UGP 37: DONOVAN vs HOLLOWAY
[The arena is littered with a fervent crowd that grows more impatient by the second for impending chaos. Red spotlights scan all through the building while laser lights and a brilliant white strobe light flutters on the main entrance stage.]
[The air, which hours ago was cool and fresh, now reeks with the toxic aroma of alcohol and that sweet leaf. The pyrotechnic explosives drown out the sounds of cheers from the crowd with each detonation, havoc has descended upon these grounds.]
[The stage of a bloody war is set. The conquerors envision nothing but execution towards success, while the meek is flooded with doubt. Down in the trenches, we are greeted with Bodie Sullivan and Jason Jackson, ready for their cue.]
BODIE SULLIVAN: “Ladies and gentlemen, we are live exclusively on the Battleground Network here at the Alamodome in San Antonio, Texas and the octagon is officially open for business for UGP 37! Hello everybody I’m Bodie Sullivan and standing next to me is my main man, the Throwin’ Samoan… the Flyin’ Hawaiian, Jason Jackson! JJ, as always, it’s an honor to be in the presence of greatness to call these fights my friend.”
JASON JACKSON: “Don’t sell yourself short there, uce. No pun intended. It’s always a pleasure to be on the sticks with you.”
BODIE SULLIVAN: “I appreciate that. Listen, tonight history is up for grabs as we have two championship fights headlining the night. But before we get to them, let’s take it from the top with our opening fights. To kick things off, we have back-to-back Interim Heavyweight Championship Grand Prix bouts; the first is former Cruiserweight Champion Gauge Lattimore making his Union heavyweight debut against the towering newcomer Von Mathieu, and right after that the former Heavyweight and Cruiserweight Title Challenger Viktor Volkov takes on the Romanian native Cezar Miklos.”
JASON JACKSON: “I’m hyphy about these two fights, Bodie. Not only will we see who moves on into the semifinals, but we’re seeing the future of this division develop. I know what Big Vik brings to the table and for me I think he’s the favorite to take it all, but I’m curious to see how Lattimore adjusts to the added weight all the while taking on literally the biggest competitor we’ve seen in Union. Von Mathieu is gargantuan, like the guy looks like he was created in a lab in some top secret location. I expect to see fireworks right out of the gate.”
BODIE SULLIVAN: “One thing you can always count on when it comes to these heavyweights is that we’re gonna get some highlight reel moments. From there we move into the featured undercard bout which spotlights the former inaugural Bantamweight Champion Lauren Moore and Bantamweight Title Challenger Isabel Azevedo. L-Mo is riding a two-fight win streak whereas Issi is coming off a loss to reigning champ Gianna Howard. There’s a lot of potential moving parts at the top of the 135 pound division, but you kinda get the sense that this could very well be a title eliminator bout.”
JASON JACKSON: “Yeah, you get that feeling, but you can’t guarantee anything in this sport. You’ve got Dallas Meechan clawing his way back up, who’s got a fight scheduled with Tim Vu who’s been at the cusp of title contention, and also Thugga is roaming too. I think Dante Reed sees these fighters and he’s looking to see who impresses him the most. They’re all worthy challengers but it’s like who’s got next?”
BODIE SULLIVAN: “No doubt you could make an argument for any of the top five contenders, but I like how you put it. Go out there and make a statement, make yourself undeniable. And speaking of undeniable, let’s move on to our Co-Main Event matchup where Travis Decker looks to make a fifth consecutive title defense against his former teammate Byron McCall.”
JASON JACKSON: “This fight gives me the chilly willies, Bodie. Former teammates squaring up for the strap. Doesn’t seem like there’s any bad blood between the two, it’s all about competition and legacy. Decker has a chance to set a record for the Middleweight Title for most consecutive title defenses and be tied for second all-time in Union GP history, but on the other hand, Byron McCall has the chance to add to his Hall of Fame legacy with a Union Championship. Both of these guys are killers in the cage and this has the potential to not only be fight of the night, but could very well be a fight of the year contender.”
BODIE SULLIVAN: “When you get two veterans that have a similar striking skill set who aren’t afraid to stand and bang and add the stakes at hand, it’s a dream fight come to life. And then finally for the Main Event of the night, we continue the theme of history in the making as Delaney Donovan puts his Lightweight Championship on the line for a record eighth time against the former MLC On the Rise 1 winner, Caged Glory Imperial and Dragon Champion Ram-Paige Holloway. Two legends go toe-to-toe for a possible twenty-five minutes. Similar to Decker and McCall, Delaney and Paige are cerebral assassins with their offense and I would lay my paycheck down and bet that this is one we will talk about for ages.”
JASON JACKSON: “You said it, Bodie. Two legends battling to be the best 155’er on the planet. Delaney and Paige are MMA Mount Rushmore level fighters. They’ve accomplished so much in this sport and continue to do it at a world-class rate. There’s really not much else to say about it, just let the action speak for itself.”
BODIE SULLIVAN: “Get your popcorn ready folks, we’re in for a wild night! And with that, we are all set to toss it over to the mouthpiece of MMA, Mike Dempsey. It’s Bout Time! Mikey, take it away brother!”
MIKE DEMPSEY: “Ladies and gentlemen, we are live exclusively on the Battleground Network here at the Alamodome in San Antonio, Texas for UGP 37! And now, this opening contest is scheduled for three rounds in the Union Grand Prix Heavyweight Division! Introducing first, fighting out of the blue corner, a Boxer holding a professional mixed martial arts record of nine wins, two losses. He stands 6’10”, and weighing in at 260 pounds. He is from Columbia, South Carolina, fighting out of Metropolitan Kombat Klub, presenting “Slinky” Von Mathieu!
[Von Mathieu looks like he has been waiting for this fight forever as he bounces from side to side on the balls of his feet.]
BODIE SULLIVAN: “Starting things off we have a debuting Von Mathieu, who looks absolutely terrifying. From what we have seen of him, the big man has got some solid hands. He comes from a boxing background, which suits this division to a tee.”
JASON JACKSON: “Yeah we all love a big guy who can stand and bang. Von Mathieu has got all of the potential in the world, but I’m wondering if he’s getting thrown into the fire tonight as he makes his Union debut against a former champion. We’re about to find out what he’s made of.”
MIKE DEMPSEY: “And his opponent, fighting out of the red corner, a Boxer holding a professional mixed martial arts record of nineteen wins, four losses. He stands 6’3”, and weighing in at 245 pounds. He is from Detroit, Michigan, fighting out of Gold Blooded MMA, presenting the former Union Grand Prix Cruiserweight Champion, Gauge “Lights Out” Lattimore!”
[Gauge Lattimore looks calm in his corner as he rolls his neck in alternating circles, keeping all focus on the fight ahead.]
BODIE SULLIVAN: “Gauge Lattimore makes his return to the cage since losing the Cruiserweight Championship to Michael Santos back at UGP 34, and now he’s become a hunter once again, chasing the shot at becoming the Interim Heavyweight Champion.”
JASON JACKSON: “Yeah, I love this dude. I’ve said it before, if I get back in the cage again Gauge is someone I wouldn’t mind facing. He’s legit, Bodie. He’s beaten some of the best fighters in the world and now he’s got a chip on his shoulder, which I think makes him a very dangerous opponent.”
[Lattimore and Mathieu move forward as the bell signals the beginning of the fight. Lattimore looks to be in very good shape as he bobs and weaves very swiftly on his toes before going in with a looping right hand. Von Mathieu jumps back and jabs and doesn’t seem affected by the shot as he counters with a few punches of his own. Lattimore answers back with another looping right hand that rocks Mathieu back a few steps and then an overhand right as he tries to circle back in.]
BODIE SULLIVAN: “Lattimore is showing off that speed he talked about during the press conference. That’s definitely an advantage he has in this division.”
JASON JACKSON: “I like how he’s constantly moving already. Don’t stay on that centerline and be an easy target. With the reach Von Mathieu has, that could be disastrous.”
[Lattimore connects with a hook to the body that opens his opponent up for him to rain down combos to the face. Mathieu’s corner looks worried as Lattimore dodges a strike and counters with a crushing hook
that almost lifts Mathieu from the ground! Lattimore targets the body again, digging a hook to the ribs, but Mathieu finally answers back with a shattering straight right hand that gets Lattimore’s attention and backs him off.]
BODIE SULLIVAN: “Lattimore is mixing it up very well and keeping Mathieu guessing out there.”
JASON JACKSON: “He’s gotta stay close, fight in that phone booth and negate Mathieu’s range.”
[Both men circle back toward the center of the octagon before Lattimore charges at Mathieu, throwing flurries left and right. Not many punches are landing, but the ones that do are huge shots! Mathieu retaliates with a stinging jab down the middle but Lattimore launches himself in the air, connecting with a crushing Superman punch. Lattimore tries to follow up with a couple of jabs and then a big hook, but Mathieu dodges the traffic and circles around his opponent looking for better angles.]
BODIE SULLIVAN: “Lattimore is throwing punches in bunches and shows no signs of slowing down!”
JASON JACKSON: “This could be a long night for Mathieu if he doesn’t string some offense together. Lattimore is just firing at will right now.”
