OMEGA 2119 (POW/MMA fed)

[antimony]

Last chance to vote! The poll closes in five hours!

[Trent Lawless]

Oh, wow. Got some catching up to do here!

[antimony]

Wow, am I behind on posting here. Let's remedy that with...

Weigh-In and Press Conference
05.08.2119 from Titan MAC Pavilion


- Opening Notes -
The knockout that you see
Is ultimate reality
Because one man is left standing
One succumbs to gravity

And it goes boom!
You're gonna get hit
Boom!
You're gonna get knocked out...

It was a fine Spring day on Titan (courtesy of the Estorian technology that regulated the weather and provided for an atmosphere, but those issues were easy enough to overlook). The coffee and tea of previous months had been replaced by iced tea and a variety of cold drinks, but the other refreshments remained high-quality and copious in quantity. OMEGA President Niles Kavanagh greeted the reporters who had assembled at the Pavilion as usual, though he followed his greeting with an announcement that was anything but usual.

Kavanagh: "At this time, I'd like to address the severe injuries inflicted on J.J. Smooth and Pendekar at the Drowning show. J.J. suffered a dislocated shoulder, and may be returning to the ring as early as next month. Pendekar, on the other hand, suffered a very severe head injury--a grade three concussion, and then some. He will be out of action indefinitely, and in fact, we've made arrangements for him to be shuttled to Estoria, where their superior medical technology may be able to patch him up more quickly.

"My concern is this--contract negotiations and marketing and a million other responsibilities keep me from effectively running the day-to-day operations of OMEGA. I can't even suspend Kulak Romanov or Barnabas Moreau, because I simply don't have the time or energy to investigate all the complaints and cross-complaints and responses and everything else. To solve all these problems, I have decided to bring in a Commissioner--someone to directly oversee direct talent relations, oversee the management of our titles, and enforce discipline."

Reporter: "Can you give us an idea who this Commissioner will be?"

Kavanagh: "It's too early, at this point, to have that sort of public discussion. Suffice it to say that I have a short list of candidates, and that I've opened up negotiations with all of them. I'll be making a decision in the next few weeks, and the new commissioner will be introduced at our sixth card--the last card here at the MAC, by the way. At least, for the foreseeable future."

Reporter: "Are you looking at people with previous oversight experience, current or past athletes, or..."

Kavanagh: "I'm looking at a number of people, each bringing something different to the table. That's really all I have to say for now. Thank you, and enjoy the rest of the afternoon."


- Weigh-In: Darwin's Legacy -
Dr. Moreau and his furry friends waited until well after Niles Kavanagh had returned to the arena--no doubt he did not want to face OMEGA's sole authority figure (for now, at least) given his (and his men's) heinous actions at OMEGA IV. Once the coast was clear, Moreau walked out boldly--even smugly--with Nero and Hadrian bringing up the rear. Moreau came face to face with Dr. Sememe, who regarded the scrawny scientist with disgust before turning his attention to the weigh-in. He announced Hadrian at 278 pounds and Nero at 275 pounds, then handed a clipboard to Moreau. The creepy scientist signed the form in two places, then stepped up to the podium, commanding his charges to follow wordlessly by clucking his tongue.

Reporter: "Some people say that you have a lot of explaining to do."

Moreau: "I? Whatever for?"

Reporter: "Well, how about Hadrian. He got caught Tripling at the last card."

Moreau: "'Tripling?' Oh! You're referring to the erroneous report that he had methyltetracaine in his system."

Reporter: "Erroneous?"

Moreau: "Yes. I firmly believe that poor Hadrian was the victim of a false positive. I've filed my protest with President Kavanagh, and I anticipate a public apology any day now."

Dr. Sememe slammed the clipboard down on a table and stalked to the arena, clearly seething. Moreau had turned at the sound, and now turned back to the press corps, smiling.

Moreau: "You see? He can't admit he was wrong. I take his departure as an admission of guilt."

Reporter: "What about the injury to Pendekar, then?"

Moreau: "Ah, that? An unfortunate accident."

Reporter: "Accident? Nero hit him in the head, after the bell had been rung!"

Moreau: "Poor Nero was confused, the dear creature. Not to mention in pain for competing with an injured leg."

Reporter: "His pulled quad? Those heal in a matter of days, not--"

Moreau: "It was much more serious than it appeared. As Pendekar could tell you, since he inflicted it deliberately and maliciously."

Reporter: "What a crock!"

Moreau: "I'm sorry you feel that way. Nevertheless, that's the way it was presented to the President, and that's why he will be taking no action against my dear Nero for his unfortunate oversight."

Reporter: "He said--"

Another Reporter: "Forget it--you'll never get a straight answer from him."

Moreau: "You know, I'm not entirely sure I care for your tone, young man."

Reporter: "Fine. Why don't you just tell us what you think about the Tandem Match tomorrow?"

Moreau: "Ugh, it's funny you should ask. My magnificent Nero and Hadrian, fighting a disgusting mutant and a freakish half-cat? Disgusting. They let the most disturbing things happen here."

With that, Moreau ran a hand lovingly up Hadrian's muscled arm, then turned and led his charges back to the arena.


- Weigh-In: Dar Gova -
Very little was known about OMEGA newcomer Dar Gova, other than the fact that he was originally a member of the religious commune on Janus, but had until recently served in the Colonial military. A rumor had been circulating all afternoon that Niles Kavanagh had signed him to an OMEGA contract as a favor to a friend, but the details remained a mystery and the rumor couldn't be verified. Consequently, when the ominous Imperial March began playing and Gova made his first appearance, he had the complete attention of the assembled media.

Gova wore khaki pants that were probably military issue and a black sweatshirt with the sleeves removed, baring his well-muscled arms. He walked in perfect time to the music, nodded crisply to the medical attendant (Dr. Sememe had not returned, even after Moreau left), and was promptly determined to weigh 248 pounds. He accepted the verification form from the assistant, signed it at a length that belied his short name, and finally stepped up to the podium.

Gova: "Good afternoon. I understand there will be some questions?"

Reporter: "Yes--and welcome to OMEGA."

Gova: "Thank you."

Reporter: "I understand that you were in the military?"

Gova: "Yes sir, that's correct."

Reporter: "Can you tell us about that?"

Gova: "I hold the rank of Major in the Boarding Marines."

Reporter: "You're an officer?"

Gova: "Yes, I am."

