BOSS FIGHT XLV: SAINT-CYR vs MELÉNDEZ II

ROUND ONE: In the first round of this heavyweight opening bout, the tension is high as Ardan Kelly and Omar Makonza step into the cage. They touch gloves, a sign of mutual respect. Both fighters exhibit expert footwork, circling the center of the cage, testing each other’s range. Makonza attempts a liver kick, but Kelly skillfully blocks and counters with a forceful push. The crowd roars in approval. Makonza, eager to engage, closes the distance and secures a single-collar tie, initiating a gritty clinch battle. A knee from Makonza finds its mark on Kelly’s ribs, but the resilient Irishman manages to break free, showcasing his defensive prowess. The action picks up as Makonza launches a thunderous low kick, threatening to cripple Kelly’s leg. Makonza follows up with a heavy straight right hand, but Kelly ducks under, dodging the traffic. Kelly retaliates with a barrage of leg kicks, visibly troubling Makonza. Makonza tries to equalize the situation, delivering a brutal left hand, but it’s once again avoided by Kelly’s slick head movement. As the round progresses, Kelly attempts a takedown and successfully grounds Makonza in a closed guard. He maintains control, denying Makonza any attempts to escape. The referee, Bruno Alves, sees a lull in the action and decides to stand the fighters up, drawing cheers from the crowd eager for more action on their feet. Makonza and Kelly exchange punches in a thrilling display of striking prowess. Kelly turns the tide in his favor as he lands a spectacular combo, leaving Makonza momentarily stunned and on the backs of his heels. With the final horn, the first round comes to a close, leaving fans on the edge of their seats, craving more of this thrilling showdown.

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

ROUND TWO: In the second round of this battle of behemoths, the action explodes with a wild exchange of punches, with Makonza gaining the upper hand, landing some powerful blows. Makonza utilizes his jab to measure Kelly, but the seasoned fighter remains unfazed. Makonza then attempts a furious low kick, but Kelly expertly checks it. Kelly seizes an opportunity as Makonza momentarily loses his footing, launching a flurry of solid jabs and crosses. Makonza tries to retaliate with a looping right hand, but Kelly side-steps and counters with another relentless barrage of strikes, leaving Makonza staggered. Makonza, in a desperate situation, launches a high kick, but Kelly manages to roll with it. It’s enough for Kelly to slow his tempo down, allowing Makonza to engage in a brief clinch. Kelly manages to escape from Makonza’s grasp with slick maneuvering and creating some distance as he circles back to the center of the octagon. Kelly then showcases his ground game with a slick sweep takedown, landing in closed guard over Makonza. On the ground, Kelly maintains control in closed guard, refusing to stall the action. Makonza attempts to roll, but Kelly uses his leg to secure his position. Kelly then seizes the moment, transitioning to half guard, where he times Makonza perfectly, locking up a guillotine choke. Makonza struggles, but the pressure becomes unbearable, and he taps out, saving himself from slipping into unconsciousness.

Winner: Ardan Kelly by Submission (Guillotine) at 3:44 Round 2

Statistics: Ardan Kelly
Punches 19/29 (66%)
Kicks 3/3 (100%)
Clinch strikes 0/0 (0%)
Takedowns 2/2 (100%)
GnP strikes 0/0 (0%)
Submissions 1/1 (100%)
Clinch Attempts 0/0 (0%)
Time on the ground 140 s

Statistics: Omar Makonza
Punches 3/20 (15%)
Kicks 1/12 (8%)
Clinch strikes 1/1 (100%)
Takedowns 0/0 (0%)
GnP strikes 0/0 (0%)
Submissions 0/0 (0%)
Clinch Attempts 0/1 (0%)
Time on the ground 140 s

Isaac Cohen’s Opinion: Ardan Kelly continues to fly under the radar, quietly amassing an impressive winning streak that has now extended to four victories in a row. With each bout, his growth as a fighter becomes increasingly evident, as he exudes an aura of confidence and comfort within the octagon. One of the most remarkable aspects of Kelly’s journey has been his transition from the 225-pound Cruiserweight Division to his current home in the Heavyweight Class. Instead of bulking up recklessly, he has undertaken a carefully calculated and health-conscious approach to gaining size and strength. This has not only improved his overall performance but also established him as a true contender. While Ardan Kelly may still be 2-3 wins away from securing a shot at the coveted Heavyweight Title, it’s important to remember that the world of MMA is filled with unpredictable twists and turns. Should he petition for a top ranked opponent next and secure a fifth win in as many fights, he could be thrusted on the short list, depending on how impressive his next performance will be.

