UGP 43: LATTIMORE vs TWEEDS
ROUND ONE: The first round saw both fighters start cautiously, with Gaines throwing a stiff jab that was blocked by Kelly. Kelly countered with some good leg kicks, causing Gaines to wince in pain. Gaines tried to take control by clinching with Kelly against the fence and launching a barrage of punches, but Kelly managed to block most of the hits and counter with a few jabs of his own. The action heated up when Gaines landed a bone-shattering straight left hand, which Kelly narrowly ducked under. Kelly tried to take Gaines down, but he lost balance and went to the ground himself. Kelly managed to take Gaines’ back and lock in a rear-naked choke, but Gaines spun out and got back to his feet. The two fighters continued to exchange blows on their feet, with Gaines delivering a big right hand that Kelly dodged before launching an uppercut that landed on Gaines’ chin. Gaines tried to grapple with Kelly, but Kelly managed to avoid the clinch and even attempted a triangle choke. The action eventually went to the ground, with Kelly on top of Gaines in side mount, hammering his ribs. The round ended with the ref stopping the action and both fighters returning to their corners.
Isaac Cohen’s Scorecard (Unofficial): 10-9 Gaines
ROUND TWO: Both fighters engaged in a wild exchange of punches, with Gaines initially getting the better of the exchange. However, Kelly landed a great combo that rocked Gaines and grazed his right cheek with a counter punch. The two continued to exchange wildly, with both fighters missing terribly. Kelly then tried to bring the fight to the ground, and Gaines went down. Kelly ended up in open guard over Gaines, and Gaines tried to close his guard around Kelly, eventually succeeding. Kelly was in closed guard, and Gaines used the opportunity to rest, but Kelly used his wrestling skills to escape from the closed guard. After a lack of activity, the fighters were stood up, and they continued the fight standing. Gaines landed some nice punches, but Kelly blocked them with even nicer blocks. Kelly then landed a solid shot to Gaines’s body, which Gaines didn’t like. Kelly then grabbed Gaines by the waist and executed a great takedown, ending up in open guard over Gaines. Gaines tried to close his guard around Kelly, but was unable to do so. Kelly then tried to finish the fight with a leg lock, but Gaines broke the lock. Kelly then passed to half guard over Gaines, who tried to close the guard but failed. In a scramble, both fighters exchanged some weak punches while climbing to their feet. The sound of the horn brought the round to an end with Darrell Stevens separating the fighters from the ground.
Isaac Cohen’s Scorecard (Unofficial): 10-9 Kelly (19-19 Push)
ROUND THREE: Gaines started the round with a high kick that missed its mark, and slipped momentarily before regaining his footing. He launched a hook to the body, but Ardan Kelly deftly dodged it and showed off some impressive bobbing and weaving. Gaines attempted to land a flurry of punches, but only managed to graze Kelly with them. Kelly then attempted to take Gaines down, and after some struggle, managed to get into a side mount position over him. Gaines tried to use his ground skills to escape, but Kelly used his strength to keep him at bay. Kelly saw an opportunity to counter and quickly moved to mount Gaines. He tried to lock in an armbar, but Gaines managed to break free and gain a closed guard over Kelly. The fight was briefly paused by the referee due to a lack of activity, but quickly resumed with both fighters throwing strikes. Kelly managed to get Gaines to the ground again and tried to lock in a kneebar, but Gaines fought back and managed to escape. Both fighters then engaged in a wild exchange of punches, with Kelly getting the better of it before Gaines landed a hit that almost broke Kelly’s jaw. The round ended with both fighters looking exhausted and Darrell Stevens calling for them to go to their corners.
Isaac Cohen’s Scorecard (Unofficial): 10-9 Kelly (29-28 Kelly)
JUDGES’ SCORECARDS
Ardan Kelly 10 10 10: 30
Cortez Gaines 9 9 9: 27
Ardan Kelly 10 10 10: 30
Cortez Gaines 9 9 9: 27
Ardan Kelly 10 10 10: 30
Cortez Gaines 9 9 9: 27
Winner: Ardan Kelly by Unanimous Decision
Statistics: Ardan Kelly
Punches 29/38 (76%)
Kicks 4/4 (100%)
Clinch strikes 0/3 (0%)
Takedowns 7/7 (100%)
GnP strikes 0/0 (0%)
Submissions 6/6 (100%)
Clinch Attempts 0/0 (0%)
Time on the ground 316 s
Statistics: Cortez Gaines
Punches 22/66 (33%)
Kicks 0/5 (0%)
Clinch strikes 0/6 (0%)
Takedowns 0/0 (0%)
GnP strikes 0/0 (0%)
Submissions 0/0 (0%)
Clinch Attempts 2/2 (100%)
Time on the ground 270 s
ROUND ONE: As soon as the bell rang for the first round, both fighters began to circle around the center of the cage, trying to gauge each other’s moves. Harris started off strong, launching a brilliant combination that forced Moss to defend himself better. However, Moss quickly turned the tables on Harris, taking the fight to the ground with a single leg takedown. Harris fell to the ground, and Moss took the open guard position over her. Harris tried to fight back, launching a few punches towards Moss’ face, but Moss effectively blocked them. Moss then pushed Harris against the fence, trying to improve his position, but Harris put up a good fight, not allowing Moss to improve. However, Moss found a crack in Harris’ guard and used it to land a powerful elbow to her forehead that rocked her head against the mat. Dusty Whittaker was close to calling off the fight, but Harris managed to launch a few weak punches, which Moss effectively blocked. Moss then started hitting Harris with some vicious elbows while in side mount, causing her face to bruise up. Harris managed to trap Moss in her guard, and the fighters were stood up by the referee due to inactivity on the ground. On their feet, Harris launched a furious low kick, and Moss tried to take the fight to the ground again, succeeding with a great takedown. Moss then wailed away at Harris on the ground with an incredible flurry of punches, but Harris blocked them effectively. Harris managed to reverse the position and took the full mount over Moss. Despite Moss’ efforts to escape, Harris controlled the situation, landing some big punches on Moss’ face. The round ended with both fighters standing, with Dusty Whittaker directing them to their corners.
Isaac Cohen’s Scorecard (Unofficial): 10-9 Moss
ROUND TWO: The action resumed with Moss attempting to throw Harris, but Harris flew through the air and landed in open guard. Harris then used her forearms to block Moss’ big elbow strike and successfully closed her guard around him. Moss attempted to pass Harris’ guard but failed, and Harris landed a few hammer punches to Moss’ ribs. Moss launched a few punches from guard, but Harris blocked them effectively. The fighters were eventually stood up by the referee due to a lack of activity, and the fight continued standing. Moss landed a stiff jab and then attempted a takedown, which Harris defended well. Moss then pulled guard and attempted a round of ground and pound, but Harris blocked the strikes and escaped to her feet. The fighters exchanged a few punches, and Moss attempted another takedown, which Harris again defended well. The round ended with Moss attempting another takedown, but Harris showed great balance and pushed him away as the horn signaled the end of the round.
Isaac Cohen’s Scorecard (Unofficial): 10-9 Harris (19-19 Push)
ROUND THREE: Moss attempted a single leg takedown, but Harris defended it with a double overhooks move. Moss then pulled guard, and Harris found herself in closed guard, with Moss throwing punches from the bottom. Harris blocked the hits and worked to improve her position, eventually getting half mount over Moss. She then landed a huge elbow that rocked Moss’ head against the mat, causing the referee to consider stopping the fight. Moss tried to launch a few punches, but Harris blocked them effectively. Harris then took advantage of a mistake by Moss and secured the rear mount, controlling Moss’ back while on the ground. Moss would escape back to his feet and the two then engaged in a wild exchange of punches with Harris landing some blows and defending takedowns. The fighters later found themselves in closed guard and open guard, with Moss trying to measure the resilience of Harris’ ribs with big punches. However, Harris blocked the hits and worked on the ground to improve her position. The referee eventually stood the fighters up due to a lack of activity, and both fighters continued the fight on their feet. Moss attempted a double leg takedown, but Harris defended it and tied up with Moss in a clinch. She then caught an ankle and tripped Moss to the mat, where she landed in closed guard over him. Moss continued to throw punches, but Harris blocked them with her head pressed forward. The referee eventually stopped the action as the final horn sounded, ending the fight.
Isaac Cohen’s Scorecard (Unofficial): 10-9 Harris (29-28 Harris)
JUDGES’ SCORECARDS
Cameron Moss 10 9 9: 28
Catherine Harris 9 10 10: 29
Cameron Moss 10 9 9: 28
Catherine Harris 9 10 10: 29
Cameron Moss 9 9 9: 27
Catherine Harris 10 10 10: 30
Winner: Catherine Harris by Unanimous Decision
Statistics: Cameron Moss
Punches 0/13 (0%)
Kicks 0/0 (0%)
Clinch strikes 0/7 (0%)
Takedowns 2/11 (18%)
GnP strikes 11/82 (13%)
Submissions 0/0 (0%)
Clinch Attempts 0/0 (0%)
Time on the ground 634 s
Statistics: Catherine Harris
Punches 6/8 (75%)
Kicks 1/1 (100%)
Clinch strikes 1/1 (100%)
Takedowns 1/1 (100%)
GnP strikes 9/13 (69%)
Submissions 0/0 (0%)
Clinch Attempts 0/0 (0%)
Time on the ground 634 s
ROUND ONE: The round began with both fighters sizing each other up, throwing some jabs and counter punches. D’Ante Jackson showed his skill with some brilliant combinations, but Erick Costa was quick on his feet, dodging the punches with ease. Costa took advantage of a poorly executed technique by Jackson and landed a hook to the body, leaving Jackson gasping for air. The fighters continued to circle each other, with both of them trying to land the perfect strike. Jackson attempted an uppercut, but Costa blocked it easily. Costa then showed some excellent footwork and landed some nice shots, making Jackson stagger back. Jackson shook the cobwebs out and threw a crushing straight right hand, but Costa was quick to duck under it. Both fighters continued to trade blows, with Jackson attempting a takedown, but Costa shrugged it off. The round ended with both fighters still standing and trading before referee Jack Gibbs separated them and directed them to their corners.
Isaac Cohen’s Scorecard (Unofficial): 10-9 Costa
ROUND TWO: Both fighters tried to gain the upper hand in the center of the cage to start the second round. D’Ante Jackson started things off with a hook to Erick Costa’s body, but Costa quickly moved aside, looking for a counter. Jackson then avoided a dangerous strike from Costa and fended him off with feel-out punches. Jackson threw a big straight right hand, forcing Costa to duck under and avoid the onslaught. Jackson then launched a flurry of punches, but Costa slipped out of danger and the exchange ended in a standoff. Jackson tried to take Costa down with a single leg, but Costa showed great balance and pushed him away. As the round progressed, Costa landed several good body shots and a lightning-fast low kick, while Jackson fired back with some wild punches of his own. However, Costa was getting the better of the exchange and even taunted Jackson, asking if he came to fight or run. In the final moments of the round, Costa landed a ferocious straight left hand that left Jackson wobbling. He then measured Jackson with his jab and landed a solid combination. Jackson tried to respond with an unorthodox punch to Costa’s torso, but it missed its mark and the round ended with the fighters retreating back to their corners, preparing for the final round.
Isaac Cohen’s Scorecard (Unofficial): 10-9 Costa (20-18 Costa)
ROUND THREE: Erick Costa lands a strong low kick, and the crowd erupts with excitement. He then goes for a hook to the body and connects hard with D’Ante Jackson’s ribs, leaving him visibly hurt. Costa presses forward with a flurry of punches, and Jackson struggles to defend himself. Despite Jackson’s best efforts, Costa continues to dominate with his striking, causing Jackson’s chin to swell and leaving a small cut. Jackson tries to turn the tide with a quick hook, but Costa counters with a devastating hook to the body that hits Jackson’s ribs hard once again. As the two fighters engage in a wild exchange of punches, Costa seems to be getting the upper hand with his powerful strikes. Jackson attempts a sweep single, but Costa is ready and shrugs off the takedown attempt. Costa lands a grazing punch on Jackson’s cheek, and then unleashes a series of tremendous strikes that leave Jackson reeling back into the fence. Costa continues to rain down blows and in the end, the fight is called by referee Jack Gibbs, who deems that Jackson is not intelligently defending himself after several verbal warnings.
Winner: Erick Costa by TKO (Punch) at 2:15 Round 3
Statistics: Erick Costa
Punches 43/57 (75%)
Kicks 4/6 (67%)
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: D’Ante Jackson
Punches 0/32 (0%)
Kicks 0/0 (0%)
Clinch strikes 0/0 (0%)
Takedowns 0/3 (0%)
GnP strikes 0/0 (0%)
Submissions 0/0 (0%)
Clinch Attempts 0/0 (0%)
Time on the ground 0 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 Little Caesars Arena in Detroit, Michigan and the octagon is officially open for business for UGP 43! Hello everyone and thank you for tuning in. I am Bodie Sullivan and alongside me is the Hall of Fame Legend, Byron McCall! It’s great to have you back on the sticks B, we have an absolutely stacked card tonight here in the Motor City!”
BYRON McCALL: “There’s no doubt about, Bodie. I’m psyched to be here with the best seat in the house! The fight fans are in for a real treat tonight. We have two title fights atop of the marquee that feature two Great Lake State luminaries looking to defend their titles as well as some very exciting matchups on the undercard that have a lot of major implications at stake, and of course, the electric atmosphere that only the Union Grand Prix can provide.”
BODIE SULLIVAN: “Before we talk about our title fights, let’s begin with our main card opener. It’s a Middleweight bout between Bodhi Bottoms and Eagle Mondalvi, two surefire strikers looking to continue their climb in the rankings.”
BYRON McCALL: “Both of these fighters are new to the Union scene, but they bring a lot of experience and have a ton of potential to become big time contenders. You won’t want to miss this one, it’s definitely going to be a brawl!”
BODIE SULLIVAN: “We move on from there to a Heavyweight clash between the fifth ranked Joseph Byrne and the Everest MMA alum and tenth ranked Dominic Donaldson.”
BYRON McCALL: “This is going to be a slugfest of a fight. The most intriguing thing to me is the size difference between these two. Dominic Donaldson is one of the smaller fighters in the heavyweight division, but that didn’t prove to be too much of an issue for him in Everest. However, Joey Byrne is a former Title Challenger that brings a lot of power to the table.”
