Background: Total Nonstop Action was searching for its next big star; bringing in talent from around the globe to compete in what would become known as “Gut Check” matches. This iteration featured former WWE “Tough Enough” competitor Ivelise Felez (Ivelisse Velez) taking on the niece of former WWF Tag Team champion The Barbarian in Lei’D Tapa.
Impact Wrestling
Orlando, FL
February 28, 2013
Ivelise Felez vs. Lei’D Tapa
Tapa towered over her opponent, but Felez refused to be intimidated even after being caught in a chokehold almost immediately. Felez countered the hold with one of her own after arm dragging Tapa. Lei’D was caught in a guillotine choke, but had a solid base. Felez decided to convert her submission into another. Tapa blocked the rear naked choke, utilizing a big boot that was topped by a clothesline that almost knocked out opposition. The fans were rallying behind Felez, giving her the will to fight through Irish whips into the corner. Slipping through the ropes, Felez not only avoided an avalanche splash in the corner, but also sprung off the ropes with a DDT. Tapa stayed on her feet until Felez whipped her via the head scissors. Fired up was the Tough Enough alumnus, actually putting herself in position for a Samoan drop … and a near fall in favor of Tapa!
Lei’D was furious with the ref, questioning how that wasn’t a three count. But Tapa left herself in reaching distance. Felez swept the unsuspecting Tapa into another guillotine choke. This time Tapa was stuck on her knees. Putting the pressure on her with better positioning, Felez was able to make Tapa tap out.
Winner: Ivelise Felez (4:19)
Is It A Classic: Though they didn’t have a lot of time to work with, they produced an admirable “David vs. Goliath” style match that saw the David in this battle overcome through sheer cunning and tenacity.
