UGP 42: HOLLOWAY vs RODRIGUEZ

ROUND ONE: The opening round of this Middleweight bout was an absolute barn-burner with both fighters looking to make a statement. Hagen Lecktor came out swinging with a looping right hand that looked like it could destroy a brick wall. Tyler Cage countered with a few punches of his own, but Lecktor caught him with a crushing punch to the head that had Cage seeing stars. Lecktor then surprised Cage with a double overhooks and tried to control the fight with some clinching. Cage managed to push him away, but Lecktor was determined to take the fight to his favorite field, grappling. He secured a single collar tie, and the fighters were soon tied up in a clinch. After a lack of activity, the referee separated the fighters, and Cage and Lecktor engaged in a wild exchange of punches. Cage landed a few blows, but Lecktor was quick to counter with a great combo of his own. As the round progressed, Cage looked for angles with his jabs, but Lecktor was able to counter with some solid punches. Cage then tried to take Lecktor down, but Lecktor managed to retain his position with his clinching skills. The round ended with a bone-shattering straight right hand from Lecktor that left Cage with a big headache. Cage managed to land a few solid counter punches, but it was Lecktor who looked more in control as the horn signaled the end of the round.

Isaac Cohen’s Scorecard (Unofficial): 10-9 Lecktor

ROUND TWO: The fighters circled the center of the cage, with Lecktor attempting to take control by clinching with Cage. Cage pushed him away and kept the fight at striking range, but Lecktor kept trying to grapple. Cage was measuring Lecktor with his jab and landed a nice punch, followed by a hook to the body that hit Lecktor’s ribs hard. Lecktor responded with a looping right hand that staggered Cage, but Cage recovered and landed a nice uppercut. Lecktor then charged at Cage, throwing flurries left and right, and although many of the punches missed, the ones that landed were huge shots that rocked Cage. Lecktor tried to grapple, but Cage pushed him away and put distance between them. Both fighters engaged in a wild exchange of punches, but both missed terribly. Cage landed a vicious punch that rocked Lecktor again and followed up with a shovel hook and a right hand, showing some excellent combos. Lecktor faked a punch and showed some footwork, but he seemed tired and lowered his arms while breathing heavily. Just before the horn, Cage suddenly spun around and blasted Lecktor with a spinning elbow, leaving him something to remember as they prepared for the third and final round.

Isaac Cohen’s Scorecard (Unofficial): 10-9 Cage (19-19 Push)

ROUND THREE: Cage came out strong with a powerful hook to the body, but Lecktor was quick to counter with a body shot of his own. Cage got sloppy and Lecktor tried to take advantage, but Cage recovered with a body shot that Lecktor managed to dodge before catching him with a hard cross. Despite showing each other a ton of respect, Lecktor attempted a sweep single and managed to take Cage down to the mat with a slick takedown. He then moved through different positions on the ground, from closed guard to half guard to side mount, and finally achieving full mount over Cage. Cage tried to escape but Lecktor kept good control and remained in full mount, preventing him from rolling to his side. The referee eventually stood the fighters up due to lack of action, and they continued the fight on their feet. Cage landed some nice punches, but also showed some sloppy technique with a low kick. Lecktor surprised Cage with a double overhooks and managed to retain his position in the clinch, although Cage landed some big punches to his ribs. Both fighters struggled to break the clinch, with Lecktor eventually circling out and slipping free of Cage’s grip. As the buzzer sounded to mark the end of the round, it was clear that this had been a closely contested battle with both fighters showing great skill and determination.

Isaac Cohen’s Scorecard (Unofficial): 10-9 Lecktor (29-28 Lecktor)

JUDGES’ SCORECARDS
Tyler Cage  9 10 10: 29
Hagen Lecktor  10 9 9: 28

Tyler Cage  9 10 9: 28
Hagen Lecktor  10 9 10: 29

Tyler Cage  9 10 10: 29
Hagen Lecktor  10 9 9: 28

Winner: Tyler Cage by Split Decision

Statistics: Tyler Cage
Punches 22/33 (67%)
Kicks 1/6 (17%)
Clinch strikes 8/11 (73%)
Takedowns 0/0 (0%)
GnP strikes 0/0 (0%)
Submissions 0/0 (0%)
Clinch Attempts 0/0 (0%)
Time on the ground 107 s

Statistics: Hagen Lecktor
Punches 25/41 (61%)
Kicks 0/1 (0%)
Clinch strikes 0/0 (0%)
Takedowns 1/1 (100%)
GnP strikes 0/0 (0%)
Submissions 0/0 (0%)
Clinch Attempts 4/4 (100%)
Time on the ground 107 s

ROUND ONE: The two fighters came out swinging, with Woodard trying to use his footwork to avoid Briggs’ punches. However, Briggs was able to land a few powerful blows in their wild exchange, leaving Woodard with a bruised mouth and small lacerations. As the round progressed, Briggs continued to dominate with his boxing skills, landing several good body shots and jabs. Woodard seemed staggered and struggled to defend himself against Briggs’ relentless attack. After a devastating one-two combo from Briggs, Woodard stumbled and fell to the mat. Briggs continued to push the pace, launching several hard kicks to Woodard’s thigh and gesturing for him to stand back up. As Woodard climbed to his feet, he was a bloody mess, with cuts and bruises all over his face. Despite his valiant efforts, Woodard was unable to turn the tide of the fight, and a final overhand right from Briggs knocked him out cold.

Winner: Deebo Briggs by KO (Punch) at 2:52 Round 1

Statistics: Deebo Briggs
Punches 21/27 (78%)
Kicks 3/3 (100%)
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: Da’Vion Woodard
Punches 0/6 (0%)
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 36 s

ROUND ONE: The fight begins with a flurry of punches exchanged between Kaprice Gamble and José Meléndez. Meléndez is getting the best of the exchange, but Gamble is looking for angles as he throws some jabs that get countered by Meléndez’s punches. Gamble launches a furious low kick, but Meléndez blocks it and counterattacks with several good body shots. Gamble swings for the fences, but Meléndez backpedals and creates space. A left hook from Meléndez grazes the chin of Gamble, causing a small cut. Gamble tries to launch some punches, but Meléndez takes the best of a brief punching exchange. Meléndez sees an opportunity to counter Gamble when he misses a step, and lands a solid low kick that visibly pains Gamble. As the round progresses, Gamble becomes sloppier, giving Meléndez more opportunities to take advantage. Meléndez lands a bone-shattering straight left hand on Gamble, but Gamble misses a step again and Meléndez sees another opportunity to counter him. Meléndez runs to capitalize with a bunch of jabs and crosses. Despite Gamble’s attempts to fight back, Meléndez connects with a few punches and punishes Gamble’s ribs with a couple of hooks. Gamble manages to land a solid kick to the leg of Meléndez, but Meléndez checks it and swings back with a hard shot to Gamble’s face, causing a small cut above his right eye. The round ends with Meléndez trying a nice one-two combination, scoring a hit before the sound of the horn. 

Isaac Cohen’s Scorecard (Unofficial): 10-8 Meléndez

ROUND TWO: The second round continued to heat up. Kaprice Gamble and José Meléndez both came out swinging, exchanging a flurry of punches. Meléndez landed some solid shots, but Gamble fired back with a devastating low kick. However, Meléndez was able to dodge the kick and land a counter hook right on the mark! Gamble tried to recover with a looping right hand, but Meléndez was too quick, dancing out of the way and unleashing a barrage of jabs and crosses. Gamble was left with a small cut on his nose, but he wasn’t about to give up. He launched some tentative punches, but Meléndez took control and the fight soon found its way to the ground. Meléndez managed to take Gamble down with a single leg takedown and quickly moved into an advantageous position. He passed Gamble’s guard and worked his way into half guard, then side mount, and finally full mount. Gamble was in trouble, and Meléndez knew it. Meléndez began pounding Gamble with punches, opening up a nasty cut that left Gamble a bloody mess. But Gamble wasn’t done yet. He tried to escape, rolling to his side and trapping Meléndez in his guard, but Meléndez kept his cool and remained in full mount. He continued to unleash a barrage of strikes, and after a brief struggle, he caught Gamble’s arm in an armbar. Meléndez cranked on the arm, launching a couple of strikes over Gamble’s face before launching himself backwards with all his might. Gamble tapped out with a pained grin, and the crowd erupted into cheers as Meléndez was declared the winner.

Winner: José Meléndez by Submission (Armbar) at 3:06 Round 2

Statistics: José Meléndez
Punches 55/76 (72%)
Kicks 3/3 (100%)
Clinch strikes 0/0 (0%)
Takedowns 1/1 (100%)
GnP strikes 4/4 (100%)
Submissions 1/1 (100%)
Clinch Attempts 0/0 (0%)
Time on the ground 94 s

Statistics: Kaprice Gamble
Punches 1/31 (3%)
Kicks 0/9 (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 94 s

ROUND ONE: The featured prelim bout begins with Gibrelle Arroyo immediately pushing Lauren Moore against the fence and landing a barrage of punches. Moore tries to escape the clinch, but Arroyo continues to land punches with force. Moore finally shoots for a takedown and manages to take Arroyo down, but Arroyo quickly reverses and ends up in full mount. Moore tries to land some strikes, but Arroyo blocks and burrows her head down to protect herself. Moore manages to get back to closed guard, but Arroyo again reverses the position and takes Moore’s back. Moore tries to roll and escape, but Arroyo transitions to side control and then back to mount. Moore tries to hit Arroyo with hammer punches to the ribs, but Arroyo moves to protect herself. After several minutes of stagnant ground fighting, the referee stands the fighters up. On their feet, Moore lands a right hand that wobbles Arroyo, and Moore takes her down again. Moore ends up in Arroyo’s closed guard, but Arroyo manages to reverse the position and take mount again. Arroyo lands several punches to the face, but Moore uses her forearms as a shield while keeping her guard closed. The fight continues with Arroyo in mount, and Moore attempting to escape and improve her position. However, Arroyo maintains control and lands several punches to the ribs. The fight ends with Arroyo in full mount over Moore, having dominated the ground game throughout a majority of the round. 

Isaac Cohen’s Scorecard (Unofficial): 10-9 Arroyo

ROUND TWO: Both fighters came out swinging to start the second round. Lauren Moore throws a hook, but Gibrelle Arroyo evades and counters with a flurry of punches that stagger Moore. Moore takes the fight to the ground, but Arroyo is able to land in closed guard. Moore uses her wrestling skills to escape Arroyo’s closed guard, but Arroyo manages to reverse the position, ending up in full mount. Moore tries to launch some punches, but Arroyo blocks them effectively. The referee eventually stands up the fighters due to the lack of action on the ground. Both fighters continue the fight on their feet, with Moore landing some good leg kicks. Moore attempts to take Arroyo down again, and Arroyo loses her balance and goes to the ground, ending up in side mount. The crowd is on their feet as Moore tries to end the fight with her ground and pound, but Arroyo does just enough to keep the fight alive. Arroyo scrambles back to her feet, and both fighters continue the fight standing. The action is fast-paced, and both fighters are landing punches and kicks, but neither can gain a significant advantage. Arroyo ends the round with a strategic move, pushing Moore into a Thai clinch and ending the round in control.

Isaac Cohen’s Scorecard (Unofficial): 10-9 Moore (19-19 Push)

ROUND THREE: The two fighters engaged in a series of grappling maneuvers, with Arroyo pushing Moore against the fence in a clinch and Moore attempting a leg sweep. Arroyo managed to maintain her balance and move away from Moore, but Moore later surprised Arroyo with a takedown, putting her on the ground. Moore dominated on the ground with a series of ground and pound, including some precise elbows that left Arroyo with a sizable cut on her mouth and a swollen forehead. However, Arroyo managed to fight back with some weak punches, effectively halting Moore’s strikes. As the fight resumed standing, both fighters exchanged wild shots, with Arroyo stunning Moore with some nice shots. However, Moore managed to take the fight back to the ground with a single leg takedown, where she continued to punish Arroyo with some ground and pound. Despite Arroyo’s efforts to defend herself, Moore was able to pass guard and move to side mount, where she finished the round with a dominant position. With both fighters showing fatigue, the third round ended with Moore in control, connecting with some good shots.

Isaac Cohen’s Scorecard (Unofficial): 10-9 Moore (29-28 Moore)

JUDGES’ SCORECARDS
Lauren Moore  10 10 10: 30
Gibrelle Arroyo  9 9 8: 26

Lauren Moore  10 10 10: 30
Gibrelle Arroyo  9 9 8: 26

Lauren Moore  10 10 10: 30
Gibrelle Arroyo  9 9 8: 26

Winner: Lauren Moore by Unanimous Decision

Statistics: Lauren Moore
Punches 5/14 (36%)
Kicks 3/3 (100%)
Clinch strikes 0/7 (0%)
Takedowns 7/9 (78%)
GnP strikes 39/62 (63%)
Submissions 0/0 (0%)
Clinch Attempts 0/0 (0%)
Time on the ground 506 s

Statistics: Gibrelle Arroyo
Punches 14/18 (78%)
Kicks 1/2 (50%)
Clinch strikes 4/4 (100%)
Takedowns 0/0 (0%)
GnP strikes 0/7 (0%)
Submissions 0/0 (0%)
Clinch Attempts 1/1 (100%)
Time on the ground 506 s

[As the arena doors swing open, a feverish roar sweeps through the swarming crowd, already teetering on the brink of pandemonium. A blaze of crimson spotlights pierced through the dark, sweeping the building with a haunting glow. Amidst the flickering laser lights and blinding strobes, the entrance stage glimmered with a mysterious aura, a portal to a realm beyond the veil. The thunderous bass of the music reverberates through your bones, rattling you to your very core. The ground shook with every beat, heralding the arrival of chaos and destruction.]

[The once crisp and cool atmosphere of hours prior is now thick with the mugginess of over twenty-thousand strong, smoldering with the intoxicating aroma of booze and that sticky-sweet leaf. Pyrotechnic explosives detonate with ear-splitting force, drowning out the raucous cheers of the crowd, unleashing mayhem upon this hallowed ground.]