Reporter: "You say you 'are' an officer. Does that mean you're still in the service?"

Gova: "That's correct."

Reporter: "How is it that you're here in OMEGA, if you still have an active rank?"

Gova: "I'm not at liberty to discuss that."

Reporter: "Why not?"

Gova: "I still have binding orders, even while I'm here."

Reporter: "And your orders forbid you to talk about why you're here."

Gova: "More precisely, I won't discuss the nature of my reassignment. I'm 'here'--in OMEGA, I mean--to show dominance in the hexagon and win the Heavyweight Title, just like anyone else."

Reporter: "Is it true that you lived on Janus?"

Gova: "Yes, sir, it is."

Reporter: "But you abandoned the religion?"

Gova: "No, sir. I'm still a practicing member of the faith."

Reporter: "I thought you Wayfarers--"

Gova: "Excuse me, but I'd rather you didn't use that term."

Reporter: "Wayfarers?"

Gova: "Yes. It's a blasphemous term. We're called the 'Disciples of the True Way,' or 'Disciples' if you must shorten it."

Reporter: "I'm sorry--I didn't know the term was--"

Gova: "Not many people do. It's fine. I've been told my time here is limited, so this has to be the last question."

Reporter: "Do you know Thad Killian?"

Gova: "Vaguely. He and I are in different circles."

Reporter: "Do you mean religious circles?"

Gova: "No, nothing like that. We're cordial with each other, but we aren't exactly 'friends.' There's no ill will, though--nothing like that."

Reporter: "Do Way-- I'm sorry, do Disciples of the True Way have ill will with each other?"

Gova: "Not generally, no."

Reporter: "Must be quite a difference, being in the Marines, then."

Gova: "I'm not at liberty to discuss that."

Reporter: "But--"

Gova: "I'm sorry, my time is up. Have a good afternoon."


- Weigh-In: Indigo and Puma -
From the unknown to the well-known: Indigo and Puma had recently been reported as neck-and-neck contenders for the title of "Most Popular Fighter." The duo emerged to Puma's "Natural Born Killaz," and they seemed to be all business. Puma's eyes were narrowed in typical fury, and Indigo did not exercise his powers to entertain the media as he paced alongside the Kilrathi. They paused to weigh in (Indigo at 272 pounds, Puma at 274 pounds), then stepped up to address the press corps.

Reporter: "How is it that--"

Indigo: "Hold on a minute. I have something to say. Romanov, you're new here, so maybe you don't get it. Maybe you didn't get the memo, maybe no one explained it to you, but we have a code here. We talk, we fight, one guy wins and one guy loses, and then it's over. We don't take cheap shots, we don't attack guys from behind, and we don't try and cripple another fighter!"

Reporter: "You're talking about the attack on J.J. Smooth."

Indigo: "Of course I am! Look, I'm not going to lie and say that J.J. is one of the elite guys here, but he's got a hell of a lot of heart. He deserves just as much respect as me, or Puma, or Shylock--and I think everyone saw that he can hold his own against a cheap thug like Romanov. He made you look bad, and you went too far--WAY too far!"

Reporter: "Have you talked to J.J. or his mother?"

Indigo: "Yeah, I have. He's home from the hospital and recuperating, though he'll be unable to train for a while. Mrs. Swinden hurt her hip and has some bruises, but she's not injured, thank goodness. Maybe J.J. can't take you on next month, Romanov--but I can! And I will!"

Reporter: "Did you give J.J. his twenty dollars?"

Indigo: "That's not funny."

Reporter: "Okay--Puma, how do you feel about what Indigo said?"

Puma: "What about it? Smooth's a good kid. It's too bad he got hurt, but it happens."

Reporter: "Even after the match?"

Puma: "Look, this is professional fighting, not happy playtime. People get hurt, and if Indigo is upset about it, that's his thing. Not mine."

Reporter: "Would you try to injure Paralyze if--"

Puma: "Are you kidding me? I would KILL Paralyze, and I wouldn't lose a bit of sleep about it!"

Indigo: "That's not what we're here for, Puma."

Puma: "Speak for yourself! Look, Indigo--I like you. I respect you. You're a hell of a fighter, and I've got no problem standing up with you and taking on Moreau's freak show. But you don't understand what it's like to be held down--"

Indigo: "Excuse me? Delta Registration Act?"

Puma: "That's NOTHING, man! NOTHING! Wake up some morning to bombs blowing up outside your window. Watch your friends get hauled off by some damn Aethran war machine and have their mouths fused shut. Not 'sewn,' Indigo--they use molten lead."

Indigo: "And that's barbaric, but the answer isn't--"

Puma: "The answer is you fight! You fight until you can't stand, then you fight some more! They can't kill you if you kill them first!"

Indigo: "That's not--"

Puma: "Do you know the Aethran Credo, Indy? 'Get your ass kicked--'"

Indigo: "'Or get your ass killed.' I know. But sinking to their level isn't the answer!"

Puma: "You don't unders-- Look, if you're such a peace freak, what are you even doing here?"

Indigo: "I didn't say I was a peace freak! But you have to have limits! Hand-to-hand combat is a noble calling!"

Puma: "But it's still combat! When you hit the other guy, he hurts!"

Indigo: "It doesn't mean you have to like it!"

Puma: "Oh for... Sivar! If you want to stand here and preach like a woman, fine. *I* have a fight to prepare for, and if you have half a brain, so do you!"

Indigo: "Puma!"

Puma stormed away, muttering and cursing under his breath. Indigo gave an exasperated sigh, offered a half-hearted wave of apology to the press corps, and hurried after him.


- Weigh-In: Quetzal -
Without Pendekar to translate for him, Quetzal didn't even bother stopping to talk with the press. He reported as ordered, weighed in at 217 pounds and signed his verification form, and promptly returned to the arena.


- Weigh-In: Gunnar -
While his music pulsed from the Pavilion's speakers, Gunnar jogged from the arena wearing an ornate ring robe over his fighting gear. He made his way to the scale, loosened his belt, and held out his arms. The medic sighed irritably and removed the robe from Gunnar's shoulders, revealing a physique that had grown marginally pudgy. Gunnar put on his best grin and winked at the press corps while the medic adjusted the scale's counterweights, announcing Gunnar's weight as 245½ pounds. Gunnar let out a whoop of triumph, took a few swings at the air, then opened his arms again. The medic frowned, realizing that Gunnar expected to be dressed, and threw the robe over his outstretched arm. Gunnar shrugged, grinned again, and made his way to the podium.