BODIE SULLIVAN: “Then in our featured undercard bout, former Lightweight Title Challenger Abbie Peterson takes on the former Everest MMA Welterweight Champion Silvio Gotti Jr. With a new champion crowned in 2Face Rodríguez recently, it seems like the top of the division is wide open after 2Face showed little interest in an immediate rematch with former Champ Paige Holloway. If one of these fighters can walk away with an impressive performance, we could very well see a new contender on the rise.”
BYRON McCALL: “I’ll admit, I wasn’t the biggest fan in how 2Face Rodríguez went about his way of shutting down the idea of a rematch, but at the end of the day, talk your shit and make your voice heard. He’s the champ now and the champ calls the shots. Although Peterson lost to Rodríguez in her most recent outing, dangling that carrot in the form of championship gold could ignite a fire that we’ve never seen. Gotti on the other hand has his sights set on becoming the latest Everest alum to hold Union gold. I love this clash of styles matchup and can’t wait to see it all unfold.”
BODIE SULLIVAN: “Speaking of Everest alums becoming Union Champions, let’s journey our way finally into the championship block of the card, starting off with the Co-Main Event for the Middleweight Championship. Lovelie Saint-Cyr is a former Everest MMA Welterweight Champion and he comes into this fight tonight in his home state looking to make his third successful title defense.”
BYRON McCALL: “Saint-Cyr has done more than what most fighters could ever claim. He and I put on a five round banger, and unfortunately for me, I came up short. Saint-Cyr won the belt and then went on to beat Travis Decker. Now, I’m no critic of Lovelie Saint-Cyr, the guy deserves all the praise in the world. But there are some who still want to minimize what he’s accomplished simply because the two Union title fights he’s won were by split decision. Listen, the 185 pound class is murderer’s row. It’s arguably been the most competitive division in Union GP history. However, what he’s up against is a terrifying unknown. Noah Vanderkaay is unbeaten at 10-0 and has had little to no resistance up to this point. He’s had four fights in Union, and he’s got four finishes. Only once has a fight gone past the first round, but let’s be clear here, this is the biggest test Vanderkaay has faced in his career. He’s never had a fight on this big of a stage, never had a five round bout scheduled. The crowd is going to be fully behind Saint-Cyr tonight, and that is another big obstacle he will have to overcome.”
BODIE SULLIVAN: “Just to piggyback off that, in our Main Event, we have another man who will have the entire arena rallying behind him. Heavyweight Champion and Detroit native Gauge Lattimore will look to make his first title defense against the number two ranked Billy Tweeds. This is going to be a clash of titans, folks.”
BYRON McCALL: “Gauge Lattimore has been a dominant force in the division. He’s 4-0 as a Heavyweight, and he’s finished all of his heavyweight opponents not named Owen Barnes. But don’t sleep on Billy Tweeds, he’s no slouch. He’s won four of his last five fights, and he’s hungry for that championship belt.”
BODIE SULLIVAN: “It’s a night jam packed with action! And with that, folks, let’s turn our attention over inside the octagon where our very own hype man, the Mouthpiece of MMA, Mike Dempsey, who’s on stand by awaiting his cue. IT’S BOUT TIME!”
MIKE DEMPSEY: “Ladies and gentlemen, we are live exclusively on the Battleground Network here at the Little Caesars Arena in Detroit, Michigan for UGP 43: LATTIMORE versus TWEEDS! And now, this opening contest is scheduled for three rounds in the Union Grand Prix Middleweight Division! Introducing first, fighting out of the blue corner, a Boxer holding a professional mixed martial arts record of nineteen wins, three losses. He stands 6’3”, and weighing in at 185 pounds. He is from Miami, Florida, fighting out of 9th World Miami, presenting the number nine ranked Middleweight Contender in the World, “Violent” Eagle Mondalvi!”
[As the crowd roars with anticipation, Eagle Mondalvi takes a deep breath and adjusts his stance, his muscles tense and ready for action. The air is thick with the energy of the fight, the scent of sweat and adrenaline filling his nostrils. He locks eyes with his opponent from across the octagon, his gaze burning with a fierce determination.]
BODIE SULLIVAN: “First up to kick off this main card is Eagle Mondalvi, who brings in a wealth of experience with over twenty fights under his belt prior to signing on the dotted line. After a remarkable debut in Union GP, where he defeated the former two-time Middleweight Champion Robert Guilliman, Eagle is determined to make it two wins in a row tonight. With his sights set on becoming a top contender in this division, he’s here to prove his mettle and show the world what he’s truly capable of.”
BYRON McCALL: “And he continues to put in the work, Bodie. Eagle has been training hard at 9th World Miami, one of the premier MMA training camps in the world. His dedication to his craft has been unwavering as he constantly strives to improve his skills. Eagle’s striking game is exceptional, blending the devastating techniques of boxing and Muay Thai to deliver precise, lightning-fast strikes that leave his opponents struggling to keep up. In addition to his striking, Eagle possesses a remarkable ability to move with great speed and agility, making it difficult for his opponents to land punches and inflict a lot of significant damage. He has a unique way of slipping punches and weaving in and out of his opponents’ range.”
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 6’ even, and weighing in at 185 pounds. He is from Long Beach, California, presenting the number eight ranked Middleweight Contender in the World, Bodhi Bottoms!”
[Bodhi Bottoms stood firmly in his corner, his eyes locked onto his opponent in a fierce gaze that conveyed his determination to emerge victorious. His heart pounded in his chest, each beat a resounding reminder of the weight of the moment.]
BODIE SULLIVAN: “And now, with the Long Beach native, Bodhi Bottoms is eager to bounce back after a tough loss in his last outing. And let me tell you, he’s not one to mess with grappling or roll on the ground with some jiu-jitsu. Bottoms is an absolute beast when it comes to striking, delivering some of the most powerful punches you’ll ever see for a Middleweight.”
BYRON McCALL: “I think it’s safe to say that we won’t be seeing any takedowns from either guy tonight. Bottoms will likely be keeping enough distance from his opponent to avoid any clinches and fight in the phone booth. Bottoms has faced two submission specialists so far in his Union GP career, winning one and losing one, but tonight, he’s up against a very game striker in Eagle Mondalvi. So, we should see some fireworks to open the main card!”
[The atmosphere was electric as the two fighters, Eagle Mondalvi and Bodhi Bottoms, stepped into the center of the octagon to officially kick off the main card. Jordan Ripley, the referee for the bout, signaled the start of the first round with the sound of the bell. Eagle Mondalvi wasted no time and went in with a looping right hand, but Bodhi Bottoms was quick to react and jumped back, throwing a jab in the process. The exchange seemed to have rattled Bodhi, as he appeared to be staggered, giving Eagle the perfect opportunity to unleash a barrage of jabs and crosses.]
BODIE SULLIVAN: “What a start to this fight! Eagle Mondalvi wasting no time with that powerful right hand, but Bodhi Bottoms showing great reflexes to avoid it and land a jab of his own.”
BYRON McCALL:“Yeah, that was a close call for Bottoms. He looked a bit stunned there, Bodie. And now Eagle is taking advantage of that momentary lapse, going in with a flurry of punches.”
BODIE SULLIVAN: “You can see that Mondalvi is the more aggressive fighter here, B. He’s definitely looking to end this fight early.”
BYRON McCALL:“But let’s not count Bodhi out just yet. He’s resilient and he’s got some serious power in those fists. He just needs to weather this storm and find his opening.”
[Bodhi attempted to fight back with some well executed leg kicks, but Eagle proved to be too quick, effortlessly checking them. In a moment of carelessness, Bodhi let his guard down, and Eagle seized the opportunity, throwing an overhand right that landed with a deafening impact. It was as though the force of the punch could have destroyed a brick wall. Bodhi absorbed the blow with his face, and everyone in the audience was left wondering how he managed to stay standing. As the fight continued, Eagle threw another looping right hand that landed squarely on Bodhi’s chin. The impact was so brutal that it stopped Bodhi in his tracks, leaving him dazed and disoriented. It was clear that the punishment was starting to take its toll on Bodhi, with his left eye now visibly bruised, and a small laceration forming on his eyelid.]
BODIE SULLIVAN: “Bodhi Bottoms is having a tough time finding his range in this bout. He tried to utilize his leg kicks, but Eagle’s quick reactions were able to easily check them. And just when it seemed like Bodhi was starting to get comfortable, Eagle threw a devastating overhand right that connected with Bodhi’s face, leaving the audience in shock.”
BYRON McCALL: “That punch was a game-changer. Bodhi took it like a champ, but you have to wonder how much more punishment he can take. Eagle seems to be in complete control of this fight, and Bodhi’s left eye is banged up now. He needs to do something to turn things around before it’s too late.”
BODIE SULLIVAN: “Absolutely, B. But Eagle isn’t giving Bodhi any room to breathe. He just landed another heavy right hand that stopped Bodhi in his tracks. Bodhi’s looking dazed and disoriented, and it’s clear that the punishment is starting to take its toll.”
BYRON McCALL: “It’s tough to see Bodhi in this condition. He’s a warrior, but there’s only so much one person can take. He needs to find a way to create some space and fight back if he wants to stay in this bout.”
[Eagle continued to dominate the fight, dodging a dangerous strike from Bodhi and countering with a solid straight. The blow was so powerful that it left Bodhi staggering, and Eagle knew it was time to capitalize on his advantage. With a feint and a quick step forward, he landed a crushing hook that left Bodhi reeling. But Eagle wasn’t done yet. He followed up with a superb haymaker that connected with Bodhi’s face like a cannonball. The impact was so severe that Bodhi couldn’t see anything with his right eye swollen shut, and after eating a few more uncontested shots, Bodhi ragdolled to the mat, lying unconscious.]
BODIE SULLIVAN: “Well, B, it looks like Eagle Mondalvi is just too much for Bodhi Bottoms tonight. That hook and haymaker combo was devastating.”
BYRON McCALL “Eagle Mondalvi showed incredible speed and precision with those punches. And Bodhi’s right eye is completely swollen shut. It’s clear he’s in bad shape.”
BODIE SULLIVAN: “The ringside physicians are checking on him now, but it doesn’t look good. That was a brutal knockout.”
BYRON McCALL “No doubt about it. Eagle has proven once again why he’s one of the best fighters in the game.”
[As Mondalvi triumphantly embraces his cornermen, the audience erupts into deafening applause. The medical team quickly entered the octagon to attend to Bodhi Bottoms. After a brief examination, Bodhi was able to regain his footing and the physicians exited the cage after completing their examination. The two fighters stood in the center of the octagon, battered and bruised, but showing a mutual respect for each other, as they awaited for the official announcement of the winner.]
MIKE DEMPSEY: “Ladies and gentlemen, referee Jordan Ripley has called for a stop in this fight at one minute twenty-two seconds in the very first round, declaring your winner by knockout, “Violent” Eagle Mondalvi!”
[The audience erupted in applause as Mondalvi was declared the winner. The two fighters exchanged a respectful handshake before going their separate ways. The screen displayed a graphic with the fight’s statistics and the commentators gave a summary of the match, but the fans were still buzzing with excitement and adrenaline from the intense battle they had just witnessed.]
Winner: Eagle Mondalvi by KO (Punches) at 1:22 Round 1
Statistics: Bodhi Bottoms
Punches 0/1 (0%)
Kicks 0/3 (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: Eagle Mondalvi
Punches 9/12 (75%)
Kicks 0/0 (0%)
Clinch strikes 0/0 (0%)
Takedowns 0/0 (0%)
GnP strikes 0/0 (0%)
Submissions 0/0 (0%)
Clinch Attempts 0/0 (0%)
Time on the ground 0 s
BODIE SULLIVAN: “We are back ladies and gentlemen from our break for station identification. What a night it’s been so far, and we’re just getting started! Before we move onto our heavyweight contest, be sure to keep up with all of the latest from DRIP, the newest branch of Union GP.”
BYRON McCALL: “DRIP is a must-see for any fight fan. It’s a showcase for unsigned fighters looking to earn a contract with one of the several branches of Union GP. The level of talent on display is truly impressive, and you never know when you might see the next big thing in MMA. And the best part is, you can catch all of the coverage right here on the Battleground Network!”
BODIE SULLIVAN: “Speaking of impressive, we’ve got an impressive special guest in the crowd tonight. Delaney Donovan, a 2022 Hall of Fame inductee and former Middleweight and Lightweight Champion is in the house tonight!.”
BYRON McCALL: “Delaney is a true legend of the sport, Bodie. It’s an honor to have him here with us tonight. I’m sure he’s here to watch his prospects from Kratos Combat Sports in action tonight.”
BODIE SULLIVAN: “Absolutely. And you know, B, I can’t help but wonder if any of the fighters we’re seeing tonight will go on to have a career like Delaney’s.”
BYRON McCALL: “It’s certainly possible, Bodie. Crazier things have happened, right? Look at the lineup tonight and you’ll find a handful already on their way there. These fighters are dedicated and focused, and that’s what it takes to make it to the top in this sport.”
BODIE SULLIVAN: “No doubt about it. Alright folks, let’s get back to the action in the cage.”
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 Muay Thai Kickboxer holding a professional mixed martial arts record of nine wins, two losses. He stands 6’1”, and weighing in at 240 pounds. He is from Chicago, Illinois, fighting out of Kratos Combat Sports, presenting the number ten ranked Heavyweight Contender in the World, “Thunder” Dominic Donaldson!”
[As the pulsating energy of the arena electrifies the air, a hush falls over the crowd, and all eyes turn towards the ring. In the corner, Dominic Donaldson stands tall, radiating an aura of confidence and relaxation that seems almost otherworldly. His muscles ripple under his skin as he bounces on his toes, his eyes focused intently on his opponent. His breaths come steady and deep, his mind clear and focused on the task ahead.
BODIE SULLIVAN: “One of the several recent promising prospects coming out of the Kratos Combat Sports facility led by Hall of Famer Delaney Donovan, the Everest MMA graduate Dominic Donaldson makes his main card debut on the big stage tonight. From what we have seen from Donaldson in Everest, he’s a surgical striker and tough as nails.”
BYRON McCALL: “His nickname is Thunder, but he’s fast as lightning as well! Being on the smaller side of this division, he uses that drawback to his advantage. He can slip and dip a lot of traffic that gets him out of trouble and if he does get into those firefights, he’s got a granite chin and can take a hit. I love what I’ve seen from Donaldson so far in his young pro career as he looks to make a big leap tonight.”
