ROUND ONE: Jethro Benson and Regis Pierre Paul come out swinging. Benson launches a hook to the body, but RPP evades it and delivers a brutal combination that wobbles Benson’s legs. RPP takes advantage and lands a huge hook on Benson’s chin, sending him to the mat. RPP doesn’t let up and lands two loud kicks to Benson’s thigh before allowing him to get back up. Benson fires an unorthodox punch, but RPP counters with a powerful one-two combo followed by a fake and a big right hand on the chin. Benson’s chin is swelling, and he has a cut on it. The two fighters engage in a wild exchange of punches, with RPP getting the better of it. RPP throws a looping left hand that lands on Benson’s chin, leaving him staggered with a cut on his right eye. RPP takes advantage and hits Benson with a crushing hook that almost lifts him off the ground. But Benson keeps coming forward, only to get countered by RPP’s looping right hand that stops him in his tracks. Benson has a cut on his left eye, and his movements are not very coordinated now. RPP dodges another strike and delivers a crushing hook that finally lands the knockout blow on Benson. Benson is down and has been absolutely destroyed by RPP.
Winner: Regis Pierre Paul by KO (Hook) at 2:49 Round 1
Statistics: Regis Pierre Paul
Punches 24/28 (86%)
Kicks 2/2 (100%)
Clinch strikes 0/0 (0%)
Takedowns 0/0 (0%)
GnP strikes 0/0 (0%)
Submissions 0/0 (0%)
Clinch Attempts 0/0 (0%)
Time on the ground 0 s
Statistics: Jethro Benson
Punches 0/7 (0%)
Kicks 0/0 (0%)
Clinch strikes 0/0 (0%)
Takedowns 0/0 (0%)
GnP strikes 0/0 (0%)
Submissions 0/0 (0%)
Clinch Attempts 0/0 (0%)
Time on the ground 29 s
ROUND ONE: The fight began with a touch of gloves, and Santos de Lima wasted no time in trying to take the fight to the ground. He went for a single leg takedown, and Tuiasosopo could not remain on his feet and fell to the ground. Santos de Lima immediately took advantage of this and got into an open guard position over Tuiasosopo. But Tuiasosopo fought back, working on the ground with his fingers over Santos de Lima’s face. Despite this, Santos de Lima remained composed and tried to pass to half guard. Tuiasosopo couldn’t prevent him from passing, and Santos de Lima looked to work from half guard. Santos de Lima then went for an Americana, but Tuiasosopo managed to break free. Santos de Lima got sloppy, and Tuiasosopo tried to take advantage by getting an arm around Santos de Lima’s neck in a guillotine choke. But Santos de Lima lifted him from the ground with great power and down he went. Tuiasosopo didn’t break the lock, and Santos de Lima was running out of time. He pushed Tuiasosopo back to the ground and tried to take his back. Santos de Lima locked up a rear naked choke, and Tuiasosopo was in pain. His right cheek was bruised after the punishment he had received. But Tuiasosopo managed to spin out and get back to his feet, and the fight continued on their feet. Santos de Lima swung hard and connected with a few punches. The two fighters continued to exchange wildly, and Santos de Lima was connecting with some powerful punches. He then faked a punch and shot a takedown, and Tuiasosopo sprawled but could not prevent Santos de Lima from taking him down. Santos de Lima tried to pass to half guard and succeeded, then went for an Americana again. He locked it in, and Tuiasosopo was forced to tap.
Winner: Mauro Santos de Lima by Submission (Americana) at 2:02 Round 1
Statistics: Mauro Santos de Lima
Punches 10/13 (77%)
Kicks 0/0 (0%)
Clinch strikes 0/0 (0%)
Takedowns 1/2 (50%)
GnP strikes 0/0 (0%)
Submissions 3/3 (100%)
Clinch Attempts 0/0 (0%)
Time on the ground 60 s
Statistics: Ka’ili Tuiasosopo
Punches 0/7 (0%)
Kicks 0/0 (0%)
Clinch strikes 0/1 (0%)
Takedowns 0/0 (0%)
GnP strikes 0/0 (0%)
Submissions 1/1 (100%)
Clinch Attempts 0/0 (0%)
Time on the ground 60 s
ROUND ONE: The first round sees De Beer come out swinging with a powerful Superman punch, but Sagapolutele quickly counters with some good leg kicks. De Beer tries to maintain his momentum with jabs and hooks, while Sagapolutele circles around him looking for openings. De Beer shows off his agility with a spinning back kick that lands hard on Sagapolutele’s ribs, causing her to buckle like a lawn chair. Sagapolutele tries to counter with some punches of her own, but De Beer dodges and weaves like a pro. However, Sagapolutele manages to land a solid shot to De Beer’s body, visibly causing him pain. The two fighters exchange wild punches and miss terribly, but De Beer refuses to back down and keeps raining punches down on Sagapolutele. Finally, De Beer launches a furious hook that hits Sagapolutele’s chin like a wrecking ball, sending her tumbling to the mat. De Beer stands tall while Sagapolutele struggles to get back to her feet, but she manages to do so just in time to face another rapid series of punches from De Beer. The horn sounds, signaling the end of the round and the referee stops the action.
Isaac Cohen’s Scorecard (Unofficial): 10-9 De Beer
ROUND TWO: In the opening moments of the second round, De Beer landed some impressive shots that stunned Venus, leaving a small laceration on her left cheek. Despite Venus bleeding profusely, she continued to fight on, but De Beer found an opening in her defense and launched a big uppercut that left Venus wobbling. Venus’ face was covered in blood, and she was having trouble seeing as she wiped the blood out of her eyes. But she refused to give up, and De Beer knew he had to keep the pressure up. He launched a furious hook that sent Venus to the mat, and then followed up with two loud kicks to her thigh that echoed throughout the arena. Venus continued to bleed, but De Beer created space and allowed her to stand up, and the two fighters went back to the beginning. De Beer chased Venus and landed a few perfect strikes that sent her stumbling backward. In the final moments of the fight, De Beer delivered a devastating shot, causing Venus to stumble back into the fence. The ref had seen enough and pulled off De Beer, and Venus looked like she was in another dimension as the referee waved off the fight.
Winner: Kian De Beer by TKO (Punch) at 1:43 Round 2
Statistics: Venus Sagapolutele
Punches 4/7 (57%)
Kicks 4/5 (80%)
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 40 s
Statistics: Kian De Beer
Punches 33/57 (58%)
Kicks 3/5 (60%)
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
ROUND ONE: The bout begins with an explosive start as Moon and Benji engage in some quick back-and-forth action. Benji’s high kick misses, causing him to slip and fall, giving Moon an advantage. However, Benji quickly regains his footing and fights back with some well-placed jabs and body shots. Despite Benji’s early dominance, Moon isn’t backing down, and he uses his quick movements and grappling skills to take Benji down to the mat. Moon shows some impressive ground and pound, striking Benji’s midsection with some heavy blows. Benji tries to fight back with hammer punches, but Moon easily blocks them. As the fight progresses, both fighters continue to exchange blows, with Benji’s strikes landing more accurately. Moon tries to use his grappling skills to get the upper hand, but Benji’s solid guard keeps him at bay. After a lack of activity on the ground, the referee stands the fighters up, and they continue the fight standing. Benji lands a solid shot to Moon’s body, but Moon blocks it in time. Benji continues to swing for the fences, but Moon evades his strikes and shoots for a double leg takedown, successfully taking Benji down to the mat. Benji manages to pull Moon into his guard and even rolls to full mount. Benji continues to show some impressive ground work as he takes Moon’s back after a sloppy roll, but unfortunately time Ten out on him. As the buzzer sounds to end the first round, both fighters are exhausted, but the action is far from over.
Isaac Cohen’s Scorecard (Unofficial): 10-9 Meyers
ROUND TWO: Moon started the round with a low kick to maintain distance, but Meyers responded with a flurry of tremendous strikes that Moon expertly blocked. Both fighters showed each other a ton of respect, making for a tense and engaging fight. The action heated up when Meyers landed a bone-shattering straight right hand that sent Moon ducking. Moon then attempted to take Meyers down, successfully bringing him to the ground, but Meyers quickly scrambled back to his feet. The fighters continued to trade blows, with Moon faking a move and landing a low kick that hit Meyers’ ankle. Meyers retaliated with a crisp uppercut and hard jab that Moon deflected. Moon then tried to take the fight to the ground again, successfully bringing Meyers down into an open guard. Moon quickly moved to side mount, then to full mount, where he locked Meyers in an unbreakable Americana submission hold. Meyers struggled to free himself, but ultimately had no choice but to tap out, giving Moon an impressive come-from-behind victory.
Winner: Maddox Moon by Submission (Americana) at 3:04 Round 2
Statistics: Maddox Moon
Punches 5/5 (100%)
Kicks 2/9 (22%)
Clinch strikes 0/0 (0%)
Takedowns 4/4 (100%)
GnP strikes 0/0 (0%)
Submissions 1/1 (100%)
Clinch Attempts 0/0 (0%)
Time on the ground 142 s
Statistics: Benji Meyers
Punches 4/19 (21%)
Kicks 0/1 (0%)
Clinch strikes 0/2 (0%)
Takedowns 0/0 (0%)
GnP strikes 0/1 (0%)
Submissions 0/0 (0%)
Clinch Attempts 0/0 (0%)
Time on the ground 151 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 Arena México in Mexico City and the octagon is officially open for business for UGP 44! Hello everyone and thank you for tuning in. I am Bodie Sullivan and alongside me is the Hall of Fame Legend once again, Byron McCall! Folks, we have an absolutely banger of a lineup in store here in La Ciudad!”
BYRON McCALL: “Bodie, you’ve hit the nail on the head! Get ready because, whether you’re here or watching at home, tonight is going to be an electrifying night of fights that will leave you on the edge of your seat! We’re talking about the 2023 Bantamweight Championship Grand Prix, the culmination of a months-long showdown of the world’s most elite fighters, all vying for the ultimate prize. But that’s not all folks, the card is packed with a laundry list of other top tier match ups that will have major ramifications for the rankings and the future of each division. So grab some snacks, settle in, and get ready for a wild ride, you’re not gonna want to miss a second of this action!”
BODIE SULLIVAN: “The Bantamweight Grand Prix has already treated us to some epic moments, we’ve witnessed a fresh-faced champion rise to the top and we could be in store for another earth-shattering upset! But before we talk about our title fights, let’s begin with our main card opener. To help bookend the main card, we start off in the Bantamweight Division. Get ready to witness the explosive clash between Magdalena Moruga, a hometown hero from Mexico, and the formidable Everest MMA graduate, Alex Hughes. Moruga has got a fire in her belly that’s impossible to ignore. She’s got the grit and determination of a true warrior, and she’s ready to leave it all on the mat. But don’t count Hughes out just yet, this fighter’s got some serious skills up her sleeve. With a track record of being an aggressive striking and a fierce determination to come out on top, she’s a force to be reckoned with.
