
ROUND ONE: The crowd is quickly filling in the Barclays Center as the kickoff bout is ready to begin. Jordan Ripley will oversee this Lightweight contest and the stage is set for an intense clash between Jethro Benson and Benji Meyers. As the bell rang, the fighters wasted no time engaging in a fierce exchange. Benson unleashed a looping right hand, but Meyers swiftly evaded it, retaliating with lightning-fast jabs and crosses that seemed to rock Benson. Undeterred, Benson attempted a hook to the body, but Meyers skillfully dodged it, launching punishing low kicks that battered Benson’s legs. In a moment of vulnerability, Benson hyper-extended his left leg, leaving him noticeably off-balance. Sensing an opportunity, Meyers pressed forward, displaying a perfect blend of agility and precision. Benson charged forward, attempting a double leg takedown. With remarkable timing, he succeeded, m taking Meyers off his feet, but the resilient Meyers managed to pull Benson into his guard on the way down. On the ground, Benson fought to improve his position, attempting to break Meyers’ closed guard, but Meyers skillfully locked him down, refusing to give an inch. Benson tried to escape, but Meyers held him in place, denying any chance of freedom. In a clumsy moment for Benson, Meyers seized the opportunity to retaliate, unleashing a barrage of punches that found their mark. Benson rolled to his side, attempting to trap Meyers in his guard, but Meyers maintained control and secured a dominant full mount position. With the action on the ground stalling, the referee made the decision to stand the fighters up. Both competitors rose to their feet, the crowd eagerly anticipating the continuation of the thrilling contest. Benson launched a combination, but Meyers deftly ducked under, countering with a devastating straight that found its mark. Sensing some dire urgency, Benson swung once more, only to be met with another devastating counter. In a dramatic climax, Benson crumbled to the mat, unconscious, as the crowd erupted in excitement for the young prospect scoring a first round finish.
Winner: Benji Meyers by KO (Punch) at 1:51 Round 1
Statistics: Benji Meyers
Punches 12/18 (67%)
Kicks 3/3 (100%)
Clinch strikes 0/0 (0%)
Takedowns 0/0 (0%)
GnP strikes 1/3 (33%)
Submissions 0/0 (0%)
Clinch Attempts 0/0 (0%)
Time on the ground 43 s
Statistics: Jethro Benson
Punches 0/3 (0%)
Kicks 0/0 (0%)
Clinch strikes 0/0 (0%)
Takedowns 1/1 (100%)
GnP strikes 0/0 (0%)
Submissions 0/0 (0%)
Clinch Attempts 0/0 (0%)
Time on the ground 43 s
ROUND ONE: Lars Levy steps into the center as the referee, ready to officiate the thrilling Middleweight bout about to unfold. The anticipation builds as the bell rings, signaling the start of the first round. Alfie O’Shea, focused and determined, carefully studies his opponent, searching for any opening in her defense. Both fighters begin their dance, circling the cage, eyeing each other with intense concentration. Suddenly, the action explodes as they unleash a flurry of strikes. Venus Sagapolutele manages to land a few crisp punches, showcasing her impressive accuracy. Alfie retaliates with a brilliant combination, displaying his technical prowess. Venus, showing her evasive skills, skillfully dodges the incoming barrage. Undeterred, Alfie expertly avoids a dangerous strike from Venus, countering with a series of precise punches to keep her at bay. However, Venus retaliates with a thunderous low kick, crashing into Alfie’s left leg. The impact is undeniable as Alfie’s leg hyperextends, creating a gasp from the crowd. Both fighters resume circling the cage, analyzing their opponent’s every move. Alfie, seeking an opening, unleashes a series of jabs, only to be met by Venus’ counter punches. Alfie finds himself on the receiving end of a powerful combination by Venus, testing his resilience. The two fighters continue to exchange blows, but the shots lack the necessary power to cause significant damage. Venus delivers a lightning-fast low kick, creating an audible slap upon impact. Alfie’s leg once again hyperextends, causing him to wince in pain. Venus capitalizes on the moment, faking a punch and showcasing her footwork as she evades Alfie’s retaliation. After a brief moment to catch his breath, Alfie recovers and lands a crisp uppercut followed by a hard jab. Venus skillfully deflects the blows, countering with her own strikes. Alfie’s attempt to regain control falters, allowing Venus to unleash a punishing liver kick that nearly turns the tide of the fight. Alfie steps backward, creating some distance, as he tries to regroup. He launches a hook to Venus’ body, hoping to find an opening, but she swiftly moves aside, searching for a counter opportunity. The exchange continues, with both fighters narrowly avoiding devastating counter punches. Alfie’s jabs seem to have little effect on Venus, as she remains composed and focused. As the round comes to a close, the referee steps in, separating the fighters, signaling the end of an action-packed and intense round.
Isaac Cohen’s Scorecard (Unofficial): 10-9 Sagapolutele
ROUND TWO: The second round begins with Venus launching a kick, but Alfie expertly checks it and maintains his distance. However, Venus quickly retaliates with another solid low kick, aiming to weaken Alfie’s legs. Alfie attempts a hook, but it falls short. As he moves backward, Venus taunts him, questioning whether he came to fight or run. Determined to prove himself, Alfie engages in a wild exchange of punches with Venus. However, it is Venus who gains the upper hand, landing a series of powerful blows. A small cut appears on Alfie’s forehead, evidence of the intense battle unfolding. Venus continues to unleash tremendous strikes, delivering big punches with precision. The two fighters trade blows in an electrifying exchange, with Venus once again showcasing her superior striking skills. Alfie endures punishment as Venus repeatedly fires punishing low kicks at his legs. In the center of the cage, the fighters size each other up, searching for an opening. Alfie decides to launch some tentative punches, but Venus confidently takes the best of the brief exchange. Alfie attempts an unorthodox punch to Venus’ torso, but it goes wide, allowing Venus to seize the opportunity to counter. She lands a good front kick, causing Alfie to stumble backward. Venus doesn’t let up and follows up with a high kick that finds its mark. Alfie appears visibly hurt, stumbling backward and becoming an easy target for Venus. Undeterred, Alfie fakes a move and launches a nice uppercut, but Venus skillfully blocks it. Venus lands an inside leg kick on Alfie’s leg, adding to his accumulating damage. Alfie attempts to change the course of the fight with a single leg takedown, but Venus sprawls back, successfully defending herself. The round concludes with both fighters sizing each other up once again in the center of the cage. Lars Levy steps in to separate the fighters and the two fighters shake hands before heading back to their respective corners, leaving the audience eagerly anticipating the final thrilling round.
Isaac Cohen’s Scorecard (Unofficial): 10-9 Sagapolutele (20-18 Sagapolutele)
ROUND THREE: In the third round, Alfie goes back to the well, grabbing hold of Venus Sagapolutele’s right leg, aiming to take her down. However, Venus showcases incredible balance and strength, pushing Alfie away with ease. Capitalizing on Alfie’s failed attempt, Venus retaliates swiftly. With lightning speed, Venus lands a bone-shattering straight left hand, connecting solidly with Alfie’s head. The impact is devastating, and it’s clear that Alfie will be nursing a massive headache after that powerful blow. The crowd watches in awe as Venus demonstrates her exceptional striking ability and precision. Studying her opponent intently, Venus searches for any opening in Alfie’s defense. Meanwhile, Alfie, undeterred by the previous exchange, attempts another takedown. Venus Sagapolutele effortlessly evades his advance, hopping back with agility. In a breathtaking display of skill, Venus delivers a powerful kick directly to Alfie’s head as he gets back to his feet. The impact is earth-shattering, leaving Alfie unconscious on the mat. The referee quickly intervenes, waving off the fight and declaring Venus Sagapolutele the victor by knockout.
Winner: Venus Sagapolutele by KO (High Kick) at 0:54 Round 3
Statistics: Venus Sagapolutele
Punches 23/28 (82%)
Kicks 13/13 (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: Alfie O’Shea
Punches 3/38 (8%)
Kicks 0/0 (0%)
Clinch strikes 0/0 (0%)
Takedowns 0/2 (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 between MANDEM and Ammar Elamin took off with a bang. From the first bell, the fighters wasted no time engaging in a fierce exchange, keeping referee Ron Anderson on his toes from the jump. MANDEM showcased his boxing prowess, landing solid punches that outclassed his opponent. The intensity escalated as both fighters unleashed a flurry of strikes, although many fell short. MANDEM strategically sought angles and fired off jabs, only to face Elamin’s counterpunches. MANDEM quickly turned the tables with a devastating straight right hand that had Elamin ducking for cover. In a surprising turn of events, Elamin managed to take MANDEM down with a single leg. With Elamin in side mount, he seized the opportunity to rain down punches on MANDEM’s body. Undeterred, MANDEM fought back from the guard, testing Elamin’s ribs with powerful blows. With a swift transition, Elamin attempted to mount MANDEM, but the latter swiftly locked his opponent in half guard. MANDEM’s defense held firm as Elamin struggled to land effective strikes. In an attempt to capitalize, Elamin aimed to free his leg, but MANDEM was quick to counter with weak punches. As both fighters scrambled to their feet, the action remained fierce. MANDEM’s punch was deftly blocked by Elamin, who sensed an opening to bring the fight to the ground once more. With another takedown, Elamin found himself in open guard, unleashing a barrage of punches that MANDEM skillfully deflected. Despite Elamin’s attempts to secure a dominant position, MANDEM resisted his mount and guard advances. The referee eventually stood the fighters up due to a lack of activity, allowing them to continue their battle on their feet. Determined to capitalize on his ground game, Elamin executed another takedown, this time passing to half guard. Elamin controlled the fight on the ground, launching punches at MANDEM. However, MANDEM displayed excellent defense, eventually rolling and reversing the position. The referee intervened once more, standing the fighters up due to a lack of activity. In the final moments of the round, Elamin made one last effort to take MANDEM down. Capitalizing on a loss of balance, he secured side mount, attempting to transition to full mount, but MANDEM exhibited resilience, preventing Elamin from establishing dominance. As the horn sounded, signaling the end of the round, both fighters took deep breaths, leaving the spectators eagerly anticipating the next round of this compelling matchup.
Isaac Cohen’s Scorecard (Unofficial): 10-9 Elamin
ROUND TWO: The second round kicked off with both fighters displaying immense respect for one another. MANDEM threw a powerful punch that narrowly missed Elamin, who wasted no time attempting another single leg takedown. Elamin found himself in open guard, but despite his efforts, he made no progress. However, the tides quickly turned when Elamin unleashed a relentless onslaught on MANDEM, forcing the referee to warn that he would stop the fight if MANDEM didn’t defend himself. A small laceration appeared on MANDEM’s nose, evidence of the ferocity of Elamin’s strikes. Elamin sought to improve his position and managed to free a leg, transitioning to half guard. With an intense focus, Elamin pushed MANDEM’s leg and skillfully moved to full mount, placing MANDEM in a precarious position. MANDEM refused to back down, attempting to roll to his side and trap Elamin in his guard. MANDEM managed to regain full guard, but in a small lapse in judgment, MANDEM presented an opportunity for Elamin to capitalize. Elamin feigned punches to open up MANDEM’s defense and relentlessly struck the side of his head, displaying incredible aggression. Elamin remained determined to pass MANDEM’s guard, but MANDEM’s resilience and tight grip thwarted his efforts. Elamin faked a few punches, landing a significant blow to MANDEM’s face. With his guard intact, MANDEM proved difficult to overcome. In an impressive feat of strength, Elamin lifted MANDEM and forcefully brought him to the mat, landing in open guard. Elamin unleashed a devastating right hand to MANDEM’s face, seeking to finish the fight on the ground. Despite his relentless assault, Elamin struggled to pass MANDEM’s guard. Many of his punches were absorbed by MANDEM’s defense, limiting their impact. However, Elamin’s determination remained unyielding as he faked punches and landed another powerful strike to MANDEM’s face. Transitioning to side mount, Elamin attempted to open MANDEM’s guard. Unleashing a barrage of powerful strikes, Elamin found success, leaving MANDEM vulnerable. Elamin pressed forward, looking to mount MANDEM. With his knee sliding across, Elamin secured the mount position. Elamin delivered punishing blows to the body. MANDEM retaliated with a series of weak punches, but Elamin effectively blocked them. MANDEM resorted to closed guard, attempting to keep Elamin at bay, but Elamin made an impressive move, rolling on the ground and reclaiming full mount. As the round came to a close, the referee intervened and separated the fighters, signaling the end of the intense action.