MIKE DEMPSEY: “And his opponent, fighting out of the red corner, a Boxer holding a professional mixed martial arts record of seven wins, five losses. He stands 6’4”, and weighing in at 265 pounds. He is from London, England, fighting out of ScrapYard MMA, presenting the former Union Grand Prix Heavyweight Title Challenger and the number five ranked Heavyweight Contender in the World, “One Punch” Joseph Byrne!”
[In the midst of the crowd roaring with excitement, Joseph Byrne stands in his corner, his eyes fixed on his opponent. Despite the chaos around him, Byrne exudes an air of quiet confidence. His muscles are relaxed, yet coiled like a snake, ready to strike. It’s as if he is a force of nature, unshakable and unbreakable, like the eye of a hurricane.]
BODIE SULLIVAN: “Joey Byrne returns to action tonight after taking an early exit in the Interim Heavyweight Championship Grand Prix back in August of last year. He took some time off to hone his skills. Byrne has been a fixture in the heavyweight division for a minute now, proving to always be a tough outing for anyone that stands across from him. Tonight he looks to bounce back in the win column, regain some momentum, and either keep or improve the number next to his name.”
BYRON McCALL: “Despite the idle time he’s had, he’s remained at the top of the rankings and that shows the respect he has for his skill set and resume. He’s been the gatekeeper for the heavyweight division, and I’m sure he would like to shed that designation and become a true title contender threat once again. Tonight renews that journey for him.”
[As the sound of the bell reverberates through the arena, Joseph Byrne and Dominic Donaldson close the distance toward the center of the octagon. The referee, Lars Levy, stands stoically off the perimeter, his eyes focused on the combatants. As soon as the fight begins, the two waste no time in launching themselves forward. Donaldson circles around Byrne, testing the waters with a few tentative punches. Byrne responds with a couple of jabs, and the two exchange blows in a solid back and forth exchange. But it’s Joey Byrne who really starts to gain momentum, raining punches down on Donaldson without mercy. The crowd is on their feet, cheering and shouting as Byrne continues to dominate the fight.]
BODIE SULLIVAN: “Wow, Joey Byrne is really taking control of this fight! He’s showing some great striking and seems to have caught Donaldson off guard.”
BYRON McCALL: “Yeah, Byrne is definitely in the driver’s seat here. Donaldson needs to find a way to defend himself and turn this around if he wants to stay in the game.”
BODIE SULLIVAN: “But how? Byrne’s striking is just too strong right now and even if he looks for a takedown, Joey B has got a pretty solid ground game that’s highly underrated.”
BYRON McCALL: “Yeah I don’t know that I would want to take this fight to the ground with the much bigger Byrne. He just needs to create some space to allow himself to regroup. This is turning out to be quite the battle for Dominic.”
[Donaldson, however, is not one to give up easily. He counters with a great combo of his own, landing several blows targeted at Byrne’s face. Byrne tries to shrug his way out of the clinch, but Donaldson is determined to work from there, pummeling Byrne with brutal uppercuts and punches to the ribs. Byrne is taking more than he can handle, stumbling backwards and looking for a way to escape, but Donaldson is relentless, pushing Byrne up against the fence and not allowing him to break free.]
BODIE SULLIVAN: “Wow, Donaldson has really turned the tide here! He’s landed some devastating shots on Byrne and has him pinned up against the fence.”
BYRON McCALL: “The script has been flipped and now Byrne looks like he’s in trouble. He needs to find a way out of that clinch and create some space to recover. Funny how I suggested the same for Dominic just a minute ago.”
BODIE SULLIVAN: “But Donaldson is not giving him any room to breathe. He’s keeping the pressure on and landing some heavy shots.”
[As Byrne’s legs start to wobble, the crowd holds their breath, wondering how much more he can take. And then, with a sickening thud, Donaldson lands a crushing uppercut from the clinch that almost breaks Byrne’s chin. He goes down, the lights turned out by Donaldson’s astonishing knockout blow.]
BODIE SULLIVAN: “Wooooooow!! It is all over! Dominic Donaldson just landed a devastating uppercut from the clinch!”
BYRON McCALL:“That was a brutal shot, Byrne’s out cold. What an incredible knockout by Donaldson! It’s always tough to see a fighter go down like that, but Donaldson was just too precise and powerful. He’s definitely made a statement with that one!”
[Dominic Donaldson raced around the octagon, ecstatic for his triumph, before hopping the fence to embrace his cornermen, his heart pounding with joy and relief. The roar of the crowd was deafening, a wave of sound that threatened to sweep him away. As the medical team rushed into the octagon to attend to Byrne, Donaldson’s mind was still reeling from the intensity of the fight. He watched as the physicians examined his opponent, their expressions grave. But to his immense relief, Byrne was soon able to regain his footing, and the doctors quickly exited the cage. With both fighters back on their feet, they gathered in the center of the octagon, ready for the official announcement of the winner.]
MIKE DEMPSEY: “Ladies and gentlemen, referee Lars Levy has called for a stop in this fight at three minutes thirty-two seconds in the very first round, declaring your winner by knockout, “Thunder” Dominic Donaldson!”
[Donaldson stepped forward, his arms raised in triumph, as the referee declared him the winner. With a grin of pure joy on his face, he made his way over to his opponent, extending his hand in a show of respect. The two fighters shared a brief moment of camaraderie before going their separate ways, each one basking in the glow of their hard-fought battle. As the screen displayed a graphic with the fight’s statistics, the commentators gave a summary of the match, their voices filled with excitement and admiration for the skill and tenacity of both fighters.]
Winner: Dominic Donaldson by KO (Uppercut) at 3:32 Round 1
Statistics: Joseph Byrne
Punches 8/13 (62%)
Kicks 0/1 (0%)
Clinch strikes 0/1 (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: Dominic Donaldson
Punches 5/7 (71%)
Kicks 0/0 (0%)
Clinch strikes 24/33 (73%)
Takedowns 0/0 (0%)
GnP strikes 0/0 (0%)
Submissions 0/0 (0%)
Clinch Attempts 1/1 (100%)
Time on the ground 0 s
BODIE SULLIVAN: “Welcome back to the broadcast, ladies and gentlemen. We’re about to get back into the action, but before we do, we have some exciting news to share with you. B, you’ve got some information on Everest MMA, don’t you?”
BYRON McCALL: “Absolutely, Bodie! For those of you who have been living under a rock, Everest MMA is Union GP’s developmental brand. It’s where fighters from all over the world come to hone their skills and work their way up to the big leagues. The seasonal winners earn a nice million dollar purse and a guaranteed contract offer to one of the several brands Union has to offer. And let me tell you, folks, the talent there is unreal! And with all sixteen fighters locked in for Season 4, Everest MMA is gearing up for some incredible fights from the future of MMA. So make sure to tune in and catch all the action, folks.
BODIE SULLIVAN: And speaking of Everest MMA, Bodie, we have a decorated Everest alumni in the crowd tonight. Derrius Webb, the three-time Everest Welterweight Champion, is here tonight, folks! And let me tell you, this guy is a beast and one of the funnest fighters to watch right now.”
BYRON McCALL: ”No doubt about it, Bodie. Spyda is a force to be reckoned with, and he’s currently sitting at #3 in the Global Rankings. He’s on his way to a title fight, folks, and we can’t wait to see him in action.”
BODIE SULLIVAN: “That’s right, B! And I have a feeling we’ll be seeing a lot more of him in the future. He’s a guy that wants to stay active. But for now, let’s get back to the action, folks. We have a great fight coming up!”
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 Wrestler holding a professional mixed martial arts record of six wins, two losses. He stands 5’9”, and weighing in at 155 pounds. He is from Vienna, Austria, fighting out of Red Rock Fighting, presenting the former Everest MMA Welterweight Champion and the number four ranked Lightweight Contender in the World, “The Sickle” Silvio Gotti Junior!”
[The fluorescent lights overhead cast a harsh glare over the scene, illuminating the sweat-drenched bodies of the fighters and the octagon’s canvas, which has already been stained with spilled blood. Silvio Gotti stands confidently in his corner, his eyes locked in on his opponent. Despite the chaos around him, he remains composed, his expression serene and determined. It’s as though he’s in his own world, separate from the noise and the chaos that surround him.]
BODIE SULLIVAN: “Gotti Jr. is a force to be reckoned with, having won the Season 1 Everest MMA Welterweight Championship and currently holding the number 4 ranking in the Lightweight division. With a record of 6-2, he’s proven himself to be a skilled competitor and a real threat to his opponents.”
BYRON McCALL: “One of the things that really sets Gotti Jr. apart from the rest is his submission game. He’s a world-class specialist in this area and has submitted some of the best fighters in the game. He’s also got solid wrestling skills, which he uses to control his opponents and set up those lethal subs.”
BODIE SULLIVAN: “Let’s not forget his impressive resume. Gotti Jr. has two victories over Derrius Webb, a highly regarded and talented fighter in his own right. He also gave Alistair McKay a run for his money, taking him into the third round before falling short. Not many people can make that claim. All of this speaks to his skill and determination in the octagon.”
MIKE DEMPSEY: “And his opponent, fighting out of the red corner, a Muay Thai Kickboxer holding a professional mixed martial arts record of ten wins, four losses. She stands 6’ even, and weighing in at 155 pounds. She is from Minneapolis, Minnesota, fighting out of Twin Cities MMA, presenting the number three ranked Lightweight Contender in the World, “Blackjack” Abbie Peterson!”
[As the feed pans in on a close up of Abbie Peterson, it’s impossible to ignore the fierce determination etched upon her face. Her eyes are locked onto her opponent with a fiery intensity that seems to penetrate the very depths of their soul. It’s as if she’s been waiting for this moment her entire life, and now that it’s finally here, there’s no turning back. Abbie’s muscles tense as she bounces back and forth on the balls of her feet, her body poised and ready to strike. Every fiber of her being is honed in on the fight ahead, and you can practically feel the intensity radiating off of her.]
BODIE SULLIVAN: “Abbie Peterson, one of the most skilled fighters in the lightweight division, is looking to rebound from a loss to current Lightweight Champion 2Face Rodríguez in her last fight, and she knows that a victory tonight could put her back in the title picture. Abbie has an impressive resume, but she has experienced some setbacks in her career, with title reigns in both Everest MMA and Union GP slipping out of reach.”
BYRON McCALL: “She’s a fighter with a lot to prove, having suffered losses in two separate title fights, one against Alistair McKay in Everest and another against Delaney Donovan in Union. However, Abbie Peterson is a true warrior, and she’s never one to back down from a challenge. Abbie is a dangerous presence in the octagon. Her striking game is so unique, with a masterful blend of Muay Thai and Dutch Kickboxing techniques that can leave her opponents dazed and confused. Her reach advantage is also a major asset, allowing her to keep her opponents at bay and strike from distance. That could be a big factor against a much smaller Silvio Gotti.”
[As referee Archie Driscoll steps back into the perimeter, the crowd is buzzing with excitement, eager for the fight to begin while Peterson and Gotti close the distance. Peterson wastes no time, launching a furious low kick in an attempt to gain the upper hand. But Gotti is quick to react, blocking the kick and countering with a double underhooks. As the fighters clinch, Gotti pushes Peterson towards the fence, trying to calm down the action. With Gotti in control, he suddenly attempts to pull guard, bringing Peterson down to the ground and closing his guard. Peterson is now in a vulnerable position, trapped in Gotti’s closed guard. She tries to posture up and open Gotti’s guard, but Gotti is too quick and keeps his ankles locked tight.]
BODIE SULLIVAN: “Gotti seems to have Peterson in a tight spot here. She’s struggling to get out of his closed guard.”
BYRON McCALL: “Yeah, Gotti’s ground game is impressive. Peterson needs to find a way to break free before he starts landing strikes from the bottom.”
BODIE SULLIVAN: “It looks like Peterson is trying to create some space. She’s posturing up and trying to push down on Gotti’s legs.”
BYRON McCALL:“Gotti’s not making it easy, though. He’s keeping his guard tight and looking for any opening to strike.”
[Determined to improve her position, Peterson sits on her knees and tries to break the closed guard, but Gotti leans in and takes hold of her arms, bringing her back down to the ground. Gotti then switches to a high guard and tries to sink a triangle choke, tightening his grip around Peterson’s neck. Peterson’s head turns red from the choke, but she manages to slip her head out of the lock just in time. Peterson creates enough space to spring back up to her feet and Gotti follows suit, both fighters now back on their feet. Peterson takes advantage of the position and lands a solid low kick, but Gotti is undeterred, and tries to grapple once again. He secures a single collar tie and the fighters lock horns.]
BODIE SULLIVAN: “Peterson managed to escape the triangle choke just in time, that was a close call!”
BYRON McCALL:“Gotti was so close to finishing the fight there, Bodie. Peterson needs to be careful, Gotti is so dangerous on the ground.”
BODIE SULLIVAN: ” Peterson seems to have regained her footing now, and that was a solid low kick she just landed.”
BYRON McCALL:“And now Gotti’s got a single collar tie. This dude is relentless.”
[With both fighters in close proximity, Peterson charges towards Gotti with a flying knee, hitting him in the chest and sending him to the mat. As Gotti lies on his back, he launches an up-kick intended for Peterson’s head, but Peterson leans out of the way just in time. Gotti tries to hit Peterson with a kick to her knee from the ground, but Peterson dodges it. Seizing the opportunity, Peterson launches a kick to Gotti’s thigh, but Gotti checks the kick with ease. The continued targeted upkicks to the knees are enough reason for Peterson to back off, and the referee directs Gotti back up to his feet.]
BODIE SULLIVAN:“Wow, that flying knee stunned Gotti!”
BYRON McCALL: “It looks like Peterson is backing off now and letting Gotti back up to his feet. Those upkicks to the knees can be career-altering, Bodie. You don’t want to mess around with that..”
[As they size each other up in the center of the octagon, Gotti tries a low kick, but Peterson is too smart for that and blocks it. Peterson then surprises Gotti with a spinning back kick to the chin, catching him off guard. Peterson follows up with some tentative punches, but there is nothing from that exchange, and Gotti moves back to take a deep breath. Despite the intense competition, both fighters show each other a ton of respect. Peterson jumps over her opponent, attempting to grapple once again, but Gotti sees it coming and ducks under and moves aside.]