ROUND ONE: The referee in charge, Colin Davenport, steps back, and Venus Sagapolutele and Da’Vion Woodard come charging out of their corners as the bell rings, setting the tone for this Middleweight tilt! Woodard tries to corner Venus with a barrage of punches, but she dances around, evading trouble with graceful precision. Woodard attempts to dig into her body with some hooks, but Venus defends them well. Then, out of nowhere, Woodard throws a wild, unorthodox punch at Venus’ torso, and she responds with a powerful kick, just narrowly missing Woodard. The crowd roars as they exchange blows, but Venus stays rock solid in her defense. Woodard unleashes a bone-shattering right hand, only to see it deflected. Venus then sees the opening, landing a series of jabs and crosses, leaving Woodard staggered. These two warriors trade blows relentlessly, but Venus remains impenetrable, blocking punches with grace. Woodard tries a takedown, but Venus slips away. Woodard attempts one last hail of punches, but Venus defends like an uncrowned champ. As the horn sounds, Woodard retreats, and the referee steps in to separate these fierce fighters.

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

ROUND TWO: Both fighters unleashed sheer chaos inside the cage to ramp back up in the second round! Da’Vion Woodard initiated with a one-two combo, but Venus Sagapolutele blocked it effortlessly. Woodard’s clumsy follow-up opened the door for Venus, who answered with a powerful unorthodox punch to Woodard’s torso, sending a shockwave through the arena. The two engaged in a wild exchange, with Venus landing crisp punches. Woodard attempted a looping right hand, but Venus’ quick reflexes left him staggered. She capitalized, bombarding him with a flurry of jabs and crosses. Woodard found a chink in Venus’ armor, launching a hook, but she skillfully evaded it. He tried a one-two combo, yet Venus’ defense remained unbreachable. Despite Woodard’s attempts, Venus’ counterpunches landed with precision. They continued their furious exchange, with Venus gaining the upper hand. Woodard attempted to cool the pace down, but Venus stayed aggressive. The round ended with a flurry of punches, with Venus dominating the exchange.

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

ROUND THREE: In the intense third and final round, Sagapolutele and Woodard continued their thrilling battle. Venus led with a punch, but Woodard dodged, missing his counter. Woodard then showcased a brilliant combination, but Venus displayed even more incredible dodging skills, slipping from the punches. Woodard launched a body hook, but Venus side-stepped, hunting for a counterattack. They engaged in a brief punching exchange, with Venus having the upper hand. In a surprise move, Woodard attempted to bring the fight to the ground, but Venus held her ground, forcing Woodard to pull guard. Woodard threw heavy punches from the closed guard, testing Venus’ defenses, but she blocked them expertly. Venus got back to her feet, and the referee intervened, standing Woodard up as well. As the action resumed, Venus launched a kick, which Woodard checked, maintaining distance. Woodard took a moment to catch his breath before attempting a series of jabs and an uppercut, but Venus was just as elusive now as she was in the first round. A brief grappling exchange ensued, with Venus now attempting a takedown, but Woodard displayed excellent balance to stay upright. They went back to the well and traded punches, with Venus landing a few solid blows. Woodard attempted a Superman punch, but Venus dodged skillfully. They continued to trade stinging punches, with Venus maintaining the upper hand. As the round concluded, both fighters were tested, but Venus Sagapolutele showcased superior defensive skills and striking accuracy. The crowd erupted as the horn sounded, marking the end of a fast-paced fifteen minutes.