BYRON McCALL: “Yeah Bodie we’re in for a treat right off the rip. With Moruga suffering that tough loss to Redd Lennox in the Grand Prix, she’s hungry to further distance herself from that performance and make it two in a row in the win column since then. But like you said, don’t sleep on Alex Hughes. This scrappy fighter has some serious grappling skills up her sleeve that could give Moruga a run for her money. In fact, I believe that Alex’s grappling could be the x-factor in this bout, and could even lead to an upset victory if she can pull it off.”
BODIE SULLIVAN: “We stay in the 135-pound division for our next match up as Eugenie Bombelles takes on Ignacio Zambrano. Both of these fighters are looking to build their momentum back up after getting bounced in the Bantamweight Grand Prix, and look to close the gap at the top of the rankings. This could be a make-it-or-break-it moment for both of them, and they’re ready to leave everything they’ve got in the ring. Expect nothing less than an explosive match, filled with adrenaline-pumping action and intense drama.”
BYRON McCALL: “Once again, both of these fighters are lethal strikers, and like you said, are in that top tier of the standings. With the Grand Prix finale capping off the night tonight, the field could be wide open on who the next title contender will be. We don’t know what Gianna Howard will do next, she has talked about making a move to Lightweight, but she’s also got some unfinished business here at 135. The division is stacked and it could be anyone next up with a spectacular performance.”
BODIE SULLIVAN: “The next stop on our journey takes us straight into the heart of the Land of the Behemoths! The towering giants of the octagon, Viktor Volkov and Dax Levandrier, are set to clash in a showdown that will have your eyes glued to the action! With their reputation for devastating knockouts preceding them, it’s no secret that these two titans possess some truly terrifying power. This bout promises to be a wild and chaotic spectacle, with both fighters unleashing all their pent-up aggression in a flurry of brutal punches. So if you’re looking for a good old-fashioned barroom brawl, look no further than this epic clash!”
BYRON McCALL: “Volkov and Levandrier are bringing their A-game, all geared up to potentially become the next title contenders. That’s right, the plot thickens! Although Owen Barnes is currently the reigning number one contender, and Kennard Rozier is preparing for his much-anticipated rematch with the mighty Roscoe Robinson, a massive victory for either Volkov or Levandrier could push Barnes aside and pave the way for a fresh epic face-off with the undisputed champion, Gauge Lattimore.”
BODIE SULLIVAN: “Then we head into the Co-Main Event. Former Middleweight Champion Travis Decker takes on the three-time Everest MMA Welterweight Champion Derrius Webb in a three round thriller. We know it’s not common for a fight to be announced as a title eliminator, but with a new champion at the helm in the 185-pound division, the field is wide open.”
BYRON McCALL: “Either of these guys would be a fresh matchup for Noah Vanderkaay, and both guys are more than deserving of a title fight. It’s a battle between the seasoned veteran and the rising star, who will come out on top? I can’t wait to answer that later tonight!”
BODIE SULLIVAN: “And finally, the Main Event. Redd Lennox shocked the world when she took the 2022 Union GP Fighter of the Year Gianna Howard to the distance in a pretty one-sided five round affair. Tonight she makes her first title defense in the Grand Prix finals against a former title challenger, Isabel Azevedo. The oddsmakers show Lennox to be the favorite, and based on common opponents results and all of that technical data jargon, that is factually true. However, Izzy Azevedo is a type of fighter that Redd Lennox has yet to face on this big stage. Her BJJ is world class and gives even the most experienced grapplers problems.”
BYRON McCALL: “Bodie, my friend, you are spot on! We have all witnessed Redd Lennox’s epic battles with some of the most impressive strikers in the game, but the big question is, how will she fare against the world-class submission specialist, Azevedo? That’s where things get interesting. Izzy is known for her incredible ground game, and Lennox must be on high alert. Will she be able to withstand Azevedo’s relentless attacks and keep the fight on her feet? Or will Azevedo manage to lock in a submission hold and snatch the championship title away from Lennox? There’s no doubt that if Azevedo manages to get Lennox into her comfort zone on the ground, the game could be over in a flash. But Lennox is no pushover, and she’s trained extensively to face this very situation. Who will come out on top in this epic clash of styles?”
BODIE SULLIVAN: “Only time will tell, B! 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 Arena México in Mexico City, Mexico for UGP 44: LENNOX versus AZEVEDO! And now, this opening contest is scheduled for three rounds in the Union Grand Prix Bantamweight Division! Introducing first, fighting out of the blue corner, a Mixed Martial Arts holding a professional mixed martial arts record of thirteen wins, two losses. She stands 5’5”, and weighing in at 131 pounds. She is from Swansea, Wales, fighting out of Renegade MMA, presenting the number nine ranked Bantamweight Contender in the World, “The Dragon” Alex Hughes!
[Alex Hughes paced around in her corner, her heart racing with anticipation. She took a deep breath and closed her eyes, focusing on the rhythmic beat of her own breaths and the steady thump of her heart. Despite the chaos around her, Alex remained composed, her eyes fixed firmly on her opponent. She knew this was going to be a tough fight, but she also knew she was ready for it.]
BODIE SULLIVAN: “Alex Hughes is back in the octagon for her second Union GP fight, looking to establish her dominance in the Bantamweight Division. You might remember her explosive entrance on DRIP, where she raised eyebrows and dropped jaws with her impressive performance. But her shine was dulled by the remarkable comeback of Victoria Marshall in Everest MMA, who proved to be Hughes’ kryptonite. Undeterred, Hughes is now moving up the ranks and has already taken her first victory in Union GP against Tilly Jean Wade. And tonight, she faces her toughest challenge yet, in hostile territory no less!”
BYRON McCALL: “Bodie, you are absolutely right! This is a massive opportunity for Hughes to show us what she’s got. At just twenty years old, she’s still honing her craft and we can’t wait to see her shine. With her well-rounded skills, she’s already making noise in the Bantamweight Division. Let’s not forget her striking, which is truly her bread and butter. And that’s exactly what’s going to be put to the test in this epic showdown. The energy in the arena is electrifying, the crowd is pumped up, and the pressure is on. This is where champions are made, folks. It’s going to be a battle for the ages, and we’re about to witness it right here, right now!”
MIKE DEMPSEY: “And her opponent, fighting out of the red corner, a Muay Thai Kickboxer holding a professional mixed martial arts record of twelve wins, two losses. She stands 5’5”, and weighing in at 135 pounds. She is from Tijuana, Baja California, Mexico, fighting out of Entram, presenting the number seven ranked Bantamweight Contender in the World, “Cold Heart” Magdalena Moruga!”
[As the anticipation builds and the adrenaline courses through her veins, Magdalena Moruga stands in the corner of the ring, her eyes closed tightly as she mentally prepares for the fight of her life. Her fists clench and unclench in a rhythmic pattern, the sound of leather gloves creaking filling the air. The crowd, a sea of passionate supporters, roars with each smack of Magdalena’s hand against her face, body, and legs, urging her on with fervent chants and cheers.
BODIE SULLIVAN: “There’s no question who the favorite in this fight is for this crowd! Magdalena Moruga is the lone Mexican fighter on this card, and it has to be an honor to be the one to set the tone for the night. Moruga is another recent signing that had a lot of hype built up from her time on the regional circuit. She won her Union debut fight against the veteran Yasmine Vermeulen, but she, at the time at least, suffered a shocking upset loss to the eventual new champion Redd Lennox in the opening round of the Bantamweight Championship Grand Prix.”
BYRON McCALL: “Moruga bounced back after that loss with a win over another veteran, Tim Vu, and she’s looking to back it two in a row tonight against a young but very game Alex Hughes. Moruga is tough as nails and has exceptional striking both on the perimeter and inside the clinch. Look for her to do what it takes to keep the fight standing, where she has the best chances of walking out of here the winner.”
[The arena was at a fever pitch as referee Lars Levy signaled the start of the first main card bout. Magdalena Moruga and Alex Hughes moved forward, their eyes locked on each other, each eager to prove their mettle. In a split second, Moruga unleashed a looping right hand, but Hughes was quick to respond, jumping back and jabbing. Moruga looked a bit staggered, and Hughes seized the opportunity, pummeling her with a flurry of jabs and crosses.]
BODIE SULLIVAN: “Wow, Moruga came out strong with that right hand, but Hughes was able to evade it and counter quickly with some nice jabs.”
BYRON McCALL: “Hughes is showing some impressive speed and accuracy here. Moruga looks a bit shaken after that initial exchange.”
[But Moruga wasn’t one to back down easily. She fired low kicks at Hughes, punishing her legs with each blow. However, her right hand was deflected poorly, and Hughes saw her chance to counter with a solid shot to the body. Moruga managed to block in time, but Hughes was already on the move, showing off her footwork as she faked a punch and moved aside to reassess herself. The two fighters continued to size each other up, trading blows and trying to find openings in the other’s defense. Moruga looked for angles as she threw jabs that were countered by Hughes’ punches. Hughes, ultimately, was on the receiving end of a great combo from Moruga.]
BODIE SULLIVAN: “Moruga is really punishing Hughes’ legs with those low kicks. It looks like it’s starting to take a toll on Hughes.”
BYRON McCALL: “Yes, but Hughes just landed a solid shot to the body after Moruga’s right hand was deflected poorly. She’s showing off her footwork and reassessing herself now.”
[The fight got wild and unpredictable, with both fighters hitting the air in a frenzy. Moruga threw brutal combinations, and Hughes was forced to dodge the traffic. Undeterred, Moruga launched a high kick that seemed to catch Hughes off guard. Hughes was reeling, her movements sluggish and uncoordinated, as Moruga delivered a solid straight to her face for good measure. But Hughes wasn’t out of the game yet. She managed to check Moruga’s leg kick and delivered a nice punch of her own, however she got outboxed by Moruga in the ensuing exchange.]
BODIE SULLIVAN: “Wow, Moruga is really going all out with those combinations. Hughes seems to be struggling to keep up.”
BYRON McCALL: “Definitely, Moruga’s high kick caught Hughes off guard and it looks like it really shook her up.”
BODIE SULLIVAN: “Hughes is definitely on the back foot now, but she’s not giving up just yet. That punch she delivered was pretty impressive.”
BYRON McCALL: “Yeah, but Moruga’s just too good in the boxing department. Hughes needs to come up with a different strategy if she wants to turn this around.”