BODIE SULLIVAN: “Peterson is looking really impressive so far with her striking. That spinning back kick was a thing of beauty.”
BYRON McCALL: “Absolutely, she’s finding her rhythm, Gotti needs to watch out for those surprise attacks. He seems a bit rattled after that last exchange.”
BODIE SULLIVAN:“But you have to give credit to Gotti, he’s not letting Peterson get too comfortable in there. He’s being very strategic with his movements.”
BYRON McCALL: “This is turning out to be a real chess match between these two. Very close round.”
[Gotti then fakes a move and moves laterally, before diving for Peterson’s right leg and turning it into a foot lock attempt. Peterson is quick and narrowly steps out of danger, while Gotti remains on the ground. Peterson launches another kick to Gotti’s thigh, but once again, Gotti checks it with ease. With Gotti on the ground, he tries to hit Peterson with a kick to the knee, and although he lands it successfully, Peterson steps back, trying to find another way to use this position to her advantage. The referee separates the fighters as the horn sounds, signaling the end of round one. The crowd erupts into cheers as the fighters make their way back to their corners, ready for the next round.]
[The crowd was on their feet, shouting and cheering as the two fighters marched toward the center of the octagon for the second round. Peterson, with a determined look on her face, threw a quick low kick, followed by a superb body kick that landed on Gotti with a resounding thud. Gotti tried to grapple and put Peterson in a double underhook, she fought back, but both fighters ended up tied in a clinch. Peterson launched a series of well-placed knees, hitting Gotti’s ribs and body with vicious precision. She delivered a crushing shot to Gotti’s body, causing him to hold his side in pain. Gotti tried to break away from the clinch, but Peterson wasn’t having any of it. She pushed him forward and kept him tied up in the clinch, launching brutal knees to his face and body. Peterson took a moment to catch her breath while holding Gotti against the fence, and the referee intervened to break up the clinch.]
BODIE SULLIVAN: “Wow, Peterson is really taking control of this fight now. Those knees were brutal!”
BYRON McCALL: “Yeah, Gotti is really struggling to get out of that clinch. Peterson’s technique is just too overpowering.”
BODIE SULLIVAN: “Gotti looks hurt, he’s holding his side in pain. Peterson’s body shot really did some damage.”
BYRON McCALL: “Gotti needs to find a way to get out of this clinch and create some distance. Otherwise, Peterson is just going to keep punishing him with those knees.”
[Peterson didn’t let up, throwing low kicks and superb body kicks that landed with a solid thud on Gotti. Gotti tried to fake a punch and move aside, but Peterson followed up with a good front kick that made Gotti stumble backward. Peterson then delivered a vicious middle kick that landed hard on Gotti’s ribs, causing him to wince in pain. As the fight continued, Peterson moved forward looking for some grappling action, but Gotti pushed her away and kept the fight at striking range. However, Peterson wasn’t deterred and tried another middle kick, which Gotti blocked and stepped away from. Peterson then had her opponent in a textbook double collar Thai clinch, launching a flurry of knees that left Gotti reeling.]
BODIE SULLIVAN: “Peterson is really dominating this fight so far. Gotti seems to be struggling to keep up with her striking game.”
BYRON McCALL: “Yeah, Peterson’s kicks to the legs and body are really taking a toll on Gotti. And that middle kick to the ribs looked like it hurt him badly.”
BODIE SULLIVAN: “Oh for sure, but Gotti is still in there, trying to find an opening. He just needs to stop eating so many of Peterson’s strikes.”
[The crowd erupted as Peterson delivered a devastating knee to Gotti’s chin, causing a loud pop that could be heard throughout the arena. She continued to control the clinch and launched another vicious knee that landed on Gotti’s face, leaving a small but deep laceration on his right eye. Peterson slightly pushed Gotti into the fence, trying to calm down the action. Gotti created enough space to pull guard and take the fight to the ground, with Peterson going down in open guard. Gotti tried to finish with a leg lock, but Peterson was able to break free. Peterson then tried to close her guard around Gotti, but she wasn’t able to do it. Gotti was in open guard over Peterson, breathing deeply while on the ground. The referee stopped the action as the horn signaled the end of the round.]
[The roar of the crowd echoed through the arena as Abbie Peterson and Silvio Gotti stood across from each other, each waiting for the other to make a move to start the third and final round. Fatigue looked to be getting the best of these competitors until in the blink of an eye, Peterson launched a furious low kick, sending a hard blow to Gotti’s left leg. Gotti tried to retaliate with a takedown attempt, but stopped short, avoiding Peterson’s kick. Peterson was quick on her feet, faking a punch and moving aside with ease. In a flash, she launched another low kick that landed with a loud pop, causing Gotti to wince in pain. Peterson threw a few jabs, looking for angles, but Gotti countered with punches of his own. However, Peterson quickly gained the upper hand, landing a great combo on Gotti.]
BODIE SULLIVAN: “Peterson’s striking has really come alive in this round! Gotti needs to find a way to defend those low kicks.”
BYRON McCALL: “It’s not looking good for him. Peterson is dominating this round with her precision striking… And there she goes with another great combo!”
BODIE SULLIVAN: “It’s only a matter of time before Peterson finishes this fight.”
[Peterson launched a low kick that almost wrenched Gotti’s knee. She followed it up with a looping right hand, but Gotti jumped back and dodged the blow. As they continued to exchange blows, Peterson spun around and tried a spinning back kick that caught Gotti off guard, landing squarely on his chin. Peterson was in total control by now, faking a punch and launching herself over Gotti, clinching him and pushing him against the cage. In the clinch, Peterson didn’t stop, launching devastating knees that landed with a loud pop, causing the crowd to erupt after each one connected. Gotti tried to break free, but Peterson landed another great knee, causing Gotti to stumble backwards.]
BODIE SULLIVAN: “Wow, Peterson is really dominating this bout, B! She continues to land powerful strikes at will and that spinning back kick was a thing of beauty!”
BYRON McCALL: “Gotti is tougher than a two dollar steak, Bodie. He’s still on his feet and trying to break free from the clinch. Let’s see if he can come up with something to turn the tide.”
[Peterson continued to dominate, landing brutal knees to Gotti’s face and body. Gotti’s right cheek was swelling badly, and he was holding his abdomen in pain after taking so many knees. Peterson didn’t let up, keeping Gotti in a clinch and kneeing him in the face, landing solid strikes. As the round wore on, Peterson continued to display her dominance, launching lightning fast low kicks and a brutal-looking high kick that Gotti barely managed to dodge. With the round winding down, Gotti seemed staggered, and Peterson seized the opportunity, running in with a flurry of jabs and crosses. As the final horn blew, the fighters shook hands and headed back to their corners, the energy of the crowd still pulsing through the arena.]
BODIE SULLIVAN: “And this one goes the distance, folks! Abbie Peterson really put on a clinic out there, especially there as the fight wore on. Gotti just couldn’t get back on track once Abbie got rolling. It’s impressive how Peterson was able to keep a relentless pressure on Gotti and not allow him to get any of his own grappling going.”
BYRON McCALL: “Absolutely. Outside of that first round, Silvio Gotti had a really hard time even keeping up with Abbie. I wouldn’t be shocked to see a 10-8 round scored on at least one of these judges’ scorecards. I would be completely shocked if this fight doesn’t go to Blackjack. I think it’s a safe bet to say Abbie Peterson earned a hard fought victory tonight.”
[Both fighters were completely spent, their bodies pushed to their absolute limits in the grueling fight. They stumbled towards their respective corners, gripping the top of the fence for support as they gasped for air. Sweat poured down their faces, and their muscles trembled with exhaustion. The doctors, with a sense of urgency in their step, quickly approached each corner to assess the condition of the fighters. But, to the relief of everyone watching, neither fighter seemed to be seriously injured. The doctors gave a brief nod to the corner teams and exited the cage. The fighters made their way back to the center of the octagon, the crowd held its breath as Mike Dempsey stepped up to read out the scorecards, revealing the winner.]
MIKE DEMPSEY: “Ladies and gentlemen, after three rounds, we go to the judges’ scorecards for a decision. The judges have scored it 30-26, 30-25, and 30-26, declaring your winner by unanimous decision, “Blackjack” Abbie Peterson!”
[Abbie beamed with joy and relief as she celebrated her hard-earned victory. She embraced her opponent, sharing a moment of mutual respect and admiration for each other’s skills and tenacity. It was a touching display of sportsmanship that left the audience in awe. As the competitors parted ways to join their respective teams, the commentators took the sound waves to analyze the bout. They discussed the tactics and strategies employed by each fighter, dissecting every move and counter-move. A visual display of the fight statistics was projected on the screen, providing the audience with a deeper look of the intricacies of the fight.]
JUDGE KORDELL REYNOLDS
Abbie Peterson 10 10 10: 30
Silvio Gotti 9 9 8: 26
JUDGE OTTO PORTER
Abbie Peterson 10 10 10: 30
Silvio Gotti 9 8 8: 25
JUDGE ERICA WYNN
Abbie Peterson 10 10 10: 30
Silvio Gotti 9 9 8: 26
Winner: Abbie Peterson by Unanimous Decision
Statistics: Abbie Peterson
Punches 9/19 (47%)
Kicks 14/20 (70%)
Clinch strikes 32/52 (62%)
Takedowns 0/0 (0%)
GnP strikes 0/0 (0%)
Submissions 0/0 (0%)
Clinch Attempts 1/1 (100%)
Time on the ground 91 s
Statistics: Silvio Gotti Jr.
Punches 7/10 (70%)
Kicks 0/1 (0%)
Clinch strikes 0/0 (0%)
Takedowns 1/1 (100%)
GnP strikes 0/0 (0%)
Submissions 3/3 (100%)
Clinch Attempts 1/1 (100%)
Time on the ground 146 s
BODIE SULLIVAN: “Welcome back fight fans! It’s been an incredible night of fights here at the Little Caesars Arena in Detroit, Michigan, and we’re about to jump back into the Co-Main Event Middleweight Championship action! But before we do, let’s take a moment to talk about RFC 3: DUALITY, the upcoming event from Ryujin FC.”
BYRON McCALL: “That’s right, Bodie. RFC 3 is shaping up to be the biggest event for the young promotion, and there’s been a lot of rumors swirling around that it’s gonna have some mind-blowing fights lined up. The card features some of the top fighters in the world, and a show time will be announced later this week!”
BODIE SULLIVAN: “Absolutely, and let’s not forget the Main Event. CC Flynn, the reigning Ryujin FC Champion, will be defending her title for the first time and although it hasn’t been officially announced yet, you can bet your savings that she’s going up against Zion Momo’a. I cannot wait, B!”
BYRON McCALL: “And speaking of CC Flynn, take a look at the crowd tonight. There she is, the champ herself, catching the action live. You know she’s got her sights set on RFC 3, and she’s going to be bringing everything she’s got to that fight.”
BODIE SULLIVAN:“That’s right, B. And with that, let’s switch gears and move on to the championship block of the card. Our Co-Main Event Middleweight Championship bout is next!”
♫
CAN’T YOU SEE
A SIGN FROM GOD, HE CAME TO ME
MAYBE SOMETHING TO BELIEVE
IS ALL OUR PEOPLE REALLY NEED
HAVE YOU LOST YOUR LOVE
LOOK IN THEIR EYES THEY’VE GIVEN UP
WATCH AS ALL OUR HOMES ARE BURNED
SALVATION A FAR CRY WHICH I WILL RETURN
♫
[As the stadium lights dim down, the sound of thunderous drums and electrifying guitar riffs of “Fleur de Lis” by The Raven Age reverberate through the arena, signaling the arrival of the fearless fighter. Suddenly, the spotlight shines on the entrance ramp, and a figure emerges from the smoke and haze. It’s Noah Vanderkaay, looking more confident and focused than ever before. The crowd erupts as the fighter strides down the ramp, exuding an aura of raw power and aggression. Dressed in his signature black and red trunks, Vanderkaay looks like a beast ready to unleash his fury on his opponent. He walks with a purpose, his eyes fixed on the octagon as if he’s already in the zone.]
BODIE SULLIVAN: “Alright ladies and gentlemen, we have an absolute barn burner of a matchup in store for you right now, as the undefeated Noah Vanderkaay makes his way to the octagon. “The Mauler” has been one of the most dominant fighters in recent memory, boasting an unblemished record of 10-0. He’s a master of the fistic arts, with a background in Boxing and also Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. Vanderkaay’s skill set is truly exceptional, with crisp striking, outstanding footwork, and a remarkable ability to keep his opponents on their toes with his unpredictable combinations. Not to mention his incredible cardio, which allows him to set a high pace that keeps his opponents rattled.”
BYRON McCALL: “He’s only been outside the first round one time in four Union fights. All four of those have ended by stoppage. Although it hasn’t really been seen so far, Vanderkaay also possesses world-class grappling and submission skills. It seems that no matter where the fight goes, his offensive mindset will keep him in control of any situation.”
[Noah Vanderkaay makes it to the cageside area and begins to dress down to his fight gear. He hands his warmups off to one of his coaches and gives one final embrace before turning to the official. Vanderkaay stood tall and focused as he waited for the officials to inspect him before his big title fight. He took deep breaths and shook out his muscles, preparing himself mentally for the rigorous process. The officials approached him and began the inspection process. Noah patiently stood still as they checked his nails, hair, and body for any signs of prohibited substances. After the thorough examination, the officials gave him a nod of approval, and Noah felt a surge of adrenaline and confidence. He raced up the steps and exploded with a war cry and the crowd responded in kind. Vanderkaay took to his corner and awaited his opponent.]
[As the ensuing moments of anticipation filled the arena, the lights suddenly cut to pitch black darkness, sending a wave of hushed murmurs through the crowd. The air was thick with an electric tension, every heart beating as one with excitement and anticipation. Suddenly, a deep humming sound echoed through the air, sending shivers down the spines of everyone present.]
[It was the intro to “Till I Die” by Zuse, the soundtrack to the momentous event that was about to unfold. Spotlights began scanning the entire arena, illuminating the shadows and adding to the suspense. The crowd erupted into deafening cheers as the heavy beat of the song finally dropped, shaking the very foundation of the building.]