[And so the stage was set for a brutal crusade, a blood-soaked war of the strongest. The conquerors stood proud, confident of their victory, while the meek cowered in fear, doubts gnawing at their minds like ravenous beasts. The camera swept down to the frontlines, where two titans of the ring stood poised for battle. Bodie Sullivan and the former Union GP Middleweight Champion and Hall of Famer Byron McCall, dressed in impeccable attire, were ready. The camera zoomed in for a close-up, capturing every essence of their energy.]

BODIE SULLIVAN: “Ladies and gentlemen, we are live exclusively on the Battleground Network here at the  Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles, California and the octagon is officially open for business for UGP 42! Hello everyone and thank you for tuning in. I am Bodie Sullivan and tonight I am honored to have the former Caged Glory Imperial Champion, the former Union GP Middleweight Champion, and the Hall of Famer, “The Last Call” Byron McCall with me to call the action! Byron, it’s great seeing you my friend, welcome to the broadcast, it’s a pleasure to be in great company on a night like tonight.”

BYRON McCALL: “Bodie, it’s an honor to be here, tonight’s lineup is a straight up banger! We got two championship fights headlining the card as well as the two semifinal bouts in the Bantamweight Championship Grand Prix. I can’t wait to get the main card underway!”

BODIE SULLIVAN: “Let’s begin our breakdown right there. To kickoff the main card, Isabel Azevedo takes on Rachel Parsons in the first Grand Prix semifinal bout tonight. It’s a classic clash of styles, where Azevedo brings a world-class BJJ to the table against Parson’s lethal kickboxing. Parsons has been surgical throughout the tournament, earning her moniker “Razor” as she sliced and diced her way to reach this point.”

BYRON McCALL: “She likes to use her reach advantage and strike on the perimeter, which is something Izzy may struggle with as she likes to keep the fight close and use trips, takedowns, or pull guard to drag the fight down to the mat. Whoever can maximize their strengths to crumble their opponent’s weakness will more than likely move on to the finals and earn a title fight and a chance to win the whole damn thing!”

BODIE SULLIVAN: “The same can be said in our second bout on the main card, a Lightweight contest between the lethal striker Alistair McKay and the submission specialist Maddox Moon.”

BYRON McCALL: “This is a very pivotal matchup for both of these guys for different reasons and I’ll tell you why. Alistair has only faltered twice in his professional career, and both of those times were title fights — in his hometown no less! He’s coming into this fight tonight off of one of those losses, so he needs to rebound in a big way to stay in that top tier of the rankings. However, he hasn’t faced a guy like Maddox Moon before. Moon is in no way a striker by any means, but his grappling is damn near second to none. Moon has a chance to break through that glass ceiling and enter the title contention conversation. With a signature win over a guy like Alistair McKay, that’ll put him on the shortlist of next man up.”

BODIE SULLIVAN: “From there we have our fourth and final Middleweight contest for the evening, two top ranked contenders battle it out to inch their way towards a title fight. Venus Sagapolutele takes on the decorated Everest alum, Derrius Webb.”

BYRON McCALL: “I like what I see from both of these fighters. Venus Sagapolutele had a big debut win, but followed it up by getting mowed over by Noah Vanderkaay. This fight against Webb gives her the opportunity to prove that she belongs in the upper echelon of the division with a win. On the flip side, Derrius Webb has been a star in the making. As you said, a decorated fighter in Everest MMA, a three-time Welterweight Champion. This, without a doubt, is the biggest test Webb has faced since entering the Union ranks. A win here will stamp his name as a true title contender.”

BODIE SULLIVAN: “And speaking of title contenders, our featured undercard bout is a Heavyweight contest between former Union GP Heavyweight Champion Owen Barnes and former Everest MMA Heavyweight Champion Dax Levandrier. This is absolutely going to be a car crash of a contest. Both of these guys have frightening power behind their hands and with the 265 pound division wide open, a big performance here could thrust the winner into title talks.”

BYRON McCALL: “I agree that both of these guys are scary in their striking prowess, but to me, these guys are at two different trajectories right now. Barnes is coming off a loss to Gauge Lattimore, where he lost the title in a very one-sided fight. I think Barnes may need to stack a couple wins consecutively before he can be talked about as another title contender, but for Dax Levandrier, he’s hot right now. He just needs that one signature win against a big name like Barnes to catapult him into a title fight. So I think Dax is a win away, whereas Barnes could likely need two or three wins against some upcoming competitors.”

BODIE SULLIVAN: “That’s a fair assessment. So now, we journey into the championship block of the card. In the Co-Main Event, it’s our second Bantamweight Championship Grand Prix semifinals as the undisputed champion Gianna Howard takes on the surging Redd Lennox. This is a dream matchup for fight fans. Two lightning fast strikers will square off for a possible twenty-five minutes.”

BYRON McCALL: “Yeah, it doesn’t get much better than this, Bodie. The Ghost will look to continue her dominant reign and push closer to those all-time Union records, and we’ll get to see the biggest litmus test for Redd Lennox to date. Gianna has been in these situations plenty of times, but we’ll get to see how Redd Lennox handles the bright lights. I’ll tell Dante Reed right now to go ahead and get the checkbook out, because this one has bonus money written all over it.”

BODIE SULLIVAN: “No question about it, B. This has the makings to be an instant classic. And finally, our Main Event tonight features the Lightweight Champion Paige Holloway taking on the LA native, 2Face Rodríguez. Another banger of a bout where both fighters are not afraid to let the fists fly. 2Face Rodríguez has made it apparent here’s ready to make a statement, but he’d be foolish to completely dismiss the skill set and fight IQ of the future Hall of Famer, Paige Holloway.”

BYRON McCALL: “Two world class Muay Thai kickboxers. Holloway is no doubt a first ballot Hall of Famer as she continues to extend her career at the highest level. Rodríguez on the other hand, has a chance to make history and etch his name among the greats. He trains under the tutelage of Delaney Donovan at Kratos Combat Sports, the man Holloway beat for that very title. There’s that little added motivation of avenging that loss for his coach that hasn’t really been talked about much leading up to this fight. I’m sure he’s willing to do whatever it takes to bring that title back to the Kratos facilities.”

BODIE SULLIVAN: “And with that, folks, let’s turn the action over inside the octagon where our very own hype man, the Mouthpiece of MMA, Mike Dempsey, is standing at attention awaiting his cue. IT’S BOUT TIME!”

MIKE DEMPSEY: “Ladies and gentlemen, we are live exclusively on the Battleground Network here at the Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles, California for UGP 42: Holloway versus Rodriguez! And now, this opening contest is scheduled for three rounds and it is a Semifinals Bout in the Bantamweight Championship Grand Prix! Introducing first, fighting out of the blue corner, a Muay Thai Kickboxer holding a professional mixed martial arts record of seven wins, three losses. She stands 5’7”, and weighing in at 135 pounds. She is from Minneapolis, Minnesota, fighting out of Twin Cities MMA, presenting the former Everest MMA Strawweight Champion and the number three ranked Bantamweight Contender in the World, “Razor” Rachel Parsons!”

[As the camera zooms in on the corner, we see Rachel Parsons radiating a cool and collected vibe. Her confidence shines through her unwavering gaze, and she’s ready to show the world what she’s made of.]

BODIE SULLIVAN: “Rachel Parsons has been a fierce fighter in the Bantamweight Championship Grand Prix who has been making a lot of noise with her growing confidence. “Razor” has been slicing and dicing her opponents left and right, and she’s in this position because of her stellar performances as of late. In her last outing, she took down the undefeated French fighter Eugenie Bombelles — in Paris — talk about a power move! This girl is on fire!”

BYRON McCALL: “Absolutely, Bodie. But she’s not resting on her laurels, because she knows the stakes are high. To keep her hot streak going and secure her spot in the Grand Prix finals, Rachel’s going to have to be flawless in her approach. She may not tower over her opponent as far as height goes, but she’s got a killer reach advantage. So, if she can keep Izzy on the perimeter with her striking, she’ll force her to dive at the legs and take those desperate shots, and that’s where Rachel’s superior footwork and angles come in. She’s got the skills to make Izzy pay, but she’s going to have to be perfect.”

MIKE DEMPSEY: “And her opponent, fighting out of the red corner, a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Grappler holding a professional mixed martial arts record of seven wins, two losses. She stands 5’7”, and weighing in at 135 pounds. She is from Campinas, São Paulo, Brazil, fighting out of Nova União in Rio de Janeiro, presenting the former Union Grand Prix Bantamweight Title Challenger and the number two ranked Bantamweight Contender in the World, “Maravilha” Isabel Azevedo!”

[Isabel Azevedo is the epitome of cool, calm, and collected as she stares down her opponent. Nothing seems to shake her confidence, and her focus is razor-sharp. With a glint in her eye and a steady hand, she surveys the situation, ready to take on the challenge.]

BODIE SULLIVAN: “There’s a key factor that separates Isabel Azevedo from Rachel Parsons. Izzy has been a former Title Challenger, and she’s got that knowledge of what kind of magnitude a Union GP Title fight is like. There’s no question that she would love to get her “get back” from Gianna Howard, after falling short to her in her home country Brazil at UGP 36. Since that loss, she’s scored a dominant first round kneebar submission against Lauren Moore, and then gutted out a gritty split decision win over French native Ciaran Callahan, in Paris on the same night Parsons took down Bombelles.”

BYRON McCALL: “You know, they call her “Maravilha”, which translates to Marvel, and her coaches say that name is rooted in her ability to absorb knowledge like a sponge. She hasn’t forgotten that feeling of losing in a title fight. Her only other loss came from Tim Vu, and she righted that ship with a highlight reel knockout. Izzy needs to keep a sharp eye out for Parsons’ lightning speed striking. I expect to see her use some feints to get Parsons off balance, to overcommit on sprawling, or to outright freeze her up entirely. I can’t wait to see how this one plays out and find out who moves on to the Championship finals!”

[Azevedo and Parsons move forward as the bell signals the start of the first round. Parsons launches a superb haymaker that lands clean on Azevedo’s chin, sending shockwaves through the crowd. But Azevedo quickly recovers and circles around Parsons, attempting a sweep single. With impressive speed and precision, Azevedo catches Parsons’s far ankle and trips her to the mat with a slick takedown. Azevedo is now in closed guard over Parsons, trying to launch a few punches, but Parsons counters by achieving closed guard and blocking Azevedo’s strikes.]

BODIE SULLIVAN: “Solid takedown by Azevedo. She got a taste of Parsons’ power with that haymaker, and it didn’t take her long to decide to drag this fight to the mat.”

BYRON McCALL: “She ate a nasty shot, but in return she was able to get close enough to snatch the far ankle and deliver a textbook takedown.”

[As the two fighters continue to grapple, Parsons attempts to roll on the ground, but Azevedo uses her leg to keep her position on the ground. Parsons, however, manages to execute a nice reversal, putting her in full mount over Azevedo. But Azevedo isn’t fazed, and she uses her ground skills to escape, pushing Parsons’s knee away and rolling to get half guard. Azevedo then frees her leg and takes control of Parsons from the side mount, trapping her with her weight.]

BODIE SULLIVAN: “Oh my goodness! The way Izzy handles herself on the ground is simply incredible. It’s like she’s a fish in water. She can twist and turn in any position and still come out on top with ease.”

BYRON McCALL: “Absolutely! When Parsons got on top of her, it was like a lion pouncing on its prey, but Izzy didn’t even flinch. In a matter of seconds, she flipped the script, and Parsons was the one on her back, under her control.”

[Parsons attempts to switch to full guard, but Azevedo keeps control and remains in side mount. Rachel Parsons tries again to trap Azevedo in her guard, but Azevedo counters and returns to closed guard. However, due to a lack of activity, referee Lars Levy stands the fighters up, and they continue the fight on their feet. Azevedo then tries to take the fight to the ground with a single leg takedown, and Parsons falls to the ground, seemingly hurt by a hard blow to her midsection.]

BODIE SULLIVAN: “Whoa, Izzy is bringing the heat! The pressure and tempo is insane! Keep it up and keep the fight close. Those takedowns are the key to victory!”

BYRON McCALL: “Talk about fearless! You gotta love the grit and determination to take a fighter head-on like Parsons.”

[Azevedo is now in open guard over Parsons, but Parsons quickly adjusts and closes her guard. Azevedo gets sloppy, and Parsons tries to take advantage by landing a hammerfist to Azevedo’s ribs. However, Azevedo blocks the punches with her elbow and manages to escape to open guard again. Parsons keeps trying to close her guard around Azevedo, and eventually succeeds, putting Azevedo in closed guard once again. Parsons isn’t done yet, and she manages to execute another reversal, putting herself in full mount over Azevedo once more. Azevedo struggles and pushes her opponent anxiously, but Parsons manages to control the situation. Azevedo uses her ground skills to roll to her side and trap Parsons in her guard. Parsons, however, rolls her over and takes her back, putting herself in rear mount over Azevedo.]

BODIE SULLIVAN: “Whoa, did you see that move by Rachel Parsons? She catches Isabel Azevedo slippin’ and takes her back!”

BYRON McCALL: “But hold up, Izzy’s not flinching. Don’t count her out just yet! Even though she’s in a precarious situation, she’s calm, cool, and collected, and I have a feeling she’s got some tricks up her sleeve.”

[Things get worse for Azevedo as Parsons tries to get a hook in, with the possibility of getting the second hook making the situation even more precarious. But Azevedo uses her leg as leverage and manages to keep herself safe for now. Azevedo then uses her ground skills to free one of her legs while working on the ground, springs up, and gets back to her feet. The two fighters continue the fight standing.]

BODIE SULLIVAN: “That’s how it’s done, folks! B was right on the money with that call! Azevedo with some impressive wrist control, fighting off those hands and getting to her base. And just like that, she’s back on her feet!”

BYRON McCALL: “It’s a shame for Rachel Parsons. She put up a good fight, but all that struggling will take a toll and zap a lot of energy out of her.”

[Parsons spins around suddenly and connects with a backfist that lands flush on Azevedo’s chin. Parsons then goes for a looping right hand while Azevedo jumps back and jabs, staggering Parsons, and Azevedo capitalizes with a flurry of jabs and crosses. But Parsons isn’t easily deterred, and she launches a vicious uppercut that wobbles Azevedo long enough for her to wrap Azevedo up in a clinch. Azevedo tries to pummel her way out, but Parsons had other ideas. She pushed Azevedo up against the fence and secured a plum position, determined not to let her opponent get away. Azevedo struggled against the hold, but Parsons was relentless, refusing to let go.]