[The two fighters continued to circle around the center of the cage, sizing each other up and waiting for the perfect opportunity to strike. And then, with lightning speed, Moruga launched a rapid series of punches, taking Hughes from one end of the cage to the other. Hughes attempted to cut off Moruga with punches, but she was too quick, too agile. She avoided getting cornered, and the two fighters continued to exchange blows in a wild and unpredictable dance.]
BODIE SULLIVAN: “Moruga is really turning up the heat now. That flurry of punches has Hughes on the back foot.”
BYRON McCALL: “Hughes isn’t backing down though. She’s trying to counter with some punches of her own, but Moruga’s footwork is just too good. Hughes needs to find a way to cut off Moruga’s movement, otherwise, Moruga is just going to keep landing those quick strikes whenever she wants.”
[Moruga delivered a knee out of nowhere that wrecked Hughes, her nose swelling with each passing second. Several good body shots landed on Hughes as she held her side. Moruga tried to grapple with Hughes, and with great timing, she pushed her opponent forward with a double underhooks, the two fighters pummeling in a frenzy for control. Moruga was throwing a flurry of punches, and Hughes just couldn’t get away. Lars Levy had seen enough, and he called the fight. Hughes was not intelligently defending herself, and just like that, the fight was over.]
BODIE SULLIVAN: “Alex Hughes is in a tough spot and it looks like the ref agrees. He’s calling the fight. Hughes wasn’t intelligently defending herself, and that’s the end of it. This one is all over!”
BYRON McCALL: “That’s a tough break for Hughes, but Moruga was just too much for her tonight. Congratulations on a big win here in her home country!”
[Magdalena Moruga was a force to be reckoned with, her body glistening with sweat as she soared up the fence wall with an incredible feat of athleticism to celebrate with the entire arena. The roar of deafening applause for the Mexican native while she celebrated the incredible win was a sight to behold. Amidst the celebration, there was a moment of concern as the Ringside Physicians quickly entered the octagon to attend to the fallen fighter, Alex Hughes. The atmosphere shifted as the audience held their breath, hoping for the best. Magdalena stood anxiously, watching as the physicians conducted a brief examination of her opponent. And then, a collective sigh of relief as Alex was able to regain her footing. The physicians exited 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 Lars Levy has called for a stop in this fight at four minutes four seconds in the very first round, declaring your winner by technical knockout, “Cold Heart” Magdalena Moruga!”
[The referee raised the hand of the winner, and the crowd erupted in thunderous applause. Magdalena Moruga had emerged victorious. Moruga and Hughes exchanged a respectful handshake, each one acknowledging the other’s incredible skill and determination. And then, with a final bow to the audience, they went their separate ways. As the screen displayed a graphic with the fight’s statistics, the commentators gave a summary of the match, their voices filled with admiration for the two incredible fighters. The atmosphere in the arena was one of awe and reverence, as everyone present rallied behind their homegrown talent.]
Winner: Magdalena Moruga by TKO (Punches) at 4:04 Round 1
Statistics: Magdalena Moruga
Punches 24/36 (67%)
Kicks 5/6 (83%)
Clinch strikes 3/5 (60%)
Takedowns 0/0 (0%)
GnP strikes 0/0 (0%)
Submissions 0/0 (0%)
Clinch Attempts 0/0 (0%)
Time on the ground 0 s
Statistics: Alex Hughes
Punches 7/22 (32%)
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! Tonight we had a man in the audience who’s very interested in the outcome of our Co-Main Event as well as the native cuisine, the one and only taco-loving José Meléndez!”
BYRON McCALL: “This guy sits on the outskirts of title contention, and his future fights are wagered on the result. Meléndez has won four of his last five fights, he’s been a fan favorite since he debuted due to his high volume striking and high motor cardio. I hope one day he can leap that hurdle and earn a title fight.”
MIKE DEMPSEY: “Ladies and gentlemen, the following contest is scheduled for three rounds in the Union Grand Prix Bantamweight Division! Introducing first, fighting out of the blue corner, a Karate striker holding a professional mixed martial arts record of eleven wins, two losses. He stands 5’8”, and weighing in at 135 pounds. He is from Guayaquil, Ecuador, fighting out of Kings MMA, presenting the number six ranked Bantamweight Contender in the World, Ignacio “Nacho” Zambrano!”
[Ignacio Zambrano stood tall in his corner, his eyes fixed on his opponent, the only thing standing between him and victory. With his heart beating like a drum, Ignacio took a deep breath, channeling all of his focus and energy into this moment. He stepped forward, his callused feet scuffing against the canvas, and raised his glove in a salute to the thousands of fans who had come to see him fight.]
BODIE SULLIVAN: “We’re staying put in the Bantamweight Division and up first is Ignacio Zambrano. “Nacho” has accumulated a 2-1 record in Union so far that has put him just outside the top five in the rankings, and he’s got a shot at building a streak with a win tonight. It’s going to be really interesting to see how he handles this kind of step up in competition. He’s got a lot of tools in his arsenal, which always gives him ample opportunity to stay on the offensive.”
BYRON McCALL: “Zambrano is a true powerhouse. He’s a great all-around fighter, but what really sets him apart are his nasty elbows and incredible takedown ability. He’s a fighter who never takes his foot off the gas, and he’s always looking to finish his opponents. This is going to be an exciting fight, and I can’t wait to see how it plays out.”
MIKE DEMPSEY: “And his opponent, fighting out of the red corner, a Kickboxer holding a professional mixed martial arts record of thirteen wins, one loss. She stands 5’5”, and weighing in at 135 pounds. She is from Lyon, France, fighting out of Fortunes MMA, presenting the former Everest MMA Strawweight Champion and the number five ranked Bantamweight Contender in the World, “Trois Voeux” Eugenie Bombelles!”
[Eugenie Bombelles’ eyes scan the arena, taking in every detail of her surroundings. The bright lights illuminate the octagon, casting a halo around her as she steps onto the canvas. She takes a deep breath, feeling the cool air filling her lungs, and pounds her chest with a clenched fist, letting out a fierce war cry that echoes through the arena. The sound reverberates off the walls, shaking the ground beneath her feet as the crowd responds in kind.]
BODIE SULLIVAN: “Eugenie Bombelles has built quite the reputation as a very legit contender in the Bantamweight Division. Unfortunately, her last outing didn’t go as planned, as she suffered her first professional loss against Rachel Parsons in the Bantamweight Championship Grand Prix. She gets the chance to rebound tonight and get back in the win column while securing her number next to her name.”
BYRON McCALL: “Bombelles is still a force to be reckoned with. She is a creative striker who doesn’t telegraph her strikes at all, which means her opponents won’t know what hit them until it’s too late. And let’s talk about her resilience, Bodie. Eugenie Bombelles is a fighter who can take a lot of punishment and keep moving forward. That’s something you can’t teach, folks.”
[As the crowd roars with excitement, the fighters step into the center of the cage for the first round of what promises to be a brutal and intense fight. The referee, Lars Levy, stands off on the perimeter, his eyes focused on the two combatants. The fighters touch gloves, a sign of mutual respect. Without wasting any time, Ignacio Zambrano throws an uppercut, but Eugenie Bombelles slips it with ease. Bombelles then fakes a counter punch and shoots for a takedown but Zambrano is quick to sprawl and remain on his feet. Zambrano follows up with a punch that whizzes past Bombelles off the break, and Bombelles responds with a powerful front kick that sends Zambrano stumbling backwards. Bombelles then feints and moves forward to land a devastating hook, causing a small cut to appear on Zambrano’s chin.]
BODIE SULLIVAN: “Wow, what a start to this fight! Zambrano is coming out aggressive, but Bombelles seems to be reading him like a book.”
BYRON McCALL: “That front kick from Bombelles was a thing of beauty, and that hook that followed left a pretty good cut on Zambrano’s chin. He needs to be careful not to get caught again like that.”
[As Zambrano goes with a looping right hand, Bombelles jumps back and jabs, causing Zambrano to stagger. Sensing the opening, Bombelles capitalizes with a flurry of jabs and crosses. Bombelles continues to push forward and launches a high kick that lands viciously on Zambrano’s left cheek, causing it to swell almost instantly. However, Zambrano remains composed and studies his opponent, looking for a hole in Bombelles’ defense. The fighters circle around the center of the cage, each waiting for the other to make a move.]
BODIE SULLIVAN: “Bombelles is really taking control of this fight. That high kick landed perfectly on Zambrano’s cheek. It’s a game of cat and mouse right now. Both fighters seem to be waiting for the other to make a move.”
BYRON McCALL: “Zambrano is still in this. He’s composed and studying his opponent’s movements. He’s waiting for the right opportunity to strike. They’re both trying to outsmart each other. It’s going to be interesting to see who makes the first move.”
[Suddenly, Zambrano shoots for a double leg takedown, successfully taking Bombelles off her feet. However, Bombelles manages to pull Zambrano into her guard, and Zambrano is initially unable to improve his position. As Zambrano fakes a few punches, he slips one leg to get into half mount, but Bombelles manages to switch to full guard. Zambrano attempts to escape from the closed guard and eventually succeeds, jumping to side mount. Zambrano looks to pass to mount, but Bombelles creates space and scrambles back to her feet. The crowd cheers as both fighters continue to exchange blows as they climb back up to their feet.]
BODIE SULLIVAN: “Zambrano with a nice takedown, but doesn’t get much out of it other than slowing the pace down a bit.”
BYRON McCALL: “And Bombelles does a great job of getting back on her feet! This fight is far from over, folks. Both fighters are still exchanging blows and looking for an opportunity to finish this fight.”
[As the fight intensifies, Zambrano nearly tags Bombelles with a nice punch, but Bombelles ducks and counters with an incredible haymaker, snapping Zambrano’s head backwards. Sensing an opportunity, Zambrano fakes a punch and shoots for another takedown, catching Bombelles off guard and putting her back on the ground. Zambrano lands in open guard over Bombelles and begins to launch a couple of elbows against Bombelles’ ribs. Bombelles winces in pain, but manages to block most of the heavy elbows. As Zambrano works to pass to half guard, Bombelles is unable to block her opponent from passing. Zambrano positions himself some ground and pound, launching precise elbows at Bombelles. Bombelles attempts to cover herself, but the pain is evident on her face. As the fighters scramble on the ground, Zambrano attempts to counter Bombelles’ moves, but Bombelles rolls over herself and stands up while Zambrano rolls on his back. The referee halts the fight to stand Zambrano up, and both fighters resume on their feet.]
BODIE SULLIVAN: “Zambrano quickly recovered from that nasty haymaker and went for the takedown. I like where his head is at. He landed some nice elbows that should equalize the playing field.”