♫
IMMA HUSTLE EVERYDAY ‘TIL THE DAY I DIE
IN THE TRENCHES WITH MY NIGGAS TRYING TO STAY ALIVE
COCKROACHES ON THE FLOOR WHERE I LAY AT NIGHT
THIS MY GHETTO GOT A WHOLE DIFFERENT WAY OF LIFE
♫
[As the arena roars with anticipation, a figure slowly emerges, captivating the audience with every step. It’s Lovelie Saint-Cyr, the Middleweight Champion of the World. His shoulders are draped with a unique and powerful symbol – a sewn-together American and Haitian flag – a testament to his heritage and the struggles he’s faced throughout his life. With his eyes locked on the octagon, Saint-Cyr never wavers in his stride. His calm and collected demeanor exudes confidence and fearlessness, as if he’s already won the fight before it’s even begun. His cornermen – Roscoe Robinson, Donnie Calabrese, and Jakko Wirman – follow closely behind, each of them radiating an aura of unwavering support and trust in their champion and Hit Squad brother.]
BODIE SULLIVAN: “And now, the reigning and defending undisputed 185 pound champion, Lovelie Saint-Cyr, is about to enter the octagon, and this place is going bananas! This guy is a true champion through and through. He’s got an incredible arsenal, and he’s proved time and time again that he is one of the best fighters in the world. One thing that really sets Saint-Cyr apart from his peers is his ability to go the distance. He’s been in five fights that have gone all five rounds and one more that went into the fourth round. The longer this fight goes, the more it will favor Saint-Cyr. He’s got incredible stamina and cardio, and he’s proven time and time again that he can outlast his opponents.”
BYRON McCALL: “But it’s not just his endurance that makes him a champion. Saint-Cyr has beaten two current or future hall of farmers in his last two fights. That’s no small feat, my friends. He’s a well-rounded fighter who can strike, wrestle, and grapple with the best of them. And let’s not forget that he’s looking to make his second title defense tonight in his home state. His track record proves he’s built for these moments. I can’t wait to see how it all plays out!”
[Lovelie’s heart was pounding with a mix of nerves and excitement as he made his way towards the cageside area. As he approached, he could feel the eyes of everyone around him on him, watching his every move. He tried to keep his cool, but his hands were shaking as he started to strip down to his shorts. Once he was down to his BST Fightwear gear, he took a moment to gather himself, closing his eyes and taking a deep breath. Then, he turned to the official, trying to project an air of confidence and control. As the official began his pat-down, Lovelie couldn’t help but think about all the hard work and sacrifices that had led him to this moment.]
[After the official had finished his inspection and given him the all-clear, Lovelie turned to his cornermen, dapping them each up one last time. As he made his way up the steps and into the octagon, he could feel his adrenaline pumping. He jogged a few laps around the perimeter of the cage, trying to get his blood flowing and his muscles warmed up. The crowd was roaring, and Lovelie could feel their energy coursing through him, giving him the strength and courage to take on anything and everything.]
MIKE DEMPSEY: “Ladies and gentlemen, it’s time for the Co-Main Event of the evening! Sanctioned by the Michigan Unarmed Combat Commission, our three judges scoring this contest at cageside are Kordell Reynolds, Otto Porter, Erica Wynn, and when the action begins, our referee in charge in the octagon is Bruno Alves. AND NOW, this is the moment you’ve all been waiting for! Live from the sold out Little Caesars Arena in Detroit, Michigan, 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 Middleweight Championship! Introducing first, fighting out of the blue corner, a Boxer holding a perfect professional mixed martial arts record of ten wins, no losses. He stands 6’2”, and weighing in at 185 pounds. He is from Minneapolis, Minnesota, fighting out of Twin Cities MMA — presenting the number one ranked Middleweight Contender in the World, “The Mauler” Noah Vanderkaay!”
[The air inside the packed arena was snapping with electricity, super charged with the excitement and anticipation of the upcoming championship bout. The lone spotlight overhead cast harsh shadows across the octagon, highlighting every ripple of muscle in the two fighters as they stepped into the center, ready to face off. Noah Vanderkaay’s eyes blazed with a fierce intensity, his jaw set in determination as he locked eyes with his opponent. The Mauler never wavered with his unbreakable stare. He stood motionless, as if time had stood still, savoring every morsel of this moment.]
MIKE DEMPSEY: “And his opponent, fighting out of the red corner, a Shotokan Karate Striker holding a professional mixed martial arts record of eleven wins, four losses. He stands 6’ even, and weighing in at 185 pounds. He is from Port-au-Prince, Haiti by way of Flint, Michigan, fighting out of The Hit Squad — presenting THE REIGNING, DEFENDING, UNDISPUTED Union Grand Prix Middleweight Champion of the World, Lovelie Saint-Cyr!”
[The noise of the crowd was like a thunderous roar that seemed to shake the very foundation of the arena. All eyes were trained on the octagon, where the two fighters were getting ready to face off against each other in a battle of wills, strength, and skill. Lovelie Saint-Cyr stood in his corner, his muscles tense and his eyes fixed on his opponent. He knew that this would be a fight like no other, one that would test his limits and push him to the very brink of his abilities. But he was ready for it, his years of training and dedication to his craft giving him the confidence he needed to face whatever came his way.]
[Saint-Cyr took a deep breath and stepped forward, the cheers of the crowd ringing in his ears. He stood in the center of the octagon and gave his opponent the utmost respect in the form of a Saikeirei bow, a traditional custom in his discipline before battle. It was a gesture of honor and reverence, a way of acknowledging the strength and skill of his opponent. Then, with a sense of purpose and determination, Saint-Cyr stepped back into his corner, his eyes fixed on his opponent. He knew that this was his chance to prove himself once again, to show the world what he was made of.]
BODIE SULLIVAN: “And here we go, ladies and gentlemen. History is up for grabs!”
[The roar of the crowd filled every inch of space, their cheers and jeers merging into a deafening symphony that echoed off the walls. In the center of the cage, the referee, Bruno Alves, stood tall, his authoritative presence commanding attention from all around. He raised his hand, signaling for both fighters to approach the center. The two opponents made their way to the middle of the ring, their eyes locked onto each other like predators sizing up their prey. Behind Bruno Alves, Mike Dempsey held a microphone, ready to capture every moment of the fight. He watched with a mix of excitement and trepidation as the referee gave one final pep talk to the fighters, his words a reminder of the rules and expectations of the match.]
BRUNO ALVES: “Alright fighters, we’ve gone through the rules in the back. Protect yourself at all times, follow my instructions, touch gloves and let’s do it.”
[As the official spoke, the fighters nodded, their eyes never leaving each other. They knew what was at stake – their pride, their reputation, their legacy. For a moment, the entire arena held its breath. The referee’s final words hung in the air, a challenge and a warning, a call to action. And then, with a nod from Bruno Alves, the fighters touched gloves and parted, ready to face each other and begin the fight of their lives. In that moment, everything else faded away – the noise of the crowd, the bright lights, even the cage itself. It was just two warriors, facing each other down, ready to do battle.]
[The aura of the arena is buzzing as both fighters step into the center of the octagon, ready for action. Saint-Cyr and Vanderkaay stare each other down, their eyes locked in. Saint-Cyr strikes first, launching a powerful hook to the body, but Vanderkaay is quick, moving aside to avoid the blow and looking for a counter. He unleashes a flurry of tremendous strikes, but Saint-Cyr blocks them all with confidence. Undeterred, Vanderkaay goes for a looping right hand while Saint-Cyr jumps back and jabs. Saint-Cyr seems staggered a bit, so Vanderkaay takes advantage, running in with a barrage of jabs and crosses. Saint-Cyr is tough, though, and he weathers the storm, unfazed by Vanderkaay’s assault.]
BODIE SULLIVAN: “Saint-Cyr’s hooks are quick and powerful, but Vanderkaay seems to be handling them well.”
BYRON McCALL: “Vanderkaay is definitely a skilled counter-striker, but Saint-Cyr’s defense is just as impressive. He’s blocking Vanderkaay’s attacks with ease.”
[Vanderkaay gets a bit relaxed with his technique, and Saint-Cyr sees his chance. He lands a crisp uppercut followed by a hard jab. Saint-Cyr leads with another punch, but Vanderkaay avoids it and lands a flush counter uppercut that rocks Saint-Cyr to his core. Saint-Cyr fires back with some jabs, trying to find a weakness, but to no visible effect. Meanwhile, Vanderkaay continues to rain down tremendous strikes, landing some big punches that feel like they shake the entire building.]
BODIE SULLIVAN: “Damn! Saint-Cyr really had Vanderkaay on skates for a second there, but Vanderkaay’s counters are making Lovelie think twice about his approach.”
BYRON McCALL: “Vanderkaay is not holding back at all. He’s unleashing some serious power behind those punches, despite his willingness to eat those shots.”
[Saint-Cyr lands an unorthodox counter punch to Vanderkaay’s torso, hitting his mark with deadly accuracy. And then, he fakes a move and launches a liver kick that almost wrenches Vanderkaay’s body in two. Vanderkaay, though, is nothing if not resilient. He launches a couple of jabs and a big hook, but Saint-Cyr blocks and circles around him, looking for angles. He throws a hook that hits its mark, and Vanderkaay responds with a looping right hand while Saint-Cyr jumps back and jabs. Saint-Cyr seems dazed a bit, and Vanderkaay sees his opportunity, running in with a bunch of jabs and crosses.]
BODIE SULLIVAN: “Saint-Cyr is displaying some impressive strikes there, really showcasing his unorthodox style.”
BYRON McCALL: “Vanderkaay is taking those body shots. Saint-Cyr isn’t giving him any openings though, he’s constantly circling around him and looking for angles and keeping himself off the centerline.”
[Suddenly, Vanderkaay lands a bone-shattering straight right hand that sends Saint-Cyr reeling. But Saint-Cyr rallies, faking a move and launching a nice uppercut. Vanderkaay responds with a nice uppercut of his own, landing it squarely on Saint-Cyr’s chin. Vanderkaay launches a hook to the body, but Saint-Cyr stops it with his ribs. Vanderkaay throws a punch that gets deflected, and Saint-Cyr responds with a bone-shattering straight right hand. Both fighters exchange tentative punches, each trying to find an opening. The referee steps in, separating them as the horn sounds, and the crowd erupts into applause, eagerly anticipating the next round.]
[The second round begins with a flurry of action as Vanderkaay lands a few nice shots that stun Saint-Cyr, leaving him momentarily disoriented. But Saint-Cyr shows some impressive dodging skills, ducking Vanderkaay’s bone-shattering straight right hand. A brilliant combination from Vanderkaay follows, but Saint-Cyr manages to avoid getting hit by it. In response, Saint-Cyr scores a nice one-two combination, impressing the crowd with his skill. But Vanderkaay is not one to be outdone, and he goes to the body, punishing Saint-Cyr’s ribs with a couple of hooks. Saint-Cyr visibly winces, clearly feeling the impact of the blows.]
BODIE SULLIVAN: “Vanderkaay seems to have found his rhythm in this round, landing some big shots and causing Saint-Cyr to take a step back.”
BYRON McCALL: “Saint-Cyr’s movement is impressive, but he needs to start throwing more punches if he wants to win this round. He’s been on the defensive for too long, and Vanderkaay is starting to take control of the fight.”
[Vanderkaay suddenly spins around, trying to catch Saint-Cyr off-guard, but the skilled fighter is aware of the move and blocks it with confidence. A punch from Vanderkaay grazes Saint-Cyr’s right cheek, leaving a red mark that stands out against his skin. Saint-Cyr retaliates with a hook to the body, hitting Vanderkaay’s ribs hard. It’s a hard blow, and Vanderkaay seems hurt, struggling to keep his focus. But he’s not out of the fight yet, and he fakes a move and moves laterally, throwing a left hook that falls short. Saint-Cyr tries a shovel hook, but it goes nowhere, and Vanderkaay lands a quick hook, followed by a solid shot to the body. The crowd is on their feet, watching as the two fighters wildly hit the air with their punches.]
BODIE SULLIVAN: “Wow, this is turning out to be a very evenly matched bout. Vanderkaay is putting up a good fight, but Saint-Cyr is showing some great defense and is really keeping his cool under pressure.”
BYRON McCALL: “Vanderkaay is showing some impressive footwork, but he’s taking a lot of hits to the body. Saint-Cyr’s body shots are definitely taking their toll on Vanderkaay. This is where experience really comes into play. Saint-Cyr is showing some great ring awareness.”
[Vanderkaay throws a punch that finds an opening in Saint-Cyr’s defense, grazing his left cheek. The two fighters engage in a wild exchange of punches, and Vanderkaay seems to be getting the best of the exchange as he lands a few blows. He’s swinging for the fences, and a big right hand lands that almost breaks Saint-Cyr’s jaw. But Saint-Cyr is not ready to give up just yet, and he manages to land a left hook that grazes Vanderkaay’s chin. It’s a close call, but Vanderkaay responds with another bone-shattering straight right hand.]
[As the round continues, Vanderkaay keeps up the pressure, raining punches down on Saint-Cyr. He scores a nice one-two combination, jabs at Saint-Cyr’s chest, and looks for angles as he throws a few jabs that are countered by Saint-Cyr’s punches. But Vanderkaay is relentless, and he scores another one-two combination, followed by a pulverizing punch to Saint-Cyr’s head. There’s a deep cut on Saint-Cyr’s forehead, and his blood is making stains on the mat.]
BODIE SULLIVAN: “Vanderkaay is showing excellent technique and precision in his punches, and his aggression is really starting to pay off. Saint-Cyr needs to find a way to defend himself better and counterattack more effectively.”
BYRON McCALL: “Saint-Cyr’s defense has been lacking, and Vanderkaay has been exploiting that weakness with his relentless offense. If Saint-Cyr wants to have a chance in this fight, he’ll need to make some major adjustments in the next round.”
[Vanderkaay continues to go to the body, punishing Saint-Cyr’s ribs with a couple of hooks. Saint-Cyr tries to block Vanderkaay’s punches, but he’s clearly struggling. A wicked punch by Vanderkaay rocks Saint-Cyr, and he follows it up with an uppercut that lands solidly. The horn sounds, and the round is over. The fighters head to their corners, their adrenaline pumping as they catch their breath. It’s been an intense and thrilling round, and the crowd can’t wait to see what will happen in the next.]