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

JUDGES’ SCORECARDS
Venus Sagapolutele  10 10 10: 30
Da’Vion Woodard  9 9 9: 27

Venus Sagapolutele  10 10 10: 30
Da’Vion Woodard  9 9 9: 27

Venus Sagapolutele  10 10 10: 30
Da’Vion Woodard  9 9 9: 27

Winner: Venus Sagapolutele by Unanimous Decision

Statistics: Venus Sagapolutele
Punches 43/59 (73%)
Kicks 1/2 (50%)
Clinch strikes 0/0 (0%)
Takedowns 0/1 (0%)
GnP strikes 5/5 (100%)
Submissions 0/0 (0%)
Clinch Attempts 0/0 (0%)
Time on the ground 39 s

Statistics: Da’Vion Woodard
Punches 20/87 (23%)
Kicks 0/0 (0%)
Clinch strikes 0/0 (0%)
Takedowns 0/3 (0%)
GnP strikes 2/13 (15%)
Submissions 0/0 (0%)
Clinch Attempts 0/0 (0%)
Time on the ground 39 s

Isaac Cohen’s Opinion: A monumental victory was secured by Venus Sagapolutele tonight, and it couldn’t have come at a more critical juncture in her journey. This win marks the beginning of a solid two-fight winning streak, a respectable turnaround from the harrowing ordeal of a three-fight losing streak she had endured. Sagapolutele’s path has been a tumultuous roller coaster, but tonight’s victory signifies a resurgence of her potential. As she continues to relentlessly hone her skills and sharpen her arsenal, the MMA world eagerly watches her evolution. However, the crystal ball remains murky when it comes to predicting what lies in store for this prospect. With each bout, she continually refines her techniques, making it a tantalizing challenge for even the most seasoned analysts to forecast her future trajectory. One thing is certain, though; this hard-earned win tonight is more than just a tick in the “W” column. It’s a shot of adrenaline to her confidence, a reminder of the sheer tenacity that resides within her, and a payoff to the relentless hours of sweat and sacrifice she pours into her craft.

ROUND ONE: Archie Driscoll steps in as the referee, and the crowd is on their feet as this Bantamweight showdown begins. Ronnie Banks and Ammar Elamin waste no time as they quickly close the distance. Banks fires off a blistering low kick, but Elamin is ready, catching the leg with precision. Elamin, ever the tactician, goes for a single-leg takedown, and Banks finds herself tumbling to the canvas. In the blink of an eye, Elamin secures open guard over Banks, pressing her against the fence. He’s relentless, attempting to advance his position. Banks struggles, but Elamin manages to get into half guard. Banks tries to regain control, shifting to full guard, but Elamin isn’t having it. He maintains his half guard, looking to exploit any opening. Elamin seizes an opportunity, attempting to pass Banks’ guard, and succeeds, transitioning to side mount. Banks, though tough as nails, can’t find an escape. The crowd roars as Elamin improves his position by securing the full mount. Banks desperately tries to regain control, but Elamin is relentless, forcing her down. Elamin unleashes a barrage of punches to Banks’ body. She attempts to stand, but Elamin shuts her down, dominating the ground game. With ruthless precision, Elamin rains down a lethal concoction of hammer fists and elbows on Banks’ face, leaving a gruesome laceration on her forehead. The crowd holds its breath as the referee warns Banks to defend herself. In the nick of time, Driscoll steps in, saving Banks from further punishment. In a pool of blood, Ronnie Banks is left battered, and Ammar Elamin celebrates a dominant first round stoppage.

Winner: Ammar Elamin by TKO (GnP) at 2:12 Round 1

Statistics: Ammar Elamin
Punches 0/0 (0%)
Kicks 0/0 (0%)
Clinch strikes 0/0 (0%)
Takedowns 1/1 (100%)
GnP strikes 12/12 (100%)
Submissions 0/0 (0%)
Clinch Attempts 0/0 (0%)
Time on the ground 104 s

Statistics: Ronnie Banks
Punches 0/0 (0%)
Kicks 0/1 (0%)
Clinch strikes 0/0 (0%)
Takedowns 0/0 (0%)
GnP strikes 0/0 (0%)
Submissions 0/0 (0%)
Clinch Attempts 0/0 (0%)
Time on the ground 104 s

