr in a technical masterpiece. This time, the Evolve and DGUSA titles are being defended by Thatcher.

As the match gets under way, Thatcher and Sabre alternatively attempt various submission hods which their opponent is equal to. Both Sabre and Thatcher begin the match by targeting the arm in anticipation of their respective arm submission holds. Thatcher changes his tact after the initial exchange to begin work on Sabre's legs. Thatcher connects with a dragon screw leg whip before applying the ankle lock. Sabre Jr successfully scrambles to the ropes in time.

Thatcher, unwilling to grant the challenger an opportunity to regain his composure, delivers a snap suplex before attempting to apply a fujiwara arm bar- again, Zack Sabre Jr blocks by locking his arms together. Returning to their feet, Thatcher and Sabre trade forearm blows in the centre- Sabre Jr encourages Thatcher to hit him harder. Thatcher throws a ferocious uppercut but Sabre caught it and proceeds to lock in the cross arm breaker! Sabre wrenches Thatcher's fingers before breaking the hold to deliver several kicks to the champions weakened arm.

Sabre picks up the champ to deliver a northern lights suplex- Sabre holds on to the arm and locks in the cross arm breaker once again! Thatcher manages to roll Sabre up for a pinning combination but Zack Sabre Jr keeps hold of the arm! Thatcher, somehow, manages to escape the arm breaker but Sabre follows up with two penalty kicks- kick out at 2 by Thatcher. Thatcher heads to the corner to break Sabre's relentless assault- Sabre follows but meets a huge uppercut almost knocking him out. Thatcher delivers a bridging dead lift german- kick out at 2 by the challenger. Thatcher delivers a series of stiff knees in the corner before locking in the fujiwara arm bar once again- Sabre reverses into a cross arm breaker of his own before Thatcher reverses into an ankle lock which Sabre reverses again!Thatcher, equal to the task, breaks free of the hold before applying an ankle lock to make Sabre tap out. Timothy Thatcher retains his Evolve and DGUSA titles in a fantastic match

I understand this match may not be to everyone's taste. But if you are a fan of mat based wrestling this match is highly recommended. Two of the best grapplers in the world produced perhaps their best performance of the year so far. Both men head of to BOLA in a week and i for one wouldn't be disappointed to witness Thatcher vs Sabre again.

Chris Hero vs 'Speedball' Mike Bailey

Not many can claim to have had a better 2015 than Chris Hero. Arguably in the form of his career, Hero has featured in fantastic matches against the likes of Zack Sabre Jr, Tommy End, Drew Gulak and Trevor Lee. At Evolve 47, Hero faced a man he has previous history with in PWG. Over the past couple of years, "Speedball" Mike Bailey's reputation as one of the hottest properties has exponentially grown. Arriving in his karate gear, Speedball bows to the announcer and the referee before Hero makes his entrance.

Chris Hero offers a handshake to the considerably smaller man before patronisingly rubbing his head- Speedball, offended by such a gesture, connects with an enziguri before an unsuccessful attempted roll up. Hero, perhaps underestimating the speed of Mike Bailey, rolls to the outside. Tope suicida attempted by Bailey but Hero dodges before delivering a devastating big boot. Ragging Bailey back to his feet, Hero delivers a series of chops Kobashi would be proud of to illuminate the t shirt tanned torso of Mike Bailey. After rolling Bailey back in the ring, Hero grabs Bailey's black belt to taunt Speedball- Bailey returns to his feet to deliver a series of chops in the corner. Hero connects with a huge knee strike to regain control by sending Bailey crashing to the mat- Hero delivers several chops in the corner- Mike Bailey can barely stand before hitting an enziguri that takes Hero by surprise. Hero misses with a rolling elbow and heads to the outside- Bailey connects with a moonsault to the outside followed by a shot gun dropkick. Bailey, now in control, rolls Hero back into the ring before connecting with the corkscrew shooting star press. Bailey, heading up top, misses with the shooting star press and walks into a huge boot by Hero.

Chris Hero attempts a piledriver but Mike Bailey escapes- Hero unloads with several chops but Bailey doesn't flinch! Hero looks for the tombstone, Bailey reverses into a back body drop. Speedball connects with another moonsault before delivering a fierce shining wizard. Hero, wisely, rolls to the outside- Bailey flies but no one is home! Hero rolls Bailey back into the ring before another tombstone attempt- again reversed by Speedball into a jack knife cradle roll up before delivering the shooting star knees to the back of Hero. A flurry of kicks by Bailey only appears to strengthen Hero's resolve- Hero blocks the kicks before connecting with a rolling elbow. Hero pulls the limp Bailey to his feet before connecting with a ripcord elbow to pick up the victory.

For me, when these two met at PWG Threemendous they produced a marginally better match then they did here. That statement reflects how incredible their match was at PWG, not a reflection on their match here. This was an excellent match and, for my money, was the best from Evolve 47.

ECIII vs PJ Black

After attacking Matt Hardy with the TNA World Heavyweight Championship, TNA's last vestige of hope, ECIII, challenged Jeff Jarrett to send out the best that GFW has to offer. For anyone unfamiliar with GFW, for the past month or so Jeff Jarrett and his promotion Global Force Wrestling have been running roughshod over the TNA locker room. Anyway, PJ Black, formerly known as Justin Gabriel, emerges to accept ECIII's challenge in what resembles a match of missed opportunities for WWE; since leaving NXT, the then equable Derrick Bateman has transformed into the sociopathic egotist and now TNA Champion ECIII. Similarly, Justin Gabriel has embraced a new "Darewolf" persona as he begins to fulfil his potential in a more featured role in GFW as the King of the Mountain Champion.

As the bell rings, it doesn't take long for ECIII to flee to the outside. PJ Black, unwilling to allow ECIII to begin the match on his terms, connects with a tope suicida followed by a corkscrew over the top. PJ Black, granted an opportunity at ECIII's TNA World Heavyweight Championship, seeks to finish the match early but a pinning combination is reversed by ECIII before the champion lands a big back body drop. A spinning heel kick delivered by PJ Black ensures that the TNA Champion doesn't control the pace of the match. PJ Black continues on the offence with a springboard splash- ECIII kicks out at 2. Looking for the 450 splash, PJ Black heads up to the top rope- ECIII follows the King of the Mountain Champion to deliver a superplex- kick out at 2.

After applying a rear chin lock, ECIII is momentarily distracted by the crowd before PJ Black connects with a spinning heel kick. PJ Black connects this time with a moonsault but ECIII kicks out. Black attempts a springboard moonsault but the TNA champ is able to regain his senses and retreat to the corner, attempted school boy by ECIII- kick out at 2- ECIII hangs on to deliver a single arm powerbomb. ECIII looks to end the match with the one percenter but PJ Black reverses into a blue thunder bomb. Using the ropes for assistance, ECIII and PJ Black return to their feet before trading forearm strikes in the centre of the ring. Surprisingly, PJ Black emerges on top- attempted springboard 450 but ECIII spikes the ropes consequently knocking Black off balance. ECIII connects with the one percenter to pick up the victory and retain his TNA World Heavyweight Championship.

For well over a year now, ECIII has been the shining light of TNA. Arguably, ECIII has performed as well as anyone since winning the TNA World Heavyweight Championship and that continued here, It was nice to see PJ Black in a featured role on television instead of jobbing out on Superstars. Both ECIII and PJ Black are instances of performers being allowed the creative freedom denied by WWE and being much better for it.