[The third round begins and the sound of fists hitting flesh echoes throughout the arena, as Saint-Cyr and Vanderkaay square off. Saint-Cyr’s face is already a mess, blood pouring from a nasty cut above his eye. But he refuses to give up. Vanderkaay throws a series of solid jabs, each one connecting with a resounding thud. Saint-Cyr staggers backwards, struggling to keep his balance. Vanderkaay feints a punch, then side steps away with nimble footwork. Vanderkaay lands several more shots that leave Saint-Cyr reeling. The Michigan native’s vision is starting to blur, and he can feel the fight slipping away from him. He tries to cut off Vanderkaay with punches, but the Twin Cities prospect is too quick, darting in and out with lightning speed.]
BODIE SULLIVAN: “Saint-Cyr looks like he’s in real trouble here, Byron. Vanderkaay is picking him apart with those jabs and he’s just too fast for Saint-Cyr to catch up to. Saint-Cyr is tough, no doubt about it. But Vanderkaay is showing some real skill out there. He’s not just relying on his power, he’s using his footwork and feints to keep Saint-Cyr off balance.”
BYRON McCALL: “And now Saint-Cyr’s vision is starting to blur. That’s a bad sign. He’s going to have to dig deep if he wants to turn this around. Vanderkaay has been controlling the pace and dictating the action for a minute.”
[Vanderkaay is a blur of motion, moving in to strike and then backing away just as quickly. Saint-Cyr is bleeding profusely, but he refuses to back down, launching his own counter-attacks and trying to keep Vanderkaay on his toes. The two fighters exchange blows with lightning speed, each punch landing with a bone-jarring impact. Vanderkaay throws a hook to the body, but Saint-Cyr manages to dodge it, responding with a solid kick to the leg. Vanderkaay checks the kick and counters with an uppercut that lands solidly. Saint-Cyr is desperate to turn the tide, but his efforts are not producing the results. Vanderkaay is too skilled, too relentless. Saint-Cyr steps forward, only to be caught with an uppercut to the face that sends him crashing to the mat.]
BODIE SULLIVAN: “And there it is! Vanderkaay with another huge uppercut that sends Saint-Cyr crashing to the mat. This could be it, folks!”
BYRON McCALL: “Every time Saint-Cyr tries to mount an attack, Vanderkaay is right there with a counter that lands with incredible force.”
[Vanderkaay is standing tall, his eyes blazing with intensity. He launches a kick to Saint-Cyr’s thigh, the sound of impact echoing throughout the arena. Saint-Cyr struggles back to his feet, wiping blood from his eyes. Vanderkaay launches a series of tentative punches, each one finding its mark. Saint-Cyr is clearly in trouble, his body battered and bruised. But he refuses to give up, continuing to fight with every ounce of strength he has left.]
BODIE SULLIVAN: “Vanderkaay is really starting to take over this fight. He’s landing clean strikes and Saint-Cyr is struggling to keep up.”
BYRON McCALL: “He’s using his reach advantage to keep Saint-Cyr at bay and he’s making it difficult for him to close the distance. Saint-Cyr is showing a lot of heart, though. Even though he’s taking a lot of punishment, he’s still trying to find a way to turn this fight around. One well-timed strike can change everything.”
[The two fighters exchange blows in a wild flurry of punches, each one trying to gain the upper hand. Vanderkaay is connecting with more and more shots, his fists raining down on Saint-Cyr like a hailstorm. Finally, after what seems like an eternity, the horn sounds, and the fighters are separated.]
[Saint-Cyr’s cutman rushes into the ring, tending to his wounds. It’s clear that he has his work cut out for him. But despite the odds, Saint-Cyr remains determined. He knows that he must fight on, no matter what the cost. And so the battle continues, with both fighters ready to lay everything on the line for victory.]
[Saint-Cyr comes out strong, throwing a barrage of leg kicks, but Vanderkaay blocks them with ease. They exchange wild punches, but nothing seems to land with much force. Vanderkaay throws an incredible haymaker that connects with Saint-Cyr’s head. The force of the punch sends his head snapping backwards, and for a moment, it seems as if he might go down, but Saint-Cyr recovers quickly and blocks Vanderkaay’s next move with confidence. The fighters circle each other in the center of the cage, trying to find an opening. Saint-Cyr leads with a punch, but Vanderkaay evades it and counters with a crisp uppercut followed by a hard jab. Saint-Cyr stumbles back, clearly feeling the impact of the blows.]
BODIE SULLIVAN: “Woooo! That haymaker that Vanderkaay landed was a serious blow, and it looked like it could have ended the fight right there. Saint-Cyr did a great job recovering quickly and blocking Vanderkaay’s next move, though.”
BYRON McCALL: “Yes, it’s clear that Saint-Cyr is trying to be aggressive, but Vanderkaay seems to be doing a good job of evading and countering his moves. He’s still gotta protect himself, especially with that nasty cut over his eye.”
[Vanderkaay takes a step back, breathing heavily and lowering his arms. He looks tired, but he’s not done yet. He lands several good body shots on Saint-Cyr, who is bleeding profusely from a cut above his eye. Vanderkaay throws an unorthodox punch to Saint-Cyr’s torso, hitting his mark. He feints and moves forward to hit with a hook, delivering a crushing blow that rocks Saint-Cyr to his core. But he’s not finished yet. Vanderkaay throws a one-two combo and then fakes a move to fire a big right hand on Saint-Cyr’s chin. The strikes hit home, leaving Saint-Cyr reeling.]
BODIE SULLIVAN: “Vanderkaay is really showing his versatility here, he’s mixing up his punches and keeping Saint-Cyr guessing. Those body shots are going to take their toll on Saint-Cyr’s stamina as the fight goes on.”
BYRON McCALL: “Absolutely, and the cut above Saint-Cyr’s eye is only going to get worse if Vanderkaay keeps landing those hooks. Saint-Cyr needs to find a way to protect himself and get some offense going. He’s taken some big hits, but he’s still on his feet and he’s got some fight left in him.”
[Saint-Cyr tries to fight back, throwing a hook, but he misses his target. Vanderkaay throws a right hand, but it also misses. Just when it seems like he’s lost his momentum, Vanderkaay surprises everyone with a sudden kick, but Saint-Cyr manages to avoid it and lands a counter hook that connects flush with Vanderkaay’s jaw. Vanderkaay doesn’t let the setback faze him, though. He throws a surprise roundhouse punch that catches Saint-Cyr off guard. The force of the blow is like getting hit by a bus, and Saint-Cyr staggers backwards. Vanderkaay throws a looping left hand that stops Saint-Cyr in his tracks, and then suddenly spins around, connecting with a spinning back fist that lands squarely on Saint-Cyr’s chin.]
BODIE SULLIVAN: “Wow, what a back and forth exchange between these two fighters! Saint-Cyr landed a great counter hook, but Vanderkaay’s surprise roundhouse punch really stunned him. It looks like Vanderkaay has regained control of the fight.”
BYRON McCALL: “Vanderkaay can’t get too overly confident now. Saint-Cyr is tough as nails. You give him that window and he’s going to capitalize on it.”
[But Saint-Cyr is tough, and he’s not going down without a fight. He manages to block several of Vanderkaay’s strikes with confidence, but then Vanderkaay throws an uppercut that lands solidly, sending Saint-Cyr stumbling backwards. As the horn sounds, the fighters retreat to their corners. The crowd is on its feet, cheering and applauding the incredible display of skill and strength. It’s clear that this fight is far from over, and anything can happen in the remaining rounds.]
[The atmosphere in the arena was electric as the fighters stepped out from their corners for the fifth and final round. Saint-Cyr’s blood stained the mat, a stark reminder of the intense battle that had been raging for the past few rounds. Noah Vanderkaay’s right eye was bruised and swollen from the punishing blows he had received, but he was determined to come out on top. As the round began, both fighters were wildly hitting the air, looking for an opening to land a decisive blow. Vanderkaay threw a few jabs, but Saint-Cyr was quick to counter with his own punches. Vanderkaay tried a nice one-two combination, but it was blocked by Saint-Cyr. Suddenly, the two fighters engaged in another wild exchange, each landing blows on the other. It was anyone’s game, and it could all end soon if either fighter landed a lucky punch. Vanderkaay was giving it his all, but the punishment he had received was starting to take its toll.]
BODIE SULLIVAN: “This has been an intense fight so far, Byron. Both fighters have been giving it their all, but it’s clear that they’re both feeling the effects. Vanderkaay’s eye is starting to swell shut, and Saint-Cyr has been bleeding since the second round. But they’re both still fighting hard, and neither one is giving up!”
BYRON McCALL: “Both fighters are looking for that one opening to land a decisive blow. Vanderkaay is trying to stick to his game plan and use his jab to create openings, but Saint-Cyr is quick to counter. However, it looks like Vanderkaay is starting to slow down. That pace he has set may be backfiring on him in these championship rounds.”
[Despite this, Vanderkaay continued to fight on, throwing a brilliant combination that Saint-Cyr managed to dodge with some impressive footwork. Vanderkaay then launched a superb haymaker, but Saint-Cyr was able to move aside just in time. Vanderkaay threw a vicious straight left hand that had Saint-Cyr ducking for cover. Vanderkaay took a few seconds to catch his breath, giving Saint-Cyr the chance to throw a body kick that landed solidly. Vanderkaay responded with a stiff jab, but Saint-Cyr was able to duck out of the way. However, Vanderkaay then got sloppy, and Saint-Cyr tried to take advantage with a one-two combination that was ultimately blocked. Vanderkaay didn’t want to let Saint-Cyr get the upper hand, though, and he surprised everyone with a roundhouse punch that was expertly dodged by Saint-Cyr. Vanderkaay then landed a powerful right hand that forced Saint-Cyr to step backwards.]
BODIE SULLIVAN: “Wow, what a back-and-forth exchange we’re seeing here! Vanderkaay came out strong with some impressive combinations, but Saint-Cyr’s footwork is making it difficult for him to land clean shots.”
BYRON McCALL: “Saint-Cyr is finding a really good rhythm that has kept him unscathed. His footwork is really giving Vanderkaay some trouble, and he’s having to work hard to find any openings.”
[But Saint-Cyr wasn’t out of the fight yet, and he managed to avoid a dangerous strike from Vanderkaay and counter with a solid straight. Vanderkaay responded with another brilliant combination, forcing Saint-Cyr to try and defend better. As the fight wore on, Vanderkaay began to get the upper hand, landing blows on Saint-Cyr and opening up with a barrage of combinations that had the crowd on their feet. Saint-Cyr was starting to look a bit groggy, his movements less coordinated than they had been earlier in the fight. Vanderkaay threw a one-two combo, then faked a move to fire a big right hand on the chin. The strike hit home, and Vanderkaay continued to rain down blows on Saint-Cyr. Some of the punches were huge, and Saint-Cyr was struggling to keep up. But then, Vanderkaay accidentally poked Saint-Cyr in the eye with a stiff jab. The referee didn’t see it, and Vanderkaay continued to fight on, faking a move and launching a nice uppercut that landed on Saint-Cyr’s chin. Vanderkaay then tried a hook to the body, hitting Saint-Cyr’s ribs hard. The two fighters continued to trade blows, Vanderkaay looking for angles as he threw jabs that were countered by Saint-Cyr’s punches. But then, Vanderkaay swung for the fences, landing a hit that almost broke Saint-Cyr’s jaw. As the round came to a close, Bruno Alves separated the fighters, and they shook hands before heading back to their corners. The crowd was on their feet, cheering for both fighters, who had given it their all in an epic battle.]
BODIE SULLIVAN: “And this one goes the distance! Lovelie Saint-Cyr rallied back in the fifth round, but that poke in the eye didn’t help.”
BYRON McCALL: “Not at all, Bodie. I think you could give him this round, like you said he definitely rallied back. However, I’m not sure if it’s going to be enough to grab the dub. Ever since he got cut over the eye, he had a really hard time defensively, and wasn’t really creating much offense. We’ll have to wait and see how the judges score it.”
[As the deafening sound of the final horn echoes through the arena, the air crackles with excitement and anticipation. The raucous cheers of the crowd drown out all other noise as both fighters stagger towards their respective corners, their bodies aching and drenched in sweat. They cling onto the top of the fence, gasping for precious breaths of air as their exhausted limbs tremble with fatigue. With bated breath, the ringside physicians rush towards each corner, their faces tense with concern. They meticulously examine each fighter, their trained eyes scanning every inch of their battered bodies for any signs of life-threatening injuries. But thankfully, despite some cuts and swelling that are certainly manageable for now, neither warrior appears to require immediate medical attention. After a few moments, the doctors retreat from the cage, their work done for the time being. The two fighters lock eyes once more as they make their way back to the center of the octagon, ready to face their fate. Every muscle in their bodies tenses as they wait for the official announcement of the decision, their hearts racing with adrenaline and anxiety.]
MIKE DEMPSEY: “Ladies and gentlemen, after five rounds, we go to the judges’ scorecards for a decision. The judges have scored it 48-47, 48-47, and 49-46, declaring your winner by unanimous decision, AAAAAAAND NEEEWW undisputed Union Grand Prix Middleweight Champion of the World, “The Mauler” Noah Vanderkaay!”
[Lovelie Saint-Cyr, the hometown hero, was the reigning champion, and the spectators had come to expect nothing less than a win from him. But this time, the bout had a different outcome, one that would leave the crowd in a frenzy of emotions. As the referee’s hand went up in the air, crowning the new champion, and Union GP Founder Dante Reed wrapped the title belt around the new champion’s waist, the crowd erupted in a chorus of boos. Saint-Cyr, who had been standing confidently less than a half hour ago, now looked like he was about to collapse. His shoulders slumped, and he looked like he had aged ten years in a matter of seconds. The weight of defeat was crushing him. But then something remarkable happened. The new champion, a relative newcomer to the scene, stepped forward and offered LSC a hand. Lovelie embraced the offer, and the two men shared a moment of mutual respect and admiration. It was an exceptional display of sportsmanship, one that would change the minds of many in the crowd. First, there were murmurs of appreciation, and then there were tentative cheers. Finally, as the two competitors separated to join their respective teams, the crowd erupted into a thunderous round of applause. The commentators took over, reviewing the bout and dissecting the statistics. Meanwhile, a visual display showed the fight in all its glory, highlighting the moments of triumph and defeat.]