Reporter: "You've...uhh...bulked up a bit."

Gunnar: "Straight up, cat! 'One-Punch' is--"

Reporter: "'One-Punch?'"

Gunnar: "You heard the man! O.P. is just like the fat man used to say: slim, trim, buff, cut, ripped, chiseled, and straight-up JACKED!"

Reporter: "'O.P.?'"

Gunnar: "Word. O.P.'s just got one question for you cats."

Reporter: "What's that?"

Gunnar: "Who is this cat Darth Grover, and what the HECK is he doing stepping in on O.P.'s title fight?"

Reporter: "You don't have the title fight yet. You have to beat Dar Grover-- Err...I mean Gova, first."

Gunnar: "Exactly! Who is this cat? What's he done? Who's he beat? More important--is he even worthy of carrying O.P.'s boots?"

Reporter: "Well, Mr. Kavanagh must have had a reason for putting him in the fight against you."

Gunnar: "And you know what that reason is? The cat's too new to be scared of O.P.!"

Reporter: "Scared?"

Gunnar: "That's the facts, Jack! You got Sherlock--he's hiding behind his belt and his antique trainer. Pedalcar is hiding out on another planet, pretending to be hurt--"

Reporter: "Pendekar is on Estoria, getting treated for massive head trauma!"

Gunnar: "Hey! Never interrupt One-Punch! He's on some vacation someplace, soaking up the sun, drinking tequila, waking up every morning saying, 'Oh, thank GOD I don't have to fight One-Punch today!'"

Reporter: Sigh. "How do you prepare for a fight against someone you've never seen in the hexagon?"

Gunnar: "One-Punch prepares the same way he always does! He stands back and lets Rockbone and Blastar--"

Reporter: "Blastar?"

Gunnar: "Granite changed his name. Now, y'all have been great, but One-Punch has full night of partying to get to. We'll catch you cats and kittens after I bust Grover's ass!"


- Weigh-In: Kulak Romanov -
The press corps was eager to interview Kulak Romanov after his literal assault on J.J. Smooth and his mother, though the prospect was no more pleasant than trying to interview Gunnar. Romanov's cold, majestic music began playing, and "The Czar" made his way out, arms crossed over his chest, a disdainful smirk etched on his mouth as he considered the media. He weighed in at 309 pounds, made his mark on the necessary form, and stepped up to the podium--mostly, it seemed, because it was required.

Reporter: "Do you have anything to say for yourself?"

Romanov: "No."

Reporter: "Nothing about J.J. Smooth?"

Romanov: "No."

Reporter: "No apologies? No remorse over injuring his shoulder?"

Romanov: "Ask as many times as you want. I have no other answer."

Reporter: "Alright, fine. You have Paralyze tomorrow, and Indigo wants to fight you next month--"

Romanov: "Fine."

Reporter: "So you accept Indigo's challenge?"

Romanov: "Yes."

Reporter: "You could barely handle J.J. Smooth! How do you--"

"The Czar's" face contorted in rage. He gripped the edges of the podium and shoved it forcibly aside, sending it crashing to the ground and breaking it into several pieces. His muscles tightened and he quivered in a moment of repressed anger, then turned on his heel and stormed back to the arena.


- Weigh-In: Taurine (Cruiserweight Champion) -
Rather than the Punks' typical hip-hop beat, a ringing school bell and a driving guitar riff heralded the arrival of the Cruiserweight Champion. Taurine emerged in a designer suit, though he was bare-chested (unless you count the belt) beneath it. Brainstorm walked at his side, attired in a less flashy suit, but with a complementary shirt and tie. They approached the scale, and the medic (and the media) were forced to wait as Taurine stripped off his jacket and dress shoes, unfastened his belt and draped it over Brainstorm's shoulder, and slipped out of his pants. He stepped onto the scale, weighed in at a trim 208 pounds, then took his time in getting dressed again. Brainstorm held onto the belt as the two men prepared to address the media.

Reporter: "Why--"

Brainstorm: "Let's start this interview on the proper foot. Your term for the day is 'rara avis,' a rare or unique person. As in: you plebeians should feel honored to have a 'rara avis'--in the form of your Cruiserweight Champion--in your presence."

Reporter: "Thanks."

Brainstorm: "Your cynicism is noted, but pointless. If you have any questions for the champion, ask them. Otherwise, we have preparations to make."

Reporter: "You're taking on Quetzal again."

Taurine: "Pff. Beat him once. I'll beat him again."

Reporter: "Some people would say you're lucky be taking on Quetzal. Raze beat him and--"

Brainstorm: "Please! Raze didn't even have the intellectual capacity to realize he'd exceeded the limitations of his own weight class! Perhaps he'll have better success as a Heavyweight."

Reporter: "And 'perhaps' he'd be standing here right now if he hadn't walked into a lucky punch."

Taurine: "It doesn't matter. Did I get lucky against Raze? Yes. But I would have beaten him, anyway."

Reporter: "Raze is a tough fighter."

Brainstorm: "Even if that's true--even if your veracity is beyond question--Raze lacks the mental fortitude to be champion. He's obsessive. He's unstable. He's--"

Another Reporter: "He's standing right behind you!"

Brainstorm whirled around in total alarm, dropping the Cruiserweight belt on the ground, while Taurine crouched low, covering his head to protect himself. Of course, there was no one there. The entire press corps dissolved into laughter while Brainstorm's lips disappeared into a thin line of irritation. Taurine uncovered, frowned, and grabbed his belt.

Taurine: "Fine, funny man! We're outta here!"

Taurine and Brainstorm stormed off, trying to ignore the laughter that followed them all the way back to the arena.


- Weigh-In: Paralyze -
Get up, get up, get up
Drop the bombshell
Get up, get up
This is out of control...

The dulcet sounds of Powerman 5000 brought Paralyze out of the arena, clad in his ring gear, and carrying a traditional Aethran war harness. He set it aside while he weighed in (at 347½ pounds), then stepped off the scale and hoisted the leather and spikes over his head. He shrugged, then rotated his shoulders until the harness fell into place before stepping up to where the podium used to be.

Paralyze: "It wasn't me, this time."

Reporter: "Ha ha! No, your opponent for tomorrow night had a temper tantrum."