[Lattimore is laser focused and reads every small tell Mathieu has. Any time Mathieu initiates any offense, Lattimore swarms him with punches. Mathieu is having a hard time keeping up with Lattimore’s tempo, and gets caught with another Superman punch that puts him on the backs of his heels. Mathieu stumbles back and his cornermen are screaming. Gauge Lattimore comes in again to capitalize with a barrage of punches over a dazed Von Mathieu who almost cannot stand! One after another Gauge Lattimore is punishing Mathieu, but somehow, some way, Von Mathieu manages to circle out of range and creates plenty of space to cool down the fight and allow himself to regain his wits.]
BODIE SULLIVAN: “Ooooh, I thought we were about to see a finish there!”
JASON JACKSON: “I gotta hand it to Von Mathieu, the guy is tough as nails but that’s only gonna get you so far. He can’t keep taking this kind of damage.”
[Von Mathieu is bloodied from a couple sizable cuts on his forehead and cheek, which is a big target for the former Cruiserweight Champion. Lattimore circles his way back in and throws a one-two combo, then fakes a move to fire a big right hand on the chin! The strikes hit home but he’s not done just yet. An overhand right from Lattimore lands that looks like it was capable of destroying a brick wall and yet somehow Mathieu is still standing. Mathieu throws a lazy kick that Lattimore easily checks and fires an uppercut that almost puts Von into orbit.]
BODIE SULLIVAN: “Mathieu is running on fumes and is hurt, I’d be surprised if he’s the end of the round.”
JASON JACKSON: “He’s an easy target for Lattimore, I’m shocked that Bruno Alves hasn’t waved this one off yet.”
[Lattimore finds an opening in the defense of Mathieu, launching a big uppercut that lands clean. A surprise roundhouse punch by Lattimore lands clean and Von Mathieu is a bloody mess that has absolutely no answers out there. Lattimore isn’t even setting up his shots anymore, just launching hands and Mathieu just eats them. It seems like Mathieu is on the brink of getting knocked out, even though referee Bruno Alves could probably step in and stop this fight, but the time continues to tick away. Lattimore throws a hook that hits right on the button just before the horn signals the end of the round. The cutman meets Von Mathieu halfway and immediately begins working on the massive cuts to stop the bleeding.]
BODIE SULLIVAN: “Wooow. That was a near flawless round for Gauge Lattimore.”
JASON JACKSON: “It wasn’t even close, Bodie. Forget a 10-8 score, that one might have been a 10-7. Look at Mathieu right now, he’s leaking bad. I think the Ringside Physician might wanna step in and take a look here.”
[Despite the cutman’s best efforts, Von Mathieu’s face is still covered in blood as we begin the second round. He may be having problems seeing as he wipes the blood out of his eyes. Lattimore chases Mathieu and launches a few perfect strikes. Mathieu steps backwards when those punches connect with his face and he continues to be an easy target for Lattimore! Von fights back and the two engage in a heated exchange. Both fighters are connecting with big shots and this could be ending soon if either lands that lucky punch.]
BODIE SULLIVAN: “And now we got ourselves a firefight!”
JASON JACKSON: “Big shot landing here! Von Mathieu is throwing up that Hail Mary pass right now trying to get an upset finish!”
[Von Mathieu throws a combo but Lattimore dodges the traffic and catches him with a counter straight! Mathieu swings again, only to get countered once more! Mathieu is in serious trouble as Lattimore continues with a rapid series of punches, taking Mathieu from one end of the cage to the other! You can see Mathieu’s blood making stains on the mat with each shot he absorbs. Lattimore feints and moves forward to hit with a hook and then a follow up uppercut that drops Mathieu to the mat like a ton of bricks.]
BODIE SULLIVAN: “And this one is all over! Gauge Lattimore puts an end to a dominant performance and he will move on to the Grand Prix semifinals!”
JASON JACKSON: “Kudos to Gauge Lattimore. This was a big rebound win for him to get him back in the win column and I think he just put the entire heavyweight division on notice!”
[The crowd explodes into cheers while Lattimore celebrates with his cornermen. The Ringside Physicians rush into the octagon and immediately tend to Mathieu. After a few moments pass, Von is able to stand on his own, so the medical team files out of the cage so both fighters can meet back in the center of the octagon for the official call.]
MIKE DEMPSEY: “Ladies and gentlemen, referee Bruno Alves has called for a stop in this fight at one minute five seconds in the second round, declaring your winner by knockout, Gauge “Lights Out” Lattimore!”
[The crowd cheers once again as Lattimore has his hand raised in victory. Both fighters shake hands as a gesture of mutual respect before splitting off to their respective crews. A graphic pops up on screen, breaking down the statistics of the fight while the commentators recap.]
Winner: Gauge Lattimore by KO (Uppercut) at 1:05 Round 2
Statistics: Gauge Lattimore
Punches 62/79 (78%)
Kicks 0/0 (0%)
Clinch strikes 0/0 (0%)
Takedowns 0/0 (0%)
GnP strikes 0/0 (0%)
Submissions 0/0 (0%)
Clinch Attempts 0/0 (0%)
Time on the ground 0 s
Statistics: Von Mathieu
Punches 14/19 (74%)
Kicks 0/0 (0%)
Clinch strikes 0/0 (0%)
Takedowns 0/0 (0%)
GnP strikes 0/0 (0%)
Submissions 0/0 (0%)
Clinch Attempts 0/0 (0%)
Time on the ground 0 s
BODIE SULLIVAN: “We are back ladies and gentlemen from our break for station identification, be sure to check out the latest DRIP show coming later this month. Before we head into our second Interim Heavyweight Championship Grand Prix match up, big shout out to Xabier Belazco, who’s here tonight after his big win at RFC 1.
JASON JACKSON:“Mad respect for the Zen Master. A consummate professional in and out of the cage or ring. Glad to see him on the ups and it looks like he’s found a new home over there in Japan.”
MIKE DEMPSEY: “Ladies and gentlemen, the following contest is scheduled for three rounds in the Union Grand Prix Heavyweight Division! Introducing first, fighting out of the blue corner, a Kickboxer holding a professional mixed martial arts record of four wins, three losses. He stands 6’3”, and weighing in at 250 pounds. He is from Bucharest, Romania, fighting out of the Paroxysm Gym, presenting the number eight ranked Heavyweight Contender in the World, “Maini de Piatra” Cezar Miklos!”
[Cezar Miklos is beating himself up in the corner before the fight begins, smacking himself in the face, body and legs to get ready for this fight.]
BODIE SULLIVAN: “Cezar Miklos has got a mountain of a hurdle ahead of him tonight, but on the other side is another step closer to championship glory. Miklos earned the eighth seed in the Grand Prix based on his stellar performance against Bobby Barnett at UGP 36.”
JASON JACKSON: “Quick turnaround for the man buys it’s an opportunity you do not pass up. Three fights, three wins and you’re the interim champ. Not many people even get a glimpse of a title fight, but with Miklos, all he has to do is keep winning and he’s on the path.”
MIKE DEMPSEY: “And his opponent, fighting out of the red corner, a Boxer holding a professional mixed martial arts record of eight wins, five losses. He stands 6’5”, and weighing in at 250 pounds. He is from Saint Petersburg, Russia, fighting out of the Volkov Fighting Institute, presenting the former Union Grand Prix Heavyweight Title Challenger and the former Union Grand Prix Cruiserweight Title Challenger and the number one ranked Heavyweight Contender in the World, “Big Vik” Viktor Volkov!”
[Viktor Volkov is calm in his corner. He looks confident in his abilities.]
BODIE SULLIVAN: “Big Vik Volkov comes in tonight riding a two fight win streak after his loss to this man sitting next to me. Volkov has always been at the top of whatever division he competes in, he’s just always seemed to have that hiccup that robs him from the ultimate prize.”
JASON JACKSON: “Yeah but since he and I fought, Volkov has been looking real good. They say winning cures all, and with two decisive first round knockout wins, Volkov is rolling on all cylinders. He’s the number one seed in this tournament for a reason, and I think as long as he sticks to his game plan and does not allow his opponent to dictate the fight, Volkov could very well coast right into an interim title.”
[The fight gets underway and both fighters opt out of a glove touch. Cezar Miklos throws first, launching a body shot that Volkov dodges and catches him with a hard counter cross. Volkov circles around and finds an opening in the defense of Miklos, launching a big uppercut, but Miklos is quick enough to dodge the uppercut and throws his own counter with a shattering straight right hand.]
BODIE SULLIVAN: “Solid counters from both men to start off.”
JASON JACKSON: “They’re playing chess when most of the division plays checkers.”
[As the fight continues it seems that Viktor Volkov is taking the best of the fight by controlling the cage. The two big men step in and engage in a heated exchange of punches. Both fighters are connecting and the crowd erupts into cheers, sensing a finish is on the horizon. A vicious punch by Volkov rocks Miklos, but he shakes it off and the two continue to trade blows. By now, neither man is generating a lot of damage, so they decide to break off and regroup.]
BODIE SULLIVAN: “Rock em sock em robots, JJ! I thought for sure we were about to see a knockout!”
JASON JACKSON: “Me too, Bodie-san. Those were some massive hands being traded, I’m surprised they’re both still standing.”
[Viktor Volkov circles his way back in and storms in with punches but Miklos dodges the traffic up until one shot looks like it poked his eye. Referee Darrell Stevens didn’t see the foul and this puts Miklos in a vulnerable position. Volkov doesn’t let off the gas and connects with a pair of big uppercuts that wobbles Miklos. With his opponent stumbling on his heels, Volkov rushes in with a bruising combination of punches as he looks for the finish.]