BYRON McCALL: “Bombelles is tough though, she’s managed to not take too much damage all the while getting back to her feet.”
[Bombelles surprises Zambrano with a spinning back kick that lands on his chin, leaving him stunned. She follows up with a furious low kick that he barely manages to check, but the damage is already done. A nasty body kick rocks Zambrano, causing him to stumble backwards and leaving him an easy target for Bombelles. She fires off an onslaught of low kicks, relentlessly punishing Zambrano’s legs. He crumbles to the mat under his own weight, his leg chewed up and in obvious pain. The referee has seen enough and stops the fight, giving Bombelles the victory.]
BODIE SULLIVAN: “And there it is! The referee stops the fight. What a dominant performance from Eugenie Bombelles!”
BYRON McCALL: “It was just a matter of time. Bombelles was just picking her shots and wearing him down. She chopped away at that leg up and once you see a fighter drop like that, that’s a bad visual and it’s an easy call to stop it.”
[As Bombelles triumphantly embraces her cornermen, the audience erupts into deafening applause. The medical team quickly enters the octagon to attend to Zambrano. After a brief examination, Zambrano 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 Lars Levy has called for a stop in this fight at four minutes thirty-six seconds in the very first round, declaring your winner by technical knockout, “Trois Voeux” Eugenie Bombelles!”
[The audience erupts in applause as Bombelles is declared the winner. The two fighters exchange a respectful handshake before going their separate ways. The screen displays a graphic with the fight’s statistics and the commentators give a summary of the match.]
Winner: Eugenie Bombelles by TKO (Low Kicks) at 4:36 Round 1
Statistics: Eugenie Bombelles
Punches 7/10 (70%)
Kicks 7/8 (88%)
Clinch strikes 0/1 (0%)
Takedowns 0/1 (0%)
GnP strikes 0/0 (0%)
Submissions 0/0 (0%)
Clinch Attempts 0/0 (0%)
Time on the ground 87 s
Statistics: Ignacio Zambrano
Punches 0/4 (0%)
Kicks 0/0 (0%)
Clinch strikes 0/1 (0%)
Takedowns 2/2 (100%)
GnP strikes 2/5 (40%)
Submissions 0/0 (0%)
Clinch Attempts 0/0 (0%)
Time on the ground 87 s
BODIE SULLIVAN: “Welcome back to the broadcast, ladies and gentlemen. Everest SZN 4 is coming to the Battleground Network next month, where we essentially have an entirely new field of competitors looking to venture their way to a season title, a guaranteed contract, and that million dollar prize.”
BYRON McCALL: “There’s a lot of promising prospects looking to make that next step and also a handful who are making their professional debuts. I’m excited to see what this new season has in store for us. Perhaps we may witness the next Gianna Howard or the next Lovelie Saint-Cyr who can reach the levels of one day becoming a Union GP Champion.”
BODIE SULLIVAN: “No doubt there’s a lot of excitement built up to this season and it’s all thanks to that woman right there, the Executive Vice President of Talent Relations and Hall of Famer, Cass Madrigal! It’s great to see her in the house tonight catching the action live! She has been the driving force behind the success of Everest MMA. We can credit her eye for talent that has brought us this wave of next gen fighters that have taken over the big leagues.”
MIKE DEMPSEY: “Ladies and gentlemen, the following contest is scheduled for three rounds in the Union Grand Prix Heavyweight Division! Introducing first, fighting out of the blue corner, a Boxer holding a professional mixed martial arts record of twelve wins, three losses. He stands 6’3”, and weighing in at 265 pounds. He is from Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada, fighting out of RAW Graps, presenting the former Everest MMA Heavyweight Champion and the number four ranked Heavyweight Contender in the World, “The Death Dealer” Dax Levandrier!”
[Dax Levandrier stands tall in his corner, his muscles rippling beneath the spotlight. He nods his head, his eyes locked onto his opponent in the opposite corner. Dax takes a deep breath, feeling his heart pounding in his chest. He knows he has to stay focused, keep his wits about him, and stay one step ahead of his opponent at all times.]
BODIE SULLIVAN: “It’s time for our second and final heavyweight tilt of the evening, featuring the decorated Everest alum, the one and only Dax Levandrier. After a tough loss to former Union GP Heavyweight Champion Owen Barnes, Dax is back in the octagon, and he’s hungry for redemption. He’s up against a fierce competitor, a former title challenger in two divisions.”
BYRON McCALL: “At this point, we know what Dax is about, vaporizing his opponents into dust with his lethal hands. He’s big, he’s strong, and he’s violent. It’s not complex. The guy goes out there and headhunts as soon as the bell tolls, and he’s looking to collect another one tonight.”
MIKE DEMPSEY: “And his opponent, fighting out of the red corner, a Boxer holding a professional mixed martial arts record of eleven wins, six losses. He stands 6’5”, and weighing in at 250 pounds. He is from Saint Petersburg, Russia, fighting out of Volkov Fighting Institute, presenting the former Union Grand Prix Cruiserweight Title Challenger and the former Union Grand Prix Heavyweight Title Challenger and the number three ranked Heavyweight Contender in the World, “Big Vik” Viktor Volkov!”
[Viktor Volkov stands in his corner, his eyes fixed on his opponent who stands on the other side of the octagon. The crowd roars with anticipation, their cheers echoing off the walls and adding to the electric atmosphere. He takes a deep breath and steadies himself. He can feel the sweat beading on his forehead and the adrenaline coursing through his veins. He knows that this is the moment he has been training for, the moment that could alter his career, for better or for worse.]
BODIE SULLIVAN: “And now, Big Vik Volkov is back in action, looking to win back-to-back fights. Volkov was on a roll during the Interim Heavyweight Championship Grand Prix last year, making it all the way to the finals before being bested by Gauge Lattimore. Tonight he faces a rising contender with a lot of hype behind his name. It’s the perfect matchup for him to re-insert himself into that shortlist of title contenders.”
BYRON McCALL: “Volkov has always been ‘rightthere’ as far as becoming a champion in Union GP. If it wasn’t for fighters named Roscoe Robinson, Kennard Rozier, or Gauge Lattimore, Big Vik may very well have numerous title reigns spanning several divisions. But let’s not talk in hypotheticals here, what is factual is Volkov’s vicious Olympic-level boxing is well known to put the biggest and baddest to sleep in a blink of an eye. Can he manage to do it again against the monster of a man, Dax Levandrier? We’re about to find out, right now!”
[You could cut the tension with a knife as referee Dusty Whittaker takes his position in the center of the cage. All eyes are on Viktor Volkov and Dax Levandrier as they touch gloves, signaling the start of the bout. Dax decides to take the initiative and launch some tentative punches, but Viktor Volkov quickly responds with a couple of jabs. In a split second, Dax answers back with a stiff cross, resulting in a solid exchange that sets the tone for the fight.]
BODIE SULLIVAN: “Wow, what an explosive start to this fight! Both fighters are showing off their striking early on.”
BYRON McCALL: “Dax Levandrier is looking to take the lead, but Viktor Volkov is countering with precision.”
BODIE SULLIVAN: “It’s still too early to tell who’s going to take control of this bout, but the intensity is definitely there.”
BYRON McCALL: “Absolutely, both of these fighters are not backing down or holding anything back.”
[Both fighters take a moment to size each other up in the center of the cage, their sharp stares locked in a fierce battle of wills. But before anyone can catch their breath, Viktor Volkov delivers a pulverizing punch to Dax’s head. The force of the blow is evident as Dax’s left eye begins to bruise and quickly swell up while he fumbles a bit on his feet. But Viktor Volkov isn’t done yet. In a move that leaves the crowd breathless, he unleashes an incredible haymaker that sends Dax’s head snapping backwards. Dax stumbles backwards, looking dazed and vulnerable, and Viktor Volkov sees his chance to strike.]
BODIE SULLIVAN: “Viktor Volkov is going in for the kill. He’s throwing everything he’s got behind those punches!”
BYRON McCALL: “Dax is struggling to stay upright, he’s not able to defend himself properly. This could be over soon if Big Vik can keep this up.”
[The two fighters engage in a wild exchange of punches, both connecting with ferocious intensity. The crowd roars as they watch the brutal spectacle unfold. It’s anyone’s guess who will come out on top, but one thing is clear: someone is about to land a knockout blow. Suddenly, Viktor Volkov’s punishing blows leave Dax staggered and vulnerable. He runs towards Dax, launching a barrage of punches that rain down on the hapless fighter.]
[Dax tries to fight back, but he’s too dazed and beaten to mount any kind of defense. One punch after another lands with sickening force, and the referee, Dusty Whittaker, looks like he might intervene at any moment. But it’s too late. The frightening power of Viktor Volkov has left Dax Levandrier sleeping on the canvas, his dreams of victory shattered by the unstoppable force of his opponent. The crowd erupts in a frenzy of cheers and applause as Viktor Volkov raises his arms in triumph, the victor of this epic battle.]
BODIE SULLIVAN: “And there it is, Volkov lands the knockout blow! Volkov just unleashed a fury of punches on Dax!”
BYRON McCALL: “Volkov’s power proved to be too much for Dax Levandrier. Once Volkov sensed Dax was in danger, he never let his foot off the pedal and secured a big knockout finish here in Mexico! This crowd is going wild!”
[As Volkov triumphantly embraces his cornermen, the audience erupts into deafening applause. The Ringside Physicians quickly enter the octagon to attend to Dax Levandrier. After a brief examination, Dax 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 Dusty Whittaker has called for a stop in this fight at one minute eight seconds in the very first round, declaring your winner by knockout, “Big Vik” Viktor Volkov!”
[The audience erupts in applause as Volkov is declared the winner. The two fighters exchange a respectful handshake before going their separate ways. The screen displays a graphic with the fight’s statistics and the commentators give a summary of the match.]
Winner: Viktor Volkov by KO (Punches) at 1:08 Round 1
Statistics: Viktor Volkov
Punches 10/12 (83%)
Kicks 0/0 (0%)
Clinch strikes 0/0 (0%)
Takedowns 0/0 (0%)
GnP strikes 0/0 (0%)
Submissions 0/0 (0%)
Clinch Attempts 0/0 (0%)
Time on the ground 0 s
Statistics: Dax Levandrier
Punches 5/5 (100%)
Kicks 0/0 (0%)
Clinch strikes 0/0 (0%)
Takedowns 0/0 (0%)
GnP strikes 0/0 (0%)
Submissions 0/0 (0%)
Clinch Attempts 0/0 (0%)
Time on the ground 0 s
BODIE SULLIVAN: “Welcome back fight fans! It’s been an incredible night of fights here at the Arena México so far but we’ve got plenty more to come. When we get back to the States, we will be landing in Houston for Boss Fight Forty-Three where that man right there, Deebo Briggs, will main event the card against another rising contender, Eagle Mondalvi.”