Paralyze: "Good. I want him angry. I want him mad as hell. I want him ready for the fight of his life, because tomorrow night, only one of us is walking out of that hexagon."

Reporter: "Are you planning on getting revenge for J.J. Smooth?"

Paralyze: "Do you know the first thing about an Aethran? He could've broken Pork Rind's back, and I wouldn't care!"

Reporter: "Then why are you so hot to fight him?"

Paralyze: "He said he could beat me. I plan to show him otherwise."

Reporter: "How do you know? Puma--"

Paralyze: "..."

Reporter: "Right, okay--never mind. Romanov's a three-time Sambo champion. Are you prepared for that?"

Paralyze: "I don't know what the hell Sambo is, but if it involves busting ass, I'd say I've got him covered."

Reporter: "I want to talk about Romulus."

Paralyze: "Who?"

Reporter: "Romulus--you fought him last month."

Paralyze: "Oh, him? What about him?"

Reporter: "You seemed to show him some respect after your fight. Is this the start of a new alliance?"

Paralyze: "Seriously--is there a book or something about us that you can read? It's not an alliance. I'm not gonna start taking the little erling out for dinner."

Reporter: "Erling?"

Paralyze: "Forget it. He was outmanned, outgunned, outclassed--and he didn't back down."

Reporter: "And you respect that?"

Paralyze: "Terrans don't deserve my respect. I acknowledged it. I'd fight him again, and I'm break him in half--and I'll bet he'd die better than most of you would."

Reporter: "Now you sound like Puma."

Paralyze: "I don't believe you just said that. I've killed people for saying less insulting things!"

Reporter: "I--"

Paralyze: "Shut up! Listen to me, you useless pieces of crap! You're going to learn respect for Aethra, respect for me, if you ever want to ask me your stupid questions again! If not, I'm done with you! You want something to write about? Write this--Romanov's dead. His body just doesn't know it yet!"


- Final Card -
* Tandem Match *
Puma "the Alpha Male" & Indigo vs. Darwin's Legacy (2:1 underdogs)

* Heavyweight Contender's Match *
Gunnar vs. Dar Gova (5:4 underdog)

* Grudge Match *
Kulak "the Czar" Romanov vs. Paralyze (2:1 underdog)

* Cruiserweight Title Match *
Taurine (Champion) vs. Quetzal (9:4 underdog)

[aquinas]

I have this feeling that Gunnar and Dar Gova are going to have the match of the night. Maybe I'm biased, since Gunnar has been one of the most interesting, underrated guys in POW for me.

I find it interesting how well Taurine does in MMA. I sort of dismissed him and Romulus at first, figuring they just naturally seemed wrestling-focused. I need to get these guys in the mix more.

[antimony]

Taurine is really hard to predict--he either hangs in there really well and surprises me, or he gets absolutely creamed. I never would have predicted him to beat Raze and advance in the Cruiser Tournament, but I guess that's why we play out the matches. I've found that using the Brainstorm trainer card REALLY helps him a lot--it lets him double-up on an opponent's weakness, or overcome a glaring hole in his own offense.

As for Romulus...his record is poor, but that's more a function of the way his partner has been using him as a human shield. Wonder how much longer that will go on...

[antimony]

OMEGA V: Violence Fetish
05.09.2119 from Titan Memorial Athletic Complex


- Opening Ceremony -
Step right up and be a part of the action
Get your game face on
Because it's time to play
You're pushing and fighting your way
You're ripping it up...

The crowd--over 9,000 strong--was on fire as Disturbed welcomed them to the fifth OMEGA spectacular: the second to last at the oversized MAC on Titan. A little alcohol, a lot of energy, and the promise of four hard-hitting fights made it hard to quiet the crowd for the traditional moment of silence. Once they had settled down to pay their respects to those lost in the War and the Great Disaster, "Natural Born Killaz" erupted from the speakers, ushering the first combatants in OMEGA's second Tandem Match to the hexagon.


- TANDEM MATCH -
Hadrian and Nero vs. Puma “the Alpha Male” and Indigo
Indigo defeated Nero with a knockout at 7:59
Hadrian defeated Indigo with a knockout at 10:17
Puma “the Alpha Male” defeated Hadrian with a referee stoppage at 1:12
Puma “the Alpha Male” defeated Nero with a knee bar submission at 3:29
Match Rating: 0.00
Match Notes: Puma and Indigo made their way to the hexagon as a unit--but that was the only sign of unity between the two partners. Puma walked several steps ahead of Indigo, his slitted eyes fixed on the field of battle. Indigo lingered behind, greeting the fans and signing an autograph or two, though he was ready for battle by the time the music died and Dr. Moreau's men made their appearance. The crowd booed them mercilessly, and several fans through garbage at them (Hadrian ignored it, but it intrigued Nero, who tried swatting the bits of trash out of the air as they came near him). The cameras took the opportunity to sweep the crowd, and a number of fans had brought signs: "Moreau's a Freak," "Ban Nero," and other, less family-friendly messages. Moreau and his charges ignored them as well, with Nero slipping in through the ropes while Hadrian and Moreau took up a position in his corner. Puma dropped to the floor himself, and the action was underway.

As soon as the bell rang, Indigo launched an unexpected high kick that knocked Nero down. Indigo followed, gained the mount, and began laying into the ape-man with punches, but Nero was able to reverse positions and score with some fists of his own. The duo brawled their way to their feet and separated, and Indigo landed another high kick. Nero scampered to the ropes immediately, preventing Indigo from following up. The two men locked up with a clinch and jockeyed for position for a long, boring exchange that had the crowd restless. The only thing that saved the match was a quick left from Indigo, which knocked Nero down for the count.

Dr. Moreau helped Nero leave the hexagon as Hadrian took his place, and immediately fell prey to one of the high kicks that had caused his partner so many problems. Indigo followed him to the ground and tried to secure an arm lock, which Hadrian rolled through and reversed into a neck crank...which Indigo twisted out of, reversing it into another arm lock. Hadrian rolled to his knees to relieve the pressure, and Indigo released the hold for a more traditional clinch. Once again, neither man was able to secure an advantage--and once again, the crowd grew restless with the lack of action. Each fighter managed a takedown or two, only to have his opponent reach the ropes and escape. Indigo finally took a risk by shooting in for an aggressive takedown, but Hadrian blocked it and took Indigo down himself. Hadrian gained the mount and began laying into Indigo with punches, eventually earning the knockout.