Isaac Cohen’s Opinion: Ammar Elamin stormed into that cage with venom coursing through his veins, and as soon as the opening bell rang, he unleashed fury onto Ronnie Banks. It was a spectacular performance that marked his return to form, securing his first finish since inking that life-changing contract with Union GP. With this resounding win, Ammar has now tallied up three consecutive wins, showcasing a driven resurgence in his career. But let’s rewind for a moment to truly appreciate the journey Ammar Elamin has endured. Prior to this win streak, he faced a daunting two-fight losing skid, a turbulent period that tested his mettle and resilience to the core. The first loss came against the illustrious Lauren Moore, the inaugural Bantamweight Champion. Moore’s prowess in the cage was nothing short of remarkable, and their bout proved to be a true clash. Ammar may have fallen short that night, but he walked away with newfound knowledge and an unquenchable hunger for redemption. Next in line was Dallas Meechan, another all-time decorated Bantamweight Champion. Elamin fought valiantly but ultimately suffered a second decision loss in a row that further fueled his determination to return to the top. Fast forward to the present, and Elamin’s resurgence is nothing short of a phoenix rising from the ashes. His three consecutive wins have cemented his status as a serious contender in the ultra-competitive Bantamweight Division. Iron sharpens iron, and the lessons learned from his clashes with Moore and Meechan have proven to be invaluable to his future ascent. 

ROUND ONE: The opening round of this Co-Main Event clash kicked off with a bang as Mauro Santos de Lima and Joseph Byrne locked eyes and touched gloves. These two warriors wasted no time in sizing each other up, circling the cage like hungry predators. Byrne showed he meant business with a thunderous right hand that found its mark on Santos de Lima’s dome, leaving fans on the edge of their seats. But Santos de Lima wasn’t backing down, responding with a barrage of punches that had Byrne staggering back on his heels. The crowd roared in approval as Byrne fought to stay on his feet. The action didn’t stop there, these modern gladiators unleashed their full arsenal of strikes, kicks, and hooks, creating fireworks inside the octagon. Santos de Lima attempted a takedown, but Byrne showcased his great timing and balance and sprawled back to stay upright. Both fighters showcased their striking prowess as they engaged in a wild exchange, swinging for the fences but often missing their marks. As the fight progressed, there was a mix of scrambles on the ground, takedown attempts, and striking exchanges that didn’t sway the momentum too much in either direction. Santos de Lima managed to drag the fight back to the ground, where he could sense Byrne’s gas tank starting to run dry. In a wild scrambling sequence, Santos de Lima hunted for submissions, particularly targeting an Americana several times, but Byrne fought tooth and nail, refusing to be trapped. Santos de Lima went for broke with an Anaconda Choke that left Byrne completely helpless, gasping for air. The lights dimmed as Byrne’s vision faded and his body went limp, and he succumbed to the relentless Brazilian’s deadly grip. Santos de Lima’s relentless submission prowess prevailed once again! The crowd erupted with energetic cheers, creating another spectacular highlight finish for the former Everest MMA Cruiserweight Champion.

Winner: Mauro Santos de Lima by Submission (Anaconda Choke) at 3:49 Round 1

Statistics: Mauro Santos de Lima
Punches 6/10 (60%)
Kicks 0/0 (0%)
Clinch strikes 0/0 (0%)
Takedowns 3/4 (75%)
GnP strikes 0/0 (0%)
Submissions 5/5 (100%)
Clinch Attempts 0/0 (0%)
Time on the ground 98 s

Statistics: Joseph Byrne
Punches 5/6 (83%)
Kicks 0/1 (0%)
Clinch strikes 0/0 (0%)
Takedowns 0/0 (0%)
GnP strikes 0/4 (0%)
Submissions 0/0 (0%)
Clinch Attempts 0/0 (0%)
Time on the ground 98 s