Isaac Cohen’s Scorecard (Unofficial): 10-9 Elamin (20-18 Elamin)
ROUND THREE: In an explosive third and final round, Ammar Elamin and MANDEM unleashed a wild exchange of punches, igniting the arena with their relentless aggression. MANDEM found success, landing a series of blows and gaining the upper hand in the exchange. With a strategic eye, MANDEM studied Elamin, searching for any weaknesses in his defense. However, MANDEM’s jabs failed to have a visible effect, as Elamin retaliated with a deceptive liver kick. MANDEM successfully blocked the kick and pushed Elamin away. Elamin responded with a furious low kick, delivering a powerful blow to MANDEM’s right leg. Elamin attempted to grapple, putting MANDEM in a double underhook position. However, MANDEM managed to create distance and stumbled backward, allowing Elamin to circle and claim the center of the cage. MANDEM attempted a well-executed uppercut, but Elamin skillfully blocked the strike. MANDEM followed with a hook to the body, but Elamin evaded it with quick footwork. Elamin then unleashed a high kick that narrowly missed its target. MANDEM retaliated with a nice punch that nearly connected with Elamin, showcasing his determination to turn the tide. The fighters engaged in another wild exchange, both landing punches and making it clear that a knockout was within reach for either competitor. Elamin strategically avoided several body shots launched by MANDEM, then grabbed him by the waist and executed a great takedown. Elamin found himself in open guard, attempting to pass to half guard. However, MANDEM quickly closed his guard, preventing the pass. MANDEM unleashed hammer punches to Elamin’s ribs, but Elamin effectively blocked them. Elamin launched a few fake punches, attempting to escape from MANDEM’s guard. MANDEM defended himself, but his actions momentarily gave Elamin his back in a clumsy manner. In a display of resilience, MANDEM measured Elamin’s ribs, landing big punches from the guard position. Elamin blocked the hits while working on the ground. Elamin seized an opportunity to counter, delivering a powerful punch to MANDEM’s face. As the final horn sounded, the referee separated the fighters, bringing an end to the intense round and leaving the outcome hanging in the balance.
Isaac Cohen’s Scorecard (Unofficial): 10-9 Elamin (30-27 Elamin)
JUDGES’ SCORECARDS
Ammar Elamin 10 10 10: 30
MANDEM 9 9 9: 27
Ammar Elamin 10 10 10: 30
MANDEM 9 9 9: 27
Ammar Elamin 10 10 10: 30
MANDEM 9 9 9: 27
Winner: Ammar Elamin by Unanimous Decision
Statistics: Ammar Elamin
Punches 8/12 (67%)
Kicks 1/3 (33%)
Clinch strikes 0/0 (0%)
Takedowns 2/2 (100%)
GnP strikes 34/46 (74%)
Submissions 0/0 (0%)
Clinch Attempts 0/0 (0%)
Time on the ground 545 s
Statistics: MANDEM
Punches 10/28 (36%)
Kicks 0/0 (0%)
Clinch strikes 0/0 (0%)
Takedowns 0/0 (0%)
GnP strikes 0/23 (0%)
Submissions 0/0 (0%)
Clinch Attempts 0/0 (0%)
Time on the ground 545 s
ROUND ONE: The highly respected referee Archie Driscoll kicks off the action for this Lightweight bout by signing for the bell to begin the first round. Regis Pierre Paul and D’Ante Jackson waste no time and engage in an explosive exchange. RPP starts landing a series of powerful punches, showcasing his immense strength and precision. One punch, in particular, a Superman punch, smashes into Jackson’s face like a wrecking ball, leaving the audience in awe. However, Jackson manages to avoid a dangerous follow up strike from RPP and counters with some feel-out punches of his own. The two fighters continue to trade blows, with RPP connecting with a few more solid punches, testing Jackson’s chin. It’s a back-and-forth battle as both fighters display incredible resilience. RPP launches a brilliant combination that puts Jackson on the defensive, forcing him to try and defend himself better. Not willing to back down, RPP continues to press forward, attempting tentative punches that pay off. Meanwhile, Jackson throws a lazy kick, which RPP effortlessly dodges and counters with a devastating uppercut that nearly sends Jackson flying. Showing his dominance, RPP decides to take control by initiating a clinch. Jackson attempts to break free, but RPP keeps him trapped, denying any escape. With RPP looking for an advantage, he changes levels for a takedown, successfully tripping Jackson to the mat. RPP wastes no time trying to pass Jackson’s guard, and with a skillful maneuver, he frees his leg and transitions to half guard. Maintaining control, RPP seizes the opportunity and hooks Jackson’s right leg, securing a tight kneebar. The pressure is intense as RPP extends his hips, forcing Jackson to tap out, signaling a big first round finish for Pierre Paul.
Winner: Regis Pierre Paul by Submission (Kneebar) at 2:30 Round 1
Statistics: Regis Pierre Paul
Punches 17/22 (77%)
Kicks 0/0 (0%)
Clinch strikes 0/0 (0%)
Takedowns 1/1 (100%)
GnP strikes 0/0 (0%)
Submissions 1/1 (100%)
Clinch Attempts 1/1 (100%)
Time on the ground 18 s
Statistics: D’Ante Jackson
Punches 0/8 (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 18 s
ROUND ONE: In the final prelim bout of the night, officiated by the vexing Bruno Alves, Mike Hunt and Mikael Ekström waste no time, touching gloves and launching into action. Hunt swiftly identifies a gap in Ekström’s defense, delivering a powerful hook that nearly shatters Ekström’s ribs off the rip. The onslaught continues as Hunt unleashes a furious flurry of punches, leaving Ekström in a world of agony. Ekström retaliates with a well-placed right hand, but Hunt expertly deflects it. Hunt then responds with a superb haymaker, connecting with Ekström’s face like a cannonball. The fighters engage in an intense back-and-forth, with Hunt attempting to find angles through jabs, only to be met with a counterpunch from Ekström. The excitement mounts as both fighters unleash a wild exchange of punches, teetering on the edge of a potential knockout. Ekström manages to land a solid low kick, but Hunt skillfully checks it, seeking an opportunity to counter. With precision, Hunt delivers a crisp uppercut followed by a hard jab, causing Ekström to stumble. A small cut emerges on Ekström’s mouth, evidence of the ferocity of the fight. Ekström launches another furious low kick, but Hunt checks it, refusing to yield ground. Ekström then initiates some jabs to find his range, but Hunt finds the better exchanges in this brief trade-off. Both fighters unleash their remaining energy, landing blows that fall just short of their intended targets. Hunt manages to land a devastating overhand right that could topple a brick wall. Astonishingly, Ekström remains standing, showcasing his resilience. Hunt continues his assault, throwing jabs and testing Ekström’s chin with an uppercut, while Ekström retaliates with powerful crosses. Briefly taking a moment to catch his breath, Hunt resumes his attack, engaging in another exchange of jabs and counters with Ekström. The fighters unleash a flurry of punches, with Ekström displaying impressive defensive skills, and Hunt landing several glancing blows. But Hunt refuses to be deterred, launching a final assault that culminates in a big hook connecting with Ekström’s cheek. Ekström stumbles and collapses to the mat, leaving Hunt with a clear opportunity to finish the fight. Hunt delivers a solid kick to Ekström’s thigh, resonating with a loud pop. Sensing that his opponent still possesses fighting spirit, Hunt retreats and motions for Ekström to rise. Ekström manages to regain his footing, albeit unsteadily. Hunt seizes the moment, attempting to cut off Ekström with a barrage of punches, leaving Ekström reeling. As the horn signals the end of the round, the referee steps in to halt the action. The exhilarating first round concludes, leaving the crowd hungry for more.
Isaac Cohen’s Scorecard (Unofficial): 10-9 Hunt
ROUND TWO: As the second round commences, both fighters re-engage with a flurry of strikes. Hunt goes for a looping right hand, while Ekström evades and counters with a jab. However, their exchanges lack significant power, leaving both fighters unscathed. Suddenly, Hunt lands a hard blow to Ekström’s midsection, visibly hurting him. Ekström stumbles backward, presenting an easy target for Hunt to capitalize on. Seizing the moment, Hunt presses forward and delivers a powerful Superman punch, further rattling Ekström. Hunt then attempts to take Ekström down, latching onto his left leg. Ekström loses his balance and falls to the ground, with Hunt quickly transitioning to a dominant side mount position. From the side mount, Hunt launches a barrage of punches, repeatedly connecting with Ekström’s face. The impact causes Ekström’s right cheek to swell, and a small laceration emerges. Determined to solidify his advantage, Hunt attempts to move into a full mount position, successfully executing the maneuver. Ekström desperately tries to escape, but Hunt remains composed and transitions back to side mount to maintain control. Hunt then looks to return to full mount, skillfully sliding his knee across and achieving the desired position. From there, he contemplates launching ground and pound attacks, confidently controlling the situation. In a last-ditch effort, Ekström tries to roll to his side and trap Hunt in his guard, but Hunt quickly counters, rolling him over and taking Ekström’s back. Now in the rear mount, Hunt expertly stifles Ekström’s feeble punches, blocking them effectively. Hunt intensifies his dominance, attempting to hook a leg. Ekström finds himself in a dire situation as Hunt persistently works for a submission or further punishment. Despite his efforts, Ekström fails to escape, and Hunt maintains his position, hovering above him. Sensing an opportunity, Ekström shows a momentary crack in his guard as he attempts to move on the ground. Hunt capitalizes instantly, unleashing a massive elbow strike that lands squarely on Ekström’s temple. The impact rocks Ekström’s head against the mat, resulting in an astonishing knockout victory for Hunt. The New York crowd erupts with cheers, giving the Queens native a sentimental sendoff for the retiring Mike Hunt.
Winner: Mike Hunt by KO (Elbow) at 2:53 Round 2
Statistics: Mike Hunt
Punches 36/57 (63%)
Kicks 1/1 (100%)
Clinch strikes 0/1 (0%)
Takedowns 1/1 (100%)
GnP strikes 8/9 (89%)
Submissions 0/0 (0%)
Clinch Attempts 0/0 (0%)
Time on the ground 125 s
Statistics: Mikael Ekström
Punches 17/21 (81%)
Kicks 0/2 (0%)
Clinch strikes 0/0 (0%)
Takedowns 0/0 (0%)
GnP strikes 0/3 (0%)
Submissions 0/0 (0%)
Clinch Attempts 0/0 (0%)
Time on the ground 142 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 men stood poised for battle. Bodie Sullivan, along with Hall of Famer Byron McCall, were dressed to the nines, ready for action. 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 Barclays Center in Brooklyn, New York, and the octagon is officially open for business for UGP 47: LENNOX versus MORUGA! Hello everyone and thank you for tuning in. I am Bodie Sullivan and joining me tonight is the Hall of Fame Legend, “The Last Call” Byron McCall! It’s great to be back in action, calling the shots with you, B! It has been an absolutely wild ride leading up to this night, and the plot twists keep on contorting all the way to the day of the weigh-ins.”