BODIE SULLIVAN: “Volkov May have gotten away with one right there and he’s not letting up either! Cezar Miklos is hurt!”
JASON JACKSON: “Open the throttle up and finish this thing Volk!”
[Miklos isn’t going down without a fight and he starts firing back shots. The two trade hands back and forth, throwing caution to the wind. Volkov is getting the best of the exchange as he lands a few more shots that ends up cutting Miklos on the chin. Volkov rips a nasty hook to the body that stops Miklos in his tracks and Volkov continues to target the body with big shots. Miklos is in a daze and clearly hurt and Volkov moves in for the kill. He uncorks a furious combination that ends up folding Miklos to the mat. The referee jumps in and waves off the fight as the crowd erupts!]
BODIE SULLIVAN: “And this one is all over, folks! Viktor Volkov finishes this one off inside the first frame with an unbelievable sequence.”
JASON JACKSON: “Congrats, uce! Now Volkov moves into the semifinals, setting up a rematch with Billy Tweeds! Damn, what a performance!”
[The crowd explodes into cheers while Volkov celebrates with his cornermen. The Ringside Physicians rush into the octagon and immediately tend to Miklos. After a few moments pass, Miklos is able to stand on his own, so the medical team files out of the cage so both fighters can meet back in the center of the octagon for the official call.]
MIKE DEMPSEY: “Ladies and gentlemen, referee Darrell Stevens has called for a stop in this fight at three minutes twenty-six seconds in the very first round, declaring your winner by knockout, “Big Vik” Viktor Volkov!”
[The crowd cheers once again as Volkov has his hand raised in victory. Both fighters shake hands as a gesture of mutual respect before splitting off to their respective crews. A graphic pops up on screen, breaking down the statistics of the fight while the commentators recap.]
Winner: Viktor Volkov by KO (Punches) at 3:26 Round 1
Statistics: Viktor Volkov
Punches 26/35 (74%)
Kicks 0/0 (0%)
Clinch strikes 0/0 (0%)
Takedowns 0/0 (0%)
GnP strikes 0/0 (0%)
Submissions 0/0 (0%)
Clinch Attempts 0/0 (0%)
Time on the ground 0 s
Statistics: Cezar Miklos
Punches 7/12 (58%)
Kicks 0/0 (0%)
Clinch strikes 0/0 (0%)
Takedowns 0/0 (0%)
GnP strikes 0/0 (0%)
Submissions 0/0 (0%)
Clinch Attempts 0/0 (0%)
Time on the ground 0 s
BODIE SULLIVAN: “Welcome back, ladies and gentlemen. Be sure to keep a lookout for the latest news of Everest SZN 3.”
JASON JACKSON: “I love the product, Bodie. Watching the next generation of fighters hone their skills on a stage as prestigious as what Union offers, there’s nothing like it.”
BODIE SULLIVAN: “Speaking of next gen fighters, we have the Everest Season 2 Welterweight Champion Derrius Webb in the building tonight. Spyda’s latest victory made him a three-time champion, you think we see him inside this octagon with the signature star emblazoned in the center in his next fight?”
JASON JACKSON: “I think he’s ready for it, Bo-dee. I think he’s done everything that’s needed in Everest and now he needs to see some fresh match ups here in Union. Question remains though, where does he move to? Middleweight seems to be the most logical option, I’m not sure his 6’4” frame could make the cut to 155. I’d love to see him in the mix there.”
MIKE DEMPSEY: “Ladies and gentlemen, the following contest is scheduled for three rounds in the Union Grand Prix Bantamweight Division! Introducing first, fighting out of the blue corner, a Brazilian Jiu Jitsu fighter holding a professional mixed martial arts record of five wins, two losses. She stands 5’7”, and weighing in at 135 pounds. She is from São Paulo, but fights out of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, presenting the former Union Grand Prix Bantamweight Title Challenger and the number four ranked Bantamweight Contender in the World, “A Maravilha” Isabel Azevedo!”
[Isabel Azevedo looks like she’s been waiting for this fight forever.]
BODIE SULLIVAN: “With the featured undercard bout, we have arguably two of the best Bantamweight Contenders in the world ready to unleash fury. First up, Isabel Azevedo makes a quick turnaround from her most recent fight, an unfortunate third round stoppage loss to reigning champion Gianna Howard at UGP 36. That one had to especially sting given the fact that the card was held in her home country Brazil. For some, it’s hard to recover such a loss, but I think we can all agree that Izzi is tough as nails and will learn and build off of that. Tonight she faces a former champion who’s got some momentum behind her, so this makes for a big test to see how she responds.”
JASON JACKSON: “No doubt Isabel Azevedo is tough. We’ve seen her grow from not just a world class Jiu Jitsu grappler, but she’s also proven to have some hands as well. To be that well versed is what catapults you to that elite level. She’s still young and new to this sport and has already reached the highest levels and yet she still has so much room for improvement. That’s scary to think about.”
MIKE DEMPSEY: “And her opponent, fighting out of the red corner, a Wrestler holding a professional mixed martial arts record of ten wins, six losses. She stands 5’7” and weighing in at 135 pounds. She is from Irvine, California, and fights out of Los Angeles, California, presenting the former Union Grand Prix Bantamweight Champion and the number three ranked Bantamweight Contender in the World, “L-Mo” Lauren Moore!”
[Lauren Moore looks very relaxed as she sways from side to side in her corner.]
BODIE SULLIVAN: “Lauren Moore has been on the upswing as of late since losing the trilogy fight with Dallas Meechan and a tough split decision loss to Tim Vu. She’s won her last two, most recently she dominated Rachel Parsons for five rounds. It should be noted, she mentioned during the press conference how she’s never faced a fighter quite like Azevedo. L-Mo is known to drag her opponents to the mat and wear them down with her brutal ground and pound, but she’s gonna have to be careful with Izzi.”
JASON JACKSON: “Exactly. Azevedo thrives on the ground and has absolutely no problem fighting off her back. Lauren Moore knows the risks ahead of her and she’s a seasoned veteran that’s faced the best in the business, so I don’t believe she’ll put herself in dangerous situations just. She knows the risks and rewards of all phases of the game. I’m ready to see this one unfold.”
[Both women meet in the middle, touch gloves before taking a step back; there’s more than a few seconds spent sizing each other up, before Izzi launches an absolutely crushing straight right hand that stumbles L-Mo back! Izzi presses the action, jabbing her way into range–only to eat a big right hook from Lauren that puts her down!]
BODIE SULLIVAN: “BOOM! Lauren Moore answers with a devastating shot that sits Izzi down on the mat!”
JASON JACKSON: “That right hook was extra crispy, Bodie!”
[Lars Levy notes that Izzi isn’t out, just knocked down, and allows the fight to continue, and Lauren looks set to just dive straight into Izzi’s guard…but while she readies herself, Izzi throws a hard upkick that forces L-Mo to reconsider, then one to Lauren’s knee that was injured against Tim Vu last year. Rather than play that game anymore, Lauren just backs up and gives Izzi time to get to her feet as well–before absolutely BLASTING her with a right hand on the restart!]
BODIE SULLIVAN: “Oooh! What shot from Lauren Moore!”
JASON JACKSON: “She hit Izzi with a chin spinner right there!”
[Lauren surges forward, landing punch after punch after punch that backs Izzi all the way across the cage, and up against the fence! Lars warns Izzi to defend herself–and she does, by nearly taking Lauren’s head off with an uppercut! In the surprise from the shot, Lauren doesn’t see Izzi change levels and drive for a takedown, easily putting Lauren on her back and passing to half-guard!]
BODIE SULLIVAN: “Izzi Azevedo just flipped the script! She picked Moore up like an Uber Ride, but I don’t think she’s gonna like the destination!”
[Izzi methodically pries Lauren’s guard apart–then sits out for a kneebar on the same knee she almost hyper-extended a moment ago! Whether in surprise, in pain, or in fear of another injury, Lauren almost screams as her knee gets locked out, and Lars Levy steps in to break Isabel’s hold and end the fight!]
BODIE SULLIVAN: “Woooow!”
JASON JACKSON: “Azevedo targeted that same knee she was aiming for earlier. She knew that was a vulnerable subject for Moore. Definitely did her homework for this one, well done!”
BODIE SULLIVAN: “It looked like the end was near for Azevedo, but she dug deep and pulled off a masterful upset here tonight! Like we said, JJ, tough as nails!”
[The crowd explodes into cheers while Izzi celebrates with her cornermen. The Ringside Physicians rush into the octagon and immediately tend to Moore. After a few moments pass, Lauren is able to stand on her own, so the medical team files out of the cage so both fighters can meet back in the center of the octagon for the official call.]
MIKE DEMPSEY: “Ladies and gentlemen, referee Lars Levy has called for a stop in this fight at two minutes twenty-five seconds in the very first round, declaring your winner by submission, “A Maravilha” Isabel Azevedo!”
[The crowd cheers once again as Azevedo has her hand raised in victory. Both fighters shake hands as a gesture of mutual respect before splitting off to their respective crews. A graphic pops up on screen, breaking down the statistics of the fight while the commentators recap.]