Puma wasted no time, charging into the hexagon before Indigo had even rolled out and laying Hadrian out with a stiff haymaker. Hadrian went down hard and Puma dropped to his knees, throwing punch after punch until the referee stepped in and waved him off, stopping the action.

Nero slipped through the ropes and attacked Puma from behind, driving a kick into his knee. Puma went down hard, and Nero tried to secure an arm lock, but the Kilrathi squirmed like a fish and he couldn't get it locked in. Within moments, Puma had not only maneuvered out of the arm lock, he had worked his way into position for a knee bar. Before Nero knew what was happening, it was locked in, and he had to submit.

The referee looked over at Hadrian, but Dr. Sememe had come out to check on a cut above his eye. The doctor shook his head, and despite the overwhelming protests of Dr. Moreau, the referee called the match off, awarding it to Puma and Indigo to the delight (and great relief) of the crowd.

- Heavyweight Contender's Match -
Dar Gova vs. Gunnar
Gunnar defeated Dar Gova with a knockout at 15:53
Match Rating: 4.00
Match Notes: The fans didn't know very much about Dar Gova, but they absolutely hated Gunnar, so when the Imperial March began playing, they took to their feet and cheered for Gova's arrival, which could only be described as subdued. Their cheers turned to boos when Gunnar's music started up, and "One Punch" came shuffling out from the back in a sequined, hooded robe. He shadow boxed his way down the aisle, dancing like Ali despite the jeers of the crowd. The two men came face to face for instructions, and Gova offered a handshake which Gunnar was about to return, only to pull his hand back at the last minute. The referee shook his head and called for the bell.

Gunnar came out swinging, and swinging hard. A spinning back fist caught Gova by surprise and a kick to the knee sent him crashing to the canvas, but Gunnar backed off and took a few swings in the air, letting Gova climb to his feet. "One Punch" moved in for the kill, but Gova ducked a roundhouse and unloaded a HUGE right to Gunnar's jaw, knocking him flat on his back. Gova tried to move in, but Gunnar scooted backwards until he had reached the ropes.

Now that each man had a handle on his opponent's strengths, the fight was officially "on." They stepped into the center of the hexagon and began trading heavy punches. Neither man gave an inch, and neither went down, though they absorbed dozens of blows that would have felled a normal man. The drama of this fight, compared to the slow dance of the Tandem Match, set the crowd on fire--they burst into cheers every time a punch landed and a competitor's head snapped back.

Bit by bit, both men's punches lost some of their crispness. Gunnar's nose was bloodied and his lower lip was split and swollen, while Gova bled from a cut on his chin and his right eye was inexorably swelling shut. Both struggled to keep their hands up, yet they refused to go for a clinch and catch their breath. Eventually, Gunnar managed to throw a devastating left that Gova's swollen eye didn't see coming. Gova staggered back, and Gunnar followed up with another left, then a stiff kick. Each blow rocked Gova back a step, until a spinning back fist caught him flush on the jaw, sending him crashing to the mat for the last time.

- GRUDGE MATCH -
Kulak "the Czar" Romanov vs. Paralyze
Paralyze defeated Kulak "the Czar" Romanov with a TKO at 1:55
Match Rating: 0.00
Match Notes: Get up, get up, get up
Drop the bombshell
Get up, get up
This is out of control...

It takes a special sort of man to inspire the fans to cheer for an Aethran...but Kulak Romanov was just such a man. He was already in the hexagon when "Bombshell" blasted from the arena sound system and Paralyze made his way down the aisle. The cheers of the fans seemed to have no real effect on the savage Gladiator--if anything, he sneered at their praise. The Super Heavyweights came to the center of the hexagon for the referee's instructions, but did not retreat to their own corners. They remained nose to nose as the referee called for the bell, and even for a moment or two afterwards, as if daring one another to take the first swing.

Eventually, Romanov took that swing--and he made it count. He launched a series of fists towards the Aethran's tattooed face, and each of them connected, forcing him back. Paralyze's knees grew wobbly, and he tied Romanov up to catch his breath.

As they vied for supremacy in the clinch, Paralyze was able to recover and launch a devastating knee to Romanov's chin. "The Czar" went down hard, and Paralyze went down with him, twisting his head to the breaking point with a neck crank. The referee saw that Romanov wasn't defending himself--in fact, he was out cold from the knee to the chin--and called for the bell immediately.

Taurine vs. Quetzal
for the OMEGA Cruiserweight Championship
Taurine defeated Quetzal with a knockout at 2:48
Match Rating: 1.00
Match Notes: Turn it up!

With Quetzal already in the ring (and with Raze off the card), Taurine had no problem coming out to his own music, and taking his time making his way to the hexagon. Brainstorm came out at his side, helped him out of his Punkz ring jacket, and took the Cruiserweight title belt from around his waist while the official delivered pre-match instructions. The fighters went to their respective corners, and the official called for the bell.

Taurine came out swinging, and it was obvious that he had been working on his striking game with Brainstorm. He threw a couple heavy shots at Quetzal, who managed to block most of them, and even caught a kick, using Taurine's own leg to leverage him to the ground. Quetzal tried to secure a mount, but Taurine wriggled his way to the ropes and the referee forced the break.

Once both men were on their feet, Quetzal ducked inside the champ's reach and tied him up. Quetzal dominated in the clinch until Taurine was able to break an arm free and land a solid uppercut. Quetzal was wobbled, and Taurine snapped off a quick right to finish Quetzal off and retain his title.

[Darth Turkish]

You really get the intrigue going here man.

You have also made me like Paralyze more than I did before.

[antimony]

I think Paralyze is my favorite MMA conversion character (with Kulak and Dar Gova highly ranked, too)--I just wish he was a bit more evenly-matched with Puma. If only he had an MMA buddy to come in and help him in a couple years. Hmm...

Aquinas was right--Gova-Gunnar did, indeed, steal the show. Gunnar wouldn't be nearly as fun to write as a half-clueless loudmouth if he didn't back it up with a big win from time to time.

[Darth Turkish]

Paralyze's over the top I nvere lose thing is great. It will be more impressive as he competes further and gains some skills, which may happen in a few years.....

[antimony]

Weigh-In and Press Conference
06.05.2119 from Titan MAC Pavilion


- Opening Notes -
The knockout that you see
Is ultimate reality
Because one man is left standing
One succumbs to gravity

And it goes boom!
You're gonna get hit
Boom!
You're gonna get knocked out...