Isaac Cohen’s Opinion: Well, folks, we got treated to a sight we’ve been eagerly awaiting — Mauro Santos de Lima showcased a surprising glimpse of his stand-up offense! It might not have been a full-blown striking clinic, but it served as the perfect means to navigate the treacherous waters of the octagon, allowing him to seamlessly transition into his bread and butter: those textbook takedowns that have become his trademark. Inevitably, this strategic approach led to yet another lightning-fast first-round victory with a breathtaking submission. With this latest win, Santos de Lima continues his meteoric rise and now boasts an unblemished record of 13-0. It’s no question he’s a force to be reckoned with as he’s yet to encounter an opponent that has truly tested him. This win over a former Title Challenger will send shockwaves through the division. Mauro Santos de Lima isn’t just knocking on the door for a title shot; he’s kicking it down! It’s hard to argue against him being next in line for a shot at the championship belt.

ROUND ONE: In the marquee bout, referee Dusty Whittaker signals the start, and Lovelie Saint-Cyr and José Meléndez stay true to form and waste no time closing the distance. They circle the cage, measuring each other’s range. Saint-Cyr fires off an uppercut that connects with authority, and a lightning-fast low kick follows, producing a satisfying pop. A body kick from Saint-Cyr is thwarted by Meléndez’s defense, but a vicious shovel hook finds its mark. These fighters lock eyes in the center, exchanging menacing left hooks. Saint-Cyr’s high kick misses, causing him to slip to the canvas momentarily. Saint-Cyr is up in a flash, refusing to stay down. Meléndez seizes the moment with a rib-cracking hook to the body. Both fighters trade punches in the center, swinging for the fences, with the air unfortunately bearing the brunt of their onslaught. Saint-Cyr focuses on punishing Meléndez’s legs with devastating low kicks, thwarting any attempt at getting inside. Meléndez attempts to capitalize on Saint-Cyr’s lapse in form, landing a solid body shot. Lovelie Saint-Cyr retaliates with a bone-shattering straight right. As the round concludes, Saint-Cyr unleashes an unorthodox punch that finds its target. Both fighters show no signs of backing down, with Meléndez taunting Saint-Cyr to stand his ground. The horn signals the end of a tense round filled with action, drama, and a heavy dose of swagger.

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

ROUND TWO: In the second round, Lovelie Saint-Cyr comes out swinging, aiming to cut off Meléndez’s swift footwork. Meléndez takes a few punches, and a small cut appears on his nose, a testament to the intensity of the bout. A right hand from Meléndez is deflected, but he follows up with a crisp uppercut and a hard jab. Saint-Cyr responds with a counter punch, and a low kick that misses its target. Meléndez tries to press the advantage with a punch, but Saint-Cyr slips away and counters with an uppercut, bruising Meléndez’s right cheek. Saint-Cyr unleashes an unorthodox punch that goes wide, and Meléndez dodges a hook to the body. Saint-Cyr launches a furious low kick, but Meléndez checks it effectively. Both fighters exchange punches, with Saint-Cyr finding openings in Meléndez’s defense. Saint-Cyr displays excellent movement, attacking and retreating skillfully. Another low kick from Saint-Cyr lands, and Meléndez grazes Saint-Cyr’s chin with a left hook. Then comes the thunderous moment – a bone-shattering straight right hand from Saint-Cyr leaves Meléndez reeling and potentially nursing a massive headache. Saint-Cyr continues his low kick assault, targeting Meléndez’s left leg, but Meléndez blocks a few. The fighters continue their exchange. Saint-Cyr attempts a kick, but Meléndez counters with a hook. Both fighters land significant punches, showcasing their striking skills. In the closing moments of the round, Saint-Cyr tries a liver kick, but Meléndez blocks it and pushes him away. The round ends with Saint-Cyr relentlessly throwing punches and Meléndez defending.