JUDGE KORDELL REYNOLDS
Lovelie Saint-Cyr 10 9 9 9 10: 47
Noah Vanderkaay 9 10 10 10 9: 48
JUDGE OTTO PORTER
Lovelie Saint-Cyr 10 9 9 9 10: 47
Noah Vanderkaay 9 10 10 10 9: 48
JUDGE ERICA WYNN
Lovelie Saint-Cyr 9 9 9 9 10: 46
Noah Vanderkaay 10 10 10 10 9: 49
Winner: Noah Vanderkaay by Unanimous Decision
Statistics: Lovelie Saint-Cyr
Punches 26/60 (43%)
Kicks 3/8 (38%)
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 29 s
Statistics: Noah Vanderkaay
Punches 160/231 (69%)
Kicks 1/2 (50%)
Clinch strikes 1/2 (50%)
Takedowns 0/0 (0%)
GnP strikes 0/0 (0%)
Submissions 0/0 (0%)
Clinch Attempts 0/0 (0%)
Time on the ground 0 s
[As the fight concluded, Bodie Sullivan, the renowned Union GP commentator, approached the newly crowned Middleweight Champion, Noah Vanderkaay, with a microphone in his hand. The champion was visibly exhausted but elated after his impressive performance, and Bodie darted through the heavily crowded octagon for a quick word.]
BODIE SULLIVAN: “Ladies and gentlemen, I’m here with the winner AND NEW Union GP Middleweight Champion, Noah Vanderkaay! Congratulations, Noah, on an impressive performance tonight. How are you feeling?”
NOAH VANDERKAAY: “Thank you, Bodie. I’m feeling great, a little beat up but it was all worth it. Lovelie is a tough competitor and I knew it was going to be a war in there tonight.”
BODIE SULLIVAN: “Speaking of, you were facing a native here of Michigan and the crowd was heavily in his favor. Did that affect your game plan at all?”
NOAH VANDERKAAY: “Not at all, Bodie. I knew what I was up against and I was prepared for it. I’m just here to do my job and compete at the highest level and give everything I have for these fans. The crowd was amazing and they really pushed Lovelie to give it his all, but I just had to stay focused and stick to my game plan.”
BODIE SULLIVAN: “You seemed to really control the pace of the fight, landing some heavy shots and keeping Lovelie on the defensive. Was that part of your strategy going into the fight?”
NOAH VANDERKAAY: “Definitely. I knew Lovelie was a strong and aggressive striker and had some serious power in those hands, so I wanted to keep him on his back foot and make him work for everything. I knew I could outlast him and keep the pressure on him.”
BODIE SULLIVAN: “You certainly did just that, Noah. You took home the unanimous decision victory after five grueling rounds. What’s next for you? Any fighters you have your eye on?”
NOAH VANDERKAAY: “Right now, I’m just taking it all in, Bodie. This win means everything to me and I want to enjoy it for a while. I know the division is really opening up, and there’s a lot of names out there that are deserving of a title fight. But if Lovelie wants a rematch, I’d be more than happy to run it back with him. He’s a great fighter and he deserves a shot.”
BODIE SULLIVAN: “That’s a very respectful offer, Noah. You’re a true class act. Thank you for an unbelievable performance tonight and again, congratulations on becoming the new Middleweight Champion…”
NOAH VANDERKAAY: “One last thing. I just want to thank everyone here in Detroit who came out here tonight. It’s been an awesome night. And I want to thank my coaches and my teammates. I couldn’t have done this without all of you. And to all the young fighters out there, keep chasing your dreams and never give up. Anything is possible if you believe in yourself.”
BODIE SULLIVAN: “There you have it, folks! Give it up for your new Middleweight Champion, Noah Vanderkaay!”
[By the time the interview was over, Noah’s words were met with a mostly respectful applause, and Bodie wrapped up the interview by congratulating him one last time. Vanderkaay then parted to meet with his coaches and teammates, who all celebrated together for bringing home another championship to Twin Cities MMA.]
BODIE SULLIVAN: “Welcome back, fight fans! We’re coming to you live from The Motor City, and what an amazing night it has been so far!”
BYRON McCALL: “That’s an understatement, Bodie. We’ve just witnessed the crowning of a new Middleweight Champion in a five round war, but it’s not over just yet! We’ve got our Main Event still to come.”
BODIE SULLIVAN: “And speaking of Main Events, we’ve got some exciting news to share. Union Grand Prix’s next supercard is just around the corner, and it’s going to be a must-see.”
BYRON McCALL: “That’s right, Bodie. UGP 44 is coming to Mexico City for the first time in three years, and the Main Event is going to be a Bantamweight Championship Grand Prix finals showdown. Newly crowned Redd Lennox will defend her title for the first time against former Bantamweight Title Challenger, Isabel Azevedo.”
BODIE SULLIVAN: “That’s going to be an incredible fight, and we can’t wait to see it. And speaking of, we got the Brazilian native Isabel Azevedo in the house tonight!”
BYRON McCALL: “Isabel Azevedo is no stranger to the UGP fans. She’s a fierce competitor and an incredibly skilled fighter. I’m sure she’s gonna give Redd Lennox a run for her money, we know she’s been hungry to get back in the title picture.”
BODIE SULLIVAN: “Absolutely, B. Isabel Azevedo is a true warrior, and we can’t wait to see what she does next. But for now, let’s get back to the action for our Heavyweight Championship Main Event!”
♫
THROUGH EARLY MORNING FOG I SEE
VISIONS OF THE THINGS TO BE
THE PAINS THAT ARE WITHHELD FOR ME
I REALIZE AND I CAN SEE
♫
[As the arena falls silent, the sound of Johnny Mandel’s haunting “Suicide is Painless” echoes through the speakers, signaling the arrival of Billy Tweeds. Slowly but surely, the towering figure emerges from the darkness, his gaze fixed ahead, and his focus unbreakable.]
♫
THAT SUICIDE IS PAINLESS
IT BRINGS ON MANY CHANGES
AND I CAN TAKE OR LEAVE IT
IF I PLEASE
♫
[Tweeds walks with a measured pace, his steps precise and controlled. The sound of his footsteps resonates throughout the arena, as the crowd watches in awe. Billy’s calm and collected demeanor stands in stark contrast to the raucous energy of the arena, and the tension in the air is palpable.]
BODIE SULLIVAN: “Here we go, folks! This is it! Making his way to the octagon now, the Alaskan Assassin, “200 Proof” Billy Tweeds! This man is known for his lethal one-punch knockout power. He’s a dangerous striker with lightning-fast hands and excellent footwork. He got a late start to his pro career, due to an unfortunate past.”
BYRON McCALL: “Yeah, Bodie. Billy has had a bit of a rocky road to get here. He spent some time in prison for a violent altercation, but since his release, he’s been nothing but dedicated to the sport. He’s been on a tear since his debut, racking up big wins against some very tough opponents. At the end of the day, the journey has brought him to this moment, the biggest opportunity in his career. I’m sure he’s prepared and ready to leave it all out there.”
[As he approaches the cageside area, Billy takes a deep breath, exhaling slowly then dresses down to his fight gear. He swings around and faces his coaches, and they give him one final pep talk. He shifts back to the official, ready to be inspected. The crowd’s roar fades due to the sheer aura of the intimidating figure. Billy is once again in his own world. He takes a moment to reflect on his training, to center himself, and to prepare for the battle that is about to begin. Once he’s been cleared, Tweeds stoically climbs the steps, and heads straight to his corner. Tweeds doesn’t move a muscle as he glares at the entrance stage, awaiting his opponent.]
♫
HERE I COME AGAIN NOW BABY
LIKE A DOG IN HEAT
YOU CAN TELL IT’S ME BY THE CLAMOR NOW BABY
I LIKE TO TEAR UP THE STREETS
NOW I BEEN SMOKIN’ FOR SO LONG
YOU KNOW I’M HERE TO STAY
GOT YOU IN A STRANGLEHOLD BABY
YOU BEST GET OUTTA THE WAY
♫
[As the crowd rumbles with anticipation, the lights in the arena begin to flicker, then suddenly shut off completely. The crowd roared with excitement as the sound of guitar riffs filled the air. The opening notes of Ted Nugent’s “Stranglehold” boomed through the stadium’s speakers, signaling the cue of Gauge Lattimore, the hometown hero and Heavyweight Champion. From behind the curtains, Lattimore emerges, donning a black and blue robe with his nickname, “Lights Out” emblazoned in bold letters on the back. He strides confidently towards the Octagon, accompanied by his team of cornermen and coaches, all of whom wear matching black and blue attire.]
BODIE SULLIVAN: “And with the final walkout of the night, here he is walking out to an iconic song from the Motor City Madman, the Heavyweight Champion of the World, Gauge Lattimore! Listen to this crowd, B, there’s no question who the hometown hero is. Lattimore has the entire city rallying behind him as he looks to make his first title defense tonight.”
BYRON McCALL: “Lattimore is a former Union GP Cruiserweight Champion, and he’s also a former G2 Grand Champion, making him a three-division champion across two promotions. And let’s not forget, Bodie, that Lattimore is currently the #1 ranked pound-for-pound fighter in the world. This guy is the real deal. The total package.”
BODIE SULLIVAN: “Absolutely, B. Lattimore has a high motor and a high volume striking style that is absolutely relentless. He’s a heavy hitter with knockout power in both hands. That’s what allowed him to reach these heights.”
[As Lattimore approaches the cage, the official intercepts him for a mandatory inspection. The referee checks his gloves, wraps, cup, and mouthguard, ensuring that everything is secure and safe for both fighters. Lattimore takes this moment to psych himself up, bouncing on his toes and shadowboxing in place, while the crowd continues to cheer him on. After passing the inspection, Lattimore proceeds to the entrance of the Octagon, where he stops and takes a moment to soak in the energy of the crowd. He pumps his fist in the air, igniting an even louder roar from his supporters. He then climbs up the steps and into the cage, where he casually walks over to his corner, ready for battle.]
MIKE DEMPSEY: “Ladies and gentlemen, it’s time for the Main Event of the evening! Sanctioned by the Michigan Unarmed Combat Commission, our three judges scoring this contest at cageside are Kordell Reynolds, Otto Porter, Erica Wynn, 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 Little Caesars Arena in Detroit, Michigan, streaming exclusively on the Battleground Network…”
IT’S TIME!
MIKE DEMPSEY: “The following contest is scheduled for five rounds and it is for the undisputed Union Grand Prix Heavyweight Championship! Introducing first, fighting out of the blue corner, a Boxer holding a professional mixed martial arts record of eight wins, four losses. He stands 6’6”, and weighing in at 265 pounds. He is from Anchorage, Alaska, fighting out of Red Rock Fighting — presenting the number two ranked Heavyweight Contender in the World, “200 Proof” Billy Tweeds!”
[The boo birds come out in full force! In the blue corner, a terrifying Billy Tweeds stands with his back to the roaring audience, lost in his own thoughts. He’s sweating profusely, his muscles tense as he prepares himself for the upcoming battle. With each passing second, the animosity in the air grows, as if the arena itself was about to erupt into anarchy. Billy’s coaches stand behind him just outside the fence, barking out instructions and encouragement, but Billy is barely listening. He’s locked in a battle with his own mind, trying to silence the doubts and fears that threaten to overwhelm him.]
[In a sudden burst of energy, Billy begins to beat himself up, smacking his own face, body and legs with his fists. The sound of flesh hitting flesh echoes through the arena, and the crowd falls silent, watching in shock and awe as the young fighter brutalizes himself. But to Billy, this is just another part of his pre-fight ritual, a way to psych himself up and get ready for the fight ahead. As he rains blow after blow upon his own body, he feels a surge of adrenaline and determination coursing through his veins, drowning out the doubts and fears that had plagued him just moments before.]
MIKE DEMPSEY: “And his opponent, fighting out of the red corner, a Boxer holding a professional mixed martial arts record of twenty-three wins, four losses. He stands 6’3”, and weighing in at 245 pounds. He is from The Motor City — Detroit, Michigan, fighting out of Gold Blooded MMA — presenting THE REIGNING, DEFENDING, UNDISPUTED Union Grand Prix Heavyweight Champion of the World, Gauge “Lights Out” Lattimore!”
[Gauge Lattimore let out a primal roar that shook the very foundations of the building. The crowd responded in kind, their cheers and applause threatening to bring the roof crashing down. With a fierce intensity in his eyes, he pounded his chest like a silverback gorilla, asserting his dominance and intimidating his opponent. He wasn’t here to play games – he was here to win. And so, with a few sharp punches to his own forehead to get himself even more fired up, Lattimore prepared to face off against his opponent.]
BODIE SULLIVAN: “And here we go, ladies and gentlemen. History is up for grabs!”
[The referee in charge makes his way to the center of the cage. The roar of the crowd echoes through the stadium, adding to the already electric atmosphere. The two fighters make their way to the center of the cage, their eyes locked onto each other with intensity and determination. Colin Davenport stands tall and confident, his eyes scanning the fighters to ensure they are ready for what’s about to come. Mike Dempsey stands behind the referee, holding the microphone with a steady hand.]
COLIN DAVENPORT: “Alright gentlemen, we’ve gone through the rules in the back. Any questions from you, red? Any questions from you, blue? Remember to protect yourself at all times, follow my instructions, touch gloves if you wish and let’s have a good, clean fight.”
[In that moment, the arena seemed to take on a life of its own, the atmosphere electric with excitement and anticipation. The crowd was on the edge of their seats, their hearts pounding with adrenaline as they waited to see what was to come. Both fighters touch gloves and march back to their corners. Both knew this was their moment to shine, to show the world that they were true warriors in every sense of the word. The stage was set, the battle lines drawn, and they were ready to take on whatever came their way with courage, strength, and a determination that would not be denied.]
[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, Colin Davenport checks off with each fighter one last time, ensuring they are both ready for the challenge that lies ahead.]
[The atmosphere in the arena was electric as Gauge Lattimore and Billy Tweeds stepped into the center of the octagon for their highly anticipated fight. The crowd was on their feet, shouting and cheering for their favorite fighter as the two men touched gloves in the center. With a fierce determination in his eyes, Lattimore feinted and moved forward, unleashing a powerful hook that landed with a sickening thud. Tweeds showed no signs of slowing down, though, as he countered with a bone-shattering straight left hand that rocked Lattimore to his core.]
BODIE SULLIVAN: “Oh damn! That hook from Lattimore was a thing of beauty!”
BYRON McCALL: “It definitely landed flush, but Tweeds is still standing and he fires right back with that left hand! That was a huge shot!”