BODIE SULLIVAN: “Those heavy punches look to be the equalizer for Parsons, and now she’s taken the fight into her realm.”

BYRON McCALL: “You know what they say, Bodie — everybody has a plan until they get hit in the mouth! With Azevedo pinned up against the fence, this is where Parsons can really do some significant damage.”

[Eventually, Azevedo managed to break free, and the two fighters stepped back toward the center of the octagon, eyeing each other warily. Parsons struck first, landing a fierce inside leg kick on Azevedo’s thigh, but Azevedo was undaunted and scored another takedown just before the horn. Parsons went down hard, and on her way back to her corner, she was doubled over in pain, clutching her side.]

BODIE SULLIVAN: “And we’re off to the races! Round one is in the books, but this bout is far from over. A nail-biter, folks! The judges are gonna have a tough time scoring that one. Parsons looked strong, but did she take too much damage?”

BYRON McCALL: “Absolutely, Bodie. Parsons may have pulled ahead with her killer moves, but keep an eye on her as she heads back to her corner. Oof, she’s clutching her side. That could spell trouble for her in the upcoming rounds.”

BODIE SULLIVAN: “You’re right, B. It could be a simple case of getting the wind knocked out of her, or something more serious like a broken rib. And if it’s the latter, it could seriously impact her power shots.”

BYRON McCALL: “Let’s hope for the best, but prepare for the worst. This is shaping up to be an epic fight, folks!”

[The tension in the arena is high as Rachel Parsons and Isabel Azevedo close the distance to begin the second round. Parsons comes out strong, unleashing a lightning-fast one-two combination that catches Azevedo off guard. However, Azevedo is quick to counter, attempting a single leg takedown that sends Parsons crashing back down to the mat. A crushing blow to Parsons’s body leaves her writhing in pain, clutching her side. Azevedo seizes the opportunity and jumps into open guard over Parsons. Parsons, however, is not one to give up easily, and she manages to close her guard around Azevedo. Azevedo struggles to break free, but Parsons holds firm, and the two fighters engage in a fierce battle for control.]

BODIE SULLIVAN: “Oooh, yeah, B. There might be something going on with Parsons’ ribs. But hey, she’s still grinding it out on the mat!”

BYRON McCALL: “That’s a true fighter’s mentality. You fight through the pain and keep your eyes on the prize. She’s managing the fight right now, but she can’t let the fight slip away.”

[Parsons gains the upper hand, rolling into full mount over Azevedo. She looks poised to unleash some ground and pound, but Azevedo fights back with everything she’s got, pushing Parsons off balance and taking advantage of the misstep. Azevedo makes a quick roll, and just like that, she’s back in control. The two fighters trade positions several times, each one trying to gain the upper hand. Parsons manages to regain full mount, and Azevedo finds herself in serious trouble. Parsons dominates the fight, but Azevedo is no slouch, and she manages to turn the tables once again, trapping Parsons in her guard.]

BODIE SULLIVAN: “Gotta hand it to Parsons right now. Despite being in some serious pain, she’s going toe-to-toe with Azevedo on the ground.”

BYRON McCALL: “Absolutely, Bodie! Parsons is in a prime position to unleash some heavy ground and pound. She needs to find those openings and start throwing those bombs!”

[Azevedo is relentless, attempting a triangle from the bottom and then quickly switching to an armbar once Parsons takes the bait. Parsons struggles to free herself, but Azevedo’s hold is unbreakable. The crowd holds its breath as Parsons fights valiantly to escape, but in the end, she has no choice but to tap out, ending the fight in dramatic fashion.]

BODIE SULLIVAN: “And this fight is all over! Un…be…lievable! What looked like a troublesome situation for Isabel Azevedo turned out to be the finishing sequence of this fight!”

BYRON McCALL: “What did I tell you? Izzy kept her cool and showed us all that she’s got the chops to take on the best of them! I mean, what a comeback! She’s got ice in her veins, people! Now, she moves on to the finals where she will face the winner of tonight’s Co-Main Event between the Champion Gianna Howard and the Challenger Redd Lennox!”

[With the adrenaline pumping through her veins, Isabel Azevedo couldn’t resist the urge to bolt around the perimeter of the octagon in sheer disbelief. Her expression mirrored that of the electrified crowd, who were still reeling from the jaw-dropping victory. Meanwhile, the medical team rushed into the cage to tend to Parsons, assessing the damage and ensuring she was stable before making their exit. Once the all-clear was given, Parsons regained her footing, and both fighters converged at the center of the octagon for the official announcement of the winner.]

MIKE DEMPSEY: “Ladies and gentlemen, referee Lars Levy has called for a stop in this fight at two minutes nine seconds in the second round, declaring your winner by submission, “Maravilha” Isabel Azevedo!”

[The audience erupts in cheers as Azevedo is declared the winner. With respect and sportsmanship in mind, both fighters shared a handshake and a few kind words before parting ways. As the screen displayed a graphic featuring the fight’s statistics, the commentators gave a riveting summary of the bout.]

Winner: Isabel Azevedo by Submission (Triangle to Armbar) at 2:09 Round 2

Statistics: Isabel Azevedo
Punches 4/7 (57%)
Kicks 0/0 (0%)
Clinch strikes 0/0 (0%)
Takedowns 4/4 (100%)
GnP strikes 0/3 (0%)
Submissions 1/1 (100%)
Clinch Attempts 0/0 (0%)
Time on the ground 255 s

Statistics: Rachel Parsons
Punches 5/7 (71%)
Kicks 1/2 (50%)
Clinch strikes 0/1 (0%)
Takedowns 0/0 (0%)
GnP strikes 0/1 (0%)
Submissions 0/0 (0%)
Clinch Attempts 0/0 (0%)
Time on the ground 255 s

BODIE SULLIVAN: “We are back ladies and gentlemen from our break for station identification. Be sure to check out the monumental cross-promotional event between King’s Road Pro Wrestling and Pro Wrestling NEO — 100 Man Melee, streaming live exclusively on the Battleground Network! Before we move onto our next bout, we’ve gotta point out a man who’s here in the audience to support his 9th World Miami teammate, Eagle Mondalvi!”

BYRON McCALL: “It’s good to see the camaraderie within your camp wherever you go. Eagle made a huge splash in his Union debut, knocking off Robert Guilliman back at UGP 41. He’s scheduled to compete at Boss Fight XLII, which takes place in Miami. I’d imagine the 9th World Army will be out in full force for that night, you all definitely won’t want to miss it!”

MIKE DEMPSEY: “Ladies and gentlemen, the following contest is scheduled for three rounds in the Union Grand Prix Lightweight Division! Introducing first, fighting out of the blue corner, a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Grappler holding a professional mixed martial arts record of nine wins, three losses. He stands 5’10”, and weighing in at 155 pounds. He is from Happy Valley, Oregon, fighting out of Gold Blooded MMA, presenting the number five ranked Lightweight Contender in the World, Maddox Moon!”

[The tension in the arena is heavy as Maddox Moon paces back and forth anxiously in his corner. He’s doing his best to keep his cool, but you can sense the nerves getting to him. There’s an air of vulnerability about him that’s both endearing and yet concerning.]

BODIE SULLIVAN: “Maddox Moon is here looking to take the Lightweight division by storm! With a 2-0 record in Union, he’s proven himself to be a formidable contender. In his two fights, he snatched a third-round armbar submission victory over Alex Cox and, in his last outing, he squeaked out a majority decision win against newcomer Regis Pierre Paul. He has shown that he has the ability to push the pace in the later rounds, so he may look to dial back the tempo early, get a good feel of McKay’s tendencies, and then formulate an airtight approach for the win.”

BYRON McCALL: “Absolutely, Bodie! Moon’s got an arsenal of weapons, and he’s not afraid to use them. But he’s facing a tough nut to crack in McKay. This is going to be a big step up in competition! If Moon wants to come out victorious, he’s got to play it smart. He can’t just bullrush McKay, or his chin is going to get tested. Moon’s quick and elusive, and that’s his best approach. He’s got to tire McKay out with his footwork, then drag him down and suffocate him with his grappling and submission skills.”

MIKE DEMPSEY: “And his opponent, fighting out of the red corner, a Boxer holding a professional mixed martial arts record of ten wins, two losses. He stands 5’6”, and weighing in at 155 pounds. He is from Melbourne, Victoria, Australia, fighting out of Real Killas MMA, presenting the former Everest MMA Featherweight Champion, the former Union Grand Prix Lightweight Title Challenger, and the number two ranked Lightweight Contender in the World, “Artillery” Alistair McKay!”

[Alistair McKay stares down his opponent with absolute confidence. He’s not showing a hint of concern for anything. McKay’s laser-focused, his eyes locked on his target, and he’s ready to take on whatever comes his way.]

BODIE SULLIVAN: “Alistair McKay is back in action tonight and he’s hungry for a win after his most recent contest resulted in a loss to the 155 pound Champion Paige Holloway at UGP 40. He’s determined to wash away that bitter taste with a solid victory against one of the top contenders in the Lightweight Division. Now, McKay hasn’t faced anyone with Moon’s skill set before, but let’s not forget that he’s beaten the likes of Bellamy DeSilva and Silvio Gotti Jr., who are two high level, talented BJJ grapplers in their own right.”

BYRON McCALL: “That’s right, Bodie. McKay is known for his brutal power and devastating strikes, but he’s also got some sneaky underrated defensive skills up his sleeve. He’s very solid at stuffing takedowns and taking away his opponents’ ground game. Sure, we haven’t really seen it in live action yet, but we know he’s got the chops to neutralize Moon’s attacks if things start to go sideways. It’s going to be a nail-biter, and the biggest question is, can McKay hold out against Moon’s offense as the fight wears on?”

[The arena was alive with excitement as the referee, Jordan Ripley, signaled the start of the first round. Alistair McKay and Maddox Moon touched gloves in the center of the octagon, ready to put on a show for the cheering crowd. McKay wasted no time and immediately attempted to cut off Moon with a flurry of punches. The strikes landed hard and Moon was forced to reel back, his left eye already showing signs of swelling. A small cut was also visible in the same area. McKay fired an unorthodox punch that hit Moon’s torso with precision. The two fighters engaged in a solid combination, with most of the punches hitting air. McKay continued to measure his opponent with a jab, showing great accuracy in his strikes.]

BODIE SULLIVAN: “And there’s the overpowering pressure we’ve all known to love from Alistair McKay.”

BYRON McCALL: “He’s not just looking for angles, he’s relentlessly working behind that jab, constantly tagging Moon with precision and not letting him get comfortable for a second.”

[Suddenly, the fight erupted into a wild exchange of punches. Both fighters connected with some powerful blows, and it seemed like the fight could end at any moment with one lucky punch. Moon’s forehead showed signs of bruising and a small cut, but he remained determined, countering with punches of his own. McKay threw a looping right hand as Moon jumped back and jabbed. The punch hit its mark, but Moon stayed focused as he launched a few punches in retaliation. It was a great exchange of blows, and the crowd was on their feet, cheering the fighters on.]

BODIE SULLIVAN: “Hang on tight, folks! We’ve got ourselves a full-blown firefight happening right here! Maddox Moon is absolutely fearless, he’s throwing caution to the wind and ready to exchange some serious blows!”

BYRON McCALL: “He’s taking some heavy hits, but he’s not backing down! Alistair McKay is getting just as good as he’s giving!”

[McKay then unleashed a rapid series of punches, taking Moon from one end of the cage to the other. It was an awesome display of skill and power, and the crowd was going wild. Moon finally crumpled to the mat, and McKay moved in to finish him off. The referee quickly jumped in and stopped the fight, saving Moon from further damage.]

BODIE SULLIVAN: “And this fight is all over! Maddox Moon just got sent to the land of wind and ghosts!”

BYRON McCALL: “This is what happens when you try to fight in the phone booth with Bombs Away McKay! He completely dominated this fight and sent Maddox packing! Big win for McKay here in LA!”

[The crowd explodes into cheers as McKay celebrates with his cornermen, basking in the glory of his triumph. You can feel the adrenaline as the spectators revel in the raw display of power and skill. However, amidst the celebration, the Ringside Physicians rush into the octagon to attend to the unconscious Maddox Moon. The medical team springs into action, tending to Moon with urgency and care. After a few tense moments, Moon is finally able to stand on his own two feet, and the medical team files out of the cage to allow both fighters to meet back in the center of the octagon for the official call.] 

MIKE DEMPSEY: “Ladies and gentlemen, referee Jordan Ripley has called for a stop in this fight at one minute twenty-one seconds in the very first round, declaring your winner by knockout, “Artillery” Alistair McKay!”

[The audience erupts in applause, their cheers ringing through the arena as McKay is declared the victor. The two fighters exchange a respectful handshake before going their separate ways, the mutual respect between them was evident, even in the aftermath of such a brutal fight. The screen flickers to life with a graphic displaying the fight’s statistics, capturing the essence of the battle in a single image. The commentators chime in, giving a summary of the match and analyzing the fighters’ performances with keen insight and expertise.]

Winner: Alistair McKay by KO (Punches) at 1:21 Round 1

Statistics: Alistair McKay
Punches 21/27 (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: Maddox Moon
Punches 5/7 (71%)
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 to the broadcast, ladies and gentlemen. Be sure to keep up with all of the latest news and action for DRIP. It’s obvious that platform has proven its worth in short order, as Redd Lennox broke into the big leagues on that show and has rode that momentum all the way to a Co-Main Event Title fight here tonight. And another fighter who was featured on DRIP 10 and scored a contract to compete in Everest MMA SZN 4 is that woman right there, Katya Belinskaya, who’s here enjoying some live action in LA.”

BYRON McCALL: “One thing I can say about Katya Belinskaya is that I admire her heart and determination. This will be her second stint with the developmental promotion. Her first go round didn’t fare too well and was ultimately cut, but she honed her skills on the regional circuit and got another crack at proving herself on a big stage. I can’t wait to watch the new season and see who can become the next big thing.”