Isaac Cohen’s Scorecard (Unofficial): 10-9 Saint-Cyr (20-18 Saint-Cyr)

ROUND THREE: In the third round, the action doesn’t let up as José Meléndez starts with some crisp punches, but Lovelie Saint-Cyr expertly defends, showcasing his blocking skills. Meléndez attempts to make his move, but Saint-Cyr counters with a bone-shattering straight left hand that leaves Meléndez wobbly. Saint-Cyr retaliates with a solid low kick that undoubtedly inflicts pain, but Meléndez answers back with a brutal combination that has Saint-Cyr’s legs looking shaky. Meléndez targets Saint-Cyr’s ribs with punishing hooks, and Saint-Cyr attempts to throw jabs that Meléndez counters effectively. A lightning-fast low kick from Meléndez creates a resounding pop, and Saint-Cyr seems to hyper-extend his leg in response. Saint-Cyr counters with another solid low kick, but Meléndez deflects it and goes for a body shot, which Saint-Cyr blocks just in time. Saint-Cyr aims a middle kick that barely misses, and Meléndez seizes the opportunity to blast him with a powerful right hand, causing Saint-Cyr to slip to the ground. While Saint-Cyr is on the canvas, Meléndez lands a kick to his thigh, producing a loud pop. Saint-Cyr attempts to rise, but Meléndez’s moves keep him grounded. Eventually, Meléndez steps back and allows Saint-Cyr to regain his footing. Back on their feet, Saint-Cyr exhibits some footwork and evades Meléndez’s punches. The fighters engage in a wild exchange, but both seem to be off the mark. Saint-Cyr then fakes a punch and tries a liver kick, but Meléndez blocks and counters. Meléndez moves aside and launches a furious low kick, delivering a hard blow to Saint-Cyr’s thigh. Saint-Cyr responds with nice punches, causing Meléndez to stagger. Sensing an opportunity, Saint-Cyr launches bombs, but Meléndez connects with a few punches of his own. The action heats up with a kick from Saint-Cyr, but Meléndez counters with a hook. However, a brief pause occurs as Saint-Cyr appears to have been poked in the eye. Referee Dusty Whittaker intervenes, giving Saint-Cyr time to recover. The round resumes with both fighters standing. Meléndez lands some nice shots, and Saint-Cyr tries a shovel hook that doesn’t find its mark. They continue to exchange, with Meléndez checking a furious low kick from Saint-Cyr. The round concludes with the fighters giving it their all, ready to head into main event rounds.

Isaac Cohen’s Scorecard (Unofficial): 10-9 Meléndez (29-28 Saint-Cyr)

ROUND FOUR: The intensity refuses to relent to kickoff the fourth round. Each time Meléndez attempts to close the distance, Saint-Cyr responds with a low kick, but they keep missing their mark. Saint-Cyr tries a solid leg kick, which Meléndez expertly checks. Then, seizing an opportunity, Meléndez counters with a chest-thudding jab. Saint-Cyr attempts a middle kick, but it narrowly misses. The two fighters engage in a wild exchange of punches, with both seemingly unable to find their target as fatigue begins to set in. Suddenly, Meléndez unleashes a crushing straight left hand that sends Saint-Cyr reeling. Meléndez follows it up with a looping left hand that lands square on Saint-Cyr’s chin, momentarily freezing him in his tracks. Then, Meléndez goes for a furious low kick that crashes into Saint-Cyr’s right leg, inflicting some intense pain. Saint-Cyr tries to counter with a hook, but it falls short. Meléndez, on the other hand, delivers a brutal combination that leaves Saint-Cyr’s legs wobbly. Saint-Cyr attempts a jab, but whiffs, and Meléndez lands some tentative punches, coming out ahead in the exchange. As Saint-Cyr goes for a looping right hand, Meléndez jumps back and lands a quick jab. Sensing Saint-Cyr’s vulnerability, Meléndez capitalizes with a flurry of jabs and crosses, causing Saint-Cyr to stagger. Meléndez goes for another low kick, wrenching Saint-Cyr’s knee this time. Saint-Cyr tries to respond with a combo, but Meléndez deftly ducks and counters with a straight that catches Saint-Cyr off guard. The two fighters continue their wild exchange, with Meléndez getting the edge. Saint-Cyr, showing signs of fatigue, sustains a small cut on the bridge of his nose and a swollen chin. Meléndez moves aside and delivers another low kick, further tormenting Saint-Cyr’s thigh. Saint-Cyr attempts a hook to the body, but Meléndez side-steps and counters effectively. Saint-Cyr swings with no success, and Meléndez grazes his forehead with a high kick, leaving a small cut. They engage in yet another furious exchange, with Meléndez landing more solid blows. Saint-Cyr fires off low kicks that fail to land, and Meléndez seizes the moment with a well-executed one-two combination. The result is devastating — Saint-Cyr hits the canvas hard, unconscious, courtesy of a crushing blow from José Meléndez! What a dramatic come-from-behind finish in this Middleweight Main Event!