BYRON McCALL: “I’m glad to see these guys finally get a chance to shine on the big stage. Briggs and Mondalvi combined together have over forty pro fights. They’re bringing a ton of experience and knowledge that will span over five rounds. I love this matchup and can’t wait to see it unfold.”
♫
DRANKIN’ DOPE TURNED ME TO A SUPERHERO, YEAH, YEAH
HIT THAT PILL, TURNED ME TO A SUPERHERO, YEAH, YEAH
BOOMINATI TURNED ME TO A SUPERHERO, YEAH, YEAH (METRO)
(IF YOUNG METRO DON’T TRUST YOU, I’M GON’ SHOOT YOU)
♫
[The arena was fired up as the opening sounds of “Superhero (Heroes and Villains)” by Metro Boomin, Future and Chris Brown began to fill the air. The crowd was on their feet, eagerly anticipating what was to come next. Suddenly, the screens throughout the building lit up with an old clip by Medal of Honor recipient, Army Staff Sgt. David Bellavia. As the music continued to play, his words resonated through the arena.]
“OUR MILITARY SHOULD NOT BE MISTAKEN FOR A CABLE NEWS GABFEST SHOW. WE DON’T CARE WHAT YOU LOOK LIKE. WE DON’T CARE WHO YOU VOTED FOR, WHO YOU WORSHIP, WHAT YOU WORSHIP, WHO YOU LOVE. IT DOESN’T MATTER IF YOUR DAD LEFT YOU MILLIONS WHEN HE DIED, OR IF YOU KNEW WHO YOUR FATHER WAS. WE HAVE BEEN HONED INTO A MACHINE OF LETHAL MOVING PARTS THAT YOU WOULD BE WISE TO AVOID IF YOU KNOW WHAT’S GOOD FOR YOU.
WE WILL NOT BE INTIMIDATED.
WE WILL NOT BACK DOWN.
WE’VE SEEN WAR. WE DON’T WANT WAR. BUT IF YOU WANT WAR WITH THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, THERE’S ONE THING I CAN PROMISE YOU, SO HELP ME GOD: SOMEONE ELSE WILL RAISE YOUR SONS AND DAUGHTERS.”
[The atmosphere was charged with emotion as the audience listened to the inspiring words of Staff Sgt. Bellavia. The sound of the music blended perfectly with his message, creating a sense of unity and pride among those in attendance. As the clip came to a close, the lights in the arena dimmed, and the crowd grew quiet in anticipation of what was to come. It was clear that something incredible was about to happen, and the audience was ready to witness it. As those final words were spoken over the speakers, like a bolt of lightning, Derrius Webb emerged from the darkness, striding confidently towards the cage at the center of the arena. His eyes blazed with a fierce determination, as he fixed his gaze upon the structure before him. The crowd erupted in cheers, their excitement building to a fever pitch. With his entourage of trainers, most notably Roscoe Robinson, close behind, Derrius moved with purpose, each step bringing him closer to the moment that he had been preparing for. His muscles were coiled tight, his body a finely tuned machine, ready to unleash its power and skill upon his opposition. With the perfect blend of entertainment and professionalism, the opening of the event had captivated the audience and set the tone for the rest of the night.]
BODIE SULLIVAN: “And here he is, ladies and gentlemen, the three-time, three-time, three-time Everest MMA Welterweight Champion and 2022 Everest MMA Fighter of the Year, Derrius “Spyda” Webb! Ever since Webb made the move up to Union, he’s been waiting for a fight like this. He’s currently riding a seven fight win streak dating back to his time in Everest. The stakes have never been higher for this young blood, and he looks as ready as ever to put on a show.”
BYRON McCALL: “When you see the guys he has around him in that training facility, you know he’s come prepared. The Hit Squad is filled with champions from top to bottom, and Webb is on the hunt to be the next big thing coming out of Palmdale, California. We talk about his skill set like he’s a twenty year veteran of the sport, but he’s just a fresh twenty-two years of age! The guy possesses such a high level striking skill set, and yet he’s got so much time to improve on it. That’s a scary thought. However, he’s going to HAVE to be on his A-game tonight as he faced off against one of the all-time greats at 185 pounds.”
[The moment of truth had finally arrived. Roscoe and Derrius stood side-by-side at the edge of the cage, their eyes locked in a fierce, determined gaze. With a solemn nod, they exchanged final words of encouragement and solidarity, steeling themselves for the battle ahead. Derrius stepped forward to meet the official for inspection, his muscles taut with anticipation. Every fiber of his being was focused on the task at hand, every ounce of his strength honed for this moment. As the examination came to a close and Webb was given the green light to enter the cage, he turned to his coaches one last time, nodding with quiet resolve. Taking his place in the corner of the cage, Derrius began to loosen up, throwing sharp punches and kicks in the air with lightning-fast precision. His movements were fluid and graceful, a testament to his training and dedication. As the final seconds ticked down, he closed his eyes and focused his mind, channeling all his energy and concentration into the fight to come.]
♫
I CAN FEEL IT COMING IN THE AIR TONIGHT, (OH LORD)
AND I’VE BEEN WAITING FOR THIS MOMENT, FOR ALL MY LIFE, (OH LORD)
CAN YOU FEEL IT COMING IN THE AIR TONIGHT, OH LORD, (OH LORD)
♫
[The atmosphere in the arena was electric, with the anticipation of the Co-Main Event fight hanging heavy in the air. The chatter of the crowd had reached a fever pitch as the music began to blare through the speakers, and they erupted into cheers and applause. It was the unmistakable sound of Phil Collins’ “In the Air Tonight,” and it could only mean one thing: Travis Decker was about to make his entrance.]
[Travis emerged from the tunnel, looking like a man possessed. His eyes were fixed firmly on the cage ahead of him, and he marched towards it with a sense of purpose that was particularly noticeable. His team of coaches followed closely behind him, but he paid them no attention. All his focus was on the octagon. The air crackled with energy, and you could feel the tension building with each step Travis took. It was clear that he was ready for war, and he was prepared to do whatever it took to come out on top.]
[Despite the raucous cheers of the crowd, Travis remained stoic, his eyes never leaving the cage. He was completely in the zone, lost in his own thoughts and strategies for the upcoming fight. It was as though he had blocked out the entire world around him, and all that mattered was the battle that lay ahead.]
BODIE SULLIVAN: “Making the walk to the octagon now is the former Middleweight Champion, Travis Decker! The story of this man’s career has been told many times over, and it’s always worth noting. He really has had two different careers since his professional debut. Things started off rocky for the Chicago native, as he went 4-5 with one no contest. He took some time off from active competition to rework his overall style. Since his return to action, he has gone 8-2, which includes a championship win and four successful title defenses. It’s one of those Hollywood scripts you only see on the silver screen. He’s the 2020 Comeback Fighter of the Year and won the 2021 Fight of the Year Honors in his epic five round war against Delaney Donovan to win that 185-pound strap.”
BYRON McCALL: “And it doesn’t look like he’s done either. Yes, he lost the title to Byron McCall, and yes, he lost a bid to reclaim the strap in a razor thin split decision loss to Lovelie Saint-Cyr, but Decker hasn’t shown any signs of slowing down, despite being 34 years old. Tonight he gets a shot at another rising star to prove to the world that he is still in the thick of title contention. With his vicious head kicks, he’s always in play to push anybody to their limit and make them decide who they really are deep down. That’s the type of fighter we all love to watch, and it’s one that Decker has evolved in over the last few years.”
[Decker makes it to cageside where he strips down to his trunks and gives each of his cornermen one last hug before turning to the official. Once he gets inspected and cleared, Decker looks up and points to the heavens before racing up the steps. As he climbed into the cage, the crowd’s roar reached a crescendo, but Travis was unfazed. He was a man on a mission, and he was ready to take on anyone who stood in his way. One of his coaches pours some water on the mat as he settles in his corner to wipe his feet and gain a little added grip. Decker remains dialed in as he awaits his opponent.]
MIKE DEMPSEY: “Ladies and gentlemen, it’s time for the Co-Main Event of the evening! Sanctioned by the Federacion de Artes Marciales Mixtas Equidad y Juego Limpio, our three judges scoring this contest at cageside are Héctor Romero, Armando González, and María Rubio, 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 Arena México in Mexico City, streaming exclusively on the Battleground Network…”
IT’S TIME!
MIKE DEMPSEY: “The following contest is scheduled for three rounds in the Union Grand Prix Middleweight Division! Introducing first, fighting out of the blue corner, a Kickboxer holding a professional mixed martial arts record of fourteen wins, four losses. He stands 6’4”, and weighing in at 185 pounds. He is from Brooklyn, New York, fighting out of the Hit Squad — presenting the former three-time Everest MMA Welterweight Champion and the number four ranked Middleweight Contender in the World, Derrius “Spyda” Webb!”
[Amidst this unruly atmosphere, Derrius Webb emerged from his corner, nodding his head with a sly smirk that hinted at his confidence and skill. As he approached the cameraman stationed inside the octagon, Webb’s eyes glinted with a fierce intensity. Without breaking his stride, he mimicked the action of squeezing the trigger of a gun, his hand hovering just inches from the lens of the camera. It was a bold and brazen move, a signal to his opponent that he was not to be underestimated. Stepping back into his corner, Webb’s gaze flickered over to Decker, his rival in this battle. With a quick flick of his wrist, he sliced his hand across his throat in a taunting gesture that left no room for interpretation. It was a clear warning, a message that he was ready to take on anyone who dared to stand in his way.]
MIKE DEMPSEY: “And his opponent, fighting out of the red corner, a Kickboxer holding a professional mixed martial arts record of twelve wins, seven losses, one no contest. He stands 6’2”, and weighing in at 185 pounds. He is from Chicago, Illinois, fighting out of Real Killas MMA — presenting the former Union Grand Prix Middleweight Champion and the number two ranked Middleweight Contender in the World, “Ripcord” Travis Decker!”
[Travis Decker stands silently in his corner, sweat trickling down his face. His heart races with adrenaline, his breaths coming in quick, shallow gasps as he tries to calm his nerves. Despite his best efforts to maintain his composure, the look on Decker’s face reveals the mounting pressure he feels. As he stares across the octagon at his opponent, a formidable foe with a fierce reputation, his eyes betray a hint of fear. The nerves are starting to peek out. But despite the fear and uncertainty that threatens to engulf him, Decker remains steadfast, his eyes fixed firmly on his opponent. He is determined to face this challenge head-on, to push through the nerves and emerge victorious. For him, there is no other option.]