[Suddenly, Lattimore spun around, connecting with a spinning back fist that caught Tweeds right on the chin. The impact was so intense that Tweeds lost his balance and went crashing to the mat. Despite being on the ground, Tweeds refused to give up, trying desperately to get back on his feet. Lattimore, however, was relentless, launching a series of kicks and hooks that kept Tweeds pinned down. After a long battle between the two fighters, Tweeds finally managed to get back on his feet, but it was clear that he was still a bit loopy from the punishment he had received. Lattimore, sensing an opening, delivered a big right hand that landed squarely on Tweeds’ chin.]
BODIE SULLIVAN: “Gauge Lattimore scores the knock down on Billy Tweeds with a perfectly timed spinning back fist!”
BYRON McCALL: “Tweeds gets back to his feet and he’s showing a lot of heart, but he’s gotta be more careful.”
[As the fight wore on, Lattimore continued to find openings in Tweeds’ defense, punishing his ribs with a series of devastating hooks. Tweeds fought back with everything he had, but it was clear that Lattimore was controlling this fight with his precision, accuracy, and agility. Lattimore showed excellent timing and unleashed a powerful right hand that connected with Tweeds’ jaw, causing him to stumble and slip to the ground. Lattimore, still standing, gestured for Tweeds to stand up. As Tweeds climbed to his feet, Lattimore appeared hesitant, as if he was giving his opponent the opportunity to strike. The two exchanged blows wildly, but Lattimore was connecting with a few punches, causing Tweeds to backpedal.]
BODIE SULLIVAN: “That right hand from Lattimore was a game-changer. Tweeds is struggling to keep up.”
BYRON McCALL: “It looks like Lattimore is being cautious, though. He doesn’t want to get too reckless and give Tweeds an opening.”
BODIE SULLIVAN: “I don’t blame him. Tweeds is still dangerous, even when he’s hurt.”
[Suddenly, Lattimore spun around and landed a spinning back fist directly on Tweeds’ chin. It was a crushing blow that left Tweeds reeling. Undeterred, Tweeds launched a kick, but Lattimore expertly avoided it and countered with a hook that landed flush. Lattimore was firing on all cylinders now, launching a superman punch that packed some serious power. He followed it up with a series of tentative punches, taking the best of a brief exchange. But then, with bone-shattering force, Lattimore landed a straight right hand that sent Tweeds stumbling backwards.]
BODIE SULLIVAN: “Another spinning back fist puts Billy Tweeds on skates! That was a huge blow. Tweeds needs to regroup quickly or this fight could be over soon.”
BYRON McCALL: “Tweeds is trying to fight back, but Lattimore’s defense is too good. He’s countering every move Tweeds makes. Lattimore is in complete control of this fight.”
[Tweeds was determined not to go down without a fight, and he blocked Lattimore’s next spinning move with confidence. However, Tweeds missed a step, and Lattimore saw an opportunity to counter him. He grabbed Tweeds’ right leg, attempting to take him down. Tweeds lost his balance and fell to the ground. Lattimore quickly capitalized on the situation, moving to a side mount over Tweeds. He tried to transition to full mount, and after a nice move, he succeeded. From full mount, Lattimore was in complete control of the situation despite Tweeds’ efforts to escape.]
BODIE SULLIVAN: “Woah, what do we have here? A takeown from Gauge Lattimore?!”
BYRON McCALL: “If anyone placed a prop bet for a takedown in this fight, they just hit big!”
[As the round came to a close, Colin Davenport signaled for the fighters to go to their corners. As the fighters retreated to their corners, the crowd roared with excitement, eager to see what would happen in the next round. Despite the physical toll that the fight had taken on both men, it was clear that they were both in it for the long haul, and the next round promised to be even more intense than the first.]
[The atmosphere inside the arena was buzzing as Billy Tweeds and Gauge Lattimore closed the distance to start round two. Billy Tweeds wasted no time, launching a couple of quick jabs followed by a big hook. Lattimore was quick to block the punches and tried to circle around his opponent, looking for an opening. Before long, Lattimore found an opportunity to strike with a ferocious straight left hand that echoed through the arena.]
BODIE SULLIVAN: “That was a powerful shot from Lattimore! Tweeds looks a bit stunned after that one. Thatleft hand connected flush. Tweeds needs to be careful now, he can’t let Lattimore get too comfortable with his range.”
BYRON McCALL: “Tweeds is not backing down. He’s throwing some heavy shots of his own, and Lattimore is gotta be careful. All it takes is one to land and this fight could be over in an instant.”
[Lattimore continued to press the attack. He knew he could end the fight at any moment, and he was relentless in his pursuit. He found another opening in Tweeds’ defense and launched a big hook that connected with a loud “bang!” Tweeds stumbled, clearly hurt by the crushing shot to his body. But Tweeds wasn’t out of the fight yet. He tried to fight back with a left hook, but it fell short. Lattimore responded with an incredible haymaker that snapped Tweeds’ head backwards. The two fighters engaged in a wild exchange of punches, with Lattimore getting the better of the exchange as he landed several blows.]
BODIE SULLIVAN: “We got a firefight on our hands! Lattimore is landing two, three shots to every one of Tweeds.”
BYRON McCALL: “Yeah, it’s like Tweeds is fighting on pure instinct now. He’s not thinking, just swinging wildly. And that’s not going to work against someone as skilled as Lattimore. He’s picking his shots and landing with precision.”
[Despite their efforts, neither fighter seemed to be able to land a knockout punch. Lattimore was in the zone, and he saw an opening to deliver a big right hand that staggered Tweeds. Lattimore followed up with a flurry of jabs and crosses, clearly looking to capitalize on his opponent’s weakened state. Tweeds followed Lattimore, hoping to get in a counter-punch, but he was met with a crushing hook that almost lifted him off the ground. Tweeds was a bloody mess, and he needed to change his strategy if he wanted to avoid being knocked out.]
BODIE SULLIVAN: “He’s got him cornered and he’s just pummeling him with those jabs and crosses! Lattimore is just too quick for him.”
BYRON McCALL: “Tweeds needs to do something here. He’s taking too much punishment, and he’s not even trying to defend himself.”
[The two fighters continued to engage in a wild exchange of punches, with Lattimore getting the upper hand once again. He landed several blows that left Tweeds reeling, with a small but deep cut on his right cheek and a rapidly swelling eye. Lattimore launched another couple of jabs and a big hook that hit Tweeds hard on the cheek, causing him to stumble and fall to the mat. Lattimore stood over his opponent, launching a barrage of kicks to Tweeds’ thigh that all snapped with a loud pop.]
BODIE SULLIVAN: “Lattimore sits him down with a big right hook! And now, he’s really punishing Tweeds with those kicks to the thigh.”
BYRON McCALL: “Billy Tweeds has got a nasty cut and that eye is swelling up really bad. He can’t see a thing out there right now.”
[The sound of the horn signaled the end of the round, and the fighters were instructed to return to their corners. The crowd erupted into applause, ready for more, but there was clearly a lot of work to be done if Billy Tweeds was going to make it through the rest of the fight. The cutman would have his work cut out for him as he tried to patch up Tweeds’ battered face and get him ready for the next round.]
[The atmosphere in the arena ramped back up as the third round began. The crowd was on its feet, cheering and shouting, as Gauge Lattimore and Billy Tweeds faced off once again. Tweeds had taken a lot of punishment in the previous two rounds, and it was clear that he was struggling. His face was battered and bruised, with blood trickling down his chin and staining the mat. But despite the damage he had sustained, Tweeds was not willing to give up just yet.]
BODIE SULLIVAN: “Tweeds is looking rough out there. Lattimore is really putting a pace on him.”
BYRON McCALL: “Tweeds is a tough guy, but I don’t know how much more he can take. He’s got heart, but he’s running out of steam and taking a lot of unnecessary damage.”
[As Lattimore launched a furious hook, Tweeds tried to dodge it, but it was too late. The blow hit him like a wrecking ball, sending him crashing to the ground. He lay there, dazed and confused, as Lattimore stood over him, ready to deliver the finishing blow. But Tweeds was not done yet. With blood streaming down his face, he tried to stand up, but Lattimore was quick to prevent him from doing so. The two fighters were locked in a fierce struggle, with Lattimore launching kicks to Tweeds’ thigh before deciding to create some space for him to stand up.]
BODIE SULLIVAN: “Wow, what a devastating blow from Lattimore! Tweeds looked like he was out for a moment, but he recovered for the time being.”
BYRON McCALL: “Lattimore is creating some space for Tweeds to stand back up. Smart move on Gauge’s part, but I don’t know how much longer this goes on before the referee decides to step in. Billy Tweeds needs a Hail Mary play right now.”
[As the clock ticked down, Lattimore continued to dominate the fight, delivering crushing blows that left Tweeds reeling. Tweeds refused to give up, even as his legs wobbled and his head spun from the force of Lattimore’s attacks. The two locked horns in a clinch and the pace slowed down a bit, allowing both to catch a quick breather.]
BODIE SULLIVAN: “That’s probably the best case scenario for Billy Tweeds. Slow the pace down, catch your breath and regroup.”
BYRON McCALL: “Billy better find something, and fast. If he doesn’t start mounting some offense soon, this fight could be stopped.”
[In a last-ditch effort to turn the tide of the fight, Tweeds tried to break free from Lattimore’s clinch and move away. But Lattimore was relentless, pushing him forward and punishing him with a series of brutal uppercuts that left Tweeds unable to defend himself. Finally, the referee stepped in, ending the fight and declaring Lattimore the winner. As the crowd erupted in cheers and applause, Lattimore stood in the center of the octagon, victorious but exhausted, his body covered in sweat and blood.]
BODIE SULLIVAN: “And it is all over! Wow, what a performance by Lattimore! What a moment! Detroit, you’re boy got it done!”
BYRON McCALL: “Billy Tweeds just couldn’t handle Lattimore’s power and aggression tonight. Right from the jump, he was playing catch up the whole time. The guy is tough as nails and you gotta tip your hat for him lasting for as long as he did under those circumstances. A majority of the heavyweight field would have crumbled inside that first round, but Tweeds had no answers tonight.”
[Lattimore walks off nonchalantly while the crowd erupts into deafening cheers. The medical team quickly enters the octagon to attend to Billy Tweeds. After a brief examination, Tweeds is able to regain his 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 Colin Davenport has called for a stop in this fight at one minute thirty-seven seconds in the third round, declaring your winner by technical knockout, AAAAAAAND STIIIIIIILL the undisputed Union Grand Prix Heavyweight Champion of the World, Gauge “Lights Out” Lattimore!”
[The audience erupts in applause as Lattimore is declared the winner. He has his hand raised high in the air and the championship belt wrapped around his waist by Union GP Founder Dante Reed. 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: Gauge Lattimore by TKO (Punches) at 1:37 Round 3
Statistics: Gauge Lattimore
Punches 61/77 (79%)
Kicks 12/17 (71%)
Clinch strikes 5/6 (83%)
Takedowns 1/1 (100%)
GnP strikes 0/0 (0%)
Submissions 0/0 (0%)
Clinch Attempts 0/0 (0%)
Time on the ground 26 s
Statistics: Billy Tweeds
Punches 4/16 (25%)
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 239 s
[The crowd was continuing to roar as Gauge Lattimore, still drenched in sweat from his impressive win, was greeted by Bodie Sullivan, who was looking to get a quick word from the Champ.]
BODIE SULLIVAN: “Ladies and gentlemen, I am here with the winner AND STILL undisputed Heavyweight Champion, Gauge Lattimore! Gauge, tell us, you rocked Billy Tweeds early in the fight. Did you get a sense that you were on the verge of putting this one away quickly, and did you have to adjust as the fight continued to go along?”
GAUGE LATTIMORE: “Woo! Aye, listen. Billy Tweeds is a tough motherfucker! Like you said, I sat him down early in the first round with that spinning back fist. I’ve won plenty of fights that way. When he went down, I thought I had him in my scope, but the bastard kept on coming. Mad respect to Billy, man. The guy is a zombie.”
BODIE SULLIVAN: “You came out strong in the first round, but Tweeds did clip you with a big left hand that wobbled you. Did you feel like you were in any danger?”
GAUGE LATTIMORE: “Yeah, I ain’t gonna lie. When he hit me, my vision cut off for a second there. I was just seeing static, but I got myself back on track. I felt like I had to do some things I haven’t really done before in a pro fight. I went for the takedown late in the first round, I really was just trying to kill the clock and get back to my corner. Same thing with the clinch. I was really just trying to catch my breath, but I saw an opening and took it then just didn’t stop. I could feel his strength fading with each shot, so I figured the more I kept at it, I could get him outta there.”
BODIE SULLIVAN: “Your game plan certainly worked, it definitely surprised us on the broadcast. You’ve had quite the journey to get to where you are now. What does it mean to you to have retained your title tonight here in your hometown?”
GAUGE LATTIMORE: “It means everything. This is what I’ve been working for my whole life. I couldn’t have done it without my team and all of the fans who have supported me along the way. I love you all!”
BODIE SULLIVAN: “Well, Gauge, I think I speak for everyone here tonight when I say that was one hell of a fight. When can we expect to see you again, and do you have any names you have in mind?”
GAUGE LATTIMORE: “I’ll say this, I don’t want to wait around for another four months. I want to get right back in there as soon as I’m medically cleared. I think once I rest up a little bit, I’m ready to go. I saw Kennard Rozier call out Owen Barnes. If that fight doesn’t go through, gimme one of them, I don’t care. We can run it back with Barnes or bring in Rozier. If not one of them, gimme Big Dom. He looked good tonight, he beat Joey Byrne who was top five. I don’t care who it is. I just wanna fight!”
BODIE SULLIVAN: “Well, Gauge, we hope to find the answers to those questions soon. It’s an honor to call your fights as always. Congratulations again on retaining your title, and we can’t wait to see what’s next for you. Ladies and gentlemen, give it up for your Heavyweight Champion, Gauge Lattimore!”
GAUGE LATTIMORE: “Aye, D Town stay down! We on top, ain’t never gonna stop!”
[Gauge’s passion and intensity was contagious, infecting every person in the arena with his excitement. The camera feed inched backward, revealing an arena pulsing with fanatical fans, each of them delirious over the heart-stopping brawl they had just witnessed. The scene crackled with energy, as a wave of camera flashes ignited the arena. As the feed slowly faded, the air lingered with triumphant ecstasy, leaving viewers teetering on the edge of their seats, salivating for the next epic showdown in the brutal 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.]