Winner: José Meléndez by KO (Punches) at 4:21 Round 4

Statistics: Lovelie Saint-Cyr
Punches 47/82 (57%)
Kicks 6/32 (19%)
Clinch strikes 0/2 (0%)
Takedowns 0/0 (0%)
GnP strikes 0/0 (0%)
Submissions 0/0 (0%)
Clinch Attempts 0/0 (0%)
Time on the ground 43 s

Statistics: José Meléndez
Punches 60/85 (71%)
Kicks 9/13 (69%)
Clinch strikes 1/1 (100%)
Takedowns 0/0 (0%)
GnP strikes 0/0 (0%)
Submissions 0/0 (0%)
Clinch Attempts 0/0 (0%)
Time on the ground 0 s

Isaac Cohen’s Opinion: This fight delivered precisely the kind of thrilling showdown fans had been eagerly anticipating. It was an intense, high-octane clash, characterized by a relentless exchange of strikes, where the fighters threw caution to the wind. LSC appeared to be in full control, dominating the early rounds, but everything took a dramatic turn when Meléndez pulled off a stunning knockdown in the third. It was a moment that visibly shifted the momentum, leaving LSC reeling for the remainder of that round and spilling over into the fourth. As the fourth round unfolded, Meléndez seemed to find his rhythm and was just teeing off on the former 185 pound Champ with some well-timed counters that had the former 185-pound Champ on the ropes. The crowd was on the edge of their seats as Meléndez showcased his striking prowess, leaving us all wondering what this victory meant for the division’s top contenders. Outside of the upcoming showdown between Derrius Webb and Eagle Mondalvi, the landscape of the division just got a whole lot more intriguing. With Meléndez’s victory over LSC, their all-time series now stands at a deadlock, one apiece. However, it’s worth noting that Meléndez carries a loss to Reggie James. James, in turn, recently lost to LSC in his last outing, evening their all-time series at one win each. But here’s the kicker – James holds a victory over Meléndez from their bout before LSC entered the equation. So, trying to make sense of these intricate matchups is going to be a daunting task for the matchmaking team. The MMA math involved here is bound to boggle some minds as they attempt to create compelling matchups for these fighters. It’s a puzzle that will undoubtedly have the fans and pundits debating and speculating for weeks to come.

Venue: Heritage Bank Center
Location: Cincinnati, Ohio
Attendance: 13,255
Date: September 10, 2023
Fighter Payouts: $3,190,000
Gate: $1,657,000

FIGHT OF THE NIGHT
Lovelie Saint-Cyr vs José Meléndez

PERFORMANCE OF THE NIGHT
Ammar Elamin, Mauro Santos de Lima

DISCLOSED EARNINGS
Lovelie Saint-Cyr ($1,000,000)
José Meléndez ($650,000)
Ardan Kelly ($395,000)
Mauro Santos de Lima ($350,000)
Joseph Byrne ($350,000)
Ammar Elamin ($170,000)
Venus Sagapolutele ($95,000)
Ronnie Banks ($60,000)
Da’Vion Woodard ($60,000)
Omar Makonza ($60,000)

QUICK RECAP
Ardan Kelly def. Omar Makonza by Submission (Guillotine) at 3:44 Round 2
Venus Sagapolutele def. Da’Vion Woodard by Unanimous Decision (30-27 x3)
Ammar Elamin def. Ronnie Banks by TKO (GnP) at 2:12 Round 1
Mauro Santos de Lima def. Joseph Byrne by Submission (Anaconda Choke) at 3:49 Round 1
José Meléndez def. Lovelie Saint-Cyr by KO (Punches) at 4:21 Round 4