BYRON McCALL:“Bodie, I can’t remember a time in recent memory where this much hype and build was generated for a fight, and we were all looking forward to seeing it. Unfortunately, early Saturday morning, Dante Reed broke the news that CC Flynn pulled out of the fight due to an undisclosed injury, putting the Bantamweight Champion Redd Lennox in jeopardy of not competing on this card. The bossman scrambled to salvage this title fight, and made it all happen on the fly. Magdalena Moruga made championship weight during the official weigh-ins, and was quickly swept away by various Union executives to work out a deal. Magdalena Moruga agreed to step in as a late replacement, setting up a surprise rematch from their previous encounter during the Bantamweight Championship Grand Prix.”
BODIE SULLIVAN:“We know that the fight will still be five rounds, which poses an unexpected challenge for Magdalena Moruga. Less than 24 hours ago, she was making the final preparations for a three-round bout against former champion Dallas Meechan, but now gets thrusted into the Main Event slot for a crack at the title. It may not be the best of circumstances for Moruga to get that second shot at Lennox, but in this business, these opportunities come few and far between, so when it presents itself, you pounce on it. But with all of that chaos that has surrounded the 135 pound championship fight, the rest of the card stays intact. Our Co-Main Event features the unbeaten Noah Vanderkaay defending his Middleweight Title against the wunderkind Derrius Webb.”
BYRON McCALL:“This is going to be an incredible fight, Bodie. Both of these guys like to get after it but they have very distinctly different approaches. Vanderkaay likes to crowd his opponent and suffocate them with his high volume striking, whereas Derrius Webb likes to snipe his opponents with his freakishly long range to create the separation and pick them apart. This is going to be a phenomenal fight, I cannot wait for it.”
BODIE SULLIVAN:“And the rest of the undercard is stacked. We got top five Middleweights throwing down in the featured undercard bout. The veteran Eagle Mondalvi takes on the former Everest MMA Welterweight Champion and unbeaten contender Kian De Beer. You have to think the winner of this fight will be next in line for the title.”
BYRON McCALL:“No doubt about it. Both of these guys have been amazing as they climbed the rankings. Both of these guys are deserving of a title fight in my mind, this fight will simply determine who gets there first.”
BODIE SULLIVAN:“We’ve also got a big stakes Lightweight bout between Erick Costa and former Everest MMA Featherweight Champion Sadie Williams. We have seen a resurgence from Erick Costa as of late and he’s looking to make it three straight dubs with a win over Sadie Williams. However, Williams is on a roll as well. She has won five of her last six bouts, with the one outlier being a draw with Masami Rose, which she would later get the win over Rose in the SZN 3 finals for the Featherweight crown.”
BYRON McCALL:“It’s a fight that could have title implications on the line. We’re not really sure what is to come next for the 155 pound Champ 2Face Rodríguez. He’s been vague on his next fight even though there’s a lot of talk of a rematch with Paige Holloway. Perhaps one of these fighters could deliver a stunning performance that leapfrogs them into the next title fight. Anything can happen in this sport and business, Bodie.”
BODIE SULLIVAN:“You can say that again. And to kickoff the main card, we have a Heavyweight bout between the SZN 3 Everest MMA Cruiserweight Champion and unbeaten prospect Mauro Santos de Lima taking on the homegrown Brooklyn native, Cortez Gaines. Santos de Lima has been absolutely unstoppable throughout all of his eleven pro fights, but this one could very well be one of those trap situations.”
BYRON McCALL:“Yeah I can see where you’re coming from, Bodie. Mauro is the heavy favorite in this fight, but he’s fighting on hostile territory. Cortez Gaines is going to have the entire crowd rallying behind him, and if Santos de Lima isn’t careful, he could get caught by one of Gaines’ lethal hands.”
BODIE SULLIVAN:“We’ll be here every step of the way, breaking down the action and providing you with the best analysis in the business, folks. So with that, let’s toss it over to our very own hype man himself, the mouthpiece of MMA, Mike Dempsey, who’s on stand by awaiting his cue. Ladies and gentlemen, IT’S BOUT TIME!”
MIKE DEMPSEY: “Ladies and gentlemen, we are live exclusively on the Battleground Network here at the sold out Barclays Center in Brooklyn, New York for UGP 47: LENNOX versus MORUGA! And now, this opening contest is scheduled for three rounds in the Union Grand Prix Heavyweight Division! Introducing first, fighting out of the blue corner, a Boxer holding a professional mixed martial arts record of six wins, five losses. He stands 6’2”, and weighing in at 240 pounds. He is from Brooklyn, New York, presenting “King” Cortez Gaines!
[In the heart of his beloved hometown, Cortez Gaines steps out from his corner with a fusion of adrenaline and anticipation pulsating through his veins. With a confident stride, he commences a rhythmic dance, encircling the canvas like a predator prowling its territory. As he lingers in his corner, a surge of energy courses through him, and he thrusts his hands skyward, beckoning the fervent crowd to join him on this exhilarating journey.]
MIKE DEMPSEY: “And his opponent, fighting out of the red corner, a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Grappler holding a perfect professional mixed martial arts record of eleven wins, no losses. He stands 6’4”, and weighing in at 265 pounds. He is from Salvador, Bahia, Brazil, presenting the former Everest MMA Cruiserweight Champion, and the number eight ranked Heavyweight Contender in the World, “Jibóia” Mauro Santos de Lima!”
[A growing pressure of anticipation hangs in the air, as if time itself is holding its breath. Bathed in the vibrant glow of the overhead lights, Mauro Santos de Lima emanates an aura of unwavering composure and intense concentration. His eyes, ablaze with determination, lock onto his opponent like twin flames across the expansive octagon. With every subtle sway of his body, tension engulfs the arena, weaving through the spectators like an invisible current. In this moment, time seems to bend to his will, as the world around him fades into a blur of insignificance. Mauro’s focus sharpens, zeroing in on the imminent battle that lies ahead.]
ROUND ONE: Mauro Santos de Lima and Cortez Gaines step into the octagon as the crowd roars with anticipation. The referee, Colin Davenport, signals the start of the fight, and both fighters explode into action. Right from the beginning, Santos de Lima shows his aggression, targeting Gaines’ ribs with thunderous hooks, sending shockwaves through the arena. Gaines tries to defend himself, but Santos de Lima unleashes a brilliant combination that pushes Gaines to the brink. Aiming to turn the tide, Gaines throws a powerful hook to Santos de Lima’s body. The impact is felt as the audience collectively winces, but Santos de Lima withstands the blow with determination. Seizing an opportunity, Gaines unleashes a big right hand, but Santos de Lima exhibits his superb agility, swiftly dodging the strike. Gaines’ miss leaves him vulnerable, and Santos de Lima capitalizes on the moment. The crowd explodes as Santos de Lima retaliates with a relentless barrage of strikes, landing some colossal punches that reverberate through the arena. With the momentum firmly in his favor, Santos de Lima surprises Gaines with a thunderous uppercut that finds its mark, further asserting his dominance. Sensing an opening, Santos de Lima changes tactics and executes a lightning-quick takedown, catching Gaines off guard. On the ground, Santos de Lima finds himself in open guard, poised to unleash his ground game. In a display of technical prowess, Santos de Lima fakes a move, luring Gaines into a false sense of security. Suddenly, he transitions into a kneebar, locking it in with precision. The pain is too much for Gaines to bear, and he screams in agony, frantically tapping out. Colin Davenport, the vigilant referee, swiftly intervenes, forcing Santos de Lima to release the submission hold. In a spectacular fashion, Mauro Santos de Lima emerges victorious, with the crowd stunned by Mauro Santos de Lima’s masterful performance inside the octagon.
Winner: Mauro Santos de Lima by Submission (Kneebar) at 1:43 Round 1
Statistics: Mauro Santos de Lima
Punches 9/13 (69%)
Kicks 0/0 (0%)
Clinch strikes 0/0 (0%)
Takedowns 1/1 (100%)
GnP strikes 0/0 (0%)
Submissions 1/1 (100%)
Clinch Attempts 0/0 (0%)
Time on the ground 10 s
Statistics: Cortez Gaines
Punches 4/6 (67%)
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 10 s
MIKE DEMPSEY: “Ladies and gentlemen, the following contest is scheduled for three rounds in the Union Grand Prix Lightweight Division! Introducing first, fighting out of the blue corner, a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Grappler holding a professional mixed martial arts record of twelve wins, five losses, one draw. She stands 5’9”, and weighing in at 149 pounds. She is from Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada, fighting out of 10th Planet Vancouver, presenting the former Everest MMA Featherweight Champion and the number three ranked Lightweight Contender in the World, “The Serpent” Sadie Williams!”
[Amidst the chaos of the arena, Sadie Williams stood tall in her corner, her eyes a window into the depths of her determination. The spotlight cast a warm glow upon her, illuminating the beads of sweat that glistened on her forehead like diamonds. Her muscles rippled as she bounces in place, a testament to the countless hours she had spent honing her craft in the solitude of the gym. As the roars of the crowd washed over her, Sadie’s focus remained firm. The corners of her lips curled ever so slightly into a grin, acknowledging the sea of faces that had gathered to witness this momentous occasion.]
MIKE DEMPSEY: “And her opponent, fighting out of the red corner, a Boxer holding a professional mixed martial arts record of eight wins, five losses. He stands 5’7”, and weighing in at 155 pounds. He is from San Juan, Puerto Rico, fighting out of the Lion’s Den FC Las Vegas, presenting the former Union Grand Prix Lightweight Title Challenger and the number two ranked Lightweight Contender in the World, Erick Costa!”
[Erick Costa, a man of unwavering resolve, exudes an air of tranquility that belies the storm brewing within him. His eyes gleam with a quiet fire as he casts a gaze across the octagon that awaits him. He absorbs the energy swirling around him, allowing it to fuel his every move. Each heartbeat reverberates within his chest like the war drums of an ancient tribe, reminding him of the path he has walked, the sacrifices he has made, and the dreams that have led him to this moment.]
ROUND ONE: Darrell Stevens, the referee in charge for this thrilling Lightweight clash, signals the beginning of the first round. Sadie Williams wastes no time, aggressively grabbing her opponent’s waist and initiating a takedown, aiming to dominate the fight on the ground early. With impressive technique, Williams executes a flawless takedown, putting Erick Costa in a vulnerable position. Williams finds herself in an open guard over Costa, who quickly tries to counter by closing his guard. He manages to do so successfully, tightening his defense. Undeterred, Williams launches her escape plan, struggling to free her leg and making a dynamic jump to half guard, gaining the upper hand once again. Sadie Williams targets Costa’s left arm, seeking an armbar submission, but Costa’s resilience shines through as he sits up and escapes the dangerous position, freeing his arm from imminent danger. The tables turn, with Costa now in an advantageous open guard over Williams. With an incredible show of determination, Williams attempts an armbar from the bottom, inflicting visible pain on Costa, whose eyes reflect the struggle. However, Costa manages to break the lock and swiftly transitions to side control, asserting his dominance. Refusing to be defeated, Sadie Williams launches another offensive, aiming to trap Costa in her guard. However, Costa maintains control, maintaining his side mount position. Undeterred, Williams tries to trap Costa in her guard once again and succeeds this time, transitioning to full guard, regaining control. Costa, in a closed guard over Williams, witnesses a remarkable reversal as she rolls on the ground, putting herself in a favorable full mount over Costa. Seizing the opportunity, Williams swiftly grasps Costa’s arm, executing a vicious armbar. The hold looks tight, causing Costa visible agony. But just as it seems Costa is on the verge of defeat, he miraculously breaks the lock and finds himself in a closed guard over Williams. In a surprising turn of events, Sadie Williams initiates an overhook on Costa’s arm, executing an interesting maneuver. However, Costa manages to pull his arm out of danger, exploiting Williams’ slight error. Seizing the moment, Costa attempts to escape from the closed guard, successfully freeing himself and transitioning to an open guard, taking a much-needed breather. Pouncing on Costa’s lull in action, Williams tries to close her guard around him, but her efforts fall short. Adapting her strategy, she switches to rubber guard. Williams tightly secures Costa’s head against her shin, wrapping her other leg around his head. The hold looks painful, causing Costa visible distress. But once again, Costa proves his resilience, breaking free from the debilitating gogoplata attempt. Costa finds himself back in an open guard over Williams. Determined to regain control, Williams makes another valiant attempt to close her guard, but once again, she fails to do so. However, she remains undeterred, reaching under and rolling for a kneebar submission. The hold looks excruciating, causing Costa to grimace in pain. With his limit reached, Costa taps, unable to endure the agony any longer.