[The referee steps to the center of the cage and motions for both fighters to meet. With Mike Dempsey standing behind holding the microphone, referee Colin Davenport gives one final pep talk.]
COLIN DAVENPORT: “Alright fighters, we’ve gone through the rules in the back. Protect yourself at all times, follow my instructions, touch gloves and let’s do it.”
[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 pressure was at an all-time high for both fighters as referee Colin Davenport stepped off to the side, ready to oversee the much-anticipated bout between Travis Decker and Derrius Webb. The two fighters met in the center of the ring, their gloves touching in a show of sportsmanship before the fight began. Suddenly, Derrius Webb spun around with lightning speed and delivered a spinning back fist that connected with a resounding thud on Decker’s chin. The impact was so powerful that Decker stumbled backwards, his head spinning as he tried to regain his bearings. He could feel his chin swelling up already, and knew that this was going to be a tough fight. The two fighters exchanged blows in a wild frenzy, with Decker managing to land a few punches of his own. But Webb was relentless, raining down punches with a fury that left Decker reeling. He could feel a small cut on his right cheek, and knew that he was in a predicament.]
BODIE SULLIVAN: “Decker is in trouble here, that spinning back fist from Webb caught him off guard and it looks like it’s done some real damage. Webb is still coming forward with that relentless style of his.”
BYRON McCALL: “Decker is tough, he’s not going to give up that easily. He’s managed to land a few punches of his own, and you can see Webb is starting to slow down a bit. It’s still early in the fight, though. Decker has plenty of time to turn things around.”
[Despite the ferocity of the exchange, neither fighter seemed to have much steam behind their shots. There was a small cut on Webb’s right cheek, but he seemed unfazed as he continued to press on. Suddenly, Webb stepped forward and Decker saw his chance. He caught his opponent with a counter uppercut to the face, and Webb stumbled backwards, momentarily stunned. Decker seized the opportunity and delivered a brutal-looking high kick that echoed through the arena, making even those in the back seats flinch.]
BODIE SULLIVAN: “Wooooah, did you see that kick? Decker is really bringing the heat now!”
BYRON McCALL: “It looks like Webb is starting to feel the effects of those earlier shots, but he’s still on his feet and fighting back. You’ve got to admire his resilience.”
[But Webb wasn’t done yet. He unleashed a one-two combination that Decker managed to block, and then launched a kick that Decker dodged. The two fighters circled each other warily, each looking for an opening in the other’s defense. Decker went for a looping right hand while Webb jumped back and jabbed, but Webb countered with a few punches of his own. The exchange was so fast and furious that it was hard to keep track of who was landing what blows. And then, suddenly, Webb found an opening in Decker’s defense and delivered a big uppercut that sent Decker reeling. He was wobbling on his feet, his head spinning as Webb poured on the offense with a series of furious combinations. Colin Davenport, the referee, stepped in and asked Decker to defend himself, but it was too late. Webb pushed Decker up against the fence and landed another devastating uppercut, and Davenport had no choice but to stop the fight to prevent any further punishment for Decker.]
BODIE SULLIVAN: “And there it is! Webb just landed a huge uppercut that sent Decker staggering back. Webb was firing on all cylinders, throwing some heavy shots and Decker could not recover.”
BYRON McCALL: “Derrius Webb could sense the momentum flooding in his favor, he could feel Decker crumbling with every shot landing. He never led off and got the win! What an incredible finish, take a bow!”
[As the anticipation in the air reached a fever pitch, Webb approached the fence with a look of steely determination on his face. He gripped the chain link with his calloused hands and began to scale it with lightning-fast agility, his muscles rippling under his sweat-drenched skin. With a final leap, he cleared the top of the fence and landed on the other side, where his cornermen were waiting with outstretched arms. As he embraced them in a triumphant hug, the crowd exploded into a deafening roar of applause and cheers. The energy in the arena was electric, charged with excitement and raw emotion.]
[Meanwhile, the medical team rushed into the octagon to attend to Decker, who lay crumpled on the mat like a discarded rag doll. The hush that had fallen over the audience was dreadful, as they watched with bated breath to see if the fallen fighter would rise again.]
[From his perch atop the fence, Webb looked down at his vanquished opponent with a mixture of satisfaction and disdain. He pointed at Decker and put his hands together next to his cheek, gesturing a sleeping taunt that sent a ripple of indignation through the opposing team. Despite the jawing back and forth between both teams, Webb remained undaunted. He knew that he had fought with all his heart and soul, and he was proud of what he had accomplished. As Decker was examined by the physicians and slowly regained his footing, the physicians exited the cage, and both fighters gathered in the center of the octagon for the momentous announcement.]
MIKE DEMPSEY: “Ladies and gentlemen, referee Colin Davenport has called for a stop in this fight at two minutes twenty-six seconds in the very first round, declaring your winner by technical knockout, Derrius “Spyda” Webb!”
[The crowd erupts in applause and cheers, their excitement spilling over into the octagon as Webb is declared the winner. Amidst the frenzy, the two fighters hesitantly approached each other, their faces displaying a mix of emotions. They exchanged a brief and halfhearted handshake, their mutual respect overshadowed by the intensity of the competition. The screen flickered to life, displaying a graphic with the fight’s statistics. The commentators, their voices hoarse from the intensity of the fight, gave a summary of the match. Every punch, every jab, every move was dissected and analyzed, as the audience listened with rapt attention.]
Winner: Derrius Webb by TKO (Uppercut) at 2:26 Round 1
Statistics: Travis Decker
Punches 12/15 (80%)
Kicks 1/4 (25%)
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: Derrius Webb
Punches 10/26 (38%)
Kicks 0/1 (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
[The roar of the crowd slowly died down, and a hush fell over the arena as the chaos of the last few moments finally settled. As Bodie Sullivan made his way into the cage, the audience held its breath, eager to hear what the seasoned commentator had to say with the winner. He moved with purpose, his sharp suit and polished shoes a stark contrast to the raw energy that had just been unleashed in the ring.]
BODIE SULLIVAN: “Ladies and gentlemen, I am here with the winner, Derrius Webb! Derrius, what a finish for you. This has to be one of the biggest wins in your career. Can you put into words how you are feeling right now in this moment?”
DERRIUS WEBB: “I’ve been doubted since day one when I stepped into the cage. From the first moment I fought in Everest. From the first moment I moved up to UGP to tonight. Doubt… doubt… and more doubt.”
[Derrius pauses for a moment.]
DERRIUS WEBB: ”Doubt me? Against him?”
[Derrius looks over to Travis Decker with a smirk stretched across his face.]
DERRIUS WEBB: “That’s where y’all fucked up. To everyone who doubted me? Look at me now! I’ve been unstoppable since coming to UGP and I’m not done yet. I’m coming for the gold. I’m coming for the strap. I’m coming to prove that I’m that dude. I’m that motherfuckin’ dude! Not him…”
[He briefly turns to Decker once more.]
DERRIUS WEBB: “Not his team. Not any of the others I’ve beaten to get here. Not any of the others I’ll put down in my path to becoming Middleweight champion. I have my sights set on the strap. It’s my time now. Whether it’s the next fight or five fights down the road, if not longer, I’m not stopping until that championship is around my waist. And when it is? That’s when the main story begins, this is all just the intro.”
[Webb pauses once more as the crowd cheers him on.]
DERRIUS WEBB: “It’s my time and y’all gon’ have to put my body six feet under to stop me from achieving my goals. If you’re watching, take notes. I’ve already taken note of each and every single one of you in the division and one by one, y’all will know and remember who the fuck Derrius Webb is.
[For the last time, Webb pauses for dramatic effect before moving back into the mic.]
DERRIUS WEBB: “On god…”
[Derrius firmly pushes the microphone back to Bodie Sullivan and then walks away, heading back to his teammates as they each dab him up.]
BODIE SULLIVAN: “Well there you have it, folks! Give it up one more time for your winner, Derrius Webb!”
[As the conversation comes to a close, Bodie can’t help but feel a sense of awe and inspiration at what he’s just witnessed. This is the heart and soul of MMA, the raw passion and skill that drives these fighters to push themselves beyond their limits. And it’s moments like these that make it all worthwhile. Bodie takes one last look around the octagon, taking in the energy and excitement of the crowd, the sweat and blood of the fighters, and the incredible spirit of competition that defines MMA before the streaming feed fades out for their final commercial break.]
BODIE SULLIVAN: “Welcome back, fight fans! We’re coming to you live from Mexico City, and what an amazing night it has been so far! We are now moments away from the Main Event of the evening. Before we do, we want to remind you all to mark your calendars for RFC 3: Duality coming later this month! It’s the biggest card the infant company has put on to date, and it’s filled with banger after banger.”
BYRON McCALL: “We have the highly anticipated Championship fight between that woman right there in attendance, CC Flynn, taking on Zion Momo’a in her first title defense, the long awaited rematch between Roscoe Robinson and Kennard Rozier, as well as the debut of Taylor Webb and Xabier Belazco, Cal McCluskey, and Elliot McMillan in action. This card will definitely change the trajectory of the company.”
♫
WITH EVERY OUNCE OF MY BLOOD
WITH EVERY BREATH IN MY LUNGS
WON’T STOP UNTIL I’M PHENOMENAL
♫
[The lights cut out in the arena, replaced by swirling greens and yellows, with a single spotlight shining straight on the entrance curtain. One by one, the cornermen for the challenger for the Bantamweight Championship emerge first, then it’s Isabel herself who pushes past the curtain–to no small pocket of cheers from the Mexican fans. Normally stone-faced on fight night, Izzi takes a second just on the other side of the curtain, cracking a smile and spreading her arms out wide, almost basking in the moment before beginning her march down to the cage.]
BODIE SULLIVAN: “We here, folks! This is it! After a several months long journey, we have reached the finals of the Bantamweight Championship Grand Prix. Up first, the former title challenger Isabel Azevedo. Izzy is riding a three-fight win streak since her loss to Gianna Howard. Of her eight wins, six of them have come by submission. Some of those wins include former Bantamweight Champion Lauren Moore, former Everest MMA Strawweight Champion Rachel Parsons, and former title challengers Lena Lyons and Lilly Dunne.”
BYRON McCALL: “It’s no secret what her specialty is. She has god-tier Jiu-Jitsu as well as sneaky good hands when needed. Azevedo has no issues of working from the bottom when the fight goes to the ground, so I think that could be the key in this fight. If she gets caught in the clinch, look for her to pull guard and do what she does best. Otherwise, she needs to set up her takedowns with jabs, feints, and good footwork. She has the arsenal to pull the upset tonight as long as she implements a perfect gameplan.”
