I got fired, what should I do for a reference?

HI All

I worked at my last job for 3 years. However, I got fired. I asked for a raise and brought up the word ######## with my boss. Most of the conversation we had was about my coworker who she was dating at the time. He was the worst coworker I ever had. The guy forgot to check the hose on a new vehicle, it fell off and melted the engine. Well. In order to protect him she fired me. If I told u guys the complete story
you'd all be ROFL.
I applied for unemployment and got denied. But, after I filed an appeal and talked to a judge directly I was approved for unemployment.
The judge thought my story was hilarious. However, I still have a 3 year gap in my unemployment. When you're applying for cdl jobs its kinda hard to cover up. I know im not the first truck driver to get fired. I really need a reference and definitely don't want to use this woman.
How do you guys think I should go about handling this situation? Its spring time and theres tons of cement trucking companys hiring. I filled out a couple applications today. However, they all wanted me to fill out a credit application with my job app. Even, if I use a friends company as a reference, they'll see Ive never received a paycheck from this company. Any help appreciated...

 

Don't they check anyway, though? When u check no that must be a big red flag for them.