Winner: Sadie Williams by Submission (Kneebar) at 2:27 Round 1
Statistics: Erick Costa
Punches 0/0 (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 128 s
Statistics: Sadie Williams
Punches 0/0 (0%)
Kicks 0/0 (0%)
Clinch strikes 0/0 (0%)
Takedowns 1/1 (100%)
GnP strikes 0/0 (0%)
Submissions 6/6 (100%)
Clinch Attempts 0/0 (0%)
Time on the ground 128 s
MIKE DEMPSEY: “Ladies and gentlemen, the following contest is scheduled for three rounds in the Union Grand Prix Middleweight Division! Introducing first, fighting out of the blue corner, a Kickboxer holding a perfect professional mixed martial arts record of eleven wins, no losses. He stands 6’2”, and weighing in at 185 pounds. He is from Hatfield, Pretoria, South Africa, presenting the former Everest MMA Welterweight Champion and the number four ranked Middleweight Contender in the World, Kian De Beer!”
[As the momentous introductions echo through the spirited arena, Kian De Beer stands tall in his corner, radiating an aura of strict composure. His relentless stare displays a stoic determination, a lasting strength that holds his attention captive. With an air of quiet confidence, he shuts his eyes for a fleeting moment, his breaths deep and purposeful, like whispers of calmness amidst the tumultuous storm of uncertainty. The crowd’s electrifying energy cascades over him, invigorating his spirit, mingling with the fire that ignites within his core.]
MIKE DEMPSEY: “And his opponent, fighting out of the red corner, a Boxer holding a professional mixed martial arts record of twenty-one wins, three losses. He stands 6’3”, and weighing in at 185 pounds. He is from Miami, Florida, fighting out of 9th World Miami, presenting “Violent” Eagle Mondalvi!”
[Eagle Mondalvi bounces up and down on the balls of his feet, his whole being pulsating with sheer adrenaline. A radiant smile spreads across his face, illuminating the arena as he fist bumps his trusted cornermen through the fence. In this pre-fight ritual, Eagle transforms nervous energy into a positive force of nature. His belief in himself and his preparation is evident as he radiates from their every pore, casting aside any doubts that might try to infiltrate his mind.]
ROUND ONE: Eagle Mondalvi and Kian De Beer faced off in the octagon, captivating the crowd with their intensity. As the bell rang, the arena erupted with passion, and the referee, Dusty Whittaker, signaled the start of the first round. Right from the beginning, both fighters showcased their agility and defensive prowess. De Beer attempted a shovel hook, but Mondalvi swiftly defended himself, evading any damage. Mondalvi, looking to neutralize De Beer’s striking, initiated a single leg takedown, forcing De Beer to the ground. With Mondalvi in open guard, De Beer attempted to close his guard around him, successfully securing his position. However, Mondalvi proved resilient, using his leg to maintain control. The momentum shifted as De Beer executed a remarkable reversal, mounting Mondalvi. Undeterred, Mondalvi exhibited his ground game by rolling to his side and trapping De Beer in his guard. In an impressive display of technique, De Beer reversed once again, securing full mount over Mondalvi. Sensing a lull in the action on the ground, the referee stood the fighters back up. Now on their feet, the fighters wasted no time engaging in a fierce striking exchange. De Beer’s crisp uppercut followed by a powerful jab staggered Mondalvi momentarily. Seizing the opportunity, De Beer spun around, connecting with a devastating spinning back fist to Mondalvi’s chin, leaving a small laceration. The intensity escalated as both fighters unleashed a flurry of punches, each hoping to land the fight-ending blow. De Beer launched a furious low kick, but Mondalvi checked it. Before Mondalvi could reset his feet, De Beer capitalized on the opening, landing a solid uppercut. Refusing to back down, Mondalvi retaliated with a barrage of punches, pushing the pace against De Beer. De Beer responded with a well-executed one-two combination, connecting cleanly. Faking another move, De Beer launched an uppercut, but Mondalvi effectively blocked it and swiftly pushed his opponent against the fence in a plum position. De Beer attempted to break free, but Mondalvi maintained his grip. Mondalvi launched a series of punishing punches to De Beer’s ribs, leaving visible damage and signs of pain. Not one to be outdone, De Beer retaliated with bone-breaking punches of his own to Mondalvi’s ribs, causing visible discomfort. Mondalvi postured up, unleashing another round of punches, but De Beer managed to defend against most of the offensive. The horn sounded, signaling the end of an action-packed round that had the crowd on their feet. The referee intervened, temporarily halting the bout, leaving everyone eagerly awaiting the next round.
Isaac Cohen’s Scorecard (Unofficial): 10-9 De Beer
ROUND TWO: The second round of this exhilarating bout continued to showcase the mutual respect between Eagle Mondalvi and Kian De Beer. The fighters circled the center of the cage, carefully analyzing each other’s movements. De Beer landed a solid shot to Mondalvi’s body, but Mondalvi quickly retaliated with a powerful right hand, causing De Beer to stumble backward. De Beer, searching for angles, threw a series of jabs, only to be met with Mondalvi’s counterpunches. Mondalvi unleashed a fantastic combination, displaying his striking skills. De Beer responded with a brilliant high kick, narrowly missing its target as Mondalvi deflected and sidestepped. In his relentless pursuit of an opening in Mondalvi’s defense, De Beer launched some tentative punches. However, Mondalvi remained composed and capitalized on a brief punching exchange. Then, in a moment that sent shockwaves through the arena, Mondalvi delivered an overhand right with devastating power, striking De Beer’s face. Remarkably, De Beer absorbed the blow and remained standing. Mondalvi sought to close the distance and initiated a grappling exchange. He secured a single collar tie, determined to work from the clinch. Although De Beer attempted to escape, Mondalvi persisted, successfully maintaining his position. Mondalvi unleashed a flurry of hooks and body shots, while De Beer tightly held onto his opponent, trying to control the tempo of the action. Despite De Beer’s efforts to break free, Mondalvi pushed forward, denying him any leeway. Mondalvi’s strength in the clinch was awe-inspiring as he unleashed bone-breaking punches to De Beer’s ribs. The pain was evident in De Beer’s eyes, and the fight was hanging in the balance. De Beer tried to evade the clinch, but Mondalvi remained relentless, refusing to let go. Then, with a sickening uppercut from the clinch, Mondalvi almost shattered De Beer’s jaw, sending him crashing to the canvas. As De Beer found himself on his back, Mondalvi launched a kick to his thigh, but De Beer effectively checked the strike. De Beer attempted to counter and regain his footing, but Mondalvi maintained control, denying him any chance of standing up. Determined not to continue the fight in that disadvantageous position, De Beer made a valiant effort to get back on his feet. The fight resumed with both fighters standing, and De Beer unleashed a solid combination. However, Mondalvi countered with a powerful uppercut to De Beer’s face, intensifying their wild exchange. De Beer managed to gain the upper hand in the flurry. Mondalvi, eager to dictate the fight, attempted to clinch once again, moving forward and grabbing hold of De Beer. The fighters engaged in a tight clinch against the fence, with Mondalvi aiming to take De Beer down. As De Beer stumbled backward, Mondalvi capitalized, landing a few punishing punches, one of which struck De Beer’s jaw with force. Refusing to back down, De Beer retaliated, pushing Mondalvi against the fence and launching a barrage of ferocious punches. Mondalvi skillfully blocked the strikes and created space between them. Mondalvi once again tried to take the fight to the ground with a single leg takedown, successfully bringing De Beer to the ground. De Beer closed his guard around Mondalvi, demonstrating his resilience. However, Mondalvi swiftly reversed the position, transitioning to full mount. As the round concluded, referee Dusty Whittaker separated the fighters, and they exchanged handshakes before heading back to their respective corners.
Isaac Cohen’s Scorecard (Unofficial): 10-9 Mondalvi (19-19 Push)
ROUND THREE: In a breathtaking display of resilience and power, the third round of this bout delivered non-stop action and intense exchanges. De Beer initiated the round with a sudden spin, landing a backfist flush on Eagle’s chin. Mondalvi shook it off and retaliated with a crushing hook that nearly lifted De Beer off the ground. Eagle unleashed a looping right hand while De Beer jumped back and threw jabs, leaving De Beer visibly staggered. Sensing his opportunity, Eagle rushed forward, delivering a flurry of jabs and crosses. However, De Beer displayed his incredible strength, launching a Superman punch with immense power that connected with Eagle’s face like a wrecking ball. The fighters engaged in a wild exchange, landing shots on each other but lacking the power to make a definitive impact. De Beer skillfully avoided a dangerous strike from Eagle and defended himself with probing punches. However, Eagle found an opening in De Beer’s defense, delivering a powerful uppercut that left De Beer wobbling. De Beer retaliated with a solid middle kick, narrowly missing Eagle’s body. The intensity heightened as both fighters engaged in a wild exchange of punches, with the potential for an abrupt ending if either landed a lucky shot. De Beer launched a kick, but Eagle skillfully dodged it and countered with a flush hook. Eagle unleashed a barrage of combinations on De Beer, showcasing his relentless offensive skills. However, De Beer managed to push Eagle away, creating some distance to recover his breath. Not to be deterred, Eagle launched a series of jabs followed by a powerful hook, with the last blow striking hard against De Beer’s cheek, causing him to stumble and fall to the mat. Referee Dusty Whittaker halted the fight to allow De Beer to stand up, and the action resumed with both fighters on their feet. De Beer attempted a right hand, but Eagle deflected it. Eagle responded with a brutal combination that left De Beer in a precarious state, his legs appearing wobbly. De Beer feinted and moved forward, aiming to land a hook, but Eagle skillfully evaded the strike. De Beer resorted to a low kick to maintain distance, but Eagle launched a couple of jabs followed by a powerful hook, connecting hard with De Beer’s cheek once again, causing him to stumble and fall to the mat. De Beer, showing incredible resilience, attempted to stand up once more, and the fight resumed with both fighters back on their feet. However, Eagle continued to demonstrate his boxing prowess, unleashing a one-two combo that landed squarely on De Beer’s face. The relentless action continued as Eagle evaded another strike and countered with a crushing hook that threatened to lift De Beer off the ground. De Beer valiantly threw jabs, but Eagle retaliated with a tremendous combo that put De Beer in a world of hurt. As the horn sounded, signaling the end of the round, referee Dusty Whittaker instructed the fighters to return to their corners. The exhilarating exchanges and relentless attacks left the audience on the edge of their seats, eagerly anticipating the outcome of this captivating bout.