Niles Kavanagh greeted the press corps with the disappointing news that he would not be introducing the new OMEGA Commissioner until the night of the matches. "He's going to be our main public face--the top guy, as far as the fans are concerned. The fans should be the first to meet him." Kavanagh did say that the Commissioner was not his first choice; nevertheless, he had complete confidence in the man, and looked forward to working with him.

Kavanagh also confirmed that Kulak Romanov's broken jaw would be keeping him out of action--though the media had already made that assumption, since Romanov was kept off the weigh-in schedule. The President had put Hadrian in against Indigo, with the winner receiving a Heavyweight Title match in the near future. When a reporter commented that next month's card would be on the light side with no contender's match, Kavanagh simply said, "The Commissioner will address that tomorrow night."


- Weigh-In: J.J. Smooth -
You're going down, down, down... Call me Smooth...

J.J. Smooth made his way out with his mother on one arm, and the other in a sling. He avoided weighing in and stepped right up to the podium, his mother at his side.

Reporter: "How's the arm, J.J.?"

Smooth: "Well, it's not so good, really. Doc says it's a little too soon to go in there and fight."

Swinden: "It's a day-to-day injury at this point. Poor Jonah was hoping he'd be able to fight, but it's just too soon. Frankly, I'm relieved. That Romulus, he's a tricky little thing, isn't he? I don't want him hurting my baby boy!"

Smooth: "Aw, mom..."

Reporter: "So, what's going to happen at the fights tomorrow?"

Smooth: "Well, while I was home on Ganymede, I was talking to my cousin Gordo. Seems he thinks he wants to try his hand at this whole fighting thing."

Swinden: "I thought I told you I don't like you talking to Gordon. He's a troublemaker--all those bar fights!"

Smooth: "Aw, mom. He's a good guy."

Reporter: "Has Mr. Kavanagh agreed to let him fight?"

Smooth: "He... Well, why don't you ask him?"

On that cue, a heavy-set fellow in cut-off denim shorts, a sleeveless t-shirt, and a beat-up, retro John Deere cap ambled out. He had only taken a few steps before his music started up--the classic (-ish) redneck fighting anthem since the early twenty-first century "Biscuits and Gravy." The bearded man stripped off his shirt and tossed his cap aside, and weighed in at 239 pounds. He grabbed his hat, but not his shirt (to the dismay of the reporters) and joined J.J. and Mrs. Swinden at the podium.

Gordo: "Howdy, J.J., Aunt Olivia. Hi, folks."

Reporter: "Now, is your name GorDON or GorDO?"

Gordo: "My name's Gordon, but everyone calls me Gordo."

Reporter: "And you'll be fighting tomorrow night?"

Gordo: "Yup. President Kavanagh said tomorrow would be my try-out. If I do okay, might be I'll get a full-time contract."

Reporter: "Do you have any martial arts training? Any competitive experience?"

Gordo: "Well, I'll tell ya. You ever been in a bar brawl?"

Reporter: "No."

Gordo: "Well, if you were, you'd know the answer. Me? I been in plenty--even won a lot of 'em. I might now know too much 'bout them Desoto hibachis or ouchey tomatoes, but I been hit plenty, and I hit plenty hard."

Reporter: "So, what do you think of your chances tomorrow against Romulus?"

Gordo: "Well, I'll tell ya. Might be I'll win, and might be I'll lose. But either way, he's gonna be hurtin'."


- Weigh-In: Puma -
Once Gordo and the Swindens had cleared the area, the stage was set for Puma's arrival. He didn't disappoint--racing out of the arena at full speed while "Natural Born Killaz" set the speakers to vibrating. He stopped a few steps before the Pavilion to let out a feral screech, then made his way to the scale. He weighed in at 274 pounds (too bad he wasn't in contention for a title shot this time), then stepped up to address the media.

Reporter: "You've got Dar Gova tomorrow night."

Puma: "Yeah, I do. Poor guy."

Reporter: "He looked pretty tough against Gunnar."

Puma: "Still lost, though."

Reporter: "I guess. What we really want to talk about is you and Indigo."

Puma: "What about him?"

Reporter: "It seemed like there was some hostility between the two of you."

Puma: "Nah. Indy's fine. He's just an idealist. He's never had to face Aethran aggression on a daily basis."

Reporter: "He seemed to think you were a little too violent."

Puma: "Violent times call for violent measures."

Reporter: "But you're not at war anymore."

Puma: "Don't kid yourself. As long as there's an Aethran drawing blood, there's gonna be war between them and us. And if you're smart, you won't get too comfortable here, either."

Reporter: "Here? What would the Aethrans want with us?"

Puma: "They don't have to get anything out of it. They're like your locusts. They attack and attack and consume everything, just because they can."

Reporter: "Any word on when you and Paralyze will square off again?"

Puma: "I plan to ask our new Commissioner about that, and if I don't get an answer I like, it's gonna happen in the parking lot instead of the hexagon."

Reporter: "That's intense."

Puma: "You think that's intense? Wait until you see the fight."


- Weigh-In: Hadrian -
Hadrian was the next fighter scheduled for a weigh-in, but his start time came and went with no sign of either him or his manager. Five minutes passed before one of OMEGA's unpaid interns came out--meekly--and handed a folded paper to Dr. Sememe. The doctor examined the document and cursed under his breath.

Sememe: "I've just been informed that Dr. Moreau has elected to have Hadrian weighed independently. This verifies that he weighs two hundred eighty pounds. Since that puts him half a pound over the Heavyweight limit, he will NOT be contending for a title match tomorrow. Dr. Moreau has also provided me with a written statement to read to you all--but he can kiss my butt. That's all."


- Weigh-In: Romulus -
Turn it up!

The Punks' hip hop music erupted from the speakers, and Romulus came jogging out in his typical "Punkz" gear. He was about halfway to the Pavilion when his music suddenly stopped...and was replaced by the quick, straining guitars of Brainstorm's theme. Romulus slumped, and turned just in time to see Taurine and Brainstorm make an appearance. Brainstorm wore his typical, conservative suit and tie, while Taurine wore dark sunglasses and a sporty, slate blue jacket over matching slacks...and nothing else but his title belt. Brainstorm and Taurine marched to the podium while Romulus stopped at the scales.