Winner: Isabel Azevedo by Submission (Kneebar) at 2:25 Round 1
Statistics: Lauren Moore
Punches 17/18 (94%)
Kicks 0/0 (0%)
Clinch strikes 0/0 (0%)
Takedowns 0/0 (0%)
GnP strikes 0/0 (0%)
Submissions 0/0 (0%)
Clinch Attempts 0/0 (0%)
Time on the ground 23 s
Statistics: Isabel Azevedo
Punches 9/11 (82%)
Kicks 0/0 (0%)
Clinch strikes 0/0 (0%)
Takedowns 1/1 (100%)
GnP strikes 0/0 (0%)
Submissions 1/1 (100%)
Clinch Attempts 0/0 (0%)
Time on the ground 39 s
BODIE SULLIVAN: “Welcome back from the break folks. Be sure to tune in to the Battleground Network when we head to Phoenix, Arizona for Boss Fight XXXVIII where we’ll see that man right there, Reggie James, a Phoenix native, make his Middleweight debut against the former Title Challenger Nigel Musgrove.”
JASON JACKSON:“I can’t wait to see that one, Bodie. Ole Reggie did a lot of good things when he competed at Cruiserweight, despite always being undersized. I think this move is perfect for him and we just might see him go on a destructive tear in that division.”
♫
NOW YOUR HEROES HAVE FALLEN.
CHAMPIONLESS,
THE SEAS ARE RISING.
SO TORCH EVERY BANNER.
♫
[“Idols and Anchors” by Parkway Drive shreds over the PA System and the veteran Byron McCall emerges to the main stage wearing his walkout fight with his 36th Street MMA coaches following behind. McCall never breaks stride with a stoic look across his face, a look of focus from the decorated fighter.]
BODIE SULLIVAN: “Making his way to the octagon now is the surging Hall of Fame legend, Byron McCall. You know JJ, I thought it was very interesting what McCall spoke about Friday at the presser. The man has had an iconic career, with numerous accolades and historic moments. However, he had set his sights on claiming gold when he first signed on to Union and it had always eluded him.”
JASON JACKSON: “At that time he had things going on bigger than the sport. Starting a family and a new chapter in his life, but deep down I think that desire never left him. The sabbatical/semi-retirement proved to be a big benefit. He has looked unstoppable in his return, and I think he knows this very well may be his last shot at a championship. Given his age and the wealth of new talent coming up, this is it. It’s time to leave it all out there and prove you’re the best in the world.”
[McCall reaches cageside where he strips down to his trunks and goes around one-by-one with his corner crew and gives each one a hug before turning to get inspected by the fight official. Once he’s cleared, McCall races up the steps and jogs a few laps around the perimeter of the octagon before posting up in his corner, rolling his neck to stay loose in the meantime.]
♫
I CAN FEEL IT COMING IN THE AIR TONIGHT, (OH LORD)
AND I’VE BEEN WAITING FOR THIS MOMENT, FOR ALL MY LIFE, (OH LORD)
CAN YOU FEEL IT COMING IN THE AIR TONIGHT, OH LORD, (OH LORD)
♫
[The crowd erupts again as “In the Air Tonight” By Phil Collins begins to play throughout the arena, and Travis Decker steps out of the tunnel, the spotlight gleaming off the Middleweight Title around his waist. He looks ready for war as he marches toward the cage with his team. He doesn’t acknowledge the fans, or anyone else, except for his opponent, which his eyes are glued on the entire time.]
BODIE SULLIVAN: “You talk about best in the world, JJ, this has undoubtedly been that guy. Travis Decker comes in tonight riding a seven fight win streak and the last four have been successful title defenses. Taking down the like of Delaney Donovan, Zion Momo’a, Aries Reed, and Robert Guilliman… tonight he has a chance to add one more legend to the résumé.”
JASON JACKSON: “If Decker can get past Byron McCall tonight, that gives him the most consecutive title defenses as a Middleweight and puts him second all-time just behind Delaney Donovan. Not only that, it puts him one shy of the longest winning streak. There’s a lot on the line for him but he’s got ice in his veins. You can’t shake this man. He’s been at the depths of irrelevancy and now he sits on top of the Middleweight mountain.”
[Decker makes it to cageside where he strips down to his trunks and gives each of his cornermen one last hug before turning to the official. Once he gets inspected and cleared, Decker looks up and points to the heavens before racing up the steps. One of his coaches pours some water on the mat as he settles in his corner to wipe his feet and gain a little added grip. Decker remains dialed in as he awaits the official introductions.]
MIKE DEMPSEY: “Ladies and gentlemen, it’s time for the Co-Main Event of the evening! Sanctioned by the Texas Combative Sports Program, our three judges scoring this contest at cageside are David Flowers, Bo Saunders, and Rodrigo Campos, and when the action begins, our referee in charge in the octagon is Colin Davenport. AND NOW! The following contest is scheduled for five rounds and it is for the Union Grand Prix Middleweight Championship! Introducing first, fighting out of the blue corner, a Kickboxer holding a professional mixed martial arts record of twenty-three wins, ten losses. He stands 6’1”, and weighing in at 185 pounds. He is from Boston, Massachusetts, fighting out of 36th Street MMA, presenting the former Union Grand Prix Middleweight Title Challenger and the number one ranked Middleweight Contender in the World, “The Last Call” Byron McCall!”
[Byron McCall raises his fists in his corner. He seems confident.]
MIKE DEMPSEY: “And his opponent, fighting out of the red corner, a Kickboxer holding a professional mixed martial arts record of eleven wins, five losses. He stands 6’2”, and weighing in at 185 pounds. He is from Chicago, Illinois, fighting out of Real Killas MMA, presenting the reigning, defending undisputed Union Grand Prix Middleweight Champion of the World, “Ripcord” Travis Decker!”
[Travis Decker looks very relaxed.]
BODIE SULLIVAN: “Here we go, Jason. We are just seconds away from a possible twenty-five minutes of Championship action. I’m ready. Are you ready?”
JASON JACKSON: “Hey yo hold up… wait… where’s that pip squeak Isaac Cohen at? He’s supposed to be back with my popcorn by now. I gave him twenty dollars!”
[The referee steps to the center of the cage and motions for both fighters to meet. With the announcer standing behind, holding the microphone, referee Colin Davenport gives one final pep talk.]
COLIN DAVENPORT: “Alright fighters, we’ve gone through the rules in the back. Protect yourself at all times, follow my instructions, touch gloves and let’s do it.”
[Without any hesitation, both fighters touch gloves and backpedal to their corners. The referee checks off with each fighter one last time and signals for the bell!]
[Decker starts by launching some tentative punches, but it’s Byron McCall that takes the best of a brief punching exchange. Decker slips a follow-up shot, showing excellent timing as he blasts Byron with a right hook! Byron McCall is caught off balance and slips to the ground! Travis makes no move to follow up as Byron quickly gets back to his feet. Decker avoids a dangerous strike from McCall and counters with a solid straight putting him back on the offense. Byron looks for angles as he throws a few jabs that are countered by Travis Decker’s punches, the two of them trading back and forth in an impressive boxing display including a nice uppercut from McCall and some great crosses from Decker. McCall suddenly steps forward and launches a high kick, but Decker manages to duck the attempt. Byron fakes a punch before launching a liver kick that almost wrenches Travis Decker! Travis has to step back as he instinctively moves to protect his side.]
BODIE SULLIVAN: “No feeling out process for these two! They’re going at it!”
JASON JACKSON: “Decker gets the early knockdown but it looks like McCall hurt him with that kick to the body.”
[McCall goes to follow up with a front kick but Travis blocks it, stepping back to get some distance. Both men are trying to find an opening as McCall starts tagging Decker with low kicks. He steps in and goes for a right cross but Decker steps back right as he commits and hits a brutal high kick to McCall! It forces him back but tries to hit another low kick to an advancing Travis, who this time manages to block it. Byron manages to avoid a combination as he circles around, but then eats another vicious high kick from Travis! McCall falters a step before attempting to shoot in to try and take Travis off his game, but Decker hops back and delivers yet another powerful kick to his head! McCall is in trouble as Decker follows up and nails him with a clean hook, then avoiding a jab and countering with a solid straight right hand! Travis looks to move in to finish this but Byron launches a massive haymaker that just clips Travis on the cheek, forcing him to step back and giving Byron a chance to recover.]
BODIE SULLIVAN: “Travis Decker is putting it on McCall with the head kicks.”
JASON JACKSON: “He’s gotta block those or move outta the way. That is Decker’s signature kill shot.”
[Byron blocks an incoming middle kick from Decker as the champ once again steps forward, but doesn’t manage to avoid yet another solid head kick! Byron is backed up to the cage as Travis launches a big uppercut that barely manages to dodge, before countering with some big hooks to Travis’s damaged ribs. Travis backs up as Colin Davenport tells the fighters to go to their corners as the round is over.]
BODIE SULLIVAN: “Round one is in the books, I think it’s safe to say this one goes in favor of the champ.”
JASON JACKSON: “Yes sir. The knockdown, the head kicks. Byron did some work targeting the body, but he took a lot of damage from those kicks. He’s gotta start defending those or it’s gonna be a short night.”