MIKE DEMPSEY: “Ladies and gentlemen, the following contest is scheduled for three rounds in the Union Grand Prix Middleweight Division! Introducing first, fighting out of the blue corner, a Kickboxer holding a professional mixed martial arts record of thirteen wins, four losses. He stands 6’4”, and weighing in at 185 pounds. He is from Brooklyn, New York, fighting out of the Hit Squad in Palmdale, California, presenting the former three-time Everest MMA Welterweight Champion, and the number six ranked Middleweight Contender in the World, Derrius “Spyda” Webb!”

[Derrius Webb steps out from his corner, radiating confidence as he raises his fist high into the air. The crowd’s roar is deafening and their energy is contagious as they show their support for this incredible fighter. Derrius can’t help but grin, feeling the love and adrenaline surging through his veins. He’s ready to give it his all, knowing he’s got the crowd behind him every step of the way.]

BODIE SULLIVAN: “Now in our fourth and final Middleweight bout, Derrius Webb looks to continue his momentum and ride the hype train to a third consecutive victory in as many fights in his Union tenure. Spyda has been steadily climbing the rankings and tonight he has a chance to possibly break into the top five with a win here tonight.”

BYRON McCALL: “Webb has been lethal with his kickboxing. He uses his massive frame to the fullest to keep opponents on the outside perimeter where he can pick them apart while keeping them out of their reach. On top of his striking, he’s got really good cardio, and he’s tough as hell.”

MIKE DEMPSEY: “And his opponent, fighting out of the red corner, a Kickboxer holding a professional mixed martial arts record of thirteen wins, two losses. She stands 6’ even, and weighing in at 185 pounds. She is from Los Angeles, California, fighting out of PRODIGY 206, presenting the number four ranked Middleweight Contender in the World, Venus “Fly Trap” Sagapolutele!”

[Venus Sagapolutele exudes a fierce determination that can be felt by everyone in the arena. Her face is contorted into a menacing scowl, and she paces back and forth in her corner with a laser-like focus. The crowd is on the edge of their seats, but Venus remains unfazed, locked in on her opponent. It’s clear that she’s not here to play games – she’s here to fight, and she means business.]

BODIE SULLIVAN: “We have Venus Sagapolutele stepping into the ring tonight, coming off a tough loss against Noah Vanderkaay. She’s got a fire in her belly and is looking for redemption against one of the most highly-touted prospects in the game.”

BYRON McCALL: “If Venus Sagapolutele can pick off Spyda tonight, she’ll rightfully keep her name inside the top five. However, in order to do that, she needs to dictate the pace. She’s a solid kickboxer as well, but she’ll need to figure out how to get in her range without taking too many shots from Webb.”

[Referee Jack Gibbs steps back as the bell rings, signaling the start of the first round. Derrius Webb comes out strong, unleashing a barrage of combinations on Venus Sagapolutele. Venus’ corner looks concerned as she struggles to defend against the onslaught. Webb moves fluidly, throwing a furious low kick that lands hard on Venus’ thigh. Undeterred, Venus retaliates with a flurry of punches, but Webb slips away, evading danger. Webb keeps his opponent guessing with well-placed jabs, but Venus manages to counter with some punches of her own. However, it’s Webb who lands a great combo on Venus, leaving a small cut on her chin. But Venus isn’t backing off as she studies her opponent carefully, looking for a hole in his defense.]

BODIE SULLIVAN: “Derrius Webb is a force to be reckoned with. He’s doing a great job throwing punches in bunches.”

BYRON McCALL: “That’s the quickness he brings to the game. If he spots even the slightest opening, he’s not holding back. He’s not gonna just throw one, he’s bringing a six pack of punches at you!”

[Venus takes a moment to study her opponent, looking for an opening in his defense. Before she can make a move, Webb capitalizes on a gap and launches a big hook, but Venus steps back just in time, avoiding the blow. In an attempt to gain some advantage, Venus launches a low kick, but her technique is lacking, and it only grazes Webb’s thigh. Not one to be outdone, Webb retaliates with a bone-shattering hook to the body, which Venus manages to stop with her ribs. Venus isn’t content to just stand there and eat shots and she lands a powerful straight right hand that leaves Webb stepping out to shake it off.]

BODIE SULLIVAN: “Nice counter right hand, Derrius just got his bell ring a bit.”

BYRON McCALL: “If you’re gonna take a hit like that, you’ve got to hit back just as hard. It’s the only way to keep yourself in the fight!”

[Just as it seems like Venus is gaining control of the octagon space, Webb lands a devastating high kick, which connects with Venus’ mouth, causing it to swell instantly. Venus is hurt and stumbles on the heels of her feet, leaving herself open for more attacks from Webb. Venus attempts to shoot, hoping to take Webb down to the ground, but Webb hops back and delivers a powerful kick to her head. Venus is on autopilot, swinging again out of desperation, but Webb ducks under and catches her with a counter straight. Venus fumbles to the mat and the ref has seen enough and pulls Webb off of her, signaling the end of the fight. Venus looks dazed and confused, with several battle wounds plastered across her face, as she tries to contest the stoppage, but the visual of her struggling to stand upright proves it to be a smart stoppage by the official.]

BODIE SULLIVAN: “It is all over! Derrius Webb connects with the chin spinner and referee Jack Gibbs was quick to jump in and call it. Spyda with the impressive finish to make it three in a row now!”

BYRON McCALL: “Absolutely, Bodie! Jack Gibbs made the right call there. Venus Sagapolutele may have the heart of a warrior, but when you’re out of it like that and taking unnecessary damage, it’s the ref’s job to protect you from yourself. It’s all part of the game.”

[As Webb triumphantly embraces his cornermen, the audience erupts into deafening cheers. The medical team quickly enters the octagon to attend to Venus. After a brief examination, she is able to regain her footing and the physicians exit the cage, allowing both fighters to gather in the center of the octagon for the official announcement of the winner.]

MIKE DEMPSEY: “Ladies and gentlemen, referee Jack Gibbs has called for a stop in this fight at two minutes forty seconds in the very first round, declaring your winner by technical knockout, Derrius “Spyda” Webb!”

[The audience erupts in applause as Webb is declared the winner. The two fighters exchange a respectful handshake before going their separate ways. The screen displays a graphic with the fight’s statistics and the commentators give a summary of the match.]

Winner: Derrius Webb by TKO (Punches) at 2:40 Round 1

Statistics: Venus Sagapolutele
Punches 0/5 (0%)
Kicks 1/1 (100%)
Clinch strikes 1/1 (100%)
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: Derrius Webb
Punches 11/14 (79%)
Kicks 3/3 (100%)
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 from the break, folks. Before we head into our Heavyweight contest, we gotta give a big shout out to the number two ranked Middleweight Reggie James here tonight! Reggie has been outright phenomenal, plain and simple. Originally he competed in the now defunct Cruiserweight Division as an undersized fighter, but still held his own.”

BYRON McCALL: “He’s got a win over the current Middleweight Champ Lovelie Saint-Cyr, and his only loss comes from the current HEAVYWEIGHT Champion, Gauge Lattimore, when they competed in the Triple C Grand Prix. He’ll be facing Travis Decker in the Co-Main Event at Boss Fight XLII in Miami, and if he scores a win over the former Champ, he’ll certainly punch his ticket as a bonafide title contender. I’ll say this, I’m glad I never had to cross paths with this guy!”

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 Boxer holding a professional mixed martial arts record of twelve wins, two losses. He stands 6’3”, and weighing in at 265 pounds. He is from Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada, fighting out of RAW GRAPS, presenting the former two-time Everest MMA Heavyweight Champion, and the number five ranked Heavyweight Contender in the World, “The Death Dealer” Dax Levandrier!”

[Dax Levandrier looks like he’s been itching for this fight! The confidence he exudes is electric as he staunchly raises his fists into the air. You can feel the adrenaline pumping through the arena with each passing second.]

BODIE SULLIVAN: “Dax Levandrier has been a truly refreshing addition to the Heavyweight Division. I mean, this guy is a force of nature! His tenacity and drive have captured the hearts of fans all around the world. And now, he’s taking on the former champ, Owen Barnes. It’s a clash of titans, and I’m telling you, it’s going to be epic!”

BYRON McCALL: “You know Bodie, despite the fact that Dax entered the world of mixed martial arts at a late stage, but he’s certainly made up for lost time. The buzz around him is exceptional. And if he can pull off a win tonight, there’s no doubt in my mind that he’ll be in line for a shot at the title. The stakes couldn’t be higher!”

MIKE DEMPSEY: “And his opponent, fighting out of the red corner, a Kickboxer holding a professional mixed martial arts record of eight wins, two losses. He stands 6’8”, and weighing in at 265 pounds. He is from Saint Paul, Minnesota, fighting out of Twin Cities MMA, presenting the former Union Grand Prix Heavyweight Champion, and the number one ranked Heavyweight Contender in the World, “The Viper” Owen Barnes!”

[Owen Barnes starts smacking himself in the face, body, and legs, each blow igniting a fire within him. The sound of his own fists pounding against his flesh echoes throughout the room, drowning out the noise of the spectators. It’s a sight to behold – a true mountain of a man preparing himself for battle.]

BODIE SULLIVAN: “Owen Barnes is like a starved wild animal right now, hungry for redemption. He got mopped by Gauge Lattimore in a 5-round drubbing at UGP 40, losing his title in the process. But don’t forget, this guy was a wrecking ball before his unfortunate defeat. Last year, he had to withdraw from the Heavyweight Grand Prix because of an injury. Some say he rushed back too soon to unify the interim and undisputed championships, but he’s determined to prove them wrong and climb back up to the top.”

BYRON McCALL: “That’s right, Bodie. But it won’t be easy for him. After such a crushing defeat, Barnes needs to make a convincing comeback. He needs to stack up some victories to prove he’s still got what it takes to be a champ. And guess what? He’s starting right here, right now, against what many believe to be the future of the 265 pound division. This is going to be a car crash of a ride, folks, so strap in and get ready!”

[The cage is set, the crowd is buzzing with excitement, and the referee, Dusty Whittaker, steps forward to signal the start of the fight. Dax and Barnes begin to circle around the center of the cage, each sizing up the other with a cool, calculating stare. Suddenly, Barnes launches a barrage of punches, but Dax is too quick and ducks out of the way, evading the attack with ease. Barnes misses a step and Dax sees his opportunity to counter, throwing solid jabs that Barnes struggles to defend against.]

BODIE SULLIVAN: “Barnes was primed to unload but Dax shows some good elusiveness avoiding the heavy combination.”

BYRON McCALL: “Dax is not only elusive but also aware of his surroundings, slipping the rush with some killer jabs of his own.”

[Dax unloads another solid combination of punches, but Barnes is quick to recover and attempts to gain the upper hand. In a flurry of punches that leave Dax reeling, Barnes shows off his impressive power and skill, landing several punishing blows that leave Dax severely dazed. Showing some sneaky fast footwork, Barnes fakes a punch and moves aside, waiting for his moment to strike. He throws a looping right hand that lands squarely on Dax’s chin, stopping him in his tracks and leaving his left eye beginning to swell.]

BODIE SULLIVAN: “Dax Levandrier just got rocked, B! He needs to step back and regroup or this fight is going to end quickly.”

BYRON McCALL:“Absolutely, Bodie. Owen Barnes is not someone you want to give any openings to. If you give him time to think, he will definitely make you pay for it.”

BODIE SULLIVAN: “Levandrier seems to be a bit dazed, but he’s not out of it yet. He’s trying to gather himself, but Barnes is not giving him any breathing room.”

BYRON McCALL: “Barnes is being very aggressive and is not letting Dax get any momentum. Dax needs to find a way to create some space and counter.”

[As Barnes charges forward, throwing lefts and rights in a frenzy, Dax struggles to defend himself against the onslaught of blows. Though not all of them connect, the ones that do are devastating, leaving Dax rocked and his chin bruised from the punishment. Barnes is looking for the killshot now and throws a looping right hand that lands with a sickening thud on Dax’s chin, sending him crashing to the ground in a heap. It’s clear that Barnes has landed the knockout blow he’s been waiting for, and Dax is down for the count.]

BODIE SULLIVAN: “And it is all over! The crowd is going wild, Owen Barnes has put down Dax Levandrier in stunning fashion inside the first round!”

BYRON McCALL: “Wow, what a finish! Owen Barnes just delivered a thunderous right hand that sent Dax Levandrier to the mat! You could feel the impact of that punch all the way up in the nosebleed section.”

BODIE SULLIVAN: “No doubt about it, B! Owen Barnes came out swinging from the opening bell and it looks like he caught Dax Levandrier off guard. That’s why he’s one of the most feared fighters in the game.”

BYRON McCALL: “You said it, Bodie! Those hands come with some fatal consequences. Owen Barnes has just reminded the masses that he is still a top contender with that performance.”

[The arena erupts with deafening cheers as Owen Barnes strides stoically towards his corner, the air thick with anticipation and excitement. Suddenly, chaos breaks out as the Ringside Physicians rush into the octagon to tend to Dax, who is sprawled on the mat. The medical team works with lightning speed, and after a few tense moments, Dax manages to stand up, much to the relief of the spectators. The team then swiftly exits the cage, leaving both fighters to reconvene in the center of the octagon for the official call.]

MIKE DEMPSEY: “Ladies and gentlemen, referee Dusty Whittaker has called for a stop in this fight at one minute twenty-two seconds in the very first round, declaring your winner by knockout, “The Viper” Owen Barnes!”

[The audience roars in applause as Barnes is declared the winner. The two fighters exchange a respectful handshake before going their separate ways. The screen displays a graphic with the fight’s statistics and the commentators give a summary of the match.]

Winner: Owen Barnes by KO (Punch) at 1:22 Round 1

Statistics: Owen Barnes
Punches 10/19 (53%)
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: Dax Levandrier
Punches 4/10 (40%)
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’re back folks and readying ourselves for the Co-Main Event! Before we shift to the action, be sure to keep a close eye for the next Ryūjin FC card, RFC 3: Duality. The latest news is that contracts are being finalized and a major announcement will be coming soon as far as dates and lineups. One thing we can count on though is that man right there will be there, California native Xabier Belazco!”