Taurine: "I know, I know--you're overwhelmed to be in the presence of the Cruiserweight Champion. No need to thank me. I just wanted to spice up what would have been a mundane interview, and give all your empty lives a little meaning."

Reporter: "Actually, a lot of us were hoping to talk to Romulus about--"

Brainstorm: "Let me cut you off right there. Your word for today, ladies and gentlemen, is diffident, meaning bashful or unassertive. Your Cruiserweight Champion, ladies and gentlemen, has deigned to grace you with his presence, saving you from the banality of an interview with the diffident Romulus."

Reporter: "It seems to us that he's not bashful. Taurine just never lets him get a word out."

Taurine: "That's complete and utter nonsense! I never--look, here he is! Rom, did you hear that? Tell these people they have no idea what they're talking about!"

Romulus: "Well--"

Taurine: "That's what I thought! C'mon, people. If there was a problem between me and my best friend, don't you think I'd be the first to know it?"

Reporter: "Whatever. Romulus, do you feel like you're at a disadvantage going in against the newcomer Gordo after preparing for J.J. Smooth?"

Romulus: "I--"

Brainstorm: "What Romulus is trying to say here is that he's got just as good a chance against Gordo as he did against J.J. Smooth. Maybe he'll last six minutes instead of eight, but the important thing is, Romulus will be out there giving what the kids call 'the old college try.'"

Reporter: "We didn't hear Romulus' weight announcement. He looks to be in good shape, though."

Romulus: "The--"

Taurine: "Lemme see that form, Sememe! It says here that Rom's looking good at a slender buck eighty-four. A little on the small side, especially standing next to the Champ, but at least he's not giving up eight, nine hundred pounds like he was against Smooth."

Brainstorm: "Ha ha! Your talent for hyperbole is on point as always, 'T!' Come on, let's get out of here and start preparing to defeat whoever Kavanagh and this new Commissioner throws at you next!"

Romulus: "But--"

Taurine: "Good idea, boss. C'mon, Rom. If you're good, I'll buy you an ice cream."

The champ and his trainer hooked Romulus' arms, turned him away from the microphone, and steered him back to the arena.


- Weigh-In: Indigo -
Indigo slipped out before Brainstorm and The Punks had made their way into the arena, and he could only shake his head as he passed them. He strode into the Pavilion and stepped onto the scale, and Dr. Sememe announced his weight at 273 pounds--well below the limit for Heavyweights. As the doctor handed Indigo his verification form, they exchanged a few whispered words. Indigo cracked a smile, and Dr. Sememe shook his hand before the fan favorite stepped up to the podium.

Reporter: "What was that about?"

Indigo: "Nothing--an inside joke."

Reporter: "It wouldn't have something to do with Doctor Sememe's feud with Doctor Moreau, would it? Especially with you fighting Hadrian?"

Indigo: "If it did, wouldn't it be indiscreet to tell you?"

Reporter: "Come on--you can trust us!"

Indigo: "Ha ha! Trust a bunch of reporters? Perish the thought!"

Reporter: "Ha ha ha! Alright, alright. Are you concerned about fighting Hadrian, the man who defeated you in your Tandem Match at OMEGA V?"

Indigo: "I'm always concerned when I step into a fight, and yes, Hadrian did beat me."

Reporter: "After you had thrown down with Nero for a good long while."

Indigo: "That's nice of you to say, but a loss is a loss. He got the better of me with some serious fists, and I'm going to have to watch out for that tomorrow night."

Reporter: "With Hadrian failing to make weight, you're guaranteed a title match against either Shylock or Gunnar. That has to feel good."

Indigo: "I'd rather earn it with a win then fall into it like I did against Puma, but yes, it does feel good. Hopefully I'll be able to beat Hadrian and go into the title match with some good momentum."

Reporter: "Would you rather face Shylock or Gunnar, if it was up to you?"

Indigo: "Gunnar's a heck of an athlete, and I think he's got a good future in OMEGA. But I have to admit, I'd like another piece of Shylock."

Reporter: "You two tore the house down the first time you fought."

Indigo: "We sure did, and unfortunately, he came away with a win. I'd like one more shot at him to see if I can't show him what that feels like. That's the end of my time, guys. Thank you very much!"


- Weigh-In: Shylock (Heavyweight Champion) -
Shylock's arrival was an exercise in drama--or should I say melodrama. He paused just inside the arena door as his music began, and only emerged when the lyrics started. He walked at a leisurely place from the MAC to the Pavilion with Splatter trailing in his wake. He paused before stepping onto the scale and unstrapped his belt from around his waist, thrusting it into the air majestically as the singer reached "the final countdown." Having made his entrance, Shylock surrendered his belt and flashy robe to Splatter and stepped onto the scale. His weight was announced as 249 pounds, and he snatched his belt away from Splatter, leaving his trainer to handle the paperwork while the champ addressed the media.

Shylock: "Another press conference, and once again, the greatest fighter in the history of this or any other organization is scheduled for the middle of the day, not the end. It's a good thing Kavanagh is hiring a Commissioner--maybe now I'll get treated with the respect I'm due."

Reporter: "Do you know who the new Commissioner is?"

Shylock. Sigh. "Only a reporter would be stupid enough to ask about some washed-up has-been that Kavanagh salvaged from some old folks home somewhere when he's face to face with the Heavyweight Champion. Next!"

Another Reporter: "You're a seven-two favorite against Gunnar tomorrow night."

Shylock: "Gunnar? Oh, God, is that who I'm fighting?"

Reporter: "Haven't you been training for him?"

Shylock: "Why the hell would I mess with success by lowering myself to someone else's level? I train, I win. End of story."

Reporter: "But Gunnar's weakness are different from, say, Indigo's or Puma's."

Shylock: "See, if you'd ever actually thrown a punch, you'd understand what I'm saying. It doesn't matter who I fight, does it? Gunnar, Puma, Paralyze, Romanov, the Michelin Tire Man--"

Reporter: "The who?"

Shylock: "Forget it. The point is, they can't beat me. I'm too skilled, too strong, and just too damn good."

Reporter: "Do you have any message for Gunnar?"

Shylock: "Yeah. Tell him he's gonna get his ass kicked. I'm finished here."


- Weigh-In: Dar Gova -
The Imperial March brought Dar Gova, the military refugee, out to the Pavilion. He marched in step to the music and reached the scale without fanfare, weighing in at 246 pounds. He signed the necessary forms, nodded his thanks to Dr. Sememe, and stepped up to face the press.