[Round 2 starts and Travis wastes no time as he blasts McCall with a hook to the head, following with several hooks to the body. Before he can follow up, McCall throws a powerful low kick, and although he blocks it, it forces Travis to halt his momentum for now. Byron blocks another front kick from Decker, then Travis avoids a looping right hand before both men stand and trade shots, Travis gaining the upper hand after a clean straight right to the head. He goes to follow up with a hook but Byron avoids it, forcing Travis to block yet another powerful low kick. Travis goes in for another hook to the body but Byron jumps back, completely disengaging. He seems to be cooling down the fight a bit. Decker tries to engage again with a series of punches, but Byron keeps his distance and dodges them. Travis forces him towards the cage before Byron stands his ground and both men engage in a wild exchange of punches, both men connecting with big shots! Travis fires off a middle kick which Byron jumps back from, looking for that low kick again. Travis goes to block it but Byron switches up and lands a superb body kick instead!]
BODIE SULLIVAN: “Travis Decker isn’t letting off the gas pedal. He’s keeping McCall scattered but that was a nice kick to the body to slow things down a bit.”
JASON JACKSON: “Decker can keep this pace for five rounds. McCall needs to find his range, get some offense going and start leveling out the playing field.”
[Travis winces from the shot and Byron sees this, moving in to follow up but eating a massive overhand right to his face for his trouble! Travis goes back on the offensive as he throws a flurry of punches at McCall, but he manages to avoid most of the blows before launching another kick to the body. Travis manages to block it, but doesn’t block the follow up low kick which lands hard on Travis’ lead leg. Travis fires off another vicious high kick but Byron manages to get out of the way before tagging him with another solid low kick. Travis returns fire with a liver kick that Byron barely manages to block, but is unable to follow up as the round ends, Colin quickly parting the fighters.]
BODIE SULLIVAN: “Another solid round for the champ. He’s found a nice rhythm that’s giving McCall fits.”
JASON JACKSON: “Yeah Bodie, it’s not looking too good for the Hall of Famer. Byron did a better job avoiding the head kicks, but he’s got some catching up to do heading into the third round.”
[The round starts and this time it’s McCall wasting no time as he blasts Decker with a solid kick right below his ribs, the pain on his face clear as he moves to defend them, opening him up for a brutal high kick to the champ! Travis falters as McCall pours on the punishment, nailing a bunch of jabs and crosses. Travis throws a looping right hand to try and back him off, but Byron simply jumps back and moves back in, pouring on the offense to try and end this fight! Travis avoids a brutal hook to the head as he circles around and manages to disengage from Byron using feel-out punches, saving his title reign for now. Both men smile at each other as they move back in and once again engage in a wild exchange of punches! Byron McCall is getting the best of the exchange before connecting with another furious low kick to Decker’s thigh! Both men wildly exchange again, Byron going mostly for body shots. He blocks a low kick from Travis before countering with another brutal kick to the body of Decker! Decker’s hands instinctively move back to defend his side once again before McCall fires a straight right to the champ’s face.]
BODIE SULLIVAN: “Here we go! Byron McCall is unloading on Decker with some beautiful combinations.”
JASON JACKSON: “I think Decker might be hurt out there. Those body shots are taking a big toll on him. He might have a cracked rib.”
[Both men exchange punches again before McCall drops his hands to eat a massive uppercut to the jaw in order to load up another brutal body kick, immediately following up with a low kick that almost wrenches Decker’s knee! Decker’s hands snap up as if to prepare for Byron moving in, but the challenger holds his ground. Byron once again steps in for a big kick to the body, but this time Travis blocks it with his arm, the sound of it echoing through the building. McCall backs up to recover his breath as Travis shakes out his arm. Both men then step forward again to exchange strikes, Travis launching a big hook to the body that McCall doges before catching Decker with a hard cross to the face. Decker throws a massive haymaker but McCall jumps all the way back. Both men circle as the round comes to an end.]
BODIE SULLIVAN: “That was a much better round for Byron McCall. He finally created some much needed momentum with those body shots and leg kicks. Slowly chopping Decker down and taking away his base to generate that destructive power.”
JASON JACKSON: “Everyone oooh’s and aaah’s from the big strikes to the head, but those body shots can be just as lethal. They can completely zap you and just shut off all bodily functions. McCall has got a strategy in mind and it’s working for him. Now he’s just gotta build off of it as we head into championship rounds.”
[As both men enter the fourth round McCall immediately goes back to that leg as he hits a solid low kick that puts the champ off balance. Byron does not hesitate as he blasts Decker with a high kick, before moving in to throw some vicious hooks to the body. Travis is backed up to the cage as he moves to defend his ribs, eating another massive high kick from Byron, but still not going down! Travis is still firmly on his feet until McCall throws another brutal kick to the body, a sickening crack heard as Travis crumples against the cage, holding his ribs. Colin Davenport jumps in immediately between the two before McCall can even think of following up, effectively ending this fight.]
BODIE SULLIVAN: “That’s it! This fight is all over!”
JASON JACKSON: “We have a new champion, ladies and gentlemen! Byron McCall rallies back from near defeat to pull off an enormous upset!”
[The crowd explodes into cheers while Byron McCall races up the fence and perches high to celebrate with his cornermen and the crowd. The Ringside Physicians rush into the octagon and immediately tend to Decker. After a few moments pass, Decker is able to stand on his own, so the medical team files out of the cage so both fighters can meet back in the center of the octagon for the official call.]
MIKE DEMPSEY: “Ladies and gentlemen, referee Colin Davenport has called for a stop in this fight at one minute five seconds in the fourth round, declaring your winner by technical knockout, AND NEW Union Grand Prix Middleweight Champion of the World, “The Last Call” Byron McCall!”
[The crowd cheers once again as McCall has his hand raised in victory and the strap wrapped around his waist by Dante Reed. Both fighters shake hands as a gesture of mutual respect before splitting off to their respective crews. A graphic pops up on screen, breaking down the statistics of the fight while the commentators recap.]
Winner: Byron McCall by TKO (Body Kick) at 1:05 Round 4
Statistics: Travis Decker
Punches 19/63 (30%)
Kicks 4/11 (36%)
Clinch strikes 0/0 (0%)
Takedowns 0/0 (0%)
GnP strikes 0/0 (0%)
Submissions 0/0 (0%)
Clinch Attempts 0/0 (0%)
Time on the ground 0 s
Statistics: Byron McCall
Punches 46/65 (71%)
Kicks 19/26 (73%)
Clinch strikes 0/0 (0%)
Takedowns 0/0 (0%)
GnP strikes 0/0 (0%)
Submissions 0/0 (0%)
Clinch Attempts 0/0 (0%)
Time on the ground 11 s
BODIE SULLIVAN: “Welcome back ladies and gentlemen. As we wrap up the final commercial break, we are just minutes away from the Lightweight Championship Main Event. We will land in Sin City Las Vegas for our next supercard, UGP 38. The main event is a rematch from the inaugural Everest MMA Strawweight Championship as the reigning Bantamweight Champion Gianna Howard takes on Lilly Dunne for part deux.”
JASON JACKSON: “We are all aware of how dominant Gianna Howard has been since moving to Union GP, and Lilly Dunne knows it too. They are both Vegas natives, and also teammates at the world renowned Throne MMA, so you know they see each other every day. Lilly Dunne has worked her way up the Bantamweight rankings and has earned this rematch. I can’t wait for it, Bodie. It’s gonna be a knockdown, drag out brawl!”
BODIE SULLIVAN: “No doubt. And speaking of knockdown, drag out brawls, here in attendance tonight is the former Everest Featherweight Champion and Union GP Lightweight Title Challenger Alistair McKay. JJ, do you think Ali is here to cheer on his fellow Aussie Paige Holloway, or do you think he’s here for a close up scouting session?”
JASON JACKSON: “I’d say a little from column A and a little from column B. I know he hasn’t forgotten his controversial loss to Delaney Donovan that handed him his first loss in his professional career and I bet you it’s one he’d like to get back. Maybe he’s scheming toward a rematch before Donovan hangs it up, maybe he’s cheering on Paige, or maybe he’s looking at a possible Aussie versus Aussie superfight?! Could you imagine another visit to Marvel Stadium with two of Australia’s biggest MMA stars on the marquee? Call us the Federal Reserve because we’d just be printing money!”
[The arena lights cut to total darkness. The crowd gradually grows louder with various cheers and chants as the beginning riff of “Turn the Page” covered by Metallica begins to screech through the loudspeakers. The first verse plays and as it crescendos, the arena flashes with brilliant white lights to kick in the chorus.]
♫
HERE I AM, ON THE ROAD AGAIN
THERE I AM, UP ON THE STAGE
THERE I GO PLAYIN’ THE STAR AGAIN
THERE I GO, TURN THE PAGE
♫
[Just then, Paige Holloway makes her presence known as she steps through the curtain and onto the main stage. She’s met with unanimous cheers and though you can feel the energy, Holloway stays focused with one task in mind, to win this epic fight that’s on the horizon.]
BODIE SULLIVAN: “The iconic Paige Holloway is now making her way to the octagon and looks ready as ever to face quite possibly her toughest challenge in her career. Holloway has gone 3-0 since debuting in Union, all in dominant fashion. She brought up that some have questioned whether she’s earned this opportunity, but I think you’d be a fool to say she doesn’t deserve this.”