[Izzi wastes no time making her way to cageside, peeling off her warm up gear and passing it off to her teammates before embracing each one. The last of her cornermen keeps a hold of Izzi for a little longer than the rest, giving her a last second pep talk before she’s released to get inspected. Once cleared, Izzi shuffles up the steps to the cage, stopping at the door for just a moment. Her eyes close as she takes a couple deep breaths, then they snap open and she all but sprints across the length of the cage, shuffling her way to her corner.]
[The Arena goes dark, before one light flashes over the center of the cage momentarily. “Around The World” by Daft Punk begins to play as a spectrum of red, pink, and white lights begin to take over the arena.]
♫
AROUND THE WORLD, AROUND THE WORLD
AROUND THE WORLD, AROUND THE WORLD
♫
[The crowd begins cheering as Redd Lennox can be seen making her way down the tunnel to the cage. She looks focused as she bounces up and down with every step. Her coaches pat her on the back and keep giving her those words of encouragement. She says something to herself before stopping in her tracks, crossing her heart and holding her fist up listening to the crowd go crazy. Redd continues her slow walk to the cage taking in all the cheers from this sold out crowd. Holding her arms out while she makes her way to the cage she makes sure to show all the love back. She gets close to the cage steps and looks out at the crowd before yelling out “Let’s Go Mexico. Let’s fucking go!!” The crowd pops as she begins taking off her BST Fightwear track suit and talking to her coaches.]
BODIE SULLIVAN: “And now with the final walkout of the night, the newly crowned Bantamweight Champion Redd Lennox looks to finish the story and make her first successful title defense as well as winning the Grand Prix. We’ve talked about her unique opportunity that started on DRIP and led her to this point in time. Three fights in Union, three wins and three performance bonuses. We haven’t seen a meteoric rise like this in a very, very long time!”
BYRON McCALL: “She has beaten two of the best Bantamweights we’ve ever seen in the Grand Prix. A knockout win over Dallas Meechan and a one-sided five round unanimous decision win over Gianna Howard. The accomplishments have been monumental, but it’s time to start a new chapter as champion. She will need to lean on her lethal boxing to dictate the distance and use her surprisingly good clinch game to control the tempo. Her cage awareness has been phenomenal so look for her to focus on her takedown defense to ensure the fight stays standing.”
[As the champion hugs each and everyone of her coaches, there’s some inaudible shouting along with some commotion going on in the front row. It’s the Ryūjin Champion CC Flynn and several of her PRODIGY 206 teammates throwing shade at the Bantamweight Champion. Both women get into a brief shouting match before one of Reed’s coaches pulls her back in.]
BODIE SULLIVAN: “Oooh, looks like we’ve got some pre-fight action going on outside of the cage!”
BYRON McCALL: “That’s CC Flynn trying to get inside Lennox’s head and play some mind games! We may have to boost the security measures up.”
[Redd turns to the official for her inspection, but you can still clearly hear Flynn heckling. Lennox proceeds through the inspection without paying Flynn any attention. When the examination is complete, Redd climbs the steps but before she enters the cage, she turns back toward Flynn and flips her off. This gets a big reaction from the crowd, but Redd is back in her zone. She looks out at the crowd. Holding up her first she takes a bow and steps inside the cage. She immediately goes to her corner where she ducks and just looks across the cage at Isabel.]
MIKE DEMPSEY: “Ladies and gentlemen, it’s time for the Main Event of the evening! Sanctioned by the Federacion de Artes Marciales Mixtas Equidad y Juego Limpio, our three judges scoring this contest at cageside are Héctor Romero, Armando González, and María Rubio, 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 Arena México in Mexico City, streaming exclusively on the Battleground Network…”
IT’S TIME!
MIKE DEMPSEY: “The following contest is scheduled for five rounds! It is the final of the 2023 Bantamweight Grand Prix, and it is for the Union Grand Prix Bantamweight Championship! Introducing first, fighting out of the blue corner, a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu fighter holding a professional mixed martial arts record of eight wins, with two losses. She stands 5’7”, weighing in at 134.75 pounds. She is from Campinas, São Paulo, Brazil, fighting out of Nova Uniao in Rio de Janeiro, presenting the former Union Grand Prix Bantamweight Title Challenger and the number two ranked Bantamweight Contender in the World, “Maravilha” Isabel Azevedo!”
[All eyes were fixed on the arena floor where Isabel Azevedo, a true warrior in every sense of the word, stood tall with her arm raised high above her head. The energy in the arena was electric, pulsating with a fierce intensity that threatened to ignite at any moment. As Isabel scanned the sea of faces before her, a calm and focused look on her features, she couldn’t help but feel the adrenaline pumping through her veins. The fight ahead of her was no small feat, but she was determined.]
MIKE DEMPSEY: “And her opponent, fighting out of the red corner, a Boxer holding a professional mixed martial arts record of thirteen wins, one loss. She stands 5’4”, and weighing in at 135 pounds. She is from Dade County, Florida, fighting out of 9th World Miami — presenting THE REIGNING, DEFENDING, UNDISPUTED Union Grand Prix Bantamweight Champion of the World, “Thee Feisty Cheetoh” Redd Lennox!”
[With a deep breath, Redd begins to shadowbox, her movements fluid and powerful. She ducks and weaves, throwing jabs and hooks, her muscles flexing with every punch. Then, with a sudden burst of energy, Redd raises both hands in the air, a fierce battle cry escaping her lips. It’s a show of strength and determination, a statement that she’s ready to take on anyone who dares to stand in her way. But despite her ferocity, Redd shows respect to her opponent, bowing deeply in a show of sportsmanship. It’s a reminder that, for all the intensity and passion of the sport, there’s still room for honor and respect in the octagon.]
BODIE SULLIVAN: “Here we go folks! History is up for grabs! We’ve got a possible twenty-five minutes to decide who will walk out of Arena México as the Bantamweight Champion and Grand Prix Winner!”
[The referee steps to the center of the cage and motions for both fighters to meet. With Mike Dempsey standing behind holding the microphone, referee Bruno Alves gives one final pep talk.]
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.”
[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, Bruno Alves checks off with each fighter one last time, ensuring they are both ready for the challenge that lies ahead.]
[The moment was finally here, Redd Lennox and Isabel Azevedo were about to face off in the Grand Prix finale, with referee Bruno Alves presiding over the fight. Both fighters touched gloves in the center to make it official. Isabel Azevedo came out strong, determined to bring the fight to the ground with a takedown, but Lennox was steadfast, refusing to budge, and forcing Azevedo to pull guard. Lennox found herself in closed guard as Azevedo tried to roll on the ground, but she wasn’t going to let go of her position, using her leg to keep her stable on the ground. Breaking free of the closed guard, Lennox moved to half guard, and then swiftly slid her knee across to get into full mount. Azevedo attempted to roll to her side and trap Lennox in her guard, but Lennox’s control was too strong, allowing her to maintain her full mount position.]
BODIE SULLIVAN: “Surprise! Lennox really turned the tables on Azevedo there, didn’t she?”
BYRON McCALL: “For most fighters, this is a dangerous position, but Azevedo looks calm and shows no signs of panic.”
[Lennox then threw her leg over and rolled Azevedo into an armbar, but Azevedo managed to break the lock and both fighters climbed to their feet. Azevedo attempted a sweep single, catching Lennox’s far ankle and tripping her to the mat, placing Azevedo in closed guard on the ground. Lennox continued to roll on the ground, and with a nice reversal, she took control and was now in full mount over Azevedo once again. Isabel Azevedo tried to roll to her side to trap Lennox in her guard, but Lennox rolled her over and took her back, now in rear mount over Azevedo.]
BODIE SULLIVAN: “Lennox is definitely looking to finish this fight, and she’s in a great position to do so. But Azevedo is not giving up yet, she’s trying to escape from that rear mount.”
BYRON McCALL: “Azevedo needs to be careful here. Lennox could be hunting for that rear naked choke.”
[With her dominant position, Lennox tried to isolate an arm, looking for an armbar from the back, but Azevedo was able to lock her hands and force her weight on top of Lennox until she could pull her arm free, causing Lennox to lose her position. Azevedo was now in closed guard, but with another reversal, Lennox was back in full mount over Azevedo once again. With each fighter trying to gain the upper hand, the fight continued on the ground, with Lennox taking side mount, but Azevedo created some space and sprang to her feet, forcing the fight back to a standing position. She tried to take the fight to the ground with a single leg takedown, but Lennox sprawled backwards and freed her leg, causing the fight to remain standing.]
BODIE SULLIVAN: “What a back and forth battle we’re seeing here, B! Lennox was so close to finishing it with that armbar attempt, but Azevedo showed incredible resilience and managed to escape.”
BYRON McCALL: “Lennox had her in a vulnerable position, but Azevedo was able to escape and take advantage of the situation. Also, Lennox is doing a good job of defending against those attempts.”
[With both fighters launching tentative punches, Lennox managed to take the best of a brief punching exchange. Azevedo executes a sweep single, catching Lennox’s far ankle and tripping her to the mat once again. This time Azevedo found herself in closed guard over Lennox, but with Lennox holding her head against her chin, Azevedo wasn’t able to better her position on the ground. In another stunning reversal, Lennox managed to take control and was now in full mount over Azevedo once again. Azevedo tried to use her ground skills to escape from this position, but Lennox was too strong, pushing her down and preventing her attempts to escape. Lennox then tried to finish the fight with an armbar from the top, but Azevedo was smart enough to avoid the submission attempt.]
BODIE SULLIVAN: “Azevedo did a good job executing that sweep single and getting top position in closed guard, but Lennox’s defense has been downright impressive.”
BYRON McCALL: “Lennox is trying to finish the fight with an armbar, but Azevedo is staying calm and defending well. This is a great display of ground skills from both fighters.”
[With the end of the round approaching, Azevedo tried to move on the ground and escape from the full mount, but Lennox was determined not to lose her advantageous position. She sat high on Isabel Azevedo’s chest and pulled her leg underneath Azevedo’s head, attempting a triangle, but Azevedo is just too slick and easily rolls out just as the horn signals the end of the round.]
[The crowd roared with excitement as the second round was underway. Redd sized up her opponent, and with a fierce look in her eyes, she pushed Azevedo against the fence, determined to gain the upper hand. Both fighters were tied in a clinch, each trying to gain control. Isabel attempted to pull guard on Redd, but the champ wouldn’t have it. With a quick and powerful push, Redd sent her opponent sprawling to the mat, while she remained on her feet. Isabel kicked her legs, trying to keep Redd away, but Redd decided to create space and allowed her opponent to stand back up.]
BODIE SULLIVAN: “Redd is really dominating this round. She’s so strong in the clinch, and she’s not letting Azevedo take control.”