BYRON McCALL: “He has had a career resurgence in Ryūjin FC and I love to see it. He’s always been a fan favorite, no matter the outcome of his fights. He’s always leaving it all out there, and the fans appreciate a fighter who’s willing to do that time and time again. I wouldn’t be surprised if he can stack another win in Ryūjin, he may be in talks of a title fight.”

♫
G-G-GOODNESS GRACIOUS, I MIGHT GIVE A FUCK ON A RARE OCCASION
I WOULD STEAL MY SAUCE TOO, ‘CAUSE IT’S OUTRAGEOUS
DO WHATCHU GONNA DO, YOU DON’T GOTTA EXPLAIN IT
I JUST BOOTED UP SO I’M CONCENTRATED
♫

[As the music of “Rage” by Rico Nasty starts blaring through the speakers, the camera captures the tunnel where Redd Lennox’s corner stands tall and proud in a tight formation. The anticipation in the air is intoxicating as the cameras zoom in on the number one ranked Bantamweight fighter in the world, Redd Lennox. She kneels down, hugging her two daughters tightly, before rising to her feet and bouncing up and down with fierce determination. With a nod of her head towards her coach, Pluggz, Redd Lennox steps forward, ready to take on the fight of her life. The crowd erupts in deafening cheers, electrified by the sight of Union GP’s newest star in the making. Redd’s intense focus is broken for just a moment as she allows herself to smile, taking in the love and energy from the crowd. With each step she takes towards the cage, Redd Lennox exudes confidence and strength, her eyes locked onto the prize that awaits her. The adrenaline surges through her veins, propelling her forward with each step.]

BODIE SULLIVAN: “Making her way to the octagon now is one of the fastest rising contenders we have seen in a long time. Redd Lennox has been making waves like a hurricane, and she’s ready to take the octagon by storm! Just a few months ago, not many had even heard of Redd, but now she’s in the Co-Main Event, fighting for a championship in Los Angeles!”

BYRON McCALL: “It’s crazy how fast life comes at you, Bodie. But I’ll tell you one thing, Redd Lennox is a straight-up beast! From battling it out on DRIP to earn a play-in spot, to dominating her way through the Bantamweight Grand Prix, this fighter doesn’t know the meaning of slowing down. Her skills are off the charts. She’s a force to be reckoned with, and her confidence is through the roof. I’m telling you, this girl was born for the big stage, and she’s going to give the GOAT a run for her money tonight!”

[As walks down the aisle, she extends her hand out to tag a few fans’ hands as a show of appreciation. With a sudden halt at the end of the ramp, she turns around and takes a deep breath, her eyes glistening with a fierce determination. In a swift motion, Redd strips off her warm ups, revealing her chiseled physique underneath. Her team of coaches swarms around her, giving her one lat pep talk. The cutman applies a thick layer of Vaseline to her face and checks that her protective equipment is up to par. With a nod of approval, Redd confidently makes her way up the steel cage steps, her heart racing with adrenaline. As she reaches the top, she pauses, turning around to face the screaming crowd. With an enthusiastic smile, she blows a kiss to her adoring fans, sending them into a frenzy. The moment is electric as she enters the cage, bouncing on her toes as she makes her way to her corner. Raising her fists high in the air, Redd sends a clear message to her opponent – she’s not to be underestimated. With a quick word to her coaches, she prepares for battle as she awaits for her opponent.]

♫
ON A DARK DESERT HIGHWAY
COOL WIND IN MY HAIR
WARM SMELL OF COLITAS
RISING UP THROUGH THE AIR
♫

[Rather than her usual song, “Hotel California” starts blasting through the arena; and, in fact, it’s an altogether different experience from the normal entrance for the reigning Bantamweight Champion, as the lights stay on, warm, tropical-hued house lights circling the audience. Light blues, purples, oranges, and yellows, all accompanied by an unusually raucous reception long before Gianna ever shows her face. Gianna’s corner staff make their way through the curtain first, but before the Ghost makes her own entrance, the lights cut to black; the swirling house lights slow, then fade, one by one…until a much different, yet much more familiar guitar riff hits and Gianna herself pushes through the curtain.]

♫
WHEN DARKNESS FALLS, MAY IT BE
THAT WE SHOULD SEE THE LIGHT
WHEN REAPER CALLS, MAY IT BE
THAT WE WALK STRAIGHT AND RIGHT
♫

[Despite the song shifting to her usual entrance theme of Metallica’s “Now That We’re Dead,” Gianna still seems to be grooving to “Hotel California,” shoulders rolling way, way, WAY off-beat to her actual entrance theme; there’s no aggression in the Ghost’s entrance, there’s no pace, she takes her sweet time even getting past the initial curtain. Once she’s finally on her way to the cage, though, she bumps fists with her corner before heading down the aisle.]

BODIE SULLIVAN: “Ladies and gentlemen, feast your eyes on the Bantamweight Champion Gianna Howard, a fighter who oozes confidence and charisma like no other. This woman knows how to put on a show, both inside and outside the octagon. Her skills are second to none, leaving her opponents struggling to keep up with her unique style. It’s no surprise she’s been named the top pound-for-pound fighter for quite some time now. Tonight, with a win, she’ll be tying the Union GP all-time record for the longest winning streak. And with just one more win, she’ll be tying the all-time consecutive title defenses record. ”

BYRON McCALL: “Gianna is a true boss both in and out of the octagon. She doesn’t need to stir up controversy on social media to get people talking. Her skills speak for themselves, and that’s why she’s such a respected figure in this sport. But rumors are flying that she might be looking for a new challenge, possibly even moving up in weight class. And if she is able to run through the Grand Prix, who knows what doors might open for her? But for now, she’s focused on the task at hand. She’s not taking her opponent lightly. Redd might be new to the company, but she’s a real contender. Gianna knows that, and she’s going to give it her all tonight. It’s the same tenacity everytime she steps through those cage doors.”

[Having seen that The Ghost is never in a particular hurry, both Union staff and THRONE teammates more or less shepherd the Bantamweight Champion to the cage, and eventually she’s at the inspection point; she unstraps the Bantamweight Championship, clinching it in one fist and thrusting it into the air before passing it and her warm up suit off to one of her teammates. She embraces each member of her corner before turning to the cageside official to get inspected. Once she’s given the OK, it’s a quick three steps up to cageside, then she more or less saunters her way into the center of the cage, extending her arms out wide before backing her way into her corner.]

MIKE DEMPSEY: “Ladies and gentlemen, it’s time for the Co-Main Event of the evening! Sanctioned by the California State Athletic Commission, our three judges scoring this contest at cageside are Jonathan Mills, Sergio Turner, and Mike Duffy, and when the action begins, our referee in charge in the octagon is Darrell Stevens. AND NOW, this is the moment you’ve all been waiting for! Live from the sold out Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles, streaming exclusively on the Battleground Network…

IT’S TIME!

MIKE DEMPSEY: “… The following contest is scheduled for five rounds, it is a Semifinals Bout in the Bantamweight Championship Grand Prix and it is for the UNDISPUTED Union Grand Prix Bantamweight Championship! Introducing first, fighting out of the blue corner, a Boxer holding a professional mixed martial arts record of twelve wins, one loss. She stands 5’4”, and weighing in at 135 pounds. She is from Jacksonville, Florida, fighting out of 9th World Miami — presenting the number one ranked Bantamweight Contender in the World, Redd “The Little Heathen” Lennox!”

[Redd Lennox, in her corner, is a sight to behold as she raises her fists. The intensity in her eyes and the way she carries herself sends a message to her opponent that she’s here to win. You can feel the excitement building as the crowd roars in anticipation, and Redd Lennox is more than ready to give them the show they’ve been waiting for.]

MIKE DEMPSEY: “And her opponent, fighting out of the red corner, a Kickboxer, holding a professional mixed martial arts record of thirteen wins, with two losses. She stands 5’6”, and weighed in at 134.75 pounds. She is from Phoenix, Arizona, fighting out of THRONE MMA in Las Vegas, Nevada — presenting, the number one ranked Pound-for-Pound Fighter in the World, and THE REIGNING, DEFENDING, UNDISPUTED Union Grand Prix Bantamweight Champion of the World! “The Ghost” Gianna Howard!”

[Gianna Howard pounds her chest three times, almost sending shockwaves through the audience. With each beat, her primal authority and confidence are on full display, igniting a fiery passion within her that cannot be contained. As she spreads her arms wide, it’s as if she’s embracing every person in the crowd, inviting them to join her in the exhilarating journey that’s about to unfold.]

BODIE SULLIVAN: “Alright folks, history is up for grabs!”

[The tension in the arena is heavy as the referee steps into the center of the cage. All eyes are fixed on him as he motions for the two fighters to meet. With the announcer standing behind him, holding the microphone with a tight grip, the referee takes one last moment to give a final pep talk.]

DARRELL STEVENS: “Alright fighters, we’ve gone through the rules in the back. You know what’s at stake here. This is your chance to show the world what you’re made of. Protect yourself at all times, follow my instructions, touch gloves if you wish to, and let’s do it.”

[Both fighters seem ready to burst with adrenaline. Without much hesitation, they touch gloves and quickly backpedal to their respective corners. As they settle into their stances, Darrell Stevens checks off with each fighter one last time, ensuring they are both ready for the challenge that lies ahead.]

[Darrell Stevens takes his position, signals the start of the bout and with much anticipation, Gianna Howard and Redd Lennox step into the center of the octagon. The fighters waste no time, both charging forward with intensity. Howard throws a looping right hand, but Lennox jumps back and counters with a quick jab. The exchange is fruitless, leaving both fighters eager for more. Lennox decides to take the initiative, launching a few tentative punches, but Howard counters effectively. Lennox takes a deep breath and closes the distance, looking for action. She goes for another looping right hand, but Howard is ready this time, jumping back and countering with a few punches of her own. The two exchange blows wildly, with Lennox throwing a few more punches, but Howard is deflecting most of them.]

BODIE SULLIVAN: “Wow, these two fighters are really going after it! Lennox seems to be taking the initiative, but Howard is holding her own with some impressive counters.”

BYRON McCALL: “Yeah Bodie, Lennox is trying to close the distance and throw those big looping punches, but Howard is doing a great job of deflecting them and countering with her own shots. Lennox needs to be careful not to tire herself out with those wild swings.”

[Lennox throws a looping left hand, but Howard dodges it with ease. Undeterred, Lennox follows up with a crisp uppercut and a hard jab, but Howard manages to deflect the blows again. Lennox continues to move forward, determined to find an opening. She surprises Howard with double overhooks, pushing her opponent forward and attempting to grapple. The fighters clinch, and Lennox starts launching a flurry of hooks and body shots, pummeling Howard with a relentless rain of blows. Howard stumbles backward, trying to shrug her way out of the clinch, but Lennox is determined to work from this position. ]

BODIE SULLIVAN: “Wow, Lennox is really putting the pressure on Howard now! She’s been looking for an opening and it seems like she’s found it.”

BYRON McCALL: “Howard is on the back foot now, she needs to find a way to create some space and regain her composure.”

[Lennox doesn’t want to break the clinch and continues to clamp down on Howard, who responds with several cracking punches to Lennox’s ribs. Lennox blocks the majority of them, but Howard manages to find a window and launch a series of hard punches. Lennox postures up, launching another series of punches back, hitting Howard hard and leaving her wondering how to escape. Howard manages to duck under and circle out of the corner. They engage in a wild exchange of punches, but both fighters are missing. Howard manages to find an opening, landing a stinging kick to Lennox’s thigh. They continue to exchange blows, but with little steam behind them.]

BODIE SULLIVAN: “It looks like Lennox is trying to control the fight with the clinch, but Howard is not backing down.”

BYRON McCALL: “Howard is not backing down though, and she’s still able to find openings to launch her own attacks.”

[Howard is measuring Lennox with her jab, showing good accuracy. Lennox manages to dodge most of the punches, but Howard finds an opening with a vicious middle kick. Lennox dodges it, moving backward, but Howard isn’t done yet. She spins around and launches a spinning back kick, hitting Lennox hard in the ribs. Lennox winces in pain, her ribs taking a beating. Lennox tries to recover, surprising Howard with a double overhooks, but Howard responds with a brilliant combination, landing a few punches that Lennox manages to mostly dodge. The two continue to exchange wildly, landing blows but with little significance. Howard throws a lazy kick, and Lennox takes advantage, dodging it and firing an uppercut that almost puts Howard into orbit just before the horn. Both fighters retreat to their corners, panting and sweating, but very much still in the fight.]

BODIE SULLIVAN: “Wow, what a first round! Lennox seemed to have the upper hand with her clinch game, but Howard’s striking was really impressive.”

BYRON McCALL: “Absolutely, Bodie. Howard’s kicks are something to watch out for, too. She landed some good kicks on Lennox, and that spinning back kick was just nasty. Lennox is tough, though, and she kept coming forward, not afraid to exchange blows.”

BODIE SULLIVAN: “Both fighters look a bit winded, but they’re still game. I’m curious how long they can keep up this pace. This is going to be an interesting second round. Who do you think has the edge?”

BYRON McCALL:“It’s hard to say, Bodie. Howard’s striking is on point, but Lennox has shown that she’s not afraid to get in close and mix it up. It’s really anyone’s game at this point.”

[Lennox wastes no time and charges towards Howard, aiming to clinch, and she succeeds. The fighters are locked in a tight clinch as Howard tries to shake her off but Lennox holds on tight. Lennox sees an opportunity and takes a shot at Howard, throwing a flurry of punches! Howard is trapped and can’t seem to get away. Lennox, sensing Howard’s frustration, continues to hammer away.]

BODIE SULLIVAN: “Lennox is throwing everything she’s got! Howard is trapped and can’t seem to get away.”

BYRON McCALL: “Howard is getting frustrated, you can see it in her face. Lennox is just relentless, hammering away at her.”

[After a stalemate, the referee steps in to separate the fighters, but the action doesn’t stop there. Lennox launches a hook to the body, but Howard defends well, with timely moves and impressive defense. As the fighters size each other up, Lennox goes for a looping right hand while Howard jumps back and jabs. Lennox seems to be caught off guard and is staggered. Howard senses an opportunity and moves in with a barrage of punches, trying to take advantage of Lennox’s momentary weakness.]

BODIE SULLIVAN: “Lennox is in trouble now. Howard’s punches are coming in fast and furious.”