JASON JACKSON: “Listen, if Paige Holloway really wanted to, she could have walked right into a title shot in her first Union GP fight. But she stated she wanted to earn her spot and prove that the layoff didn’t hinder her skill set. I think we can put those questions to bed and just sit back and enjoy this historic fight.”
[Paige makes it to cageside and begins to disrobe her warmup gear and hand it off to one of her Throne coaches. Before she turns to the official to get inspected, Paige goes one by one to each coach and embraces each one with a genuine hug. While Paige is being inspected, she’s lip syncing the lyrics and staying in the moment. Once she’s done, she hustles up the steps and jogs a quick lap around the perimeter of the octagon before stationing herself in her respective corner.]
♫
HER BREATH BEGAN TO SPEAK
AS SHE STOOD RIGHT IN FRONT OF ME
THE COLOUR OF HER EYES
WERE THE COLOUR OF INSANITY
CRUSHED BENEATH HER WAVE
LIKE A SHIP, I COULD NOT REACH THE SHORE
WE’RE ALL JUST DANCERS ON THE DEVIL’S DANCE FLOOR
♫
[“Devil’s Dance Floor” by Flogging Molly blasts over the loudspeaker and Delaney Donovan emerges to the stage wearing his Irish flag inspired walkout fight kit with crew members from his Kratos Combat Sports camp following behind. Donovan burrows his head down while slowly walking down the aisle.]
BODIE SULLIVAN: “And with the final walkout of the night, the reigning Lightweight Champion Delaney Donovan is here to do what he does best and continue to shatter records. We’ve talked about all the records he holds, all of the fights that will live on for years to come, and the fact the run is coming to an end. Two fights left on his contract and he rides off in the sunset.”
JASON JACKSON: “Bodie you said it, we’ve preached until we’re blue in the face about what this guy has accomplished. Even though an end game is in sight, he hasn’t lost a step or taken his sights off of his goals. It’s not just what he’s done inside that octagon, but the fact that he has built his own camp and is spreading his wealth of knowledge to the next generation shows what kind of a man he is. He’s given everything he has to this sport and to these fans watching here tonight and at home. Unbelievable competitor, a true generational fighter.”
[Donovan makes it to cageside where he is checked up on by the fight official. Once cleared, he climbs up the steps and calmly takes his place in his corner while shadow boxing along the way.]
MIKE DEMPSEY: “Ladies and gentlemen, it’s time for the Main Event of the evening! Sanctioned by the Texas Combative Sports Program, our three judges scoring this contest at cageside are David Flowers, Bo Saunders, and Rodrigo Campos, and when the action begins, our referee in charge in the octagon is Archie Driscoll. AND NOW, this is the moment you’ve all been waiting for! The following contest is scheduled for five rounds and it is for the Union Grand Prix Lightweight Championship! Introducing first, fighting out of the blue corner, a Muay Thai Kickboxer holding a professional mixed martial arts record of twenty-five wins, four losses, one draw. She stands 5’10”, and weighing in at 155 pounds. She is from Brisbane, Queensland, Australia, by way of Las Vegas, Nevada, fighting out of Throne MMA, presenting the number one ranked Lightweight Contender in the World, “Ram-Paige” Paige Holloway!”
[Paige takes a step forward from her corner and raises a clenched fist high in the air as the crowd cheers her on.]
MIKE DEMPSEY: “And her opponent, fighting out of the red corner, a Muay Thai Kickboxer holding a professional mixed martial arts record of seventeen wins, two losses. He stands 5’9”, and weighing in at 155 pounds. He is from Belfast, Northern Ireland, fighting out of Kratos Combat Sports, presenting the former Union Grand Prix Middleweight Champion and the reigning, defending, undisputed Union Grand Prix Lightweight Champion of the World, “Double D” Delaney Donovan!”
[The roof is about to blow as Donovan is introduced. He takes a bow then beats his chest a few times, looking ready as ever for battle.]
BODIE SULLIVAN: “Ladies and gentlemen, we are just moments away from history in the making. Two future Hall of Fame fighters are set for a possible twenty-five minutes of mayhem.”
JASON JACKSON: “And this place is electric! Sixty-four thousand plus in the house, not a single ass in their seat. This is what it’s all about!”
[The referee steps to the center of the cage and motions for both fighters to meet. With the announcer standing behind, holding the microphone, referee Archie Driscoll gives one final pep talk.]
ARCHIE DRISCOLL: “Alright fighters, we’ve gone through the rules in the back. Protect yourself at all times, follow my instructions, touch gloves and let’s do it.”
[Without much hesitation, both fighters touch gloves and backpedal to their corners. The referee checks off with each fighter one last time and signals for the bell!]
[A quick tap of the gloves by both fighters at the center of the octagon kicks things off. A few moments later the champ opens things up with a solid shot to Holloway’s body that gets an immediate wince from the challenger. She shakes it off quickly, however, and tries to respond with a body blow of her own but Donovan sidesteps it and then blocks a nasty low kick that Ram-Paige had followed it up with. After a misstep from the challenger Delaney looks to throw a combo but Holloway ducks out of the way and then both fighters circle out.]
BODIE SULLIVAN: “Great awareness from both fighters as they fine tune their range.”
[Delaney reengages first, tagging Paige with a nice jab but eats a stiff kick to the leg as payment, which causes the champion to grimace just a hair. Using the opening, Paige ties Delaney up in the clinch. He absorbs a few shots to the body before shoving her away, trying to keep the fight at striking distance. The fight then stalls out some as both try and find their range, being cautious early on not wanting to give the other an opening they could seize on.]
JASON JACKSON: “Paige has got the reach advantage in this one, but we’ve seen plenty of times before that it doesn’t bother Delaney in the slightest.”
BODIE SULLIVAN: “Whether it’s on the perimeter or in the clinch, Donovan has shown to be as good as anybody in the striking department. The way he can control the fight and dictate the distance to his advantage has been a big key to his success.”
[It’s the challenger who fires first in the next engagement, with Donovan ducking and weaving his way out of the path of a big looping right hand, countering with a flurry of jabs and crosses. Moments later the crowd erupts as both champion and challenger start swinging for the fences dead center in the middle of the cage but neither are able to land anything significant with both fighters showing tremendous capability to avoid taking damage.]
BODIE SULLIVAN: “The fists are flying, JJ!”
JASON JACKSON: “They said the hell with this feeling out process, they stand and bang!”
[Getting a little bit more comfortable as the round goes on, Holloway throws a series of kicks, most of which Delaney is able to check or avoid entirely but she does tag him with another low kick that causes his corner to shout warnings to him to focus on avoiding taking more damage from that sort of strike. Ram-Paige then tries another big right hand but once more Delaney is able to slip it and respond with a jab-cross combo that lands cleanly.]
BODIE SULLIVAN: “Solid leg kick from Holloway but she pays the price for it.”
JASON JACKSON: “You gotta watch for that. At times Delaney doesn’t mind eating a shot in order to fire off three-four-five right back at ya.”
[The two fighters paw at each other some, testing each other until the final fifteen seconds of the round where once more they meet at the center of the octagon, each looking to take the other’s head off. Both manage to land some solid blows but neither is able to find that one shot that would bring the fight to an end. A few seconds later the round comes to its end with the crowd on its feet, the referee stepping in to direct both champion and challenger back to their respective corners.]
BODIE SULLIVAN: “Great way to end round one. Tough decision for the judges to try and score that one.”
JASON JACKSON: “It was close, but I think you gotta give that one to Delaney. He pushed the pace and was able to land more significant strikes.”
[Holloway comes out in the second appearing much more aggressive, connecting with a nasty right but Donovan answers with a double jab combo that backs Holloway off momentarily. Double D walks her down, throwing an uppercut that the challenger slips and seizes the advantage on, once more tying Delaney up in the clinch. Immediately he looks to shove her away and as there is just the slightest separation, Ram-Paige slams a knee into his abdomen, causing the champion to stumble backward. Instinctively, Holloway shoots in and wraps him up, bringing him down to the canvas with a beautiful takedown.]
BODIE SULLIVAN: “Oh my! Holloway with the takedown, this could get interesting.”
JASON JACKSON: “I can’t even tell you the last time I saw Double D on the mat.”
[Donovan, however, scrambles immediately and is able to get back to his feet. He studies her for a moment, trying to find his range still but each time he makes an effort to get close, she backs him off with a low kick. Sensing his caution, she decides to put on the pressure, unleashing a flurry of punches but Delaney doesn’t back down from those. Instead he takes the chance to re-engage and gets the best of the exchange, landing a few solid shots. On instinct, Paige throws another kick to try and back Delaney off but he counters with his own haymaker that she never sees coming, landing flush on her chin. The challenger’s knees wobble and start to buckle but she doesn’t go down!]
BODIE SULLIVAN: “OOOH! Big right hand from Donovan!”
JASON JACKSON: “Paige got the Bambi legs right now, Delaney should try and finish it!”
[Out of desperation, recognizing that the champion is going to close to finish the fight, Ram-Paige throws a kick that snaps off Donovan’s thigh and it accomplishes its purpose, slowing down Double D’s charge. Another wild exchange follows with Paige shoving Double D away from her only to follow up with a solid hook to Delaney’s ribs before fully circling out herself.]
BODIE SULLIVAN: “Holloway has been building her offense off of those leg kicks and it’s setting to pay off.”
JASON JACKSON: “It’s keeping Delaney honest and at the same time keeping him offbeat.”