BYRON McCALL: “But Azevedo is still dangerous. She’s throwing those kicks with a lot of force, making Lennox think twice about her next move.”
[The two women circled each other, their muscles taut with tension. Then, in a flurry of motion, Redd began launching a barrage of punches at Azevedo. Each blow landed with a sickening thud, causing Azevedo to stagger backward. The fight was rapidly slipping out of her grasp. Redd attempted some clinching to control the fight, but Azevedo fought back fiercely. Redd managed to escape from the clinch just in time, avoiding being trapped against the fence.]
BODIE SULLIVAN: “Redd is really laying it on thick. Azevedo looks like she’s struggling to keep up.”
BYRON McCALL: “Yeah, those punches are brutal. Azevedo needs to find a way to get back in this fight.”
[But Azevedo wasn’t giving up. She swung wildly at Redd, landing a hard blow to her face. Despite the pain, Redd pushed forward, attempting to take the fight to her advantage. She moved in and held Azevedo in a clinch, grappling with her opponent and launching a flurry of counter punches. Azevedo was unable to get away, and her face showed the signs of the punishment she was taking. With a cut on her right cheek and swelling around her right eye, she was clearly in trouble.]
BODIE SULLIVAN: “It looks like Azevedo is in trouble. Redd has really taken control of this fight, and she’s not letting up.”
BYRON McCALL: “And those counter punches by Redd are really starting to add up. Azevedo’s face is showing the damage. “It’s going to be tough for Azevedo to come back from this. She needs to find a way to turn the tables on Redd, and fast.”
[The fight continued, each fighter launching punches and kicks, grappling for control. Redd threw bone-breaking punches to Azevedo’s ribs while in the clinch, causing her to wince in pain. Azevedo tried to break away and keep the fight at striking range, but Redd wouldn’t let her go. She pushed Azevedo against the cage and began working her dirty boxing, delivering uppercuts that landed with violent thuds. As the fight drew to a close, Redd continued to dominate. She launched another series of punches, hitting Azevedo hard and causing her to stumble. With a cut over her right eye and a small cut on her chin, Azevedo was clearly hurt and wondering how to escape from this onslaught. Finally, the horn sounded, and the referee separated the fighters.]
[The pressure in the air was heavy as the fighters entered the center of the octagon for round three. The roar of the crowd echoed through the arena, filling the room with electric energy that crackled with suspense. Isabel Azevedo had already taken a few hits in the previous rounds, and it was clear that she was feeling the effects of the fight. Azevedo’s face was already showing signs of the beating she had taken. Blood dripped from a cut over her left eye, and she struggled to keep her vision clear.]
BODIE SULLIVAN: “Isabel looks like she’s really feeling the effects of those punches. She’s struggling to keep her vision clear. She’s still in this fight, and anything can happen, but she needs to turn things around quickly.”
BYRON McCALL: “Yeah, it’s been a tough fight for her so far. But she’s a tough fighter, and she’s not giving up. She needs to start being more aggressive and go on the offensive.”
[Redd Lennox delivered a pulverizing punch to Azevedo’s head. The impact of the blow echoed through the arena, and the crowd gasped in shock. Azevedo stumbled back, her head spinning, and it was clear that she was in trouble. As Azevedo tried to regain her footing, Lennox came in for another attack. Azevedo fought back, but her movements were sluggish, and her vision was clearly impaired. With a quick strike, Lennox opened up another cut, this time over Azevedo’s right eye.]
BODIE SULLIVAN: “And Lennox lands another strike! Azevedo is bleeding badly now. She is not giving her any time to recover. She’s going in for the kill.”
BYRON McCALL: “It’s definitely not looking good for Azevedo. That punch really rocked her. She’s having a hard time getting her bearings back.”
[The referee, recognizing the seriousness of Azevedo’s injuries, immediately stopped the fight. The ringside physician rushed into the ring to examine Azevedo’s cuts, and it was clear that she could not continue safely. With a heavy heart, the referee waved off the fight, much to the disappointment of the crowd. As the fighters were met with their cornermen, the audience erupted into a chorus of boos and jeers. Both Azevedo and Lennox were visibly upset, their adrenaline still pumping as they absorbed the news. It was a bitter end to what had been a hard-fought battle, and the disappointment in the air was enormous.]
BODIE SULLIVAN: “Oh no. The referee is waving it off! What a disappointing end to the fight. Azevedo fought hard, but the doctor decided her injuries were just too severe to continue.”
BYRON McCALL: “It’s always tough to see a fighter go down like that. Lennox may have won, but I’m sure she’s feeling just as disappointed as Azevedo right now. The crowd is definitely not happy either. They were hoping for a knockout or a submission, not a medical stoppage.”
[Redd Lennox paces around the octagon, flanked by her trusted cornermen. Everyone’s face shows a look of stunning disappointment. No one wants a fight to stop this way, but regardless, Lennox will move on. But despite the disappointment, Izzy remained composed on her end. She knew that injuries were part of the game, and that she would have to move on from this setback. Meanwhile, the ringside physicians worked feverishly to stop the bleeding and patch up her wound. The bleeding stopped long enough for Lennox and Azevedo to meet in the center of the octagon for the official announcement of the winner.]
MIKE DEMPSEY: “Ladies and gentlemen, due to a doctor’s stoppage, referee Bruno Alves has called for a stop in this fight at forty-two seconds in the third round, declaring your winner by technical knockout, AAAAAAAAND STIIIIIILL the undisputed Union Grand Prix Bantamweight Champion of the World, “Thee Feisty Cheetoh” Redd Lennox!”
[The audience is a mixed bag at best still, some were cheering, some were booing. The facial expressions from those inside the octagon are blank, showing their professionalism in a time that’s truly tested. Lennox has her hand raised in victory and the title wrapped around her waist. 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: Redd Lennox by TKO (Doctor Stoppage) at 0:42 Round 3
Statistics: Redd Lennox
Punches 8/11 (73%)
Kicks 0/0 (0%)
Clinch strikes 47/69 (68%)
Takedowns 0/0 (0%)
GnP strikes 0/0 (0%)
Submissions 4/4 (100%)
Clinch Attempts 2/2 (100%)
Time on the ground 236 s
Statistics: Isabel Azevedo
Punches 1/3 (33%)
Kicks 0/0 (0%)
Clinch strikes 0/13 (0%)
Takedowns 2/5 (40%)
GnP strikes 0/0 (0%)
Submissions 0/0 (0%)
Clinch Attempts 0/0 (0%)
Time on the ground 260 s
[The roar of the crowd slowly died down, and a hush fell over the arena as the chaos of the last few moments finally settled. As Bodie Sullivan made his way into the cage, the audience held its breath, eager to hear what the seasoned commentator had to say with the winner. He moved with purpose, his sharp suit and polished shoes a stark contrast to the raw energy that had just been unleashed in the octagon.]
BODIE SULLIVAN: “Ladies and gentlemen, I am here with the winner AND STILL undisputed Bantamweight Champion, Redd Lennox! Redd, probably not the way you wanted to end this fight, but for as long as it lasted, it seemed like we were on our way to you still carrying that title one way or another.”
REDD LENNOX: “Yeah, it’s never fun stopping a fight prematurely. I think Izzy was still good and had plenty in the tank to keep going, but the doctor had a job to do, and he felt like this was in the best interest of fighter safety. Izzy brought it, she does each and every fight. There is no let up with her. She’s gonna do what she does, but tonight I was just better. I stayed a step ahead of her and was able to pick up the win. Mexico…one time for Izzy you all. Of course, thank you Isabel. Thanks for being a great opponent and helping me make sure UGP was bringing the fireworks to Mexico. I’m sure we’ll see each other again down the road.”
BODIE SULLIVAN: “Your story on how you’ve reached this point has been incredible. From earning a Union GP contract AND a play-in spot to running the table, winning and defending the title. How does it feel going through this whole process?”
REDD LENNOX: “Hey, it’s special right. How many people can say they’ve won a UGP Grand Prix. I outlasted everyone. I won the belt and defended it all in one Grand Prix. It just seems like I can’t stop doing what I do best and that’s winning. I’m just very glad that I got the chance to come out here and do this in front of you guys. You all were amazing all night, and if I could do it all over again I would. Everyone says you are not the true champion until you defend, so Mexico!!! What does that make me?!”
BODIE SULLIVAN: “You have fought four times already this year. I’d imagine you’d like some time off to rest, heal up, and just have the chance to finally soak it all in. When can we expect you back in action, and do you have anyone in mind as your next opponent?”
REDD LENNOX: “There is no doubt that I have been fighting a lot, but whenever I’m called to fight again I’ll be ready whenever that is, right now I just wanna bask in this moment with everyone that came out and supported us tonight. Without you all, there wouldn’t be a UGP. I love you all and as long as I’m champion I’m gonna make sure to give you what you want. Tonight was the last fight on my contract so once I get healed up and things back on track I think that’s what’s next. Signing a new deal and going from there. But as far as who’s next? Gianna still deserves a rematch. If 2Face is really all bark then hey maybe we should talk about a champion versus champion fight. Heck, what’s up Latti? I sure would like to hold that number one spot in the world. Of course, I see someone sitting in the crowd who I would love to go up against, CC Flynn, but hey I’m really down for whatever.”
[In a split second, the tension in the arena skyrocketed as CC Flynn effortlessly scaled the towering fence and landed with a thud, her intense gaze fixed on Redd Lennox, who was standing on the opposite side of the octagon. The aura was heavy with suspense as the two fighters locked eyes and began hurling vicious profanities at each other. The audience was on the edge of their seats, their hearts pounding with adrenaline, as the confrontation between the two women quickly turned physical.]
[Despite the officials’ attempts to intervene and separate the two fighters, CC Flynn and Redd Lennox continued their heated exchange, their bodies pressed together in a shoving match that threatened to spill over into an all-out brawl. As the tension between the two camps escalated, more members of PRODIGY 206 rushed into the octagon, their fists clenched and their eyes burning with fury.]
[Suddenly, out of nowhere, a punch was thrown, and chaos erupted. Spectators started throwing trash into the octagon while around a dozen professional fighters were in a free-for-all brawl and fear was at an all-time high. The noise level in the arena rose to a deafening pitch as the situation spiraled out of control. Security and Union GP officials rushed into the octagon to separate the fighters and restore order, but the brawling and chaos continued unabated.]
[As the dust finally settled, the streaming feed abruptly cut to black, leaving the audience in stunned silence. The atmosphere in the arena was frozen in shock with a sense of danger and violence, and it was clear that this was a moment that would go down in history as one of the most explosive and unforgettable closing moments in the world of MMA.]