Isaac Cohen’s Scorecard (Unofficial): 10-8 Mondalvi (29-27 Mondalvi)
JUDGES’ SCORECARDS
Eagle Mondalvi 9 10 10: 29
Kian De Beer 10 9 9: 28
Eagle Mondalvi 9 10 10: 29
Kian De Beer 10 9 9: 28
Eagle Mondalvi 9 10 10: 29
Kian De Beer 10 9 9: 28
Winner: Eagle Mondalvi by Unanimous Decision
Statistics: Eagle Mondalvi
Punches 53/69 (77%)
Kicks 1/2 (50%)
Clinch strikes 11/25 (44%)
Takedowns 2/2 (100%)
GnP strikes 0/0 (0%)
Submissions 0/0 (0%)
Clinch Attempts 1/1 (100%)
Time on the ground 133 s
Statistics: Kian De Beer
Punches 20/47 (43%)
Kicks 0/5 (0%)
Clinch strikes 3/6 (50%)
Takedowns 0/0 (0%)
GnP strikes 0/0 (0%)
Submissions 0/0 (0%)
Clinch Attempts 0/0 (0%)
Time on the ground 271 s
[The deafening sound of gunfire erupts throughout the arena, its echoes reverberating against the walls as the lights abruptly fade into darkness.]
♫
OKAY, I’M RELOADED!!!
YOU MOTHERFUCKERS, THINK YOU BIG TIME?
FUCKIN WITH SPYDA, YOU GON’ DIE, BIG TIME!
HERE COME THE PAIN!
♫
[As the lyrics of “Brooklyn’s Finest” by Jay-Z and The Notorious BIG boom through the loud speakers, the lights burst forth, illuminating the arena with a blinding radiance. All eyes are locked on the figure emerging from the depths of the backstage area, casting an ethereal glow on his every move. Derrius Webb, the prodigal son of Brooklyn, steps into the spotlight, bathing in the warm embrace of his hometown’s adoration. The collective roar of the crowd engulfs him, washing away any doubts and fueling the fire within.]
[With committed eyes fixed solely upon the imposing steel cage positioned at the center of the arena, Derrius showcases a look of unyielding courage etched onto his visage. Every muscle in his chiseled frame tenses. Despite the waves of jubilation crashing upon his senses, he remains steadfast.]
[Derrius marches towards destiny with his entourage of teammates, most notably his trusted coach Roscoe Robinson, trailing close behind. Their presence, a symbol of camaraderie and unwavering support, stands as a testament to the arduous journey that has led them to this moment.]
BODIE SULLIVAN: “Ladies and gentlemen, it’s to embark on the journey of our championship block of the card. First up, we have Derrius Webb making his way to the octagon. A man who is no stranger to championship fights, he’s a former three-time Everest MMA Welterweight Champion and has looked absolutely dominant in his budding tenure in Union GP. Tonight he faces a challenge unlike anything he’s ever experienced before, an imposing figure who has yet to be beaten. Derrius Webb has all of the intangibles to conquer the undefeated champion, but he’s going to have to be perfect in his approach.”
BYRON McCALL: “We have all watched Derrius Webb grow into this top contender role on the biggest stage in MMA. He made his professional debut in Everest MMA, being one of the original fighters to sign on the dotted line when the developmental promotion was first established. His skill set, matched with his massive frame, is not like anything we’ve seen before for a Middleweight. He’s got that touch of death power that can end a fight in the blink of an eye. One wrong move for the opposition can quickly spell disaster. Derrius Webb looks like he’s as ready as he’s ever been, and it doesn’t hurt to have twenty-thousand plus rallying behind you!”
[Reaching the cageside area, a brief pause ensues, allowing Roscoe to meticulously inspect Derrius’ gloves, ensuring every detail is perfect for the impending war. In this fleeting moment, unspoken words pass between them, a silent exchange of camaraderie and unwavering belief. A fist bump seals their bond, a final gesture of solidarity before the inevitable clash.]
[Turning his back to his teammates, Derrius confronts the cutman for inspection. An air of intensity envelopes the scene as the cutman meticulously inspects the challenger. With a nod of approval, Derrius meets the stringent standards of the competition.]
[Taking measured strides, Derrius ascends the steps and steps foot inside the octagon, the boundary that separates him from both glory and peril. Even in this defining moment, he remains fluid, throwing punches and kicks into the empty air, his movements a chorus of controlled power. Time ticks away relentlessly, each passing second amplifying the anticipation that hangs heavy in the atmosphere.]
♫
CAN’T YOU SEE
A SIGN FROM GOD, HE CAME TO ME
MAYBE SOMETHING TO BELIEVE
IS ALL OUR PEOPLE REALLY NEED
HAVE YOU LOST YOUR LOVE
LOOK IN THEIR EYES THEY’VE GIVEN UP
WATCH AS ALL OUR HOMES ARE BURNED
SALVATION A FAR CRY WHICH I WILL RETURN
♫
[As the stadium lights dim down, the sound of thunderous drums and electrifying guitar riffs of “Fleur de Lis” by The Raven Age reverberate through the arena, signaling the arrival of the fearless fighter. Suddenly, the spotlight shines on the entrance ramp, and a figure emerges from the smoke and haze. It’s Noah Vanderkaay, looking more confident and focused than ever before. The crowd erupts as the fighter strides down the ramp, exuding an aura of raw power and aggression. Dressed in his signature black and red BST Fightwear trunks, Vanderkaay looks like a beast ready to unleash his fury on his opponent. He walks with a purpose, his eyes fixed on the octagon as if he’s already in the zone.]
BODIE SULLIVAN: “Look out folks, it’s the big bad behemoth — the undefeated and undisputed 185 pound Champion, “The Mauler” Noah Vanderkaay! When this man steps in the cage, you are guaranteed fireworks. His high volume striking and relentless pursuit of pushing the pace is a fight fan’s dream. Vanderkaay always seems like he has a bottomless gas tank and goes harder the longer the fight goes on.”
BYRON McCALL: “He’s definitely not afraid to get in a firefight with anyone, and he’s fully prepared to test the limits of his challenger tonight. We really haven’t seen Noah Vanderkaay pressed into dire situations throughout his run in Union GP. He went the distance in five rounds with Lovelie Saint-Cyr to capture the title, but then turned around in the immediate rematch and finished him inside two rounds. He’s the only undefeated champion in Union GP history, and it doesn’t appear that his “O” is gonna go anytime soon. The guy is all killer, no filler, Bodie.”
[Noah Vanderkaay makes it to the cageside area and begins to dress down to his fight gear. He hands his warmups off to one of his coaches and gives one final embrace before turning to the official. Vanderkaay stood tall and focused as he waited for the officials to inspect him before his big title fight. He took deep breaths and shook out his muscles, preparing himself mentally for the rigorous process.]
[The officials approached him and began the inspection process. Noah patiently stood still as they checked his nails, hair, and body for any signs of prohibited substances. After the thorough examination, the officials gave him a nod of approval, and Noah felt a surge of adrenaline and confidence. He raced up the steps and exploded with a war cry and the crowd responded in kind. Vanderkaay took to his corner and awaited the official introductions.]
MIKE DEMPSEY: “Ladies and gentlemen, it’s time for the Co-Main Event of the evening! Sanctioned by the New York State Athletic Commission, our three judges scoring this contest at cageside are Brandon Harrison, Hunter Evans, and Sarah Martin, and when the action begins, our referee in charge in the octagon is Jack Gibbs. AND NOW, this is the moment you’ve all been waiting for! Live from the sold out Barclays Center in Brooklyn, New York, streaming exclusively on the Battleground Network…”
IT’S TIME!
MIKE DEMPSEY: “The following contest is scheduled for five rounds and it is for the Union Grand Prix Middleweight Championship! Introducing first, fighting out of the blue corner, a Kickboxer holding a professional mixed martial arts record of fifteen 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 one ranked Middleweight Contender in the World, Derrius “Spyda” Webb!”
[The crowd is in absolute pandemonium. Derrius tries to remain calm and focused, but the roaring of the crowd overflows within him, and he pounds his chest with both clenched fists before letting out a ferocious battle cry. The very foundation of the arena is shaking to its core, the energy is flowing in unison for their hometown boy.]
MIKE DEMPSEY: “And his opponent, fighting out of the red corner, a Boxer holding a perfect professional mixed martial arts record of twelve wins, no losses. He stands 6’2”, and weighing in at 185 pounds. He is from Minneapolis, Minnesota, fighting out of Twin Cities MMA — presenting THE REIGNING, DEFENDING, UNDEFEATED, UNDISPUTED Union Grand Prix Middleweight Champion of the World, “The Mauler” Noah Vanderkaay!”
[And just like that, the crowd flips from roaring cheers for the challenger to raucous boos for the defending champion. It’s quite clear he is in very hostile territory, but it makes no difference to Noah Vanderkaay. He remains stoic in his expression, never even so much as blinking as he stations in his corner, looking fully prepared for the fight ahead.]
BODIE SULLIVAN: “The moment of truth is upon us! The crowd is on the edge of their seats as Noah Vanderkaay and Derrius Webb are ready to step into the fire for a possible twenty-five minutes of championship action. It’s all on the line, history is up for grabs folks!”
[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 Jack Gibbs gives one final pep talk.]
JACK GIBBS:“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, Jack Gibbs checks off with each fighter one last time, ensuring they are both ready for the challenge that lies ahead.]
[The atmosphere inside the Barclays Center was in pandemonium as the referee, Jack Gibbs, stepped into the center of the octagon. Noah Vanderkaay and Derrius Webb, stood on opposite sides, their eyes locked in a determined gaze. With a nod of acknowledgement, they met at the center and touched gloves, a mutual show of respect before the impending battle. Vanderkaay, his focus sharp as a tack, began his reconnaissance, studying Webb’s every move, searching for the slightest chink in his opponent’s armor. But Webb was quick to respond, launching a flurry of counter punches that narrowly missed their mark, forcing Vanderkaay to swiftly dodge the traffic. A surge of adrenaline coursed through the arena as Webb’s shots now found their target, jarring Vanderkaay with their power. Vanderkaay’s legs wobbled momentarily as he absorbed the impact, but he refused to give in to the pain.]
[In an exchange that resembled a wild storm, both fighters threw caution to the wind, trading blows with all their might. Though their punches landed, the absence of true force behind them was evident. It was during this chaotic exchange that Webb, ever the opportunist, chipped away at Vanderkaay’s thigh with a low kick, causing his leg to buckle in agony. Vanderkaay’s face contorted with pain as he fought to maintain his balance, his apparently injured leg now a burden early in this fight. Sensing this vulnerability, Webb seized the opportunity, launching another low kick in an attempt to keep Vanderkaay at bay. Although the strike missed its mark, Vanderkaay favoring his injured leg was a clear indication of his discomfort. But Vanderkaay, driven by sheer determination, refused to succumb to his injury. In a surprising turn of events, he mustered the strength to counter Webb’s carelessness, launching a series of jabs followed by a thunderous hook. The last punch connected with Webb’s cheek, the impact echoing throughout the arena as Webb stumbled and collapsed to the canvas.]
BODIE SULLIVAN: “BOOM! Noah Vanderkaay turns up the heat and drops Derrius Webb! At first I thought that leg kick from Webb might have caused some damage. He was favoring it and switching stances to avoid it being targeted.”
BYRON McCALL: “Sometimes those leg kicks can deaden the nerves and basically render your leg useless, but right now, he’s still generating plenty of power. He’s got Webb in survival mode in the opening minutes of the fight!”