BYRON McCALL: “Lennox seemed to have lost her footing there for a second and it cost her.”

[Lennox is not one to back down, though. She charges forward and clinches with Howard once again. As Howard stumbles backward, Lennox lands a few punches, one of which lands right on Howard’s jaw! Howard tries to shrug her way out of the clinch, but Lennox holds on tight. She pushes off of Howard and launches a flurry of hooks and body shots, making Howard stumble backwards once again. After another stalemate, the referee intervenes to break the clinch. Howard takes the opportunity to launch a hook to the body, and Lennox takes the blow in the ribs. Howard launches a follow up high kick that glances off Lennox, and Lennox responds with another looping right hand. Howard seems to be in trouble again, but she manages to block most of Lennox’s offense.]

BODIE SULLIVAN: “Lennox is still in control though. She’s landing more shots and keeping the pressure on Howard.”

BYRON McCALL: “That right hand from Lennox was a clean shot to Howard’s jaw. She’s going to be feeling that one for a while. But Howard isn’t backing down either. That body shot and high kick combo was impressive.”

[Lennox secures a double underhooks and pushes her opponent forward. Lennox takes a break to catch her breath while holding onto Howard. The referee sees a lack of activity and separates the fighters once again. Lennox is not giving up though. She shoves herself over Howard and secures a single collar tie. Howard tries to duck under and move away, but Lennox won’t let her go. She continues to work from the clinch, launching a series of punches that Howard struggles to defend against. Howard circles out and slips free of Lennox’s grip, impressively getting out of that position, but the referee steps in at the sound of the horn, signaling the end of the round.]

BODIE SULLIVAN: “Ten minutes down, a possible fifteen to go! Lennox came out swinging and managed to control Howard with the clinch and landed some significant shots!”

BYRON McCALL: “Definitely, but Howard showed some impressive defense. She weathered the storm and landed some of her own shots too. This is turning out to be a really exciting fight!”

BODIE SULLIVAN: “Howard had Lennox on the ropes there for a bit, but Lennox is just so tough. She took those shots and came back swinging. This is going to be a battle until the end.”

BYRON McCALL: “Absolutely, both of these fighters are showing their skills and determination. I can’t wait to see what happens in the next round!”

[The third round sees Gianna Howard taking the lead with some well-executed moves, but it’s not long before Redd Lennox comes back with a vengeance. As Howard throws a body kick that is blocked, Lennox counters with a shovel hook that, unfortunately for her, goes nowhere. But then, out of nowhere, Lennox lands a superb haymaker! Lennox seizes the opportunity and tries to grapple, pushing her opponent forward with a double underhook. Howard tries to shrug her way out of the clinch, but Lennox is determined to work from there. She pummels through and manages to retain her position, launching some bone-breaking punches to Howard’s ribs. You can see the pain in Howard’s eyes as Lennox delivers blow after blow.]

BODIE SULLIVAN: “That haymaker from Lennox really caught Howard off guard!”

BYRON McCALL: “Lennox is just relentless with those punches to the ribs. Howard needs to find a way to break free and create some space.”

[Howard tries to keep the fight at striking range and pushes Lennox away, but Lennox doesn’t want to break the clinch. Lennox throws a flurry of punches and Howard just can’t get away. The fighters separate briefly after a stalemate before Lennox lands a piercing straight right hand. Howard studies her opponent, searching for a weakness in her defense, while Lennox tries to close the range and grapple. She secures a single collar tie and pushes forward, but Howard manages to circle out of the corner. As the two fighters grapple again, Lennox lands a few punches to Howard’s ribs, causing her some intense pain. Howard tries to shrug her way out of the clinch, but Lennox is determined. She launches a flurry of punches, and Howard tries to block most of them before ducking under and circling out of the corner.]

BODIE SULLIVAN: “Howard looks like she’s struggling to get away from Lennox’s flurry of punches. She needs to keep the fight at striking range to have a chance.”

BYRON McCALL: “Howard did a good job blocking most of those punches, but she needs to do more than just defend. She needs to start letting it rip!”

[Lennox surprises Howard with a double overhook once again, while Howard goes to the body. But Lennox showcases some brilliant dirty boxing, punishing Howard’s ribs with every punch. Howard tries to defend her side, but the pain is becoming too much. Lennox pushes Howard off and starts launching a flurry of hooks and body shots, causing Howard to stumble backwards. Lennox doesn’t let up and chases her down, continuing the rain of blows. Howard covers her head as Lennox struggles to land. Howard isn’t out of the fight just yet. She blocks Lennox’s punches to her ribs and attempts a sweep single, but Lennox shrugs off the takedown attempt. At that point, the horn sounds, signaling the end of the round, the fighters go to their corners, exhausted but determined to win this fight.]

BODIE SULLIVAN: “Three rounds in the can now! Howard took some serious punishment from Lennox’s punches to the ribs. She seems to be in a lot of pain right now.”

BYRON McCALL: “No doubt about it, Bodie. Lennox’s dirty boxing is really paying off, and she’s showing no signs of slowing down. But Howard isn’t out of the fight yet. She’s still looking for openings in Lennox’s defense and trying to keep the fight at striking range.”

BODIE SULLIVAN: “Lennox’s grappling is really proving to be a challenge for Howard. She’s been struggling to break out of the clinch and avoid those devastating punches to the ribs.”

BYRON McCALL: “Howard needs to find a way to keep the fight at range if she wants to have a chance at winning. She’s got some solid striking skills, but she needs to keep her distance from Lennox’s grappling.”

BODIE SULLIVAN: “Lennox is definitely dominating in this fight, but Howard isn’t giving up. She’s still fighting hard and trying to find a way to turn things around. It’s going to be interesting to see what happens as we head into Championship Rounds!”

[The fourth round begins with an explosive exchange of punches between Redd Lennox and Gianna Howard. Both fighters are connecting with massive shots, and it’s evident that the fight could end soon if either of them lands a lucky punch. Redd Lennox fakes a move and moves laterally, while Gianna Howard launches a body shot. Lennox dodges the attack and counters with a hard cross, showcasing her excellent fighting skills.]

BODIE SULLIVAN: “What a way to start the round! These two fighters are absolutely going for it!”

BYRON McCALL: “They’re both landing some huge shots, but Redd Lennox seems to be getting the better of these exchanges. Howard is still dangerous with that power in her hands.”

[As the fight progresses, the fighters engage in a clinch, with Lennox trying to grapple with Howard. Gianna Howard pushes Lennox away, trying to keep the fight at striking range, but Lennox doesn’t want to break the clinch. The fighters continue locked in a clinch, and Howard tries to escape by shrugging her way out, but Lennox is relentless in her pursuit. She manages to retain her position and launches a flurry of punches and body shots, which Howard struggles to block. Redd Lennox seems fresh, with plenty of gas left in her tank. She continues to push Howard forward, not allowing her to break the clinch. Lennox launches several hard punches to Howard’s ribs, which show signs of damage. Gianna Howard just can’t get away!]

BODIE SULLIVAN: “Lennox won’t let her go! Look at those punches to the body! Howard is in trouble here.”

BYRON McCALL: “Lennox looks like she could keep this up all night. Howard needs to break free and find some space to breathe.”

[Redd Lennox continuously tries to control Gianna Howard in the clinch and uses her dirty boxing tactics to gain the upper hand. She pushes the back of Howard’s head with one hand and punches her hard with the other, causing significant pain to Howard. As the round nears its end, Lennox launches a few more punches, with one swing hitting Howard’s jaw with force. The horn sounds, signaling the end of the round, and Darrell Stevens tells the fighters to head back to their corners.]

BODIE SULLIVAN: “Four rounds down, one more to go! These two fighters are giving it their all, but Redd Lennox seems to have the upper hand right now with her relentless clinch work.”

BYRON McCALL: “Absolutely, Bodie. Lennox is using every trick in the book to control Howard in the clinch, and she’s doing a great job of it. Howard needs to find a way to break free and get back to striking range if she wants to turn this fight around.”

BODIE SULLIVAN: “But it’s not just the clinch where Lennox is dominating. Her striking is on point, and she’s causing significant damage to Howard’s body with those punches to the ribs.”

BYRON McCALL:“Definitely. Howard is tough, but you can see that those punches are taking a toll on her. She needs to find a way to avoid those shots and start looking for that Hail Mary flash knockout if she wants to win this fight because it’s very likely she’s down on the scorecards. Let’s see what adjustments these fighters make heading into the final round.”

[Redd Lennox’s determination is unmistakable as she zeroes in on Howard and unleashes a powerful right hand that sends her opponent reeling. The impact is so intense that Howard is left dazed. Lennox moves forward, hungry for more action, and swiftly demonstrates her grappling skills by putting Howard in a double overhook. The fighters are locked in a clinch, and Lennox takes advantage of the opportunity to deliver punishing punches to Howard’s ribs. The pain etched on Howard’s face is a clear indication of the damage being inflicted.]

BODIE SULLIVAN: “Redd Lennox is really taking control of this fight! That right hand was devastating and now she’s showing off her grappling skills with that double overhook. Lennox is just too dominant in close quarters”

BYRON McCALL: “Howard is definitely feeling the effects of those punches to the ribs. You can see her wincing in pain.”

[As Howard attempts to push Lennox away and break free, Lennox refuses to let go and continues grappling. In a flurry of hooks and body shots, Lennox relentlessly pummels Howard, causing her to stumble backwards. But Lennox isn’t done yet, and she relentlessly continues to rain blows on her opponent. The two break off from the clinch and exchange wildly. After a brief pause in the action, Lennox hesitates for a moment, almost as if giving Howard the chance to take control. But just as Howard thinks she may have a chance, Lennox seizes her with a double underhook and postures up to deliver a series of crushing punches. Howard is left reeling, wondering how to escape the relentless assault.]

BODIE SULLIVAN: “Lennox is really taking it to Howard, her punches are landing with precision. Howard can’t seem to shake Lennox off.”

BYRON McCALL: “It’s like Lennox is a machine, relentless and determined to win. It’s not looking good for Howard.”

[Despite Howard’s attempts to duck and move away, Lennox refuses to let go, and pushes Howard forward and keeps the clinch tight. In this position, Lennox continues to unleash fracturing punches to Howard’s ribs. Howard tries to shrug off the assault, but Lennox’s position is too strong, and she retains her grip. As the fight progresses, the blood from the many slashes and gashes from Howard’s face continues to stain the mat, and her vision may be compromised due to the cuts. Nevertheless, Lennox doesn’t let up, throwing punch after punch in a frenzied onslaught that leaves Howard battered and bleeding. In the final moments of the fight, Lennox launches a final flurry of punches, with each blow hitting harder than the last. As the final horn sounds, signaling the end of the fight, Lennox cannot help but gleam with excitement, fully believing she has dethroned the champion.]

BODIE SULLIVAN: “Wow, Redd Lennox really dominated that fight! Howard took some serious punishment and couldn’t seem to find a way out of that clinch.”

BYRON McCALL: “Yeah, Lennox’s grappling skills were really on display tonight. Howard just couldn’t break free from her tight grip, and that left her vulnerable to those punishing shots to the ribs.”

BODIE SULLIVAN: “And let’s not forget Lennox’s striking. She was relentless with those hooks and body shots, and Howard just couldn’t seem to defend herself.”

BYRON McCALL: “Howard was definitely tough, but Lennox just kept coming and coming. And those final moments of the fight were just brutal. Lennox unleashed everything she had, and Howard had nothing left to give.”

BODIE SULLIVAN: “I think we have a new champion in Redd Lennox. What a performance!”

BYRON McCALL: “Absolutely no doubt about it. Lennox was just too much for Howard to handle tonight. Congratulations to her on a well-deserved victory.”

[The uproar of the cheering crowd almost drowns out all other sounds. Redd Lennox stands with her coaches, her grin so wide it stretches from ear to ear. She’s just given it her all, pouring every ounce of energy and determination into the fight. Despite the physical toll it’s taken on her, the adrenaline rush keeps her going. Gianna Howard, however, isn’t faring as well. On the other side of the octagon, a team of doctors and a cutman tend to the several nasty cuts on her face. It’s a brutal sport, and the injuries are a testament to the intensity of the bout. Finally, the Ringside Physicians exit the cage, and the fighters return to the center of the octagon for the official announcement of the decision. The tension is substantial as the audience holds its breath, waiting to hear the outcome.]

MIKE DEMPSEY: “Ladies and gentlemen, after five rounds, we go to the judges’ scorecards for a decision. All three judges score this contest 50-45, declaring your winner by unanimous decision, AAAANNND….. NEEEEW Undisputed Union Grand Prix Bantamweight Champion of the World, Redd “The Little Heathen” Lennox!”

[The arena erupts with an explosive mix of shock and awe as Redd Lennox emerges victorious. With tears streaming down her face, Redd can hardly contain the intensity of emotions coursing through her body. Despite her confidence going into the fight, the magnitude of the moment has left her reeling. Her coach, Kennard Rozier, approaches her with the championship belt in hand. He wraps it tightly around her waist as the crowd continues to cheer. Redd savors the moment, feeling the weight of the belt against her skin, a physical reminder of all the hard work and dedication she has poured into her craft.]

[As the two competitors share a final, cordial embrace, a mutual admiration evident in their eyes, Redd can’t help but feel a sense of awe at the sheer spectacle of the moment. She knows that this is just the beginning of her journey, and that there will be many more challenges ahead. But for now, she revels in the glory of the moment, basking in the adulation of the crowd.]