Reporter: "Some of us tried to find out about your military service, and why you're not there now."

Gova: "Oh?"

Reporter: "That's right. Guess what we found."

Gova: "Very little, I imagine."

Reporter: "Hardly anything at all beyond your name and rank."

Gova: "I told you."

Reporter: "And you still have nothing to say about what happened to bring you here?"

Gova: "No sir, I don't."

Reporter: "Okay then. What can you tell us about your fight tomorrow night?"

Gova: "I'll be taking on Puma. I have a lot of respect for the Kilrathi--they're good soldiers, and skilled fighters. It should be a very good match-up."

Reporter: "Do you think you have a chance against him?"

Gova: "I think I always have a chance against any opponent, or I wouldn't be here."

Reporter: "You're a slight underdog, according to the oddsmakers."

Gova: "That's fine."

Reporter: "It doesn't bother you?"

Gova: "Why would it? I don't gamble, and they've only seen me fight once. And I lost."

Reporter: "You took the loss well."

Gova: "You fight, you lose, you come back and fight the next day."

Reporter: "Does the True Way teach that?"

Gova: "That's part of it. It's also from being in the military--I don't want to lose my fights, but it's not as if I'm in a battle for my life against a hostile enemy. It's a matter of perspective."

Reporter: "Does your sense of perspective help you deal with whatever brought you here?"

Gova: "I'm sorry?"

Reporter: "You know, instead of serving in the military."

Gova: "I'm not at liberty to discuss that."

Reporter: "Can you at least tell us if being here is some sort of disciplinary action?"

Gova: "I'm not at liberty to discuss that."

Reporter: "Is there anyone we can contact to get more information? Your superior officer?"

Gova: "Not that I can disclose. I'm sorry, that's the end of my time. Enjoy the fights tomorrow night."


- Weigh-In: Raze -
Raze's creepy theme music played...and played...and played for several minutes with no sign of the fighter, himself. Both the medical staff and the press corps had come to expect this of the disturbed young man, so no one was surprised by the delay--not by the sudden emergence of a figure in a trench coat, dark glasses, and a fedora hat, who came creeping out of the arena. His gaze darted this way and that, never settling on anything or anyone for very long, and he took a zigzagging, unpredictable path to the Pavilion. Once he arrived at the Pavilion, he engaged in a lengthy debate with Dr. Sememe. The doctor gestured repeatedly to the coat and hat, and the "mysterious figure" shook his head firmly. The doctor was finally forced to threaten scratching him from the fight, and Raze slumped in defeat, then surrendered his coat, hat, and sunglasses to the medical assistant. He weighed in at 214 pounds, made an exaggerated "X" in lieu of signing the necessary paperwork, and reluctantly stepped up to the podium.

Reporter: "Raze, you did it!"

Raze: "No I didn't!"

Reporter: "No--this is good! You made weight this time!"

Raze: "It was someone else!"

Reporter: "No, no--Raze, it means if you beat Quetzal, you get Taurine!"

Raze: "Taurine! Where?"

Reporter: "He's not here, Raze."

Raze: "Then why do you keep bringing him up? Are you on his side? Huh? Is that it? Are you trying to--"

Reporter: "Focus, Raze!"

Raze: "I'm focused!"

Reporter: "You fight Quetzal tomorrow."

Raze: "Okay..."

Reporter: "You beat him..."

Raze: "Okay..."

Reporter: "Then you challenge Taurine for the Cruiserweight Title."

Raze: "When?"

Reporter: "Next month, Raze."

Raze: "So... Wait. I beat Quetzal, then Taurine has to fight me?"

Reporter: "Exactly."

Raze: "Oh, man. Oh man oh man."

Reporter: "What is it?"

Raze: "Nothing. I just feel bad for Quetzal. I gotta go!"

Before anyone could get another question off, Raze burst into full speed, racing to the parking area, flinging himself into his waiting vehicle, and taking off at high speed.


- Weigh-In: Quetzal -
No Pendekar meant, once again, no statement from Quetzal. He came out, weighed in at 217½ pounds, signed his verification form, and returned to the back before his music had even stopped playing.


- Weigh-In: Gunnar -
Gunnar came jogging out in his satin ring jacket as soon as his music hit, shuffling his feet and demonstrating his punching form all the way. He danced up to Dr. Sememe's assistant and spread his arms so that she could remove his jacket; she complied, but out of necessity more than anything else. Gunnar stepped onto the scale, Dr. Sememe adjusted the weights, and he was about to announce the weight...but Gunnar stopped him. The fighter fished a slip of paper out of his rear pocket and handed it to the doctor, who rolled his eyes in response. Gunnar egged him on, and Sememe finally read--without much feeling...

Sememe: "Oh, for... Gunnar weighs in at a 'slim, trim, buff, cut, ripped, chiseled, and jacked' two hundred and twenty-nine pounds."

Gunnar let out a whoop of victory and jogged towards the podium, turned around and jogged back to the doctor to sign his forgotten paperwork, then made a second turn and trotted up to greet the press.

Gunnar: "Oh baby, oh baby, oh baby... O.P. is straight-up JACKED and on fire! When you talk to O.P. next month, he'll be the OMEGA Heavyweight Champion!"

Reporter: "Shylock seems to have some issue with that."

Gunnar: "Psh. You think O.P. cares about that chump? Sherlock don't know, baby! He don't know!"

Reporter: "What don't--err... What doesn't he know?"

Gunnar: "He don't know NOTHING! He don't know O.P., don't know where O.P. came from--and he won't know what hit him when O.P. takes his sorry ass down, down, down, down, dee-oh-doubleyou-en, DOWN!"

Reporter: "It sounds like you're guaranteeing victory."

Gunnar: "Baby, when One-Punch says a thing's gonna happen, it's gonna happen, no JOKE!"

Reporter: "You know, I think you get weirder every month."

Gunnar: "Word!"


- Final Card -
Romulus vs. Gordo (even money)

Puma "the Alpha Male" vs. Dar Gova (5:4 underdog)

* Cruiserweight Contender's Match *
Raze vs. Quetzal (5:1 underdog)

Indigo vs. Hadrian (2:1 underdog)

* Heavyweight Championship Match *
Shylock (c) vs. Gunnar (7:2 underdog)