[Vanderkaay, standing tall above his fallen adversary, watched intently as Webb struggled to rise. With sheer willpower, Webb managed to regain his footing, signaling a continuation of the battle. Taking a moment to reassess his approach, Vanderkaay cautiously launched a barrage of punches, aiming to capitalize on his opponent’s vulnerability. Webb, however, showcased his resilience, weathering the storm and absorbing Vanderkaay’s blows. With a sudden whirlwind of motion, Webb spun around, his backfist connecting flush with Vanderkaay’s chin. The crowd erupted in awe at the precision of the strike, marveling at the display of skill.]
[Webb pressed on, unleashing a relentless assault of leg kicks that landed with authority. Vanderkaay, his defensive instincts dialed in, blocked a head kick that threatened to end the fight in an instant. In a desperate bid to turn the tide, Vanderkaay seized the opportunity when Webb’s technique faltered. He retaliated with a brutal combination, each punch finding its mark, causing Webb’s legs to waver under the onslaught. A small cut appeared on Webb’s chin, evidence of the punishment he was enduring. But Webb, refusing to yield, chased after Vanderkaay, launching strikes with precision. Vanderkaay, displaying remarkable agility, evaded the blows, countering with his own punches. The intensity of the exchange was powerful, sending waves of excitement through the crowd.]
BODIE SULLIVAN: “Here we go, folks! Fistic fireworks in the making! It’s a war of attrition as both fighters dig deep in this heated exchange!”
BYRON McCALL: “This is high level stuff right here, Bodie. Both men have already taken a toll on their bodies but they are willing themselves through the pain in the name of honor, respect, and ultimately victory!”
[In an unexpected turn, Vanderkaay attempted to grapple with Webb, showcasing his skills in close-quarters. The two fighters engaged in a clinch, their bodies intertwined in a fierce struggle for dominance. Webb, determined to break free, attempted to shrug his way out of Vanderkaay’s grasp, but The Mauler fought tooth and nail to maintain his position, pummeling through Webb’s resistance. Within the confines of the clinch, Webb targeted Vanderkaay’s unguarded ribs with bone-breaking punches. The pain etched on Vanderkaay’s face was visible to all. With a burst of energy, Webb postured up, raining down another series of devastating punches. Each blow landed with thunderous force, leaving Vanderkaay desperate to escape. However, Webb refused to release his grip, pushing Vanderkaay forward and denying him any respite.]
[Exhibiting sheer determination, Vanderkaay attempted to evade Webb’s relentless assault. Ducking under Webb’s embrace, he desperately sought an escape route, but Webb pushed Vanderkaay forward, refusing to relinquish control. Webb launched another onslaught of bone-breaking punches to Vanderkaay’s ribs, the agony evident in Vanderkaay’s eyes. Once again, Vanderkaay attempted to break free, but Webb’s unyielding pressure allowed him to retain his dominant position. As the fighters battled in the clinch, a combination of hooks and body shots from Webb found their mark, causing Vanderkaay to stumble backward. Unrelenting, Webb pursued, continuing his onslaught.]
BODIE SULLIVAN: “Derrius Webb is firing on all cylinders right now! The clinch backfired on Noah Vanderkaay and he is clearly hurting from those big strikes to the body.”
BYRON McCALL: “This is a great strategy from Webb. Targeting the legs and working the body, he’s picking his shots and wearing down Vanderkaay’s foundational and core strength to diminish his ability to throw those high-octane hands.”
[In a last-ditch effort to escape the clinch, Vanderkaay ducked under Webb’s grasp, desperately seeking distance. Sensing a lack of activity, the referee, Jack Gibbs, made the decision to separate the fighters, allowing the fight to continue in a more open environment. Webb, ever the tactician, searched for angles and range as he threw a few jabs, only to be met by Vanderkaay’s persistent punches. Vanderkaay’s crosses landed with deadly accuracy, testing the resilience of Webb’s chin. The exchange showcased the tenacity and skill of both fighters. Undeterred by the punishment he had received, Webb launched another series of tentative punches, each strike thrown with malicious intent. Vanderkaay responded with a couple of jabs of his own. The octagon filled with the sound of leather meeting flesh as the fighters exchanged blows in a display of sheer courageousness.]
[With precision and power, Webb unleashed another solid leg kick, finding its mark on Vanderkaay’s leg. The impact was felt throughout the arena, causing Vanderkaay to crumble under his own weight. Gripping his knee in agony, Vanderkaay knew he was in trouble, and Webb wasted no time in capitalizing on his weakened state. As Vanderkaay lay defenseless on the mat, absorbing punishment, the referee, Jack Gibbs, recognized that he was not intelligently defending himself. With a wave of his hand, Gibbs stepped in, signaling the end of the fight. Vanderkaay’s hyperextended leg leaving a gruesome visual reminder of how brutal this sport can be.]
BODIE SULLIVAN: “And just like that, it is all over! Derrius Webb has slayed the beast to become the new Middleweight Champion of the World!”
BYRON McCALL: “That was an incredible performance from Derrius Webb! He came into this fight with a clear blueprint, and he executed it flawlessly. The willingness to stand in the fire with The Mauler and weather the storm to come out on top is just what Derrius Webb does in these big moments. Take a bow, Spyda, you have done the impossible in front of your hometown crowd!”
[In an electrifying moment that buzzes through the atmosphere, Derrius Webb triumphantly scales the fence and wraps his arms around his coaches with elated bliss. The arena vibrates with a thunderous chorus of cheers, shaking the very foundations of the building.]
[As the echoes of celebration reverberate through the air, the ringside physicians swiftly enter the octagon. With utmost care and concern etched onto their faces, they converge around the fallen Noah Vanderkaay. Every eye in the audience watches with bated breath, subdued by a wave of anxiety.]
[The team’s experienced hands diligently examine Noah. A glimmer of relief dances across their brows as they conclude their assessment, confirming that he is now on the path to recovery. Despite the toll of the intense battle, Noah summons his indomitable spirit to propel him to his feet. However, weakened by the fierce battle, he requires assistance to find his way back to the center of the octagon, where the announcement of the victor awaits.]
MIKE DEMPSEY: “Ladies and gentlemen, referee Jack Gibbs has called for a stop in this fight at four minutes forty-four seconds in the very first round, declaring your winner by technical knockout, AAAAAND NEEEEEW Union Grand Prix Middleweight Champion of the World, Derrius “Spyda” Webb!”
[The crowd rises to its feet, caught in a frenzied uproar of adulation and exhilaration. Derrius Webb basks in the euphoria, his chest swelling with pride. The weight of victory settles upon him as the belt is ceremoniously fastened around his waist, its gleaming gold flickering in harmony with the fiery passion that courses through his veins.]
[In a moment that transcends the heat of the fight, the two men, weary but undeniably noble, meet at the center of the octagon. Their hands, once clenched in combat, now extend towards one another in a gesture that symbolizes profound respect and mutual admiration. It is a profound display to the spirit of the sport, a demonstration to the immeasurable depth of character etched into these fighters’ minds. The stream then flickers to a sleek spreadsheet graphic, displaying an intricate tapestry of statistics and data that unfolded before our very eyes, while the commentators recap.]
Winner: Derrius Webb by TKO (Low Kick) at 4:44 Round 1
Statistics: Noah Vanderkaay
Punches 17/25 (68%)
Kicks 0/0 (0%)
Clinch strikes 0/0 (0%)
Takedowns 0/0 (0%)
GnP strikes 0/0 (0%)
Submissions 0/0 (0%)
Clinch Attempts 1/1 (100%)
Time on the ground 0 s
Statistics: Derrius Webb
Punches 15/27 (56%)
Kicks 9/9 (100%)
Clinch strikes 19/26 (73%)
Takedowns 0/0 (0%)
GnP strikes 0/0 (0%)
Submissions 0/0 (0%)
Clinch Attempts 0/0 (0%)
Time on the ground 7 s
[Inside the octagon, the crowd roars with cheers as Derrius Webb, battered but triumphant, stands tall in the center of the cage. The arena lights shine down on everyone standing inside the steel structure, casting dramatic shadows across the canvas. Bodie Sullivan steps forward, microphone in hand, ready to capture the emotions of the moment.]
BODIE SULLIVAN:“Ladies and gentlemen, I am here with the winner AND NEW Union Grand Prix Middleweight Champion, Derrius Webb! Derrius, you just shocked the world and put down the unbeaten Noah Vanderkaay inside the first round, a feat that no one had seen coming. Tell us, what does this moment mean to you, especially given the fact that we’re here in your hometown?”
[The tension fills the air as Derrius takes a moment to gather his thoughts, his chest rising and falling with the intensity of the fight still coursing through his veins.]
DERRIUS WEBB: “Brooklyn…”
[The sound of his voice is a mix of triumph and humble gratitude as he gazes across the crowd, turning a complete circle to take in the overwhelming support.]
DERRIUS WEBB: “We fuckin’ did it, bo.”
[Raising the championship belt high above his head, Derrius ignites a wave of thunderous cheers from the passionate hometown crowd, their deafening roar resonating through the arena.]
DERRIUS WEBB: “I spent my early childhood growing up here and Brooklyn will always have a special place in my heart. Right here. After my last fight I said that I was going to prove that I’m that dude and that I’m coming for the championship. — Well… looky here.”
[A wide grin spreads across Derrius’ face as he gazes at the glistening gold in his hands, unable to contain his joy and accomplishment. With reverence, he brings the belt to his lips and plants a kiss on its polished surface.]
DERRIUS WEBB: “When I heard that I was getting a title shot and it was going to be right here in Brooklyn, I just knew I had to show out and make the dream a reality. I won’t ever forget where I’m from. Having this opportunity here means a lot to me.”
[The intensity in his voice is matched only by the fire in his eyes, a burning determination that refuses to waver.]
DERRIUS WEBB: “I just hope I can make y’all proud, bo.”
[Derrius turns, his teammates rallying behind him with elation as they embrace him with a group hug, a display of unity and shared victory for the Hit Squad team as a whole. With an infectious grin still plastered across his face, Derrius pivots back to face the camera, his eyes fixed on the glistening championship belt as he slaps the main plate of the belt.]
DERRIUS WEBB: “Now it’s time to defend this. Who up?”
[Bodie Sullivan, captivated by the atmosphere and the electric energy that pulsates through the arena, can’t help but join in the exhilaration.]
BODIE SULLIVAN: “There you have it, folks. Make some noise for your new Middleweight Champion, Derrius Webb!”
[The crowd erupts in thunderous applause as Spyda raises his callused fists in appreciation. The atmosphere inside the octagon is electric, buzzing with the raw energy of a crowning of a new champion. The interview comes to a close, but the memories of this epic battle will linger in the hearts of fight fans for years to come.]
♫
AUNQUE DIGAN QUE SOY
UN BANDOLERO DONDE VOY
LE DOY GRACIAS A DIOS
POR HOY ESTAR DONDE ESTOY
Y VOY A SEGUIR CON MI TUMBAO
Y CON MIS OJOS COLORAOS
CON MIS GATOS ACTIVAO
USTEDES TODO ME LO HAN DAO
♫
[As the crowd roars in anticipation, the arena lights dim, and a rhythmic beat begins to pulsate through the speakers. The sound of trumpets and Latin percussion fills the air, signaling the arrival of Magdalena Moruga, ready to unleash havoc inside the octagon. The giant screens around the arena flicker to life, displaying the Mexican flag billowing proudly against a backdrop of fireworks and a vibrant display of colors. The crowd erupts into cheers as they catch a glimpse of the iconic symbol representing the warrior spirit of Mexico.]