JUDGE JONATHAN MILLS
Gianna Howard  9 9 9 9 9: 45
Redd Lennox  10 10 10 10 10: 50

JUDGE SERGIO TURNER
Gianna Howard  9 9 9 9 9: 45
Redd Lennox  10 10 10 10 10: 50

JUDGE MIKE DUFFY
Gianna Howard  9 9 9 9 9: 45
Redd Lennox  10 10 10 10 10: 50

Winner: Redd Lennox by Unanimous Decision

Statistics: Gianna Howard
Punches 26/49 (53%)
Kicks 3/6 (50%)
Clinch strikes 0/3 (0%)
Takedowns 0/1 (0%)
GnP strikes 0/0 (0%)
Submissions 0/0 (0%)
Clinch Attempts 0/0 (0%)
Time on the ground 0 s

Statistics: Redd Lennox
Punches 28/54 (52%)
Kicks 0/0 (0%)
Clinch strikes 205/348 (59%)
Takedowns 0/0 (0%)
GnP strikes 0/0 (0%)
Submissions 0/0 (0%)
Clinch Attempts 10/15 (67%)
Time on the ground 0 s

[As the dust begins to settle and the roar of the crowd gradually dies down, Bodie Sullivan steps into the octagon. With a microphone firmly gripped in his hand, he surveys the scene before him, taking in the sheer intensity of the moment. Redd Lennox, sweat still glistening on her brow, stands at the center of the octagon, her eyes flickering with a mixture of exhaustion and triumph. Bodie approaches her slowly, aware of the weight of his words and the significance of this moment in her career. As he draws closer, he can feel the sense of anticipation that hangs over the crowd. Bodie raises the microphone to his lips.]

BODIE SULLIVAN: “Ladies and gentlemen, I’m here with the winner AND NEW Bantamweight Champion, Redd Lennox. Redd, congratulations on a phenomenal performance tonight. What is going through your mind right now? You’ve just become the new Bantamweight Champion by beating the number one pound-for-pound fighter in the world!”

REDD LENNOX: “Um… I’m blessed, Bodie. What can I say? I trained very hard to come out here and leave as the champion. I wasn’t expecting it to be like this but hey, it’s kinda what I’ve been doing. I thought we would come out here and give everyone in attendance a five round thriller. I was prepared for that. I wanted to try and break her in any way, but to come out and dethrone the best fighter for a while like I did tonight says a lot.”

BODIE SULLIVAN: “The Grand Prix has been keeping everyone involved busy. Have you been able to process making it this far at all, especially now becoming the new champion?”

REDD LENNOX: “It’s fair to say that this has been very verrrrrry fast bro. Like very fast, just a couple months ago I was nursing an injury when the guys made their way into Union through DRIP. I was supposed to be on that card man. It sucked that I couldn’t be there, but just like that I got good news and bad news. With Rocco getting locked up and me getting this chance it just felt like this was supposed to be. I’ve felt like I’ve been one of the best fighters not in Union GP for a while, but now I can say I am UNION GRAND PRIX BANTAMWEIGHT CHAMPION!!! This is mines now!“

BODIE SULLIVAN: “How were you feeling coming into a fight of this magnitude in only your third Union GP fight?”

REDD LENNOX: “I really had a stomach full of butterflies, man. It was like all week I felt good. I felt ready, but as soon as I stepped into the cage I felt that nervousness. My heart was really jumping. So I just envisioned myself winning and that calmed me down a little bit.”

BODIE SULLIVAN: “What was the thought process as the fight went into the later rounds?”

REDD LENNOX: “She’s very tough. Very very tough. I think by now everyone knows that I have some of the most powerful hands in this division if not the most power. I kinda feel like I hit harder than anyone in Union and Gianna took everything I had to give her and wouldn’t go down for a second. She showed why she was the champion and the fighter to beat in all of mixed martial arts for so long. We know she’ll be back. This is just another chapter in her book. So with that, one more time y’all, give it up for a GOAT, Gianna Howard!”

BODIE SULLIVAN: “You came into this fight with your A-game intact. Was it your initial game plan to really focus on the clinch work?”

REDD LENNOX: “When you go up against someone with Gianna’s caliber, especially on the feet, you understand that you’re gonna take some shots. We just wanted to neutralize how many I took and we felt like the best way was to keep her up against the fence and pick away at her. Nobody’s seen me fight this way yet, so I kind of figured that she’d be looking for me to just stand and bang, of course I did that a little but the biggest goal was to make her grapple and it worked. It’s not like she’s looking for the takedown, she’s worrying about getting pummeled on the fence ya know, and with these hands you don’t really want that too much. “

BODIE SULLIVAN: “Now… the job’s not finished, though. You advance to the finals and will face Isabel Azevedo, someone who has tasted moments like this but has come up short. Do you have any initial thoughts on your next opponent?”

REDD LENNOX: “Izzy is gonna bring it all. I’ve shocked the world and maybe she can do it too, nahhh the finals has become bigger than this because it’ll be my first defense and that’s the most important thing, making sure I can live up to the heights of a Gianna and put my stamp down as a UGP goat. So, Izzy, be very prepared, because what you saw tonight was only the beginning.” 

BODIE SULLIVAN: “We’ll definitely be looking forward to your next fight. It’s been an absolute honor to call your fights and watch your astonishing growth. Congratulations again on a historic win tonight and we’ll see you soon. Ladies and Gentlemen, give it up for the NEW Bantamweight Champion, Redd Lennox!”

[After a quick handshake, Bodie wastes no time and swiftly exits the octagon, leaving Redd with her coaches and daughters in the octagon to soak in the crowd’s reaction. The adrenaline rush is still pumping through her veins as she looks around at the sea of fans going wild. She climbs the fence and soaks it all in. As the broadcast gradually fades out for a final commercial break, the excitement in the arena continues to resonate, leaving everyone on the edge of their seats, eagerly awaiting the thrilling closing fight of the night.]

BODIE SULLIVAN: “Ladies and gentlemen, we are back from our final commercial break and we are set to gear up for our Main Event of the evening. Catching the action live, here in attendance is the three-time Champ, “The Shooter” Roscoe Robinson!”

BYRON McCALL: “Roscoe has somewhat taken on a head coaching role at Hit Squad as of late, and the results have been tremendous. They have been one of the best training facilities in the world and show no signs of stopping. However, the rumors have been swirling that he has been in some preliminary talks about getting back in the cage, but it’s all a matter of finding the right opponent. Roscoe has accomplished everything there is to do in this sport, and I think now it’s all about the big money fights. There’s certainly a laundry list of names who would love the opportunity to headline a card with Shooter that would make sense, but all hinges on timing. Either way, fight fans across the world are eager to see him compete again.”

♫
CALIFORNIA LOVE!
♫

[As “California Love” by Tupac starts to bump through the arena’s speakers, the crowd explodes into a frenzy, the energy in the air is undeniable. Every person in the audience is eagerly waiting for their hometown hero to make his grand entrance. Suddenly, the lights go dim, and all eyes are drawn to the entrance ramp, where a spotlight illuminates the silhouette of a figure emerging from backstage. It’s 2Face Rodríguez, and he’s ready for war.]

[With a sly smirk on his face, 2Face strides towards the cage, his every step accompanied by the deafening cheers of his adoring fans. The LA native looks more focused and confident than ever before, and he’s straight vibing to the hometown welcome. He’s always been known for his menacing aura, but tonight, it’s as if he’s been transformed into a superhero. As he draws closer to the cage, 2Face pauses for a moment, closes his eyes, and takes a deep breath. The electricity in the air is contagious, and he’s soaking it up like a sponge. With the crowd still chanting his name, he raises his arms in triumph, urging them to get even louder.]

[For a moment, time seems to stand still as 2Face revels in the moment. He knows he’s in his element, and nothing can stop him now. The crowd’s thunderous applause fills the arena, and he can’t help but feel grateful for their unwavering support. It’s clear that tonight, he’s not just fighting for himself – he’s fighting for his fans, his city, and everything he holds dear.]

BODIE SULLIVAN: “Listen to this crowd, B! This is a man of the people tonight! 2Face Rodríguez looks like he’s ready to run through a brick wall and he’s definitely got the momentum to do so! Rodríguez is riding a three-fight win streak in as many fights in Union. 2Face is a ruthless brawler, not one to back down, and has the cardio to go into deep waters. He trains at the newly established Kratos Combat Sports, under the tutelage of Hall of Fame Middleweight and Lightweight Champion Delaney Donovan.”

BYRON McCALL: “Yeah Bodie, and you can tell by the way Rodríguez fights. He brings to the table an exceptional Muay Thai style that works well in any situation. He has quickly risen to the top of the ranks in the Lightweight division as a result of his explosive power and lightning-fast strikes. But it’s not just their physical prowess that sets him apart. He also possesses an unwavering spirit and an unbreakable will, pushing himself to the limit and never giving up in the face of adversity. He’s got that killer instinct that I feel like could give the champ some problems tonight.”

[Rodríguez strides confidently towards the cageside inspection area, his heart pounding with anticipation. He knows what’s at stake, and he’s ready to give it his all. As he strips down to his trunks, he looks around at his cornermen, their faces a mix of determination and pride. But one figure stands out from the rest: Delaney Donovan, former Middleweight and Lightweight Champion, a Hall of Famer. Donovan gives Rodríguez a firm hug, his eyes conveying a message of respect and admiration. The inspection goes smoothly, and Rodríguez is given the green light. He takes a deep breath and looks up to the heavens, silently dedicating this fight to someone special. Then, with a sudden burst of energy, he races up the steps and into the cage. The roar of the crowd is deafening, but Rodríguez is in the zone. He’s focused, he’s determined, and he’s ready to take on anyone who stands in his way. As he settles into his corner, one of his coaches pours some water on the mat, a small gesture that helps him gain a little extra grip. Rodríguez wipes his feet, his eyes fixed on the main entrance stage.]

♫
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
♫

[Despite usually being a fan-favorite, Paige’s music is met with a hell of a lot of jeering as she gets ready to compete against one of the hometown boys; long before the Lightweight Champion ever breaks the curtain, the majority of the LA fans are chanting for 2Face–but there’s a small pocket of fans waving the Australian flag and cheering for the THRONE rep. As the music intensifies and a spotlight shines on the ramp, Paige pushes through the curtain, flanked on all sides by her cornermen, one of whom holds the Union GP title above his head as she nods, absorbing the hostile reception she receives; unlike her teammate earlier, there’s no antics, there’s no act, the Australian is laser focused as she marches down the aisle, eyes fixed on the cage and her challenger for the evening.]

BODIE SULLIVAN: “And with the final walkout of the night, here she is, the undisputed Union GP Lightweight Champion, Paige Holloway! Ever since she stepped foot inside a Union cage, we all felt like it was a matter of time before she became a champion. However, I don’t think many could claim it would be as quick as it was, given her two year sabbatical from the sport. But she shocked the world when she beat Delaney Donovan in a five round war that earned Fight of the Year Honors, which will live on as a historical moment in this company. Tonight she takes on Donovan’s protege in his hometown. Will that play any factor in her approach?”

BYRON McCALL: “Absolutely not. Ram-Paige embodies the spirit of the sport. She’s got this insane level of discipline and determination that makes her immune to all the outside noise. And let me tell you, Holloway is one fierce fighter with a strategic mind that’s amplified by her impeccable technique and precision. When the pressure’s on, she’s always ready to rise to the occasion and leave it all out there in the cage!”

[Once she’s at the cageside inspection area, the Lightweight Champion sheds her warmup suit, passing it off to one of her coaches. Each of her cornermen clasp hands with her, then give her an embrace, the last of whom keeps hold of her for an extra second, seemingly giving the Champion some last minute encouragement. Paige nods, then turns to the inspection spot, taking a deep breath and closing her eyes as she’s given the once-over. Once cleared, she quick-steps up the stairs and into the cage, shuffling right over to her corner.]

MIKE DEMPSEY: “Ladies and gentlemen, it’s time for the Main Event of the evening! Sanctioned by the California State Athletic Commission, our three judges scoring this contest at cageside are Jonathan Mills, Sergio Turner, and Mike Duffy, and when the action begins, our referee in charge in the octagon is Colin Davenport. AND NOW, this is the moment you’ve all been waiting for! Live from the sold out Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles, streaming exclusively on the Battleground Network…”

IT’S TIME!

MIKE DEMPSEY: “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 twelve wins, one loss. He stands 5’9”, and weighing in at 155 pounds. He is from Los Angeles, California, fighting out of Kratos Combat Sports — presenting the number ten ranked Pound-for-Pound Fighter in the World, and the number one ranked Lightweight Contender in the World, 2Face Rodríguez!”

[2Face Rodríguez is in the zone, driven by the moment. The raucous crowd is bellowing his name, and he’s feeling the energy piercing his soul. As he strides towards the center of the octagon, a couple of burly security guards attempt to block his path, but he’s not about to be held back. He bulldozes his way past them and plants himself firmly on the signature Union GP star logo in the center of the octagon. With his eyes locked onto the heavens, 2Face takes a deep breath, filling his lungs to capacity. And then, in a sudden burst of raw emotion, he unleashes a deafening war cry that reverberates throughout the entire arena. The fans go berserk, their voices reaching a fever pitch as they feed off the primal energy emanating from this warrior.]

MIKE DEMPSEY: “And his opponent, fighting out of the red corner, a Muay Thai Kickboxer holding a professional mixed martial arts record of twenty-seven wins, four losses, one draw. She stands 5’10”, and weighing in at 155 pounds. She is from Brisbane, Queensland, Australia, fighting out of Throne MMA in Las Vegas — presenting the number two ranked Pound-for-Pound Fighter in the World and THE REIGNING, DEFENDING, UNDISPUTED Union Grand Prix Lightweight Champion of the World, “Ram-Paige” Paige Holloway!”

[The arena erupts in a deafening crescendo of cheers and jeers, depending on which section you’re seated in, as the Lightweight Champion strides confidently out from her corner. The champion herself is basking in the moment, soaking in the admiration and criticism alike. She throws both arms over her head and nods a couple of times, savoring the explosive atmosphere that surrounds her. It’s a sea of emotions that washes over you, making you feel alive. This is what it’s all about – the adulation, the spotlight, the glory – and she’s basking in every second of it like a true professional.]

BODIE SULLIVAN: “And here we go, B! We are just moments away from this Lightweight Championship Main Event showdown!”

BYRON McCALL: “I’m fired up! This is going to be an instant classic!”

[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, listen up! You both know the rules. I want you to follow my instructions at all times, keep it clean, keep it fair, and let’s give the fans a show they’ll never forget. Touch gloves and let’s fight.”

[As Paige Holloway extends her gloves for a sportsmanlike touch, 2Face Rodríguez shocks the masses by flipping her off instead! The audience erupts with gasps and cheers as the fighters retreat to their respective corners, ready to face off. Referee Colin Davenport takes one last look at each fighter, checking for readiness before signaling for the bell.]