[Both circle the cage, both fighters still being relatively cautious even into the second round. An uppercut from Holloway connects but she misses the follow up head kick that leaves her open to the counter uppercut Donovan connected with half a second later. She looks to circle out but Donovan cuts her off with punches, sending her reeling and circling away once more and with only a few more seconds left in the second round, it comes to a close without anything eventful occurring.]
BODIE SULLIVAN: “One more in the books and another close round. Paige got some offense going here, but I think Delaney was still inflicting more damage.”
JASON JACKSON: “Yeah she got rocked early in the round, and I’m not sure if they’re gonna credit her for that takedown. For me, I see Double D up two rounds to none, but it’s razor thin.”
[Coming out to start the third it’s noticeable that the challenger looks to be just as fresh as she was at the start of the first round. One might expect that after the lengthy time she had had away from mixed martial arts prior to her recent return to Union Grand Prix. As though she looked to express just how much gas she had left in the tank, Holloway starts the third round off with a high kick that grazes Delaney’s head. He seems okay but a little redness has started to show.]
JASON JACKSON: “Shake it off, champ.”
[The challenger nearly lands a jab on the button but it’s just narrowly avoided by Double D as another furious exchange follows. It’s these exchanges where Donovan seems to be having some success but up to this point he hasn’t been able to string enough of them together. Part of the reason for that may be the variety of kicks that Paige Holloway continues to trouble him with. This time one of those many kicks is blocked by Delaney, but the contact with his arm is so loud it elicits a gasp from the capacity crowd.]
BODIE SULLIVAN: “And there it is again like we talked about. Delaney Donovan has no problems walking through the fire to get his own shots in, but that kick sounded rough.”
JASON JACKSON: “Yeah he may have blocked it, but you damn well bet that shit hurt like a mofo. I’ve seen guys get their arms snapped trying to block a kick like that.”
[Holloway throws a crisp uppercut and a hard jab that Delaney deflects and as the challenger draws closer to him, Donovan surprises her by tying her up in a textbook thai clinch. Smartly, Holloway tries to gain some space by throwing a flurry of hooks to the champion’s body but Double D tightens down on the clinch to control his opponent some. The challenger again pushes away and then tries a flying knee aimed at Donovan’s chest which he blocks and circles away. Again, Holloway missteps in her pursuit and Delaney answers with a flurry of huge shots. A furious one two combo connects flush and rocks the challenger!]
BODIE SULLIVAN: “That left hand from Yale, that right hand from Harvard, and Paige Holloway is getting an education right now.”
[Much like the last time she was in danger, however, Holloway does enough to buy herself time. A quick jab grazes Donovan’s left cheek and the swelling that was just starting to be noticed after the head kick to open the round can be seen with a little more color than before. She keeps the pressure on with a low kick that Delaney checks, but Paige pours on the pressure with a hailstorm of punches that opens up a small cut under Delaney’s left eye! The champion is bleeding!]
BODIE SULLIVAN: “Double D gets carved up in that exchange. Right below the eye, that could pose a problem the longer this goes on.”
[Seizing the momentum, Paige ties him up in a Thai clinch and lands solid knees to the champion’s face. She tags him with a series of punches right after and then, almost as if to show she was perfectly in control, tries to stomp on his feet while the two are tied up in the clinch. Another knee comes, this one to Donovan’s body and it suddenly seems like it’s the champion that is in danger for the first time in a long, long time!]
JASON JACKSON: “Ooh! Delaney’s organs are doing the Harlem Shake after that knee! He’s hurt!”
[Finally, Donovan is able to regain some control in the clinch and get himself into a more advantageous position. He postures up and launches his own flurry of punches but Paige is able to block most of the strikes. In response she throws some knees to his thighs that seem to be causing him some trouble too. Finally, she throws a knee to the body and it’s a glancing blow but Donovan seizes on the opportunity to break free of the clinch. As he does, however, Paige throws a flying knee and the impact connects so violently it slams the champion back against the fence just as the buzzer sounds!]
BODIE SULLIVAN: “What an incredible turnaround for Paige Holloway! Absolutely flawless way to cap off this round. She just about sent the champ to the land of wind and ghosts.”
JASON JACKSON: “Those were some nasty knees inside that clinch. A lesser man would have crumbled like a house of cards, but Double D is tougher than a two dollar steak. I’m interested to see how he responds now as we head into championship rounds.”
[Donovan comes out of his corner in the fourth with the cut under his left eye taken care of, at least for the moment. He tries to size Paige up, pawing at her but eats a quick one-two combo from Paige that backs him down. Knowing that he needs to do something to regain some footing after the third, the champion pressures the challenger a bit, a couple of punishing hooks to Holloway’s body landing cleanly. That offense is quickly brought to an end by a wicked kick to Double D’s thigh!]
BODIE SULLIVAN: “Chopping away at the legs. Delaney Donovan just looked at Paige Holloway and wondered if she got a Tiger Woods 9 iron on her leg.”
[The two circle out and when they re-engage it’s Holloway who throws a low kick that Donovan doesn’t check in time and it wrenches his knee violently. The shout that the hyperextension of Donovan’s knee elicits can be heard throughout the arena, and the excruciating nature of the pain easily read on his face. Yet he doesn’t go down, avoids the big right hand from the challenger and stops her in her tracks with a stiff counter right of his own.]
BODIE SULLIVAN: “Oooh, that knee is looking bad, JJ. There could be some serious damage going on.”
JASON JACKSON: “It doesn’t look good for the champ. He’s powering through it right now though.”
[The two circle out, with Donovan gingerly testing his left leg as he does so. Both fighters show each other a ton of respect as even in the fourth round they continue to size one another up, looking for holes in the other’s defenses. Paige connects with a nice stiff shot but Donovan ties her up in the clinch and then unloads with an elbow, and then another and another. They all connect flush and they force Paige to duck out of Delaney’s embrace and circle away, putting distance between herself and the champion.]
BODIE SULLIVAN: “Nice elbows to slice and dice the challenger.”
JASON JACKSON: “That may be the way to go for Delaney. Keep it close and negate those leg kicks.”
[Feeling a little more confident after the last exchange from the clinch, Donovan looks to reassert himself but takes a middle kick to the ribs and then a big hook to the body as well. Quickly, Holloway ties Donovan up and slams a bone shattering left hand into Delaney’s face. She then shoves him away and snaps off another kick to Delaney’s left leg and it’s clear that that is going to continue to give him problems as he grimaces on impact. One more kick connects, this time to Donovan’s thigh, as the fourth round comes to an end. Both fighters shake hands before returning to their corners with Delaney noticeably limping on his way there.]
BODIE SULLIVAN: “Four down, one to go. This fight may very well be tied up on the scorecards as Holloway continues to outwork the champion.”
JASON JACKSON: “Holloway is in a great position right now. Donovan’s knee is giving him some major problems, there could be some major ligament damage and if that’s the case, he’s a sitting duck out there. Five more minutes, let’s see if Double D can pull”
[After the earlier change in champions the crowd is certainly hoping to see another. Travis Decker is already unseated and as Paige Holloway pushes herself up off the stool to ready herself for the fifth, and final, round of this Lightweight Championship fight it’s almost as though it’s in the air. She can feel the moment coming and across the octagon from her the champion that has sat atop the Lightweight throne for nearly three years waits. He’s breathing heavily and the last two rounds have seen him absorb an immense amount of damage. But he still stands, defiant and demanding that if the Lightweight championship is going to change hands on this night, she’s going to have to go the full five rounds to make it happen.]
BODIE SULLIVAN: “Look at these two warriors. Battered, bloodied, bruised, but still no fear!”
[And so the fifth starts with a beautiful high kick that might have ended the night against any other fighter but Delaney Donovan blocks it and side steps, showing off his footwork in spite of the knee that everyone and their mother knows is injured. He fakes a punch, looking for his own opening but absorbs a one-two combo that opens the cut that had been closed by the champions corner after the third round. Both fighters then circle out.]
BODIE SULLIVAN: “That cut is opened up again on Delaney.”
JASON JACKSON: “When it rains, it pours, Bodie. Delaney is getting no favors from the MMA Gods.”
[Looking for her angles, Holloway throws a few jabs that are countered but the champion is slowing down some and is on the receiving end of another great combo from Ram-Paige. And then, shocking the world, Paige throws a glorious head kick that connects. Donovan loses his balance and goes down to the mat. The referee nearly steps in but Donovan is quick to scramble from his back, up to his feet and circle away from the challenger. As he does so the camera crew gets a good shot of another cut that has been opened up, though small, on the champion’s chin.]
BODIE SULLIVAN: “OOOH! Donovan gets dropped!”
JASON JACKSON: “Paige hit him with a chin spinner, but he’s still fighting back!”
[Ram-Paige is on a rampage now, though, pouring on the pressure with a series of punches, a low kick that again connects with the injured knee of the champion, and then a nasty hook to the body that connects with Delaneys ribs. As if to emphasize just how much Paige Holloway has taken over the fight, the camera focuses in on the battered ribs of Delaney Donovan as well. And yet he still stands, determined as ever to keep going in this fight. To make the challenger earn the championship that he had given so much of himself for.]
BODIE SULLIVAN: “Paige Holloway has taken over this fight, but Delaney isn’t going down.”