[With each step, the arena floor illuminates beneath Magdalena’s feet, guiding her path towards the octagon. She emerges from the shadows, draped in a majestic cloak made entirely of the Mexican flag, the green, white, and red proudly displaying her heritage. Magdalena’s face radiates determination and focus as she walks with purpose, her eyes locked onto the cage ahead. The speakers continue to pump out the energetic beats of “Bandoleros” by Don Omar, the perfect soundtrack to ignite the crowd’s passion.]
BODIE SULLIVAN: “Anybody. Anytime. Anywhere. That’s what you get when talking about Magdalena Moruga. Even though her back’s against the wall in this short notice championship fight, Moruga has always been a competitor who’s willing to take on the toughest challenges head on.”
BYRON McCALL: “That kind of mentality can take you far in this sport. When you want to stay active and take on anybody they put in front of you and you find consistent success, people take notice. Moruga has soared up the rankings in a short amount of time due to those factors, and has positioned herself for this opportunity. Of course it’s not the most ideal way to get here, but Magdalena Moruga is a fighter who is willing to bet on herself and take these kinds of risks.”
[As Moruga approaches the cageside area, a gust of wind sweeps through the arena, creating a whirlwind of confetti in the colors of the Mexican flag, engulfing the atmosphere in a burst of national pride. The crowd rises to their feet, their cheers growing louder, echoing throughout the entire venue. With her Mexican flag-draped shoulders, Magdalena steps onto the platform leading to the cage. She pauses for a moment, raising her arms high, displaying the flag for all to see. The crowd’s cheers reach a crescendo, as the image of a fighter deeply connected to her roots becomes etched into the minds of every spectator.]
[Finally, Magdalena begins to disrobe down to her BST Fightwear gear, and embraces each one of her coaches before turning to the cutman for her inspection. After a detailed examination, she is cleared for competition. Magdalena takes a deep breath, her focus sharpening. She recites a prayer then races up the steel steps, entering the octagon with fierce passion and purpose. Moruga shuffles to her corner, and bounces around to stay loose and in the moment as she awaits for her challenger ahead.]
[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.]
BODIE SULLIVAN: “And now ladies and gentlemen, with the final walkout of the night, the reigning and defending Bantamweight Champion Redd Lennox seeks another successful title defense in Brooklyn, New York. The Feisty Cheetoh has become the next big thing, and if we’re being honest, she’s only scratched the surface. This makes her fifth trip to the Union octagon this year, making her one of the most active fighters of 2023. I know it’s still early to think about, B, but if there ever was a fighter who could reach and potentially surpass Delaney Donovan’s seven consecutive title defense record, Redd Lennox is that fighter.”
BYRON McCALL: “I’ll agree with it being early, but I see where you get that assessment. Redd Lennox has shown to be very exceptional in all phases of the fight game. She can handle adversity very well and never allows herself to get into vulnerable positions. But I want to see her struggle and see her weather the storm and bounce back. That’s what long-standing champions do! Even though Redd and Mags are fighting on roughly 24 hours notice, they’ve shared the octagon before and know each other’s tendencies. This is going to be a wild ride, Bodie! I can’t wait to watch it unfold!”
[Redd finally makes her way to the cageside area and looks out at the crowd before yelling out “Let’s Go BK Let’s Go!!” The crowd pops as she begins taking off her BST Fightwear track suit and talking to her coaches. After Reed finishes her final pep talk with her coaches, she faces the cutman for inspection. After a rigorous examination, she’s all cleared for combat. The champion ascends the stairs and steps inside the cage slowly before walking around the cage. She gets to her corner and bounces up and down while looking across the cage at Magdelena.]
MIKE DEMPSEY: “Ladies and gentlemen, it’s time for the Main Event of the evening! Sanctioned by the New York State Athletic Commission, our three judges scoring this contest at cageside are Archie Wellington, Cameron Hughes, and Andrew Trevino, and when the action begins, our referee in charge in the octagon is Jordan Ripley. AND NOW, this is the moment you’ve all been waiting for! Live from the sold out Barclays Center in Brooklyn, New York, streaming live exclusively on the Battleground Network…”
IT’S TIME!
MIKE DEMPSEY: “The following contest is scheduled for five rounds and it is for the Union Grand Prix Bantamweight Championship! Introducing first, fighting out of the blue corner, a Muay Thai Kickboxer holding a professional mixed martial arts record of fourteen wins, two losses. She stands 5’5”, and weighing in at 135 pounds. She is from Tijuana, Baja California, Mexico — presenting the number two ranked Bantamweight Contender in the World, “Cold Heart” Magdalena Moruga!”
[Magdalena Moruga exudes a commanding presence as she takes her place in the corner, her clenched fist defiantly raised high in the air. The deafening roar of the crowd reverberates through the arena, a chorus of cheers that carries the weight of their unwavering respect and unbridled support for this extraordinary fighter. The arena trembles with the shared energy of the crowd, their fervor igniting the air like a wildfire.]
[With a quick glance around the arena, Moruga absorbs the sheer magnitude of the moment. The sea of faces before her represents not only her ardent supporters but also those who doubt her, who believe her to be an underdog. Yet, these doubts only fuel the fire that rages within her, propelling her towards greatness.]
MIKE DEMPSEY: “And her opponent, fighting out of the red corner, a Boxer holding a professional mixed martial arts record of fourteen wins, one loss. She stands 5’4”, and weighing in at 135 pounds. She is from Orlando, Florida, fighting out of 9th World Miami — presenting THE REIGNING, DEFENDING, UNDISPUTED Union Grand Prix Bantamweight Champion of the World, Redd “The Feisty Cheetoh” Lennox!”
[Redd Lennox, a fierce and determined champion, finds herself in a storm of anticipation as she paces back and forth in her corner. The crowd, an unruly beast of passionate spectators, exudes a clash of conflicting reactions. They remember her as the villain in her initial match up against CC Flynn. Yet, begrudgingly, they convey a measure of respect, acknowledging her audacious decision to embrace a last-minute substitute opponent, one who had recently posed a difficult challenge.]
[She fervently whispers her incantation, “I am the greatest,” the words echoing through her mind, each repetition serving to stoke the fire of her determination. Her presence is an enigma, as she embraces the cheers and jeers with equal attention, knowing that she has the power to captivate an audience, to bend their emotions to her will. It is an exhilarating display, a masterclass in captivating the hearts and minds of all who witness her talent both as a fighter and a performer.]
BODIE SULLIVAN: “The fighters are locked in and ready to go! The wait is over and the stage is set for a possible twenty-five minutes of championship action!”
[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 Jordan Ripley gives one final pep talk.]
JORDAN RIPLEY:“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, Jordan Ripley checks off with each fighter one last time, ensuring they are both ready for the challenge that lies ahead.]
[The crowd is on the edge of their seats, roaring as loud as they can with every fiber of their being. As the bell rings, the first round begins for this Main Event Championship fight. Moruga attacks with unrestrained vigor, landing a powerful blow to Lennox’s jaw. Lennox’s head snaps back, defying the laws of physics for a moment.]
[Moruga skillfully evades Lennox’s counter and tests her with quick punches. Lennox remains calm and launches a measured assault, landing punches of her own. In a cunning move, Moruga aims a middle kick, striking Lennox’s ribs. The fight continues with intense exchanges and the crowd’s excitement grows.]
[Moruga’s inside leg kick misses its mark, and Lennox retaliates with an uppercut that narrowly misses. Moruga resorts to another leg kick, hitting Lennox’s ankle. The two fighters engage in a wild exchange, each punch landing with vicious intent. Lennox lands a powerful right hand, momentarily shaking Moruga. The exchange continues, but the strikes lack venom. Moruga pushes forward and attempts a high kick, taking a calculated risk. The atmosphere is tense as the kick approaches and connects cleanly. Lennox is wobbled but still stands.]
BODIE SULLIVAN: “Moruga came out of the gate with explosive power, catching Lennox off guard with some big bombs! ”
BYRON McCALL: “Lennox’s resilience is commendable, Bodie. She’s weathering the storm and continuing to push forward. But look at Moruga! She’s not letting up! She’s going for broke with a brutal head kick!”
[A lightning-fast calf kick follows, showcasing Moruga’s impeccable technique. Lennox blocks a middle kick and steps away to strategize. They resume exchanging punches, with Lennox’s blows resonating like thunder. Moruga tries to withstand the storm but with less ferocity. Lennox targets Moruga’s ribs with hooks, delivering bone-crushing blows. Lennox relentlessly pursues with a rapid succession of punches, taking Moruga from one side of the cage to the other! Moruga regroups, launching tentative punches but without significant impact.]
[Moruga throws a stiff jab, grazing Lennox’s cheek. The fighters engage again, balancing calculated aggression. Moruga shifts angles and throws jabs, while Lennox responds with accurate punches. Moruga’s low kick is checked by Lennox’s expert defense. Lennox takes advantage of Moruga’s vulnerability and counters with determination. She throws a one-two combo and feints a move, unleashing a colossal right hand. The impact is massive, astonishing the crowd. Moruga retaliates with her own combination, tagging Lennox with some solid shots.]
BODIE SULLIVAN: “The determination and heart from both fighters are on full display, B. Lennox may be landing the heavier shots, but Moruga is showing incredible resilience and throwing them right back. She’s still in this fight, and you can bet she’s going to keep pushing forward.”
BYRON McCALL: “No doubt about it, Bodie. Magdalena isn’t going down without a fight. It looks like Redd has found some success but both women are swinging!”
[Undeterred, Moruga throws another stiff jab, grazing Lennox’s cheek. Lennox remains resolute as the round ends. Both fighters are breathless, bearing the marks of battle. The crowd roars with appreciation as the referee instructs them to return to their corners.]
[As the second round begins, the fighters lock eyes in the center of the cage. Moruga wastes no time in launching a furious low kick, her leg propelled like a thunderbolt. The impact reverberates through the air as Lennox absorbs the hard blow to her left leg, the pain shooting through her body. A punch from Moruga whizzes past its target and Lennox sees her opportunity to counter. With precision, she delivers a crisp uppercut, followed by a hard jab, her fists propelled with speed and accuracy, but Moruga deflects the blows with swiftness.]
[Moruga swings, her fists thrown by raw power, but her aim is off, missing her target. Lennox, seizing the opening, attempts to take the fight to the ground with a single leg takedown. The force of her momentum proves too much for Moruga to withstand, and she topples to the ground. Moruga attempts to close her guard, seeking to regain control, but her efforts are fruitless. Lennox’s positioning is impeccable, and she launches a barrage of punches, each strike resonating with bone-jarring impact. From the vantage point of full mount, Lennox’s fists rain down on Moruga’s abdomen, the sound of the impact echoing through the arena.]
[Not one to be subdued, Moruga seeks to escape the full mount, but Lennox refuses to relinquish her dominant position, fighting tooth and nail to maintain. Lennox spots a crack in Moruga’s guard and launches a big elbow. The impact is thunderous, rocking Moruga’s head against the unforgiving mat. The referee, Jordan Ripley, senses the gravity of the situation, his gaze fixed on the fighters, contemplating the possibility of calling off the fight. Refusing to succumb to defeat, Moruga attempts to roll to her side to trap Lennox in her guard. With a burst of energy, she manages to free her hip and transition to full guard, a temporary respite from the onslaught.]
BODIE SULLIVAN: “Lennox is working in some great counter strikes, which set up a perfect takedown. I don’t think anyone expected to see any wrestling going on in this match up.”
BYRON McCALL: “It’s the element of surprise! And it appears she’s been working on her ground game, too. Redd is dropping bombs on Moruga!”