BODIE SULLIVAN: “If you bet on the prop that these two would not touch gloves, now’s the time to cash in those tickets!”

[The crowd is roaring, heartbeats quickening, and tension electrifying the air. The bell announces the beginning of the first round, and both fighters waste no time in engaging. Holloway launches a crisp uppercut followed by a hard jab and straight right hand, but 2Face deflects the blows. Holloway doesn’t give up, connecting with a powerful body kick, and the fighters circle around the center of the cage, sizing each other up. Holloway unleashes a flurry of punches, but 2Face slips out of danger, avoiding a dangerous strike from Holloway and fending her off with feel-out punches. 2Face wants to close the range and tries to grapple, but Holloway moves backward, refusing to engage in grappling.]

BODIE SULLIVAN: “Fast start to this fight! Both fighters seem to be evenly matched, and the intensity in the arena is palpable.”

BYRON McCALL: “Definitely, Bodie. Holloway is showing some excellent striking skills, but 2Face is not letting her get too comfortable. She’s doing a good job of deflecting the blows and keeping her opponent at bay.”

BODIE SULLIVAN:  “Holloway seems to be in control right now. She’s landing some powerful strikes and keeping 2Face on his toes.”

BYRON McCALL: “Yes, but 2Face is not to be underestimated. He’s got some slick footwork and is landing some good feel-out punches. He’s trying to close the range and engage in grappling, but Holloway is not having any of it.”

[Suddenly, 2Face launches a lightning-fast low kick, and the sound of impact reverberates throughout the arena. The fighters continue to size each other up in the center of the cage, and Holloway retaliates with a hook to the body, and 2Face takes it to the ribs. Holloway launches a furious low kick, which 2Face blocks, but 2Face fakes a punch and launches himself over Holloway in a brilliant move that puts his opponent in a troublesome Thai clinch. The fighters are tied up, and 2Face lands multiple well-placed knees to Holloway’s ribs, impressing the crowd with his skill and strength.]

BODIE SULLIVAN: “2Face is really bringing it to Holloway with those knees in the clinch. Holloway is trying to break free, but 2Face has her tied up tight.”

BYRON McCALL: “Holloway is in trouble here, he needs to find a way out of that clinch before he takes too much damage. It looks like Holloway is trying to use her footwork to create some space, but 2Face is staying right on top of her.”

[But Holloway is not one to be underestimated, and she launches a vicious knee right back, dealing a crushing blow to 2Face’s face. Holloway pushes off of 2Face and starts launching a flurry of hooks and body shots, causing 2Face to stumble backward. The fighters continue to exchange blows, and 2Face finds himself backed against the fence, but he sidesteps away confidently as Holloway charges forward with a flying knee. The action doesn’t stop, with both fighters throwing a flurry of punches.]

BODIE SULLIVAN: “Absolutely filthy knee from Holloway! She’s really turning up the heat now.”

BYRON MCCALL: “2Face is taking some heavy hits here, but he’s not backing down. He’s still standing his ground.”

BODIE SULLIVAN: “Holloway’s really finding her rhythm with those hooks and body shots. 2Face needs to find a way to defend himself.”

BYRON MCCALL: “It looks like 2Face is getting pushed back into the fence, but he does a good job sidestepping and avoiding that flying knee from Holloway.”

[As the fight continues, the fighters exchange clinches, as 2Face manages to pummel his way through, landing hard punches to Holloway’s ribs. Holloway doesn’t want to clinch, and she ducks under 2Face to move away. However, 2Face pushes Holloway forward, not allowing her to break free, and lands a glancing blow to Holloway’s abdomen. The round comes to a close as the horn signals the end of the action. The fighters retreat to their corners, their faces showing the wear and tear of the intense battle already. The crowd is on their feet, cheering and applauding, eager to see what the next round will bring.]

BODIE SULLIVAN: “What an incredible first round we just witnessed, B! These fighters are leaving it all in the cage and giving these fans the fight that they paid for!”

BYRON McCALL: “Absolutely, Bodie! Holloway came out strong with those powerful strikes, but 2Face was able to weather the storm and even landed some impressive knees in the clinch.”

BODIE SULLIVAN: “Yeah, that Thai clinch was a great move, but Holloway responded nicely with a brutal knee to the face that really rocked 2Face.”

BYRON McCALL: “And let’s not forget those exchanges against the fence, Bodie. Both fighters were really going for it and showing off their striking skills.”

BODIE SULLIVAN: “Definitely, B! It’s anyone’s guess how this fight will play out, but one thing’s for sure: it’s going to be an exciting one.”

[The tension in the arena is palpable as Paige Holloway swings for the fences, determined to come out on top in this bout, but 2Face Rodríguez is no slouch, backpedaling and creating distance with ease. The two fighters stare each other down, sweat dripping from their brows. Paige isn’t one to back down, and she’s demanding action from 2Face. But in a split second, she misses a step and 2Face seizes the opportunity to counter with a powerful hook to her ribs. Paige grits her teeth, but the pain is written all over her face.]

BODIE SULLIVAN: “Oh, that was a big hit from 2Face Rodríguez! Paige is definitely feeling the effects of that punch.”

BYRON McCALL: “She’s tough, though. You can see she’s trying to shake it off and get back into the fight.”

[Undeterred, Paige fakes a move and launches a liver kick, but 2Face blocks it with ease and pushes her away. She’s not giving up, closing in on her opponent, determined to land a momentum-shifting strike. She tries a one-two combination, but it’s parried. A solid combination follows, but most of the punches hit nothing but air. Meanwhile, 2Face goes on the offensive, punishing Paige’s already battered ribs with a barrage of hooks. Her ribs are looking worse for wear, and it’s clear that 2Face has the upper hand at this stage, but Paige isn’t giving up just yet. She lands some nice shots that stun 2Face, and quickly moves aside to launch a furious low kick. Unfortunately, 2Face checks it and takes advantage of Paige’s misstep, landing some counter punches that leave her back on the defensive.]

BODIE SULLIVAN: “That was a good moment for Paige, but unfortunately, she followed it up with a low kick that got checked like Nike. 2Face takes advantage of her misstep and lands some heavy counter punches.”

BYRON McCALL: “Paige needs to regroup and come up with a new game plan. She can’t keep taking punishment like this and hope to win the fight.”

[As the two fighters circle each other, 2Face looks for angles to attack, throwing jabs that are met with Paige’s counter punches. But soon, 2Face lands a great combo that leaves Paige reeling, which allows 2Face to secure an underhook clinch. In the clinch, 2Face takes control, pushing Paige against the fence and pummeling her ribs with savage punches. The pain is etched on Paige’s face, but she’s not giving up yet. She tries to shrug her way out, but 2Face is relentless and manages to retain his position.]

BODIE SULLIVAN: “2Face is really turning up the heat now. Paige is struggling to keep up with his pace and power.”

BYRON McCALL: “Yeah, that was a huge combo from 2Face. Paige is in trouble, but she’s not out of this fight yet.”

BODIE SULLIVAN: “It’s not looking good for her though. 2Face has her trapped against the fence and he’s not letting up.”

BYRON McCALL: “Those punches to the ribs are brutal. Paige is tough, but I don’t know how much more of this she can take.”

BODIE SULLIVAN: “She’s trying to get out of that clinch, but 2Face is just too strong. He’s not giving her any room to breathe.”

BYRON McCALL: “Paige needs to find a way to turn things around quickly or this fight is going to be over soon.”

[Paige’s situation is looking grim, and 2Face isn’t showing any mercy. He launches a flurry of hooks and body shots that leave her stumbling backwards. Her right eye is cut, and her cheek is swelling up fast. But Paige isn’t ready to throw in the towel just yet. She pushes away 2Face, determined to keep the fight at striking range. But 2Face is not to be deterred, and he continues grappling with Paige in the clinch. He’s absolutely terrifying with his power, launching vicious uppercuts that leave Paige taking more punishment than she can handle. It’s clear that this could end soon if Paige doesn’t find a way to escape. Referee Colin Davenport is demanding Holloway to defend herself! And then it happens. 2Face launches a vicious knee that Colin Davenport sees as too much. He jumps in between the fighters, stopping the punishment for Paige.]

BODIE SULLIVAN: “The referee is starting to get impatient. He’s demanding that Paige defend herself. Oh, wait, wait, what’s this? He’s actually stepping in, and he’s stopping the fight! It’s all over! It — It is all over! What an upset! 2Face Rodríguez is your new Lightweight Champion!”

BYRON McCALL: “Colin Davenport has been keeping a close eye on Paige. It’s the right call from the ref. She was taking too much punishment. That final knee from 2Face was just too much. But wow, what a finish for the LA born and bred! Big props to Rodríguez!”

[2Face is absolutely dumbfounded! He’s sprinting around the octagon with his arms flung out wide, his jaw practically scraping against the floor in disbelief. As the Ringside Physicians attend to Holloway, 2Face callously taunts and mocks her without mercy. But despite his crude behavior, the crowd is eating it up, which just fuels the fire. Eventually the antics die down from 2Face and Holloway manages to regain her composure and stand up on her own two feet, prompting the physicians to exit the cage and allowing both fighters to meet in the center of the octagon for the official announcement.]

MIKE DEMPSEY: “Ladies and gentlemen, referee Colin Davenport has called for a stop in this fight at three minutes thirteen seconds in the second round, declaring your winner by technical knockout, AAAAAAAANNND… NEEEEEW Union Grand Prix Lightweight Champion of the World, 2Face Rodríguez!”

[2Face’s heart pounds relentlessly in his chest, as adrenaline courses through his veins. He can hardly believe what just happened. Months of grueling training, pouring his heart and soul into each and every practice session, have led up to this defining moment. Emotions flood through 2Face, threatening to spill over. He can barely contain himself as he looks down at the title belt wrapped around his waist. With a triumphant roar, he pumps his fists into the air, basking in the glory of his victory.]

[In a moment of rare introspection, 2Face realizes the significance of his opponent. Despite his earlier taunts, he extends a hand of respect to the disappointed Holloway. Both fighters split off to their respective crews, and the arena continues to vibrate from the roaring crowd. A graphic pops up on screen, breaking down the statistics of the fight while the commentators feverishly recap the action.]

Winner: 2Face Rodríguez by TKO (Knees) at 3:13 Round 2

Statistics: Paige Holloway
Punches 4/16 (25%)
Kicks 1/5 (20%)
Clinch strikes 8/14 (57%)
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: 2Face Rodríguez
Punches 8/10 (80%)
Kicks 1/1 (100%)
Clinch strikes 34/52 (65%)
Takedowns 0/0 (0%)
GnP strikes 0/0 (0%)
Submissions 0/0 (0%)
Clinch Attempts 0/0 (0%)
Time on the ground 0 s

[Once the deafening roar of the crowd fades into a hushed silence, Bodie Sullivan strides purposefully into the octagon. With a steely grip on the microphone, he surveys the atmosphere before him, witnessing a scene of raw emotion. At the center of the octagon, 2Face Rodríguez stands in awe, tears welling in his eyes, aware of the enormity of what has transpired. Slowly and deliberately, Bodie approaches him, each step heavy with the weight of this pivotal moment in Rodríguez’s career. The expectant crowd leans in, holding its collective breath, as Bodie raises the microphone to his lips, the very air charged with anticipation and excitement.]

BODIE SULLIVAN: “Ladies and gentlemen, I am standing here next to the winner AND NEW Lightweight Champion, 2Face Rodríguez! 2Face, congratulations on your victory over a legend, Paige Holloway. How does it feel to win the title in front of your hometown crowd?”

2FACE RODRÍGUEZ: “Feels fuckin’ awesome, Bodie. I knew I was gonna knock that chick out in front of my people, and that’s exactly what I did. LA is my city, and I just put on for my city!”

BODIE SULLIVAN: “Your trash talk leading up to the fight was quite controversial. Some people felt it crossed a line. What do you have to say to those critics?”

2FACE RODRÍGUEZ: “Fuck the haters, Bodie. You don’t gotta like me, but you better damn well show some respect. This is fightin’, not a goddamn tea party. Paige is a grown-ass woman, she can handle some trash talk. If she can’t take it, she shouldn’t have stepped in the cage with me.”

BODIE SULLIVAN: “You landed a huge knee that put Paige down in the second round. Can you walk us through that sequence?”

2FACE RODRÍGUEZ: “Yeah man, I saw the opening and I fuckin’ took it. Paige was too slow, too predictable. I knew I was gonna get her outta there eventually. When I hit her with that knee, I knew it was over. She might have been movin’ still, but she was done.”

BODIE SULLIVAN: “There’s always that eventual talk about potential rematches in moments like this. Is that something you’re interested in between you and Paige?”

2FACE RODRÍGUEZ: “Why the fuck would I waste my time on her again? I already showed everyone who’s boss. Ain’t no point in doin’ it again. I’ll fight anyone they put in front of me, but I ain’t interested in fightin’ the same person twice.”

BODIE SULLIVAN: “So, what’s next for you then? Who do you want to defend your title against?”

2FACE RODRÍGUEZ: “Sheeeeiiit, I don’t give a fuck who they put in front of me. I’ll knock ’em all out like I did Paige. But if I had to choose, give me someone with a big name or someone new to the division. Give me that Aussie who chokes under pressure — McKay, or that Twin Cities girl who chokes under pressure — “Black Jack” Abbie, or that chick who ran away to Japan — CC Flynn. Oh and that coward Gianna Howard talkin’ smack about movin’ up to 155? Step up and get slapped around, too!”

BODIE SULLIVAN: “2Face I want to say, congratulations again on the big win tonight, go out there and celebrate! Ladies and gentlemen, give it up for the NEW Lightweight Champion, 2Face Rodríguez!”

[The camera feed inched backward, revealing a colossal arena pulsing with fanatical fans, each of them delirious over the heart-stopping brawl they had just beheld. The scene crackled with energy, as a cascade of camera flashes ignited the stadium like a Fourth of July extravaganza. As the feed slowly faded, the air remained thick with the lingering fervor and zeal, leaving viewers teetering on the edge of their seats, eagerly salivating for the next epic showdown in the merciless octagon. And then, in a blink, the Battleground Network emblem blazed onto the screen, the last graphic to radiate before this night’s stream feed, and the unforgettable action it captured, drew to a close.]