JASON JACKSON: “He’s too tough, Bodie. He’s a terminator. You cannot take this man out and for that, you have to keep pushing. Delaney catch you slipping and this is totally different outcome.”
[By this point, however, it’s clear that Paige Holloway is trying to finish the fight and not let it go to the judges. A stiff jab opens up an identical cut under his right eye, matching the one under his left. Donovan’s own corner looks like they might be ready to throw in the towel as Delaney eats another powerful kick to his head and this time without any real effort to avoid it. With each passing moment blood, that had just barely been a trickle earlier on, now pours from a number of wounds.]
BODIE SULLIVAN: “This is getting hard to watch, Jason. Delaney continues to absorb so much damage, but I just don’t think he’s got it in him to fight back.”
JASON JACKSON: “I… I’m at a loss for words right now. The referee is letting this continue, giving the legend a chance, but he might wanna step in and call this one off.”
[Little to no offense comes from the champion for the remaining moments of the fight. Holloway throws punches in bunches. She throws, and connects, with brutal kicks. And while Delaney does his best to block, deflect, and avoid the swarm of offense he’s absorbing the majority of it. But still standing and by the time the round finally reaches its conclusion the crowd is on its feet, but they aren’t cheering.]
BODIE SULLIVAN: “And this one goes the distance!”
JASON JACKSON: “What a fight. What a spectacle. We just witnessed a changing of the guard play out over twenty-five minutes. I can’t believe I’m saying this, but I think we have ourselves a new Lightweight Champion!”
[There’s silence. The bell sounds and the fight will go to the judges. As the referee steps in, Delaney tiredly embraces Paige Holloway, undoubtedly the new Lightweight Champion of the world. Battered and bloodied, Double D went out on his shield.]
MIKE DEMPSEY: “Ladies and gentlemen, after five rounds of action, we go to the judges’ scorecards for a decision! The judges score the fight 49-46, 49-46, and 50-45, for the winner by unanimous decision, annnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnd…. NEW! Union Grand Prix Lightweight Champion of the World, “Ram-Paige,” Paige Holloway!”
[Opinion on the decision is split–Delaney’s fanbase may not be happy with the loss, but there’s just as many fans that are cheering for Paige’s win. Her arm gets raised, the belt gets put over her shoulder, and she immediately pulls it off and holds it up to the crowd with a beaming smile on her face, eliciting more of each reaction. After a moment of celebration, she turns to bump fists with Delaney, a short chat between the two taking place before they split off to go shake hands with each others’ respective teams. While Paige gets her victory lap in, the statistics of the fight pop up on the screen.]
JUDGE DAVID FLOWERS
Delaney Donovan 9 10 9 9 9: 46
Paige Holloway 10 9 10 10 10: 49
JUDGE BO SAUNDERS
Delaney Donovan 9 9 9 9 9: 45
Paige Holloway 10 10 10 10 10: 50
JUDGE RODRIGO CAMPOS
Delaney Donovan 9 10 9 9 9: 46
Paige Holloway 10 9 10 10 10: 49
Winner: Paige Holloway by Unanimous Decision
Statistics: Delaney Donovan
Punches 38/75 (51%)
Kicks 0/0 (0%)
Clinch strikes 3/8 (38%)
Takedowns 0/0 (0%)
GnP strikes 0/0 (0%)
Submissions 0/0 (0%)
Clinch Attempts 0/0 (0%)
Time on the ground 10 s
Statistics: Paige Holloway
Punches 50/93 (54%)
Kicks 26/38 (68%)
Clinch strikes 26/43 (60%)
Takedowns 0/0 (0%)
GnP strikes 0/0 (0%)
Submissions 0/0 (0%)
Clinch Attempts 0/0 (0%)
Time on the ground 0 s
[In the moments after the fight, as the ringside doctor is checking on the fallen former champion, Bodie Sullivan finds his way into the ring to speak with the man who was, perhaps, the most notable fighter of his generation. Others continue to try and staunch the bleeding and tend to him physically but for the moment, Delaney waves them away.]
DELANEY DONOVAN: “Fookin’ hell, Bodie. Woman bloody beat me arse those last three rounds. Ah, I suppose we all knew this moment was coming at one point or another didn’t we.”
[Donovan smiles whimsically, leaning his head back against the cage and with a sigh took the microphone from Bodie Sullivan and stood up to speak just for a moment.]
DELANEY DONOVAN: “I don’t want to take away from Paige’s moment too much. So I just wanted to say thank you. Thank you to everyone who has supported me, it means everything. To everyone who has doubted me, it has motivated me so thank you too. I hope I’ve done the lot of you proud. Ah, fucks sake. I can’t bring meself to say it, Bodie.”
[After a few moments of fidgeting, Delaney slowly works his gloves free of his hands and offers them to the interviewer.]
DELANEY DONOVAN: “Would you mind taking those to the champ, Bodie? Think she deserves them as a token for beating me in the last fight of my career, eh?”
[Almost pleadingly, Delaney forces his gloves into Bodies hands along with the microphone, waving him away as he weaves his way out of the cage after a stern look from the ringside doctor. For the last time, Delaney Donovan exited the octagon of Union Grand Prix, to applause from the newly crowned champion along with the audience. Doing as he was told, Bodie brings Double D’s gloves over to Paige, who takes them with a nod as Bodie brings his mic up.]
BODIE SULLIVAN: “Ladies and gentlemen, the new Lightweight Champion–that’s a sentence we haven’t said in a long, long time! Paige, congratulations on an outstanding performance! Let’s start with the obvious, when you first signed with Union, there were a lot of questions, not the least of which was whether you’d be able to keep up with someone like Delaney if this fight ever materialized–you’re now 4-0, you just beat the longest reigning champion in company history, and you’re now the Lightweight Champion, how does all that feel?”
PAIGE HOLLOWAY: “First of all, everybody, give Delaney another hand, yea?”
[Paige lets the fans get their applause in for the now former champion, joining in with a little more applause herself. She cracks a little smile and nods, letting it hang in the air for a moment before speaking up.]
PAIGE HOLLOWAY: “To answer you, Bodie? It feels great. This was a tough, tough fight, Delaney’s a hell of a fighter, obviously I knew that before I ever stepped into the cage with him, but being in there with him was something else. He kept pushing forward, he kept coming no matter what I threw at him, and let’s not get it twisted–some of those shots I hit him with, especially in the later rounds? They’ve put down bigger guys than Delaney, he’s a tough guy. There’s a reason he was on top for so long, took down so many people, and to be the last fight of his career is a hell of a thing for me. I’ve said it a lot, I want to fight the best, and Delaney might just be the best fighter I’ve ever fought, so to get the win tonight…yea, it’s incredible.”
BODIE SULLIVAN: “How confident were you that you’d done enough to get the win?”
[Paige confidently nods, the smile on her face spreading even wider.]
PAIGE HOLLOWAY: “I was pretty sure I’d done enough, I thought I won every round, but…you never know with MMA judges, yea? We’ve seen some weird decisions, and I didn’t want to leave this up to fate. I wanted to get the finish, to really put a stamp on the fight, but…damn, he was tough to put down. I thought he was gonna go down in that last round, but he just kept coming forward, it was crazy.”
BODIE SULLIVAN: “You took a few big shots early in the fight, but you seemed to get a second wind as time went on. You kept pressing the action as the fight went on; how bad were you hurt early on, and was that the plan, to let Delaney get his work in and try to weather the early storm?”
PAIGE HOLLOWAY: “He definitely caught me early on, no doubt about it, but I knew that was going to be a possibility. Delaney’s shown he’s got great hands, so fighting him the way I fight was always going to be dangerous, especially early on. But the longer the fight went on, the better I felt, the more I felt like I was getting in a rhythm. And, yea, I’ve seen what happens when Delaney gets comfortable, so I knew I’d have to press the action, keep him moving, don’t let him settle in and get that confidence built up, or it could’ve been a short night. Luckily, it worked out, and I got my hand raised tonight.”
BODIE SULLIVAN: “There was a lot of talk about, if you pull off the win, whether Delaney would be looking at a rematch–he seemed to squash those rumors during the press conference, but stepping away puts them to bed for good, so with that not an option, is there anything you’re looking for going forward? When do you want to get back in the cage?”
[There’s just a hint of disappointment in Paige’s face as the rematch rumor seems to be brought up, then squashed, in the same breath. She shakes her head a little bit, unconsciously hefting the belt up onto her shoulder again.]
PAIGE HOLLOWAY: “To tell you the truth, Bodie, that’s the future–right now, my only plan is to celebrate this win, to enjoy myself for a minute, but when it comes time to start talking about my next fight? I’ll be ready whenever, for whoever. Whenever Union’s got someone lined up for me, I’m ready to go, no matter who, no matter where. I’d just prefer it be sooner rather than later, the long layoffs between fights are never fun, huh?”
BODIE SULLIVAN: “Well, we’ll certainly see what Dante and the Lightweight Division can provide for you– thank you for the time and enjoy this historic victory. Ladies and gentlemen, give it up for the NEW Lightweight Champion of the World, Paige Holloway!”
[The two shake hands before Bodie swiftly exits the octagon, allowing Paige her sole time to shine. She hoists the championship from her shoulder to above her head, and bellows out a booming battle cry. Holloway is then greeted with her coaches and they begin to take selfies and celebrate as the feed slowly fades out.]