[After this, there’s a lull in the action. Sensing a lack of activity, Jordan Ripley steps in and directs the fighters to stand up. Both women rise to their feet and resume the fight standing. Moruga steps forward and fires a high kick, her leg a blur of motion as it slices through the air, but Lennox blocks the kick with decisive precision. Moruga follows up with a combo, seeking to regain control, but Lennox ducks under, evading the strikes with the grace of a seasoned veteran. Seizing the moment, Lennox counters with a devastating straight, the impact finding its mark with pinpoint accuracy. Moruga swings again, desperate to turn the tide, but each blow meets with Lennox’s defense.]
[Moruga, refusing to back down, searches for angles as she throws a series of jabs. Lennox tries to weave through Moruga’s assault, but her punches are finding their mark in bunches. Moruga unleashes a powerful Superman punch, her body propelling forward with a surge of energy, but Lennox expertly dodges it and counters with a one-two combo, her fists crashing against Moruga’s face like a tidal wave. The exchange continues, the two fighters engaging in a chaotic storm of fists and footwork. Lennox’s punches connect, each blow propelled by a mix of technique and sheer determination. Moruga pushes forward, searching for an opening.]
[She launches a lightning-fast low kick that Lennox checks. Looking to counter, Lennox channels her energy into a superb haymaker that lands on Moruga’s face like a cannonball. The impact is staggering, the force behind the blow evident in Moruga’s wincing expression. A small laceration appears on Moruga’s mouth. Moruga spins around, seeking to catch Lennox off guard but Lennox ducks under the attack then steps back to cool down the fight. With a looping right hand, Lennox seizes another opening in Moruga’s defense. She capitalizes on the opportunity, launching a flurry of jabs and crosses.]
BODIE SULLIVAN: “Redd Lennox is firing on all cylinders right now and has got Magdalena Moruga on skates!”
BYRON McCALL: “Redd is not someone you want to give any down time in the fight. She’s so quick to assess the situation and make adjustments on the fly.”
[Lennox’s punches find their mark, but Moruga launches her own counterpunches, her uppercut testing the resilience of Lennox’s chin. The back-and-forth battle rages on, both fighters displaying unwavering courage and skill. Moruga unleashes a powerful Superman punch, but Lennox reads it well and narrowly dodges the punch that sails over her head. Lennox launches a big uppercut, her fist propelled by a surge of energy. The punch finds its mark, and Moruga wobbles on unsteady legs, her resilience tested to its limits. The horn sounds, signaling the end of the round, and Jordan Ripley directs the fighters to their corners.]
[Amidst the high-stakes battle, the fighters’ mutual respect is clear as they head into the third round. They understand the gravity of the situation, knowing one mistake could lead to devastating consequences. Moruga initiates with a confident low kick, but Lennox anticipates it and checks effectively. Unfazed, Moruga persists, shadowing Lennox’s movements. Not surprisingly, Lennox retaliates with a precise and powerful counter punch, serving as a warning to Moruga.]
[Relentlessly, Lennox closely tracks Moruga’s every move. Moruga tries to deceive Lennox with a feint, but Lennox remains steadfast, easily blocking Moruga’s follow up uppercut. Lennox continues her aggressive pursuit, launching a relentless barrage of punches. Moruga finds herself on the receiving end, defending with all her might. The impact of each blow impresses the crowd.]
[Undeterred, Moruga throws another leg kick, but Lennox expertly checks it, frustrating Moruga. Sensing an opportunity, Lennox retaliates with a brutal combination, striking with deadly accuracy. Moruga’s stability waivers under the onslaught. With fluid motion, Lennox spins and lands a powerful spinning back fist on Moruga’s chin, demonstrating her accuracy and power. Lennox relentlessly presses on, raining down punches that leave Moruga in a precarious position.]
BODIE SULLIVAN: “Lennox has got Moruga retreating. She looks like a predator out in the wild, stalking her prey at every corner.”
BYRON McCALL: “Moruga needs to set up those kicks, don’t force it and mail it in. Lennox has it figured out. It’s time to switch things up.”
[Refusing to surrender, Moruga fires her own punches, but Lennox proves superior, landing precise and authoritative blows. The fighters trade back and forth, showcasing a primal behavior. Lennox gains the upper hand, testing Moruga’s resilience. Taking a breath, Lennox pauses, observing Moruga. The fighters resume the intense exchange, their fists moving with lightning speed. Lennox’s accurate punches hit their mark, while Moruga valiantly defends against them.]
[Moruga throws a leg kick, aiming to regain momentum, but Lennox effortlessly checks it. Seizing the opportunity to counter, Lennox lands a devastating punch, staggering Moruga. Unfazed, Moruga launches another low kick, showcasing her well-honed technique. Once again, Lennox expertly blocks the strike, maintaining her impenetrable defense. Moruga attempts to close the distance for grappling, but Lennox pushes her away, preferring striking where she excels.]
BODIE SULLIVAN: “Redd Lennox is steamrolling Magdalena Moruga with those nasty counters.”
BYRON McCALL: “Moruga is in autopilot mode right now. She can’t keep taking this kind of punishment for two more rounds and expect to come out victorious.”
[Moruga looks for angles in her strikes, seeking an opening, but Lennox counters with precise combinations. Moruga struggles to withstand Lennox’s assault. In a final effort, Moruga tries a one-two combination, hoping to catch Lennox off guard. However, Lennox skillfully blocks, minimizing their impact. Capitalizing on the opportunity, Lennox delivers a powerful haymaker to Moruga’s face, rendering her unconscious. The fight concludes, and Redd Lennox emerges as the victor in spectacular fashion.]
BODIE SULLIVAN: “And this one is all over! Redd Lennox does it again! What a knockout finish for the Champ!”
BYRON McCALL: “That was perfect technique and perfect timing, Bodie. To be able to parry the combination and counter with that massive left hand is one for the highlight reel!”
[In the heat of the moment, Redd Lennox basks in the sweet victory by hopping the fence and embracing her coaches. The crowd’s adoration vibrates through the air, transforming the arena into an echo chamber of thunderous applause. On the other side of the octagon, the ringside physicians spring into action, darting their way into the octagon, their primary objective being the welfare of the defeated Magdalena Moruga.]
[With expert precision, the team conducts a rapid yet thorough examination of Moruga’s condition, their concern etched on their brows. After a tense moment, the warrior spirit within Moruga surges forth, enabling her to regain her balance and stand once again on her own two feet. Relieved sighs echo through the cage as the physicians exit the cage, granting both warriors a momentary break in action. As the dust begins to settle, Lennox and Moruga find themselves drawn towards the center of the octagon. A hush descends upon the crowd, their collective breath suspended in anticipation, as Mike Dempsey steps forward to announce the official decision.]
MIKE DEMPSEY: “Ladies and gentlemen, referee Jordan Ripley has called for a stop in this fight at three minutes thirty-nine seconds in the third round, declaring your winner by knockout, AAAAAND STIIIIILL the undisputed Union Grand Prix Bantamweight Champion of the World, Redd “The Feisty Cheetoh” Lennox!”
[The arena erupts, the applause deafening as Redd Lennox is officially announced as the defending champion, her victory celebrated with the title being ceremoniously wrapped around her waist. A surge of adrenaline courses through her veins, her eyes sparkling with the glory of her achievement. Meanwhile, a wave of respect washes over both combatants, their hands clasping in a solemn and dignified handshake before embarking on diverging paths.]
[While the screen lights up with a graphic, displaying the intricate statistics of the thrilling bout, the commentators seize the opportunity to paint a vivid picture, capturing the essence of the battle that unfolded before their very eyes.]
Winner: Redd Lennox by KO (Haymaker) at 3:39 Round 3
Statistics: Redd Lennox
Punches 88/109 (81%)
Kicks 0/0 (0%)
Clinch strikes 0/0 (0%)
Takedowns 1/1 (100%)
GnP strikes 3/5 (60%)
Submissions 0/0 (0%)
Clinch Attempts 0/0 (0%)
Time on the ground 101 s
Statistics: Magdalena Moruga
Punches 25/50 (50%)
Kicks 5/17 (29%)
Clinch strikes 1/2 (50%)
Takedowns 0/0 (0%)
GnP strikes 0/0 (0%)
Submissions 0/0 (0%)
Clinch Attempts 0/0 (0%)
Time on the ground 109 s
[In the center of it all, under the bright lights, stood the victorious Redd Lennox. With unrivaled swiftness, Bodie Sullivan traversed the cage, his presence adding an extra layer of excitement. Bodie Sullivan closed in, his microphone poised to capture every word, from the defending champion.]
BODIE SULLIVAN:“Ladies and gentlemen, I’m here with the winner AND STILL Bantamweight Champion, Redd Lennox, who just delivered another breathtaking performance tonight. Redd, you did it once again, retaining your title with an emphatic knockout in the third round. How are you feeling right now?”
[Lennox smiles confidently before answering.]
REDD LENNOX:“Thank you, Bodie. I feel incredible! This one was different, taking on a new opponent on such short notice. It’s a testament to my hard work and the support of my team and fans. Tonight, I showed everyone why I’m the queen of this division.”
BODIE SULLIVAN: “Speaking of Magdalena, she’s known for her relentless fighting spirit. She came forward, swinging for the fences, but you seemed to have an answer for everything she threw at you. Having fought her once before already, was that something you were able to prepare for in the short amount of time you were given?”
REDD LENNOX: “Mags has so much heart, I respect her for that. She’s always going to be a game opponent. I expected her to come forward with everything she had, and yeah I was prepared for it. I knew I had to be methodical, stay calm, and pick my shots. In the end, her aggression played right into my hands. It’s all about strategy, Bodie.”
BODIE SULLIVAN: “And now, let’s talk about your ongoing rivalry with CC Flynn, which seems to add another chapter after what transpired over the weekend. You’ve made it clear that you still want that fight. What are your thoughts on her pulling out, and what does this mean for your future?”
[A flicker of intensity ignites in Redd’s eyes.]
REDD LENNOX: “Supa just keeps losing credibility day by day. She wants to be this tough girl, but she’s all talk and no action. She bullies people, talks about people’s families, but when it’s time to step into the cage, she’s nowhere to be found. That’s how me and my camp feel about it. She knew she couldn’t last against me, so she saved herself an embarrassment. Tonight, she lost like five stripes on her badge, Bodie. Supa Scary? Not anymore.”
BODIE SULLIVAN: “Well, regardless of what happened, you proved once again why you’re the champion. Now, looking forward, what’s next for Redd Lennox? Any potential challengers you have your eyes on?”
REDD LENNOX: “I still want to fight Supa next, but if she doesn’t want to face me, that’s her choice. I’m not going to waste my time waiting around. I have all the opportunities in the world. There are plenty of hungry contenders out there who want a shot at this title. So, whoever steps up, I’ll be ready. I’m just glad to be standing here tonight, still holding this belt and earning this win.”
BODIE SULLIVAN: “Well, Redd, you’ve once again proven your incredible skills and determination to continue to add wrinkles to your game. Congratulations on your victory and thank you for an incredible performance tonight. The world is eagerly awaiting your next move.”
REDD LENNOX: “Thank you, Bodie. And thank you to all my fans who continue to support me on this journey. This is only the beginning. I’m going to keep pushing, keep evolving, and keep showing the world why I’m the best in the world. Redd Lennox, Bantamweight Champion. Remember the name!”
[With a gleaming smile, a wave to the crowd, and a handshake with Bodie Sullivan, Redd Lennox left the center of the octagon to go celebrate with her coaches. The camera feed inched backward, revealing an arena pulsing with an animated audience. A wave of camera flashes ignited the arena as the feed slowly faded. The Battleground Network emblem blazed onto the screen, the last graphic to radiate before this night’s stream drew to a close.]